#the scout guide hunt country

[styllwaters]

KNIGHT ETHNIC GROUPS, ORDERS AND CULTURES: A GUIDE

MAP OF ETTERA (Knight Homeplanet)

Standard map [continents shown]

Regional map [territories shown]

✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

I have here a weeks worth of writing and art because I for some reason enjoy torturing myself! I've been slaving away at this for so long but it's finally done and polished. So! As promised, I'm gonna talk a bit about the different Knight cultures/ethnicities, territories and general social structure.

Knights are one of my alien sophont civilisations from my Vivere 44 headworld. Here are more links from my previous posts:

Introductory post

Knight deities

Knight languages and names

With that being said, worldbuilding textwalls below the cut!

____

First, an explanation of the maps.

CONTINENTS

There are three main continents on Ettera. The two polar landmasses are Thannoeh in the northern end and Nahrui in the southern end. Thannoeh is divided by east and west, and is home to the two major Polar Knight nations. Nahrui is not occupied by any, aside from explorers or scientists. For many Knights, it is a strange, enigmatic land and a topic of great curiosity. In the middle is Val-srat; the central continent inhabited by Mountain and Plains Knights. The landmass is named as such because it is often represented in folklore as a Knight, with Valazear (the ‘Host’) being the southern Plains territories and Srati (the ‘Helmet’) being the northern Mountain territories. The Ihmna Stretch is the section of land connecting the two countries - ‘Ihmna’ is the Ferhahti word for the Integrator organ which joins the host and helmet’s consciousness.

Plant life on Ettera takes on hues of red and orange.

____

Before I get into the different ethnicities, I should elaborate more on how Knight Orders are structured and the different titles; some of the clothing articles are specific to status.

SOCIAL STRUCTURE

Most Knights live in groups called ‘Orders’, which I talked more about in this ask.

The standard roles for an Order are as follows:

Commander - Makes decisions, protects and supports the group. Commanders lead the Order across difficult terrain, plan out hunts, and take care of their members. A Commander might be chosen based on generational succession, experience, or strength. Depending on the rules of the Order, a Commander might be challenged by a Knight who desires their position, although only an elite or lieutenant would be permitted to do this. In more traditional and conservative orders Commanders are always Pike-forts.

Lieutenant - Second in command. The Lieutenant is the Commander’s primary advisor and runs the Order when they are unable to. A Commander may train their lieutenant to one day take their place as leader, or a lieutenant might serve multiple generations of Commanders without ever challenging them.

Elites - A selection of Knight soldiers who are exceptionally experienced, strong and fast. Highly respected by the rest of the Order and carry out important duties such as organisation. They have the highest chance of being the next lieutenant or Commander. 

Soldiers - The main body of the Order, fully grown Knights who are proficient in all the skills necessary for survival. Soldiers are tasked with a variety of jobs to keep the Order healthy and running: they are also farmers, medics, entertainers, strategists, builders, etc. 

Scouts - Scouts are Knights who make reconnaissance trips for the Order. Their job is to gather information about a potential area to settle or travel through. Scouts also have a range of other responsibilities, such as acting as lookouts, messengers, and taking care of Pages.

There are two types of Scouts - temporary and permanent. Temporary scouts are Squires (16-17 years) who have completed their training and are performing Expeditions, which they are required to do before becoming a full soldier. On Expeditions two or three Scouts will travel a certain distance away from the Order, sometimes miles away, to deliver goods to other Orders or to simply evaluate an area/route. Permanent scouts are lower-ranked Knights who are unable to become Soldiers, prefer a caretaker role, or have been relegated to the position.

Squires - Knights in training. Squires learn from a Soldier assigned to teach them. They may be tutored one-on-one, or taught in a group. They learn the ways of the Order and the world around them. Squires will often be assigned small hunting trips with their tutor, or cleaning jobs. Typically aged 7-15 years.

Pages - The youth of the Order, Knights aged 0-6 years. The pages are fiercely protected by every member of the Order. A newborn Helmet or Host will stay with their birth parent/s until they have assimilated, in which care duty is passed on to a permanent Scout. The Scout raises the Pages alongside several others until they are ready to become Squires.

This structure originated from Mountain Orders and spread to Plains and Polar regions a long time ago. Of course, not every Order follows this plan exactly, and there are countless variations. Some Knights don't live in Orders at all, and may live in pairs (which is common for travelling merchants and explorers) or small groups. Very rarely, a Knight may travel alone. This is the case for exiles.

____

You may already be familiar with the Mountain, Plains and Polar Knight regional varieties, but within these subspecies are various ethnic groups.

THE ETHNICITIES

✦ MOUNTAIN ✦

✦ Ferhahti [Ferhaht]

The Ferhahti Knights are an ethnic group located in the Ferhaht territory of Srati. Their thick fur is of various shades of grey and grey-blue. Their clothing styles are typically beige and tan, often complete with rectangular tassels and red accents. The Ferhahti have a ‘New Years’ festival called Khulaam in which they call upon Etteran spirits to bless them with good harvests, hunting and rain. During these festivals there is music, food, dancing and socialising with others. Allied Orders, usually 2-5, will come together to celebrate. Celebrations last five days. Alliances may be temporary or long-lasting, but the Orders will go on a hunt on the final day to bring down a large quarry. Oftentimes there will be a ‘Herald’ dancer who bears a flag on their horn, depicting glyphs of good fortune. 

Since the Ferhahti and Kaata territories are neighbouring, and have no physical borders, Orders from both lands will often meet to trade goods and information. Many Plains-Mountain hybrids are of Ferhahti and Kaata descent due to the close proximity of the nations. 

NOTE: Plains and Mountain Knights are capable of producing hybrid offspring, although they will be infertile. Neither Plains nor Mountain Knights can produce viable hybrids with Polar Knights.

✦ Fejga [Fejg]

Fejga Knights (pronounced Fej-ya) make their home in the Fejg archipelago. They are generally of a bulkier physique than other Mountain Knights, have a coat of thick fur and are well adjusted to chillier climates. They also sport a ‘saddle’ marking on their backs and are likely to have mottled/freckled patterns and blue eyes. Their Orders are partially seafaring, with many sailing from island to island in magnificent ships. Fishing is a large part of their lifestyles as the sea provides a stable source of food. 

Their clothes are frequently made from leather and wool from domesticated animals. It is deceptively thin, as their pelts already provide natural insulation from the cold. Fejga Commanders wear three silver piercings on their Helmets.

✦ Svunacht [Svun]

Svunacht Knights live within the mountain-bordered territory of Svun and the island of Naahek. Orders have a special ceremony for choosing their Commander. The next in line, usually a chosen Host and Helmet born of the previous Commander and their partner, must journey across the Asall mountain range which borders Svun. It is a treacherous, long passage, and requires the Knight to wear a mask to block out the searing winds. They must also wear a spiked collar as a traditional accessory and safety measure to deter larger predators which roam the mountains. They are forbidden from carrying firearms, only armed with a knife, their wits, and natural defences. Ceremonial garments are required, passed down through generations, and three slips of fabric are worn on their horn for good luck: representing strength, wisdom and tenacity. The journey, called the Meha, is the final step in a long series of rigorous training for future successors. 

The painting of Helmets is also a large part of Svunacht culture. It is typically only reserved for Commanders, Lieutenants or Elites. 

★ PLAINS ★

★ Kaata [Kaat]

Kaata Knight Orders inhabit the deserts of Kaat. They are perfectly suited to desert life, their tan coats reducing heat absorbed from the sun. Kaata Knights make their clothing from woven fibres of plants that are garnished with gold pigments derived from a natural mineral found in the sands. They are especially known for their proficiency in fine crafts, and often trade jewellery to Ferhahti Orders across the Ihmna Stretch connecting Kaat and Ferhaht. Kaata clothing tends to be highly detailed and ornamental, with shiny beads adorning arm cuffs, necklaces, mandible rings and horn sleeves. The many gemstone and fossil deposits in Kaat are also incorporated into their styles. Like the Svunacht Knights, Kaata also paint their Helmets, although the practice is not restricted to any particular titles.

★ Saisala [Saisal]

Saisala Knights live in and around the deltas and rivers of Saisal, the southernmost territory of Val-srat. The area is filled with marshlands and everglades, and the weather is more wet and humid than the dry plains of Kaat. Saisala forts sport a dark reddish mane that grows right down their backs and bears some resemblance to maned wolves. Their pikes have hooked horns and sloping spines, as well as more ‘splotchy’ red stripes. Their Helmet eyes also have a pale ring around their pupils.

Saisala clothing styles are characterised by draping, ovular shapes and translucent sections of fabric. The green and gold drapes in the drawing are traditional wedding garments, complete with rounded tassels and a horn extension for pikes. The hanging ‘coins’ have engravings which tell a short but sweet poem.

★ Yaemioui [Yaemiou]

Yaemioui Orders live in a similar environment to Saisala Knights, in the wetland territories of Yaemiou. Their coats are pale like Kaata, but come in a greater combination of hues such as orange, grey and vermilion. Fun fact: all Plains Host pups are born with faint spots to help them camouflage, like lion cubs. Most lose these markings as they grow older, but Yaemioui hosts retain them even in adulthood. Their patterns are similar to painted dogs. The Yaemioui have a rich storytelling culture and have records dating back thousands of years.

Their clothing styles utilise dusky, non-bright colours that are usually two-piece. The outfit in the picture is worn by an elder Pike-fort who has carried and sired many offspring. The spine extensions are an indicator of age and experience, and a mark of high respect. The scarf around their neck depicts circles symbolising their Helmet children, and the circles on the larger cloth represent their Host progeny. 

★ Balkzaiinu [Balkzaii]

On the island of Balkzaii reside the Balkzaiinu Knights, who have dark stripes on both their Hosts and Helmets and short curly fur. Unlike other Orders, Balkzaiinu communities rarely ever hunt - they were one of the first countries to develop farming and agriculture, and import a lot of domesticated animals to Saisal and Yaemiou. They are also the only country that has no Commanders in their Orders, and decisions are made by a council of higher-ups. They live in a tropical climate which receives lots of rainfall and cyclones. They are also masters in boat making and sailing, and contacted the mainland several centuries ago. Balkzaiinu have different decency standards than other Plains Knights, and in their culture it is considered proper to cover the neck area. Their clothing is generally layered and contains colourful, square designs.

✧ POLAR ✧

✧ Aikka [Ehtte Thannoeh]

Aikka Knights have domain over the Eastern section of Thannoeh. The polar word for East is Ehtte, and West Uesse. Since the country is so close to the Fegj archipelago, the two have been in contact for a long time.

Aikka have pristine white fur and a slightly bluish tinge to their Helmets. As with all Polar Knights, they are much smaller than their Plains or Mountain relatives, but are incredibly tough and hardy as a result of surviving in one of the harshest biomes. Ehtte Thannoeh is associated with scientific prowess, discovery and knowledge, and many famous Knight explorers are from Thannoeh. There are several research stations on Nahrui that are run and managed by Aikka; they have no difficulty working in the icy environment. Aikka Knights are also experts in carving, sculpting figurines and charms from the ivory tusks of marine animals. The outfit depicted in the drawing shows an Aikka Scout wearing a pendant with a carved basilosaurus-like animal for spiritual protection. These pendants are often given by parents to children. Their coat has six pockets for navigational instruments, goggles, knives, a spyglass, medical equipment and more. 

✧ Myet [Uesse Thannoeh]

Myet Orders have less contact with other regions than Aikka. Residing in Uesse Thannoeh, Many of them live further inland. Myet Hosts have a more yellowish tinge to their fur and their Pike Helmets have a tan stripe. The Helmets also have a more rounded 'snout'. They have managed to domesticate a large predator which defends their camps and is used as a mount/companion. Like the Balkzaiinu, Myet Orders have a different structure than most, having two Commanders, usually a mated pair, and no lieutenants or elites.

Myet clothing is more minimal than Aikka styles. They usually cover the back with a ‘saddle’ and manipulators with gloves. The outfit drawn is of a Commander, distinguished by the ring of fabric around their horn and eye makeup. In their backpack they carry hunting weapons, and wear a knife sheathed at their side.

_________________

And that's a wrap! Thank you for reading, this project is truly a delight to work on. I leave you with some messy concept art I did a while ago for Mountain Knight clothing styles.

[isa-ah]

shiloh! he’s a breeder who’s favorite commissions are shinies, but he breeds for competitive stats too. occasionally he runs into fun genetic mutations, like two shiny zorua tumbling out of the same egg, but one looks a bit… odd. ofc he kept them!

shiny buneary and absol were his two firsts- happy accidents in the wild, several years apart! ponyta was bred and carries eggs close to her hot body, and sentret was hunted wild and evolved, now serving as his mount.

he makes good money so he’s all name brand baby. uncropped size comparisons below!

furret is huge and mischievous so there rlly isn't anything Shiloh can do to keep it out of trouble LOL

absol was very much an accident; Shiloh and his buneary had wandered too far into the mountains and absol helped to guide them away from danger. seeing another strangely colored pokemon like itself, it followed them home and Shiloh was all too pleased to keep it. he doesn't battle, so it was entirely absols choice to stay.

ponyta has egg holsters bc she's wayyyy too energetic to have to just sit around for her flame body to help with hatching eggs..! she's a space heater on the go. Shiloh has some decent land out in the country to breed on so she's got a pretty big field to roam.

lopunny. 😳 she's like a scout, keeping Shiloh's land patrolled and safe for the baby pokemon and eggs everywhere. she's the only one of his pokemon that battles, and she does it autonomously; he isn't much of a trainer lol they're partners! buneary was his first pokemon. he came across it and was so surprised and intrigued by her coat that he came back often until he had eventually befriended her.

the zorua twins are for fun. to call him a hisuian zorua might be an overstatement; I think of it like a genetic mutation that calls back to the fur texture of his ancestors? I don't know if his typing is actually different; his palette is just like normal zoruas! I figure if all you do all day is breed pokemon, then eventually you're going to run into mutations besides just shiny palettes, and they're his trophies when they happen!!!

[docholligay]

Genuinely just contributed to the Harris-Walz campaign because it enters you for a chance to meet them, and, as jetty has observed, Tim Walz is the dad I always wanted.

He hunts (his opener of 'I can shoot pheasants better than JD' had me from the first moment), he owns an International Scout (one of my three dream cars), he is a country boy who is into education and thinking and trying opinions on. I haven't wanted someone to be my dad so bad since I met that farmer in Circle (pop 600) with a poetry degree.

Actually, it's funny-- in the us at least, a fair amount of politicking is about **relatability** and on the national level, I do not relate to these people. I, too, thought Hillary was an upper crust seven sisters snob who couldn't repair a goddamn leaking pipe. I just also thought Donnie couldn't repair the pipe neither, and was a cunt besides. Every time I volunteered for Obama's campaigns i was well aware that someone with such education and clean Midwestern news announcer diction would probably assume things about me from my less clean voice. I just... do not care. Because I am a pragmatist. I can not feel like a special girl sometimes. It's good.

but my wife and I were talking that on a federal level...Walz is the first person either of us has felt like a guy we might know. I would get a beer with him!

This is a shitty endorsement--policy, and not just voiced policy, but what they have voted for in past, should be your guiding star-- and I guess that's because it's not meant to be! But it's the first time I've seen the dems bring out a rural dem... of which I know a number, who doesn't disavow that link.

[gremreviews]

Movie Reviews

Poltergeist (4.2/5)

The Muppets from Space (3/5)

The Secret Garden (3.5/5)

Annabelle Comes Home (3.6/5)

The Hitman's Bodyguard (1.8/5)

Sabrina the Teenage Witch ('96)(4/5)

Adventures at the Chocolate Factory (2/5)

The Mummy (4/5)

Envy (3.6/5)

Meth Gator (3.8/5)

Not Easily Broken (2/5)

The Illusionist (4.2/5)

10 Cloverfield Lane (3.8/5)

2:22 (3.8/5)

A Babysitters Guide to Monster Hunting (3.3/5)

A Quiet Place Day 1 (3.8/5)

Afflicted (3.7/5)

Agent Revelation (2.8/5)

Allied (3.7/5)

Alone (1.8/5)

American Hangman (3.9/5)

An American Haunting (2.5/5)

Annabelle (2.1/5)

Annabelle Creation (4.2/5)

Annihilation (3.6/5)

Apartment 7A (4.1/5)

Arrival (2/5)

Ashby (4/5)

Ashoka (3.7/5)

Avarice (3.8/5)

Bad Santa (3.2/5)

Barbarella (2/5)

Barbie (2.9/5)

Baywatch ('17) (3/5)

Beastly (4/5)

Bedknobs and Broomsticks (3.6/5)

The Big Short (1.3/5)

The Bigfoot Trap (4.3/5)

Bitch Ass (2.8/5)

The Blair Witch Project (3.7/5)

Blair Witch 2 (3.5/5)

Blurt (4.2/5)

Boston Strangler (3/5)

The Boy Who Cried Werewolf (4.2/5)

Boyhood (3.5/5)

Breathe (4/5)

Cadaver (2.4/5)

Cadillac Man (2.9/5)

Captive State (3.7/5)

Case 39 (3.3/5)

Cargo (4/5)

Case 39 (3.3/5)

Casper (3.2/5)

Cloverfield (3.5/5)

Clue the movie (4/5)

Coming to America (3.7/5)

Confess, Fletch (4.2/5)

Crawlspace (3.5/5)

Critical Condition (2.6/5)

Cursed Friends (2.9/5)

Dangerous Game: The Legacy Murders (4.1/5)

Deck the Halls (3.7/5)

Deliver Us From Evil (3.9/5)

Diehard (3/5)

Dinner for Schmucks (4/5)

Disappearance at Clifton Hill (3/5)

Disaster Artist (3/5)

Disaster Movie (4/5)

Doctor Sleep (4.3/5)

Dog Day Afternoon (3.8/5)

Don’t Tell Mom The baby Sitters Dead (3.8/5)

Dotty and Soul (2.7/5)

Double Jeopardy (3.7/5)

Downsizing (2.9/5)

Drag Me to Hell (4/5)

Dungeons and Dragons Honour Among Thieves (4.2/5)

Edge of Darkness (3.9/5)

End of Watch (1.2/5)

Ernest Saves Christmas (4/5)

The Estate (2.9/5)

Event Horizon (1.8/5)

Every Breath You Take (3.9/5)

Face off (4/5)

Faster (3.7/5)

Fear of Rain (3.8/5)

Fear Street 1994 Part 1 (4.2/5)

Fear Street 1976 Part 2 (3.2/5)

Fear Street 1776 Part 3 (3.7/5)

Fear the Night (4.4/5)

Follow Her (3.4/5)

Four Brothers (3.9/5)

Free Guy (3.8/5)

Friday the 13th (3.7/5)

Galaxy Quest (1.8/5)

The Generals Daughter (3.6/5)

The Giver (4.3/5)

Givers of Death (3.2/5)

The Good Son (3.8/5)

Grease Live! (4.4/5)

The Grudge (3.5/5)

Halloween: 20 Years Later (3.9/5)

Happiness for Beginners (3.7/5)

The Hateful Eight (3.6/5)

Haunt (3.7/5)

Heat (3.4/5)

Heist (3.5/5)

Heist 88 (3.6/5)

Hell or Highwater (3.2/5)

Hellraiser (-2/5)

Home Front (4.2/5)

The Host (4.2/5)

Hot Rod (2.9/5)

How High (2.4/5)

I See You (3.7/5)

Identity (3.8/5)

IF (3.6/5)

In and Out (3.7/5)

The Inhabitant (3/5)

Inheritance (3.1/5)

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1.3/5)

Jack Reacher (3.5/5)

Jacob's Ladder (1999)(4.2/5)

Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2.8/5)

Jingle all the Way (3.8/5)

Jules (3.8/5)

Keeping Company (2.7/5)

La Llorona (4/5)

Last Vegas (3.5/5)

The Last Voyage of the Dementor (3.9/5)

The Lesson (2.9/5)

Love and Monsters (3.3/5)

MA (4/5)

Magnolia (2/5)

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (1/5)

Mercy (3.6/5)

Mindhunters (3/5)

Miracle on 34th Street ( '47) (3.9/5)

Miracle on 34th Street ('94) (3.9/5)

Moon Manor (3/5)

Morning Glory (3.8/5)

Mother! (3.4/5)

Mousehunt (4.4/5)

The Muppets Treasure Island (3.7/5)

No Country for Old Men (3.8/5)

No Exit (3.3/5)

Out of Office (4/5)

Out of The Furnace (2.3/5)

Paranormal Activity Next of Kin (4/5)

Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (3.5/5)

Past Lives (4/5)

Pixie (3.3/5)

Phil (3.9/5)

Predator (4.1/5)

Predator 2 (2.8/5)

Primal Fear (3.9/5)

Project Ithaca (2.6/5)

Rags (4/5)

The Ring (2.4/5)

Robotapocalypse (4/5)

Room 203 (2.2/5)

Rosemary's Baby (1968) (2.5/5)

Run With the Hunted (2.6/5)

Sahara (1.9/5)

Saving Christmas (1.8/5)

School for Schondrels (3.9/5)

Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse (4.3/5)

Scrooged (3/5)

Season of the Witch (3.4/5)

Secret in their Eyes (2.8/5)

Shooter (3.7/5)

Showing Up (2.6/5)

Significant Other (2.8/5)

Sleepwalker (4.6/5)

Smile (4.1/5)

Snipes (4.3/5)

Sonic the Hedgehog (4.5/5)

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (4.3/5)

SOS (Survive or Sacrifice) (3.3/5)

Spell (4/5)

Spiderhead (1.7/5)

Spontaneous (3.9/5)

Staying Alive (2/5)

Steel Magnolias (2/5)

Still Waiting (3.7/5)

Suburban Gothic (3.8/5)

Super 8 (3.9/5)

Swindle (4.1/5)

The Talented Mr. Ripley (4.1/5)

Talk to Me (4.2/5)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ('90) (3.8/5)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II Secret of the Ooze ('91) (4/5)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III ('93) (3/5)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2007) (4.5/5)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2014)(4/5)

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (3.2/5)

Texas Rangers (2.8/5)

The Cave (4/5)

The Dragon Slayer (3.5/5)

The Ghost and the Darkness (2.2/5)

The Good Witch (4/5)

The Good Witch's Garden (4/5)

The Good Witch's Family (4/5)

The Good Witch's Charm (4/5)

The Good Witch's Destiny (4/5)

The Island (4.1/5)

The Loved Ones (3.7/5)

The Painter (3.8/5)

The Strangers Chapter One (3.8/5)

The Strays (3/5)

The Untouchables (2.9/5)

The Way Way Back (3.5/5)

Thieves (4.2/5)

This Is Where I Leave You (2.7/5)

Three Months (3.2/5)

Thunder Force (2/5)

Tommy Boy (3.2/5)

Tone-Deaf (4/5)

Tramps (2.4/5)

Triple 9 (2.4/5)

Tucker and Dale Vs Evil (3.3/5)

Underwater (2.9/5)

The Uninvited (2.7/5)

Urban Cowboy (1.7/5)

Us (4/5)

Vacancy (3.4/5)

Vanilla Sky (4/5)

Venom (4.1/5)

V/H/S (3.5/5)

Vindicta (3.9/5)

Waiting (3.8/5)

War of the Worlds (1953) (1.4/5)

War of the Worlds (2005)(4/5)

Watcher (3/5)

The Weather Man (2.2/5)

White Guys Cant Jump (4/5)

Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey (4.3/5)

The Wrath of Becky (4.3/5)

Wonderful Time of Year (2.8/5)

World War Z (3.7/5)

X ('22) (1.2/5)

You Are Not My Mother (3.1/5)

Young Adult (3.5/5)

Zodiac (3.8/5)

Zoolander (3.8/5)

Zoolander 2 (2.9/5)

[stocky2016]

“Jacobs ladder” is a man-made stone staircase from the valley bottom in Edale up to Kinder Scout plateau at 636 metres, and is about half a mile of steep stepped pathway., it is largely due to its tough expectation that this description of “strenuous” is the “warning” the guidebook gives to unwary hikers, Jacob, in case you were wondering, was 18th Century farmer responsible for its construction.

The other interest in this walk was it was the location for the famous Trespass demonstration in 1932,

https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/learning-about/news/70-years-of-the-peak-district-national-park/the-mass-trespass#what

This protest led to the formation of the “National-Park concept” which gave public access to all the lovely country side which privileged landowners had exclusively enjoyed for horse-riding and hunting.

“Jacobs Ladder”

Climbing Jacob's Ladder, nothing seems to matter,
the higher you ascend, life begins to transcend,

The views and heights astound, spectacular on this ground,

whilst climbing Jacob's Ladder, to a chorus of avian sounds.

On Kinder Scout plateau, you bravely take a few strides

past the trig point and rocks, and take in the sights,

This is a long but worthwhile “walk the talk”

and the Kinder Scout experience will make your muscles taut.

Wind-eroded, rock sculptures, are strewn almost everywhere

we renamed a number, those with identities more spectacular.

“Other-worldly” the guide book defines them but to us they assumed

animal pseudonyms ranging from the polite to the vernacular.

From panoramic views of Edale, what photos you can take?

they’re quite awe-inspiring pictures from this elevation,

it's hard to take it all in, with the stunning valley below

the view from the plateau , a spectacular sensation.

Exploring the glorious Derbyshire Dark-Peak horizon

a land of mystical tales and well kept secrets
This stunning landscape of variety was unique with its
rocky mountains and dales, the beauty of propriety.

Exploring the Peak District, you can't help but feel free.

High above the Edale Valley, the early cuckoo calling from below

Progressing across the plateau this is no easy feat

high above the Valley Floor, a labyrinth of decisions to follow.

G.P.S. 18th May 2023

(Pictures self owned)

[venatorco]

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Hunting Trip

Hunting trips have been a part of the human experience for millennia. From procuring food to fostering a connection with nature, the reasons to embark on a hunting adventure are as diverse as the landscapes hunters explore. If you're considering hunting trips New Zealandwide, but don't know where to start, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to plan a successful and unforgettable experience.

Types of Hunting Trips

Before diving into logistics, it's important to decide what kind of hunting trip you envision. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

Big Game Hunting: This involves pursuing large animals like deer, elk, moose, or bears. Often set in breathtaking wilderness areas, big game hunts demand physical fitness, patience, and knowledge of tracking and hunting techniques.

Small Game Hunting: Targeting smaller animals like rabbits, squirrels, or waterfowl offers a different challenge. Many small game hunts can be done closer to home, making them ideal for beginners or those seeking a shorter adventure.

Varmit Hunting: This focuses on controlling populations of animals considered pests, such as coyotes or prairie dogs. Varmit hunting often emphasises marksmanship skills and can be a great way to hone your shooting abilities.

Bird Hunting: Whether pursuing ducks, geese, turkeys, or pheasants, bird hunting is a unique experience that often involves trained hunting dogs. Patience, quick reflexes, and camouflage techniques are key to success.

Planning and Preparation

Once you've chosen your target species, meticulous planning is essential. Here are some crucial steps:

Licensing and Regulations: Every state and country has its own big game hunting regulations and licensing requirements. Familiarise yourself with the specific laws for your chosen location and species well in advance. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses to avoid legal trouble.

Research the Area: Research the hunting grounds you plan to visit. Understand the terrain, weather conditions, and animal behavior in that specific area. Consider factors like public or private land access, available resources like camping facilities, and local hunting guides.

Gear Selection: Choose appropriate hunting equipment for the terrain, weather, and target species. Invest in quality clothing that provides camouflage and protection from the elements. Don't forget essential items like a reliable firearm, ammunition, a sturdy backpack, a first-aid kit, and a sharp knife.

Sharpening Your Skills

Marksmanship: Ensure your hunting trips in New Zealand shooting skills are up to par. Practice regularly at a shooting range to develop accuracy and confidence with your chosen firearm.

Scouting and Tracking: Learn how to identify animal tracks, signs, and habitat preferences. Understanding animal behavior will significantly improve your chances of success. Consider taking a scouting or tracking course for beginners.

Physical Fitness: Hunting often involves challenging hikes through rugged terrain. Prepare yourself physically by building endurance and strength well before your trip.

Ethical Considerations

Hunting is a responsibility that demands respect for wildlife and the environment. Here are some key principles of ethical hunting:

Sustainability: Always hunt within legal limits and quotas to ensure the sustainability of wildlife populations.

Fair Chase: Only pursue animals that have a fair chance of escape. Techniques like spotlighting or using bait on big game are unethical.

Respecting the Kill: Always strive for a clean and humane shot. Wasting meat or leaving an animal to suffer is disrespectful.

The Hunting Experience

Beyond the thrill of the chase, big game hunting trips offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The camaraderie shared among hunting companions, the quiet solitude of the wilderness, and the satisfaction of harvesting wild game are all aspects that contribute to an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

A successful hunting trips in New Zealand requires planning, preparation, and a deep respect for nature. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, embarking on this adventure can be a rewarding journey. Remember, hunting is more than just harvesting an animal; it's about connecting with the natural world, fostering self-reliance, and appreciating the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

[therealoffer]

Finding Wholesale Real Estate Deals: Navigating the Path to Opportunity

Introduction:

Within the dynamic realm of real estate investment, the art of wholesale deal finding is a treasure hunt that unearths hidden gems of opportunity. The journey to discovering potential wholesale properties is akin to navigating uncharted territories, where strategic maneuvers and innovative approaches lead to valuable acquisitions ripe for profitable endeavors so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). This comprehensive guide serves as your compass, unveiling an array of diverse strategies that empower you to source and identify these hidden treasures within the wholesale real estate market. Prepare to embark on a journey that transforms your investment pursuits into a quest for prosperity. In the multifaceted world of real estate, where opportunities are as varied as the landscapes they inhabit, the process of finding wholesale properties demands a deliberate and systematic approach so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). The landscape is replete with properties waiting to be discovered — properties that possess untapped potential for profit and growth. As you step into this realm, you’ll uncover a tapestry of strategies, each designed to open new doors to opportunities.

The realm of wholesale real estate deals is one of vast possibilities, with each strategy offering a unique avenue for potential discovery so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). By tapping into online platforms, you’ll navigate the digital landscape to uncover digital troves of properties. Leveraging local networking, you’ll forge connections that pave the way to off-market opportunities. Exploring off-market properties reveals hidden gems while scouting distressed neighborhoods unveils diamonds in the rough. These strategies form the compass points that guide your journey, each leading you to distinct landscapes of opportunity so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). The essence of wholesale deal discovery lies not only in recognizing the properties that are visible but also in unveiling the potential that remains unseen. It’s about peeling back layers to reveal the true value and hidden opportunities that lie within each property. This guide delves deep into the heart of each strategy, providing insights and tools that enable you to uncover these opportunities, even when they may be obscured so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). In today’s interconnected world, the digital realm is a treasure trove of wholesale real estate opportunities waiting to be unearthed. Online platforms and databases hold the keys to properties that span cities, states, and even countries. The savvy investor can navigate this virtual landscape to pinpoint promising properties. From auction websites offering distressed assets to real estate marketplaces showcasing off-market gems, your screen becomes a window into a world of potential so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). This guide equips you with the skills to sift through listings, analyze property data, and identify the diamonds in the digital rough. As you venture into this realm, remember that strategic online exploration is not just about scrolling through listings, but about deciphering trends, understanding local markets, and ultimately securing properties that hold hidden value so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). In the age of technology, the power of personal connections remains unparalleled. Networking within your local real estate community opens doors to off-market opportunities that often elude the general market’s gaze. Real estate investment clubs, industry events, and community gatherings become platforms for sharing insights, forming partnerships, and unearthing properties before they hit the open market. This guide sheds light on the art of relationship-building and the strategies to nurture connections with real estate agents, fellow investors, and industry insiders. Through genuine relationships, you’ll gain access to a pipeline of properties that might otherwise remain hidden from view. Visit us for more information :- cash buyer in phoenix

1.Tapping into Online Platforms:

The digital age has revolutionized the way real estate is discovered. Online platforms are treasure troves of potential wholesale properties, waiting to be unearthed so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

1.1. Exploring Listing Websites:

Real estate listing websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin showcase a plethora of properties. Filter your searches to uncover distressed properties, motivated sellers, or those listed below market value so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

1.2 Mining Social Media Networks:

Social media platforms, especially Facebook and LinkedIn groups, offer valuable networking opportunities so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Join local real estate groups where investors and wholesalers share leads, insights, and potential deals.

1.3 Scouring Auction Sites:

Online auction platforms like Auction.com and Hubzu feature distressed properties up for bidding so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). These platforms provide a chance to snag properties at prices lower than their market value.

2. Leveraging Local Networking:

Building connections within your local real estate community can be a potent strategy for discovering wholesale properties so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

2.1 Attending Real Estate Meetups:

Local real estate meetups and networking events provide opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Engaging in discussions can lead to potential deals and partnerships.

2.2 Partnering with Real Estate Agents:

Establish relationships with real estate agents who specialize in distressed properties so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Real estate agents frequently have access to exclusive off-market deals and can serve as a valuable source of leads.

2.3 Collaborating with Wholesalers:

Networking with other wholesalers can open doors to co-wholesaling opportunities or sharing leads on potential deals that may not align with their portfolio so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Visit us for more information :- cash home buyers phoenix

3. Exploring Off-Market Opportunities:

Off-market properties often hold hidden gems that can yield significant profits for astute investors and wholesalers so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

3.1 Direct Mail Campaigns:

Craft targeted direct mail campaigns to reach distressed property owners who may not have listed their properties yet. Personalized messages can pique their interest so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

3.2 Driving for Dollars:

Physically exploring neighborhoods can help you identify distressed properties that show signs of neglect so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Contact the owners directly to explore potential wholesale opportunities.

3.3 Networking with Probate Attorneys:

Probate properties are often prime candidates for wholesale deals so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Establish connections with probate attorneys who can introduce you to heirs looking to sell inherited properties.

4. Scouting Distressed Neighborhoods:

Distressed neighborhoods can offer a treasure trove of potential wholesale properties with substantial profit potential so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

4.1 Identifying Signs of Distress:

Learn to recognize signs of distressed properties, such as overgrown yards, boarded-up windows, and neglected exteriors. These indicators can lead you to potential deals so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

4.2 Engaging with Property Owners:

Approach property owners in distressed neighborhoods with empathy and understanding so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa). Express your interest in helping them with their property challenges, which can open doors for potential wholesale transactions.

4.3 Building Relationships with Local Contractors:

Local contractors often work in distressed neighborhoods and have insights into properties that might be ripe for wholesale deals. Establishing relationships with them can provide valuable leads so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

Through the strategic implementation of these diverse approaches, you’ll navigate the landscape of wholesale real estate deals with finesse. By tapping into online platforms, leveraging local networking, exploring off-market opportunities, and scouting distressed neighborhoods, you’ll uncover properties brimming with potential for profit and success so that houses can be sold safely for good cash (sell my house for cash mesa).

[tsghuntcountryvirginia]

Check out this article on The Scout Guide Hunt Country featured business Wild Roots Apothecary! 

WILD ROOTS APOTHECARY 4 River Lane Sperryville, VA C: hello@wildrootsapothecary.com Follow on Instagram: @wildroots_apothecary

[helenascorpse]

TF2 MERCS AS YOUTUBERS 😰

SCOUT: has a gaming/ like a unus annus style channel. Frequently gets all of the others to participate. long running joke about how jerma and him are long lost brothers. does a few speedpaints and tutorial videos from time to time and of course baseball videos. has his own gfuel flavor 😔 calls his subs his “boyz (gender neutral)”

SNIPER: foraging, hunting and survival videos. “Surviving 3 months in the australian outback” “How to use every part of a moose” “how to preserve animal bones” has a ton of thirsty af fans bc he frequently is seen without a shirt in his survival videos and due to his deep voice 😳🫣 has gotten lots of request to do asmr, always says he will do one at 4 million subscribers (currently at 3.8 million 😰) also revealed the fact he can play the sax on a medic livestream and everyone was SHOOK. calls his subscribers “roos”

SOLDIER: educational channel about various wars and general military stuff. also does mre tasting videos and raccoon care taking videos. frequently appears in scouts videos bc this man loves doing dumb shit. one of his videos blew up and the conservatives started flooding in but he immediately was like “FUCK OFF YOU UNAMERICAN ASSHOLES”subscribers are called “cadets”

ENGIE: obviously he does stuff about engineering but also does videos about grilling and southern cuisine. very popular due to his high quality editing, personality and lovely voice. running joke for his channel is people calling him any variation of dad, he prides himself on it because he often gets emails and comments from people telling him about how he is the father figure people wanted growing up. first time he got a comment like that he cried 😭 also does TheBackyardScientist type videos when Scout appears on his channel. also does videos with demo sometimes. does restoration videos also. AND GUITAR AND VOCAL COVERS OF OLD COUNTRY SONGS 😭😭 calls his subscribers his “darlings”

MEDIC: does similar videos to Ask A Mortician. also dove care and has videos on different medical procedures from around the world and from different time periods. also has basic first aid videos on his channel. calls his subscribers “meine kleine tauben” has random little german lessons in his videos sometimes. had his beloved sometimes help him with videos and he became a fan favorite bc… ough lorge hubby with deep voice and medic talked him into making his own channel. plays his violin on livestreams sometimes (engie, demo and sniper sometimes play with him)

HEAVY: reads classic russian and latin on his channel and does teaching videos about the languages he knows and about chess. very vibey and videos you can fall asleep to easily. also tells stories about his family sometimes. does gun care videos too. calls his subscribers his “медвежата” also gets called a dad by people 😭

DEMOMAN: does videos about cryptids and how to hunt them 😰 also does videos about the occult, on how to make your own alcohol (with the help of engie), piano and bagpipe videos also videos on what its like living life with only one eye. subs are called “lads” 🏃🏻

PYRO: gameplay videos / guides. Minecraft and other games like that are a staple on their channel. Do unboxing videos on different subscription boxes containing cute items. also do videos about mental and physical health (specifically concerning burn victims) always provide subtitles as soon as the videos come out so everyone can enjoy and understand them. also… plush restoration and doll customization videos… subscribers are called “matches” or “lil sparks” and are very protective of pyro

SPY: does film reviews and video essays on like topics that only a niche group of people appreciate. also does very high quality and realistic sfx makeup plus makeup reviews and rant videos about shitty brands. also due to his vast knowledge on languages and different cultures he dies a lot of videos on that plus videos on wine and suits cuz hes a fancy bitch. (and no heidi im sorry but imagining spy as the nostalgia critic makes me want to scream so he is going to be NORMAL)

[thescoutguide]

EDITOR PICKS: HUNT COUNTRY, VA | How do you make the most of a visit to Hunt Country, Virginia? According to @TSGHuntCountry editor Nelina Loiselle, “The best way to see Hunt Country is by horseback, but a car will do! Plan a road trip down winding country roads past vineyards, horse farms, and grand historic estates—many of which, like @theblackhorseinn, are idyllic wedding venues. Only an hour from D.C., you can come for a day or week. Be sure to book a room and dinner @glengordonmanorva or @thebluedoorkitchen. In spring, enjoy a day at the races watching horses speed over jumps with the blue ridge as a backdrop. Summer is ideal for a visit to @greenhillwinery followed by a picnic while you take in a polo match nearby. Fall brings the @middleburgfilmfest, art tours, leaf-peeping, and a bounty of local food to our tables @thewholeox, and nowhere is more festive for the holidays than Hunt Country. You’ll love shopping at our local boutiques, like @ashbymaeboutique, @augustgeorges_, @terri_pakravan, @baileywyckantiques, @chloesofmiddleburg, @domestic_aspirations, @elizabeth_locke_jewels, @naturecomposed, @southerly_house, @thefoxpheasant, @tricountyfeeds, and @trystgallery so much it will become tradition. While many of the places I mentioned aren’t welcoming in-person visitors at the moment, now is the time to plan your trip.” Find more ways to connect with Nelina and @TSGHuntCountry here: https://thescoutguide.com/hunt-country-va/editors/

| Photo: @victoriaheerphotography

[meatandbones24]

My Favourite Movies (in order)

Scott Pilgrim vs The World

Monty Python & The Holy Grail

The Thing

The Truman Show

Whiplash

The World’s End

Spirited Away

American Psycho

The Shawshank Redemption

Superbad

The Indiana Jones Quadrilogy (1/2,3,4)

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

The Dark Knight Trilogy (2, 3/1)

The House That Jack Built

Donnie Darko

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Howl’s Moving Castle

What We Do In The Shadows

Turbo Kid

Kung Fury

UHF

Equilibrium

Ghostbusters I & II

Napoleon Dynamite

Beetlejuice

Big Trouble In Little China

Spiderhead

Fight Club

π (1998)

The Princess Bride

Akira

Interface

Jacob’s Ladder

Oppenheimer

The Back to The Future Trilogy (1,2,3)

Bo Burnham: Inside & The Outtakes

Django: Unchained

What About Bob?

Renfield

Everything, Everywhere, All At Once

Project X

Bullet Train

Perfect Blue

Hunt for the Wilderpeople

Knives Out (1,2)

The Batman

Spiderman: Into The Spider-Verse

Hardcore Henry

Dick Figures: The Movie

Johnny Mnemonic

Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy

Conspiracy Theory

Barbie

The Mitchells Vs. The Machines

Nightcrawler

Deadpool (1 & 2)

Hot Fuzz

Shaun of The Dead

There Will Be Blood

Black Christmas

Taxi Driver

Stranger Than Fiction

Knock At The Cabin

Watchmen

Palm Springs

Falling Down

Groundhog Day

The Crucible

Fargo

The Final Girls

Megamind

Monster House

Coraline

Edward Scissorhands

Joker

Rango

The Goonies

Hot Rod

Army of Darkness

Hush

Daniel Isn’t Real

Battle Royale

They Cloned Tyrone

The Whale

Under The Silver Lake

Corner Office

V/H/S/99

Scooby Doo (1 & 2)

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Austin Powers (1, 3, 2)

Redline

MFKZ

Society

Rocky Horror Picture Show

The Suicide Squad

Birds of Prey

Flushed Away

The Road to El Dorado

Sinbad: Legend of The Seven Seas

The Cable Guy

Catch Me If You Can

Over The Hedge

Lilo & Stitch

Nope

The Other Guys

Stand By Me

Juno

Ted 2

The Breakfast Club

Us

Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events

How To Train Your Dragon (1,3,2)

Chronicle

Amsterdam

Up

The Babysitter

Don’t Worry Darling

The Menu

Midsommar

Inkheart

Spaceballs

Slaughterhouse Rulez

Jumanji

Meet The Robinsons

Kronk’s New Groove

The Emperor’s New Groove

Hercules

Dragon Hunters

TMNT

The Lego Movie

Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog

Skinamarink

Fresh

One Hour Photo

Perks of Being a Wallflower

Zathura: A Space Adventure

Paranorman

Push

Dredd

Nerve

Get Out

Zombieland

The Hateful Eight

Jojo Rabbit

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory

Pulp Fiction

Game Night

The Voices

No Country For Old Men

Masterminds

The Fear Street Trilogy (tied)

Cabin In The Woods

Scream

Ace Ventura (1 & 2)

#ALIVE

Die Hard

Memories Of Murder

The Face Of Another

Lord of The Rings Trilogy (1, 3, 2)

The Hitman’s Bodyguard

Paul

A Nightmare on Elm Street

Friday The 13th

Home Alone (1 & 2)

Last Night in Soho

The Matrix Trilogy (1, 2/3)

Lupin III: The First

Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

Blazing Saddles

The Spongebob Squarepants Movie

The Village

Between Two Ferns: The Movie

The 40 Year Old Virgin

Cooties

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

The Babysitter: Killer Queen

Saltburn

They Live

This Is the End

My Neighbour Totoro

Inside (2023)

Pineapple Express

Free Guy

Tick, tick…BOOM!

Se7en

Jaws

Mortal Engines

Liar Liar

Monty Python & The Life of Brian

Looney Tunes: Back In Action

The Three Amigos

Reservoir Dogs

Johnny Dangerously

Goodfellas

Guns Akimbo

Psycho

Love and Monsters

Tucker & Dale vs Evil

Escape From New York

The Boogeyman

House On Haunted Hill

Monsters VS Aliens

Eighth Grade

Speed

Drillbit Taylor

Mystic River

Lake Mungo

The Interview

The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl

Arthur And The Invisibles Trilogy (1/3, 2)

Spy Kids Trilogy (3, 2, 1)

Flight of The Navigator

The Hangover Trilogy (1, 2, 3)

Constantine

A Scanner Darkly

Police Academy

Happy Death Day

Freaks of Nature

Five Nights At Freddy’s

Death At A Funeral (2010)

Enemy

Ted

Ready Player One

30 Minutes or Less

Encino Man

Sky High

The Black Phone

Rocketman

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure

Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey

Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse

Good Time

Undercover Brother

Scanners

We’re All Going To The World’s Fair

Escape From L.A.

The Haunted House

Absolutely Anything

Eternals

Big Fat Liar

Arachnophobia

Lucy

Possessor

Hancock

Repo! A Genetic Opera

The Green Knight

Space Jam

Eraserhead

Barbarian

Mr. Peabody & Sherman

The Dead Don’t Die

Inglorious Basterds

Willy’s Wonderland

Tusk

Game Over, Man!

Get Smart

Promising Young Woman

The Killing of a Sacred Deer

Idiocracy

[samedmunds]

My litany thoughts on 1999 cult classic strategy video game Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri

Alpha Centauri is a game of the early Civilization variety from the EA golden age and ranks very highly in my top ten. While you probably heard of it if you were playing video games around the turn of the century, I've found members of my age cohort to be tragically unfamiliar with this masterpiece.

Alpha Centauri is an unofficial sequel to Civilization II, a game where the only way to way to win is either completely eliminate all competitors to the last city or, rather more easily, send a spaceship loaded with colonists to the title star system. Shortly after leaving home, the ship loses contact with Earth, which would make sense to a player of Civilization II where the bonuses to science and trade from democracies evaporate when technology ends, upon which point all the AIs revolt and become militant fundamentalist theocracies and climate change rapidly destroys the planet, leaving the player with an endgame that is literally 1984. Either way, when the already strained ship arrives at the Alpha Centauri system an unknown partisan assassinates the captain of the UNS Unity and the population fractures into seven opposing factions before firing the colony pods and exploring an inconveniently hostile planet.

The player starts here, in typical Civ fashion: a scout, settler, and absolutely no technology to speak of. That isn't to say you are a bunch of primitives, all your units start out with some approximation to modern guns and judging by the amazing quotes and wonder videos your society is well beyond the 21st century--more on the story later. The gameplay is incredibly well-balanced in spite of its age and quirks (with the exception of the freight-train progression of Yang). Rapid early expansion as the bountiful Peacekeepers may leave you at serious risk to the relentlessly martial Spartans, who are in turn threatened by the uber-specialized technocratic University--but be careful to underestimate the backwards Lord's Believers, their probe teams will just as quickly rob you of your gains. The Morganites can afford to sparsely defend their home if they're willing to pay off their aggressors, but they'll struggle expand over great swaths of territory without irking civil unrest drone riots from corruption. Meanwhile the Gaian Acolytes can harness the permanently-dangerous mindworms to great effect from the beginning of the game. Yang just... builds. And keeps building, and next thing you know he's conquered the Peacekeepers and turned Miriam into nothing more than a puppet and where are all these cruise missiles are coming from?

In short, the strategic design of this game is nothing less than a work of art, but that isn't to say it doesn't have its anachronisms. The User Interface has taken its inspiration from early versions of Microsoft Word and it rapidly pays off to know the hotkeys. The wonder videos are resolution locked and can sometimes cause problems depending on your display configuration. The unit creation system is simultaneously wonderful and horrendous. It allows me to create special long-range nerve gas bombers that eradicate cities shortly before orbitally-dropping specially-trained garrisons to quash all resistance. On the other hand, if you do not accept the cumbersome slew of computer-generated options, keeping your new weapons systems up to date with your latest technology (especially when playing as Zakharov) rapidly becomes a chore.

That said, there are a variety of features in the game that I think deserve to make a reappearance in the Civ Games. The pick-your-government system is incredibly balanced and fun to roleplay. You can't get away with crimes against humanity when solar storms hit in Civilization VI, nor can you weaponise climate change to flood your rivals cities, or strategically terraform to alter weather patterns and deny your neighbors arable land. At the bare minimum, we should be given the option to nerve staple rebelling cities when our control runs out!

All that said, there is also the story to contend with. One is at first tempted to think that a 4x strategy game with a marked emphasis on replayability would necessarily have a tacked-on story, if one at all. After all, the point is for the player to create it through their actions, not have it spoonfed to them. The majority of what you learn about your world that isn't printed in numbers and small pictures on the mapscreen is through blurbs that accompany each discovered technology or new building. The aforementioned wonders even have their adorable early-CG renderings, sometimes mixed in with some experimental film footage. There are occasional interludes that describe the mindworms and machinations of Planet, but the bulk of the wordage comes from epigrams of the faction leaders and the occasional bit of Nietzsche or Plato. It's so good that I can't help but stop and listen to CEO Nbwadibuke Morgan ramble on about supply chain economics or Sister Miriam's apocalyptic warnings every single time. Take some examples.

Proper care and education for our children remains a cornerstone of our entire colonization effort. Children not only shape our future; they determine in many ways our present. Men and women work harder knowing their children are safe and close at hand, and never forget that, with children present, parents will defend their home to the death!

--Col. Corazon Santiago, "Planet: A Survivalist's Guide"

Or perhaps, a more on the nose one:

"The Academician's private residences shall remain off-limits to the Genetic Inspectors. We possess no retroviral capability, we are not researching retroviral engineering, and we shall not allow this Council to violate faction privileges in the name of this ridiculous witch hunt!

--Fedor Petrov, Vice Provost for University Affairs Accompanies the Retroviral Engineering technology

The game often doesn't directly tell you what Retroviral engineering is, nor does it labor to explain just what having someone nerve stapled means, or the precise function of the Recycling Tanks, but through its quotation it beautifully circumlocutes the world you are shaping--and being shaped by. It really never pulls any of its punches, even if its just on Organic Superlube--great stuff--and I still catch muself quoting it regularly.

Ursula LeGuin once wrote

"Science fiction is often described, and even defined, as extrapolative. The science fiction writer is supposed to take a trend or phenomenon of the here-and-now, purify and intensify it for dramatic effect, and extend it into the future. 'If this goes on, this is what will happen.' [...] This may explain why many people who read science fiction describe it as 'escapist,' but when questioned further, admit they do not read it because 'it's so depressing.'"

Alpha Centauri is absolutely extrapolative fiction and very firmly rooted in the 1990s and I love it. It was released in the Aaron Sorkin TV, pre-9/11 days where the word Internet was more often than not followed by the words, "is like an information superhighway" and it absolutely no efforts are made to cover it up. The main factions are a cross-section of the New Millenium's hopes and anxieties. A New Russia that went a very different path before Putin took over, a cheerful clan of ruthless Western capitalists hellbent on putting Morganvision on every network set, a group of vaguely Scottish free-love peaceniks hellbent on defending the most-of-the-time incredibly hostile environment. There's the Second-Amendment preaching Spartans or the optimistically-influential UN which, judging by its naming scheme for its bases, seems to dedicate entire cities to bureaucratic agencies. The All-American Christian fundamentalists don't entirely butt heads with the frighteningly powerful Human-Hive (if your country calls their cities names like "Huddling of the People" and "Paradise Swarming" you might not be the good guys). The expansion also brings in more dynamic characters like the Information Wants to be Free! data angels Brian Reynolds very clearly came up with after watching Swordfish and Hackers back to back or the Nautilus Pirates who have no right to be as fun as they are.

The visions of the future are at once both anachronistic and prophetic; while elements may come off as cheese, I see it as a sort of window to the past, a way to examine what was once (and sometimes still is) on our mind. All in all, I give Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri 4 out of 5 stars and a definite all-time favorite, warts and all. You can pick it and its expansion up for $6 on Gog.com and play it through a built-in emulator that works for most systems. If you're willing to brave a dated interface and an older-fashioned gameplay style, I would definitely recommend it.

[rinzis]

writing about my new genshin oc??? okay?????okay!!!!!! i’m on mobile so i can’t add the read more option i’m so sorry

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details

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name: kiyoharu misa

birthday: august 3rd

sex/pronouns: female, she/her

region: inazuma

constellation: lunam lilia

vision: electro

weapon: sword

rarity: 5*

title: princess of the kiyoharu household, moonlit swordsmaiden (unofficial)

affiliation: kiyoharu clan, the resistance

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synopsis

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the princess of the fallen household kiyoharu. she carries a patterned umbrella which she is seldom seen without, and within which lies her precious katana. a gentle yet influential soul, she is well known for her impressive swordsmanship throughout the resistance in inazuma.

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character story

—

character details

at first glance, people might not think that kiyoharu misa was anything special. seeing a young woman strolling through the land of inazuma carrying an intricate paper umbrella would not faze anyone. but, under this delicate guise, misa conceals both her dear katana and her vision.

the princess of the kiyoharu household is known to be a gentle soul who yearns for freedom from the raiden shogun and the tenryou commission. since her childhood, she has always been fascinated by the moon and its rays, a particular trait of kiyoharu descendants. misa earned herself the title of ‘moonlit swordsmaiden’ after combining her unparalleled swordsmanship with her illuminated vision.

story 1

the kiyoharu clan was once a widely respected and loved clan across inazuma. the household was known for its tendency to produce talented swordsmen who earn themselves visions through selflessness and helping others, and for this reason they were seen as high nobility. however, members of the kiyoharu household were reluctant in hiring many maids or servants - they believe that if one can be capable of harnessing the power gifted by gods through blade alone, one should also be able to cook a simple meal, or wash their own clothing. through this doctrine the kiyoharu descendants earned themselves unwavering respect from all citizens of inazuma, and even the raiden shogun herself - for a while.

story 2

descendants such as misa are taught from a young age to honour their ancestors, but also those who currently serve inazuma as well. misa excelled in swordsmanship, being able to wield a blade so gracefully to the point where it appeared as though she was dancing, using it as simply an accessory. the leader of the clan gifted to her a delicate paper umbrella, and he spoke to her these words: “do not mistake kindness for weakness. from dainty petals drip deadly poisons.”, and with that, misa understood her duty. she would protect the citizens of inazuma with her life, with her dainty umbrella and deadly blade at her side. she is seldom seen without either.

story 3

the kiyoharu clan were known best for the number of descendants who possess visions. thus, when the vision hunt decree was issued, the tenryou commission sought out every member of the household owning a vision. misa’s family would rather have died than hand over their precious visions. despite their unyielding fighting spirit, the kiyoharu household was overcome by the sheer numbers in the tenryo commission. there were supposedly no survivors, but it just so happened that the young kiyoharu misa was dispatched on a mission on behalf of the household the day it fell. the young swordsmaiden returned to her home in ruins, her whole life taken from her. she knew at that moment that as the sole descendant of the kiyoharu household, she would avenge her clan and return lost visions to those who suffer at the hands of the tenryo commission.

story 4

misa met all sorts of people on her journey through inazuma as a vision-bearing fighter, the most notable of all being the ronin kaedehara kazuha. she used to live a life of solitude in a small house near the edge of the islands of inazuma, but this life of solitude was changed upon seeing the rain-soaked samurai appear at her doorstep one evening. seeing each other’s visions, misa realised that kazuha was not a threat at all. the days they spent together inspired misa to venture out, to find the resistance in inazuma alongside the swordsman and reclaim justice for the fallen. and so, she left yet another life behind to travel with kazuha through inazuma in search of everything and nothing at all. nights of listening to the ronin’s musings and conversing under the moonlight unknowingly planted a blossom in misa’s heart, one which would remain there forever.

story 5

misa and kazuha’s travels took them all across inazuma. despite them both being wanted for their visions, the tenryo commission’s lackeys and treasure hoarders were no match for the pair’s skill in bladework. misa secretly yearned day after day for any sign of affection or mutuality from the young samurai, but as the princess of a famed clan she chose to remain composed and calm about the whole ordeal. however, when the ronin told the princess of his plan to leave inazuma with the crux fleet, he explained that he did not want to take this life from her. he confessed that his musings and haikus about the heart and its desires he so often shared with her were about her, and that his own heart would belong eternally to her. thus, he left her with a simple promise. “the wind will bring us together once again, misa. i will return home to you, and then will i forever devote myself to you. this i promise, my princess.”

the kiyoharu sword dance

those who have witnessed kiyoharu misa in battle often note how she appears more to be dancing than harshly fighting. the kiyoharu household drew its strength and style in battle from the moon and its light, and they channeled this into their blades during battle. misa’s god given agility combined with this graceful power leads ultimately to her captivating swordsmanship. with the electro imbued in her blade, misa is all too capable in taking down foes with ease. in the night hours, a stroll down to a clearing or open beach may lead you to find the princess honing her blade under the silver of the moon, with a sword that never sleeps. she is renowned throughout the resistance as one of the most talented swordswomen in inazuma.

the vision

misa was granted her vision during a particularly dangerous incident during her early training years. one fateful evening, she was out with other kiyoharu swordsmen, practicing her skills with her blade in the open country.

“lady misa, please remain here while we briefly survey the area. we have had reports of active treasure hoarders roaming this area, and we would hate for anything to happen to you at this time. we will be back shortly.”

and so, they left her on the path to scout the surrounding land. clutching the hilt of her sword, the very thought of being ambushed by grown men with malicious intentions worried misa, especially since she hadn’t obtained a vision yet. but alas, how wrong her fellow swordsmen were.

“well, what do we have here? the prestigious kiyoharu misa, is it? count ourselves lucky boys, it’s just the one we were after.”, drawled the advancing treasure hoarders.

her hands trembled on her sword. how could she possible deter these twenty, no, thirty treasure hoarders alone? glancing down at her sheathed blade, misa wondered if she’d see her family again.

no, why was she thinking like this?

steady yourself, misa. focus on your breathing. the dance will go on. your blade does not rest.

she draws her sword.

to the young swordsmaiden’s surprise, a new energy unlike anything she had witnessed before struck her senses. and so she danced, her blade piercing the air and with it bringing down the treasure hoarders in quick succession. but she could only go on for so long.

panting, misa retreated towards the edge of the river. the men relentlessly kept on coming, and she knew she was almost completely spent. her legs and hands quivered, and her mind raced with prayers to the goddess baal. with a small breath, she spoke these words:

“archons, guide me. i beg, lend me your strength.”

a faint crackling filled the air, before a tremendous burst of silver lightning struck the ground before her. the sword in her hands glowed a pale purple, and it was then that she realised the archons had answered her prayers. wielding this newfound power, she swung her blade with a new fervour.

twenty, no, thirty treasure hoarders lay at the princess of the kiyoharu household’s feet. the chime of a small ornament hitting the ground was the only sound after the crackling died down. at long last, kiyoharu misa’s vision had been granted to her by the gods. holding the electro vision in her hands, she whispered these words:

“the dance will go on.”

—

voice lines

—

hello

“i’m kiyoharu misa, nice to meet you! l-lady misa? oh no, please — there’s really no need for the formalities. i’m just as ordinary as you are. say, how about we travel together for a while? i’m sure your stories are bound to keep me entertained on our arduous journeys.”

chat: urgency

“a storm is brewing… let’s keep moving.”

chat: resting

“you’d like to rest? alright, want to share a quick meal?”

chat: sword

“i should really polish my sword soon…”

when it rains

“my my, it seems the heavens really have opened. let’s find shelter quickly, i’d hate to continue travelling in this weather.”

after the rain

“the lingering scent of the rain is one of my most favourite smells… for me, it heralds a fresh start. well, come on then! shall we head off?”

when it snows

“hmm… i really do enjoy the snow. especially when the moonlight casts a glimmering sheen over the world, enveloping inazuma in a soft silver. i hope we can witness it together sometime.”

when the wind is blowing

“i have a friend who adores the wind. he left some time ago, but i know he will return home to me one day. sometimes i wonder if i can hear his voice catching on the breeze, lines of poetry drifting along with it. hey, don’t give me that look! we’re just… uh… friends...”

good morning

“[sigh] i’m really not much of a morning person. i’m certainly not on my best form in the late morning hours… oh, you’re ready to leave already? r-right, i’ll be ready as soon as possible!”

good afternoon

“hmm, i’m feeling a little hungry… would you like to grab a bite to eat? no, it’s alright - there are inns up ahead that know the resistance. we’ll be just fine. and, if not, we have our blades. heh.”

good evening

“the setting sun is particularly pretty this evening. once the storm has fully settled, i hope to see the true beauty of the inazuman skies once again. i will see that vision to the end.”

good night

“you’re heading to sleep? alright, sleep well. me? well… the moon is my friend, i suppose. a little sword dance under its light helps me retain my focus. i won’t be too long, don’t worry.”

about kiyoharu misa

“my umbrella? oh, it was a gift from the leader of the kiyoharu household when i was born. i had it altered to accommodate the length and width of my sword - see? though it appears to be but a dainty paper umbrella, what lies within is a retribution sentence. it is my will given form.”

about us: kiyoharu origin

“my title as princess of the kiyoharu clan is something i will carry with me forever. despite the unjust fall of my household, i will bring back its honour. the raiden shogun’s vision hunt decree stripped my family of their lives, thus i swear i will reclaim justice. for them, and for the future.”

about us: kiyoharu motto

“the motto of the kiyoharu household is: “with grace and with fortitude.”, and i channel this saying into my sword whenever i draw it. it is the foundation for the kiyoharu way of life.”

about us: sword art

“ah, i see you have taken an interest in my fighting style. for me, fighting with a sword should not just be about the battle. it is an art, and i find myself overindulging in the grace and fluidity of swordsmanship all too often.”

about the vision

“my vision? i see it as a way of showing solidarity against the oppressive raiden shogun. i do not wish to hide that which is so dear to me, and that which forges my identity. this vision is my symbol of strength, and the tenryo commission who seeks it will be met with my unyielding blade.”

something to share

“i’m not sure how long you will be in inazuma for, but traveler - one day, i’d like to take you to a festival here. they are truly wonderful, and members of the resistance always find ourselves sneaking in to witness them as well. ever since i was young, i’ve loved them so much, and i’d love to share this memory with you as a reminder of your time in inazuma.”

interesting things

“traveler, is it true that in liyue there are gods that walk amongst the people? huh… adepti you say… so, they just co-exist with mortals peacefully? you’ve met them?! wow… it seems i underestimated your power! just what else have you witnessed since being in teyvat…”

about kazuha: relationships

“kaedehara kazuha? ahem… well… yes, i suppose you could say that we are… lovers, of sorts. on his final night here, he left me with a single promise. i often spend nights staring up at the moon with him in my mind. i will wait for him, for as long as it takes, i know that i will see him again one day. i know that he will return home soon.”

about kazuha: poetry

“kazuha would often recite haikus to me as we’d live together when he was here. i remember him arriving at my doorstep, drenched in rain from head to toe, and i hadn’t the heart to turn him away. he stayed for a while, and after a few days i decided to risk it all for him. the bond we share… is unbreakable. if you see him, let him know that i am waiting for him.”

about kamisato ayaka

“i have a lot of respect for the princess of the kamisato clan. she conducts herself in a light i admire greatly, and she and i are close friends. her swordsmanship is just as impressive, and i would love it if we could spar once more as we used to. perhaps i will visit her soon…”

about yoimiya

“yoimiya? oh, of course - festivals in inazuma aren’t complete without a firework show organised by her. i have also heard her skills with a bow are unique, to say the least. paired with her passion for fireworks, i assume the combination work… interestingly in battle.”

about sayu

“hm? sayu… you mean the ninja who resides in the forests? i can’t say i’ve seen much of her… which is odd, considering she wields that great claymore…”

about gorou

“oh, gorou! i know him very well, actually. he was one of the first people i befriended as part of the resistance. he is a sound fighter, and i believe he can achieve great things. perhaps i can see him again soon.”

about the raiden shogun

“the raiden shogun… her despicable vision hunt decree… the tenryo commission… i detest it all. to see so many people’s dreams stripped, to see the colour fade from so many precious hopes… i will see to it that this is all restored. i cannot sympathise with a god who robs her people of their dreams.”

more about kiyoharu misa i

“you’d like to know more about me? i’m flattered. i know that your journey through inazuma won’t be easy, so please don’t hesitate to drop by every once in a while. my blade never rests, after all.”

more about kiyoharu misa ii

“the carvings on my sword are most intricate. a swordsmaiden’s weapon is her will. i find myself staring at the moon night after night, and the patterns on my sword are a tribute to the power it lends me.”

more about kiyoharu misa iii

“you want to know about my title? well, moonlit swordsmaiden refers to the way i utilise my vision. the light of the moon reflects through the electro element, and i believe that through this combination i can convey the power of the resistance.”

more about kiyoharu misa iv

“i’m an only child, so the fate of the kiyoharu clan rests in my hands. traveler, i believe that through knowing you i have become a better person. i hope that you will visit inazuma once again.”

more about kiyoharu misa v

“here, this is for you. it’s a charm made from pure sea glass. the way the sun and moonlight reflects through its unique colours is a rare sight to behold. i suppose this is a thank you gift, for everything we’ve been through together.”

kiyoharu misa’s hobbies

“my hobbies? well, in the late night and early morning hours, i enjoy heading down to a secluded beach and basking in the moonlight. those hours are the perfect opportunity to practice swordsmanship, and the art of sword dancing too. besides that, i suppose i enjoy embroidery too, although i’m not particularly good at it…”

kiyoharu misa’s troubles

“i often worry about the other members of the resistance. i find myself questioning as to whether they still have their visions, or even their lives. on top of that, i hope that one day i will be reunited with my lover… i pray that he too made it out safely.”

favorite food

“my mother used to make the most takoyaki. my family weren’t so insistent on having maids running around when we could cook everything ourselves, so i would always snack on my mother’s dishes. even today, the taste of takoyaki brings back vivid memories of my mother.”

least favourite food

“honestly, i’m not much of a picky eater, but i’m not too fond of anything containing fish eggs…”

birthday

“happy birthday! it’s a special day for you today. is there anything in particular you’d like? no, don’t be silly, of course i’ll get it for you! seeing as you’ve helped me this far, it’s only right that i give something back to you! on top of that, if there’s anything you ever need at all, i’ll be sure to help you out, friend.”

feelings about ascension: intro

“my blade only grows stronger. let’s continue working hard.”

feelings about ascension: building up

“how to describe this feeling… lightweight, but more powerful. the dance will go on.”

feelings about ascension: climax

“with each passing day, my blade grows keener. the moon seems more radiant than ever before.”

feelings about ascension: conclusion

“i believe i owe you a great thanks. the moonlight that rains down on the world will forever be in your favour, traveler. both you and i will improve leaps and bounds from here on out.”

addition to party

“are we heading off?”

“alright, ready when you are.”

“it’s time, let’s go.”

elemental skill

“will of my sword!”

“shrouded in moonlight!”

(convergence) “cut them blind!”

(convergence) “beams, converge!”

elemental burst

“kiyoharu art: carver of radiance!”

“dance of death.”

“face my blade!”

fallen

“i thought… we’d meet… again…”

“friends… i’m sorry…”

“no… i wasn’t… done…”

—

talents

—

normal attack - kiyoharu sword art

perform up to 5 consecutive attacks with a sword.

charged attack: consume a set amount of stamina to unleash a more powerful attack, dealing physical dmg to enemies.

plunging attack: plunges from mid-air to strike the ground below, damaging opponents in an aoe upon impact.

elemental skill - remnants of moonlight

tap once: kiyoharu misa dashes quickly forwards, dealing electro dmg to enemies in her path. she leaves a thunderblade at her starting and end point of her dash.

tap again: the thunderblades converge with kiyoharu misa as the focal point, creating a triangular zone of convergence. enemies within the zone of convergence are dealt electro dmg and are knocked up. a mark of radiance is applied to enemies within the zone of convergence.

if the skill is not reactivated, the two thunderblades will converge in a line after 4s. marks of radiance last for 12s.

elemental burst - kiyoharu art: carver of radiance

kiyoharu misa leaps into the air, before plunging down and dealing a powerful slash to enemies, dealing massive electro dmg. for 3s after her slash, thunder strikes will crash down on enemies who are marked by mark of radiance, dealing extra electro dmg.

passive 1 - swordsmaiden’s revenge

enemies affected by a mark of radiance will take 15% more damage from kiyoharu misa’s normal and charged attacks.

passive 2 - thundering retribution

kiyoharu misa’s crit dmg is increased by 10% for 5s after a zone of convergence is activated.

natural passive - lightning clarity

all party members’ crit dmg is increased by 10% when kiyoharu misa is in the party.

—

constellations

—

constellation 1: tenacity of lightning

the duration of thunderblades on the field is increased to 6s, and the duration of marks of radiance on enemies is increased to 16s.

constellation 2: shredding thunder

enemies marked by marks of radiance have their elemental res decreased by 20%.

constellation 3: roots of kiyoharu

the level of kiyoharu art: carver of radiance is increased by 3.

constellation 4: fatal reunion

if there are more than 5 enemies within the zone of convergence cast by remnants of moonlight, the cooldown is decreased by 3s.

constellation 5: swordsmaiden’s unwavering will

the level of remnants of moonlight is increased by 3.

constellation 6:

kiyoharu art: carver of radiance deals 50% more dmg to enemies previously affected by electro.

—

appearance

—

kiyoharu misa is a young woman and is of average height, with light brown hair, tied half up in a braided bow and then tied at the very bottom. she has bangs which frame her face. her eyes are deep gray-purple, and she has a small scar across the bridge of her nose. her outfit is coordinated with white and lavender colours, and her paper umbrella is also patterned with lavender coloured lightning and flower patterns.

i’m horrible at art so here’s a fun picrew of misa …… this isn’t what she’d wear but it’s the closest thing to what i was imagining ig …… also the band aid is supposed to be her lil scar LOL

[heademptyjustvolleyballs]

Karasuno Back Country Camping

Backcountry camping is done in remote, isolated areas where groups need to be entirely self-sufficient. It usually requires canoeing, hiking, or climbing to reach the site.

Daichi Sawamura: Brings a family size tent so friends can share. Scouted the site ahead of time and basically organized the whole excursion (it’s a captain thing). Brings the cooking supplies and camp suds.  He’s scheduled group activities for everyone, but once he gets there, he just wants to sit in a folding chair by the fire and watch the clouds.

Koushi Sugawara: At the beginning of the trip his phone's on airplane mode, he packed a book, and he's excited to spend some time off the grid. By day 3, he's taking hour long hikes away from the site, desperate to find a data signal. Eats an entire bag’s worth of marshmallows in a night and makes himself sick. Mosquitos and deer flies ignore him the lucky bastard.

Asahi Azumane: Came fully prepared for the worst case scenario. He brought bear spray, flares, whistles, enough first aid supplies to stock an ambulance... and yet somehow managed to forget his sleeping bag. Brought an axe in case they have to chop wood for the fire, but someone else has to use it because it makes him nervous. Packs everything in waterproof compression sacks & his backpack is super organized. 

Yuu Nishinoya: Packs super light: minimal food & clothes, supplies & entertainment. Sleeps in one of those hammock tents so he doesn’t have to search for level ground. Favourite day time activity is finding that perfect diving rock and jumping in the lake. DIdn’t pack a towel so he has to lay out in the sun to dry off, or use a t-shirt. Prone to wandering off alone to explore the area around the site. Will probably return with mushrooms or berries that he cannot confirm aren’t poisonous.

Ryuunosuke Tananka: Only brought 1 pair of shoes on the trip. They aren’t proper camping shoes, and they get so waterlogged, muddy, and gross he’s going to have to burn them when he gets home. We aren’t even going to talk about the state (and stank) of his feet (RIP Tanaka’s tentmate). Walks around the campsite practically naked. Definitely skinny dips in the lake. Never cooks or offers to do dishes.

Chikara Ennoshita: He’s one of those gourmet back-country types. Sure, bringing more fresh food is extra bulk & weight, but he thinks having a real meal in the middle of the woods is worth it. Invested in kevlar no-tear bags to safely store food overnight. Keeps his cellphone off the entire trip, but brings an actual camera to document the adventure. Makes fun little slideshows from the pictures he takes on the trip. Tells the best scary campfire stories.

Hisashi Kinoshita: He camps so frequently that his bag is always packed and he can be ready to go really quickly.  However, any trip longer than four days has him itching (figuratively and literally) for a shower and starting to get anxious to go home. Brings extra bug spray. Doesn’t own any fancy camping gear except for a camping hammock, he’ll sleep in it on really nice nights. Keeps a camping journal with maps, drawing, notes, etc. that is better than any field guide on the market.

Kazuhito Narita:  Takes him the longest to set up his tent-- he really should have invested in a pop-up to avoid dealing with all the poles. Has watched 1 too many episodes of Survivorman and thinks he’s going to have to Bear Grylls his way through every difficulty he encounters. He’s fully ready to live off the land-- he brought a fishing rod, hunting knife, and wilderness food guide (there’s also 10 packs of instant ramen in his backpack). Once lit a fire just using two sticks and he won’t let you forget it.

Tobio Kageyama: Brought a single-person tent because he doesn’t want to share, but regrets it because he can hear EVERY animal scurrying by at night. Not great at camp cooking but at least he’ll offer to do the dishes. Poor baby has to soak a bandana in bug spray and wear it around his neck all the time because he gets eaten alive. Didn’t bring any rain gear so he has to wait out storms in his tent. Lives off of beef jerky & raisins, no one knows how he isn’t dying of indigestion.

Shoyo Hinata: He’s over-excited and over-packed!  Half the stuff he brings never leaves his backpack.  Runs around the camp barefoot & climbs trees for fun during the day. Manages to see all the wildlife-- otters, foxes, rare birds, snakes-- but by the time he points them out to others, they’re gone.  Hates lake swimming (the lake bed is slimy and he didn’t bring water shoes), so he only gets in the water for quick dips when he starts feeling nasty. Wears a whistle around his neck at all times because if he ventures away from the site, he WILL get lost.

Kei Tsukkishima: No matter how comfy his sleeping pad is, he cannot sleep in a tent and resigns himself to being sleep deprived and extra grumpy the entire time. Offers to bring & make breakfast every morning because it’s not like he’s sleeping in. Can build a functional rain shelter in under 10 minutes with no assistance (it’s a very appreciated gift). Spends the whole trip at the site, he’s too tired to do any hiking or canoeing. Wears the same clothes the whole trip, but washes them with camp suds daily. 

Tadashi Yamaguchi: Borrows most of his gear from more experienced friends, which makes him extra cautious when setting up camp. Made his own fire-starters and lanterns, just to feel extra outdoorsy. Always sunscreened up and wearing a hat. Brings the best snacks, and remembered a portable speaker for the tunes! Terrified of having to shit in the woods.

(I’m going to put the girls on a separate camping trip... stay tuned)

[asweethistory]

S’mores Scouts

Peach Pit Ice Cream with Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers and Roasted Marshmallows

Wanting to create an organization that taught young girls that they could accomplish anything, Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low, held the first Girl Scout meeting on March 12, 1912 in Savannah, Georgia. 

As an accident-prone and sickly child growing up in Savannah, Chicago, and New York, Juliette spent most of her energy on art and poetry. With the help of her cousins, she formed the Helpful Hands Club, which made clothing for Italian immigrant children. Her nickname was often altered to “Crazy Daisy” due to her spontaneity and eccentricity. In her early 20s, Juliette traveled to Europe and learnt how to write shorthand, ride bareback, and hunt birds. In 1886, Juliette married William Low, but because of long bouts of separation, his gambling, and Juliette’s inability to have children, the relationship was rocky. While she was home alone, Juliette continued her passion for painting and took up wood- and metalworking.  She also focused on charity work, which William did not support. By the turn of the century, after the revelation of William’s adultery, the couple proceeded with a divorce, although William died before it was finalized, leaving everything to his mistress. Juliette contested the will and ultimately received their Savannah home.

Looking for a new purpose, Juliette met the founder of the Boy Scouts in 1911. After getting involved in the female offshoot of the Boy Scouts, the Girl Guides, Juliette started her own organization. Although she originally wanted it to be the sister organization of the Boy Scouts, there was other competition, most notably from the Camp Fire Girls, ran by the chief executive of the Boy Scouts, James West, who promoted strict gender roles. Juliette moved forward with renaming her group the Girl Scouts, a decision that West opposed because he believed that boys wouldn’t be comfortable sharing the name with girls. 

Juliette went on to develop a national headquarters and spread Girl Scouting across the country. She wanted girls to learn self-sufficiency and to understand that life existed outside of traditional womanly duties. On camping trips, the girls learned first aid, astronomy, sports, and math. With the U.S. entering WWI, the Girl Scouts grew and supported the war effort by farming and canning their own food. They also collected and donated peach pits to the Army, since it had been recently discovered that stone fruit pits could be turned into charcoal, which helped to absorb deadly gas. The Girl Scouts were second to the Red Cross in accumulating peach pits, using signs with messages like “You save peach seeds, you will save soldier’s lives.”

In 1920, Juliette pivoted from leading the national organization to traveling and advancing its reach abroad. At the time, the organization had 70,000 members, a number that more than doubled by 1930. Juliette died of breast cancer and lead poisoning at age 66. She was buried in her Girl Scout uniform, the pocket of which contained a note that read, "You are not only the first Girl Scout, but the best Girl Scout of them all."

Today, we know the Girl Scouts foremost for their cookies, which they begin selling in 1917, but there is another sweet treat that is attributed to the scouts. Ten years after they sold their first cookies, a recipe for “Some More” was published in a 1927 Girl Scout guide called “Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts.” The name of the chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker sandwich wasn’t shortened to s’more until after 1971. Of course, these treats had been tasted before they were promoted by the Scouts, but it was the Girl Scouts who popularized and named our favorite campfire dessert. Interestingly, the history of marshmallows and graham crackers themselves makes an ironic contrast when then are mushed together: In the late 19th century, marshmallow roasts were known to be great places for sensual flirting, while early in the century, minister Sylvester Graham invented the graham cracker to kill libido.

Never affiliating with the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts always swayed more progressive and preached inclusivity. Juliette,  who had gone deaf at age 17, wanted no disabled girl to feel unwelcomed. Starting in the 1930s, their resources were published in Braille. This attitude was maintained throughout the Girls Scouts history. In 2011, despite haters, a Colorado troop became the first to admit a trans girl. That being said, though, the Girl Scouts were segregated until the 1950s. Yet, Martin Luther King Jr. called them “a force of desegregation” in 1956. The Boy Scouts did not desegregate until the 1970s.

[ofhoneyandrosepetals]

Spooky Little Stories - Halloween special series (Tale I - Bjorn)

Pairing: Modern!Bjorn x OFC

Description: in this Halloween special series you’ll follow five tales, which one of them with a different Ragnarsson and a different pairing! A group of five friends travel to Kattegat in the last week of October to see if what people tell of that little town is true...

Every week a new chapter!

Warnings: swearings and mentions of sex.

Word count: 2,911

A/N: due to Tumblr’s links problems, I’m not going to put here the link for my masterlist and my ask, but you all can keep up with the link for my masterlist in my bio!

It was the spooky season, as my friends had told me, like if I didn’t know that. Of course I knew it, with all of them screaming that all the time as the 1st October arrived. I wasn’t one for Halloween, or even autumn - I rather be at somewhere sunny right now, sat under a coconut tree watching as the waves come and go in their incessant agony.

I liked the warm that surrounded me, the feeling of the sun burning my skin, leaving it golden, and autumn was the complete opposite of that - it was coldish and everything was grey and that weird tone of orange.

Plus, I hated pumpkins.

When I was a child my dad used to put that scarecrow in front of our house during Halloween that had a pumpkin head and that shit just terrified the shit out of me.

“We need to go to Kattegat,” Kimmy said, waking me up from my own thoughts.

“Katte-what?” I asked.

“Kattegat. Never heard of it?” My other friend, Halston, asked.

“No, what is it?” I asked, completely unaware of whatever it was.

“It’s a little town located by the shore of Norway. It has the reputation of being cursed, full of creatures…” Kimmy was coming closer to me in an attempt to give me a jumpscare, but I cut her off.

“What? Do all of you really want to cross the world, to extreme north of Europe in the middle of October just to visit a boring little town? Where is all the money coming from?” I said a little cranky. I was always a little cranky.

“My parents, of course. Since I got dumped, like, one day before my marriage, they’ve been too much sentimental all over me. They’ll do anything I ask them,” and that was Jule, the girl that, during high school, I couldn’t believe even in a thousand years that I would come up being friends with, since she’s super rich, super hot and super blonde.

At first I thought she was super idiot, but she’s actually super awesome. I was the one who introduced her to our little group.

Long story short, since Jule came from the high society and was incredibly beautiful, she got engaged right after graduating from high school. Two years later, almost getting married, her ex-husband - who also happened to be the richest guy in our high school - left her for a chick in Cancún.

Life is a box full of surprises, huh?

And my surprise was right in front of me: my friends and their trip to Kattegat.

“Where’s Sam?” I asked.

And, when I did it, all of them went poker face, not knowing what to do nor to say.

“She’ll be right back,” Kimmy said first.

“With things,” completed Halston.

“Things?” They nodded. “What kind of ‘things’?” I asked, suspicious.

“Tickets,” Jule said right on the spot.

“Imma out here,” I said, pretending to get my car and go back to the safety of my house. They didn’t even need to tell me what kind of tickets they were - I already knew in my guts.

“Oh, no no no no, please stay!” Halston got up with me and held my hands. “You’ll like this trip! It will be in the last week of October - we’ll leave on friday and get back in the next weekend - and you’ll love it! It’s right in the coast of Norway and the landscape is beautiful…” Halston kept mumbling about Kattegat and all its high points, but damn, that bitch knew how to get me going.

She won me in “the landscape is beautiful” because I was a nature goner. I bit my lips, measuring my options and its consequences.

It would be autumn anywhere I’d go in the north hemisphere; it would still be Halloween month; and I couldn’t afford a trip where it was spring.

Gosh, what would I give for a spring break right now…

And, apparently, Jule’s parents would be paying for everything, which I wasn’t so much of a fan, but it was definitely a good point for my pocket change.

“Okay,” I agreed shortly and left the room, trying to make my exit as much as dramatic as I expected it to be.

*

We rented a car to go to Kattegat, since it was a so far away town. Or, as we arrived, I could call it a village, because that was how it looked like - or at least that part.

“When I was told it was a little town, I wasn’t expecting it to be that little,” I pointed, being a little sarcastic.

“You suck, Ella,” Sam said. “It was where the travel guide told us to come. He would show us the historical part of town so we could go to our hotel.”

“Actually…” Jule started.

“Oh no,” I responded. “That only means one thing.”

“Maybe…”

“You guys did not reserve rooms in a weird hotel or something, did you?” Now I was a bit terrified - it wasn’t enough the fact that we were all very far from home, but also staying in a weird place in this weird town which, I must complete, have a bad reputation, completely by our own.

“They’re cabins.”

“Oh my god…” I put my elbows on my knees and covered my face with my hands. “Do I even need to point out the danger of this shit? You guys have never even camped before. Did any of you watch Friday the 13th?”

“Ella, you’re overreacting,” Kimmy tried to say.

“I’m not overreacting anything, I’m just saying that I don’t wanna die in a freaking cabin in this freaking place. It’s not only cold here, it looks cold. This is Norway, oh my god. If this end of the world filled with trees is the historical part of town then I don’t wanna see the real urban signs.”

“Someone please calm that bitch down,” Kimmy said, stopping the car.

“There’s nothing to worry about, Ella,” Halston tried to calm me down.

“This is way far from home,” I muttered.

“Hey,” a strong and masculine voice was heard and I screamed.

“God, what is that now? Are you okay, Ella?” Sam asked.

“She’s just freaking out, I think she never left the country before,” Jule said very peacefully.

“Who are you?” I asked to the guy who was standing in front of the driver’s window.

“I’m Bjorn and I’ll be your guide here in Kattegat,” he said with a smile.

When I left the car I could see him better - Bjorn was a huge man, tall and strong, all muscles, very blonde and tanned. How can a person living in a place like this be tanned?, I wondered.

“Do you girls need help with your bagages?” He offered.

Sam was the first to go all flirty, thanking him and touching his forearm, obviously to feel his muscles. The way they looked at each other and the way they connected in a burst made me wanna look the other way, like if I was seeing something I wasn’t supposed to.

Bjorn guided us through what I called “the village”, but he called “the historical side of town”. It was just wooden houses - as far as I could design them - in the middle of a bunch of trees.

“My ancestors once ran this place,” he said, walking in front of us, carrying Sam’s bags as she followed him like a happy puppy. “It was during the Vikings Age.”

“So you’re saying you come from a viking lineage? Like, you have viking blood?” Kimmy asked.

“Yeah, I do,” he said all proud.

“Where can I get a viking?” Kimmy whispered to us.

“Vikings? Cabins? Wood? Axe murders, you mean,” I said.

“They do used axes, yes,” Bjorn said. He kept explaining everything that he could tell from a place around one thousand year ago, which I wasn’t much interested in. I tried to look in the distant, trying to see the beach, but all I could do was hear the waves breaking on the rocks.

“And, in the end of our little walk, there are your cabins, girls,” Bjorn waved to ten wooden cabins, all looking new and built in a viking style. “This year you happen to be only ones here - all our other tourists decided to check the new place in downtown -, so you can choose which one you all want. I can arrange five beds in one cabin if you want me to, there’s no problem.”

“And where are you staying?” Sam said in a tone that made me want to suddenly be her mother.

“Up the hill,” Bjorn pointed to a little house. “I stay there during times like this. The view is amazing and it’s relaxing…” he said getting closer to Sam. That wasn’t going to end well.

“But the most important question, actually, is: are you the only one here? I mean, only the five of us and you?” I asked, and everyone looked at me surprised. “I’m not trying to get laid, I’m just… I mean…” I threw my hands in the air. “How can you take care of all of that alone?”

“Oh, it’s not hard. I have brothers who help me, but they’re here and there running errands, taking care of bigger things in downtown.”

“Brothers,” Kimmy whispered to us, raising her eyebrows and biting her lips.

I rolled my eyes and announced we were taking cabin number 5, because I liked the number and the location of it. It could give me a good look from the windows - for both beauty nature and safety.

*

Bjorn suggested a campfire during the night, which my friends not only agreed, but also loved the idea.

Campfires weren’t a new and exciting thing to me, especially when they had marshmallows and spooky stories - I was a scout girl when I was a kid, and wasn’t very fond of it.

But there I was, sat by a campfire in the cold night, jet lagged and wanting to die with Sam’s and Bjorn’s flirts to each other. It wasn’t that I didn’t like the guy, he was okay, but I didn’t have good feelings about him. Something was wrong, something was weird.

“So you’re a very… handy guy, aren’t ya?” I asked him directly, cutting his laugh to Sam.

“That depends,” he raised an eyebrow.

“Well, I don’t know. You live up there,” I pointed with my head. “With all of this, that obviously need repairing. I guess you’re good with tools.”

“I happen to be,” he stated, defiantly.

“Like to hunt?”

“Yeah.”

“I used to hunt with my dad,” I said, and it was truth.

“Do you like it?”

“Yeah,” but this was a lie. I hated to hunt, and the only reason why I did that it was because I was a scout girl and my dad wanted a son. “I have a pretty good aim,” true.

“What is it that I smell?” Bjorn pretended to sniff in the air, taking giggles out of Sam and the other girls. “Oh… challenge?” I shrugged, getting my attention back to my marshmallow. “So, what’s gonna be? Knife or bow?”

“You choose on which one you want to loose with,” I said, sounding a little confident. Bjorn got up, sighing.

“Girl, I’m good with everything, even axes.”

“Axe murder,” I whispered to Jule, who giggled because she was drunk. “I’ll take the knife, then,” Bjorn tilted his head in agreement.

“Knife it’ll be.”

He handed me ten throwing knives and leaded all of us to a place in the woods, not very far from our cabins, and placed two targets in the trees - one for me and one for him.

“Two at a time?” He asked, grinning. I could see his canines shining in the moonlight and that sight gave me shrives. My spider-sense was definitely tingling.

“You’re a viking, I’m only a scout girl. This game needs to be fair.”

“It’ll never be fair if you’re dealing with far more that you can handle.”

“Ouch!” Sam said out loud. “That hurt even in me.”

“Oh, shut up,” I said as I threw two knives at the same time - one got right on spot, but the second went a little far from the red circle.

“Not bad, Ella. Not bad at all,” Bjorn said and threw his knives - and of course the two of them hit the red circle. “Better with three?”

“You shitting me,” and I threw three, one after another, very quickly. I know it wasn’t probably what he meant, but it was the best I could do. At least I got all of them right. And so was Bjorn.

Because of my dad I spent too many afternoons training in our backyard, because I wanted him to be proud of me, to be proud of the daughter he had, because I wasn’t a boy. So, without even saying anything, I threw four knives - two in each hand at the same time - and the last one alone. I got three. Bjorn got them all.

“Damn you,” I said and, right after that, I heard a howling. “Okay, holy shit, no one told me there were wolves here.”

“Oh, they’re harmless,” Bjorn waved his hands as if it was nothing and started taking the knives out of the trees, playing with them in the air and in his hands.

“Harmless?” Halston asked. “I don’t think so.”

“I’m going to the cabin, guys,” I announced. “I intend to survive long enough to at least see what Bjorn calls downtown.”

Halston came with me and we shared the same bed. From the girls, she was my oldest friend - we know each other since we were kids and we lived in the same street. She held my hand when we were laid down.

“I know it’s your first time so far away from home, and look at this. This is so different,” she smiled. “I understand why you’re scared. I am too,” her grip in my hand got stronger. “I know you never wanted to be a scout girl, that you never wanted to do any of that, but you did it because of your father. I know how much this places is fucking up with you. But I’m here, and all of your friends are here, but specially me.”

I was a single child, but Halston was my non-blood sister. I smiled at her and I calmed down a little bit, at least enough to get some sleep.

*

I had no idea what time it was, but sure it was around 3 PM.

I heard a scream.

To be more accurate, I heard Sam’s scream, and I knew it was her because I recognized the loud tone. Halston, Kimmy and Jule got up, wide eyes open.

“Oh my god what was that?!”

“Where’s Sam?”

“Oh my god, is Sam hurt?”

“Where is she?” I asked Kimmy and Jule, since they were the ones who left outside when me and Halston went inside the cabin.

“We were all drinking, and Bjorn offered to show her his cabin and its view at night, and that’s when we split.”

“How long was that?”

“I don’t know, a couple of hours?”

Then we heard the burst of laughs that obviously belonged to Sam.

“What is happening?” Halston asked, confused and scared.

Sam opened the door, Bjorn right behind her.

“Thank you for walking me,” she said all over him.

Bjorn didn’t say a word, just smiled to all of us and closed the door. His smile made me feel weird in my guts. Even though it was dark in the cabin, I didn’t need light to smell blood, after years of hunting with my dad.

“Sam?” I whispered carefully.

“Yes…?” She responded, sounding drunk - from both alcohol and sex.

“Are you okay, Sam? We heard you scream.”

“Oh, that was nothing…!” I could feel her waving in the air. “Bjorn tried to scare me.”

“Tried? I think he accomplished,” Halston said.

“On all of us, actually,” Kimmy completed.

Sam was so drunk that she immediately fell asleep, and the others slept too, except for me, who couldn’t sleep because of the smell and the curiosity.

So, on the tip of my toes, I got out of bed, making a hell of effort to not wake Halston up, and went to Sam’s bed. Her back was turned to me and I carefully lifted her shirt, just to see that I was right.

A big and deep scratch was on her back, almost like if a savage animal had cut her with its claws, and the vision of it made me freak out and I fell to my knees, trying to clean the blood that was on my hands.

“Oh god what is that what is that what is that what is happening why is she asleep isn’t it hurting oh my god oh my god oh my god…”

And, as an omen, I heard a howl that gave me goosebumps all over my body, and I knew that coming to Kattegat was a bad idea, because it was obvious that all the tales, all the bad reputation were a true bad shit.

There was something in the town and Bjorn was involved, crystal clear.

And, maybe, even his brothers.

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