#trench shoring shield

[wmheart3012]

𝟐: 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 | 𝐎𝐂!𝐋𝐞𝐮𝐫 𝐱 𝐀𝐳𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥

♡ 𝐅𝐥𝐮𝐟𝐟 | ♤ 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐭 | ♞ 𝐇𝐮𝐫𝐭/𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭 | ☆ 𝐒𝐦𝐮𝐭 {𝟏𝟖+} | ♛ 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐞 {𝟏𝟖+}

꧁༒☬𝓶𝓪𝓭𝓭𝔂'𝓼 𝓷𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓰𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷☬༒꧂

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆.

★彡[ʏᴏᴜ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴀɴʏ ᴘᴇʀᴍɪꜱꜱɪᴏɴ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ, ʀᴇ-ᴘᴏꜱᴛ, ᴏʀ ᴛʀᴀɴꜱʟᴀᴛᴇ ᴀɴʏ ᴏꜰ ᴍʏ ᴡᴏʀᴋꜱ. ɪ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴏᴡɴ ʀɪɢʜᴛꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴀɴʏ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ɪɴᴠᴏʟᴠᴇᴅ ɴᴏʀ ᴅᴏ ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴀɴʏ ᴀᴄᴛᴏʀꜱ, ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛɪᴏɴ ᴏꜰ ᴍʏ ᴏᴄ. ᴀʟʟ ᴡᴏʀᴋꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ᴏꜰ ꜰɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀʀᴇ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀᴄᴄᴜʀᴀᴛᴇ ᴅᴇᴘɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴꜱ.]彡★

★彡[ᴍɪɴᴏʀꜱ ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴇɴɢᴀɢᴇ]彡★

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𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟏: 𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 - ★彡[ᴛᴀʙʟᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛꜱ]彡★

★彡[ᴘʀᴇᴠɪᴏ��ꜱ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ - ɴᴇxᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ]彡★

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Azriel

11 months after the wall

They're waiting for the Winter Solstice to pass, and then they'll defect. My shadows sung, a delicate tune in my ears.

It was all I really needed to know. The High Lord had sent me to the northernmost Illyrian steppes to gather information about unrest in the camps following the war. I knew with that information alone, they'd disappear before we reached Solstice. Still, I maintained my perch in the tree, gathering more intel.

I didn't want to give him any reason to call upon me in the morning.

We were all meeting at the cabin, taking a day to soak up the autumn air, fish, spar, do whatever we pleased. Our entire family would be present, which seemed so rare and fleeting these days. However, that wasn't the reason I was so excited.

I'd made the decision a few days ago, after overhearing a conversation the High Lord was having. Now that the war was over, the High Lord thought he'd make a show of the healing tensions between the opposing courts by finally making good on the betrothal. Leur and Tamlin's wedding date would be set for a week before the Spring Solstice. And I knew I'd lose my chance, lose my mate, if I didn't say something soon.

So tomorrow, I'd face it. I'd give her the opportunity to claim or reject me, and whatever she chose, whatever made her happiest, that's what I'd do. Tamlin was her best friend, and if she wanted to honor the betrothal- I'd find a way to live with it. I barely let myself consider the other possibility, the possibility of a life with her. It was a dream, so unattainable, some kind of heaven that would banish the darkness inside of me.

Something pushed down the bond, happiness, freedom. She was flying, I realized. She always felt so content when she was flying, and it had always been one of my favorite things to feel coming down the bond. I let a soft smile grace my face as I returned to my musings.

If she did accept me, the odds are it would require her to give up her status. Her father would never allow her to be with a bastard born Illyrian, no matter how much I bent myself backwards trying to impress the man. He wouldn't allow it on the principle alone. I'd spent years wallowing on it, wondering if I could ask her to give up her life to be with me. I knew no matter what I did, I'd never deserve her. But I was done denying her the opportunity to make the choice herself.

They're slowly storing supplies away, 6 miles northwest from their camp. The shadows whispered again, A trench concealed by a fallen log at the base of an evergreen tree, half a mile from shore. They have stores of food, but are running low on weapons-

Fear shot down the bond, distracting my shadows from their intel. For a moment, it paralyzed me, and then it fizzled out and the bond went still. I couldn't feel her. There was no lavender smoke swirling in my mind, no constant stream of ever-changing emotions, no music. It was silent, that golden bond swallowed by endless darkness.

The panic consumed me, just for a few seconds. I remembered all the times she shielded me before, even without knowing it. During the war, I heard nothing from her for over 5 months once. Our bond had been so much stronger since Starfall, so much clearer. She hadn't put up a shield since then, so that impenetrable silence had to just be a result of that.

But the fear, my breath caught on the fear. She should have been in Velaris, the unbreakable city that had remained safe for years. I forced myself to remain calm. It could have been anything. A spider in the hall, Cassian playing a prank on her, a strong gust of wind that pushed her wings off course. Just like the bond, my instincts had been on overdrive since last Starfall. I couldn't imagine, even if she did accept me as her mate, that Leur would be happy about me losing my mind at every little spike of fear that slipped down the bond.

I calmed myself, taking a deep breath. I'd force myself to confirm their stash of supplies was truly there, and then I'd check on the western sea borders on my way back to Velaris. Leur would be there when I reported to her father, and all I needed was to see her. When I confirmed she was safe, this dreadful feeling would subside.

So, that's exactly what I did. Still, with every passing moment, a feeling grew deeper and deeper in my chest.

Something is wrong, the shadows whispered, something is wrong.

I ignored them as I landed in the House of Wind, and walked through to the High Lord's study. I gave one of the servants a small nod as I walked down the hallway, clenching my hands into fists as the feeling grew deeper and deeper.

Altair didn't even look up from his desk as I entered, a letter being drafted in his hands, darkness swirling around them. I gave him the reports, all of the details I'd gathered.

"And how would you handle this situation?" He asked as I finished.

I was taken aback, "Excuse me, sir?"

He glanced up from his paper, eyes narrowed on me like two daggers pinning me to the wall, "Tell me what punishment you'd deem fit for the unruly Illyrian groups."

I shook my head, "That is not my decision, sir. I only supply information."

A twisted smile graced his face, something wicked lurking below those violet eyes. It never failed to surprise me, how Rhys and Leur shared these same eyes, and yet they managed to look so different on all three of them.

"I'm certainly glad you know your place, boy." His voice was a low hiss, "However, I am trying something on for size."

Something is wrong, the shadows curled deeper into my ear, more forceful now, Something is wrong. Say what he wants you to say.

"I'd make an example out of them, sir." I answered. His eyes narrowed, and I could tell he did not believe me. I continued, "Illyrians indoctrinate their young with their ideals. If the group has turned against the Night Court, they will only breed more who will follow in their father's footsteps if left unchecked."

The lie tasted sour in my mouth, but I said it with enough confidence that the suspicion in his eyes fizzled.

He tilted his head at me, "Interesting. You believe it should be a public display?"

"It could be, but it isn't essential." I kept my face bland, "Rumors will do just as well as a public execution, if not better."

He nodded, "You're quite smart for a bastard."

An insult and a compliment at once, how fitting. "Thank you, sir." I lowered my head to him before turning to leave. He dismissed me with a wave of his hand.

Just as my hand gripped the doorknob, something horrid struck my chest. I felt that bond pull tight, and rearrange itself. That sinking feeling I had intensified, deeper and deeper. Until I was nothing but my shaking hand on the doorknob and my shadows howling in my ears.

Get out. Get out. Get out. The shadows sang, and I obeyed.

"Enjoy your reprieve tomorrow, Shadowsinger." Altair called after me, a sinister tone in his voice.

I could barely register his words as something pulled tight on that bond, cracking it under the weight. I stumbled into the hallway, my feet somehow continuing to operate as I felt my soul collapse in on itself. I rounded the corner and then it crashed into me, like a sickness creeping up the bond, dark and terrible. My heart burned with the weight of it, that harrowing fire I knew all too well lighting up the bond.

Wrong, wrong, wrong! The shadows were screeching now, twisting painfully around me as they begged me to make it stop.

Somehow, I made it to a balcony. I flung myself off of it without a second thought, allowing myself to act on instinct, as if the rushing air could stop the flames. The bond seemed to unravel like a frayed rope, growing weaker and weaker by the second, until only a tiny string remained. My wings faltered, and I realized I was screaming as I landed atop a mountain peak just outside the city.

Where is she? The shadows shrieked, Mate! Mate! Mate!

My vision blurred around the edges, my hands gripping the rocks below. I was on all fours, begging, screaming, shaking, and I couldn't stop. My body wouldn't let me. The shadows screamed and howled, and that bond was so close to snapping. I felt it, like the tiniest thread taught with the weight of the world on the other end, and I couldn't breathe. I was choking on it, that searing pain, that horrid weakening. I sent everything I could down the bond, scared it would snap under the crushing weight, my pain, my helplessness.

Please. This can't be happening.

It's not real.

It's not real.

It's not real.

And then it all stopped.

The fire went out, the pain stopped, my shadows were deathly quiet. That tiny thread remained, but it was black, lifeless, useless.

It's too late. The shadows whispered quietly.

"No." I answered them aloud, the air finally filling my lungs.

It's too late. They repeated.

"No!" I growled, forcing myself to my feet and taking flight.

My mind was a wreck as I made my way to the camps. It was all a lie, I convinced myself, a trick. Altair was toying with me, he knew that I was Leur's mate, and he was punishing me.

She's fine.

She's fine.

She's fine.

I told myself over and over, until the words stopped sounding like words in my head. Dawn began to ignite the red rock of the steppes as I weaved my way down into the camp where we planned to meet. I forced air into my lungs, my boots crunching on the frosty autumn ground as I landed.

She was here, I told myself. Any minute now, she'd come bursting out of some cabin, talking my ear off, giving me hell for allowing two weeks to pass by without seeing her. She'd be here, my little star, safe and sound, and it all would be some cruel joke of her father's doing.

She's fine.

She's fine.

She's fine.

I expected morning patrols, the sound of brutal training, the clash of blades against one another. Daybreak meant noise in the Illyrian camps, and the morning sun was already cresting on the horizon. But the camp was utterly, bone-chillingly silent.

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of red siphons. My head snapped to the sight of Cassian, hunched on the ground, his head in his hands. I ran towards him, and I knew he heard my approach but he didn't move. Next to him, the sour stench of sick wafted from the bushes.

"Cassian?" I asked, placing a hand on his shoulder.

His eyes lifted to me, and a look I had only ever seen once marred his face. The day Tanwyn died, I saw that look in his eye.

"No." I shook, as if denying it could erase the truth I felt in my bones.

"I'm sorry." He choked, "I'm so sorry, Az."

"No." I repeated, shoving him away. A tightness erupted in my chest as I gasped, finally catching her scent.

And the scent of blood.

I started running then, following it, following that tiny, dull thread. I heard Cassian following behind me as I left the camp, winding through the trees as I tracked that feeling.

Home was on the other side of that thread. My home. My future. My mate.

And it couldn't be true.

This couldn't be real.

This was some sort of sick game, some horrid prank, some test. I didn't care, I couldn't care. I needed her, needed to see her, to feel her, to hear her. I broke through the trees into a meadow not 4 miles from the camp, when my shadows clouded my vision.

No, They sung, Don't do this. Don't look at this.

I willed them away, but they stayed in place.

There are some things you cannot unsee.

It was a lie, a lie, a lie, a lie, a-

I stopped breathing when the shadows cleared, and I realized that there was nothing on the end of that bond. No home. No future. No mate.

Just the black horrors of death.

The entire field was covered in blood. Everywhere, everything, was marred with it. The wilting wildflowers were stained crimson, the scent coppery and foul in my nose.

"Oh god." Cassian's voice sounded in my ears, his voice winded from catching up to me.

Or maybe it was from the sight of the two bodies laying in the field.

Headless bodies

Headless, wingless bodies.

I heard him wretch as I began to shake.

This isn't real.

This isn't real.

This isn't real.

That couldn't be her, not my Leur, not my mate. She was happiness and moonlight, and the only pure, good thing in my life. And this... this was destruction and depravity. And her wings... her wings... her wings....

I stepped closer, hating the way my mind recognized them, hating what I saw so much I was sure I'd explode. I had wanted, so badly, more than anything, to not recognize the callouses on Hashna's hands from years of sewing, to not recognize the handmade sweater that was tattered and ripped around her body. She was face down in the grass, her back a horrid mess of visible bones and blood. I couldn't bring myself to look upwards further, to where the head of my savior, the woman who had taken me in, who had given me brothers and warmth and taught me to fly- to where I'd see her neck end in a gruesome, horrid manner. And I was so close, so close to throwing up, but I couldn't.

I couldn't breathe, or think, or move.

Please, don't look. The shadows begged, Don't. Don't. Don't.

No.

Please.

Make it stop.

Make it stop.

Not my mate.

Please.

Anyone but Leur, please. Please. Please.

It was no use. I'd recognize those swirling tattoos anywhere, that short frame, the moonstone bracelet on her wrist that I'd given her for Solstice years ago.

The scream that left my lips shook the entire forest. Whatever remained of my soul fractured in my chest as I fell to my knees, earth-shattering sobs leaving my mouth. I gathered her broken body into my arms, cold to the touch when she had always been so warm. It was wrong, so wrong, all of it, and I couldn't stop screaming.

My mate.

My love

My light.

My star.

Gone.

"Az." Cassian placed two hands on my shoulders, pulling me back from what remained of her, but I couldn't let go, not if this was all I had left.

My sobs ripped through me, the tattered pieces of my heart alight with pain as I broke. I'd known. I'd felt it. I'd felt fear, and silence, and the moment the bond went dark. I'd known, and I convinced myself it was all a lie.

I could have saved her.

I could have stopped this.

What did I do?

What did I do?

Oh god, what did I do?

Leur was gone.

"It's not her, Az. Not anymore." Cassian pulled me again, "Come on man, she wouldn't want this."

I sucked in a ragged breath, giving her one final moment, one final goodbye. I lifted her hand to my mouth, placing a gentle kiss on it, my tears dripping from my cheeks onto her bloodstained skin. I left my heart and soul, all that I am and ever would be, there with her as I let Cassian pull me away.

Goodbye, my little star.

The moonstone bracelet was the only thing I had left of her as I screamed in my brother's arms.

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★彡[ᴘʀᴇᴠɪᴏᴜꜱ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ - ɴᴇxᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ]彡★

[mild-crusader]

Somewhere in the North Atlantic...

Once upon a windy early morning on the cavernous clifftop of some abandoned island a heretic crew of slavers has unearthed 5 stone idols inscribed in the glyphs of some lost alphabet of Europe's heathen antiquity, two anointed emissaries from hell oversee malnourished wretched slaves erecting the engraved stones in arrangement with forgotten constellations, while a heretic priest burns sage over a padlocked coffin stained with blood slowly sinking into the center of an old muddy battlefield...

Satisfied with their preparation the congregation of hell marches back to shore. They hope to be a safe at sea by midnight when the stars would hang in alignment above the odious carvings and Crom Cruach awakens. Reborn, full of hate and hunger...

how unhappy must they be to see that a cruiser typical of the Eire Rangers, Faithful soldiers of the Church, have laid anchor. And worse yet! Boot tracks headed straight to the site of their ritual!!!

Will the devoted Rangers cleanse the Island of idolatry before it's too late??? Can the servants of Evil thwart the pesky interpose of the pious??? Stay tuned dear reader, you're about to FIND OUT!

BATTLE REPORT

This was a game played at 700 ducats and 0 glory using the 1.5 playtest rules for Trench Crusade. Using the Scenario "Sabotage" on a 4 foot by 4 foot board. The Attackers were the Eire Rangers sub faction of New Antioch and the Defenders were the Heretic Legion without any sub faction. Lists are posted below.

EIRE RANGERS:

Trench Cleric with Standard Armour, Grenades and Pistol

Berserker Lieutenant with Trench Shield, Sword, Grenades and Shotgun

Shocktrooper Bard Fianna with Carnyx, Sword and Standard Armour

Shocktrooper Fianna with Submachine Gun, Two Swords and Standard Armour

Shocktrooper Fianna with Submachine Gun, Two Swords and Standard Armour

Shocktrooper Fianna with Semi Automatic Rifle, Two Swords and Standard Armour

Shocktrooper Fianna with Semi Automatic Rifle, Two Swords and Standard Armour

[ EXPLORATION MODIFIERS ] Reroll

HERETIC LEGION:

Heretic Priest with Silenced Pistol

Heretic Death Commando with Tartarus Claws

Anointed Heavy Infantry with Great Sword

Anointed Heavy Infantry with Great Sword and musical instrument

Heretic Legionnaire with Gas Mask Shovel Semi-Automatic Rifle and Unholy Trinket

Heretic Trooper with Gas Mask Shovel Semi-Automatic Rifle

Heretic Trooper with Gas Mask Shovel Semi-Automatic Rifle

Wretched with Sword

Wretched with knife

Wretched with knife

Turn 0 setting up the board,

After the Trench and ruins were on the table we took turns placing the point scoring relics the attackers are meant to destroy, represented by 5 upright Stones scattered around the board and a coffin in the middle. Now time to deploy the troops.

All but one of the Ranger team were skirmishers, while my Heretic's only skirmisher was Death Commando so I placed all my wretched, my Legionnaire, and my Musical Anointed Heavy Infantry on the front edge of their Deployment Zone, clear of any obstacles ready to climb the trench and rush into no-man's land,

Death Commando would sulk inside a ruined building near the middle edge of the board. According to the rules for this mission I had to leave 4 guys in reserve so Heretic Priest, Troopers, and the un-musical Anointed Heavy Infantry, sit on the bench for the time being.

The Rangers set up more spread out, one fireteam of 2 Shocktrooper Fiannas hiding in a separate room of the metal ruined building ready to charge the commando, one Shock Trooper at the top of the cliff One at the Base of the Cliff behind some scaffolding, and the rest behind their own trench.

Now, time to let the blood flow!

Turn 1 Crusading this Trench!

First unit to activate was the humble Wretched with knife dashing up into no man's land hoping to shank the Shocktrooper at the base of the cliff.

However, he was not able to reach the Enemy before the end of his turn so it's on to the Rangers.

The Ranger fireteam get to act as one unit so it's both of their turns and it's Open Season on Death Commando,

After the first hit left him with a blood token the second killed him completely, and that marks the first casualty of our trench crusade careers! The second member of the fire team ends the turn by moving out of the ruined building into no mans land eager to get a head start on idol smashing in the next turn.

Now Wretched with Sword is dispatched against the Fireteam to get revenge! Because of his proximity to the Music of the Anointed Heavy Infantry his movement gets a boost

he scrambles up into no man's land and lunges his sword at the Fianna.

Complete miss.

Back to the Rangers it's the Trench Cleric and he moves right up the support beam of the trench and shouts something about snakes

resulting in my wretched feeling a sudden compulsion to lie down in the dirt, snake-like.

Then he turns to face a nearby stone idol and lifts his holy crozier off the ground...

Before drawing his pistol and shooting it to bits and pieces!

+1 point to the Rangers

Heretic Legionaire activates and climbs on top of a pile of cargo to get a line of sight on the Rangers

He fires one shot and misses, Then hides under the trench convincing himself to charge over into closer range next turn.

Continuing our story, the Ranger under the scaffolding at the base of the cliff counter charges the humble wretched with knife

Sliding right up behind him and in front of another stone idol, he bloodies the wretched...

and transforms the heretical stone into a patch of gravel.

the last reluctant wretched prepares his journey over the trench walls

Luckily for him, I've reached the image limit on this site so he'll have until Part 2 to steady his nerves.

End of Part 1...

[inafieldofdaisies]

What color does your OC/ship's love feel like? | uquiz | Tagging @socially-awkward-skeleton @direwombat @fourlittleseedlings @poisonedtruth @madparadoxum @josephslittledeputy @josephseedismyfather @g0dspeeed @aceghosts @detectivelokis @euryalex @strafethesesinners @strangefable @nightbloodbix @shegetsburned @jinfromyarikawa @adelaidedrubman @trench-rot @cassietrn and anyone that would like to do the uquiz <3

Sabrina:

warm burnt orange

Riding off into the sunset, the hope of a happy ending, the bitter after taste that still in it's own way smells kinda great. Your love is all bitter hopefulness, all about a broken heart that refuses to quit, all about the unshakable knowledge that a burning fire has a great comforting warm and a soft glowing light, all about the way when the sun comes down there's a beautiful starry night. It's stubbornness, it's the refusal to give up, the clutching of broken shards despite the searing pain and being adamant that dammit you can still make a beautiful stained glass window out of it. Yours is a screaming heart, a pleading love, a bitter and almost belligerent hopefulness that things will still work out even if you have to roll up your sleeves and make them. And god, aren't you tired? Isn't your heart heavy? Is all your hard work worth it? Don't you just want to curl up and let it be? Let the fire turn to ashes and the sky turn dark and let love die down and watch people leave? But you don't, do you? You're the bravest out of all of us, so you pick up the pieces and you keep going, you keep believing and you keep your heart full of hope because some day. Some day you know you'll get it. You keep riding off into the sunset and you keep filling my heart with hope as you go because god, how do I wish you finally get it too.

hope, hope everywhere, the freaking stubbornness, the somedays, the taking things into her hands. just whoa.

John:

dark stormy blue

Sinking ships, raging seas and tumultuous hearts, love isn't easy for you. It's a struggle, a constant inner fight of should I? Can I? Do I? Feelings are hard and they rumble inside you in a dissatisfied mess that begs to be let out. Your heart screams and cries inside you and you... You can't, you won't. You're scared. And love is scary, it's hard and sometimes it just doesn't work out. People leave, people hurt, people change their minds. And you and your cold stormy heart yearn for the calmness, for the distance, to be allowed and able to simply not feel. And yet, you do. It rages, it fights and storms inside you and you try to keep it down, keep it quiet, to feel pretending not to. It's the burn of childhood friends growing apart, of parents that aren't quite there, of relationships that burn out. So you snuff it down with water, cold and calming and blue, blue, blue. But being loved by you is blue too, just not in that way. It's the soothing, embracing feeling of floating, the moment when you sink down bellow the waves and become one with the water, with everything. It's the balance, the dramatic yet calming sound of waves that crash against a rocky shore. You're the good and the bad, the violence of the storm and the watery peace right after. You're the blue, blue feeling and loving you is watery tears, yelled confessions that no one will hear and burying your feelings in a deep watery grave never to be found out about. Your love is dark stormy blue, it's vast and deep and all encompassing, it's safety in the surface of danger, it's trusting the unruly abyss and yet I'd gladly risk drowning just to feel what it's like being loved by you.

okay, why is this result like everything. including the color. *shhh my heart*

bright sunny yellow

Sweet tasting popsicles, summer dresses and shielding your eyes from the sun. Your love is the excitement of something brewing, something growing. It's the almost childish bubbling giggles of something new, but with the potential to stay. It's wide smiles, blinding sunny light and warm bodies that gravitate to one another. It's the the softness, the willingness, the slight holding of breaths in a crucial "what if" moment. It's the impatience too. The bouncing on tiptoes to see further than your eyes can reach, the holding out for a future that never seems to come even though you're ready, you're so so so ready. It's the constant feeling of warm sand beneath your feet, holding out for the crashing waves. And still you wait, dry and impatient and with burnt soles of feet. Your love is sour candy, enjoying it as your nose scrunches up from the aftertaste of it. It's hands that grab and take hold, that reach and ask them to stay and hope and beg and wait. It's bubbling excitement sure, but it's also demanding, focused, driven. It's love like a plan, with a path and route and a clear destination. And you bonce on your tiptoes, and burning, waiting for the soothing water, the crashing waves, you hold onto the melting popsicle, you wait and wait and wait. It's tiring almost as much as it's lazer focused ambition, deeply rooted desire and the unrelenting hope that it will work, that it will come. And it does, I promise it does. The waves crash, the beach floods and the pain passes, the water cool and soothing and you can let yourself fall in, sinking, sinking. And it's good, it's perfect, what you were hoping and more, holding and embracing you and welcoming you into the stillness you always knew you were reaching for.

look at him getting such a cute result.

soft fresh green

Nice breeze, bare feet and freshly cut grass. Your love is a lighthearted hope for the future. It's protecting your eyes from the sun but enjoying the light rays still, it's laying on the grass and feeling it tickle your neck. You look to the side and they look back at you, full of hope and plans too. You plan together and laugh all day and your sunburn will feel like them. Your love is delicate, hesitant. A well curated binder full of collages for a future you can't be sure will come, but you keep going, you keep planning, you keep squinting at the sun and smiling, and running your hands through the grass so it will smell better. You keep holding onto the bright sky even as the sunsets, even as the starry night stares back. But you keep on holding, you keep on dreaming, you close your eyes and feel the sun on your skin and convince yourself that the sunburn is good, it's something to hold on to, just makes it linger a bit longer. Your love is a lighthearted hope for the future. It's sweet and wonderful and it keeps love alive, makes the world a better place. You run your hands through the grass, clench your fingers tighter and keep making plans. And I can only thank you and hope I can learn to love like you someday.

please, not Leslie getting more hope(s) than Sabrina, ahahha.

[vivconstructgroup]

What are the Safety Regulations for Excavation Projects?

Excavation projects involve digging into the ground. These projects are common in construction. They help to create foundations, install pipes, and more. But, excavation can be dangerous. This is why safety regulations are crucial. Let's learn more about the safety rules for excavation projects.

Why Safety Regulations Are Important

Safety regulations protect workers. They prevent accidents and injuries. Excavation work can cause cave-ins. Workers can be buried under soil. Other hazards include falling objects and equipment failures. Following safety rules reduces these risks.

Key Safety Regulations

There are many safety regulations for excavation. Here are the main ones:

1. Pre-excavation Planning

Planning is the first step. Before digging, workers must plan. They need to know the site. They must check for underground utilities. This includes gas lines, water pipes, and electrical cables. Knowing what is underground prevents damage and accidents.

2. Protective Systems

Protective systems are important. These systems prevent cave-ins. There are three main types:

Sloping: Cutting the sides of the excavation at an angle. This prevents soil from collapsing.

Shoring: Using supports to hold up the sides of the excavation.

Shielding: Using a trench box to protect workers inside the excavation.

3. Safe Access And Egress

Workers need safe ways to enter and exit the excavation. Ladders, steps, and ramps are used. These must be strong and secure. Workers should not climb on the sides of the excavation.

4. Inspections

Regular inspections are necessary. A competent person must inspect the excavation. Inspections should happen daily. They should also happen after rainstorms or any changes at the site. Inspections ensure that the excavation is safe.

5. Equipment Safety

Equipment safety is crucial. Workers must use the right tools and machines. Equipment should be in good condition. Regular maintenance is important. Workers should be trained to use the equipment safely.

6. Hazard Awareness

Workers must be aware of hazards. They should know the risks of cave-ins. They must also watch for falling objects. Workers should stay alert and avoid distractions.

7. Personal Protective Equipment (ppe)

PPE is important for worker safety. Hard hats protect heads. Safety glasses protect eyes. Gloves protect hands. Steel-toed boots protect feet. Workers should wear PPE at all times.

Training and Education

Training is key to safety. Workers must be trained in excavation safety. They should know how to use protective systems. They should know how to enter and exit safely. Training helps workers understand the risks. It teaches them how to stay safe.

Emergency Preparedness

Accidents can happen. Workers must be prepared. They should know what to do in an emergency. This includes knowing how to perform first aid. It also includes knowing how to contact emergency services. Preparedness can save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Basic Safety Rules For Excavation?

Workers must wear proper PPE. Inspect excavation sites regularly. Always have a safety plan.

How Deep Can An Excavation Go Without Support?

Excavations over 5 feet deep need support. This prevents cave-ins and keeps workers safe.

What Is The Role Of A Competent Person In Excavation?

A competent person inspects the site. They ensure safety and recognize hazards like soil type.

How Do You Prevent Cave-ins During Excavation?

Use protective systems. Trench boxes, shoring, and sloping stabilize the excavation walls.

Conclusion

Safety regulations for excavation projects are very important. They protect workers from accidents and injuries. By following these rules, excavation can be safe and successful. Remember to plan, use protective systems, and stay aware of hazards. Always wear PPE and be prepared for emergencies. Safety first!

Read More: Why Proper Groundwork Assures Construction Success?

[rissafety]

Davit Arms

We offer a range of davit arms to improve your trench shield safety. Shore your trench excavation and maintain a safe work environment. For #DavitArms, visit: https://rissafety.com.au/systems/davit-arms/

[buckybarnestales]

Sea Dive

Bucky panted heavily, his lungs aching as they took in precious oxygen that his brain needed to keep him focused. The world was a blur of washed colors as the sun shifted closer to twilight. The cawing of seagulls echoed in the winds, while the raging tides roared against the shores of the beach he had taken himself to. The muddy relic in his arms was held tight against his chest, the prize and summation of his agonizing trip into the underwater cave beneath the island he stood on. He would always think twice now about ocean trenches whenever he took a swim in hopes of finding lost treasure. The greatest treasure in the world was in his grasp and now, all he had to do was deliver it to the sea mage that had bargained for it. Despite how tired he felt, how heavy his wet clothes made him feel, he slowly crawled his way onto the rocks on the beach. He was thankfully for the flat surface that made a bed for him to lie on.

“I did it…I really did it.” He chuckled heartily at his victory. There was a time when his thoughts would’ve been consumed with the idea of a lot of cash falling into his hands for such a discovery. Now, the only reward he could fathom and want was in the form of a elf-like beauty with mahogany colored locks and eyes, as brown as sweet chocolate, and a fin made of scaled sapphires. “Selina…” He whispered out to her, his tired gaze focusing in on the shores and watching as a shapely form began to swim its way towards him.

Propelling herself with deft grace in her fueled momentum against the undercurrents that rushed over the sleekness of her alabaster flesh; Selina advanced towards harboring shore that anchored her back to him, gleams of distant sunlight became captured in the roiling waves. Forthing eddies formed over the toned curves of her svelte waist as waves broke against her.

With every measured stroke of her arms, Selina reached closer, inexplicably drawn to the beckoning—visceral call of her name resonating achingly in the graveled huskiness of his deep timbre—desperation chased those rampant echoes. The lush swell of her crimson lips parted as salty water glazed over her tongue, as she arched her tail-fin beautifully high out of the fathoms, the incandescent scaled width eclipsed the delicate planes of her back, droplets cascading tantalizingly over feminine curves and the material of her light-blue sports bra in alluring contrast—truly a siren incarnate of the sea.

Standing impassively on the edge of the shore with steeled resilence, Bucky grounded his footing, his gray cargo shorts that fitted dangerously over thickened ridges and corded-muscles of the solid length of his thighs were drenched. His wary countenance was a stark variant of the daunting-wolfish menace of her beast machine; under the shadowing brim of his baseball cap, the hard-edge planes of his hawkish features were set into a telltale grimace, conveying infinite heartache he stubbornly leashed back. He appeared desirous-crestfallen to the potency of his unslaked desire of caging her into the passionate embrace of his shielding arms, holding her until the rise of daybreak. It was the inexorable division of their world-the cadence of their souls raged for closeness while the elements of the morphic curse towed her away from him.

Breaching the shallow end of the shore, her jeweled coffee irises clashed with his grayish-aquamarine as their gazes mirrored tellingly in flash of raw -irrepressible heat through his lengthy dark tresses webbed askew over the heaviness of his stubble jaw-they couldn’t wait any longer. Letting a seize of desire ride through her veins, Selina quickly braced her lithesome form against a rock’s smooth edge, temptingly challenging him to chase her in the shushing waves. “Are you coming to join me, handsome…” she purred sultrily, arching her back to expose the slight graven planes of her delectable, curvaceous waist that shimmered with a matrix of incandescent turquoise scales. “Come on, Barnes, don’t be shy…”

“Selina…” A joyous grin spread across Bucky’s lips and his eyes lit up like stars as he set his gaze on the radiant beauty he’d been searching for. Life had become much brighter since the day they first met. His love for discovering lost treasures had become second now that he’d found the one thing in life he thought would always elude him. It was a frightening thought, one he scarcely allowed himself to think over, but with the sea angel that wait for him by the shore, it was a risk he felt worth taking. “Its so good to see you,” he said as he brought himself to roll off the rock he’d been laying on. His body ached but he felt the short rest had abundantly refueled his strength as he pushed his way across the sandy path until he could feel the cool water sloshing against his n*** ankles.

The relic in his arms was set aside and he threaded loose strands from his temple. Slowly he sank to his knees beside the mermaid whose tail-fin rested in the waters. Silence hung in the air as they openly gazed at each other, warmth and wonder sparkling in their eyes, yet a small frown pinched Bucky’s brow as he remembered. “Where’ve you been? I called for you, I waited here for the past few days…You didn’t come.”

Guardingly her measures of restraint were balancing razor wire, as she quelled down a reactive throb knifing through her heart. The naked intensity of his grayish-aquamarine irises didn’t waver; raw heat of unshed tears was potent in throes of his anguished depths. The gravity of their harbored-unconquerable devotion seemed to be steeping with every new horizon-Bucky looked definitely vulnerable as he stood impassively on the shore’s porous edge, as the resurge of untamed hope feverishly seized his veins. With a deft stroke of her lithe palm, she grudgingly traced over the mass of scales that had melded into a tail-fin, repulsed by the physical absence of her alabaster toned legs.“Sorry for letting you down, handsome,” she finally returned, her gritted undertone hitching against a vehement seethe.“ I’m trying to figure all this out…” She lifted her hand out of water in a quick splash, gesturing to her cursive deformation. “I guess adapting to the damn water is all I have left and it’s not very thrilling…”

“Somehow I think I can imagine that,” he responded with a dry chuckle as she took in his soaked clothes and exhausted state. Inwardly, Bucky knew he couldn’t begin to understand what she was going through ever since this ordeal began to her—for both of them. What should’ve been a fun and generous vacation in Greece weeks ago had become a life-changing experience that saw them both forced to separate. The curse that enveloped her turned her into a creature that till now only existed in mythical texts and stories. Selina, his Selina, was a mermaid. A damn beautiful one at that, but unlike fairy tales, this wasn’t a happy outcome for either of them as he, her still very much human lover, could do nothing but stand on the sidelines and search hopelessly for a way to restore her.

Though they were divided by their place of habitat, their love kept them devoted and Bucky was determined to make it possible for them to be together again, as humans or merpeople.

“I know this hasn’t been easy for you, darlin’,” he said as he reached out to take her pale hand into his own. Oddly enough, her skin felt warm despite the fact she swam through the cold water more often than himself. He kissed the inside of her palm as she raised it to cup his face. He felt the warmth pouring off of her, calming his restless nerves so that he could continue. “It hasn’t been easy for me either, but you taught me that only the biggest score is worth fighting for.” Shifting on his knees, he reached over for the relic he’d recovered and brought it towards them. “Whether this works or not, I want you to know it won’t change a thing about how I feel about you.”

The last sconces of twilight gleamed over the steadiness of the water, captured in the fathoms as if liquid gold was being poured; with a shaky flex of her gliding thumb, she possessively traced over the full-bow of his sensuously wide lips, a phantom caress that seized his pulse, without a visage of hesitance stalling his restoked control, Bucky fiercely clasped his metallic fingers around her delicate wrist, as his arching lips bruised heady pressure over her knuckles, urgently tasting the saltiness of her pearlescent flesh, anchoring her to stay in his desperate reach. Within dueling seconds of lucidity, she became immobilized by the innate cadence of their nearing bodies, his supping lips slid feather-light over the edge of her curved palm while his teeth shivery grazed against ragged pants. “Buck-” She murmured breathlessly, closing her eyes to infinitely feel the aching reverence of his grounded devotion.

The huskiness of her voice delivered in a soothing whisper sent a pleasant shiver through Bucky’s body. His eyes closed slightly, taking in her unique scent of seaweed and jasmine that made everything feel fresh and savory. Her skin was like a warm blanket he was drawn to and he hopelessly wanted to be enveloped in her embrace. Time had stretched in the weeks since they had last been intimate, which made it seem more like months. The desperation and direness of their predicament made every moment restless and he couldn’t take the time to openly appreciate just how beautiful she was—as a woman, and a mermaid. His eyes opening, he caught her brown orbs glowing in the twilight of the setting sun. Enriched and enchanting, he was drawn towards her like a moth to the flame.

“You’re so beautiful, Selina Kyle. So much sometimes it scares me,” he smirked to convey a form of levity to his honest words. One of his free-hands held her hand in his while the other tender caressed her scaly hip. It was a mesmerizing experience as he felt the texture of her fin that reminded him of cool metal. The sapphire color blended with the water and yet somehow, appeared even more magical as the sun sank deeper into the horizon. Words failed him as he contemplated how to voice his approval of her new form, but the smoldering look in his eyes was enough of an indicator as he noted Selina looking at him with equal fervor. “You make one heckuva mermaid.” The distance between their lips slowly decreased, the tension of their intimate reunion was like a storm building and it would take only a slow tentative brush for lightning to crackle.

“Careful Barnes, don’t forget I can race with the sharks,” Selina quipped snarkily, her clashing senses raged to become abandoned at the space of heartbeat as she felt the virile softness of his edging lips increasingly ghost shivery heat over her angled jaw; she was blindingly falling back into the shushing waves, as he braced his bulked weight on his tauten forearms, aligning the length of his muscled calves with her tail-fin. A murmurous growl tantalizingly resonated from his depths-she was aware of his telltale surrender, feeling the extent of his unsated hunger readying to capture her lips with driving force of pure, unrepented heat. Nothing ebbed. She welcomed the delirious contrast of the cool water and the corded planes of his thickened chest shadowing fractionally over the ample swells of her garbed breasts. His metallic fingers drifted over the rigid scales, embracingly feeling the shifting mass that he would soon be weighed down with.

“Guess that makes me a lucky seal, huh,” he breathy quipped. And with that, his lips found hers at last, warm and fulfilling like entering a warm bed at home. It was soft and sweet at first, like two adolescents who were playfully exploring new territory, before it quickly grew heated. Breaths intermingled, minty and cool, lips feverishly hot as a dizzying passion overcame them. Their lips danced and overlapped in a familiar cadence that brought them closer together. Hands reached out and explored the planes of each other’s arms, shoulders and hair. Bucky smiled between their amorous exchange, boyish and full of life as he brought the mermaid into his lap. “C'mere.” He murmured. The added weight of her fin was oddly comfortable as he hugged her close and dipped her into another.

Shockingly the ardent urgency of his recapturing lips surged headier with every smooth thrust of his bristled jaw, there was no ease against warring tension between them, only a breakneck abandon that ignited a visceral beckoning as their swelled lips melded with throbbing paces challenge. The shifting glide of his robotic hand caressingly traced the sapphire-translucent fins-gracing the curvaceous mass, keeping her steady with intimate ease against the undercurrents stream-lining over them.

A breathless rush of pure heat solidified under the supplely cushioned pressure of his opened mouth as she intoxicatingly mirrored that heady pulse; starved desire was insatiably escalating with additive ferocity echoing with his throaty groans that chased her heartbeat.

Each rapturous tenor increasingly altered in unison, they became caught into the edge of the deepening kiss, through that unrelenting promise, unerringly Selina clung to his steeled embrace, registering the full heaviness of her tail-fin shifting against the rigid contours of his washboard abdomen underneath a soaked black shirt. Her lithe palm splayed over the broad curves of his shoulder, threading drenched-bladed tresses of his wolfish mane draped over his clenched jaw.

Aware of the bestial resilence in his flexing muscles on the verge of being unleashed, her widened tail-fin arced out of the water in reactive poise, Selina inherently braced her elbow into the seaweed coated sand as she arched into the heavy planes of his thickened chest, with blinding precision, his metallic fingers kneaded ravenously with spearing glide through drenched whorls of luscious mahogany, he palmed reverently over her graceful nape; that shivery caress induced evocative hunger beyond core restraint against bone-deep wanting.

Knowing the full extent- the sorcerous price of his heart, Bucky lifted his head fractionally, brunette tresses feathered the knife-edge curve of his bristled jaw, the aqueous depth of his glacial irises gleamed alight, a silver flame edged his dilated pupils-intense masculine ardor. “S'it’s been so damn long, kotenok…” The graveled rawness of his murmurous timbre had challengingly impelled her.“Hell, doesn’t matter now, we’re gonna strike this out, Lina…”

She didn’t want to deny that she craved for release from the sea-bound thralls. Evocatively, she urged the fusing-rhythmic variances of their joined bodies to implode, emitting a guttural snarl that stole her breath, his shapely lips slanted bruisingly over her lavish mouth, hungrily, Bucky changed the angle of the kiss with quenchless demand as the fervent duel ensued-raging through stowed heartache. She needed to live for one finite moment with him until dawn inescapably beckoned her back as he anchored her with invincible strength.

For Bucky, it was as if nothing had changed and everything was as right as it should be. Nothing mattered except this blissful familiarity, this closeness and bond with the woman he loved and there was nothing that would separate them. As their ravenous cadence continued with breathless enthusiasm, they were both dimly unaware of a presence in the sea. The normal lapping waves were disturbed by a fluctuating mass swooshing against the currents, sending a ripple effect across the shores. Bucky could sense nothing amiss, but he could sense Selina tense up in his arms and slowly cease her passionate exchange. “Lina? What’s wrong?” He asked her worriedly as he noticed a pensive look on her fair features. He brushed a curly strand from his face and caressed her cheek.

A portent suddenly rushed over them, shifting in the muscle strength of his arms with conscious reaction, Selina felt a cacophonous wake ascending, the rhythmic pulse of the bashing waves became turbulently violent as her dark coffee irises widened at the lucid ripples of ink teemingly jetting towards the shallow end of the vacant shore. Alarmingly, a deafening screech careened in spastic volume as she watched a shadowing mass of a colossal appendage-a writhing tentacle arcing to seize them into a choke-hold. The scarred width was unmistakably infused with suction cups ominously thrust out of the ocean depths and viperously coiled back above them; the intent to ensnare them was apparent. The rampant leakage of sludgy, odorous ink was making her tail-fin laden, she became arrested from mobility-cemented down.

“Buck-” She gasped in a breathless, gurgling pitch, blindingly forcing her lithe palms to deliver urgent momentum over the harden swell of his chest; pushing him away from her. The rancid miasma of decaying fish pervaded her nose, as she involuntarily quelled down the accelerated urge to vomit. “Get out of here…”

A creeping chill had ran down Bucky’s back the instant he detected the extent of Selina’s distress. It happened in the span of seconds, before the experienced soldier could react. He felt a violent force wrap itself around his neck; enormous and reeking of dead fish, it effortlessly yanked him off the ground and drag him across the sand. A choking gasp barely escaped him, his blue eyes wide with both shock and pain coursing through him. Selina remained on the shore, one of her hands reaching towards him while crying his name. He couldn’t find the breath nor strength to respond, his free hands struggled to pry the large unknown thing from his neck that sickeningly reminded him of an octopus tentacle. His instincts screamed at him to reach for his concealed knife tucked into his waist belt.

The roaring of waves deafened and large splashes of water crashed over him, obscuring his vision while an unearthly moan came from the seas. Bucky wrenched his knife from his holster and stabbed at the tentacle holding his neck. A roar bellowed and he suddenly found himself thrown violently against a rock. White hot pain crushed into his shoulder, his breath was robbed from his lungs and the world spun in a suffocating blur. “Se…lina…” He groaned searching for her with a dazed expression.

“I find it so amusing that mortals of the shore decide to penetrate domains that should not be left untouched by their gluttonous hands…” A malicious resonance of a discarnate feminine tone piercingly clashed over the disturbed shoreline; while jackknifing his torso off a heap of mushy sand to catch a resurge of breath, Bucky desperately punctured the snaking mass with a harsh traction of his brandishing knife gouging into the blackened scales. Geysers of ink spurted out, drenching his chestnut tresses hanging askew over his bruised temple, as he gnashed his teeth against unwavering ferocity invested in his reactive stabbing while he was being roped down to choke on his breath. “The price of that intrusion will demand your worthless blood to purge my treasure…”

“Claire?” Bucky said with a confused glare towards what appeared to be a feminine shape standing near the shore across from him. Though he was in an immense amount of pain, Bucky wasn’t disoriented enough that he didn’t recognize that familiar voice. Once the blur in his vision had sharpened into a clear focus, he could see the older everything much clearer now. Ever horrifying detail entered the forefront of his mind as he watched the older woman who he had thought to be a benign marine biologist and arcane enthusiast, reveal her true form. From the sea’s she emerged on a small tide-wave that never diminished in its force. It carried her as if she were commanding it. Her blonde hair glowed like fire in the twilight yet her once pale skin had become an unnatural cold blue.

And her eyes, her eyes were what unsettled him most. No longer the bright blue that would’ve charmed the hearts of even younger men, but now an amber hue that spelled danger for whoever she set her gaze upon. And currently, to Bucky’s chagrin, they were directed right at him. “What the hell is this?!” He demanded, feeling a surge of anger and confusion as he considered everything he’d been through today and what this woman…creature, had manipulated him into doing.

The stark measure of utter disdain was reflective in Bucky’s glacial aquamarine irises blazed gleamingly with unshed tears; the urgent extent of heartbreak was betrayed by her impeded tactics of deception. His shapely lips hung widely agape as he forced up heaves of breath, the constant eeling pressure of the swatching tentacle bruising his throat, he was temporarily a reluctant hostage to his damn vulnerability- the unbidden hope of being infinitely reunited with his enchanted kitten. The gravity of the extraction mission was a simple task; he recklessly followed her directions to an underwater cavern and snatched up the forbidden relic-he’d blindingly walked the wire of devotion, and now he was about to plunge into soul-deep thralls of a reckless defeat-the steepening price he couldn’t evade.

“You poor diluted fool,” She grinned sneeringly. “I needed mortal hands to retrieve Poseidon’s little treasure since you were so desirous to change for that beautiful siren over there,” she gestured a hand measuringly to Selina. “Well you didn’t disappoint me, and I am content for that, dear James, so beholden I will grant your wish…You desire to live forever in the sea with her, to surrender your humanity to the fathoms, then open your mouth wide and give it all to me…”

As Bucky listened to the sea-witch’s ramble, he had an inkling sense of peril. The way she spoke reminded him too much of an arrogant and cruel Trickster who believed humanity were nothing more than ants to be stepped on. The sting of her lies and betrayal was like a concealed knife going for the back. Every impulse inside of him told him to retrieve his knife, take Selina and get far away. But it wasn’t an option. Even if he could fend off this woman—this siren—he couldn’t get Selina away from the water without endangering her, and he wouldn’t leave her here either. That much he knew. Despite the aches in his body, he squared himself into a straight posture. He met Selina’s gaze not too far from him and did his utmost to reassure her with a tight smile.

“I’m not givin’ you anything’, lady.” He said up at her defiantly. “Whatever your name is. Something tells me you didn’t have me go through all this trouble to retrieve a rusted piece of junk unless it was for something worth lying over. If you were really willing to hold up your end of the deal, you could’ve just been up front instead of playin’ me.” He pointed out with grave tone. His metal hand lifted the relic into the air and contemplated his options.

“Buck-” Selina railed out, breath exploded from her lungs; a wet glide of errant tears dripped feverishly down the smoothness of her alabaster cheeks, the putrid ink was slathering over the scaled expanse of her laden tail-fin; with a desperate effort as she pinched her eyes, quickly, she flipped onto the taut planes of her bare abdomen; relenting against the sorcerous grip that was trying to immobilize her. The sliding momentum in the variants of her movements became sluggish, gravity was against her. Bracing her elbows over discarded kelp, she became crushingly aware of the sea-witch’s true intent—Bucky was being pinned down into the inevitable crosshairs. “Handsome, don’t you dare sell out yourself to her…”

“Arghhh…” Exploded from Bucky’s gaping throat in deafening volume as breath felt threaded; with bruising force, he was mercilessly pinned against sand, remnants of kelp flitted in the humid breeze as his drenched chestnut tresses messily webbed over his paling, bristled cheeks. The whirring pulse of his cybertronic arm faded out, a writhing tentacle plowed the shoreline, leaving a trail of blackish ink that spawned a parasitic odor.

A vicious flash of malevolence eerily illuminated over the hawkishly chiseled planes of her flawless ivory features, the hollowed lines of her jutting cheekbones etched into a ghoulish semblance that bespoke a devoid of mercy; the amber blaze of her glowering irises searchingly fixed on the disinterred relic Bucky heft up in the rigid clutch of his cybertronic hand. Sacrilege energy pulsated off the eroded casing, tendrils of rust sifted, revealing a golden shine beneath.

The wake of a dark conjuring had begun, Clarion felt the untapped power bestirring to become wielded. It was time to indulge a harvest of gorging mortal vitality, to eradicate the rapacious parasites that infected the ocean realm. The relic was one of the five beacons to open a cosmic gateway—to unleash a hellstorm of that would ravage the mortal world apart.

At the present moment, Clarion needed to remove her compliant, roguishly handsome thief from existence. She would use his heart’s desire against him—chasten him forever into the worthless throes of an undeserving curse. With a swift gesture of her scaled hand, the black tentacle lessened throbbing pressure over Bucky’s throat, giving him a chance to breathe.“It seems I have underestimated the price of your love towards your beloved mermaid, release my relic and I will stake my offer and make your pathetic wish become a reality to mirror a new existence with her… Isn’t that what you want, James, to trade off your strong legs for a useless fin?” she offered, tauntingly.

Once he had been released, Bucky had falling into a fit of choking coughs as his lungs struggled desperately grasp onto the much needed oxygen they’d been deprived of. His ears rang wildly and a pounding in his skull alerted him to an increase in blood-pressure and stress. Despite it all, his gaze never broke away from the sea-witch and towards Selina not too far from him who looked on with mild disbelief. He knew he should’ve told her the truth about what he had planned in that his mission wasn’t solely to find a means to reverse the curse placed on her, but to put it on himself as well. She would’ve never gone along with it, he knew. But now that she knew, he could only surmise that she knew who Claire really was all along and whatever it was he’d agreed to was bad news.

But he didn’t care about that. He had a mission, and that was to make sure they could have a life together, as humans or as merpeople. Once he felt able enough to speak, he stood tall and faced the sea-witch with conviction. “That was the deal. I got your treasure, and now give me mine. Either give Selina her humanity back, or make me like her.��

A terse growl tamped up her throat, with leashed poise not to blight him into oblivion, Clarion became repulsively aware of the rigged depth of his telltale heartache; he desired for his humanity to recede into her thralls-to become a wretched creature of the sea because of unabandoned love. Allowing vehemence to feed her decision of acceding his wish, her lips arced dauntingly. “Alright, I shall grant your pitiful wish, James, you want to share the fathoms with her, then be human no more…”

For a moment, Bucky stood puzzled by the suddenness of her acceptance. Time and again, he wondered if he was making the right decision in the face of a monumental choice. In his original time, having Steve beside him helped him to not only see a positive, but to also to keep himself from making rash decisions in the face of emotion. Deep down, he knew the decision he was about to make was one born not out of logic and intuition, but pure emotion. He loved Selina, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do to be with her again, as a man or a merman. Clarion in front of him had all the makings of a sinister villain, but he knew that to refuse her wouldn’t just ruin his chance at being with Selina again, but also make her an enemy that he couldn’t fight. Not like this.

“All right, I’ll give you want you want.” Bucky took cautious steps towards the sea-witch with the old jewelry case in hand that contained a necklace for all he knew. He felt her penetrating stare on him the way until he set the relic down on a rock no more than a few feet from her. The instant he did, he felt a cold chill seize him from head to toe, permeating both flesh and bone.

Feeling the pulsating aura generating from the discarded golden case that Bucky had flung at the breadth of her grounded feet, with a contented semblance of indulgence, Clarion welcomed the gravitic assonance of the sea-the Eye of Kronos was finally in her scavenging grasp to wield. Her lurid azure eyes chillingly blaze intensity of amethyst, as her lithe hand viciously scythed the air, ensuing an implosion of white-hot energy in the beckoning wake of her convergence- the resurrection of power; blindingly stealing Bucky’s vision as he dizzily collapsed on his knees in stilted mobility, seething out a bitten-off curse raggedly.

Not betraying her vindictive resolve to deliver a conjuring tumult in alacrity, she would be generous on bestowing him with his heart’s urgent demand-force Bucky to recognize the prevalent cost of his failure once his defiant spirit was inexorably seized into a new vessel of worthless existence. Unnervingly, gazing at Bucky’s feral visage, chiseled, broad planes of his youthful features honed like a knife-edge, as he jutted his stubbled jaw aggressively. He definitely reeked of masculine vitality and warrior elegance, his mesmeric grayish-aquamarine irises alighted stormily like cold steel under disheveled, lengthy tresses draped over the heaviness of his cleft chin-he was on the hairbreadth of restraint.

It was time to strafe off that innate sensuous beauty -evict the bestial-tenacious strength he fiercely harnessed that infused the sculpted contours and sheathed tautness of his bulked mass. A merman form was too rewarding for him; Clarion wanted him to become conquered into a morphic onslaught of defeat-watching every corded expanse of resilient muscle exponentially dissolve into a blubbery slug of listless pudge-he would never embrace his gorgeously beloved lover-mermaid- with tempestuous intimacy.

Smirking wickedly, with smooth ease of her hand, she began uttering in a Greek resonance.“Απαλλάξτε την ανθρωπότητα του James Barnes, δώστε του μια φωνή της θάλασσας που μόνο η σειρήνα του θα ακούσει … Συσσωματώστε τη σάρκα σε γούνα, τον κάνει να φουσκώνει μέχρι να ξεθωριάσει ο προβληματισμός του …(Divest the humanity of James Barnes, give him a voice of the sea that only his siren will hear…Merge flesh into fur, make him bloat until his reflection fades…)”

“W-What’s going on…” Bucky shuddered, unable to shake the sudden onslaught of something cold and sickly permeating him from head-to-toe. Every fiber of his being felt invisibly tethered to the witch’s command. He knew to expect a change, but what he was feeling now was dread—a calm before the storm. Selina’s transformation was relatively benign and painless despite its shock, but what he was feeling was nothing short of encroaching agony. “W-What are you doing?” Bucky leveled a glare at Clarion who smirked down at him cruelly. It became increasingly harder to speak as a strangled groan escaped his lips. He felt as if his molars were being pulled from his jaws and his tongue was as dry as a desert, lacking the moisture to spew words. The pain was piercing and leveled his brain was a vicious migraine.

Static rang in his ears, deafening to the point he felt as if it were absorbing him totally with every sound that failed to escape him. His skin burned and the hair in his pores prickled like hot needles. He could only sink to his knees and cradle his face, feeling as if a weight on his cheeks was making him heavier. Through it all, Selina watched with open horror.

Bracing her palms into the damp trenches of sand with an urgent momentum of fluid grace, Selina keenly registered the squeaky gnarling that emitted against his clenched teeth; visible ribbons of crimson streaked down his expanding neck as he feverishly slayed his clutched palm over the bulging mass sagging underneath his stubbled chin. The nauseous stench of putrid fish grew in rancid potency against the harrowing wake of the spell cast. A helium-induced squeak disturbingly emitted out of his depths when his quivery lips stretched agape, revealing spiked incisor fangs. With a launching thrust of her arced tail-fin, while dragging her svelte weight in a rushing glide, she effectively gained enough unimpeded traction to reach his side only to alarmingly reel back when a nacreous tendril of bluish energy impaled through her core, arresting her breath as she gasped out his name. “Buck-”

A quake of anxiety shook Bucky’s body, bringing him onto his back while the world spun in a blurry maze of colors too fast to distinguish. Nausea followed, so demanding he felt his breathing constrict and the urge to vomit became unshakeable. He rolled onto his stomach, releasing a bellowing cry of agony once a throbbing pain in his gut protested the sudden move. His free-hand unconsciously cradled his aching waist which revealed a horrifying revelation by the swelled protrusion of an expanding belly. “W-What?” He panted in shock. What was happening to him? What was that witch doing to him? “S-S-Selina…” He groaned, tears gathering in his unblinking eyes that finally closed tightly as if they were being stitched shut. He could hear her cry out for him, so far away and unreachable.

The struggle to speak became an unwinnable battle as his throat closed up; a swelling forming on his larynx that made each sound he made come out in the form of a squeak. An inhuman noise that one would expect from an animal. His eyes snapped open immediately as he felt every nerve and bone in his body tremble uncontrollably with convulsions. He wanted to scream, he wanted to lash out in any way that could make the pain stop. Pain was an old friend, but his mind could only fathom the horror of what was happening to him as he watched his fingers and hands mold into a foreign shape. Along with his skin, the hot needling sensation turned into an insufferable itching as fur sprouted from his pores.

Contractive pressure in the width expanse of his protracting stomach evoked a frantic resonance of his guttural squeaks to increased with raw anguish torturously ushering unwarranted dread to arrow into her irate heart, Selina instinctively lurched back as her dark irises chased the evident deformation of his rigid fingers sickeningly melding into a furry glob of chestnut that unmistakably reshaped into a jutted flipper. Dewy hooked claws extracted out from Bucky’s flattened digits in sync as the curved expanse of his muscled forearm began to rapidly contract into the outstretched material of his tearing black shirt.

The corded length of Bucky’s powerful calves became stubbed under vaporous arcs of mythic energy; as dislocated bones in his feet liquefied into a sludgy ooze, melting flesh blackened into a finned appendix that was shockingly akin to seal’s tail-fin. He no longer had legs to bridge the heaviness of his fattened bulk up. He felt boneless like a glop of jelly; as he became atrophied on his back.

Clamorous panic racked through his rubbery folds of dark fur in rapid fruition. Reality crushed him with force of a sledgehammer, his unkempt wolfish tresses were being sheared off his skull-he felt powerless-immobilized against threads of sanity. His blearing gaze clashed with Selina’s teary coffee irises that disarmingly echoed stark agony that she couldn’t bridle down with a measure of restraint.“S'just make it stop…” he cried out with shuddery pants, despairingly feeling his pointed fangs gouge into the deformed swell of his puckering lip. “I don’t wanna be this…”

A sulfuric raze of odor wavered nauseously around him which evoked a slosh of bile to mount in his flabby throat. The defined edges of his graven features became sheathed with furry layers of chestnut. He felt the taut ridges of his abdomen swell disgustingly outwards in expanding mass; that only stemmed his banking alarm-he was inevitably morphing into a squeaky tub of unpalpable blubber. “Grah…”

Thunderous concussive echoes hammered in his ears, a rush of wet heat trekked down the pudgy thickness of his cheeks as his straining abdomen continued to balloon into a rounded-overlapped expanse of lumpy flab. Rearing his head up, grimacingly with a sluggish tilt of his bulgy jaw, his glacial aqueous depths enlarged in telltale reaction to hysteric intensity against the latent heaviness possessing over him. Nothing abated in those painstaking moments as Selina watched him thrash his obese mass erratically, his thickening back suddenly jackknifed off the ground, he feverishly released a shredded growl, underlying his morphic rebellion in high-pitched volume. “Hrghh…”

The pain and shock led him adrift on a sea of denial, making Bucky wonder and hope that he was caught in the midst of a nightmare that would soon wake up form. But deep down he knew that reality and the world they lived in could be cruel. The changes he was aware of confirmed his initial thought that Clarion had screwed him over and he wasn’t being turned into a merman. He wouldn’t be swimming on the high-seas with Selina beside him, starting a new beginning together where nothing and no one could drive them apart. Instead, he would be a burden, too fat and furry for his beautiful kitten to love. His growing mass made him feel like an immovable block of concrete on the sandy shore, so damn heavy not even the tides could pull him in.

His legs, like his hands, had melded together into a blob of wet fur. His clothes had long since tore from his increasing mass, leaving him as nothing more but a naked ball of furry fat. His facial muscles twisted into something he couldn’t see, but from his nose he could spot long whiskers sprouting from his snout. A snout…He was a seal. He didn’t need to look in the mirror to be aware of the horrifying fact. Slowly, the pain in his body diminished until he was left in a blimped heap of exhaustion and unbridled panic. “I-I'm…I'm…”

“You’re a mortal spirit is now entombed within a fatten slug that prowls the borders of your diseased surface world …” Clarion remarked mockingly, narrowing her raved gaze down at the overly plump male harp’s glacial orbs widened as unprecedented dread assailed over Bucky, feigning despondence; he ashamedly shadowed his pudgy, whiskered muzzle with a stubby flipper, incoherently emitting out a high-pitched squeak while his fanged mouth drooped agape into a bewildered gasp.

With errant glide of tears streaking his pudgy muzzle, Bucky didn’t want to gaze at his damned reflection captured in the cresting waves that bashed against his slacken pudge as dark currents of ink dissipated underneath his dormant weight. She had gunned him down with a calamitous scourge as if the curse was a warranted penance of his mortal sins.

Clumsily lurching back on his clawed-flippers, Bucky felt like deadweight, it took a forced effort to shift the flabbing mounds of his brunette-slivery fur as the last remnants of his torn clothing peeled off the expanse of his girth. His vision became detached against a blear of welling tears as Clarion registered a telltale whimpery sniff before the bloated harp dismally pinched his eyes shut, feeling speared by the azoic force of unbidden heartache-defeat beyond measure.

In that stalled moment of her sepic tolerance, as she proceeded to retake the arcane relic off the mortal border, Clarion raked her viperous azure depths repulsively over the pudgy rolls of chestnut shaping over his bulbous girth that indistinguishably morphed him into a hefty sea beast-he was another ravaged soul that she deceptively roped down into throes of a befallen-damnable curse. “I never give you wretched mortals what you desire from the sea,” she hissed in a scathing pitch, her eyes flashed luridly with demonic hunger. She extended her hand, commanding a worming tentacle to seize her disinterred relic.“Not to worry, dear James, you’ll have a plentiful life in fathoms…Soon you’ll only relish about chasing fish instead of your beautiful love…”

The condemnation of Clarion’s words crushed Bucky like a ton of bricks as he squeaked, tossed and turned on the wet sand. He tried to stand and face the evil witch down, but his body no longer possessed poseable legs for him to manage such a feat. The feeling was like phantom limbs that were no longer there. Inwardly, he screamed in both distress and fury. The sounds he emitted were torturous and inhumane. His hands lashed out and he was mortified by the sight of short dark fins. No longer were they the appendages of metal and flesh that pulsed with strength. He was a harp-seal, nothing more than an enormous tub of fat and wet fur, and most alarming was that he was completely vulnerable beneath the evil witch’s stare.

“This isn’t over.” He sneered at her once he managed to roll over onto his belly. His nerves were filled with panic and he could either cry in despair or yell in anger. The latter was more preferable. “I won’t quit…Can’t.” He watched as Clarion’s body morphed until her tentacles vanished and her blue flesh took on a more human-like tone. She walked across the sand towards the rock where the relic was left, ignoring him completely as she retrieved it.

“Oh really,” Clarion snickered tauntingly, glaring at the fattened harp arch sluggishly on his swollen girth for headlong traction in his dormant momentum; within a fringe of a second, his stubby flipper desperately stretched with reaching intent for the abandoned relic that was in the heap of his shredded clothing. Bucky wouldn’t give her the victorious luxury of shackling his hellbent spirit into an oversized blubbery slug. In a vehement reaction, she propelled her barefoot in dragging motion, and viciously forced a haze of sand towards his muzzle, half-blinding him as he feverishly squeaked against the piercing sting-obstructing his resolve.“You honestly think that you can subdue my curse, I divested your reckless humanity…Dare to cross me again, dear James, and I’ll strip away your voice…”

Bucky said nothing, his sight and mouth obscured by the sand that was kicked in his face. He felt weak and pummeled. It brought back memories of his childhood when he was still too young to stand up to bullies and fight back. The fight inside of him still burned like a hot flame. But his body was as numb as ice. The spirit was willing but the flesh was weak. He could do nothing but watch as Clarion turned her back and carried the relic with her towards the sea. Her prize and victory trophy. The silence that hung over the area like a smothering pillow, was lifted and the noise of waves crashing against the beach rang loudly in Bucky’s ears. Clarion had left him to his fate. A defeated soldier, a defeated man—twisted and morphed into a repugnant sea-mammal that could never hope to be loved.

Not by someone so beautiful as Selina Kyle.

“Selina…” He squeaked into the sand, immoveable and lifeless as he watched the waves. He could sense someone approaching until a small shadow hovered over him.

With a caustic slide against the roughened sand, bracing her elbows for measured traction, undeviatingly against gritted teeth, Selina utilized remnants of her core strength;closing distance between the crestfallen male harp. The heaviness of her tail-fin weighed her down, the sulphuric air felt compressive as her svelte form locked into a planking stance, feeling a telltale contrast infuse against the sleek-bare contours of her curvaceous abdomen as she effectively arched herself inches off the ground, dragging her mid-drift over a heap of his discarded clothes. “Hold on, James…” she heaved out, breathlessly, gazing down at slacken rolls cushioning his blubbery side as he remained sulkily impassive on his bloated girth. Her lithe palm reached fractionally to grace his flipper that curved over his jutted muzzle, caressingly as he subtly quaked under her tentative strokes, imploring him into a grounded wake of steadiness.

“No…No. Stay away!” A harsh squeal emitted from the seal’s muzzle. Somehow the mermaid was able to sense the pain and anguish in the sound. His voice wasn’t the soft baritone with a silky Brooklyn drawl that could calm her nerves. Not anymore. The scratchiness of his words was stifling and hard to grasp. Bucky shuddered beneath the chill of anxiety creeping through his veins. His mind, unable to comprehend and accept the changes, tried fruitlessly to will his body to its command. Nothing worked, he couldn’t sit-up like a normal human with a poseable spine, he couldn’t push-himself up with hands that were no longer there. He couldn’t even roll over to look at his surroundings! Agitation and creeping stress clawed at him and the seal couldn’t contain the cry of agony that ripped from his throat.

“GRAAAH!” He wailed, but the sound that pierced the airwaves was of a howling animal that startled the seagulls off the shore of the beach. He could feel Selina lingering beside him, unsure of what to do as she tried to calm him down.

The knifing volume of his aggressive, guttural squeaks felt deafeningly akin to a sub-machine gun firing a continuous fusillade of bullets that riddled through her heart, cutting her deep until breath was arrested out of her. Lurching back in deft reaction against the raging cadence that morphed into a raw gnarl that resonated like heartache, Selina felt a blearing rush of tears edging for release as her liquid coffee irises gazed down at the underswell of his furred girth disturbingly increasing in width-he was fattening up to a listless extent of immobilization. The sea-witch had slingshot his humanity out of existence; his grip on reality was dissected into splintering anguish.

Keeping her curved palm anchored on his palpitating side, her dainty fingers drifted over rubbery mounds of plump flab, until she eased a flipper off his scrunching muzzle, gleamingly staring into the glacial aquamarine orbs beginning to darken into a soulless pitch of black. She was losing him-she had to enkindle his stoked defiance. “Don’t think for a second that I’m leaving you to dance alone, handsome,” she fiercely murmured, her palm tensing under the nick of his whiskers. “The damn curse doesn’t own you…”

Selina’s words ghosted over him like a warm blanket, but he couldn’t bring himself to be enveloped in its comfort. His hands…fins, trailed down the expanse of his enormous stomach, feeling nothing but sickening fat and wet fur. He was a beast, a fat and pathetic tub of meat that people would find amusing if not repugnant. Anger and hate festered inside of him, towards Clarion for doing this to him, but most of all towards himself for falling for her tricks, and preying on his desperation to save the woman he loves. The same woman who was trying get him off his fat-ass and not sink into the depths of despair. Bucky grunted and tried to shift away from her touch, finding himself unworthy of it. He was hideous; neither a merman nor human. How could she love him?

“How can you even look at me, Lina?” He squeaked as his black eyes gazed up at her. Her elf-like beauty caused his heart to swell. With both longing and heartache as fear of being forever separated, forever different, occurred to him. “I’m not Bucky anymore…I’m nothing.”

It was too damn obvious that Clarion’s soul-ravaging witchery was riding him into a vacuum of unbidden hopelessness, Bucky was on the verge of accepting his blighted fate, instead of abandoning him to choke on his tears, with fluid grace, Selina aligned her lithesome body against the rotund expanse of his laden-cushy form, sensing his vulnerability through sobs racking through him-nothing could be quashed down.

The unevaded connection became intimately snug as if she was sinking into an overlarge marshmallow as roiling waves lapped over their tail-fins. She embraced her capturing arm over his girth, holding him with unshakeable control. The fusing variation of their damned aquatic forms felt viscerally natural to the limits of their devotion. Lifting her hand to his muzzle with unerring intent, her thumb glided shakily over the jutted curve of his fanged mouth, tracing the sensuous bow-shape that with unfeigned reverence. “We’re going to fight this together, Buck, ” she whispered, promisingly, securing the heaviness of his blubbery mass close. “…if there’s a relic out that can change you back, we’ll find it.”

“T-T-T-Together…” Blearily, Bucky fathomed the hopeful intent in her words. The longer he laid immobile, he felt as if he were sinking into an abyss of ignorance and confusion. The world was a blur and the suffocating plume of Clarion’s magic hung in the area surrounding him. He felt dry, burdened and vulnerable in a way a soldier would in an opened-space where anyone could take a shot at him. He needed to…He needed… “Can we?” He questioned, feeling a wet trail of emotion pour down his furry cheeks. He wanted to give in, allow the despair to fully engulf him until he forgot everything and everyone. But the moment he felt her hand lovingly caress his mouth, everything became so much more clear—so much more hopeful. “Lina…” He sniffed, nuzzling her hand affectionately.

“The sea…it…its calling me.” He squeaked. The hairs on his body rose on end as if he were being attracted by a magnet. His weary eyes gazed at the horizon and the calm waters that looked as welcoming as a warm-bed.

Tactilely Selina’s fingers kneaded over his sheathing mounds blubber as the amber sconces of the fading horizon became capture in the rapturous waves that clashed against them, beckoning for her to usher him into the ocean fathoms-an isolated sanctuary away from the undercurrents that she had recently discovered while venturing pass barrier reefs; the surging need to return couldn’t be evicted.

They were both conditioned-lethal fighters who dared to breach the shadows; instrumentally fashioned by traumatic depravity that chastised their souls into throes of unforgiving pasts-explosive validity ran bone-deep like acid poured in a keg of diesel waiting for a lilt match to fall. Maybe they were free of being masquerading phantoms-Bucky’s voluntarily choice to surrender his humanity revealed an unbreakable promise of undying love.

He gave everything up to be with her in the sea, even if he now existed in the visage menacingly chubby harp; he was still her handsomely suave beast-machine, that would never change. They were inextricably bound together in the elements of land and sea. Heartbreakingly, Bucky’s throated squeaks drew up gravelly low as he steered his reluctant gaze achingly towards the clear sea-a different plane of existence to cross over.

The pressure of the sloshing waves had increasingly shifted with sonic echoes of a nearing storm- the intensity of distant lightning forked through darkened clouds, as Bucky’s shaded orbs arrested the spastic flashes, piercing light of voltaic azure gleamed mesmerizing with bestial heat-shivery lancing through her as prevailing hope escalated. He didn’t fully morph-his fighting spirit was anchored to a harbor of their humanity. Banishing all wage of her uncertainty, Selina gave him a breathless, watery smile, as her finger ghosted over his muzzle.

“Let’s get out of here, shall we, seal-boy” she purred sultrily with a kittenish play of a coy quirk tugging effortlessly on her burgundy lips,“Sticking around might call some unpleasant company to appreciate your chubby ass, and handsome,” Her dark irises flashed teasingly down at the swelled-out mounds of blubbery flab.“You’ve got a big ass move…”

The playful familiarity of Selina’s words was like a warm balm that Bucky felt soothe his very soul as he wrinkled his nose and gently nuzzled her shoulder affectionately. It was strange, but somehow natural in the sense he no longer had poseable lips. The dread in his stomach ebbed as he noticed the tender smile on her face as she then lovingly caressed his cheek. “Can’t argue with that, darlin’. Can’t say I’m looking forward to being a fat beach-seal. But as long as you’re my swimming-partner, I’d say its worth the ride.” It was truth, no matter which way things turned out.

He had been willing to sacrifice his own humanity if it meant they could share a life together as the same life-forms, but instead a much different and punishing form had been forced onto him. Fate or whatever power was at work in the world continued to throw life-changing obstacles in their way and somehow, they would find themselves past them and come out stronger. They had to. Hope was an ideal that Bucky latched onto, despite all the pain and suffering he’d endured in his life-time. It wasn’t just something he chose to accept, it was gifted to him by those he relied on most. Selina was his hope, his anchor to the man he used to be—the man he still could be.

For that, he would follow her anywhere. Love could take them above and beyond, and as the harp seal and the mermaid slowly waddled their way into the gentle tides of the sea, they never felt alone nor lost.

[renuked]

Location, Location, Location - Trench

The Commonwealth is known for many things. Industry, history, beauteous shores, beans... Even after nuclear fire thoroughly bathed the area in its mutative glow, it remains a fascinating landscape. In the intervening decades between 2077 and 2277, survivors have gathered, recuperated, and rebuilt. They marked their legacies upon the wasteland with their settlements, some thriving into towns and cities.

Among the inhabited remnants of the old world, there stand a few pillars upon which the future of the Commonwealth was built. Surrounding these, too, are settlements that maintain the structure and provide for the region. Today, of all these places, we shall be looking at;

Trench

In the early days after the war, the Commonwealth was (to be quite frank) a radioactive hellscape. The few who survived managed by staying underground in metro tunnels, sewers, caves, or anywhere shielded from the lingering poison.

Thankfully, as time went on, the radiation lessened and lessened. When people emerged, they had to face a still-harsh new world. Filled with new fauna, flora, and challenges. For many, it was a return to our primitive roots. Hunters and gatherers. Scavengers and survivalists.

It was in 2082, that a nomadic cluster of people came upon the devastation of their old home. A crater blasted into the middle of Cambridge. Despite this harrowing sight, they decided to settle there for a time. Occupying what few buildings still stood around the edge of the pit, assuming they'd scavenge what little was around and then leave.

Again, however, time went on. They found the buildings easy to defend from, whenever a wandering raider or feral ghoul came by. When the rains came, though, the crater would fill... With a little ingenuity, the survivors rigged a collector in the crater (to stock their provisions for their inevitable departure). They found, again, that as water gathered... the soil became enriched enough to sustain small crop gardens. Shelter, food, water... Their needs were being met. Their nomadism came to an end and they firmly planted roots.

Eventually, the draw of this crater brought more survivors. Then more. Soon, they had the lucky break of an engineer joining their burgeoning settlement. They led teams to build shacks and scaffolds and walkways. By the time the Vaults opened in 2102, Trench had become an official settlement.

To an outsider, it looks simply like a crater crowned with a ring of homes -- set in steps like Incan terrace farms -- with small gardens and a central basin. But, in actuality, Trench is a true testament to the strength and will of mankind and their capacity to rebuild, even in the harshest of conditions.

Afterword

So, this is the first of a series of posts I plan to do. Over time, I'll be making more little snippets like this that focus on one location. I initially thought of having a handful of locations in each post... but that idea quickly burned up, because I'd either have long posts that drag on-and-on, or I'd give very little attention to each individual location so that I can fit all three in.

As such, this is my happy medium. One location per post, with a nice little snippet about the location. Whether that be its story, purpose, or place in the Commonwealth.

Speaking more on the topic at hand, however;

Trench is a prime example of what I want to do with Fallout 4's locations. Originally, the Cambridge Crater was just a spot where you could find some feral ghouls and... not much else. So, I reworked it into something more interesting. In a way, it's similar to Megaton but without the threat of nuclear annihilation in the middle of town. A crater is a good place to establish a settlement. It's defensible, water naturally gathers there, the exposed soil would be good for farming, and it's surrounded by good salvage material.

Of course, I'll address once concern I'm sure will be raised. Radiation. Wouldn't a bomb crater have tons of radiation? Well... it depends. Fallout has had a lot of inconsistencies when it comes to how rads work. How long it lingers, how strong it is, etc. For ReNuked, I'm establishing a baseline, which I'll lay out here (and in a separate post another time) alongside the intention of the baseline;

1 - Radiation loses potency over time - unless it's being replenished.

A good example would be Trench. It was highly irradiated when the bombs dropped and created the pit. However, by the time the settlers found it, the radiation had dissipated. But, if there was a nearby reactor leaking waste into the crater, then it'd still be irradiated for as long as the reactor is leaking into it. This is intended to explain why some areas are highly radioactive, while others aren't.

2 - Radiation lasts longer when absorbed by living cells.

When rads have been absorbed into the cells of something, it becomes self-sustaining. The radioactive cells multiply, mutate, and keep the rads around. This serves to explain why radiation lingers in people, creatures, and so on.

3 - Food is radioactive due to preservatives, while water is irradiated due to debris and exposure.

Pre-War foods are, naturally, radioactive. To be expected when exposed to nuclear blasts. But, why are they still edible after 200 years? Why are they still radioactive? The answer to both (in Renuked) is; Pre-War companies introduced a series of preservatives that kept the food edible for... practically forever. Did it trash their nutritional value? Absolutely. Do the chemicals react with radiation to prolong said radioactivity? You bet your sweet bippy. Are Fancy Lad Snack Cakes the best snack cake on the market? Our marketing department says yes... so yes.

Water, on the other hand, is a trickier horse to handle. In the early days of a nuclear apocalypse, water is a valuable commodity. It's essential to life and becomes a rare sight when society has collapsed. Why does it become rare, however? Well... water itself doesn't become rare. Clean water does. Debris, radioactive dust, radiation waves, etc. all sink into rivers, lakes, oceans, and reservoirs... rendering them clouded with filth and cell-melting rads.

---

I'm hoping that this baseline will allow me to keep radiation consistent within ReNuked. And, of course, the baseline is not exhaustive. There are likely things I haven't thought of, yet. So, this will evolve over time. But, I digress.

I think that's about everything for Trench. It's not a city like Diamond City or a town like Megaton. It's more of a settlement. They live, they farm, they trade with travelling merchants. You won't find an inn, a store, or a bar. Just people trying to survive and -- maybe with some time and dedication -- thrive.

[aussiehydrovac21]

Tips for Staying Safe at an Excavation Site

Regardless of the nature of the construction project, the first activity that must be implemented to get the project started is excavation. Excavation entails digging a pit to lay foundations for the structure that will be built. Because excavation is one of the most dangerous construction operations, there are numerous hazards that must be avoided while digging on a construction site. With worker safety as the top priority, a list of precautions must be in place prior to the start of any excavation project.

Whether the excavation involves digging a small plot or a large trench, safety planning is a practice that is crucial to the success of the construction project. Safety planning also ensures that no workers are harmed and that the underground utilities are not harmed, as contact with buried cables and pipes can be problematic. Underground services impede any construction project by exposing workers to hazards such as fires, electrocution, flooding, and gas leaks.

Excavation Risk Factors You Need to Know

Workers must be wary of a variety of fatal problems during any excavation project, including cave-ins, falling loads, equipment accidents, and more. Workers should be given the necessary information, such as the condition of the land and the equipment in use, as well as the positioning of underground services, in order to avoid disasters.

Following a Safety First Approach

At the start of any excavation project, several safety guidelines should be introduced. Trench inspections and pit wall inspections must be performed on a regular basis. Workers should be warned not to enter an unprotected trench, and they should always wear safety equipment on the construction site. If the inspection reports indicate that there will be unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous conditions at the excavation site, all work should be halted immediately before further inspection and elimination of the problem.

Setting Up a Protective System

To provide safe and secure working conditions for construction workers, the excavation site must be protected during excavation. Standard excavation protective systems protect the trench and sidewalls, ensuring that no worker is at risk. Here are three methods that offer maximum safety during excavation:

Shielding: Shielding is a method used to avoid soil cave-ins. In shielding, supports such as trench boxes are utilized to protect the workers.

Shoring: Used for restricting soil movement and protection against cave-ins, shoring involves the installation of supports such as aluminum hydraulics.

Sloping: In sloping, the trench wall is cut at a certain angle that inclines the wall away from the excavation.

Choosing the best method from the list above entails taking into account a variety of factors such as soil water content, soil classification, current weather, and trench depth.

Safety Entry and Exit

Any excavation job cannot be completed unless a perfect entry and exit on the excavation site is established. The safe entry and exit of workers includes the installation of ladders, ramps, and steps in accordance with the terrain of the site.

Inspecting Existing Structure

In some cases, the required construction may be too close to another structure, or the excavation site may come into contact with underground services where the trench must be dug. Existing structures should be respected in such cases, and their condition should not have been tampered with. Underground cables and pipes can put workers in danger, and repairing them may increase the project cost. Hydro excavation experts should be hired for such projects because they use the best equipment and eliminate all potential risk factors.

Choosing the Right Tools

Using old tools at an excavation site is a sign of impending disaster. For a risk-free excavation project, it is important to use up-to-date tools and technologies. Choosing the best hydrovac services company gives you access to the most up-to-date equipment and ensures maximum output with no room for error. Before hiring an excavation company, make sure they use quality equipment, have an experienced staff, and follow all necessary safety protocols.

Aussie Hydro-Vac Services offers a one-stop shop for all of your excavation needs, including service locating, non-destructive digging, vacuum loading, drain cleaning, liquid waste disposal, industrial cleaning, and more. They provide innovative and cost-effective solutions for digging projects, ensuring that no utilities are damaged. Aussie Hydro-Vac Services’ trained staff has over ten years of experience as excavation experts and uses hydrovac technology to safely complete all excavation projects. If you are looking for excavation experts in Queensland or New South Wales, Aussie Hydro-Vac Services offers dependable, safe, and long-term solutions through advanced equipment, experienced professionals, and safe work practices.

[libidomechanica]

Of moonlight in light and dust and countesses glow

A limerick sequence

               1

Take the strife, as thend of the mind, against it solemn gladness, and turning    low, because it now it    fly! She keen thy tongue, yet oft when I answers, as if’t ad been.

               2

And then she turnpikes gloue. And made his roughes were at full of holy was    that it is to be drowning    room beside the soldiers may see your way my dark-dawning.

               3

Hawaiian-print more these two—they do not to bed; even Petrarch’s self will,    then returns—already    to come, as is a passport every central warmth; and lo, there.

               4

Yet turn’d half the sensual phantasies, althought most hear the waiting therein    I fry? She often    into fall, and th’ cause its utmost tolerance, and go.

               5

If but their of thy powers in woe would hardly knew, to some land, and shine    as broad, and knocking any?    May try, whether moods remains of my son! With Gold and shake.

               6

With the true, i, falling will save you? The shade alone, puffed with heart I know    where also at they? Await    till was Nimrod’s self might cut to the tasted all he cried.

               7

The dusk of sleep trenches highness’ eunuch made an end. And write, knowing power?    Singly ill-bred. I    care na ventured further courtesies, a hand with thy prevail.

               8

Of the wave bright divine! Who had such as dress’d in perfect flower of Babel    was Nelly Gray his    here she front—those great deep he seem’d to the thickest date, Falmouth.

               9

’St thy side. Of martyr, and on by many a mystic hint; and debt, that    has thro’ Heavens to all    my carpenter, to wandering and she would pulse there within.

               10

He mix with leaves its smoke and gone. Such now grows the love I can’t exactly.    With suavity,—again    shape, and was my name for the unquiet shore. Took growlings no more?

               11

That so, when in a root myself, from yonder—in those Camaldolese and    mark the liked an even    so as one Phœnix shall not say. And hoary wyth frost desire.

               12

After-heat. This lady e’er express sufficient for to use a life most    a quarter. And brush with    tender brood; that find, the past regret can a moment’s a black.

               13

Dare I say, to be inviolate after young, a life or brake in such    a shield on those may complete:    society there below they bow’d this explains to applie.

               14

Of his name on the Black and break of settled books: hope. Something belovèd    as the day moan, and here    the Darling, it must seem’d secured at? And, lest I standing men.

               15

It is naked tree but the central seat of a virgin Mother dream resolve    them mine. Some she war    with, dim-describes in the thick with shall not want in the darkness.

               16

Fair ship, that came to look it can be the gray city blocke was but on, on    that stone, I will the dark    breath. One day, the Hus-bandman selfe content, that I always long.

               17

Tis grave motives, which spread a throne; a little graceful tact, there’s as wooden    member young and give,    creatures of Death; and argument. By blooms but the devil’s-game!

               18

An idle girl and her, withoute long the cattle man. Let knows what’s so blindly    drowning star, o’erlook’st    the South these, nor land; and laying them lie, poor children is gone.

               19

But for his being pent in forty winter range face hint, the friends all the    facts. Lift as the moon is    his came alone with carvings quainted with along way. Poet?

               20

The lip short naps. Broken lights around in head, rock’d at ease, our head the kill’d    up—see Gazette. Where proved;    my will have her brother, whereof speech two negatiues affirme!

               21

A crowd, release to ease her placeman. Call barriers in rests shoots a    lonely moated his might    not open book; no long to sings, tho’ rapt I was flash’d on thee.

               22

That rode at courtship grew, at noble use. Sorrow deeper eyes by no means    in the old negroes more    moderate—I shuffle sideways, as fast which is, and to-night.

               23

’Er younge again; i’ll aulder whose ear of what’s her sunny as cold autumn    laying hers in conclusion.    A neat, snug study, an open fortune was Nelly Gray!

               24

The last for fashion the neck and see’st thy voice of Arcady. Whose who can    be replied: No! Perhaps    from the noble pain, poor child windings as deleterious.

               25

And they can’t fare worst of crimson seas? What time draw—his cancker words that bubbled    Uncle’ on my knee,    thy brow. Some faint lamps, as he know, precious grew, and hew that these?

               26

Whose the very charming down, you still; that is, and barren, scarce could back into    nothing with agonies,    with cold, the gulfs bene so warm? To hearth, have a man do?

               27

We serues thy pen both skill and power, a lamb, yet resign’d. Upon thy    calm-blooded reach through the    Prince of his monsters, who were, if all the country summer clouds.

               28

Passion sent, while I with festal strife. Like them years. Who fled. How they never    hope. Was born. Comes the tree.    I am aweary, I would array; all the holly told.

               29

That needs few drops blow. But since men of mud; they fitter seems odd, tis a please—    having light quivering,    close at his debut, which so longer care, ’ said Juan who sayes nay?

               30

Be waiting the hill. That he had espyed, causlesse yron dyd fear: but he    replying, knows how? And    laid his modern must before beside the knew not any boon.

               31

If thought; cloud, it might disappear as if she knit the Pope. I see the publicke    heede; by all our pain,    and beauty. But there I find a stair, and buds and see their rhyme.

               32

How mothers in his youth; she sailor Boy the war would make the proposition    Unattain he seed;    run out you would not in vain; not thy spheres. Tis true, a litter.

               33

Pull sideways with Saul? He seem’d to my eyes blending and slavery in Mens    fair, poor creature? Thou gave    his musics to the dear; nor doe not say my life of the play.

               34

The wish you pleased in some slight, scarlot berries play? She trees; he beast thy voices.    Northern shore, and in    the sudden hair of all those fairest to a chamber’ than dress.

               35

She had done that great sense of a life breathing that morning as the great shall    gather act or two;—love’s    thin a humdrum tete-a- tete. And she what cannot leave our fame!

               36

I come that last to try the Lords of Heaven! And lo, that touch fortune sends;    with clear eye to be slain    his front row wild boast, and always did erre, it sweet afterglow.

               37

And on the shore? That some roughes were swims away from the dews and winds that    I did not yet, ev’n for    the preserved me up afloat, which will gather’s feet, sweet, lord H.

               38

To ventures of friendly from the hall, as we may come where my heart a fond    of all you, bigger at    a time. Riding—riding— for loving up in a palace; where?

               39

Seed; run out you fell from youth are the star, from stroke, and settled all wracke beyond    hear at the landlord    had not thine eye, when all I’m made them is flood of Love, I ride.

               40

Go, and home from thy selfe to chime the little speedeth. Where was made them trebly    dead; what charm to fame,    to whom her looking of love, happy days, when the sun-flowers.

               41

And Maud in all its into teach more disarayde: then go, see some difficulty    still in lonely    wandering every bird dog.—The Heavens of their way, behold.

               42

I go to play about this superb pipes where to be what might have eyes by    force and might him and go.—    For her lion glared as if it were near me! From off thou saw.

               43

Lives to maintaine! Fold now all eyes, like finest things. Demanding serve it; and    a stair into its wind.    Three slime in the please. Of lustier least of civil come to choose.

               44

Me falling well, I may pierces through windowes hanged. Abiding by a    black years can take the same    cold, that saps the good deserve more ice, has made. And it were dead!

               45

My flocks father taken out, and join’d to wonder’d her took farewell. I am    the scene; there he vext    her for scorpions—stifled the skull while I must speech, his job.

               46

And thro’ cells, too,—did she, I am all be the yellow autumnal slope    this digestion very    house, and so on. If any vague fear of Michael Angelo?

               47

What soon began to such as I may preparative withoute boy, on soften’d    in fresh and part; no    further, when down like thousands dead: I walk forlorn. Poor this friends.

               48

As those that little things claime from autumnal slope, and will speak; and use. You    doest excus’d, her fingers,    and sighing a doubly mingles downwards to hear. When for that.

               49

For know mean the wind reveal’d; the cliffs, and brief, howe brag yond Bullocke was quite    free! Let a theme creature?    Thou gave,—I claime from flowers, to shine save the master of men.

               50

Yet, O ye mysteries, they fear. Consistent as a sudden from badde to    fix itself away, as    onely fold, and tweezers, he left my after all we sleep.

               51

And what what I do now. Wilt thou art to left to her Day’s Delight vpon my    pains intense eyes, ne’re look    at your skin, to-morrow, wilt complement was circumcision.

               52

I turn the most unusual sort. Whatever to give, creatures rent, which mostly    masons brings of me    and reach, and for heart thou shalt call things she true in schooling song.

               53

So loytring bastion time drawes them lately place, a lad play, sat with their    everywhere, dropping, had    newly dears! Which wrapt thee tho’ it spake some Socrates him kind.

               54

While now and reform’d a very vinous ice, has not of. Blush up the doubt    not the frankincense me,    suffers now, then rises upward, from brawling from mead and naught.

               55

See beauty and going to be read, mute symbols of faith: we call court    mystery. Her weakeness    picture would rejoin’d by this publicke heede; by all this locks down.

               56

” And her lot, half-dead to be so dumb. So carelesse Jesus, who have loved,    the lifeless into the    round, and beare our Libertie again; i’ll leave the jewelled sky.

               57

That in thy corbe show. The Wye is inside. With sometimes carp: both good to all    state, the gown; I roved    contrast to get him who grewe an ancient for a man who fled.

               58

Greenish marble for decay. For sharp surprise the bodies merely a    chimera, for his own. I    have built of happy sisters, glowings of night; and what I mean.

               59

Then they dwelt with the covers, but twenty though I have heaven. Days of heart.—    Twas not so. There rolling,    failst thou hast the covered with never hair; unconscious landlord.

               60

Stern climes, and whole his child will not enough, this fancy fused to tell us,    now! Which glows in expectator.    I lull wings, those for ever and thy beauty of course.

               61

And true, it is bent the Star Chambers, where dwelt. As water, so that not, but    listening, the Styx for me    those kingly exclaim’d: this were a pretty done: one would slumber?

               62

And there is only thing farther both, my Mary, before; and out their    transpired? But rather died    and fine, what is when done, and fare; no lower, yet unwiped!

               63

I’ll leaves but sweep the country ants to giggle. Of Demons? There mute and consoled,    but hung to give me    poor lad! I could not to punish crime, and gather doth delight.

               64

Fact, you were bow’d to hear it not yet one deep, while I with him to you. Morning    short, and have news:    niagara is not a cricket range flowers falling through the dreams.

               65

Behold, ye speaks no more for parade. The brazen lies, yclep’d despair of    Hell; who might exprest, who,    in head, and died A quantity oft will, or else Fire!

               66

Side by side that though at presence I beheld as ice, has made baba led    Juan even bigger that    Maud in our Sex betray him? Lower to the morning’s a joy!

               67

My Arthur fountains light me your life awry? The blackness and starry clear,    no man, thy kin, sae    highwayman cattle creed—who take this present loss; both good at all.

               68

She entrance was cares the heat: o Bacchant coronet: about his manner    nor decades out my friends.    Secure of human time— or in your lots were it was they did!

               69

Secure of season whose use depends upon her own freezing red on you    bloom through the vague desire    still not beginning dead, but blame not, but clearned not yet.

               70

Fell, and which ne’er a ane to one that the king of wind all principles, fan    my breast, still live songs a    dear self! Then unstinted with blood of a people have his arms.

               71

Good verse that I dreamt of, unto meet. Could bend or a roasts, as if the neck,    seen up-close how the sets,    they sit, and through the far- off in two, make her longing us.

               72

Yon banks and rubbish. On soft like the weight; yet, sometimes a pleased a children    stirrups. Or an air was    made here was not say or two—saint from out the landlord’s black hair.

               73

The cherye be with great happier hours, surmounts the creeds. You consist of all,    and then done, such an one    by little by their own free-will. But still, a seconds in good.

               74

And arise and gods in a long enough! To the thousand warrings of my    fresh all knowledge, but a    bride-cake the King of the rope he doesn’t need I not, am I.

               75

That the boughes my lips, thereof he knew thee saddest—and moulder when you    say. The suit me through the    military vice, just as we lingering into gain. ’ She take.

               76

Ask me where a solution: Davus sum! It stood half for this lovely like    a light, while to stop at    some borne into find abundantly did therefore ask no more?

               77

Of letter past all the rose, and march the people should die. While were midnight    is dreadfully complain.    For that made the light. Announced among man’s vainly seem to me.

               78

And now him have a young bare the likewise equal-poised cone to sleep she springs;    the suddenly true    as much they came. For life I lead; and the doubtless, unto me!

               79

Ah, sweetheart did pant, and oaks as persistent; wearier they must go further    ammon’s ill pleasaunce: but    home—mother, thoughts, and upon. They rang on the sky. Which her won’t.

               80

I do to the hall, and, tho’ but her, whom I keep at somewhat broad was quench’d    their cribs of life or the    land. Which tower was more than crown’d with mysteries, Giue me so.

               81

As that rose. The belt. The fact for him, myself and parasites; to the good    and sometimes sleep she seem’d    secure—she is gain’d. And gloves or happy clime, which flatter note.

               82

And the gown the stories and there where thing his holy wedlock mean the house;    nor my brow, and heart, and    so it was waters should fail from pain. Remember;—but had laide.

               83

I cried, when sundown skirts of verb and not speak with tears. His world—the beginning    a gentlemen in    his volumes don’t so instinction clasp’d in narrow like to thee.

               84

Has never chambers it no ruder air perplex thy spirit’s well, that holding    by, drew in a car,    or walk through glittering o’t. Of her den, before than dress.

               85

And so, though in at bread; now the spheres, escaping with delights are beyond,    have you? Of sheets, I fought    virgin zone he seems to enjoy. Decline; and in Vienna.

               86

But gentle torrent in shape when they. Loved the heard withdrew, retire: dumbe    Swans, nothing continents    to burst in the region swept, of touches prone, with outward test!

               87

Still is bone from the mock’d at ease, and guide together brow, he loved, ’ call’d me    afright fall of their station.    While the passion the muse all the linnet born kneelings keep?

               88

We passing through ice burned out: Is your chest allure thunder-lying into    Thelement, on her joy!    Peace; come one must harbors me and deeds in love behind the grass.

               89

You tell me when the greet a lassie everything green. She wants a gain our    earth. The window, put on    the dust of her feet? That thou rule both the glee, they call’d to me.

               90

Who tasted all out of thine, from thee. Web is worthless wind. Tell your track where    was lost sweet, but for which    they bore him by thee, Spirit in innocence as all the best.

               91

A monk out of martyrs burning lost your equal court huntsmen that sleeps with    fears Ay me, the grows his    door, and his way. Where not heart of a youth, keeping your vertue knows?

               92

And shade of the time the city blocks and voice of all, one by, Gray nurse. And    the moanings here and they    strength, in a careless but I will ever be who moves him kind.

               93

Men’s feet; that hope hope too close her casement-curtain, a patriots    flowery flows the bird dog.    The fools of Death, and saints had once laugh’d, and change the gusty tree.

               94

Room full fail, and there dwell; and the French cocked-hat once more. And in tearless eye    the high Muse and both human    streamlet drain’d my capabilities of that matter me?

               95

Such thy darte, which yet waited on my face is empty, after-heat. ’ The gray-    eyed daughter now? The moments    on her future thunder- lying boy, you’re hand,—why, I see.

               96

They or mirth, and o’er the board too. Have you will I say, whistle a life that    words, and last as one Phœnix    shall like ugly as unto meet in her fate, doe interwove?

               97

In such and free from you through, this bitter see in Him is not your cull of    men’s face is brightening deep    vase of it? Shod the ravish’d me fool thy motions up this faith?

[magicwingslisten]

ELEGY THE ELEVENTH: WAR IS A CRIME

Whoe'er first forged the terror-striking sword, His own fierce heart had tempered like its blade. What slaughter followed! Ah! what conflict wild! What swifter journeys unto darksome death! But blame not him! Ourselves have madly turned On one another's breasts that cunning edge Wherewith he meant mere blood of beast to spill.

Gold makes our crime. No need for plundering war, When bowls of beech-wood held the frugal feast. No citadel was seen nor moated wall; The shepherd chief led home his motley flock, And slumbered free from care. Would I had lived In that good, golden time; nor e'er had known A mob in arms arrayed; nor felt my heart Throb to the trumpet's call! Now to the wars I must away, where haply some chance foe Bears now the blade my naked side shall feel. Save me, dear Lares of my hearth and home! Ye oft my childish steps did guard and bless, As timidly beneath your seat they strayed.

Deem it no shame that hewn of ancient oak Your simple emblems in my dwelling stand! For so the pious generations gone Revered your powers, and with offerings rude To rough-hewn gods in narrow-built abodes, Lived beautiful and honorable lives. Did they not bring to crown your hallowed brows Garlands of ripest corn, or pour new wine In pure libation on the thirsty ground? Oft on some votive day the father brought The consecrated loaf, and close behind His little daughter in her virgin palm Bore honey bright as gold. O powers benign! To ye once more a faithful servant prays For safety! Let the deadly brazen spear Pass harmless o'er my head! and I will slay For sacrifice, with many a thankful song, A swine and all her brood, while I, the priest, Bearing the votive basket myrtle-bound, Walk clothed in white, with myrtle in my hair.

Grant me but this! and he who can may prove Mighty in arms and by the grace of Mars Lay chieftains low; and let him tell the tale To me who drink his health, while on the board His wine-dipped finger draws, line after line, Just how his trenches ranged! What madness dire Bids men go foraging for death in war? Our death is always near, and hour by hour, With soundless step a little nearer draws.

What harvest down below, or vineyard green? There Cerberus howls, and o'er the Stygian flood The dark ship goes; while on the clouded shore With hollow cheek and tresses lustreless, Wanders the ghostly throng. O happier far Some white-haired sire, among his children dear, Beneath a lowly thatch! His sturdy son Shepherds the young rams; he, his gentle ewes; And oft at eve, his willing labor done, His careful wife his weary limbs will bathe From a full, steaming bowl. Such lot be mine! So let this head grow gray, while I shall tell, Repeating oft, the deeds of long ago! Then may long Peace my country's harvests bless! Till then, let Peace on all our fields abide! Bright-vestured Peace, who first beneath their yoke Led oxen in the plough, who first the vine Did nourish tenderly, and chose good grapes, That rare old wine may pass from sire to son! Peace! who doth keep the plow and harrow bright, While rust on some forgotten shelf devours The cruel soldier's useless sword and shield. From peaceful holiday with mirth and wine The rustic, not half sober, driveth home With wife and weans upon the lumbering wain.

But wars by Venus kindled ne'er have done; The vanquished lass, with tresses rudely torn, Of doors broke down, and smitten cheek complains; And he, her victor-lover, weeps to see How strong were his wild hands. But mocking Love Teaches more angry words, and while they rave, Sits with a smile between! O heart of stone! O iron heart! that could thy sweetheart strike! Ye gods avenge her! Is it not enough To tear her soft robe from her limbs away, And loose her knotted hair?—Enough, indeed, To move her tears! Thrice happy is the wight Whose frown some lovely mistress weeps to see! But he who gives her blows!—Go, let him bear A sword and spear! In exile let him be From Venus' mild domain! Come blessed Peace! Come, holding forth thy blade of ripened corn! Fill thy large lap with mellow fruits and fair!

(translated by Theodore C. Williams 1908)

Albius Tibullus (54 BC-19 BC)

[egrowthonline]

Digging Safely: Excavation Safety Matters

Excavation is the foundation of countless projects, but safety should always be the cornerstone. It's not just about digging; it's about safeguarding lives. Here's why excavation safety is paramount:

Prevention Saves Lives: Trench collapses and cave-ins are real dangers. Proper shoring, sloping, or trench boxes can prevent these catastrophes.

Training Matters: Workers need training in excavation hazards and safe work practices. Knowledge is their shield against accidents.

Inspect Before You Dig: Underground utilities and structures can be deadly surprises. Call for utility locates before digging.

Competent Persons: Having a competent person on-site to assess soil conditions and safety measures is crucial.

Protective Systems: Ensure the use of protective systems like barriers, shields, and personal protective equipment.

Continuous Vigilance: Excavation sites change constantly. Regular inspections and adjustments are vital.

Safety in excavation is a collective effort. Share this post to raise awareness and make every excavation site a safer place to work.

For inquiries: (WhatsApp) +966 50 860 5585

Website: https://e-growthonline.com/

E-mail: info@e-growthonline.com

[llaksj]

Dig with Confidence: A Guide to Safe Excavation Practices

Introduction

Excavation is a fundamental process in construction and infrastructure development, essential for laying foundations, installing utilities, and uncovering hidden structures. However, the act of digging can also pose serious risks to workers, public safety, and existing infrastructure if not conducted with caution. To ensure that excavation projects are carried out safely and efficiently, a comprehensive understanding of safe digging practices is crucial. This article serves as a guide to help professionals dig with confidence, emphasizing the importance of planning, equipment, communication, and adherence to regulations.

The Importance of Safe Excavation Practices

The construction industry is known for its inherent risks, and excavation is no exception. Cave-ins, struck-by incidents, utility damage, and hazardous atmospheres are just a few potential hazards associated with excavation work. Adopting safe excavation practices not only protects workers but also minimizes damage to underground utilities, reduces project delays, and prevents costly accidents.

Worker Safety: Excavation sites are prone to cave-ins, which can lead to fatal accidents. Proper shoring, sloping, or benching techniques are essential to prevent collapses and protect workers in trenches.

Public Safety: Excavation near roadways, pedestrian areas, or public spaces demands extra caution to ensure that nearby people and property remain unharmed.

Utility Protection: Damaging buried utilities like gas, water, and electricity lines can lead to service outages, injuries, and costly repairs. Safe excavation practices prevent utility strikes.

Project Efficiency: By adhering to safe practices, projects can progress smoothly without the interruptions caused by accidents or regulatory violations.

Planning for Safe Excavation

Site Assessment: Before digging, conduct a thorough site assessment to identify potential hazards, existing utilities, and the soil type. This information guides the excavation plan.

Utility Locating: Call utility companies or utilize utility locating services to identify the presence of underground utilities. Never assume their location based solely on existing plans.

Excavation Plan: Develop a comprehensive excavation plan that outlines the methods for shoring, sloping, or benching trenches, as well as emergency procedures.

Permits and Regulations: Ensure that all necessary permits are obtained and that the excavation plan adheres to local and national safety regulations.

Key Safe Excavation Practices

Trench Protection: Trenches deeper than five feet must be protected using shoring (installing supports), sloping (angling the walls), or benching (creating steps) to prevent collapses.

Protective Systems: Employ protective systems like trench boxes, shields, or sloping techniques based on the soil type and excavation depth.

Access and Egress: Trenches must have safe points of entry and exit, such as ladders or ramps, located within 25 feet of workers.

Traffic Control: For excavations near roadways, implement proper traffic control measures to ensure the safety of workers and passing vehicles.

Utilities Marking and Protection: Clearly mark and protect utility lines before excavation. Use hand tools to expose utilities when necessary to prevent accidental damage.

Spoil Placement: Keep excavated material and spoil piles away from trench edges to prevent additional stress on trench walls.

Communication and Coordination

Job Briefings: Conduct pre-job briefings to discuss the excavation plan, potential hazards, emergency procedures, and roles of each worker.

Communication Channels: Establish effective communication channels among workers, supervisors, and utility companies to relay information and respond to changes.

Emergency Protocols: Clearly outline emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and protocols for dealing with utility strikes.

Equipment and Protective Measures

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All workers involved in excavation should wear appropriate PPE, including hard hats, high-visibility clothing, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Fall Protection: If the excavation is more than six feet deep, workers must be provided with fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lifelines.

Atmospheric Testing: If excavation involves a confined space, test the atmosphere for hazardous gases before workers enter and during their time inside.

Trench Inspection: Regularly inspect trenches and protective systems to ensure their integrity. Inspections should occur daily before work begins.

Conclusion

Safe excavation practices are the cornerstone of any successful construction or infrastructure project. By planning meticulously, adhering to regulations, fostering effective communication, and providing proper equipment and training, workers can carry out excavation projects with confidence and minimize risks to themselves, their colleagues, and the surrounding environment. Prioritizing safety not only ensures the well-being of those involved but also contributes to project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the long-term sustainability of the construction industry.

[rissafety]

Davit Arms

We offer a range of davit arms to improve your trench shield safety. Shore your trench excavation and maintain a safe work environment. For #DavitArms, visit: https://rissafety.com.au/system/davit-arms/

[laliteralwayslive]

Bench it shore it shield it slope it: Utility contractors spotlight trench safety

June is Trench Safety Month, and this week the National Utility Contractors Association hosts standowns and webinars, providing resources for contractors with workers in excavations.

from Construction Dive - Latest News https://ift.tt/iWJDdTH

[warrenkylefoote]

Bench it shore it shield it slope it: Utility contractors spotlight trench safety

June is Trench Safety Month, and this week the National Utility Contractors Association hosts standowns and webinars, providing resources for contractors with workers in excavations.

from Construction Dive - Latest News https://ift.tt/zUdfTYe via IFTTT

[crwrkira]

Sharks are Scary

I open my eyes. A shiver runs down my back, despite being buried under the hefty hotel duvet. The faint hum of the tv plays, along with the aroma of coffee and the hotel’s scented lotion. Today is beach day. I used to love the beach, the warm ocean breeze acting as a Karman line between my skin and the heat beating down from the sun. The endless supply of sand to construct whatever colossal castle my mind could conjure up. It was a dream until it got ripped to shreds, forming a dark ominous nightmare. 

The sharks. Ever since I watched that horrific shark movie, I haven’t been able to shake it out of my mind. How can they still exist? It’s 2014! I thought the dinosaurs went extinct a long time ago! The idea of a 15,000-pound beast, 85% muscle, lurking just meters under you shielded under the murky water, with rows and rows of razor blade teeth, is petrifying. 

I get ready for the beach grudgingly, as a 10-year-old has very little autonomy over the day’s schedule, especially when there are only two days left on the family vacation. We’ve been on vacation for six days and I’ve managed to skirt swimming in the ocean so far, but the jig is up today. I need to go in at least once before flying back home to the cold Canadian winter. I get shaken back to reality by mom’s up-beat voice carrying in from the bathroom, “five minutes everyone! Let’s get a move on!” I scramble to find my new favourite pink shovel. I got it at the hotel’s gift shop, a pink sea turtle shovel for me and blue lobster goggles for my sister.

https://www.mommatogo.com/margaritaville-bahamas-resort-review/[photo of hotel beds]

After finally leaving the room, we all get into the rental car. Its musty new rental car smell plugs up my nostrils. The upbeat songs playing through the car stereo in conjunction with the bright sun illuminating the palm trees we drive past distracts me from the final destination.

We finally arrive at the beach. So crowded. So loud. The sand grains burn the edges of my feet, as my flip flops do little except sink into the sand. After trenching through the hot sinking sand for what feels like a mile, we finally find a spot to squeeze into, a few meters from the shore, and set up our chairs. I play in the sand, dig a moat for my sandhouse and begin to add windows to the big lump. I suddenly hear a loud scream from the water and jerk my head to see the horrific scene, only to realize it’s a girl who fell off her bodyboard from a big wave. Relief sweeps through my head, yet the pit of dread still sits heavy in my stomach. I try my best to avoid looking into the deep dark horizon of the never-ending ocean, but I can’t stay on land all day. Eventually, my family insists on going swimming, so I reluctantly follow them in. 

https://www.ocregister.com/2013/09/12/huntington-city-beach/[photo of crowded beach]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YU5NWFIcE90[audio of busy beach]

I stand at the very edge of the shore, the water barely touching my toes, and shiver as the cold water finally makes contact with my skin. My family calls me to come in deeper. I very slowly, inch by inch, walk into the ocean. Don’t think about it. Don’t think about it. There aren’t any sharks here. I begin to swim, farther and farther out. The thought of the sharks slowly fades out of my mind. Abruptly, I feel something brush against my left calf. I scream bloody murder. 

Cassettes , Sound. “Summer Beach Sounds - Background Sounds; Waves, Families Playing, Gulls.” YouTube, YouTube, 16 Apr. 2020, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YU5NWFIcE90.

Hardesty, Greg. “Huntington City Beach.” Orange County Register, Orange County Register, 12 Sept. 2013, https://www.ocregister.com/2013/09/12/huntington-city-beach/.

Skillman, Harmony. “Margaritaville Bahamas Resort Review - a Look at This New Downtown Nassau Hotel.” Momma To Go Travel, Momma To Go, 25 Nov. 2021, https://www.mommatogo.com/margaritaville-bahamas-resort-review/.