#First Descendant 1-hour guide | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

m0chaminx · 2 years ago

Text

Coriolanus Snow | Roses Grow Thorns

*•.¸♡Request: Pls pls pls do a part 2 too the snow x reader fix it was so amazing and I want more of them 🙏🙏🙏🙏‼️‼️🩷

*•.¸♡Prompts: none

*•.¸♡Warnings: Coriolanus, Cori isn't insane (ish), Snow is slight ooc, jealousy, hurt comfort, fluff ending

*•.¸♡Paring: Coriolanus Snow x F!reader

*•.¸♡Summary: Coriolanus learns his favourite flower grows thorns

You confront Coriolanus about his relationship with Lucy Gray

*•.¸♡Words: 2k

Part 1

People danced, swaying with their partners in a circle as you stood on stage, strumming your guitar and singing to the crowd. Lucy had just finished the first half of her set, so you took the stage to fill the silence. Coriolanus sat with Sejanus at a table across the room, large glasses of some sort of liquor. Coriolanus looked up at you and smiled.

If you like your coffee hot

Let me be your coffee pot

You call the shots, babe

I just wanna be yours

Your voice trailed off slightly as Lucy raced to Coriolanus and Sejanus, throwing her arm around his shoulder and leaning between them. You shook your head and continued to play, trying to ignore Lucy Gray practically hanging from Coriolanus’s arm.

Jealousy, an unwelcome guest, clawed at the edges of your heart, leaving an ache in your chest. No words had been exchanged, and no actions had passed between you two. It overtook the corners of your mind, urging you to believe that Lucy Gray should sense the unspoken connection threading its way between you and Coriolanus.

Each shared trip to the lake, every stolen moment when Coriolanus chose to spend his fleeting free hours with you — these fragments of time saved in your mind like photos in an old book. Yet, as you observed Lucy Gray standing there, a vision of radiant smiles and hushed confidences exchanged with Coriolanus, a wave of emotion surged. It was as if the world momentarily lost its colour, and the whispers of uncertainty left an indelible mark on your heart.

You clenched your hand, trying to ease the shaking in your hands.

Secrets I have held in my heart

Are harder to hide than I thought

Maybe I just wanna be yours

Every night for the past week following that evening, Coriolanus Snow would tap gently on the glass of your window. You would turn your head and he would smile, the same bright smile that made your stomach flip and fill with butterflies. You crept across the wood floors and opened the window, looking down at the blue-eyed boy. “Are you busy?”

You would simply laugh at him. You grabbed your coat and slipped out the window, Coriolanus gripping your waist to help you down properly. He would smile, slip a scarf under the window to close it without locking it and you would slip away unnoticed, descending into the velvety embrace of the night.

In those quiet moments, Coriolanus would slip your hand in his own, his warm hand covering yours as he laced your fingers together. He guided you through the dense labyrinth of woods, you knew these woods better than he did but through the nights as he led you to the lake, you questioned if you ever knew them at all.

The Mokingjays sang into the night as if calling to the small fireflies to light the way. “I brought matches,” Cori said, looking back at you. He tugged on your hand bringing you closer and you couldn't help but think about Lucy Gray running her hand along his shoulders. “We can light a fire. Maybe catch some fish.” You nodded and Coriolanus smiled.

You reached the lake and Coriolanus set his bag down, quickly gathering everything to start a fire. You walked to the edge of the water, your mind running faster than you could even start to comprehend. “Think we’ll catch anything?” He asked, stopping to look up at you.

You looked back over the water, looking at the fish no bigger than your palm swimming just above the sea floor. You shook your head, keeping your eyes on the moonlight dancing on the waves of the water. “Nothing big enough to eat,” You said. Coriolanus nodded and turned back to the fire.

Once the fire was made you sat on the ground beside him, leaving enough space so your shoulders didn’t touch. You both sat in silence, Coriolanus’s knee bouncing softly.

The flames danced and flickered, the golden glow flickering in Coriolanus’s blue eyes, you settled onto the ground beside him. You shifted slightly, making sure your shoulders didn't touch. The silence stretched between you, Coriolanus's fingers drumming against a stick he held in nervousness.

Coriolanus's knee bounced softly, mirroring the unsteady rhythm of both your hearts. The mere inches that separated you felt like an unbridgeable chasm, as long and confusing as his thoughts. “Did I do something?” His voice cut through the silence like a knife and you turned towards him, your eyebrows furrowed. “You seem distracted. You’re not talking like you usually do. You’re sitting far away.” You bit your lip and shrugged softly. “What’s wrong?”

“What did I sing tonight?” You turned to face Coriolanus. “Tonight. I sang, I wore the red dress so everyone could see the white rose you gave me. But what did I sing?” Coriolanus stammered. “You don’t spare a second glance at me during our shows, you talk to Sejanus when I do perform and you let Lucy Gray hang off your arm like she was yours.”

He spoke your name softly, trying to shuffle closer but you stood quickly. “Don’t do that Cori,” You pleaded. “I’m gonna go home, I’ll see you later.” You turned on your heel. Making your way back through the woods.

Coriolanus sighed, dropping his head into his hands as you walked from his view.

The next morning you stared at the ceiling, stretched out on your small bed. You twisted a small rose between your fingers, the thrones pricking your skin occasionally. The knock at the window made you jump. You turned your head to look at Coriolanus standing on the other side, smiling ever so slightly. You sighed and set the rose aside before walking to the window and pulling it open. “Corio-”

“Don’t talk,” he said quickly. “Don’t say anything, just follow me.”

“Cori-”

“What did I just say?”

A frustrated huff escaped you as you forcefully closed the window, shutting out the annoying sounds of crickets. Pulling the blinds closed with a swift motion covering Coriolanus’s face, but you caught his smile dropping. You donned your jacket and stepped out the front door, stopping in front of Coriolanus just as you turned the corner. He extended his hand, a warm smile playing on his lips. Suppressing the annoyance that still simmered beneath the surface, you offered a muted response, "Just lead the way," your words carrying a hint of resignation.

Coriolanus nodded and started to lead you through the woods, the sun still yet to rise properly. “You sang I Wanna Be Yours,” Coriolanus muttered. “No, I didn't ask Lucy Gray. You wrote it after you met your old girlfriend but you haven't sung it since. That’s why it was so important to you. And why you wanted me to remember it.”

You hummed and tried to hide your smile. “So you were paying attention.”

Coriolanus spoke, low and earnest, his gaze fixed on you. "I always pay attention," he assured, a sincerity etched into his words. The weight of his gaze, coupled with the firmness in his tone, sought to reassure you. "And nothing is happening between Lucy Gray and me. She was helping me with something," he explained, his words carrying the weight of truth and an unspoken plea for understanding.

“Which is?”

Coryo smiled, “Keep following me.”

You followed Coriolanus, walking in silence until the sun rose completely. He stopped at a rock wall, a small dirt trail winding around it. He reached out, slipping his hand into yours and leading you down the track. “Roses don’t grow in 12, the ground is too hard,” Coriolanus started. “Lucy Gray told me just beyond the rock wall there is ground soft enough to grow flowers. Sejanus used his father's money to get some seed and…” Coriolanus stepped aside as you reached the bottom of the track.

You smiled, Coriolanus’s hand slipping from yours as you stepped further into the growing rose field. Dozens of rose bushes had started to grow, small red and white flowers sporting. Small raindrops covered the flowers, the sun reflecting off of them like diamonds. You crouched, smiling as you ran your hand along the rose petals.

A soft smile played on your lips, and Coriolanus's hand tenderly released yours as you ventured deeper into the growing rose field. Rows of rose bushes, adorned with tiny red and white blossoms, unfold before you, blossoming like a garden from the Capitol. Small raindrops adorned the delicate petals, capturing the sunlight in a dance that shined like diamonds. Your heart swelled. You glanced back at Coriolanus who shared the same smile.

You carefully crouched down, your smile growing as you traced the velvet texture of the rose petals with your fingertips, each delicate touch slow and careful as if the rose would fall apart. Coriolanus smiled as he watched you, his stomach filling with butterflies as he waited for you to speak.

"Wait..." The urgency in your voice sliced through the air as you stood, swiftly pivoting to face Coriolanus. His smile disappeared, replaced by a stark seriousness mirrored in your eyes. Your heart fell to your stomach as your voice shook, "You said Sejanus got the seeds from his father. If the Peacemakers find out, they'll take you away." The gravity of your words hung heavily in the charged atmosphere. “Cori, they’ll take you to the hanging tree-”

“They won’t,” Coriolanus said quickly. He stepped forward holding your face in his hands, his thumb tracing the lines of your cheekbones. “No one is going to take me away. No one is taking you. Or Sejanus, or Lucy Gray.” You raised your hand, settling it on top of his. “This place is ours, yours and mine. No one is going to take that.”

Yours and mine.

You smiled, laughing softly as you looked up at Coriolanus, his blue eyes meeting yours. “You got me roses?” You asked.

“You said you liked the Capitol flowers more,” Coriolanus remembered. “I can’t exactly take you to the Capitol, so I thought I’d bring the best part of the Capitol here.”

“Besides yourself.”

A warm smile graced his features as he leaned in, closing the distance until his forehead gently met yours. "Do people in the Capitol kiss differently than the districts?" His inquiry, spoken in a hushed tone, carried a hint of curiosity and a touch of playfulness.

“I think…” you leaned up slightly, bumping your nose against his, “you should find out.”

The brush of his fingertips against your jawline, tracing a delicate path along your skin, igniting a shiver that danced down your spine. As he cradled your face, your breath hitched in anticipation, your eyes staring at his chapped pink lips. Drawing you closer, the final shared breath seemed to linger, suspended in the charged atmosphere, before he sealed the connection with a kiss that felt like a spark that lit a fire. Your heart echoed the rhythm of the thousands of times you had dreamed of this moment and your hands instinctively wound around the back of his neck, the embrace pulling him closer.

Your stomach twirled, filling with butterflies as one of Coryo’s hands moved to wrap around your waist and pull you impossibly closer. He pulled away, his breath coming out in small pants, your breath in sync with his. You opened your eyes, looking up at his half-closed eyes tracing over every part of your face. “I love you, Coriolanus Snow.”

He whispered it back.

ﾟ°☆Page navigation

#m0chaminx #coriolanus snow x reader #young coriolanus snow #coriolanus snow smut #coriolanus snow imagine #coriolanus snow #coriolanus x lucy gray #coriolanus x reader #coriolanus snow x you #the hunger games #hunger games #ballad of songbirds and snakes #the ballad of songbirds and snakes #Spotify

3K notes · View notes

tomorrowxtogether · 1 year ago

Text

The 10 best Tomorrow X Together songs

Ahead of the boyband’s 2024 ‘Act: Promise’ world tour, NME picks the best cuts from their enchanting back catalogue

There’s always been something magical about Tomorrow X Together, even before they started adding elements of enchantment to their music in late-2019. Over their first five years together, the Big Hit Music boyband have been consistently spellbinding in their approach to sharing their experiences of youth, whether weaving colourful creations in their early days or dialling up the angst as they screeched into young adulthood.

Along with their penchant for genre-hopping, it all makes for a vibrant back catalogue that doesn’t always follow the expected path. TXT will always keep you guessing and never stay in one spot for too long. Ahead of their upcoming 2024 ‘Act: Promise’ world tour, which kicks off next month in Seoul, NME looks back on their enchanting catalogue.

Honourable mentions

‘Blue Spring’ (2023) ‘MOA Diary (Dubaddu Wari Wari)’ (2021) ‘Puma’ (2020) ‘Wishlist’ (2020) ‘LO$ER=LO♡ER’ (2021)

10. ‘Ghosting’ (2020)

youtube

The opening track of 2020’s ��minisode 1: Blue Hour’ glistens in its gloominess. Through clouds of shoegaze-y guitars, the five-piece tell stories of friends who’ve become like spectres and the isolation that comes with growing apart from those you love. It’s a beautiful piece of songwriting that highlights TXT’s knack for taking trending lingo and using it to share their tales of youth.

9. ‘New Rules’ (2019)

youtube

Since their beginning, Tomorrow X Together have served as guides and companions through life and that’s no different on ‘New Rules’. The funky hip-hop track details rebellious phases sparked by the frustrations of life, piled on by social media, teachers and class. If you’re looking for a way to break free from it all, this addictive cut will help you.

8. ‘Can’t You See Me?’ (2020)

youtube

Even without watching the flame-filled music video for ‘Can’t You See Me?’, you can feel the scorching emotions that course through the song. Rather than showcasing them in the big rock anthemics that would come later in TXT’s journey, it’s the more seemingly subdued moments that sizzle here. “With resentment, my heart is heavy / ‘Cause you don’t understand me,” Beomgyu and Hueningkai murmur in the second verse, every ounce of that weight pouring through their words.

7. ‘Good Boy Gone Bad’ (2022)

youtube

On the lead track from 2022’s ‘minisode 2: Thursday’s Child’, TXT fully embrace the moment when it feels like you’ve hit an emotional rock bottom. Instead of wallowing in the misery, they make it their new super power – there’ll be no more “pathetic days” left on the calendar when you rise up with hearts “gone dead”. Set to searing rock, it’s become one of the most electrifying moments in the group’s concerts, not least Yeonjun’s bridge that ends in the laughter of someone truly cold-hearted and the declaration: “I like being bad.”

6. ‘Crown’ (2019)

youtube

The song that started it all. Tomorrow X Together’s debut single ushered in a boyband who sounded refreshingly bright but, beneath the bubbling synths, were dealing with the complicated growing pains of adolescence. Years on from its release, it still feels like a perfect snapshot of the dichotomy of youth – at once energetic, curious, self-doubting and concerned.

5. ‘Tinnitus (Wanna Be a Rock)’ (2023)

youtube

The boyband dabble in Afro-pop on this standout from ‘The Name Chapter: Temptation’. Despite its slinky rhythms that are practically a call to groove onto the dancefloor, lyrically it finds the group wanting to sink into a stillness caused by a crisis of confidence. “Rockstar minus the star / Just a rock, OK?” Taehyun sighs, preparing to descend.

4. ‘0X1=LOVESONG (You Know I Love You)’ (2021)

youtube

The moment TXT leaned all the way into the raw, serrated sensitivities of emo. With the help of featured singer Seori, ‘0X1=LOVESONG’ wears its feelings on its sleeve so viscerally it’s hard not to get swept up in its storm of emotion. Although the five-piece’s storyline would later disavow the need for connection, here it was still an essential, the group crying out for a loved one to “take my hand” and save them from being swallowed up by life.

3. ‘I’ll See You There Tomorrow’ (2024)

youtube

The concept of fate emerges on this sunkissed house jam, the beats forming a linking pattern between TXT and the person they believe is “meant to be”. ‘I’ll See You There Tomorrow’ is fresh and breezy, while its post-chorus refrain of “there’ll be no more sorrow, I’ll see you there tomorrow” could serve as a slogan for the comfort that spills out of the group’s catalogue.

2. ‘9 and Three Quarters (Run Away)’ (2019)

youtube

The title track of ‘The Dream Chapter: Magic’ more than lives up to the sorcery in the album’s title. Sprinkled with sparkling melodies that form the aural equivalent of the magic dust that accompanies wands casting spells in movies, the song captured the heart of much of TXT’s early storyline. It’s an ode to friendship and the feeling of finding people to run alongside you as you buckle up for the rollercoaster of life.

1. ‘Eternally’ (2020)

youtube

Tomorrow X Together have never been ones to shy away from trying something new, and that spirit quietly fuels ‘Eternally’, the stand-out track from ‘The Dream Chapter: Eternity’. What starts out as a gentle lullaby pleading soon morphs into something darker and prowling. The beat switch is tellingly signalled by a rapid-fire gunshot and the verse that follows feels like a villain origin story. That the group are able to pull off the revolving door of switch-ups on this track with such elegance is nothing short of impressively exhilarating.

#txt #tomorrow x together #240430 #article #nme magazine #soobin #yeonjun #beomgyu #taehyun #hueningkai #Youtube

25 notes · View notes

mr-clow · 1 year ago

Text

Aria: Blood and revenge. Part 1:

Humanity was ready, all the ships heavily staffed, as they would board several other Spin’d ships once they got out of the system. All the engines of the fleet had been dormant the last year, to avoid raising any flags. I walked through my throne room one last time. I wasn’t expecting to see it again. Four humans, two KalHals, one Sanarin and one Spin’d were waiting for me. It was time to cast the last speech from the moon station. My eight knights were there, to hear me first hand. Some of them would stay here, others would board different ships and go to different destinies. The last two were going back to their planets, to take one more chance to help humanity.

I sat on the throne, looked upon the people that had joined me in the last two years. They had been a great guide and support for me to achieve all this. I smiled at them and nodded to start the transmission.

Today, I stand before you not merely as your Imperatrix, but as the fiery embodiment of our collective will and unwavering determination. Humanity, built on the foundations of strength, resilience, and unity, now faces its greatest test. We stand on the precipice of war, a crucible in which our mettle shall be forged into legends!

To our steadfast allies, I extend my deepest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support in our darkest hour. Your solidarity is a beacon of hope that pierces through the shroud of despair. Together, we form an unbreakable bond, a coalition forged in the crucible of shared purpose. Your presence in this fight amplifies our strength, and your loyalty deepens our resolve.

Know that we do not march alone. We march as one, a united front against those who would threaten our way of life. Your sacrifices, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to our shared cause inspire us all. Let our alliance serve as a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who value justice, freedom, and the enduring bonds of honour. Together, we shall overcome, and together, we shall emerge victorious in the face of adversity.

Listen to the beating drums of destiny, for they call upon us to rise to the occasion. The tempest of battle looms on the horizon, and it is our destiny to face it head-on, for we are not mere mortals. We are the descendants of warriors, the architects of our own fate, and the masters of our destiny!

They believe they can break our spirit, that they can extinguish the flame of our resolve. But let me make one thing abundantly clear: they have unleashed a tempest of fury unlike any other. The loss we bear upon us shall become the driving force behind our indomitable will. We will honour the memory of our loved ones with a relentless pursuit of justice and victory.

To those who would stand against us, I say this: you face not just a civilization, but a relentless force of nature. We are not just warriors; we are avengers. Our determination knows no bounds, our unity no weaknesses, and our purpose no wavering. We will hunt you down with the fury of a thousand storms.

The sacrifices of our fallen will not be in vain. Their memories shall fuel our every step, their spirits shall guide our hands, and their love shall be the beacon that lights our path. We will not rest until every aggressor faces the consequences of their actions.

We will not yield, we will not falter, and we will not be broken. Our enemies shall tremble in the face of our unwavering determination. We will not stop until justice is served, until retribution is exacted, and until our fallen loved ones can rest in peace.

To victory, to honour, and to the enduring memory of our cherished ones! Onward, my warriors, and let the world bear witness to the unyielding spirit of humanity!

A thunderous war cry was heard along the moon station that filled my hearth. I assumed that every ship around in the inner system, Mars, earth and Venus were the same. I stood up and looked at my knights again. I decided to give them a few last words to remember by, not as a good and caring ruler, but as someone who came to deliver a promise.

You are the inner circle that shares my unyielding vision. We stand at the precipice of conquest, and it is our duty, our destiny, to claim what rightfully belongs to us.

They have known nothing but weakness and complacency, while we have honed our might, nurtured our hatred, and stoked the fires of our vengeance. They will know the price of opposing us.

Our enemies have deluded themselves into thinking they can oppress us, that they can defy our supremacy. But I tell you, their opposition is nothing more than the feeble cry of the doomed. We shall crush their pathetic armies, reduce their cities to rubble, and make them kneel before our absolute authority.

Hatred, my trusted confidants, is our greatest weapon. It fuels our desire, sharpens our resolve, and guides our merciless hand. It is the very essence of our being, the driving force that propels us forward. Let it flow through you, let it consume you, for in our hatred, we find the strength to achieve the unthinkable.

As we march toward victory, remember that our cruelty knows no bounds. We shall sow the seeds of fear and discord, and we shall reap the fruits of our revenge. The world shall tremble at our might, and history shall be rewritten in our image.

To victory through hatred, my loyal inner circle!

Except for Carlos, all the others took a fist to their chest. Even the KalHals, Mouriette and Anton, that were relegated to stay out of the front lines. Neith was a deathworlder, she understood the feelings I expressed better than the other aliens that had joined.

Carlos was resigned, he knew this day would come. We all departed to our positions, Carlos said his goodbyes with his team that now was a full-blown media company designed only to create support and approval of my cause. I waited for him a couple of hours until he arrived. In complete silence, we marched toward a small ship that waited for us amidst the chaos of the station and surrounding planets. Ammunition was being loaded, crews were taking their post or aiding other ships. Commercial ships were checking all that was necessary for the support and logistics. Inside the ship, he looked more anxious than ever.

Boudica – This is your chance, you can stay and live your life, Carlos.

Carlos – I have already made my mind Boudica, that does not make it easier, but I’m glad some humanity is still alive inside you.

Boudica – Is respect Carlos, I feel I’m taking away one of the best assets of humanity for a cause that is not his.

Carlos – Yes, that might be true, but you also respect my choice.

I nodded and stared outside to see humanity alive again.

#humans are deathworlders #humans are weird #earth is a deathworld #humans are space orcs #humans are space aussies #The bloody imperatrix

26 notes · View notes

kalahannikolai · 29 days ago

Text

The Queen of Beasts, the Fang of the Autobots; the mighty Elito Thirio herself! The Elita-1 of my AU, I renamed her for two reasons: 1) it rhymes now, and 2) Thirio means "wild animal, beast" in Greek, so essentially her name now means "elite beast". I made her a predacon because I wanted to make her unique, and since they're a vital piece to my AU it helps to make her all the more integral!

I also wanted to keep her mostly within the realm of pink, but make it more of a magenta to differentiate her from my Arcee. The turquoise is both because I love the color and also it compliments the magenta. I also gave her a visor for both plot and style reasons. >B3

Elito Thirio uses she/they pronouns!

LORE TIME!!!

Born far away from Cybertron in a distant colony, Elito Thirio grew up on tales of the mighty predacons of their homeworld. The matriarch Firstborn who led the first generation to battle on behalf of Primus. Sothis and Sahmus Prime, the first Primes forged by Primus himself, Sahmus of whom was a predacon as well. Even tales of the great dragon Kalahan who was the first predacon to learn how to transform. These stories inspired a young Elito, who dreamed of seeing Cybertron for herself one day.

But what she didn't realize was the true nature of the colony on which she was born.

Founded by the renegade prime, Megatronus, Elito's people were all but criminals in the eyes of the Cybertronian Senate. But in her ignorance she left anyway and stole a ship to travel there. It went against the wishes of Deathsaurus, Emperor of the planet who then denounced Elito as a traitor for seeking out the tyrant world. Unable to go home, they continued on their path to Cybertron to find the birthplace of their people.

To her credit, Elito played it safe as she kept her origin a secret from all she encountered. She covered her optics with a visor and acted the part of an amnesiac, and she called herself "Ariel" to endear herself to the civilians. It worked wonders, and even succeeded in getting the attention of such figures as Tobias Maximus. When Elito asked them for insight on their history, the future prime directed her to the library of Iacon and to ask for Alpha Trion.

Once there, Alpha Trion had to only look upon her once to recognize her true nature. This was a direct descendent of the Fallen himself. He could see it in the way they carried themself; but moreover, he could see it in her eager smile. Nostalgic for his long-lost brother, and hopeful to guide this spark to a bright future, Alpha Trion gladly showed her all the history and knowledge she sought out. She would become a staple of the library for many cycles after.

Elito would form an inseparable friendship with Orion Pax, a librarian of Iacon who diligently worked beneath Alpha Trion. He regularly helped her locate information she struggled to find. They would talk for hours throughout the day and night, and sometimes even fall asleep on each other. They trusted each other enough to share personal secrets, and Orion was the first cybertronian to know their real name.

When Orion left the library to become a peacekeeper, seeking to find a way to resolve the strife he saw in his world, Elito Thirio pondered whether or not she could too. After all, even if she was born in a rogue colony, this was still the home of her ancestors. But they couldn’t bring themself to fight for the Senate that criminalized their home, nor did they feel comfortable joining the decepticon revolution.

But unwilling to let the division stand in her way, she remained at Orion Pax's side and would one day encourage him to accept the Matrix. With their support to keep him grounded, Optimus Prime founded the Autobot Resistance. A newly named Prime with his predacon Queen at his side, the pair led the autobots bravely against both corrupt Senate and wayward Decepticons alike.

But when they went to Fódlan ages later, Elito would vanish amidst the Tragedy of Duscur...

#cyber emblem #elita one #elita 1 #transformers #transformers au #fire emblem #fire emblem au #fire emblem: three houses #three houses #three houses au #my art

6 notes · View notes

michallendenblogs · 3 months ago

Text

Mera Peak Climb: Conquering Nepal’s Highest Trekking Peak

Introduction

Standing tall at 6,476 meters (21,247 feet), Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal and one of the most rewarding non-technical climbs in the Himalayas. Located in the remote Hinku Valley of the Everest region, this expedition offers an incredible opportunity for adventure seekers to experience high-altitude mountaineering while being surrounded by some of the world’s tallest mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Cho Oyu. Unlike more technical climbs like Island Peak or Ama Dablam, Mera Peak is accessible to trekkers with basic mountaineering skills, making it an ideal challenge for those looking to push their limits without extreme climbing risks. The journey takes you through pristine forests, glacial valleys, and traditional Sherpa villages, far from the crowded trails of the Everest Base Camp trek.

Why Climb Mera Peak?

1. Unmatched Himalayan Views

Few places on Earth offer such a 360-degree panorama of 8,000-meter peaks. From the summit, you can see:

Mount Everest (8,848m) – The world’s highest peak

Lhotse (8,516m) – Everest’s neighbor

Makalu (8,485m) – The fifth-highest mountain

Kanchenjunga (8,586m) – The world’s third-highest

Cho Oyu (8,188m) – One of the "easiest" 8,000ers

2. A True Adventure Off the Beaten Path

While the Everest Base Camp route sees thousands of trekkers each year, the Hinku Valley remains remote and untouched. You’ll trek through:

Dense rhododendron and pine forests

Alpine meadows with grazing yaks

Glacial moraines and high-altitude lakes

Traditional Sherpa and Rai villages

3. Perfect for Aspiring Mountaineers

Mera Peak is often called a "trekking peak," but don’t underestimate it—it’s still a serious high-altitude climb. However, with:

No extreme technical sections (only basic snow climbing)

Guided training in ice axe and crampon use

Gradual acclimatization ...it’s an excellent first Himalayan summit for those dreaming of bigger peaks like Island Peak or even Ama Dablam.

Detailed Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1-3: Kathmandu to Lukla & Trek to Paiya (2,730m)

Flight to Lukla (2,860m): One of the world’s most thrilling airport landings.

Trek to Paiya: Descend through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and stay in cozy teahouses.

Day 4-7: Into the Hinku Valley (Tagnag & Khare)

Cross Zatra La Pass (4,610m): A challenging but rewarding climb into the remote Hinku Valley.

Acclimatization in Tagnag (4,360m): Rest day with short hikes to adjust to altitude.

Arrive at Khare (5,045m): Base for Mera Peak training.

Day 8-9: Glacier Training & High Camp (5,780m)

Ice Climbing Practice: Learn how to use crampons, ice axes, and ropes on the nearby glacier.

Ascend to High Camp: A steep climb setting the stage for summit day.

Day 10: Summit Push (6,476m) & Descent

2 AM Start: Climb under a starry sky with headlamps.

Sunrise at the Summit: The ultimate reward—panoramic Himalayan views.

Return to Khare: Celebrate with your team!

Day 11-14: Trek Back to Lukla & Fly to Kathmandu

Retrace steps through the Hinku Valley

Final night in Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu**

How Difficult is Mera Peak?

Fitness Level Required

✔ High endurance – 5-7 hours of trekking daily at altitude. ✔ Strong cardiovascular fitness – Steep climbs at 5,000m+ are demanding. ✔ Mental resilience – Summit day is long and cold.

Technical Difficulty

✔ Beginner-friendly – No prior climbing experience needed (training provided). ✔ Glacier travel – Basic rope skills and crampon use required. ✔ Altitude challenge – Proper acclimatization is crucial.

Best Time to Climb Mera Peak

1. Spring (April-May)

Stable weather with clear skies.

Warmer temperatures than autumn.

Best for photography with blooming rhododendrons.

2. Autumn (October-November)

Crisp, dry conditions – ideal for climbing.

Fewer clouds for unobstructed mountain views.

Popular season – more trekkers on the trail.

Avoid monsoon (June-Sept) and winter (Dec-Feb) due to snow and extreme cold.

Permits & Logistics

Required Permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Mera Peak Climbing Permit

Local Area Permit (Hinku Valley Restricted Zone)

Guided vs. Independent Climb?

While experienced climbers may attempt Mera Peak solo, a guided expedition is highly recommended for: ✔ Safety (crevasse navigation, altitude sickness management). ✔ Logistical support (permits, food, accommodations). ✔ Training (ice axe, crampon, and rope skills).

Final Thoughts: Is Mera Peak Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for: ✅ A non-technical but challenging Himalayan climb. ✅ Solitude away from crowded Everest trails. ✅ The most breathtaking mountain views in Nepal.

...then Mera Peak should be at the top of your adventure list.

Ready to take on Nepal’s highest trekking peak? 🏔️

#mera peak #nepal #nepal trekking #nepal mountain #nepal peak #nepal advanture #mera peak climbing #mera peak trek

2 notes · View notes

ofoceansandtombsanew · 2 years ago

Text

Lost Girl: Chapter 1

chapter list 🧣 next chapter 🧣 AO3

As a child, I loved the stories my father would tell.

They were best told after a long day of work and your hands were raw and the calluses on your feet had calluses. Our tribe had always been hunting people, he saw no reason to stop the traditions of the Nwabu with me. So at 6 I was given a rifle and taught to hunt deer and fowl, waiting hours on end until the opportunity finally struck. Tiring as it was, the stories at the end of the day somehow always made it seem worth it.

I loved the ones that had to do with my mother the most, rare as they were to hear. My memories of her were hazy; at most I remembered the faint sound of her humming as she held me close to her chest. She passed away when I was three, illness claiming her before we moved away deeper into the mountains. At least that's what my father told me. He didn't like talking about her and even as a kid, I felt that if I mentioned her, he would break. So I made it a habit not to talk about her unless he brought her up first.

Otherwise, the stories my father would tell always had to do with the orishaー the gods our people worshipped before they came to the Walls to escape the Titans. A lot of them had been forgotten, lost over the generations as our kind's numbers dwindled. The ones he did remember, my father made sure to tell me about.

Oshun who blessed my mother with boundless beauty.

Erinle who guides us while we hunt.

Oko who we thank for the food the earth provides.

I listened to every word as if honey dripped from my father's lips as he told me tale after tale about beings most of the Walls' inhabitants never even knew about. Instead they worshipped the gods that created the Walls we lived in, Maria, Rose and Sina.

"Then why don't we worship them when we live in the Walls they made?" I asked after learning of the three deities.

"Because they aren't our gods," he answered smoothly, as if he knew that question was coming.

I cocked my head to the side, "we can still be friends with their people even if we don't believe the same thing?"

That question made my father's nostrils flare. "Those people aren't our friends," Ba snapped almost immediately. My heart lurched then, fearful I made my father angry, or worse, disappointed in me. "We stick to our own and interact with the pale ones when we have to."

"... are we supposed to be afraid of them?" I asked quietly when I found my voice.

My father didn't answer my question immediately, dark brown eyes lost in thought as he stared into the flames. "A long, long time ago there were many kinds of people. That changed when the Titans came," Titans. Again, that word. I'd never seen one in all my young years of living, neither had my father. I couldn't even begin to imagine what these monstrous beings were supposed to look like. They were big, larger than the trees that surrounded our home. Still, it was hard to imagine something I'd never seen even if they were supposedly the cause of humanity's decline. "When the Titans came and began eating everyone, many kinds of people went extinct. Other tribes, other types of people besides our own. We're the descendants of the lucky ones who made it, but they couldn't have predicted the problems that came after. The pale ones don't think of us as the same even though we're humans hiding from the Titans like them.

"To them we're slaves for labor. Dirty people. Our men are worked until death in unsavory places and our women..." Ba trailed off. "Our people are dying." My father eyed my hair. For as long as I could remember, he kept it short and as close to cleanly shaven as possible. He said he wanted me to be tough, like a boy. He said it was to protect me from the pale ones. Back then, I just felt that my father wanted a son and he was compensating for it because he got saddled with me instead. " We're the last of our tribe, [First], probably even the last of our kind in these damned Walls. We don't live, we survive."

The quiet of the house felt eerie and it scared me. "I sometimes wonder if they had known this was the fate that waited for us, would they still have believed it was better than being put in the bellies of monsters."

"... Ba?"

My father sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose before patting my head. "No more stories tonight, [First]," he whispered solemnly. "It's time for bed now."

"I'll be gone a couple of days, [First]."

"I know, Ba," you curl into a tighter ball, heart beat roaring in your ears. I still can't believe I'm doing this, one half of youー likely the sane halfー murmurs nervously. The other half of you shakes your head. I've already committed to this. I'm doing this! You knew as you lay in her your, ankle throbbing lightly, it is too late to turn back now.

"I really don't feel comfortable leaving you that long on your own," even without seeing him, Ba still sounds doubtful despite your nonchalant reply.

You feel your stomach lurch. Just go already, Ba! This is truly it, you know. You want so badly to just sit up and run, feeling the wind run over your head and not look back over your shoulder at your father who would be undoubtedly furious. Instead, you sit up up slowly before looking at him and blinking as groggily as you can. "Ba, you said we're low on food, I'll be fine here on my own. You really need to go hunting."

Ba nods taking heavy steps to her bed. "The hunting is always best when we're together." He says, reaching over to squeeze your left ankle gently. You wince and recoil. Even if your hurt ankle had been planned, it didn't mean it still isn't hurting. The injury in its entirety is superficial but the pain is still vaguely there. Nothing to keep you from walking, but as far as your father knew, your injury made you immobile for the next few days. "You promise me that you remember to stay inside, there's enough food for you to take care of yourself."

"Yes, Ba," you nods. How your excitement hasn't shown yet, you are unsure but thankful. If Ba knew of your plans you doubt you'd ever be left alone again.

"Don't answer the door for anyone if they knock," he continues in a more grave tone.

"I know, Ba," you repeats, exasperation barely hidden in your tone. Why Ba insisted on repeating his many rules you know inside and out already, you don't know. He'll stop with the rules once I prove to him I can take care of myself and there's nothing to be afraid of anymore.

"Hide immediately, don't let anyone see you. And make sure-"

"To always keep the curtains closedー I know, I know!"

Ba's expression is sharp and unrelenting like the earth itself, "I know it seems like a lot, [First], but it's all to protect us. To protect you. Your mother-" Would feel like you're driving her crazy too. You keeps the disagreeable remark to yourself, lest your father abandon his hunting trip altogether to re-educate you about your ancestors. How when the Titans first arrived, your tribe had been among the few to find refuge within the three Walls protecting them from the giant monsters roaming the world. "would agree too. Humans like us," Ba gestures to your matching brown skin. "you don't find many of. We might even be the last ones. There are many who would want to steal those like us away."

You barely stop yourself from rolling your eyes, the story hadn't changed since you were 6. The same one every year, and every year nothing happens. The few times you had ever gone to into town with your father, nothing ever happened. You took the furs and hides you tanned to the city, sold them and then went right back home as always. The rules then are strict as the ones you hear everyday for the house. Stay by Ba's side and don't talk to anyone, not even the kids that always stopped and gawked at the two of them as they walked.

"They only stare because they've never seen people like us," Ba had said when you begged him to let you play while he conducted his business. "They don't care about actually knowing us." You remember going to sleep bitterly that night. Even now you are doubtful of his claims. Ba might be smart but he can't know everything. Maybe they did want to know us, want to know me.

"These rules might seem strict, but it keeps the two of us safe," Ba says yet again. You huffs quietly but otherwise keep your mouth shut. You knew that day there is no point in trying to get your father to change without any sort of proof to get him to. Ba sighs, rubbing his hand across your head. Maybe he knew there is no point in arguing further either. "I'll be going now, remember everything I said. I'll be gone only a couple of days, you have the rifle if anything goes wrong." But nothing should. "The ones that barge in here aren't people, they're predators. Protect yourself if it becomes necessary." With that, Uba stood up and left your room.

It's only when you're sure an hour has past and that your father is most certainly gone did you finally toss off your blankets. Your hands shake in excitement and anxiety. You have only two days days, maybe three at most, to make good on your plan to put as much distance as possible between yourself and your home. Ba would be heading east down the mountains and you know his routine by heart after the many times you had left with him on these expeditions. Ba wouldn't turn you home until you had as many as two deer with a few ducks to spare. The ducks would be plucked raw, feathers washed and used for pillows. The deer would be skinned and most of the meat would be hung to dry. If Ba was really lucky, he might catch a wild hog. Erinle willing, the prey would be bountiful this season before the rain would arrive. Wonderful that would be for your belly, you also knew your chances of leaving would be completely diminished. You have to leave now when Ba's hunting trip is too important for him to skip.

Guilt hummed beneath your skin all-the-while as you rummage through the kitchen for loaves of bread. You won't take more than what you will need. Even with what you takes, there is still plenty of yeast for Uba to make even more bread for himself and he'd have plenty of meat coming back from his trip.

Ba can't keep me hidden here forever. You nod with determination, willing the guilt to leave you. There is nothing to be guilty of when this is for the better for both of their lives. Ba is heading east and you are heading west. There's no opportunity for you to accidentally cross paths. From the map in Ba's study, Leipmold is the closest town from where there home is located. You had traced it over many of time on your own parchment. You had always been indifferent to hunting, but now you appreciate the knowledge. You can hide your own tracks and hunt for your own food, then you would sell any furs you could skin herself in the markets and make money. Only once you are satisfied would you go back home.

Ba would be mad that you took off on your own, but you hope that with enough coin, his parental wrath could be assuaged.

I'll sell rabbit fur! There should be plenty hopping around. You stuff your blanket into your knapsack. Nothing'll change if I just do what he tells me all the time. Ba never talks about the day you'd be a grown up and forced to live on your own. You doubt he has even imagined a future like that, but you do. One day, you would live in town. You'd make friends with the city folk, unafraid and without hesitation. You wouldn't have to shave your head and you would be able to wear whatever clothes you desired. You've never been allowed to wear dresses. Ba said the pale-skinned humans would sell you off to do the unthinkable if they knew you were a girl, whatever that meant.

If Ma was still alive that she'd have let me wear dresses the color of the sky at dawn and let my hair grow as much as I want. A prickle of anger surges through you before you shake it away. You don't have to be upset anymore when you can grow your hair out in the city and buy whatever clothes you wants. Then when Ba realizes he has nothing to worry about, he will let you do as she pleases.

With that, you sling your rifle over your shoulder and packs the few bullets Uba had spared in your knapsack. In its place, you leaves a note.

Ba, I've gone to Eppelbog. I know you think that I'm just a kid, but I'm 10 years old. I'm going to sell our furs there and come back with money. Just wait here for me, okay? Eppelbog was south from their home according to Ba's map and nowhere near Leipmold. If Ba decides to track you down in his worry, his heading there first would give you plenty of time to get to Leipmold before he realizes that he's been duped.

Heaving a deep breath, you open the door.

Ba is gonna be gone for at least 3 days if I'm lucky. You relish the sound of the grass crunching beneath your feet and hope Ba didn't suddenly realize he had forgotten something. If he did, your journey would end before it truly had a chance to start. There's another mountain path I can take between here and Leipmold and I can get to it by tomorrow morning. Traveling through the mountain chains will be your best chance at throwing off Uba if he decided to track you when he realized you were gone.

You had two and a half loaves of bread, around five bullets and a wineskin full of the freshwater you could spare without taking too much from your father. This should be able to last until I get to Leipmold. Any rabbits you caught could be cooked completely, saving half the meat for the next day to stretch it out, something you and Ba would do plenty of times with your food. I'll be there before I know it, you purse your lips. On the map it didn't look that far away. I might even get there by tomorrow night!

Yet Leipmold doesn't come tomorrow night, nor does it come the night after next.

All that comes is disappointment, hunger and the fear that Ba's map wasn't a true representation of the distance between cities.

Your stomach growls but you refuse to stop and eat when the food you have needs to be saved. It's really bad about that goose. You had seen one yesterday, but by the time your rifle was ready, it had flown beyond the opening of the trees and the hunger pangs kept you up most of the night. Today will be different, you swear. You will catch something. The path you've been walking surely will end soon enough and you'd finally be close to your journey's end. The prey will be bountiful as well. Maybe there you will even find some berries or mushrooms to eat as there had been none to find so far on your trail.

Maybe I should have grabbed some of the meat they still had before Ba's hunting trip, after all. Ba would be coming back with plenty of food for himself, he wouldn't have notice the leftover venison missing.

With a sigh, you put her traced map back in your bag and stand on her feet, wincing at the aching sensation. Soon you'll be at the base of the mountain, you remind herself. There will be less undergrowth hiding food and there'll be berries and mushrooms that aren't poisonous. It'll definitely be easier finding rabbit burrows without all the shrubs. The path east that you and Ba took for hunting always seemed clear and kept in comparison to this wild path. Maybe Ba had been clearing it himself to make it easier to hunt. Mohammed at least wishes there would be a snake slithering along bushes, it tastes pretty nice all things considered.

Your stomach rumbles again. No more thinking about food, you groan.

It's then that you smell apples and you stop in your tracks.

As the smell continues to waft through the air, you lick your cracked lips. Apples were a rare treat back home. Ba had planted a few seeds on your land but your trees seldom had a good harvest making you treasure them whenever you could manage to grow a good few. I just wanna see where it's coming from. Suddenly your aching feet are easier to ignore, mouth watering the closer and closer you get to the source of the smell.

It doesn't take long for a small cottage to be seen through the trees. The back door wide open and from where you stand, you can see an open window with a pie sitting in the sill.

Who on earth leaves a perfectly good pie unattended?

Your stomach growls something fierce and you grabs it. I should just go. Hungry as she rea, you will be cursed if you steal from someone.

But no one is even here, the hungry part of you argues. If the pie is that important, the window and door would be both be shut and you wouldn't have smelled the pie to begin with. You lick her lips again but they somehow feel even drier. You look like a fox stuck in a trap, starving, with its own paw starting to look delicious after days of not eating. When your stomach rumbles again, your resolve solidifies. The gods might be upset you stole a pie, but your mother would be more upset if her daughter joins her in the heavens because you starved to death. You drop your bag and rifle behind a bush and stumble out of the brush, your pant leg catching on a few brambles.

You'd eat as much as you can before running away, that will hold you off the rest of the day if you ate half. Maybe you can fold the tin over afterwards and carry it back to your bag to eat the second half tomorrow. Two days worth of food, your mouth waters at the thought. This meal could be two days worth of food!

You rush up the few porch steps leading into the house, weary of the creaking of your boots on the floorboard as you search for the kitchen. It's a boon that the cottage isn't too big, you passed by two rooms in the hall that eventually led to the kitchen and dining room area. The last door, you assume is the front door. Even better is if the family is in front doing something else, distracted for long enough for you to leave without much of a trace. I'm sorry, I'm really sorry, but sorry will likely mean nothing to the family you are stealing from. If I come back home this way after Leipmold, I'll pay them back for the pie. I'll bring them a basket of apples so they can make another one!

You stand on a conveniently placed stool beside the counter and grab the pie with ease, reaching for a spoon in the sink that looked like it had been rinsed off recently and, guilt and all, digs right in.

It's on your third spoonful that you hear a soft gasp and freeze. Don't look, they aren't there if I don't look. Still, even at 10 you know that isn't how the world works. You spin around quickly, neck nearly cracking in the process as you see the girl standing behind you with her mouth agape. She's pretty, you think without trying. The girl's hair is long and black with dark eyes that almost matches. She also sees that the pie her mother probably worked on is now ruined.

You ignore how your hands burn when you pick up the pie tin and make a mad dash to the backdoor.

At that, the girl finally breaks out of her stupor. "W-wait!" She cries, storming after you. "Stop, you pie thief!"

"Mikasa?" The voice of a woman approaches closer and you feel like crying. "What's going on?! Are you alright?!"

"Some boy is stealing our pie, Mom!"

When the steps leading to the back door came into view, you prepare yourself to jump over them. You'll just have to hide under a shrub until they give up their search outright before you can grab her rifle and knapsack. That was the plan at least before a third person arrives, a tall man with blond hair appears. The way he's holding his arms out wide to prevent your exit that makes you skid to a halt in surprise before stumbling forward clumsily and crashing on the floorboard. You wince as your chin hits the floorboard and your teeth clash together.

"Oh no!" The young girl's disappointment is palpable. The pie tin had landed upside down in a sticky mess. "Mom, your pie..."

You groan and clasps your jaw. You struggles to sit yourself back up, your vision is cloudy from the hot tears welling in your eyes. "Ow ow..." You garble, it didn't feel like anything is broken but that didn't make it hurt any less. You sniff harshly, trying to blink your eyes into being dry. You don't want to cry in front of these people. Not when you know it's your fault you ended up like this.

The gods really have cursed you for stealing the pie.

Anxiously, Mikasa peers through the crack of the door.

Her mother and father had told her to stay in the kitchen after they had caught the boy trying to steal their pie, but she is still worried. Mikasa feels disappointment and anger swirling in her equally as she looks at the boy, brown hand clutching his chin. Sunny days seldom result in her having ample time with her parents and yet her mother made that seldom into definite that morning when she asked Mikasa to help her bake. It was her first experience baking and to see it stolen so callously and then spilled onto the floor dampered her spirit.

Now she watches in private, wondering what her parents will do next.

Your eyes suddenly catch gray and Mikasa ducks with a flinch to avoid the boy noticing her.

Why'd you hide? Mikasa scolds herself. He's the stranger here, you don't have to hide! Despite her self-scolding, Mikasa doesn't feel brave enough to look up again, fearing she'd be spotted again instantly. She places a small hand over her chest, hoping it will calm her heartbeat.

"I'm sorry about your pie," the boy's voice is barely audible from where Mikasa crouches. "I shouldn't have tried to steal it. I don't have any apples to give back right now. Please don't be mad."

"Where is your family?" Mother doesn't sound angry, so much as she sounds concerned. Like when she thought Mikasa had gone too far into the forest to play. She is always worrying about something, Mikasa's mother believes it is justifiable, however. In the forest they lived, there are wild animals and too many trees for Mikasa to get lost in. "What's a child as young as yourself doing alone in these mountains?" Her voice was gentle.

"Ba went to Eppelbog." The boy answers after a few seconds. "He wanted me to go to the Leipmold to sell furs."

"'Ba'?" Mother repeats, sounding as confused as Mikasa is. She never heard that word before. "Is that your father?"

"Yes, ma'am."

Father sounds surprised, "your father decided to send you on your own to Leipmold? That's at least two weeks away from here on foot! How old are you?"

"10," a year older than Mikasa's 9 and he looks so different from her and her parents. The boy taller than her and his eyes were a bright [color] with skin that is the color of Ms. Penny's feathers, their oldest hen who died the previous winter. Mikasa feels her courage return enough to attempt her peeking once again. She's never seen anyone with skin that dark before.

"10?" Mother brings a hand to her mouth in disbelief. "Who sends their 10 year old to sell furs that far away?"

Father glances at Mother with a reproachful look, "that isn't too young an age for some families to have their boys work, Shiori."

"13 is one thing," Mother argues, crossing her arms adamantly. "10 is another, Mikasa's only 9! He needs to be home with his mother, Abelard."

"Don't have one," the boy shakes his head nervously. "Ma's gone, been gone since I was three. It's just me and Ba now."

Mikasa eyes widened with a shudder of horror. His mother is gone? She looks at her own parents, unable to imagine a reality in which either of them weren't with her everyday. No longer seeing her mother's embroidery or welcoming her father home after he was gone for a few hours of hunting, bringing back something that would make her heart jump as she tried suppressing the vague feeling of fear witnessing it.

"Is this your first time going to Leipmold on your own?" Father asks the boy who then nods in agreement. "Your father was irresponsible to send you on your way without enough food to last you an entire trip. You're going on foot the entire way?"

"I was supposed to catch rabbits on the way, I thought I could eat them on the way." The boy explains before wincing briefly. He rubs his chin again tenderly, the fall from earlier clearly taking a large toll on him. "There weren't a lot of rabbits though. I thought Leipmold was closer on the map my dad had in his study."

At that, Mother and Father both exchange a look that Mikasa didn't understand. Neither did the boy it seems as his expression is one of worry as he looks between the two of them. "Please don't tell him about the pie, he'll be mad," he begs.

"We'll keep the pie to ourselves if you answer some more of our questions," Father reassurs him with a smile. "When is your dad going to return home?"

"A few weeks," The boy's answer is slightly muffled. "He has a lot to sell."

"And you're absolutely sure he'll come no sooner than that?"

The boy nods again.

"What's your name?"

The boy hesitates at that, looking elsewhere. Mikasa is prepared to duck again if he's going to look in her direction again. "It's alright, dear." Mother's voice is soothing as she speaks and Mikasa can see she is smiling softly. "You can trust us."

"... [First]," the boy said after another moment passed. "[First] [Last]."

"[First]." Mikasa's mother repeats, copying the syllables slowly. "That's a lovely name, did your mother pick it?"

"Ba did."

"Well at least your father had good sense to pick a decent name." Mother murmurs to herself. Mikasa wonders if her upset towards the boy's father would last until she met him. Mikasa has never even been to Shiganshina, south of their home in the mountains which is an intimidating enough thought. Traveling alone in the mountains seems even scarier. She wonders if that's why the boy ended up eating their pie. "How about this, instead of going to Leipmold, you work here for us for a few weeks while your father is in Eppelbog and we pay you for it? Then you can leave for home from here and we won't even have to mention the pie."

[First] blinks and pulls away from his hand in his surprise. "Really?"

Mother and Father nod in unison. "It would be a lot safer for you to do this instead, I think your father would understand," Father beams with his hands on his hips.

"The mountains are no place for a child to be traveling on their own," Mother continues sounding resolute. "We'll have no problems letting you stay here in exchange for help with the chores around here. And you'll have to get along with our daughter, of course," Mikasa bites her lip and had to stop herself just barely from shuffling her feet. "She can be a bit shy, so you'll have to be patient with her."

"I- um-"

When Mother claps her hands together, Mikasa knows there will be no arguments further on the subject. When Mother makes up her mind, it can't be swayed by outside forces. "You can call us Abelgard and Shiori. Please make yourself home, [First]."

Father's eyes glance at the door and Mikasa takes a few steps back, but it's too late. "We know you're there already, Mikasa," he says with a knowing smile on his face. Mikasa groans quietly at the failure of her hiding place as she slowly opens the door, the creaking sounding ten times louder than normal. "There you are. Say 'hello' to [First], he'll be staying with us for a little while to make up for the pie, okay?"

Mikasa hides behind her mother to avoid looking their guest in the eye. "Hi," she grumbles quietly, hoping that would suffice.

"[First] will stay in your room while he's here, okay, and you can sleep with Mom and Dad, alright?"

"Mmhmm."

"Um," [First] pipes up after all his silence.

"Yes?" Father turns his attention back to their guest who would now be staying in Mikasa's room with her favorite dolls and the perfect view of the flower patch she had planted that was finally starting to sprout.

"I'm not a boy," [First] coughs as light coincidentally peeked through the curtains to shine on her head from the window. "Ba just shaves it off all the time."

Mikasa looks from behind Mother to stare at the girl curiously in her dirty shirt and pants and shaved head. It isn't long before she is hissing from the light pain of a pinch. "Ow!"

"It's rude to stare, Mikasa," Mother warns but her voice isn't harsh. "Remember? We're supposed to be polite when someone is in our house."

I know that already! Mikasa's eyes stare at the floor embarrassed to be scolded in front of someone so publicly. "Sorry," she murmurs instead.

"We should get you some fresh clothes so you can have those washed," Mother looks back at [First] as if there were no interruptions. "Do you like wearing dresses, dear?"

[First] shrugs. "I've never worn one. Ba said I couldn't."

"We can set out some clothes for you to pick between after you have a bath. Dear, you should get some water and heat it up over the fire for her in the mean time." Mother's attitude had shifted completely and Mikasa feels her embarrassment fade away as she watches in awe of how her mother seems to command the room. Father gave her a playful salute before leaving to do exactly as she asked. Mikasa can only hope that one day she would be just like her. Someone everyone could respect. "Mikasa, you should show [First] to your room and maybe you can even give her a tour afterwards. Do you think you can do that?"

Mikasa nods, not wanting to disappoint her. "I can do it!" She beams when Mother gives her a proud smile. "You're my favorite little helper, Mikasa!" Mother tells her often, it makes Mikasa warm to be.

"[First], where are your belongings?" Mother asks without missing a beat.

The girl points out of the window. "I left 'em under a bush."

"Alright, then you should get those before anything else," with a hint of finality, Mother claps her hands together to signal she is done for now. "Go on now," she places a hand on Mohammed's back and gives her a few pats to encourage the girl to stand. "It shouldn't take but twenty or so minutes for your bath to be ready and the warm water should help with any soreness. Then you can relax for the day before you can help with chores tomorrow."

She stands but the disbelief on [First]'s face is clear to see. She waits a moment, possibly pondering if she should say what's on her mind before ultimately deciding to gather her things without a word. I wonder if we can be friends, Mikasa stares at her back. It's not easy thinking one can be become friends with a pie thief, but if they will be living together Mikasa is sure she'll have to try her best to be polite at most. She will be just as long as no more pies would be lost to acts of thievery.

When the girl is finally out of an earshot, Mikasa asks, "Why would her dad cut her hair off, Mom?"

Mother only sighs, placing a warm hand atop her head gently. "I don't know, dear. And you shouldn't ask unless she tells you she might be very sensitive about it. Her father might not be a good person, letting her on her own like this. So we need to be kind until we're able to get home safely, alright? Can you do that for us?"

Mikasa doesn't understand completely, but she nods anyway. "I can."

Mother smiles brightly, "that's my girl."

You fidget uncomfortably in your dress. I thought dresses were going to be comfortable. They at least looked comfortable from how you saw other girls running in them in Eppelbog the few times you visited. Perhaps comfortability is subjective, though. At least, that is how you feel as your legs feel bare without the sensation of fabric hugging them on all sides closely. Maybe Ba knew they were uncomfortable and that's why they were forbidden. It's a pretty dress you can acknowledge. It is one of the daughter of the house's dresses. It reminds you of the sun with its warm yellow coloring, but it's nothing like how you had imagined wearing dresses. You spin around in the full body mirror, watching as the skirt flutters in the reflection.

Dresses aren't for me, I don't think. But your clothes wouldn't be ready to wear for another few hours after they finish drying.

"Um..." You almost jumps when she finally notices another face looking back at her in the mirror's reflection. "Mom asked me to give you a tour around our home right now."

Mikasa, Mr. Ackerman had said her name was. "Oh, um, hi," you turn around to face the girl properly. You hadn't expected your attempt at theft to turn into this, but it's a lot better than you getting in trouble and going to jail over it. It isn't quite Leipmold, but it still falls in the line of your original plans. You get to interact with different kinds of humans and you make money. Ba wouldn't be mad at that, at least not by much. Then his strict rules would fall by the way side and you would be free to live her life as she desired. You could make friends.

It's just not exactly promising that your first prospective friend is one you tried to steal a pie from. I'll make it work. "You're Mikasa, right?"

The black-haired girl nods, "and you're [First]."

An awkward silence passes between the two of them before you speak up again. Even if the start was the rough, you aren't letting a new friendship fall through your fingers. "Thank you for letting me wear your dress, Ba never let me wear them before. It's very pretty." Uncomfortable but pretty nonetheless.

Mikasa cracks a small smile at that.

"I'm ready for your tour now," you gesture to the door.

Mikasa leads the way with her flats tapping nicely against the wooden floors, your own footsteps in your boots sounding heavier. But you still your their way outside while there is still plenty of sun gracing the cottage. You sighs in relief. The air smells sweeter now that you don't stink among shrubs anymore. The Ackerman home is a nice home even if there isn't much on the land beyond a garden, a shed and a chicken coop. "This is Eunice, Bonnie, Claudette, and Dana, our hens." Mikasa's voice is light with a small smile gracing her face as she points at the birds. "We don't eat them because they lay eggs for us."

"I like Claudette the most," you point at the black hen's speckled-with-white feathers.

Mikasa shakes her head almost immediately. "Eunice is the prettiest," she gestures at the burgundy hen with gusto.

"Claudette."

"Eunice."

"Claudette."

It is a battle with no end before Mikasa's tour takes them away from the coop and to a garden area. "Eunice," you think you had heard under the girl's breath but your belly grumbles when she spots the blackberry bushes.

You coughs do cover the noise, "did Mrs. Ackerman plant everything?"

Mikasa shakes her head and kneels beside a small patch of dirt with buds separating from the main garden. "These are the flowers I planted," the girl says proudly, the sun beaming down on her. You kneel beside her as best you can without getting dirt on your borrowed outfit. "Mom let me do it all by myself and she said they'll finally be flowers in a couple of months!" You know she won't be there long enough for that but you smile anyway.

"Can you eat them?"

Mikasa looks aghast at the very thought, "of course not!"

"You can eat some flowers though," you points out. Like the lavender that grows near her home. Ba sometimes had you collect flowers like chamomile for tea he would brew when it was especially cold.

"These flowers are for being pretty," Mikasa looks at her buds again proudly. "Mom said we can make flower crowns with them and press them too and that I'll be able to keep them forever that way." She stands up, dusting what few specks of dirt that managed to get on the bottom of her dress. "The rest here are vegetables and fruits Mom grows." You try not to look too excited when you stop in front of blackberry bush but it seems Mikasa already has similar ideas. The young girl plucked a berry right off the bush, holding it for you to take. "The berries are ripe enough to pick right now." I'm really happy I tried to steal that pie! "You can try it, if you want."

You take the berry all too eagerly, relishing the sweet taste on your tongue. "Can I have another?" You asks but Mikasa is already picking more, munching on a berry of her own as she places two on your palm. Yes, you will enjoy living with the Ackermans very much.

#look she's writing #snk x reader #aot x reader #mikasa ackerman x reader #mikasa x reader #mikasa ackerman #mr and mrs ackerman

29 notes · View notes

isolaradiale · 2 years ago

Text

This is an event rerun. For more information on how to participate, please check our EVENT RERUN GUIDE! If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask!

Memories in the minds of the citizens of a circle of flame that hung high in the sky persisted for seven days and seven nights, and of the city’s weather worsening over the course of that period without even a trace of explanation from the city’s creators. But that eve the state of things had worsened. The circle began to crackle as shards of flame began to rain down from its center.

“It’s the end of the world!”, one NPC cried, sparking panic among their fellow citizens as a ball of rock and fire crashed through a nearby building. It was a phenomenon that was taking place across the city’s entirety as mass panic set in. Hour after hour destruction reigned down upon the people with no end nor solution in sight. A monster arose, as did a voice to guide them. But during their last stand... they failed. And then came 12:00AM.

YOU DID YOUR BEST... BUT IT WAS NOT ENOUGH. FOR NOW I’VE SEALED IT. TWO WEEKS. YOU HAVE TWO WEEKS TO FIND THE STRENGTH TO STAND AGAIN... ELSE THE WORLD YOU ONCE KNEW WILL BE LOST FOREVER. PUT ASIDE YOUR WEAKNESS AND LOOK FOR WAYS TO JOIN HANDS. IF YOU INSIST ON TURNING YOUR BACKS TO YOUR COMRADES, THE CYCLE WILL MERELY REPEAT.

The circle of flames descended, expanded, consumed what was left of the island in its pitch black void. And for the citizens? Darkness. All encompassing, as if they’d been thrown into an absence of consciousness. Whatever the monster had been looking for in the hole, it had found it.

While they slept the city was reconstructed. Razed land reborn, a program booted up over the city’s landscape. To some it might have been familiar, to others it was a brand new concept: Fantasia.

When the people saw light next they’d find their surroundings, and quite possibly their own bodies, reborn. Fantasia was a fantasy realm, a remnant of a ‘harmless’ prank from a distant world, but this time it had set itself up upon Spirale. Through whose command? It remained a mystery.

Upon ‘waking’ the people of the city would find things very different from what they recalled. No longer was the city one of modern technology, but a realm of fantasy and magic separated into four kingdoms. Each kingdom was at war with one another, their people very different and desiring a sacred treasure known as the Fruit of Beginnings. Those torn from other worlds, in the eyes of the kings and rewritten NPCs, were to serve as heroes for their kingdom. Swearing allegiance they were supposed to either work or fight for the place of their choosing.

But that wasn’t all. Some would find themselves redesigned as well. Champions had to look the part of their world, did they not? And so Fantasia reformed the outsiders into denizens more fitting of the realm. Each kingdom is known for its primary race and primary monster race, and characters might find themselves reincarnated as one of them. Their powers retained, of course, but on top of them a number of talents unique to these races.

So welcome to this fantasy game -- nay, welcome to your new reality. It’s survival of the fittest in this world, and allegiance is key.

Welcome to part one of FANTASIA WAR, Isola’s first fantasy event!

First, a tl;dr:

the entire city has been re-purposed into a fantasy setting for the duration of this event.

characters are expected to ally themselves with one of the four kingdoms and aid in their efforts, be it as a soldier or a worker at home

there are eight fantasy races (four humanoid and four monster) available to have your character become upon waking at the event’s beginning; additionally you can just remain in your current form if you wish

each race has its own unique abilities and magic is a common skill in this world

all worldbuilding information can be found on this post

starting next week we’ll be posting quests that can be taken with small rewards as payout

part 1 is just an adjustment period to flesh out your character ideas for the setting

GENERAL FAQ A separate FAQ post will be made specific to the event once questions start rolling in. Due to the event’s nature we expect to receive plenty of them and will be using them to clarify world building and rules as necessary.

Will there be a reward for participating in this event? There is an unlockable reward associated with the raid segment of the event that will come in pt2. We will be making the requirements a little more lax though, so we'll have more information when that goes up!

Do we have to pick a fantasy race for our characters? Can they remain normal? You don’t need to change your character! It’s just a fun option for those interested. That said, you cannot change your fantasy race after picking it so choose carefully!

Are powers retained during this event? What if we pick a fantasy race? Regardless of picking a fantasy race or not your character will retain their normal abilities that they’ve unlocked in Isola. The only outliers to this would be abilities specific to your own character’s unique physiology. For example if a character was an android they wouldn’t have the technological merits if you changed them in a Beastkin, but you could substitute that loss with the natural strength of that race. Additionally if a power is deemed OP (such as conceptual abilities or mass item production) they will be locked for the entire event duration. Weapons will be retained no matter what, and any technological inconsistencies will be handwaved as ‘champion privilege’.

Can we use magic? Yes! All fantasy races can use magic. A list of available spells can be found here.

Are there any risks to entering a kingdom you aren’t allied with? As the kingdoms are all at war, champions are required to tread lightly in domain that isn’t allied. Many NPCs take the forms of guards that are fluent in the otherwordly visitors and their allegiances, and won’t hesitate to attack or attempt to apprehend those they deem a threat.

What about a ceasefire zone? Ahaha, no.

What if my character wouldn’t side with a kingdom and would choose to fly solo? You’re free to attempt this, but due to the world’s nature NPCs will always see you as aligned with a kingdom. This status isn’t removable.

Can we meet with the kings / queens? Not at the moment, no. For the most part their locations are unknown, orders given to their people from the shadows.

What happens if your character dies? They’ll respawn in their kingdom’s primary town.

Do our characters still have their cellphones? Yes, and service is still up (somehow). It’s just... NPCs will try really hard to take them from you if you aren’t careful.

Should we put all of this event info for our characters somewhere? We recommend you make a post with all the relevant information!

Anything happening with the hole? Hole? What hole? The hole is gone, filled by a gigantic tree whose leaves and branches stretch out against the sky. There isn’t a place in any of the kingdoms where you cannot see it. And yet... the NPCs seem to have no idea it’s there. Hm.

I have a lot of questions! And we have answers! We’ll be composing a separate FAQ post shortly, but until then start sending your questions to our event sideblog so the dash isn’t overwhelmed. We will not be taking event questions via the main masterlist blog.

What was that about a circle of flame for a week in the event description? When the event was originally run we teased a circle of fire in the city sky a week before the event started. Memories of this circle have been included in the simulation of the event, so your character will remember seeing it.

How long will this event be running? This event is an extremely meaty event with two parts and a raid battle portion, and so we will be running it for four weeks to give everyone a fair chance to participate. A such it will end at 11:59:59PM on October 20th.

As a reminder... Powerless characters are often allowed to utilize their Fantasia War forms during combat events so if you haven't made one for them, this would be a good chance to do so!

Also please keep in mind... Because of how renewals work, your character should have no memories of the Fantasia portal in the Intraspace, which is a recreation of this event's setting.

#isola event #isola event rerun #isola event: the fantasia war pti

30 notes · View notes

alphaeverestbasecamp · 1 year ago

Text

Planning Your Langtang Valley Trek - 11 Days: Tips and Advice

The Langtang Valley Trek is one of Nepal's most accessible and beautiful trekking routes, offering a blend of stunning natural landscapes, cultural insights, and a sense of adventure. Situated north of Kathmandu, close to the Tibetan border, the Langtang Valley is often described as the "Valley of Glaciers." Here is a comprehensive guide to planning your 11-day trek to ensure a memorable and smooth experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Preparation:

Flights and Visas: Ensure your flights to Tribhuvan International Airport are booked well in advance. A tourist visa for Nepal can be obtained on arrival or online.

Accommodation: Book a hotel in Kathmandu for your first and last nights. Thamel is a popular area for trekkers, with numerous lodges and guesthouses.

Permits: Obtain your Langtang National Park permit and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

Activities:

Rest and acclimatize after your journey.

Explore Kathmandu’s heritage sites, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Durbar Square.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi| Duration: 7-8 hours

Route:

Start early to avoid traffic. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes and terraced fields.

Roads can be bumpy and challenging, especially during the monsoon season.

Tips:

Consider hiring a private jeep for comfort, though public buses are a more budget-friendly option.

Pack snacks and water, as stops along the way can be limited in options.

Day 3: Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel| Duration: 6-7 hours| Elevation: 1,503m to 2,470m

Route:

Begin your trek along the Langtang Khola (river). The trail passes through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red pandas and langur monkeys.

Tips:

Start early to avoid the afternoon heat.

Wear sturdy trekking boots and carry trekking poles for stability.

Day 4: Lama Hotel to Langtang Village| Duration: 6-7 hours| Elevation: 2,470m to 3,430m

Route:

Continue along the river through forests and across several suspension bridges.

The trail opens up, revealing breathtaking views of the Langtang Lirung peak (7,227m).

Tips:

Take breaks to acclimatize and enjoy the scenery.

Stay hydrated and watch for signs of altitude sickness.

Day 5: Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa| Duration: 4-5 hours| Elevation: 3,430m to 3,870m

Route:

The trail gradually ascends, with spectacular views of snow-capped mountains.

Visit the ancient Kyanjin Gompa monastery and the local cheese factory.

Tips:

Spend the afternoon exploring the village and surrounding areas.

Taste the locally made yak cheese.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Kyanjin Gompa

Activities:

Kyanjin Ri Hike: Climb to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) for panoramic views of the Langtang range.

Tserko Ri: For a more challenging hike, ascend Tserko Ri (5,000m) early in the morning.

Tips:

Take it slow to adjust to the altitude.

Enjoy the local culture and interact with the villagers.

Day 7: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel| Duration: 6-7 hours

Route:

Retrace your steps back to Lama Hotel.

Descending is generally easier, but be mindful of your knees.

Tips:

Use trekking poles to reduce impact on your joints.

Stay vigilant for wildlife and changing weather conditions.

Day 8: Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi|Duration: 5-6 hours

Route:

Continue descending through the lush forests.

Reflect on your journey and take in the final views of the Langtang Valley.

Tips:

Enjoy a leisurely pace and take plenty of photos.

Celebrate your trek with fellow trekkers upon arrival.

Day 9: Drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu| Duration: 7-8 hours

Route:

Return to Kathmandu by jeep or bus.

The journey offers another chance to enjoy Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

Tips:

Prepare for a long, bumpy ride and bring entertainment or a good book.

Arrange your accommodation in Kathmandu in advance.

Day 10: Rest and Explore Kathmandu

Activities:

Sightseeing: Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square.

Shopping: Thamel offers a variety of souvenirs, trekking gear, and handicrafts.

Cultural Experience: Enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural shows.

Tips:

Hire a local guide for a more enriching experience.

Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of crowded areas.

Day 11: Departure

Preparation:

Confirm your flight details and arrange transport to the airport.

Reflect on your trek and plan your next adventure!

Tips:

Ensure all your documents and souvenirs are packed safely.

Leave early for the airport to avoid any last-minute rush.

Additional Tips and Advice for the Langtang Valley Trek

Health and Safety

Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations. Consult with your healthcare provider.

Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and know the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Consider carrying Diamox as a precaution.

Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Packing List

Clothing: Layered clothing, including thermal wear, waterproof jacket, down jacket, trekking pants, gloves, and a warm hat.

Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots and multiple pairs of socks.

Gear: Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures), trekking poles, a headlamp, and a daypack.

Personal Items: First aid kit, water purification tablets, toiletries, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.

Food and Accommodation

Tea Houses: Accommodation along the Langtang Valley Trek is primarily in tea houses, which offer basic lodging and meals.

Meals: Expect a variety of dishes, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and momo (dumplings). Carry snacks for energy during trekking.

Water: Always drink purified or boiled water. Carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets or a filter.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos, and respect local traditions.

Language: Learning a few basic Nepali phrases can enhance your interaction with locals.

Environmental Responsibility: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Dispose of waste properly and minimize your environmental impact.

Guides and Porters

Hiring a Guide: A local guide can enhance your trekking experience with insights into the region's culture, history, and natural environment. They also ensure your safety and navigation.

Porters: Consider hiring a porter to carry your heavy gear, allowing you to enjoy the trek more comfortably and supporting the local economy.

Final Thoughts

The Langtang Valley Trek is a journey through some of Nepal’s most stunning landscapes, rich in culture and natural beauty. By planning carefully and following these tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable adventure. Embrace the local culture, respect the environment, and take the time to savor every moment of this incredible trekking experience. Happy trekking!

#Tsum valley trek distance #best time to visit nepal #road trip #vacation #buddhist pilgrimage sites in nepal

2 notes · View notes

magic-is-something-we-create · 2 years ago

Text

ACTAEA K'RON - The Millennium Saga [Firebreathers ; Echoseers ; Goddess-Touched]

They tell me he is the King, as they show me the proper way to bow: one knee to the floor, head down, and left hand cupped just below my collarbone. They tell me he has been for nine hundred and thirty-five years as we sit quietly to his right at a table bedecked in blue and gold to tell everyone of our importance, our power. They tell me he will be until the time when there is no one left to rule as they guide me into the halls of sunset and aspen forest with a silk-gloved hand. And they tell me he will love me as a daughter, as they pat my head and assure me they will return in a few hours.

Basics:

She/her - Cis woman AroAce** - 72 (~80 on Earth) Rill Ehlf - Plant Mage **Note: she doesn't know it's not just a thing she needs to get over. This fact is, as it happens, a major contributor to her villainy.

Where she begins:

Actaea K'Ron is a contentious person. We hear of her first from Ember's own musings of dislike, and then from Annie's prattling gossip of conflict in the noble courts.

And then we learn she is the reason Isa is mute. The reason Lakia is missing an eye. The reason Elar was willing to risk a death warrant and manhunt rather than stay any longer in her presence, after she was told to start preparing for her beloved war to end in a treaty.

And then she shows up, and she proves she is willing to hurt more than just her family.

She wants her son and his spawn to suffer; she will hunt their friends, too.

She will chase them across the world.

What she finds herself confronting:

Actaea is the Spymaster and General of the Mae Ehlven military, and Peace of the Rill--a duty and title she's neglected in favor of war with Deltierin on the Mae Ehlves' behalf for the last two decades. She is also, in honor of an agreement Rillmother Veratrum and King Tieling came to almost a thousand years ago, the King's right hand.

She wants nothing more than to please him, because that is all she wanted from Veratrum.

She failed.

And so she will take it out on the world, because if she cannot have love as a daughter, she will settle for fear.

Important connections:

Family: K'Ron Elar (son), Isa, and Lakia (grandchildren) (all disowned). Eternal Rillmother Veratrum (30th generation descendant).

Friends: Edgar Trueheart (a colleague in Avatica), Genli Rainer (her lieutenant), Eternal Tieling (one-sided devotion)

Enemies: K'Ron Elar (she never wanted him), Isa (she never wanted Elar to make her mistake), and Lakia (the girl that shouldn't exist). [REDACTED] (for refusing her demands). Eternal Rillmother Veratrum (for withholding affection), Eternal Arthur Shieldstone (she thinks him naive). Ember Timber (the street rat who got away).

MUSIC

Themes - Shape of Lies by Eternal Eclipse, Fountain of Passages by Audiomachine, Dusk of War by Audiomachine, Paul Dinletir, and Uyanga Bold

Vibes - Reaper by Glaceo and RIELL, Villains Pt. 1 by Emma Blackery, Monster by Willyecho

#writeblr #character intro #wip intro #original writing #original character #the millennium saga #tms intros #snip

6 notes · View notes

afairmaiden · 2 years ago

Text

An Acceptable Sacrifice, Part 2

for the @inklings-challenge

[part 1]

(I decided this would fit into a much larger work which definitely will not be finished anytime soon, but I wanted to post a second part at least so it wouldn't end on a total cliffhanger.)

***

Excerpt from the journal of Daniel Andersen, age 33, son of Isaac Andersen, first pastor of the Remnant

Saturday, October 20, mid-morning—

Day 67

We made camp late last night, mere minutes before the storm hit us full force. Under normal circumstances, I should have said it was madness to drive the horses so far, and in such weather, but there was no help for it. It was shortly after we set out that clouds and thick darkness descended upon us without warning, and the terrain went from bad to worse as fields gave way to forest and the road narrowed, the trees on either side growing so close together that it would have been impossible to turn around.

We did not doubt it was by the grace of God that there was a road at all, and moreover, that the horses seemed remarkably calm throughout the whole ordeal, as though they were being guided through the darkness by surer hands than ours, and brighter lights than our feeble lanterns. It seemed most appropriate, therefore, that we should continue in prayer, and we employed the psalms well for this purpose, along with a number of hymns.

We went along steadily for some hours until we came to a clearing, where the horses stopped and would go no further. Brendan tended to them while Nathaniel inspected the wagons, and Edmund and I set up the tent and built a small fire. We knew then it was providence, but now in the light of day, as we see large branches fallen all around us, it seems nothing short of a miracle that we made it through without a scratch, and no damage or loss of cargo.

Strong winds and rain continued all night, and only began to let up around daybreak. It was decided that today should be our Sabbath rest—our last, God willing, before we reach home. Edmund had us worried this morning. He went out before breakfast to inspect the area, and upon his return stood looking over the map so intently, with such an expression of utter bewilderment on his face that we all began to brace for the worst, but at last he laughed and declared we have made such excellent time, we are now a full two days ahead of schedule and three days from home. If all goes well, we may reach the abbey by Monday night, and cross the river the following morning.

Our thanksgiving at the news was great indeed. We have certainly had a fine adventure to be talked of for years to come, and the Lord has blessed and prospered us on our way, but now with home so near, we are all quite ready to be done with it. (It is worth noting as well that we are running low on supplies. We have a bit of salt pork and fish and a few potatoes left, and I should not be surprised to come across some fruit trees on our way, so there is no cause for complaint or concern, but after talking it over, we have agreed that our next meal should be Monday afternoon at the earliest.)

My only concern now is for Brendan. He has regained much of his natural cheerfulness over the past few weeks, and since our last talk has largely kept his recklessness in check, but I thought I saw something of the old pensiveness about him as he went about his work. Poor boy—I trust that when it comes to the point, he and Joy will be able to meet again as friends, but I know such heartbreak is not easily gotten over. No doubt it was for the best. I should not have minded having him for a nephew, but the more I think of it, the more I am convinced they would not have suited each other. I don't wish to meddle in such matters, but if this keeps up, I have half a mind to drop a hint to Edmund, for his Dorothy is of a suitable age, and unattached to my knowledge. May God grant them both happiness, and us a safe journey home.

Sunday, October 21, late—

Day 68

He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. (Deut. 10:18-19)

I did not think, when I read these words this morning, that we would so soon have an opportunity to put them into practice.

We set out early, immediately after prayer, being eager to make as much progress as we could so long as we had light. We were somewhat dismayed, therefore, when we saw more clouds approaching around noon. When we stopped for our long rest, Edmund checked his instruments and found that the barometric pressure had dropped significantly, and the temperature was also falling.

As we were discussing how we ought to proceed, Brendan noticed something strange in the woods. We had come to a hilly region, and the road, though straight, was now somewhat precarious, dropping off sharply to our right. Thus it was with some alarm that we watched him jump over the embankment and go scrambling down toward something we could neither see nor hear. For a few moments, he too seemed to disappear, but at last he answered our calls with the news of a man in dire need of help.

Nathaniel carefully made his way down to assist them, having secured a rope to a tree, while Edmund and I set to work building a fire and making a quick stew, supposing (correctly) that anyone out in such conditions would likely as not be half-starved and half-frozen. It was some time before we saw them come up again, supporting the frail figure of a young man between them.

His name, we learned, was Benson, but that was about all he could tell us, being in a sort of fearful delirium from hunger and cold. He did not appear to be seriously injured, but looked as though he'd been walking, or perhaps running, through the woods for some time. His clothes were strange, resembling a uniform of sorts, but the material seemed to be of exceptionally poor quality and highly unsuitable for the weather, and he carried no supplies. He could give no hint as to where he had come from or how he had ended up in such a state, and as such questions only served to agitate him further, we thought it best not to press him.

Brendan and Nathaniel did not understand in the slightest, and I could only venture a guess, but Edmund, being older, seemed to know something about it, and upon closer examination, pointed out something like dust on the collar of his jacket, and a certain mark on his left shoulder. Precisely what it meant, he would not say, but he persuaded him to take his jacket off, and offered him his own coat instead. He proceeded to throw it into the fire and ordered the boys, in a manner most unlike him, to go down to one of the streams below and wash well, taking care to watch for anything unusual.

Once our guest had warmed up a bit and got some food in him, he began to come to his senses a little, but now exhaustion overtook him. As the storm seemed to be holding off for the time being, we resolved to make speed for the abbey, and Edmund and I began to talk seriously of leaving a couple of crates behind so that we might have room for him to lie down, but Nathaniel, though not opposed to making such sacrifices if necessary, pointed out that it would be far easier and safer to make a bed on top of the crates and secure it with ropes so that he would not fall. Thus it was with some effort that we managed to haul him up, but at last he lay sleeping as comfortably as we could make him under a pile of a blankets, and shielded from the wind by the tent.

We had not gone far when we came across one of his companions, this time lying almost directly in our path, and so still that at first we feared he was dead. He was missing his jacket and his boots, had a number of cuts and scratches all over, and did not seem to notice the sound of our approach, but stirred feebly upon being touched. As the light was now beginning to fade, we wasted no time, but Brendan got him to drink a little water while I tended the worst of his injuries and wrapped him up in my coat, and in short time we had him bundled up on top of the wagon as well.

I asked Edmund whether he thought there might be others around, but he said he did not think it likely. Besides, he had noticed something I had not—a journal in the man's pocket, only slightly damp from the rain. Its contents were largely a mystery and showed evidence of great confusion on his part (how he could think today ought to be Thursday is entirely beyond me, to say nothing of the grim hopelessness that seemed to permeate every page), but the last few entries were clear. There were only two of them, and they had somehow been separated a couple nights ago.

With that, we set off with all the speed that prudence would allow and once again continued late into the night. Wind and rain once more assailed us, but our way remained clear, and at last we came to the first signs of civilization we had seen in some time. We went a little further before coming to a small country church, sadly neglected by all appearances, but more than suitable for our needs.

Here we have found an abundance of firewood, no shortage of candles, and as I expected, even an apple tree just outside. We have built a good fire and settled in for the night, though I do not expect to sleep much. Our guests sleep fitfully, being plagued by nightmares as well as a low fever, and given the condition they are in, it was decided that we should take turns keeping watch over them. I have a few hours left before Brendan takes the next watch, and as I have now concluded recording all the news of the day, I shall put my pen down and betake myself to prayer for the rest of my time.

Tuesday, October 23, early—

Thank God for hospitable neighbors. After a long night and a late start due to the weather, we rode all day and arrived at the abbey near midnight. The watchmen saw us while we were still a good way off, and we approached to the sound of ringing bells and lights in every window.

We were met by a number of the brothers, some of whom took our horses while the others showed us inside. Among them was a doctor who immediately took charge of our guests, whose condition had improved little throughout the day, and who now stood, with great difficulty, in a sort of stupor, so that they were hardly aware of what was happening. The others showed us to a room and brought in basins and hot water, as well as tea and hot cider and all manner of pies, which were much appreciated as we had eaten nothing all day.

We spoke briefly with the abbot, telling him of our journey and what we knew of the strangers, before offering the horses and wagons, as well as a number of the crates, as thanks for their hospitality and their assistance in crossing the river in the morning. He declined at first, but at last accepted half the number, in exchange for a quantity of cloth, paper, oil, and wine. He told us, moreover, what he knew of the latest happenings at home. We rejoiced to hear that all was well, and again that we should know for ourselves tomorrow.

I have come to the point where words utterly fail me. I have not begun to say even half of what I am feeling, and I know that any attempt to do so now that sleep is coming upon me would be woefullly inadequate, so I will say only this:

I thank God for the grace He has shown us thus far in providing for all our needs and countless blessings besides, and pray He would grant any strangers among us knowledge of the same grace and happiness.

#inklingschallenge #team tolkien #genre: time travel #theme: food #theme: drink #theme: shelter #story: unfinished

3 notes · View notes

bargarraninc · 1 year ago

Text

teddy bear waltz; visit 16, dec 3rd, 2023

THE INFAMOUS BIRTHDAY DOUBLE; Turning 20 at the McKittrick. PART II: THE EVENING

QUICK NOTES: - Long recap, we know the drill. Yes, I continue to spew analytical nonsense about Malcolm in this one too — love that silly detective. - The 1-1s discussed in this post are Malcolm and the Taxidermist. Spoiler portions are clearly marked by red headings!

TL;DR: Holy shit Tim Creavin.

Thanks to a momentous birthday gift of a spoiler from Mr. Tim Creavin himself, I stand in line for the evening show, with my Ovest arancini in hand, visibly trembling with adrenaline, excitement and a little bit of the cold despite having just spent three hours running around the hotel. A shoutout must be made to the lovely folks in line with me who I tried to convince (for the better part of 30 minutes) to dedicate themselves to a loop with Malcolm. It brought me immense joy watching their familiar silhouettes rushing behind Malcolm later on in the show.

Entry is quick and we make it into bar alongside the Oz’s, greeted by the lovely Katie and Audrey. I have brought a friend with me to this show, so we get water and loiter in the correct spot to be on the first elevator up. We talk about our small game plan — ballroom, up with Malcolm (where I was hoping she would get the 1-1) and then through the floors for a quick walkthrough before we split. Aces are called and we all shuffle in.

Spoiler in mind, I am already giggling as I put the mask on — excited for what I was (rightly) sure would be an incredibly entertaining show. The elevator door opens as Karen finishes her spiel and it is Mr. Tim Creavin as good ol’ James Bargarran. Tim’s Taxi is a drawler. He lazily gestures us in and leans against the lift-wall during his usual spiel, in which he points at me and my friend holding hands and asks for us to ‘detach’. The body language, the characterisation is so different from his sweet (if nervy) Malcolm countenance that I am immediately floored. From moment one, I know this is going to be a very Taxi-heavy visit to the Hotel.

We are all let out onto 3rd with a sardonic wave and I guide my guest to move down to ballroom through the Macbeth’s apartment for those stairwells are emptier. Not realising just how quickly we’d been let in, we almost rush past Nate Carter’s Macbeth doing the graveyard solo. Thankfully, I catch movement out of the side of my eye, so me and her stand there entirely alone watching Nate gracefully twirl, entangled in a fight seemingly with himself. It is gorgeous and I am reminded that Nate is truly a star — what a beautiful Macbeth. We descend with Macbeth to the ballroom and I take up my usual post by Malcolm’s trench on instinct.

As all the dancing kicks off, I am made giddy by the night’s cast — Will is on as Malcolm and the coven is Mio! Sexy, Michaela! Bald (a personal favourite) and Aaron! Boy. My friend latches onto the Banquo and Sexy duo as her favourites but I am centred in on Will’s Malcolm and his little shimmying dance with Aaron, both of them not letting the other take lead in the dance, raring up against rather competitively.

This happy, beautiful scene comes to an end and Will, as always, absolutely books it out of ballroom, first stumbling up from crypt and then seemingly running. We break after him, only a crowd of 4-5, my friend lagging behind already as I try my best to keep pace with Will and his ridiculously long legs. Despite the pain of being reminded of how short I am, Will’s scramble up from ballroom is my favourite out of all the Malcolms. It is so violently physical, the groaning and the sounds of Will hitting the wall on his way up, making the whole thing seem so much more urgent. We run into the back room, Will has his antidote and Agnes enters.

Taylor Ann Massa is on as Agnes and she is a treat — so fluid and quick, flitting away from Malcolm with ease. With Taylor on, Agnes feels a little bit more in control of this situation, her movements more calculatingly flirtatious. Will picks her up a little as they kiss and the lighting makes the whole scene look dreamy — my friend adores it, she returns to watch it in the next loop as well. Agnes rushes away, this show not taking anyone with her, and Will (along with the now amassed crowd) runs back to the backroom, egg in hand. I position my friend in front of me, hoping her still catching breath would indicate her loyalty to Will enough to get her the 1-1. This does not work and for the second time on the 3rd of December, I am dragged by a Malcolm into the room of ash and eggs.

MALCOLM 1-1 STARTS HERE

WILL WILL WILL — I am such a huge fan. I have said this many a time before but Will’s Malcolm is a scary, scary bitch and I eat up every second of it like a starved woman at her last supper. Every moment of this 1-1 feels tonally different to the exact same one I had earlier in the day — drenched in pure, hostile suspicion rather than the more naïve seeming near-curiosity of Tim. Will’s walk to the curtain is a proper hold, keeping me in line, instead of a gentle side-hug of sorts and when we are in the room, there is no softness in the querying look Malcolm implores you with. The egg pick is rapid but the breaking is slower, perfectly synced to the soundscape in a way where the tension of knowing what is going to happen but not when makes your heart quicken. Will searches through the ash, less desperate and more sure — as if he knows I know something that he doesn’t.

I am pinned to the wall tightly, eyes widening on instinct. Will does the dialogue — again, things are different and I am beyond thrilled to see these two conflicting versions of this beloved character so close together. I adore Will’s vocal choice in this scene — the gruffness, the difficult tone. For some reason, I am reminded of a Good Cop-Bad Cop shtick except Tim is Anxious Cop and Will is Angry Cop. I refuse to break eye contact, enthralled by Will’s ability to communicate sheerly through body language. There is no stumbling or clawing (as if tortured and asking for help) like with Tim, Will’s choking up of the feather is frenzied and vicious. Shit is pure daunting. The lights go off, there is a tight grasp around my shoulders (rather than a damning hug) as the last lines are delivered and then I’ve lost Will, who moves at insane speeds and is gone before I squeeze my eyes open.

MALCOLM 1-1 ENDS HERE

I make it down to Duncan discovery right as Malcolm discovers the feather and despite all of my times seeing this scene, the goosebumps return as if on cue. There is something about the gravity of this scene with an older Malcolm — this beautifully soul-crushing world weariness attached to it. It is not the heartbroken crumbling of a young son but the disparaged understanding of an older one — well-aware of his father’s mortality from the start, but beyond angry at the manner of death. I watch Will! Malcolm, Elias! Macduff and Omri! Banquo bring Andrew P’s Duncan down to the crypt, enjoying the sheer height at which Andrew P was hoisted due to how tall the Boys™ are. The suspicious look at Banquo in the crypt is beyond perfect — a clear sign of Malcolm’s growing distrust in everyone around him. I loved the glance first falling to Macduff and only slowly following the line to Banquo and the choice from Will to be the first to remove his hand — something I have never seen the younger Malcolms do.

I follow Malcolm up to Hammertime but am distracted by the reappearance of my friend. We don’t make it in to watch Hammertime as a consequence but I position us by Malcolm’s office window on High Street just as Natebeth comes screeching down the hall from Rep Bar. She clutches onto my hand, Macbeth and Macduff come running down the street and without much issue, we make it into the room. Again, I am blown away by Will’s physicality as Malcolm — every movement is sharp and gruff, in character and scary. The sound of both Malcolm and Macduff’s feet hitting the ground and them moving around the room is chillingly good — Will and Elias are perfectly synchronised. There is a moment where Malcolm stands facing this small audience and me and Will make eye contact. It is fleeting but it feels like I have been vetted and approved as innocent, as a potential co-conspirator and I am exhilarated. We dutifully follow the Boys into the office to watch them conspire the moving of the trees and then they are gone. My friend holds me in the office and tells me about watching Fulton inspect Sexy in the mortuary while I was away and as she tells me more, we walk quietly to Paisley’s.

Armed with candy (no gumdrops </3), we hang out with Bret’s Fulton — a sweet cowardly Fulton if I have ever seen one. He rushes off to pick for the 1-1, which neither of us get, and I move both me and my friend into Agnes’ apartment (which was relatively empty, expected when she is asleep) so we can see him creepily emerge. He emerges, we continue following (chowing down on sour balls) and watch him tidy up, endeared. As loop two begins (indicated to me by Malcolm moving down High Street in his fun little trench), she stays with Bret and I abandon ship to go check if Tim’s Taxi has made an appearance. He has not so again, by habit, I wander over to Malcolm’s office where Will is busy typing away on the typewriter. He has a crowd now so I don’t bother trying to squeeze in, opting to watch from the doorway. The razor scene starts (which is decidedly not my favourite) so I slip away again, going into the Taxidermist’s to say hello to our favourite stuffed animal friends.

My friend notices me on my way back and joins me so I spend a few quite minutes showing her the different strange taxidermy and the office in the back, all of which are some of my favourite set details. She is less interested in petting the moose than I am so a few pets later, we look around the apothecary (which she loves). I am distracted again by the need to pet the moose and as I do so, a stomping blur cuts past me — who else could it be other than our local nutjob, Mr. Bargarran. The noise is frightening and draws out my friend, we follow out into the office to see Tim rampaging towards Fulton, angry as all hell and my god… scary ??

Bret’s Fulton sees him coming and steps back, fear palpable and as Tim! Taxi literally kicks the door open to the shop, he disappears speedily. This Taxi is insane and I am literally paralysed into a constant gasp by the sheer manic, freakish energy of this performance. As he watches Taxi rush off, Taxi groans/ growls in frustration and rushes into High Street, body posed like a predator ready to pounce and to rip the other into shreds. Fulton appears, there is a small fight where Bret scurries away from Tim as fast as possible, disappearing with a White Mask into the funeral parlour. At this point, I am holding onto my friend’s arm in a tight grasp, gagged by this display, and I proceed to only be more stunned as Tim begins to genuinely punch the windows and doors of the parlour. I can’t help but break out into disbelieving, quiet laughter as he punches the right window hard enough that the entire panel comes clean off. I don’t think Tim could believe it either — he stepped right back, glanced at it, at the genuinely terrified crowd (in which I was trying so hard to keep it together) and then scoffed. It was beyond glorious.

I had spent the whole first hour of this show thinking about Tim C’s Malcolm, deliciously different as it is to Will’s, and about how much I loved his characterisation. Previous to this show, I had seen and for the most part, looped Tim on as Malcolm 10 times. As I told him mid-him spoiling the Taxi surprise, I had never had the luck of seeing him on as anything else so in my mind, I had formulated his Taxi to be very similar to Vik’s in energy — mildly threatening (for obviously taxidermy) but mostly goofy fun. THIS was not what I was expecting at all and the confidence with which Tim carried the character of this feverishly riotous nutjob blew me allllll the way away. The aggression in the body language — the slight hunch in his walk, the constant clenching of his fingers, the crazy eyes — was otherworldly. My commitment to two-looping this Taxi only grew every second I saw of this performance, my entire being incensed by the need to watch this wacko do all the strange shit I knew was coming. I was not disappointed at all. AT ALL.

From my own rampant chicken-scrawl notes from the day of, here are a list of highlights from Mr. Creavin’s Taxidermist in the first full loop he was out.

The bone-themed art piece he made by sticking all the dead leaves and flowers from the tray into a skeleton to create a Taxidermist’s bouquet.

The little square made out of all his tools that he kept watching me try to fix and continuing to mess its symmetry up on purpose.

When he grabbed the sharpest looking bone he could find and kept circling it around his skin, before holding it like a dagger and moving towards the door of the shop, pointing it at Fulton threateningly (long enough my friend thought we were about to witness a with-bone murder)

His insistence on straightening the little dinosaur and then running past it and wacking it.

PUNCHING THE VIRGIN MARY STATUE????

Stomping around exclusively — this man did not walk anywhere.

When Bret Fulton was in his 1-1, Tim swivelled around into the Fulton Tailor Shop, slammed all of the little crosses off the wall, threw drawers everywhere, played concerningly too long with the scissors and put the only red string in Fulton's box in his mouth. When Bret came back to fix the coat, he rifled through the box and Tim drooled the spool of thread (needle and all) out onto the table. BRET'S FACE...

Fondling the hammer while sitting in the office before taking it off the wall, holding it for some time and then putting it back.

Kicking the cemetery dirt instead of digging through it, leading to it being all over the audience (who were all fucking petrified of him).

Pulling out many many things from the inside-shop moose’s nose — including the blood will have blood note.

The smug little look he shot people when he very smoothly pulled his first 1-1 pull into the room, smoothly enough that even they seemed shocked.

While Tim C Taxi was in the 1-1, I slipped down to 2, wanting to check on our dear pal Porter and to see who was on. I had spent the majority of my show in the stairwells with Malcolm and then on 4 with Taxi and didn’t want to be left unawares for writing the cast list after. I amble down and who do I see? VIK. Most shows, this discovery would end any other plans but I had committed myself to the nutjob upstairs so I let myself stay for only long enough to watch the phonebooth dance. Aaron and Vik make for an amazing BW-Porter pair and Vik came across as much bolder, leaning in actively, with Aaron’s relatively kinder Boy than with Noah’s mean one (the only other combination I have seen). The 1-1 pull took place by Lost Luggage and while Vik looked at me, they (excitingly!!!!) took the loveliest older guest (who I had been talking to in line outside) in instead.

Taking this as my sign for a natural transition back upstairs, I returned to Four to watch Tim (as mentioned in the bullet points) cleaning his tools and pissing me off by messing up their symmetry. During the cleaning sequence, he had about 2-3 people in the shop including me but as Lady Macduff made her entrance, this number quickly grew to 15-20. Only a few who arrived with her left as she did, waiting around to see Tim C do something interesting. Having moved away for Lady Duff’s scene, I stood at the corner of the shop counter, arms resting on top and Tim moved outwards, gesturing for me to remove my arms. I follow instructions and as he rests the door down, letting it go with a thud, he takes my hand. There is a short pause, I nod as we lock eyes and then again with a quiet, smug smirk, we disappear into the Boy shower room.

TAXIDERMIST 1-1 STARTS HERE

The second we are in this room, the threatening vibe of this Taxi is more potent. I had only ever had this 1-1 once before with Vik, who again (in my mind) is an incredibly non-threatening Taxi. Tim’s Taxi was quieter, it felt like I was someone who was being inspected, scientifically broken down into benefits and weaknesses. For a minute, I feel strangely foreign in this situation, slightly overwhelmed by the intensity of this dim room. Tim takes my mask off, and in what I believe is a habit of his, ducks his head slightly to see my face before its entirely off. The familiarity of this (especially just from that morning) is centring and I break into a nervous smile — this is a theatrical performance, there is no need to be afraid.

He nods and I feel the air relax a little — now that I am less tense, I am able to enjoy the scene a whole lot more. Taxi moves my arms up and down, inspecting still but I don’t feel stiff and it is easy for me to follow the dramatic flow. He, very gently, leads me into the dark cubicle and sits me down, telling me to stay still as he leaves to wash his hands. The sound of water rushing starts and like in my previous instance in this room, I peek through the gap to see what Taxi is up to. While Vik had been by the sink, possibly actually washing their hands, Tim was just standing around which made me unconsciously chuckle. Tim moves back into the cubicle seamlessly in the dark and as the light comes on, I jump a little.

The injection comes out and for a second, I am convinced by the way that he looks at the needle and by his prior, well-established fascination with sharp things, that he is going to prick himself on it or inject it or something insane. Instead, he brings it down, squirting the dark green onto my beloved beloved gumdrops. Both are covered entirely in the green, eliminating choice, so I grab the one nearer to me, give a cursory nod at Taxi and begin to chew. The green stains are all over my hands and as I look up expecting Taxi to eat the other, he simply pushes the tray away and smiles wickedly. I gasp and suddenly we are standing up, the cubicle door is pushed open and we are facing the moose inside. Dialogue is delivered that I cannot fully recall but in a rough, manic manner that makes my body shudder. I am commanded — “Come with me” — and I take Tim’s hands, pulled out of the shower-room and through into the rave. The pull is powerful but I am relatively used to being dragged by Tim C as Malcolm so I find my footing quickly.

TAXIDERMIST 1-1 ENDS HERE

At the rave, Tim! Taxi quite literally shoves unwilling guests out of the way, pushing us mostly to the front. The crowd is incredibly pushy but thanks to Tim’s death grip on my shoulder, I survive to watch the raise up of Sexy by the rest of the coven. I feel the grip lighten as the scream starts and I follow Taxi straight out — I have seen the rave in the morning twice and Hour Six in the hotel no longer have the capacity for it. PLUS, he is making his way down to my favourite Taxi scene: the Teddy Bear. There is absolutely no one around as we go down the stairs to 3rd and I witness my friend loitering around in Macduff’s office on pure chance as me and Taxi skate by to the children’s bedroom. I grab her and rush over, watching Tim’s green-stained hands deftly stitch the bone into the poor bear.

Taxi finishes up and stomps over (as is key) to the front of the apartment fixing his own tie as well as the bear’s bow in the mirror. There is a quiet moment where me and my friend stand behind him, all visible in the mirror and he looks up, makes eye contact and then fixes his hair. Once he’s satisfied, Taxi picks up the bear perfectly on cue to the soundscape beginning to play a sweet waltz number and WALTZES THE LITTLE BEAR. Adorable, even if the bear has a bone in it and he is a psycho. We watch relatively endeared and leave with Tim after he places the bear upside down on the sofa.

As we get up to fourth, there is a waiting crowd of curious folk in the shop but Taxi slips straight into the office instead, opting not to clean up his messy bouquet and instead…. take a nap. Legs up on the desk, dead squirrel over his eyes like a mask, there are about twenty of us who stand around watching the man doze before he is up again. The dead squirrel, quite unfortunately for Elspeth-the-fox-lovers like me, goes over the her snout and Taxi stumbles over to the much beloved moose. We all watch, genuinely petrified and personally concerned for Tim’s lack of germ awareness, as he smooches for quite some time the Moose. A white mask turns around and leaves — it lasts long enough for that. Again, Tim C Taxi has left me completely gagged.

He turns around as the makeout… finally ends and we lock eyes. The hand goes out and I am being walked down for the second show in a row. I struggle down the stairs with my skirt because the people behind us seem to not understand personal space, which leads to Tim turning around to level glares and to grip my hand tighter so I don’t faceplant down the stairs. We get to the hanging and much like at the rave, Tim flings people out of the way until we are right up front. The normal removing unwitting White Masks from the Banquo spot process takes place and then Tim’s Taxi is right behind me, again death gripping my shoulder as Natebeth is hung.

The walkout is quick and relatively giggly. We slip away from the crowd very very quickly and as we climb up the crypt stairs, I look up at Tim, still struggling with this damn skirt, and we both stifle a laugh. We go up the stairs with him slowing down for my struggles and as we reach the Manderley, he finally laughs gleefully. I am pinned to a wall and my mask comes off before I am chuckling. We hug and I am given a little souvenir — the Blood will have Blood note. I tell Tim his Taxi is a complete nutjob and my now favourite take on the character before he slips off saying Happy Birthday.

The performance in bar by Karen was wonderful and I spent some time chuckling away with other fans from the server and with my friend (who had her own expectedly wondrous time following Vik! Porter after slipping away from Tim post-first-1-1), ending what is surely one of the best birthdays I have ever had. What a ride!

#sleep no more #sleep no more nyc #immersive theatre #the mckittrick hotel #punchdrunk #sleepnomorenyc #theatre recap #visits to the mckittrick

4 notes · View notes

heaven-s-black-box · 2 years ago

Text

Visit- ensemble

Return to File- Event Masterlist

Recovery date: July 31st, 2022

Description: Another universe in which order 66 never took place, but one of the few in which Satine Kryze and Obi-Wan end up together.

Notes: The final entry from my 2022 research project into the universe of Star Wars. You can find the first entry here.

Word count: 1 141

Back to directory

“Uncle Ben!”

“Why hello there,” Obi Wan chuckled, opening his arms to catch the twins as they barreled down the ramp.

He stumbled back as they jumped up and he quickly threw his arms under them to hold them up. They were much heavier then the last time he’d held them like this, which had been at a senate life day celebration on Kashyyyk a few months ago. Anakin hadn’t been lying when he said they were growing too fast.

Behind him, Satine covered her mouth to stifle a laugh as her husband was nearly bested by two six year olds. While he was no longer a jedi, he was not so far out of practice that watching their niece and nephew topple him wouldn’t be funny. She waved at Anakin and Padme as they descended the ramp, Anakin carrying his and Padme’s suitcases. Padme picked up the twins' bags from where they’d dropped them at the bottom of the ramp, and cleared her throat.

“Come on guys, don’t leave your bags lying about on the landing platform, it’s not safe.”

Luke and Leia looked over their shoulders and pouted as Obi-Wan put them down.

“Hello Obi-Wan,” Padme smiled, handing the twins’ their bags and ruffling their hair.

“Master.”

Anakin put the suitcases down and pulled Obi-Wan into a hug. Padme approached Satine, giving her a hug as well before the two switched.

“Are you ever going to stop calling me that?” Obi-Wan sighed, letting go of Padme.

“Never, only because it bothers you that much.”

“Aunt Satine, mom says we can join your meeting if you say yes, can we? Can we?” Luke asked.

He and Leia had pushed between their parents' legs and were now staring up at the Duchess of Mandalore. They were much bigger than she remembered them being at the life day celebration, nearly coming up to her hips.

Padme smiled sheepishly, as if she hadn’t expected the twins to remember or keep interest in the topic for this long.

“I’m sorry, but this meeting isn’t one you can join in on.” She crouched down to their level. “Perhaps the next one, we have a meeting at seven tomorrow that you can join?”

Both twins made a noise of disapproval at the early hour. They’d made the mistake of insisting they wanted to attend a seven a.m meeting before and had passed out before dinner.

“No thank you,” they both said.

“Now, let’s head home, shall we?”

Anakin picked the suitcases back up, and Padme put a hand on either twins’ back to guide them towards the speeder.

Once they’d dropped their suitcases off, Padme and Satine had left for their meeting, and Obi-Wan and Anakin decided to take the twins to a park.

“Uncle Ben, want to watch me beat dad in holochess?” Leia grinned, tugging on her uncle’s sleeve and pointing at a holo chess table under a gazebo.

“Oh, is that so? I would love to.”

He cast Anakin a sideways glance, he shrugged in response.

“I’m going to go swing,” Luke said, tugging on his dad’s sleeve and pointing at a swing set. “I won’t go far.”

“Alright, let us know when you get hungry,” he smiled, tousling his son’s hair.

Luke ran off, and Leia grabbed both Obi-Wan and Anakin’s hands to pull them off to the table.

Leia turned the table on and hopped up onto a chair while Obi-Wan pulled up an extra one to watch. Anakin made the first move.

Off by the swings, Luke noticed someone in heavy armor looking around the park. He watched, curious as to what they were doing but weary of their purpose, as they walked in one direction before stopping and spinning in a circle. Luke slowed himself down and looked over at his family, they were busy. Surely it wouldn’t hurt to ask if the person was lost.

He scooted off the swing and headed over to the stranger.

“Are you lost?” He asked, stopping a fair bit away.

The stranger looked back at him, he was twice Luke’s height and in full mandalorian armor. Not Beskar, he noticed, Beskar was shiny. Well, the helmet was Beskar, the rest was some reddish metal.

“I’m,” the voice was odd to Luke, it wasn’t natural, “looking for the Sundari Royal Palace.”

“Oh, it’s just down that way,” he pointed down the street to his right, “and up two blocks, then turn right again and it’s the big building. You can’t miss it!”

The stranger nodded, “Thanks.”

“No problem.” As the mandalorian left, he called out, “have a nice day! Enjoy your meeting!”

Back over at the holochess table, Anakin stared at the board intently as Leia moved a piece.

“I WIN!”

She smiled brightly and turned back to the swings, frowning when she didn’t see Luke. As she opened her mouth to say something, a voice spoke up from her right.

“Wow, you beat dad again?” Leia jumped and turned to find Luke hovering over her shoulder.

She giggled, “Yup!”

“Great job.” Anakin smiled, reaching out to shake her hand. “Your strategies are as brilliant as ever.”

As Leia reset the game, challenging Luke to a round, Obi-Wan leaned in close to Anakin.

“You know letting her win isn’t going to help her,” he whispered.

“I didn’t let her win… this time.”

“So you’re saying, your six year old has learned to beat the great Anakin Skywalker at holochess?”

“Sh, Padme already won’t let me-”

“Dad, can you move? I want to play.”

“Sure.”

Anakin tucked Luke into the table before something caught his eye.

“Oh look, a food stall. Obi-Wan and I are going to go get lunch, roast shatual sound okay?”

The twins nodded, already too absorbed in their game, and the adults went to get lunch.

As soon as they were out of earshot, Leia spoke up.

“Where’d you go?”

“Huh?”

“You left the swings, where’d you go?”

Luke moved a piece, taking out one of Leia’s.

“I was helping someone, they were lost.”

“Oh, you should have come gotten dad. We shouldn’t talk to strangers.”

“But how can you help people if you don’t talk to strangers?”

Leia fell silent for a moment, staring deep in thoughts at the board before moving a piece away from Luke. He chased her.

“Still, talking to strangers alone is dangerous, don’t do it again.”

“Fine,” he smiled, “I’ll come get you next time.”

“Good.”

“Oh, and I win,” Luke beamed, taking out Leia’s last piece. “Dad, Uncle Ben, look!”

He pointed at the table as Obi-Wan handed him a wrap of roast shatual in haarshun bread.

“Well, looks like you have two brilliant strategists on your hands, they're going to be quite troublesome some day. Perhaps you will finally understand how I felt.”

“I have no idea what you mean master.”

#researcher s's recovery #s's 2022 recovery project #star wars #anidala #anakin skywalker #padme amidala #luke skywalker #leia organa #obi wan x satine #obi wan kenobi #satine kryze #star wars ensemble #fluff #oneshot #sw oneshot

6 notes · View notes