#Tree Felling Canterbury

[demonic-charcuterie]

Trancy triplets x daki! Little sister (but she is nicer to them,this can be considered a part two this post: https://www.tumblr.com/griffin-flyshigh/727415436597231616/the-trancy-triples-as-older-brothers-with-a-human)

You were a were a human when you first met your brothers. You were the missing piece and you could tell from the first moment your eyes met. By then you were 17 and they must have been a few hundred years old. You met in your cousin Alois’s manor. He’s long dead now.

You rang away together into a large house in the woods. It had all you needed. You had a back yard with a large cherry blossom tree that you to three would play chess and Timber would carry you back inside on his back when you fell asleep and started drooling on the picnic blanket. They admit you were a bit spoiled. Centuries of having three demon older brothers giving you everything you ever asked for. You wanted to live in peace in the woods. You blinked and they build you a whole manor. But you deserved it, you were their baby sister. And you treated them so well, you hummed to them as you stroked their heads while she laid on your chest or in the bed with you. “I love you brothers.” You’d whisper before you would drift of to sleep. You didn’t like working for other peoples souls so they’d share theirs with you. You giggled as they tore that persons soul and they screamed and they hand fed it to you.

That cherry blossom tree was burning now. And a tall man stood over with bloody gloves was your headless body held your head in its lap and tears streamed down from your eyes. Your brothers were out and you weren’t taught as a demon like they were. They’re were holes in the walls and your pink kimono was falling off of your shoulders.

“Barely put up a fight…” a smooth silky voice said, “are you sure you’re a demon?” The man said as bright green eyes stared back at you. “Your soul should have died over a century ago.”

“Don’t give me that crap! I’m stronger than you!” You growled “So what makes you think that I’m not a demon?!”

“Sorry but you can’t be a real demon…” they said in a snarky tone.

“I’ll have you know THAT I AM A UPPER RANK DEMON!” You wailed.

“Then why are you holding your severed head d in your hands right now?” The green eyed man said pointing at you.

“Just because my heads off doesn’t mean I’ve lost yet! IM AN UPPERANK DEMON!” You screamed from your head as your body cradled your head in its lap as if trying to comfort you.

“I think it’s clear you’ve lost, in fact this wasn’t even a battle.”

“I’m just to powerful for you to comprehend!!!!” You barked at him. This was so embarrassing, what would your brothers think? When ever they’re home and an intruder comes their blood is served to you in a wine glass. “I may be weak right now, but I’m going to get even stronger!”

The green eyed man pulled out a book and placed on his glasses. “Don’t recall asking darling.”

Your fist clenched so tight that your nail dug into your palms. A lump formed into your throat when tears started pouring out of your eyes and your whimpered loudly. Suddenly…you screamed. A high pitched shriek loud enough to break glass.

(Elsewhere)

The boys froze right as they went to grab the new chessboard you asked for because last time you broke it out of a fit of rage from loosing for the 4th time. “Little sister.” Canterbury said softly as his eyes flashed pink. He grabbed the box with the chessboard then him and your other two brother bolted as fast as their legs would take you.

(Back home)

“I AM A REAL DEMON I AM! I EVEN GOT THE BLACK NAILS AND PINK EYES TO PROVE IT!” You wailed as your body slammed its fist on the floor causing the wood to splinter.

“Why are you still talking? Your life record should have started playing…”

“Die! DIE! Oh you can just die!” You screamed. “H-he cut my head off! He cut my head off! Help me…BROTHERS!!!” You begged.

Stood as if from know where your brothers stood infront of you. Timber sighed and clicked his tongue when he saw your current state.

Canterbury snd Thompson both had s blatant look of rage in their eyes. The green eyed man quickly swung his sword going for Timbers head when Timber put out his pinkie finger stopping the sword with the tip of this finger, the green eyed man when flying but but then quickly pulled himself up.

“Woowww, you survived that? I was aiming to kill. What wonderful reflexes.” Timber said blankly. He turned back to you as he head your head over your stump of a neck. Canterbury kneels down and smiled kindly. “Come now little sister. There’s no use crying about it.”

“Can’t you even manage to reattach your own head?” Thompson asked lovingly as he took your head from Timber and reattached it. “Well you haven’t always been the sharpest tool in the shed have you?” He said stroking your hair. “And oh is that a burn on your face? You need to learn to take better care of this face you know! God gifted you such a beautiful one.”

“Demons! I’ll dispose all of you if I must!” The green eyed man yelled. The boys all stood and turned to him with pure look of rage.

You whimper in the back as your ran your finger over the healing line your your neck was cut.

“You attacked our sister…unprovoked?” Timber asked barely above a whisper.

“Brother wait! He wasn’t the only harassing me! There were other green eyed man to!”

“Reapers my darling sister. Grim reapers here to collect your soul that should have burned years ago.” Canterbury said kindly to you.

“Please big brothers, kill the ones who burned me to! Kill them!, I’ve been working away over here and even though I’ve given it my all they still won’t die! I-I feel like I’ve tried everything but even then they just kept getting back up again and picking on me!” You said as your wiped tears. “They just kept bullying me and I just can’t take it anymore!”

By now three other reapers showed up and we’re all holding death scythes. “Ahh I think I understand now…” Thompson said. “Our poor little sister who was only turned a few 100 years ago was trying her very best with what little skill she had and you bullied her, that is absolutely unacceptable!”

“We’ll have to rib out all the spinal cords off those who laid a hand on her.” Timber said before pulling off his gloves and raising his fist. He glanced down at you and held out his hand right as one of the reaper started his…lawnmower? He bend down and pulled the kimono correctly onto your shoulder before turning back to them. “Now we go.”

“You’re dead!” One red head reaper said lunging towards your brothers and you pinched your eyes shut. Not even a second you felt a tapping on your shoulder and jumped. “Sister? Why are your eyes shut? Are you scared?” You gasped as your opened your eyes and saw the house in perfect condition. The lanterns where on casting a beautiful glow into their kind faces. You looked around. There was no blood, no broken wood. You slowly stood and shook your head. “B-but how? Where did-”

“Shush.” Canterbury said as he picked you up bridal style. “But brother what did you-“ you gasped when yo guy felt his hand pulled you closer to his chest. “In the morning. Perfect little sister.”

[yoreatorium]

The history of Friday The 13th

"The Death of Balder," by Danish painter Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, depicts a scene from Norse mythology. Balder (son of Odin) lies dead after being struck by a mistletoe spear thrown by Hödr, his blind brother. Hödr had been tricked by Loki, who can be seen behind him, stifling his laughter.

-

Friday the 13th has long been considered a day of bad luck, evil omens, and general misfortune in the Western world. Its influence is so widespread that one of the most well-known horror film franchises is named after the ominous day. From Norse mythology to The Canterbury Tales, let's embark on a brief journey to find out what happened to make this day so terrifying.

THE NUMBER 13

In Magic and Superstitions (1968), the author Douglas Hill recounts a Norse myth about the death of Balder. As 12 of the Norse gods host a dinner party in Valhalla, Loki (the god of mischief, trickery, and deception), who was not invited, arrives as the 13th guest. The gods are entertaining themselves by watching Hödr throw various weapons at Baldr, who is impervious to any injury. Balder's mother, the goddess Frigg, had previously made every weapon and object on Earth swear an oath to never hurt her son, after a prophetic dream in which she foresaw his death. She had, however, left out a small tree, the mistletoe, thinking it too young and unimportant for an oath to be demanded of it. Loki, who knew of this weakness, fashioned a spear from the mistletoe tree and tricked the blind Hödr into throwing it at Balder. To the horror of every god present, except for Loki, the mistletoe spear went right through Balder, killing him.

However, in the Prose Edda (the 13th-century Icelandic text considered the most complete source of our current knowledge on Norse mythology), where the story originally appears, no mention is made of either 12 gods being present or Loki being the 13th to arrive.

There are also similar Christian associations to the number 13: the tale of the Last Supper comes to mind, with Judas being thought by many to have been the 13th person to sit at the table. The Bible, however, does not mention the order in which the apostles sat.

FRIDAY AND MISFORTUNE

Friday is considered to be a day of evil portents and misfortune by some historical sources. In A Dictionary of Superstitions (1996), authors Moria Tatem and Iona Opie say Friday was long considered an unlucky day in which one should not begin journeys or start new projects, as evidenced by lines such as "and on a Friday fell all this misfortune" which are present in Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, written during the late 14th century.

Some have argued, however, that the line actually refers to the irony of the misfortune in question having happened to the protagonist - who is called a devotee of the goddess Venus - on a Friday, the day associated with the goddess in medieval astrology.

FRIDAY THE 13TH

Direct association of Friday and the number 13 seem to have popped up in sources around the mid-1800s, such as in the 1834 play Les Finesses des Gribouilles, in which a character states that being "born on a Friday, December 13th", was the source of all their misfortunes. The association is then popularized through the 20th century, possibly starting with the novel Friday, the Thirteenth (1907) by T. W. Lawson, culminating in the creation of one the most popular horror franchises of all time - Jason's hockey mask becoming one of the most recognizable icons in film and pop culture.

- Opie, I., & Tatem, M. (1996). A Dictionary of Superstitions Hill, D. (1968). Magic and Superstitions Household, P. (2013). I seek unlucky Fridays in Chaucer and find none. Things that have interested me. https://peterhousehold.blogspot.com/2013/01/chaucer.html

[chill-in-heat]

Riverrafting

A bubble raft of equal sized bubbles adopts the hexagonal pattern of a honeycomb. [1] It was floating on the water [2], the saloon garden. She must be near the home but It was absurd trying to remember, when at any moment a wave might submerge her raft forever. [3]

The high presences of the trees surrounded her as if they stood forth at her coming. [4] On every side there seemed an outstretching of greenery moving in equally repetitive fashion. [5] There were special gates covered with greenery leading into all the four parts of the garden. [6] The courtyard wasn’t paved with the usual austere slabs of gray stone but was full of plants and fruit trees. [7] At the front they formed an aetoma, a freely floating baldachin, with the eleventh strip serving as a ceiling. [8] Gothic forms lived on, but little by little they fell silent, ceasing to speak, to recall or instruct. [9]

It must have been years since she had seen Kati. Wondering about the new one, Takeshi.

Natural gifts like his were hard to match. [10] Heavens, what a pair of legs he had! [11] She also picked up two now faded tattoos on his right forearm ("trust her" and "FOREVER violent") [12] and told him:

"They are like a pair of glasses on our nose through which we see whatever we look at." [13] "I don't even wear glasses." [14] Takeshi stated.

Lethe disembarks and floats over to him. Deftly she lifts off his glasses. [15] And reassure him, there's nothing wrong, freedom and fear are always together like an old married couple, each willing to die for the other. [16] The glasses, chinked, vibrate. [17] Kati looks at her japanese companion.

"Your old fashioned spectacles! This requires a completely new style of dress." [18] But Takeshi stayed calm, master of his violence. "Don't worry about me. [19] Dress designing... is to me not a profession but an art." [20]

Takeshi clads himself with periwinkles.

It was not in everybody’s interest that the skirt should be short [21], altough, at that time, he had appropriately fruity tangerine coloured hair. [22] But Kati would say their tastes did match well. [23]

"If you like it, you may take it back with you, as a souvenir of a future friend," she said serenely. [24] A whole new relationship between Takeshi and his truth was beginning to be formulated here. [25] One that he knew all to well. It can’t have come from lack of confidence. [26] A dangerous confidence [27]:

To succeed in getting drunk, but on pure water, that they might turn into butterflies.[28]

The [undramatic] surroundings are forgotten once again. [29] And hence, the whole poem loops back upon itself without closing. [30] Kati and Takeshi are gratefully ignorant again. Thank you ,vuokrasopimus It never fails to work its magic. [31]

[1] Ball, The Selfmade Tapestry Pattern Formation in Nature, [2] Hugo, Les Miserables, [3] Calasso, The Marriage of Cadmus and Harmony, [4] Woolf, Night and Day, [5] Asimov, Complete Robot Anthology, [6] Gothein, A History of Garden Art, [7] Calasso, The Marriage of Cadmus and Harmony, [8] Semper, Style in the Technical and Tectonic Arts or Practical Aesthetics, [9] Serres, Angels A Modern Myth, [10] Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales, [11] Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales, [12] Duncan, The James Bond Archives, [13] Wittgenstein, Philosophical Investigations, [14] The Young Pope, [15] Greenhalgh, Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky, [16] The Young Pope, [17] Greenhalgh, Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky, [18] Asimov, Complete Robot Anthology, [19] Beckett, Waiting for Godot, [20] Koolhaas, SMLX, [21] Laver, The Concise History of Costume and Fashion, [22] Carter, American Ghosts and Old World Wonders, [23] Koolhaas Obrist, Project Japan, [24] Borges, Collected Fictions, [25] Foucault, History of Madness, [26] Hatherley, A New Kind of Bleak Journeys Through Urban Britai, [27] Glotz, The Greek City and its Institutions, [28] Deleuze Guattari, A Thousand Plateaus, [29] Steel, Hungry City How Food Shapes Our Lives, [30] Serres, Hermes Literature Science Philosophy, [31] Deitz, Of Gardens Selected Essays Penn Studies in Lands

[art-of-manliness]

Podcast #848: The 5 Priorities of Short-Term Survival

While we all wonder how we would fare if we had to survive for months in the wild like Brian does in the book Hatchet, the reality is that most survival situations only last a day or two. You get lost or injured in the woods and have to spend a night out that you hadn’t planned on. And as my guest, Dave Canterbury says, as long as you know some basic skills and pack the right gear, you can turn a potentially life-and-death situation into what’s just a night of inconvenient camping. Dave is the author of numerous books on wilderness survival, including his latest: The Bushcraft Essentials Field Guide. Today on the show, Dave unpacks the five priorities of short-term survival and what you need to pack, know, and do to deal with the risks of venturing into the wild. We discuss the biggest concern when it comes to first aid, the three elements of a proper shelter, Dave’s favorite method for starting a fire, the safest bet for water purification, what to look for in a perfect survival knife, the five knife skills you should master, the essential knots every outdoorsman should know, and more. Resources Related to the Episode * How to Use a Tourniquet to Control Major Bleeding * 6 Trees Every Survivalist Should Know * How to Harvest and Use Nature’s Aspirin * How to Keep Your Course in the Wilderness * Series on land navigation * 6 Unconventional Outdoor Shelters * How to Build the Ultimate Survival Shelter * How to Build a Campfire That Will Last Through the Night * The Ultimate Firestarter: How to Make Char Cloth * How to Choose the Perfect Survival Knife * 5 Critical Knife Skills for the Outdoorsman * How to Fell a Tree With a Knife * 7 Basic Knots Every Man Should Know Connect With Dave Canterbury * Dave on IG Listen to the Podcast! (And don’t forget to leave us a review!) Listen to the episode on a separate page. Download this episode. Subscribe to the podcast in the media player of your choice. Listen ad-free on Stitcher Premium; get a free month when you use code “manliness” at checkout. Podcast Sponsors Click here to see a full list of our podcast sponsors Transcript Coming Soon The post Podcast #848: The 5 Priorities of Short-Term Survival appeared first on The Art of Manliness. http://dlvr.it/ScVjX4

[wisconsinwarlock]

16, 21, 23, 28, 39, 44, 68, 79, 83, 92, 100

Please and thank you 💖

Thanks so much for asking! ☺️

16. What’s your favorite feature of yours?

I like my eyes. They aren’t very big most of the time, but they’re expressive. And the color is nice.

21. What’s the stupidest fight you’ve ever gotten into?

I’m not very confrontational, but when I think I’m right, it’s generally because I’ve got good reason. That said - I think the stupidest fight was the one I wound up in about driving in Canterbury. I say “I wound up in” because I tried to do my best to provide guidance, based on what the map was telling me, and it fell on an increasingly agitated audience. I’m glad that we stopped and parked the car, because it would have been awful to have a marriage last only five days.

23. What’s your dream date?

Maybe I’m kind of simple this way, but I just want to spend pleasant time with someone I adore. Maybe get a hotel room downtown wherever, so neither of us feels like we have to pick up or attend to other menial chores - have a little home away from home, preferably somewhere we can walk to wherever we care to be. Go wander through the art museum. Go window shopping (or maybe actual shopping) on the nearby pedestrian mall. Have a couple of really good meals at new places. Go see a show later that evening. Take some dessert back to the room, then forget about it completely and make joyful, passionate love to each other. Drift off to sleep in each other’s arms, exhausted and happy. Wake up to each other’s smiles.

28. What’s your favorite holiday tradition?

I think the one that happens now, year after year, that I really like, is decorating the Christmas tree. We get the ornaments out, and they’re all unique, like the flying cupcake, or the skiing chicken, or the miniature plush Union Jack, and it’s like meeting up with old friends again. Doesn’t matter if we’re in town to celebrate or traveling to visit family elsewhere - the tree always gets a proper decoration job.

39. What non-sexual touch affects you the most?

Hugs are awesome. Comforting and sweet.

44. Do you have a favorite quote?

I’m not sure that I do; I never remember quotes as quotes very long or who said them, and they don’t come to mind when I’m trying to gauge how to act. But “No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted” is one that I think is true.

68. What are you craving right now?

Kisses and hugs from an amazing woman. And her involuntary exhalations when I kiss her just so in the right spots.

79. Do you like surprises?

I like pleasant surprises. Being told my transmission needs replacement or one of my cats has cancer - not so much. Someone got me a present just because? That’s awesome.

83. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? (or other accessory if you don’t wear any)

I think it has to be my wedding ring. It’s got an unending circle of ivy pattern that everyone has nice comments about. And it’s pretty much the only piece I’ve been wearing continuously since I got it. Other pieces come and go, but this one is forever. Which is kind of the point.

92. What book world would you live in if given the opportunity?

Put me in the Lord of the Rings, particularly in Hobbiton. Assuming I could get a place that’s sized appropriately. That just seems like a pleasant place to be.

100. What’s one of your fondest memories?

I have a little GIF that I can play in my mind that always makes me warmly nostalgic. When I was sixteen, on December 18, my family and I went downtown to have dinner at the White Horse Inn (which was to my teenage brain the height of sophistication, and even today I realize was pretty damn nice), and then we went across the street to the Civic Center to see a performance of the Nutcracker. When we came outside afterward, it was snowing, and apparently had been since not long after we went in. Big fluffy flakes, and it was quiet the way snowfall just makes so. My mental image of the snow falling, at the close of a fun evening, is that GIF.

[oh-for-fic-sake]

No Boyfriend’s

Masterlist

Henry comes home to find out his three year old princess has a boyfriend, whats a dad to do?

Warnings: swearing, fluff

A/n: so I had so much fun wrighting this fluff piece! Thank you to @jessevans​ for requesting it.

No Boyfriend's

You walked up to the preschool to pick up your daughter from her afternoon session. You had to admit when Henry had first sugested moving out of the city You had been a little skeptical. He had been adamant that he wanted your child to have a childhood much like his. Out of the hustle and bustle moving out into 'the sticks' as many londoners would call it. You'd settled in a quaint picturesque little village near Canterbury in Kent the location was perfect for henry's work with the port of dover thirty minutes away and the center of london with all the airports around an hours drive in the opposite direction it was ideal. And best of all it was out of the way and had all the amenities within the village itself a post office, shop,pub, Doctors surgery and pharmacy the local primary school and pre school was literally a five minute walk from your house and the closest secondary schools were a ten minute bus ride into canterbury itself and when the time came you had six to choose from.

The reason for the move? Your now three year old Daughter the apple of her daddies eye. You remebered the day you'd told your boyfriend you were pregnant, you'd been terrified as much as he said he wanted a family you couldnt help that twinge of doubt. But he was exstatic within moments he had darted out of the room when he returned he was clumsily trying to dial his mothers number with shaking hands tears streaming down his face as he kept asking if you were sure even when his mother picked up, you could here her laughs of joy as he told her. He paced the room leaving you to sit on the bed giggling as he refused to sit down whilst on the phone with his family every time he walked past you he move his hand pressing on Your flat tummy asif trying to feel the child already that or he was trying to imagine you with a bump and that grin? You'd never seen him smile like that before it truly melted your heart seeing him so happy. He was always and attentive boyfriend but once you was pregnant he was..Incredible always by your side when he was at home tending to your every need and he somehow managed not to be over bearing.

It was when you went to the first scan that he had proposed some might say it wasn't the most romantic but for you it was perfect! Leaving with the first photos of your little jellybean and a fiance. Fuck yes! You thought that you couldnt get any happier but then came the gender scan. You knew he didnt mind what they were but you also knew deep deep down you both wanted a little girl to coddle over and buhe wanted a daddies girl someone who he could be their knight in shining  armour. He could bearly keep still beside you holding your hand tight watching the screen trying to get a look at your little 'nugget' as he had called them he couldn't keep quiet either with every swipe of the ultrasound  wand he was changing his mind.

"Girl? Is that? I can see? nope Boy definatly boy"

"Henry babe...dont get to excited that's the umbilical cord...I think?" They were being a little bugger crossing their legs making the sonographer work hard to move them around as you had to move again and again trying to get the little one to move. Finally they spoke.

"And you two are about to have... Little....Princess! You have a baby girl on the way congratulations" you both froze looking at the screen seeing your baby...your daughter. Immediately you both burst into tears.

"A-a girl your sure?" Henry asked in a quiet shaky voice the woman smiled nodding handing you both tissues then moved slower over the child showing you exactly what she saw then printed off some of the photos for you. Once home Henry began refering to her as 'little lady' on account of her 'protecting her modesty' by crossing her legs.

It wasnt long after youd began talking about moving seroiusly, the house was big enough sure but now you knew the baby was a girl it all seemed much more real. Sure you'd both spoke about buying a house together on and off as youd moved in to his place earlier in the relationship but this time it was more feasible the idea of raising your precious little girl in the middle of london didn't bode well for Henry he was also concerned about haveing photos of her taken he was an actor hell your relationship was posted all over social media by your third date! He didn't want that attention on his daughter so you both started seriously looking. It only took another nine weeks to find a place you both fell in love with the Georgian detached house it looked like a mini manor with its decorative columns and tall windows had a huge garden to for kal it was perfect.

At six months you had a small private wedding and it was then that he anounced your marriage and baby Cavill, potsing your favourite wedding photo of you in you and Henry facing each other laughing witb your foreheads together, you were wrapped around each other as close as ou could get considering the bumb that had seemingly grown overnight his hand resting on the cute bump you were laughing because she had just kicked him when he had told you he loved you. Almost like 'dont forget about me!', Kal had photo bombed to his head poking out between your an Henry's legs smiling , a part of your flowy dress caught up on the bears ear head tilted the only one looking at the camera and in the same post he added an ultrasound of your baby girl. You got congratulations from many of yours freinds and family. And Henry's freinds and costars each wondering the same thing 'how the fuck did Henry keep it quiet?'. You wondered that as well, the hole pregnancy was just memory after memory. Henry made sure you did everything you could to document your daughters creation, you did the photo of your bump once a week the last one being you in the hospital in the middle of slow labour holding the gown tight around you a mere half hour before she was born. He had made sure you did the belly casting which had been tidied up and trimmed painted pink and was in the cupboard, then the 4d scans expensive tho they were nothing and you mean nothing compared to seeing her little face for the first time, it was then you realised she looked nothing like you! She was all her father although a slightly more feminine and less sharp and it was also there you were told she had lots od hair...Curls you felt like you'd hit the jackpot. At the birth he had been incredibly supportive until he wasn't, well you disagreed  he wanted to film it and not just your face  he wanted to film it you said no but regretted it after as it would have been solid proof of what happened.  You see one moment he was there then mid contraction....you heard quiet 'nope' a huge thump is what alerted you to his fall.... there was an alarm pressed and nurses came running in each giggleing, it was rare now days to have a fainter.

"Are you FUCKING KIDING ME?! HENRY?! OI! HERNY? CAVILL GET YOUR ASS UP!" You had to stop shouting and started breathing heavy as another contraction pulled at you once over you began barking orders to the nurses.

"KICK HIM...KICK HIM IN THE NUTS! DONT WORRY ABOUT STERILISING SUPERMAN HERE! NEVER AGAIN! HE WONT THEM TRUST ME... HENRY GET UP! ARE YOU LISTENING? STOP BEING A LITTLE BITCH! I AM NOT DOING THIS AGAIN COS HE FUCKING MISSED IT! LOOKING WHEN I TOLD HIM NOT TO!"  The nurses didn't know what to do it took three of them to place im in the chair each trying desperately not to laugh as you had a melt down screaming at him to 'wake the fuck up' You swore you even heard laugher from outside signaling that his family had heard. Yes your wonderfully supportive husband had fainted through stress? Excitment? Anxiety? Low blood sugar? Each time you asked him it had been different answer but and to quote him 'it was definitely not because I looked' which neither you or his brothers will ever believe or let him forget. Luckily he came to as you finally birthed his daughter. A stunning screaming little dark haired bundle. He sobbed when he held her for the first time leaning over her cradeling her so gently leaning over her kissing her as many time he possibly could he was the first one to hold her, hug her kiss her and change her. The photo of his first cuddle hung proudly in the hallway ,you will never forget that moment, the moment when Henry's whole world changed  you could see then just how much he had wanted this. Your daughter was going to be the luckiest little girl in the world.

Paige had grown into a daddies girl, through and through which made today much better. Henry was coming home from filming man from u.n.c.l.e he had been away for months and you had kept his arrival home a secret. Henry was going to make it home in about twenty five minutes. You stopped just before the colourfull gates unable to go in with Kal, you could see the kids lining up in twos underneath the oak tree in the small garden. You smile moving to stroke Kals ears hushing him as he barked loudly vibrating with exciment his tail thumping on the floor as he sat like the good boy he was. At his bark you could hear the kids all squeal with excitment, they loved it when you brought the 'wolf' to the preschool. It was funny hearing Paige whine to them that 'his name is Kal and he's a bear'. He was quite the spoilt pup when he helped you pick up his sister getting hugs and kisses of all the Paige's class mates. Finally the small class was walked out of the garden one of the teachers holding the gate lettjng them leave to their parents. Paige waited in line pointing to you then was let out you ducked down hugging her kissing between her her curly little pigtails.

"Hey baby! Have a good day?" She nodded passing you her small bag and a small potted plant? You looked at her confused but said nothing. She turned and giggled hugging kal smoshing her face in his chest making him stand up she pulled back and squealed as he latherd her with kisses three hours away from her was apparently to long!

"Oh no Kal! Stop it silly bear!" You laughed watching her push weakly at kal who began to settle down now that his 'pup' was with him. You noticed the other parents hovering there kids all pulljng itching to come get Kal cuddles. You smiled to them nodding suddenly they came over all giving him pets and love which he lapped up. You also used it as a sort of lesson the do's and donts of petting dogs, which did some of the other parents a favour. Kal wagged his tail and droped to the floor he couldnt roll over fast enough directing the tiny hands to scratch his belly mouth open tongue lolling about as he panted one happy little bear. After you were sure all the kids got there cuddles you moved calling kal he huffed at you ignoring you instead wanting more love. You smirked down at him sighing as the children giggled. Finally after much coaxing from the other parents you and Paige managed to heave kal away with promises of chicken and snuggles at home. Soon you was on your way home kal padding beside you happy as can be.

Paige took he spot beside you holding his lead with you she was talking about her 'boyfriend' a little boy who she had taken a shine to. It was really sweet he had just moved to the area a little asian boy who paige had bonded with quickly. Really they were just best freinds but he was the first boy she had made freinds with hence she had opted to call him her boyfriend.

"So then Micah played let me play and-and he let me be a knight!" You smiled at her as she beamed excited.

"Really? A knight?" She stopped at the road with you looking both ways then crossed quickly.

"Yeah! Like in daddy's games!! And he gave me some of the bany tomatoes in his lunch...did you he grew them in his own garden!!" You gasped sown at her.

"Really? Oh my, sound like a little dream boat!" she scrunched up her nose lookjng up at you placing a tiny hand to he forehed sheildjngnher eyea from the afternoon sun

"Wha?" You chuckled shaking your head at her.

"Never mind jummy is just being silly" nodded to you her lightl blue eyes sparkling at you then Continued talking about her day mostly about Micah and the games they played.

When you reached home you watched as kal began barking and whining which could only mean one thing. Henry was home already, you unlocked the gate and released the dog with a quiet 'go get daddy' he tore off whining running to the door scratching and pouncing barking the whole time.

"Mummy whats wrong with kal?" You looked down at her knowingly"I'm not sure why don't you go see to him?" She nodded her head biting her lip then licking it, she looked so much like her father doing that. Then she was off running to the house just as Henry opened the door. She froze then screamed for him quickly falling to pieces with grabby hands wantjng her daddy. You watched all choked up as always she was bawling her eyes out by the time he had jumped the steps to the house scooping her up in his huge arms. He clutched her to his chest shushing and rocking her as she cried into him fisting her small hands in his shirt just calling him over and over. He moved his head kissing her trying to calm her, he hated and loved this. He hated her getting so upset when her returned but secretly loved that she missed him. The first few times he left he was worried she wouldnt remember him but juste as youd promised him she had.

The first time he came home you’d taken her to the airport to meet him...He had ended hup having to sit in the back with her as she refused to let him go getting hysterical  each time he tried to pry her off of him. She had gotten better as she got older understanding that daddy had to work and now she was older she could speak to him on the phone and video chat. Each time after the initial crying and snuggles she would stay stuck to his side weather she was sitting on the sofa between his legs when he was playing games or in the makeshift gym with him useing his reps to practice her counting...even if in five mineuts he managed two hundred by her count they were always together. Hell sometimes he even read a new script as a bed time story, which not even you were privvy to!

You laughed walking up to him winding your arms around them both cuddling your daughter between you he leaned in kissing ou on the lips.

"God its good to be home" you smiled smoothing  one of paiges high pigtails she whined calming down kicking her little legs wrapping an arm around his neck and moved suckling her thumb a little. He moved you all into the house patting her bottom lightly somthing he had done since she was born it always soothed her. You moved to the kitchen opening the back door letting air in it was to hot, you placed the small plant on the windosill by the sinck giving it a tiny bit of water as you noticed the siol had dried out. Henry stayed close behind you wanting to be around you, you moved to the slow cooker flicking it on to warm up the already cooked casserole. He came up behinde you movijng to have Paige on one hip still rocking her slightly even tho she had calmed down.

"Ohh look baby chicken casserole...Did you help mummy with that today before school? " She giggled peering over the pot.

"Yes daddy! I putted in the veggies! And tatoes! Daddy!" He smiled at her gasping.

"You did the veggies and the potatoes?! Such a clever girl making daddies favourite dinner" she giggled at the praise nodding.

"And-and I tasted it to!" he gasped at her as she got all excited

"And what do you think?" She grinned and 'whispered'

"Needed salt" you spun round and gasped at her offended.

"You little!" You chased her and Henry around the kitchen island wriggling your fingers as if to tickle her.

"AHH HAHAHa NOOO! DADDY RUN RUN!" you giggled as he scarperd out of the kitchen hovering by the door and moved all you saw was the tops of their heads peering into the kitchen. You rolled your eyes as they made a 'plan of attack' you turned back to the pit placeing the lid back on.

Suddeny Henry had you, arms pinning yours to the sides as Paige 'tickled' you making you laugh.

"Oh my god! Stop I give I give!" Finally Paige relented koala climbing Henry who quickly scooped her up to his hip.You moved in kissing her cheek then henry as he wrapped his free arm around you nuzzling in to your neck giving a quick nip before licking at your skin.You giggled trying to escape yet all he did was grab you around your waist and hoist you up.

"HAHA! I have you both now!" You laughed and Paige squealed as he spun around holding you both before making his way to the living room  you wriggled free pretendingnto run from him making paige call out to you for help as he threw her up in the air holding her with 'slam dunking' paige to the sofa making her laugh and  scream as he followed lifting her littl tshirt blowing rasberries on her tummy makeing her squeal and laugh louder. You smiled at the two, this is what you missed when he was away, the laughter of a full house. You sat down in Henry's armchair as he and Paige 'wrestled' soon attracting kals attention who like the loyal steed he was came to paiges aid pouncing henry making him groan and roll off her givingnher and kal the chance to escape to the garden, you both let them the garden was safe and having  kal around was like a live in nanny he wont let anything happen to her.

Henry rolled over on the sofa lounging back panting crooking a finger at you. You crept over moving to sit in his lap, he tugged you down to him pressing a gentle kiss to your lips. He moved sitting up more cupping your ass smirking.

"Soo? Did you think about what I mentioned?" You grinned and pretended to think for a second making him groan leaning in leaving kisses on your neck and jaw.

"I did" you finally replied, you felt him hold his breath as his nose ghosted your ear.

"I stopped them that night~ all back to normal now" he pulled back staring at you

"Really? You mean it?" You nodded them brought you forward for a deep kiss. He had mentioned trying for another child when he came back, youd always intended to give Paige a sibling but not when she aas still a baby baby. Now that Paige was older and going to be in school next year you had felt ready to try again and had be over the moon whne henry had suggested it in a video chat instantly stopping your contraception so eveything would be back to normal and you could start trying asap asfterall you knly had him home for a few months then he was off to play superman again. He smiled lunging forward pinning you below him devouring your mouth you moaned as things got heated.

You felt them. Eyes. Blue eyes to be exact. You both sighed and turned to Paige who was staring unblinking at the two of you from the door. You moved pushing him up.

"Mummy? Wheres my plant I wana show daddy what I grew!" He looked at you and sighed a little, you could tell he was a bit dissapointed but you waved him off as he stood pulling you up with him you moved in whispering.

"Tonight love" he grinned and jumped up a bounce in his step holding his hand out to paige who took it.

"Its on the windowsill in the kitchen" Henry nodded left the room letting you relax for a while already knowing you were picking up your kindle to read. Once in the kitchen he lifted Paige placing her on the counter and pulled over the small plant.

"So whats this then?" She smiled touchingnthe leaves softly

"Its a strawberry plant daddy...I did it from a tiny seed!" He smiled at her looking to the plant it wasnt half bad small but alive which is more then he could say for his when he tried.

"Oh you did this? At school?" She nodded at him and moved the leaves about.

"Yes and it will get bigger and grow pretty flowers...And the flowers will grow a strawberry! Miss bou said we cant pick em till they are a bright red like in the shops... and we can take pictures in to show em off!" He nodded to her

"So your gardening at school now? Is it fun?" She giggled putting the plant down

"Yeah we got lots in our vegetable patch...we got some lettuce and peppers and spinach and and tomatoes! But they not ready yet...Micahs is! Micah grows the at home... can we grow some veggies daddy?" He smiled at her

"We certainly can...Besides we will need to plant your strawberries in the garden...I will make your ownn little growing patch amd we can grow anything you want how does that sound?" She squealed and bounced on her bottom making him smile.

"Lets make a list and we can go get them tomorrow" she nodded in agreement. You walked in the kitchen as henry and Paige leaned over the counter making a list

"Whats going on here then?" Paige quickly riped the paper from under Henry's nose.

"List mummy! Of palnts for my veggie patch! Daddy wants to help!" You smiled peaking over the paper seeing two halves one side had strange 'paige writing' the other a list Henry had written. Compost, tools, string, pots then lots of different fruit and veg. You chuckled shaking your head.

"You missed watering can...maybe we could get a waterbutt? And one of thows plastice green houses to start the seedling off?" He smiled nodding addjng them to the list as you went and checked dinner. You nodded then turned to the other two."Right you tow dinners done wash up then go wait at the table...Had it in the slow cooker all day just needed to be heated up" he leaned over kissing you once again thanking you then helped Paige was her hands leaving to the dining room with Paige.

You did this everytime he came home early dinner meant an early bedtime for Paige and then You could give Henry a proper homecoming. You dished up the dinner home made chicken casserole you moved quickly with the three bowles placing them on the table then sat down ready to eat as Henry began talking about work. you smiled letting him gush about his work, you loved seeing him like this he blushed slightly.

"Any way enough about that, how have my two girls been?" You watched at Paige grinned across the table to him.

"I made a new friend daddy!" You swallowed your mouthfull choosing to keep quiet you knew where this was going you grinned into you bowl. He smiled at her leaning over to wipe her mouth quickly making her giggle at him as he stuck his tongue out at her.

"Oh really? And whats her name?"

"Haha nooo! Daddy its not a girl...I've got a boyfriend!" Henry choked onhis mouthfull paiges face dropped and she looked to you worriedly you smiled reassuringly at her. Henry hit his chest coughing finally getting himslef under control, he looked at you shocked and terrified you nodded at him chuckling.

"A-a boyfriend? Poppet dont you think your a bit err young for that?" She frowned at him shaking her head.

"No daddy! He is really nice! He lets me be a knight! And today we had lunch together and he fed-ed me his tomatoes."

"Gave paige he gave you his tomatoes" you corrected as Henry gaped at her unsure what to make of it.

"So he is just a friend?....he better be"  he grumbled the last part under his breath.

"He is a friend...My boyfriend I love him daddy... he gives me hugs! And Kal likes him to! He's my hero" You giggled as Henry was panicked and at a loss.

"Really....love I thought daddy was your hero?" Creased up he actually looked a bit hurt from her words she gave him a sympathetic look.

"Yes daddy you are...But Micah is to! He is soo pretty and fun and he don't make me be the princess all the time...And he shares his colours"

"Okay so you love this boy Micah?" She nodded pushing her food around in her bowl.

"What do you love about him?"

"His hair! Its black and shiney! And and he is cute!"

"Aha but you do know he isnt your boy friend right? Your not aloud boyfriends yet....No boyfriends untill your older." He said she looked at him wide eyed then you her bottom lip quivering.

"What? But but I love him!" Henry crossed his arms at her she mimicked him scowling

"No absolutly not baby" .she whined and smaked the table in a huff

"NOOO! MY BOYFRIEND!" He raised a brow at her as she had a paddy.

"No boyfreinds untill your 21 and thats final ittle lady"

"No! Micah is mine! My boyfriend! A-and you cant stop us from playing! So there!" Henry rose a brow trying to ignor your quiet chuckles as Paige made huffed and stuck her nose in the air being a right little madame. You watched givjng Henry the stink eye as a grin crawled across his face. Here we go.

"Its illegal...he could get in trouble, daddy could get in trouble" Henry tilted his head at her as she gasped trying to read him, you could see her mind trying to work him out. Is he lying? Or not? but her father was an actor...And a damn good one he had a poker face like no other. You knew where this was going, you knew you should stop it but his was gold! You had a feeling that henry was not gojng to ckme out on top.as she opend her mouth.

"W-well we wont tell..Keep it a secret!" She said holding a finger to her lips Henry tutted shaking his head.

"Oh poppet...Do you know where daddy has been these past months?" You squinted at him trying to see exactly where this was going knowing you were going to have to pick up the pieces. She nodded then shook her head no. He smiled devilishly at her. Oh shit here he goes.

"Daddy has been to spy school" you gasped at him oh hell no he wouldnt...yes he fucking would you could see the twinkle in his deep blues.

"Spy school?" She spoke in a small voice then turned to you looking fro one to the other he nodded at he

"Y-your a spy?" He nodded and she gave him a sa look.

"Yes, and I made friends with lots of spies" she twitched slightly shaking her head.

"And they told me that the spy rules says that a spy's little girl isn't allowed a boyfriend until they are twenty one....If they did find out daddy could get in trouble...You dont want daddy to be in trouble do you?" She shook her head bottom lip trembling as she was torn. She looked like she would explode as she tried weighting up her 'options'.

 Suddenly Henry dropped his smug look and looked more like a deer in the headlights as Paige began wailing moving her arms making grabby hands to you. You sighed and hoisted her into your arms rocking her trying so hard not to laugh.

"W-why is da-daddy mean?....I ju-just want to pl-play with my boyfreind!" You patted her back rocking her.

"No-now D-daddy will get i-in trouble! But I-I just w-wana plaayy!" She cried harder hicupping between her words.

"Oh sweety come here shh shh" you gave Henry a look as he leaned back in his chair crossing his arms at you shaking his head. Stubborn and protective of his little lady.

"Nope..Not having it" you hissed at him knowing you had to spell this one out for the big idiot.

"Daddy didn't mean it,he wont get in trouble at all baby girl"

"Yes I did"

"HENRY!" he shut up at your hiss

"Bu-but d-daddy said-"

"Hey look at me...Dont listen to daddy he is an idiot and just jealous of Micah" she sniffled an nodded

"Y-yeah cos he-he's got pretty Shiney hair... D-daddies just got stupid curls!" You giggled as Henry looked aghast at her not believing wht ha was hearing

"Exactly daddy is just being a grump! you can still play with Micah...He is your best friend isn't he?" She nodded sniffling

"and you love his like a friend right?" Henry now realised his mistake blinked at you as you rolled your eyes shaking your head at him like 'what the fuck? Really? Shes three' .oh. She pulled away wipinng her eyes looking to henry's matching blues.

"Really daddy? C-can I still play w-with micah?"

"Yes of course...I'm sorry baby...you and mummy was right I just got jealous...daddy is used to being your only hero." Smooth cavill real smooth. She bought it tho nodding he tilted his head down.

"Yo-you wont be in tr-trouble" he shook his head at her

"A-and Micah wo-wont be in t-trouble?" Again he shook his head and reached for her.

"No baby daddy was just being silly...Come here Can you forgive me poppet?" She thlught about it then nodded lunging for him cuddling him he mouthed a sorry to you but you just rolled your eyes at him. Idiot.

It was later that night when Henry returned to your bedroom after reading Paige to sleep,. You both flitted about one another getting ready for bed ou was brushing your teeth when he brought it up.

"So who is this micah then?" You rolled your eyes still hearing a little hostility there...To a fucking three year old. You spat out the toothpaste and looked to henry leaning on the door.

"A little boy...He moved to the village just after you left...Paige was instantly taken with him, he is asian so was avoided by the other kids...you know what she's like with hair and shes never seen straight pitch black hair before... she gushed about him for a few days then they became best freinds....And she call's him her boyfriend because he is the first male friend shes made! God henry really shes three! There none of that shit yet...not for a good few years!" You turned away from your sheepish husband.

"So? nothing i need to know? theres nothing going on? whats his parents like?" You blinked at him..

"Seriously? Like are you being serious now?  Ok well fuck it his dad has taken over the doctors surgery and is actually your and my doctor now that dr marsh has retired! His mother is a stay at home wife, they have a cat called fuji; cos he is fat and a gold fish called mino because its a mino...he is a sweet polite boy ...his favourite colour is green he grows fruit and veg in his garden and you know what Henry he fucking loves batman! and whne he batman versus superman comes out he is gonna want batman to kick your ass! there you happy Jesus fucking christ almighty!" Henry smirked moving towards you slowly stalking towards you really.

"Fuck off" he just chuckled quickly wrappjng himself around you.

"God your so sexy when our mad come here~" you blinked at him

"Oh hell no You did not get me riled up to have rough sex.....Henry I!....you little shit!" He laughed knowing you’d caught onto him making you more irritated and dragged you to the bed kissing at your neck along the way.

"Come on love time for number two...A boy to keep and eye on Paige for me when I'm away!" You chuckled relenting as he laid you down on your bed.

[grad502-catherinepascual]

SDL - Ticking off Things to do

1. After reading through this report on native New Zealand broom plants, I decided to pick out the ones that fell into the 'Threatened' category rather than that of the 'At Risk', since these species are closer to extinction. This is the list of species from the report:

Threatened - Nationally critical Carmichaelia carmichaelia (Marlborough pink brooms) C. hollowayi (Holloway's broom, whaupaku) C. torulosa (Canterbury pink broom)

Threatened - Nationally endangered C. stevensonii (cord broom, weeping tree broom) C. muritai

Threatened - Nationally Vulnerable C. Kirkii (climbing broom, Kirk's broom, scrambling broom)

I think it would be best to go even more specific and just target the native broom plants that fall under the ‘Threatened - nationally critical’ category. 

2.1. 

[amelianotthepilot]

[Travel Itinerary] BTS Bon Voyage in New Zealand

BTS recently traveled around New Zealand in their recent season of Bon Voyage.  The following Itinerary is what I could guess from watching the episodes/behind cams.

OVERALL

Christchurch

Castle Hill

Tekapo

Kinloch

Queenstown

ITINERARY

D1 (Christchurch > Castle Hill)

Fly (Seoul > Singapore > Christchurch)

Jin flys separately (Seoul > Auckland > Christchurch)

Rent camper @ Britz

Lunch @ Speight's Ale House

Address: 2 Troup Drive, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Shopping Hiking store @ Kathamandu

Address: Tower Junction Mega Centre Blenheim Road, Foster Street, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Korean store @ Kosco

Address: 227 Blenheim Road, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand

?also maybe went to the alcohol store in this shopping mall?

Drive

Cafe stop with sheep @ Highway Cafe

Address: 5695 West Coast Road, Springfield 7681, New Zealand

Drive

Stop @ Lake Lyndon

Address: Castle Hill 7580, New Zealand

Sleep @ Porters Lodge

Address: Porters Ski Area Access Road State Highway 73, Castle Hill 7580, New Zealand

about $57 a night per person

D2 (Castle Hill  > Geraldine > Fairlie > Tekapo )

JK hikes to get snow

Jimin small hike

Group hike up the trail

Breakfast @ Porter's Lodge

Address: Porters Ski Area Access Road State Highway 73, Castle Hill 7580, New Zealand

Drive

Gas Station @ Z Petrol (Jhope left behind)

Address: Cnr Waihi Terrace &, Pine Street, Geraldine 7930, New Zealand

Gift Shop  @ Kiwi Country (Jhope left behind)

Address: 38 Waihi Terrace, Geraldine 8751, New Zealand

Drive

Lunch @ Farm Barn Cafe

Address: 4 Mount Michael Road, R D 17, Fairlie 7987, New Zealand

Drive

Grocery shopping @ Foursquare

Address: State Highway 8 22 Rapuwai Lane Tekapo-Twizel Road, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

Playground @ Foursquare

Address: 5 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

Drive

Lake Tepako lookout

Address: 2F67+JJ Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand

Lake Tepako Astro Cafe

Address: Godley Peaks Road, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand

(they were hanging out here before they did the Observatory)

Look at stars @ Mt John Observatory

Address: 2F77+VM Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand

Drive

Campground cabin on the lake 

Address: 2 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

about $70 a night

Dinner @ Cabin

Look at moon

D3 (Tekapo > Ben Ohau > Mt Cook > ??? )

Leave by 8:00am

Food shopping @ Four Square Lake Tekapo

      -Address: State Highway 8 22 Rapuwai Lane Tekapo-Twizel Road, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

Playground @ Foursquare

Address: 5 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

Drive

Address: 5098 Tekapo-Twizel Road, Ben Ohau 7999, New Zealand

Drive

Hike Mt Cook @ Hooker Valley Track

Address: Hooker Valley Track, Mt Cook National Park 7999, New Zealand

3 Hour hike with 3 bridges and lake

Camping @ special site

Address: ???

Set up tent @ campsite

Address: ???

Dinner @ campsite

Address: ???

(Supposed to stargaze but fell asleep )

D4 (??? > Omarama > Gibbston > Queenstown > Kinloch)

Wake up by 7:00am

Pack up

Drive

Go to spa @ Hot Tubs Omarama

Address: 29 Omarama Ave, Main Omarama Twizel Highway, Omarama 9448, New Zealand

Lunch @ Hot Tubs Omarama

(it sounds like they did the hot tub and also did the sauna/spa part after and it wasn't shown)

Drive

Bungee jumping @ Nevis Swing

Address: 3170950, Gibbston 9371, New Zealand

Drive

Food Shopping @ Countdown Queenstown

Address: 30 Grant Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand

Korean store and clothes store

Address:

Drive

Camping @ Kinloch Camping Site

Address: 876 Kinloch Road, Kinloch 9372, New Zealand

Dinner and Mulled Wine @ Kinloch Camping Site

Clean up at midnight and sleep

D5 (Kinloch > Glenorchy > Queenstown area > Queenstown)

Clean up

Address: 876 Kinloch Road, Kinloch 9372, New Zealand

Drive

Helicopter @ Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

Address: 35 Lucas Place, Frankton, Queenstown 9348, New Zealand

(BTS met the helicopter on a field but the company usually has you meet at their Queenstown location and then they bus you to the helicopter and back)

Flight 107: Land at lake and land at snow

Picnic Lunch @ Glenorchy Wharf

Address: 4 Islay Street, Glenorchy 9372, New Zealand

Split up for activities

(V/Jimin)Horseback riding @ Dart Stables

Address: 59X9+W7 Glenorchy, Otago, New Zealand

(Jin/JK/Suga/ JHope) Fishing @ Lake Wakatipu

Address: Queenstown Fishing, Sugar Lane, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(RM) Working @ Kinloch Camping Site

Address: 876 Kinloch Road, Kinloch 9372, New Zealand

Drive

Settle into Queenstown House @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

$1200 a night

Dinner @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Play Uno @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

D6 (Queenstown)

(V) Wake up punishment @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Get ready and Clean up @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Drive

Skyline Gondola

Address: 53 Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(they showed them getting on this but not the ride)

Ski lift to luge

Address: XJFW+MX Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand

Luge

Address: XJFW+MX Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand

they did the Scenic and Advanced tracks

Drive

Lunch @ The Views by Touch of Spice

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Split up for activities

(V) Art Gallery @ Ivan Clarke Gallery

Address: 39 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(V) relax under tree @ Park next to KFC

Address: 27 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(Jimin/JHope/RM) Biking to Cafe @ The Boatshed

Address: 9300/847 Frankton Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

40min bike ride to The Boatshed from their house

(Jin/Suga/JK) Fishing  @

Address:  ??

(Jin/Suga/JK) Fishing Take 2 @

Address:  ??

(Jimin/JHope/RM) facetime @ park

Address: Lake Wakatipu Ride, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(exact address is 45°01'13.6"S 168°43'43.5"E )

about a 1-hour ride from their house

(V) walks around Queenstown

(V) eats a burger  @ McDonald's

Address: O'Connells Shopping Centre, 23 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(V) goes to store with fur bed @ Remarkable Gifts

Address: Shop 4/13 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(V) goes home and learns UNO

Address: 3 Whitbourn Place, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(Jimin/JHope/RM) food shopping @ FreshChoice Queenstown

Address: 64 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

(sidenote I’m still confused how they got all the groceries back cause they biked. I'm guessing the cars picked them up from their bike ride.)

Everyone meets at home and cooks and has dinner and drinks

Play BTS UNO

outro interviews

Last Update: 7 Jan 2020

to be continued (ill finish updating it tomorrow sorry)

(the ones with ??? im working on pls be patient/if you know where it is DM me)

coming soon: Check out my BTS New Zealand Photo Spots post to find out where you can take the photos BTS did!

[raizadayawon17]

Reflection of the death of Arthur

Mordred makes himself King of England and incestuously claims Guinevere as his wife. Guinevere escapes to the Tower of London. The Bishop of Canterbury reproaches Mordred for his usurpation and would-be incest, and when Mordred tries to kill him, he flees and becomes a hermit. Mordred wins many Englishmen to his side, then meets Arthur at Dover but is forced to retreat from him.

In this battle Gawain is mortally wounded. As he dies he admits to Arthur that if it were not for his insane pride in insisting on unjust revenge, Launcelot would be here now to save the kingdom; then he writes Launcelot, begging him to come help Arthur and also to pray at his tomb. Then, bleeding from the wound he got originally from Launcelot — with the fated sword of Balyn — Gawain dies.

Arthur meets Mordred again at the battle of Bareon Down and again puts him to flight. They meet next at Salisbury Plain, and there, with all who loved Launcelot fighting on Mordred's side, they prepare for what is to be their last battle. The night before the battle, Arthur dreams he is on the Wheel of Fortune, sitting on a throne and dressed in the richest gold that can be made:

And the kynge thought there was undir hym, farre from hym, an hydeous depe blak watir, and therein was all maner of serpentis and wormes and wylde bestis fowle and orryble. And suddeynly the kyrige thought that the whyle turned upso-downe, and he felle anionge the serpentis, and every beste toke hym by it lynnue. And than the kynge cryed as he lay in hys bed, "Helpe! Helpe!"

After the prophetic dream he has another. Gawain and a number of ladies come to him to warn him against fighting in the morning for if Arthur fights, he will die; if he waits for a month, Launcelot will be here to help him. Then Gawain and the ladies vanish.

Arthur asks a truce, and the two armies meet on the field to set terms. An adder appears, a knight unthinkingly draws his sword to kill it, and the two armies are at war. At the end of the day, Mordred is the only man of his army left standing, and Arthur has only two knights, Sir Lucan and Sir Bedivere. Against Sir Lucan's advice, Arthur fights Mordred and kills him, but he gets his own death wound as he does it. Lucan and Bedivere bear him to a chapel. Robbers overrun the battlefield stealing the gear of dead knights, killing any that have life left in them.

Arthur is dying and cannot be moved to safety. And so he sends Bedivere to throw Excalibur into the lake nearby, then return and tell what he has seen. Bedivere hides the sword under a tree, thinking it too precious to throw away, then returns and says he has obeyed. "What did you see?" Arthur asks. Bedivere says he saw only waves and winds. Arthur sends him twice more, and the last time Bedivere does as he has been commanded. A hand catches the sword and brandishes it three times.

Then at Arthur's command, Bedivere carries the king to the waterside, where a barge awaits him and some ladies in black hoods. Bedivere puts Arthur in the barge and he is borne away to Avilon, perhaps to heal his wounds, perhaps to die. Bedivere wanders through a forest until he comes to where a hermit is kneeling over a fresh grave. It is the grave of a man brought to him at midnight by ladies in black. Whether or not the body is really that of Arthur, no one knows. Some say Arthur still lives, and some say riot.

[laracroftsleatherjacket]

Flower Asks: all of them >:3€ (forgive me)

(this is so many omg but I’ll allow it only bc i love u)

Alisons: Sexuality? 

     Gay af (ace lesbean)

Amaranth: Pronouns/Gender?

     Waman (she/they)

Amaryllis: Birthday?

     November 2nd

Anemone: Favorite flower?

     Funnily enough anemones are one of my favs but i think my top favs are chrysanthemums and morning glories but I really love many flowers and flowers in general

Angelonia: Favorite t.v. show?

     As of right now, stranger things duh

Arum-Lily: What’s the farthest you’d go for a stranger?

     Like favors or? I mean I really do try to be a kind and helpful person but if I don’t know somebody or haven’t at least seen them a couple times before I usually don’t do much bc of anxiety 

Aster: What’s one of your favorite quotes?

     "The extraordinary is in what we do, not who we are.” Lara Croft mostly bc I cant think of anything else right now and that stuck with me

Aubrieta: Favorite drink?

     Like a really good cup of black tea with cream and sugar or sweet tea

Baby’s Breath: Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

     Never been kissed before but I definitely have someone in mind I would kiss ;3

Balsam Fir: Have you ever been in love?

     Hell yeah I am right now and I don’t think I ever have been before now

Baneberries: Favorite song?

     Oh hard question... currently really digging We Fell In Love in October by Girl in Red 

Basket of Gold: Describe your family.

     My family is supportive (for the most part) and very loving, even if they express love in weird ways sometimes. We also like to joke around a lot and make fun of each other but in a good way? Like we all have a good time mostly and I get along better with everyone since I started college

Beebalm: Do you have a best friend? Who is it?

     My girlfriend is my best friend uwu I also have a lot of good friends but yeah

Begonia: Favorite color?

     Purble but specifically like a pastel purple and purples that lean more towards blue than pink

Bellflower: Favorite animal?

     Lynx! I love so many animals tho and I also like many cats and domestic cats in general

Bergenia: Are you a morning or night person?

     Night!

Black-Eyed Susan: If you could be any animal for a day, what would it be?

     Probably would love to just be a loved house cat who gets to lay in front of the fire all day or a lynx bc i love them

Bloodroots: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

     A veterinarian (or a special agent lmao)! I also still plan on being a vet tho even tho I get discouraged at least once a month 

Bluemink: What are your thoughts on children?

     I mean I like kids and I was a camp counselor for a summer, but I dont really want any of my own

Blazing Stars: What are you afraid of? Is there a reason why?

     Oh god so many things.. Biggest thing would maybe be death/dying? Like if i think about it too much like the possibility of there just being nothing after death freaks me out. That and throwing up/nausea 

Borage: Give a random fact about your childhood.

     I played soccer and then I was a competitive swimmer so i was kind of an athlete? even tho i hated sports

Bugleherb: How would you spend your last day on Earth?  

     I think I would like to go to waffle house, have the perfect cup of tea, spend lots of time with my loved ones and pet my kitties, play video games with my gf, and sit under a tree in the mountains preferably on a warmer day in the fall and watch the sunset 

Buttercup: Relationship Status?

     Very happily taken

Camelia: If you could visit anywhere, where would you want to go?

     Always wanted to visit Norway

Candytufts: When do you feel most loved?

      Really big long hugs, good morning or goodnight messages, and I also really love cards 

Canna: Do you have any tattoos?  

     I have 6 

Canterbury Bells: Do you have any piercings?

     Yup! I have an industrial, orbital, and 3 earlobe piercings   

California Poppy: Height?  

     5′2 or maybe a little less

Cardinal Flower: Do you believe in ghosts?

     Yeah I think so, but I do also get freaked out easily lmao

Carnation: What are you currently wearing? 

     Red flannel, jeans, fuzzy socks, and big dyke boots  

Catnip: Have you ever slept with a nightlight?

     Yeah I did for a long time and I still sometimes sleep with one or like a bathroom light on if Im sleeping by myself in a new place

Chives: Who was the last person you hugged?  

     Either my mom or my dad I dont remember technically who was last bc my parents are visiting me at college

Chrysanthemum: Who’s the last person you kissed?

     Again, never kissed or been kissed! but maybe soon... :0

Cock’s Comb: Favorite font?

     Font? I like the font in Night in the Woods?

Columbine: Are you tired?

     Pretty much always either sleepy or tired lol

Common Boneset: What are you looking forward to?

     Christmas, getting to see my gf again, and Magfest!

Coneflower: Dream job?

     Like a veterinarian but having my own practice and also being able to take in injured wildlife if possible

Crane’s-Bill: Introvert or extrovert?

     Introvert for sure

Crocus: Have you ever been in love?

     Oh repeat question, hell yes

Crown Imperial: What’s the farthest you would go for someone you care about?

     Depends what it is but I would go pretty far for somebody I care about and Im also a crazy person and would drive/travel no matter what distance for someone I love

Cyclamen: Did you have a favorite stuffed animal as a child? What was it?

     Yup! I had a ballerina bunny, named Bunny because I was very creative and I still have her

Daffodil: What’s your zodiac sign?

     Scorpio

Dahlia: Have you done anything worth remembering?

     I think so? I did a lot of cool stuff with my GS troop like our bronze award project and going ziplining and to sliding rock. 

Daisy: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

     My GS gold award for sure, that shit was hard work and stressful af

Daylily: What would you do if your parents didn’t like your partner(s)?  

     Umm??? I would tell my dad to eat shit and die and I cant imagine my mom being anything but sweet and supportive so I dont even know

Dendrobium: Who is the last person that you said “I love you” to?

     You! This morning uwu

False Goat’s Beard: What is something you are good at?

     uhh Im pretty good at making sense of stuff in my science labs and reasoning and im sometimes good at art? I feel like I do traditional better but Im getting better at digital

Foxgloves: What’s something you’re bad at?

     bad at not being impulsive sometimes and bad at dead by daylight 

Freesia: What are three good things that have happened in the past month?

     a little over a month but officially got a girlfriend who i love very much, my gf came down to visit and we got to chill on the mountains together, and I had a pretty nice birthday 

Garden Cosmos: How was your day today?

     Good! Got breakfast at a diner with my parents and got coffee and a donut at my fav coffee shop so thats all i really need in life tbh 

Gardenia: Are you happy with where you’re at in your life?

     Yeah Im happy even tho Im stressed with school at times 

Gladiolus: What is something you hope to do in the next year or two?

     Get a job after graduation and hopefully get into vet school on the first or second try

Glory-of-the-Snow: What are ten things that make you happy/you’re grateful to have in your life?

     My kitty, mom, wonderful gf, sister, dead by daylight, heated blanket, apartment, waffle house, my sisters kitty, and my dog

Heliotropium: What helps you calm down when you feel stressed?  

     Donuts, coffee or tea, blankets, video games, and loud music

Hellebore: How do you show affection?

     Hmm... I really like to draw art for those i love, tell them how much i love them even though i can be bad with words, and i just try to spend a lot of time with the people I care about no matter what we are doing

Hoary Stock: What are you proudest of?

     uhhh trying to open up more? and Im really proud of my gf 

Hollyhock: Describe your ideal day.

     Going to waffle house. Go to a mountain and hike a little, sit on the top with girlfriend. Admire beauty of mountain countryside. Admire beauty of girlfriend while they admire the beauty of the mountain. Then warm up together with hot chocolate and play video games

Hyacinth: What do you like to do in your free time?  

     I like to doodle and do the arts, play video games, and I like to bake sometimes

Hydrangea: How long have you known your best friend? How did you meet them?

     uuuuuuh I have a good friend I’ve known since kindergarten or first grade when I first moved to where I currently live

Irises: Who can you talk to about (almost) everything?

     My gf uwu and my mem

Laceleaf: How many friends do you have?

     probably like less than 10 

Lantanas: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

     I think its really cute especially when you compliment my laugh

Larkspur: What do you think of yourself?

     ??? I think I am an okay person? And I try to be a good person and be kind and polite to people

Lavender: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

     Umm... I mean I like that Im kind? and Im not fake and I try to be a good person     

Leather Flower: What’s your least favorite thing about yourself?  

      I hate that I procrastinate and that I can get frustrated easily at myself and at situations like crowds and traffic

Lilac: What’s something you liked to do as a child?

     I liked to play ‘restaurant’ with my sister with our littlest pet shops

Lily: Who was your best friend when you were a kid?

     I had a really great best friend named Rachel :c

Lily of the Incas: What is something you still feel guilty for?

     Losing a lot of friends and for being distant for a long time 

Lily of the Nile: What is something you feel guilty for that you shouldn’t feel guilty about?  

     Cutting off a friend that was bad for my mental health and who didnt treat me well even though we were best friends for a long time 

Lupine: What does your name mean? Why is that your name?

     My name is literally my parents ship name... like they even told me they chose my name by putting their names together lmao but I mean I like my name so i guess its okay..

Marigold: Where did you grow up? Tell us about it.

     Small town in new jersey when I was really, it was nice and family was closer. Then we moved and that was difficult but I ended up adjusting and it was good, had a decent amount of friends and the schools i went to were good

Morning Glory: What was your bedroom like growing up?

     For a long time I shared a room with my sister and we had a bunkbed and I had the top bunk of course, when we moved out of the apartment and into a house I got my own room and it was baby blue only because I told my dad that no, I didnt want a fuckin pink room and that was a whole thing lmao

Mugworts: What was it like for you as a teenager? Did you enjoy your teenage years?  

    It was good? but also sucked a lot. I had a lot of issues with my mental health and struggled for a long while with something. I was bullied and stuff at home wasnt always that great. And i got outed so that was fun. Other than that I enjoyed swimming competitively and I got into art

Norwegian Angelica: Tell us about your mom.

I love my mom!! she is the most Mom mom and is so sweet and always there for me. She helps me out so much with so many things and I just love my mom so much

Onions: Tell about your dad.  

     I mean I love my dad? And hes better than he used to be, but he still doesnt help with shit and irritates me a lot. 

Orchid: Tell about your grandparents.

     I never got to know my grandfather on my moms side bc he passed away a few months before i was born and I sort of knew my grandmother but she lived far away and passed away 10 years ago. I usually see my gramma on my dads side the most and I try to visit often and help her out with stuff and I love her even though she can be a bit... racist and shit.. and I sometimes see my grandpa and step grandma but they can be strict about weird shit and always ask a lot of uncomfortable questions

Pansy: What was your most memorable birthday? What made it be so memorable?

     I dont really do much on my birthdays? Ive had a lot of nice birthdays and it usually involves going out to dinner or having a nice dinner at home and having birthday cake and playing games like jenga or yahtzee.

Peony: What was your first job?

     I did some petsitting for a while but my first real job was being a camp counselor/tower belayer/lifeguard at a girl scout camp

Petunia: If you’re in a relationship, how did you meet your partner(s)?

     Met online after following them for a long time and drawing some arts for them, but didnt really start chatting until stranger things 3 came out bc I saw they had just watched it. Didnt meet irl until fursonacon and I just remember seeing them walking up to my car when I got there and just being like .... oh no.  I had already had a crush but at that point I was just heart eyes      

Pincushion: How do you deal with pain?

     Its a little fucked up but depending on the type of physical pain I like it? Like getting tattoos and stuff.. emotional/mental I just curl up in blankets and listen to sad music lol

Pink: Where is home?

    I feel like I have many homes? I feel really at home in the mountains, at home with my family, and when Im with my girlfriend

Plantain Lilies: If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would stop/change?

     Every event no matter how shitty shaped me into who i am today and Im pretty content and lucky with what I have today so maybe nothing?

Prairie Gentian: Who is someone you look up to? Describe them.

     My GS leader Miss Kristin. So incredibly kind and outgoing and just willing to do whatever she can to help others. Shes so adventurous and outgoing and made my gs troop so amazing. She is such a wonderful lady and shes basically like another mom to me.

Primrose: Describe your ideal life.

     To be with my SO in a nice cabin in the mountains with a nice fireplace. Its cozy and we have pets (especially kitties but also maybe a dog and chickens and such) and life is okay and we’re happy

Rhodendron: What is something you used to believe in as a child?

     God and Santa Claus (i was so heartbroken (over santa not God lmao))

Ricinus: Who’s the most important in your life?

     My girlfriend and my mom

Rose: What’s your favorite sound?

    My gfs voice and their laugh c: and I also really like the sound of thunderstorms and rain

Rosemallows: What’s your favorite memory?

Sage: What’s your least favorite memory?

Snapdragon: At this moment, what do you want?  

     To see my gf again and for winter break to just be here already I am so done with school lol

St. John’s Wort: Is it easy or difficult for you to express how you feel about things?

     Difficult? I try really hard to express how I feel but I usually mess up and I get anxious but I try my best lol

Sunflower: What is something you don’t want to imagine life without?

     Any of my loved ones and my cat 

Sweet Pea: How much sleep did you get last night?

     I wish I got more sleep but it was an okay amount

Tickseed: What’s your main reason to get up every morning?

     Good morning texts from my gf and my gf in general

Touch-Me-Not: How do you feel about your current job?

      I dont currently have a job but I occasionally do art commissions which is usually fun and gives me something to do 

Transvaal Daisy: What’s your favorite item of clothing?

     Any of my flannels and my leather jacket (also not mine but my gfs hoodie they gave to me to borrow)

Tropical White Morning Glory: Describe your aesthetic. 

     mountains, cabins, flowers, fall, flannel, small coffee shops, pastels 

Tulip: What would be the best present to get you?

     Im not one to be picky about gifts? I just love anything that someone put some thought into and thought I would like or reminded them of me but i feel bad if it was something expensive or anything lol

Vervain: What’s stressing you out most right now?

     Final exams and graduation

Wisteria: How many books have you read in the past few months? What were they called?

     0 lmao I used to read a shit ton but Ive been picky about what books I want to read lately 

Wolf’s Bane: Where do you want to be in life this time next year?

    Working towards applying to vet school and maybe thinking about moving out depending on a lot of things.

Yarrow: Do you know what vore is?

     Unfortunately

Zinnia: Give a random fact about yourself.

     I like collecting pins, pennies, and postcards which is funny to me

(So in conclusion,,, I love my gf)

(wow that was long as hell and took forever but done!)

[aloneinthetide-blog]

climate table Australia: Climate, weather and temperature to Australia

>In combination with a lot of sun and a humidity of about 50% a very pleasant climate is created. This time of year is ideal for travelling in the north of Australia. The rainy season falls in the summer months from October to May. Then the thermometer climbs during the day up to 31°C degrees, at night the average temperature does not drop below 22°C degrees. From the late afternoon onwards, monsoon winds often come up, bringing heavy rainfall and strong thunderstorms. New Zealand also claims the Ross Dependency in Antarctica, which includes a number of other islands, but this claim is not recognised internationally under the Antarctic Treaty. Tokelau is also a dependent territory of the State of New Zealand, and the Cook Islands and Niue are self-governing territories in free association with New Zealand. These territories are not further considered in the following. Tasmania has the most pleasant temperatures between November and the end of March. This is an optimal time for nature lovers, hikers and wine connoisseurs to explore the island. Read more about campervan hire New Zealand here.

by car

How far is it from Australia to New Zealand?

The geographic centre between New Zealand and Australia is 2,017.31 km away between the two points at a bearing of 285.41°. The shortest distance between New Zealand and Australia is 4,034.62 km as the crow flies. in the north and the fertile Heretaunga plain in the south. To the north is the Gisborne region described above. The ski areas of Ruapehu, Canterbury, Queenstown and Lake Wanaka guarantee exciting action in the snow. Accommodation, ski passes and ski equipment should be booked in advance. Winter is a good time to visit the historic towns of the Coromandel Peninsula, where gold was mined and the New Zealand Kauri tree was felled.

The number of sheep is currently declining, in 2008 there were about 33.9 million, in 2009 only 32.4 million. [62] Cattle breeding has become an important sector, the number of animals is increasing.

It is the ideal month for outdoor activities, for example hiking.spite of the warm temperatures, however, one must always reckon with rapid changes in the weather.

In the event of illness, a general practitioner (GP) must first be consulted, who will then arrange for a referral to a specialist if necessary. Please note the instructions for use and help for the indication in the leaflet Travel Recommendations. Make sure that you and your children have the standard vaccinations according to the vaccination calendar of the Robert Koch Institute. As part of your travel preparations, check your and your children's protection against measles and, if necessary, have them vaccinated. The NZeTA, once issued, is valid for any number of entries for the duration of max.

By train

At lunchtime, a strong wind, the so-called Fremantle Doctor, provides cooling. This sea breeze owes its name to Fremantle, which is about 22 kilometres away, directly on the coast.

[bazypitchandsimonsnow]

The Black Swan

Chapter 11

Rating: T

Genre: Fluff/Angst

Word count: 6722

Chapter: 11/17 (All chapters)

Summary: Everything comes to a head.

Read on AO3

AN: Hello. Sorry this is late. If some of you don't already know, I've got pretty severe chronic headaches. They're unpredictable af and can completely incapacitate me, which they have for the past two days (hooray). But I'm mostly alright now, so here's the chapter! Enjoy :)

———————————————

“And now, block,” David said as he brought his sword down. He was moving slower than a normal fight, but faster than would probably be safe for a normal person. But Simon blocked him with ease, two hands tight on the hilt, legs bracing himself against David. His arms barely shook with effort anymore. Years of training were paying off. Simon didn’t care though. He didn’t really care about much of anything lately.

“Good,” David said, though his voice was more neutral. “What do you do now?”

Simon didn’t bother to answer verbally. He rarely had the energy for words these past few days. Instead, he simply did what he knew. He stepped to the side and stuck his leg out. David purposely tripped, and Simon pressed the flat of his sword to the back of his neck. In a real fight he’d use the edge, of course. However if this were a real fight, Simon would never have a chance to get this close to a master sword fighter like David.

“Good, Simon. Now let me up”

Simon took a second longer than normal to let David up. Everything Simon did was taking a second longer lately. He felt like he was moving through a fog for the past six days. He followed a normal routine. Got up, ate his meals, did his studies, did his training, went to sleep, then repeat. Simple enough. But the world was murky, unreal, so unbelievably distant. Simon was just...numb. And he would hate it, if he felt anything at all.

David stood straight and sheathed his sword. “Good work, Simon.”

“Thank you, sir,” he replied mechanically.

“Have you been training more?”

“No, sir.” A lie, but Simon didn’t want to explain his extra training to David. Besides, lying was apparently part of who he was. Why not embrace it?

“Hm, well, you’re doing alright. If you put as much effort into your policy readings and magic as you did your sword work, you’d be the perfect heir.”

It was typical David. A derision disguised as a compliment. Simon might be hurt on any other day. Today, he just nodded as he sheathed his own sword.

“How is your magic going?” David asked.

“It’s the same,” Simon replied. Which was probably not a lie. He hadn’t tried to do any magic in days, but it was most likely still the same level of terrible.

“Well, there’s always room for improvement. Why don’t we practice your fire magic? You’ve always been weak in that area. Go put away your sword and get your wand.”

“Okay.”

Simon’s journey to his room happened in snapshots. He was in the training ring, then the stairway, then his room. He barely registered moving from one place to the other. That had been happening to him a lot since the horrible night. Simon was too out of it to notice a lot of life as it passed him by.

His room was even more of a mess than usual. He didn’t care enough to fix it, but now it was coming back to bite him in the arse. Because now Simon had to sort through the sea of clothing and midnight snack leftovers for a tiny bone stick. Simon almost felt annoyed. He threw clothes about, scone crumbs falling down on him like rain. Some would probably get in his hair, but that wasn’t unusual for him. He casually looked, lazily tossing things about. Piles were put into different piles. Things were kicked into corners. The floor was slowly cleared.

But there was no wand. And Simon started to feel something for the first time in days; panic.

He threw everything around again, but far more frantically. It was like a tornado flew through his room. He looked through everything three times, but still no fucking wand. Eventually there was no more places to look. Simon was sweating and hyperventilating. Where the hell else could it be? Simon thought. He eyes fell to ground, and soon locked on a piece of fabric. His breath hitched. It was the strap of his rucksack.

Simon hadn’t touched the bag since his last night at the lake. Looking at it was painful enough. He feared touching it would physically burn. Except now he didn’t have a choice. He knew he tended to stick everything in there. And a wand counted as “everything." With a shaking hand, he grabbed the backpack. It didn’t burn, though a pit did form in his stomach that threatened to eat him whole. The memories almost brought tears to his eyes again. He still opened the bag anyway.

There were the usual things that never left the bag, like his dagger and a spare shirt in case his got dirty. There was also the copy of Swan Lake he’d borrowed from Canterbury, and a now very old sour cherry scone, both pathetic peace offerings to Baz that he never even got the chance to take out. He carefully took the scone out as to not get more crumbs all over his stuff. Once everything was taken out piece by piece, Simon’s eyes went wide.

As if life didn’t have it in for him already, things were only worse. There was no wand in his bag. But there was a small hole, just the exact size of a stupid bone stick.

Simon remembered the way he snatched his bag and ran from the lake. How it jostled and everything rattled around. How easy it would have been for his wand to slip out of that hole while he was stomping away crying from the man he might be in love with.

Simon’s wand was in the lake. Where Baz was. And Baz never wanted to see Simon ever again. But Simon needed his wand.

Fuck.

“Simon? What’s taking so long?”

David’s voice was close. Simon inhaled sharply, then threw his blanket over his stuff. He didn’t need David asking questions. It was just in time, as David walked in the next second without knocking. They stared at each other for a long moment. Simon hoped David didn’t see the panic in his eyes.

“What’s going on?” he asked slowly.

“N-Nothing,” Simon said. “I was just...uh...” Looking for the wand I left in the secret hiding place where the probable love of my life who hates me lives, his brain oh so helpfully supplied. Like he could even say anything like that to David. “I-I’m just thinking...could we, uh, leave the magic training until tomorrow? My arms are tired from swords, and I’m not sure I could even lift a wand right now.”

He chuckled, trying to laugh it off, which was futile with David. His eyes narrowed on Simon, arms crossed over his chest. “Oh really?”

Simon rubbed the back of his neck. “Um, yeah. W-Would that be okay? We’ve been training a lot. I could use a break.”

David’s eyes got even smaller. “There are no breaks in ruling, Simon, I’ve told you this.”

“I-I know, I just, I’ve been doing well. Maybe...I could take just one afternoon off?”

David stared at him for a long time. Simon’s pulse was beating in his ears. He silently prayed that David would be accommodating for once in his goddamn life. And thankfully, his prayers were answered.

“Very well,” he sighed. “You have been working hard. You may take the afternoon off.”

Simon let out a breath. “Thank you, Sir.”

David nodded curtly. “Rest well, Simon.”

He turned around and walked briskly out of the room. Simon let the muscles in his arms relax, head hanging between his shoulders. One fight down, one more to go. Simon would have to return to the lake tonight. The idea of that filled him with so much dread, so much anxiety, and just the tiniest, most minuscule sliver of hope. It had been days. Maybe Baz was ready to talk. Maybe they could fix things.

It was strange to feel such a mix of emotion after days of nothing. It was overwhelming, but Simon could cope. Because he could go see Baz. Even if he still hated Simon, Simon might see Baz's face again.

That was the only thing he was looking forward to in almost a week.

———————————————

Simon first worried he might have forgotten how to get to Baz’s lake. But the second he reached the edge of the Forbidden Lands, it was pure muscle memory. His feet knew the exact route through the treacherous wood. He didn’t bring his sword or dagger in a show of peace, so he hoped nothing was going to jump out at him. All he had in his bag was Swan Lake and a new scone, a second attempt at a pathetic peace offering. He hoped it was enough. It wouldn’t be, but Simon desperately wanted to hope.

He got closer and closer to the invisibility shield. His pulse increased with every step. Simon soon reached the three white birch trees that signaled his usual entrance. He took a deep breath to steady his nerves, and-

Wait. Was that...smoke?

There was a smell of smoke. And it was coming from just ahead.

For the second time that day, Simon started to panic.

His body went into autopilot. Simon’s feet flew like a wind, and he soon fell off the invisible cliff into the invisible lake. His magic somewhat cushioned his impact. But it didn’t cover up the black smoke all around him, or the flames licking at his heels.

It was all on fire. Almost the entire lake was engulfed in flames. Simon coughed and covered his mouth. His eyes were watering from the heat. This was literally his worst nightmare brought to life, and somehow so much worse.

“Baz!?” he yelled. “Baz!”

There was no response, but the fire was so loud that Baz might be able to hear him. Or Baz was already dead. Simon wasn’t going to think about that.

Simon shielded his eyes and walked forward. He did his best to clear the flames away with his magic, but the path in front of him was still burning. His watery eyes scanned the area. He saw the scorched grass, and flames reaching the cottage, and finally the flash of black hair under a tree. Simon ran towards the tree, fire be damned.

“Baz!” he shouted.

Baz was sitting under the burning tree, knees to his chest and face hidden. Just as Simon got close, Baz lifted his head. He blinked his puffy eyes at Simon. His cheeks were tear streaked, but Simon had a feeling they weren’t from the heat of the fire.

“Simon?” he said weakly. “Is that really you? I’m not dreaming?”

Simon stood in front of Baz, breathing heavily. “Yeah, yeah it’s me. What the hell is going on?! Why is everything on fire?!”

Baz’s face fell even more. With a weak hand, he lifted up something from behind his leg. Simon’s eyes went wide. It was his wand. And when Baz held it, it spit fire out in a weak sputter.

“You left this,” Baz said weakly. “I found it a few days ago. I picked it up tonight, and just...thought about how mad I was. Then fire started coming out. I couldn’t stop it no matter how hard I tried, and I couldn’t put it out. But then I thought, ‘what’s the point?’”

Simon dropped his sack and went to his knees in front of Baz. He wanted to touch Baz, but he still wasn’t sure if he was allowed. “No, Baz, d-don’t say that. There’s a point! There always is!”

Baz didn’t snap or fight. It seemed all the fight was drained out of him. He pulled in on himself even more. “No, not this time.” Fresh tears fell down his face. His mouth quavered. “I really forgot how horrible it was, to be alone and cursed with no chance of freedom. And I...I can’t live like that again. I’d rather  burn."

He tried to spit the last word, but it came out more like a choked sob. Simon’s heart had dead for almost a week, but it was most certainly alive now, and it was splintering in two. He shuffled forward, needing to be closer to Baz.

“No, Baz, please don’t say that,” he said desperately.

“It’s true,” Baz muttered. “You were my last chance at escape, and I pushed you away. You’re probably just here to get your wand.” He waved it weakly, making it dribble more fire.

Simon gulped, because he couldn’t deny it. But that wasn’t important anymore. He put his hands on Baz’s knees. He didn’t care if he was allowed, he just needed Baz to know he wasn’t alone.

“Baz, you didn’t push me away. I’m right here.”

“Why?!” It wasn’t an accusation, but a plea. Baz’s teary eyes were round with sadness and bewilderment. “Why would you ever want to be here with me again? I said such horrible things. I hurt you and pretended not to care. You should hate me!”

“I don’t! I forgive you! I-I hurt you too, and I’m sorry as well!” Simon’s voice was strained and desperate, but he truly meant it. He forgave Baz instantly. None of what happened before even mattered anymore at the moment. Now he just didn’t want to lose him for good.

But the look on Baz’s face said he didn’t believe him. “I’m sorry, Simon, I-I just, I can’t live like this anymore.”

He let his head fall forward onto his knees, his entire body shaking. The flames were crawling towards him. Simon’s heart raced and ached. He thought of Swan Lake, of Odette and Siegfried, of the word written on that last page.

I won’t let our story end like theirs, Simon thought.

He reached forward, grabbed Baz’s head, and tilted his face up. Simon looked straight into Baz’s blood shot grey eyes and refused to look anywhere else.

“Baz,” he said firmly, “you deserve to live. No matter how messed up everything is now, you should live, because you’re important. And you will escape this place, I promise, okay?” He leaned even closer. “I’ve never turned my back on you before. I’m not starting now.”

Baz tried to jerk away, but Simon refused to let go. He never wanted to let Baz go again.

“Simon...” Baz said, somewhere between a sob and a plea. He looked like was about to say something, something that would inevitably destroy Simon’s heart again.

So Simon kissed him.

Simon had thought so much about kissing Baz since the festival. Almost too much. How it would happen, when it would happen, how Baz’s mouth would feel pressed to his. Even after their falling out, a piece of his mind still fantasized about how they could have kissed if Simon hadn’t ruined everything. But here they were, under a tree, with the world burning down around them, nothing like how Simon imagined. And it was still incredible.

Baz’s lips were cold, colder than Simon remembered Agatha’s being. And they were soft. Simon had slept on silk sheets rougher than Baz’s mouth. It was an astounding, wonderful, life changing, world shaking revelation that he felt so ecstatic to know. He pressed hard against Baz, pushing him against the tree and holding his head in place. Baz gasped in surprise, and Simon wondered if he was about to get shoved into the flames. But then Baz pushed back, trying to match Simon’s furious, desperate movements with all his might. Simon felt instant relief. He held Baz tighter, kissed him harder, trying to push all his feelings in desires through his mouth. Lips slid together, panting breaths exchanged. Baz eventually relaxed somewhat, letting Simon shove him against the rough bark. Letting Simon just snog him for all he was worth.

Their mouths fit together so perfectly, like a key turning in it’s lock. And it opened so many doors in Simon’s mind. He knew the second his lips touched Baz’s that this was all he needed. Baz, not suffering, not in pain, just safe here in his arms, the two of them kissing so hard they forgot their lives. Simon would gladly die kissing Baz.

Simon’s eyes flew open. The flames were still licking at his feet. They were dangerously close to Baz. No, he couldn’t die kissing Baz. Because he refused to let Baz die.

Simon ripped their mouths apart. Both men were breathing heavily, half from the snogging, half from the copious amount of smoke in the air. Baz’s eyes were still half lidded and his cheeks were very flushed. He looked like a dream. Simon wanted to stare at him, but he couldn’t right now. He reached besides Baz and snatched his wand, then turned to the roaring flames.

“Out with thine flames!” he shouted. One fire went out, but it quickly re-lit. Simon growled. “Extinguish!” Still nothing. The magic was jamming up in Simon’s arm and fizzling out. His heart was beating so hard. He was going to die. Baz was going to die. He couldn’t let that happen.

Suddenly, cool fingers wrapped around Simon’s hand. He turned his head, and Baz’s eyes met his. They weren’t sad anymore. They were determined, strong, as fiery as the trees burned around them. He deftly plucked the wand from Simon’s hand, and pointed it over Simon’s shoulder.

"Out with thine flames!” he shouted, voice dripping with magic. Half the fire went out, but some stuff still burned. Baz tried again but the fire was unchanged.

Simon’s worry peaked again. Instinctively, he put a hand on Baz’s chest. Suddenly, he felt his magic somehow...push into Baz. It rushed like a roaring river into the other boy. Baz gasped. He looked at Simon, mouth hanging open. Simon’s breath was heavy. This was supposed to be impossible. But so much about both of them was already impossible. Why not this too?

“Try again” Simon said, voice strained but clear.

Baz nodded. He pointed the wand again, and shouted, “out with thine flames!”

His voice was thunder, more powerful than his captor’s. The fire went out with a rush of air so sudden Simon’s ears popped. Most of the ground was charred black and smoking. The cloaked man wouldn’t like this. It needed to be fixed. Simon looked at Baz again.

“Say, ‘as you were.’”

Baz’s brow furrowed. “What?”

Simon pushed more of his magic into Baz. Baz inhaled sharply. “Trust me, just say it.”

Baz, still breathing heavily, nodded. He pointed the wand. “As you were!”

One boom later, and it was all gone. Everything was returned to normal. It was like the fire had never been there in the first place. The grass was green and lush again, the trees completely unscathed. The lake was once again a beautiful prison of a sparkling blue water and strange floating lights. Simon let out a sigh of relief. Baz wouldn’t get in trouble with his horrific captor. Baz wouldn’t be burned to ash. Baz was safe.

Simon turned back to Baz. Baz was breathing hard, eyes wider than saucer plates, and arm still ramrod straight. Simon quickly realised he was still pushing magic into Baz. He removed his hand, and Baz’s arm fell as he let out a long sigh. The wand rolled on the ground. Baz’s eyes were slits. His chest slowly rose and fell, neatly matching Simon’s own. It took many moments before he founds words again.

“You’re a mage,” he whispered. Baz nodded weakly. “You can control my magic.” Baz nodded again. “H-How?! That’s not possible. You- You’re, how can you-”

Baz sighed, then grabbed Simon’s collar. Before he knew it, their mouths were crushed together again. Simon inhaled sharply, but didn’t move away.

Instead, he kissed Baz back with all he had. Just like he wanted.

———————————————

Simon wasn’t sure how long they spent sitting under that tree, holding Baz’s face, kissing him. It could’ve been minutes, hours, years, who knew. Time stretched into a meaningless infinity when Simon was kissing Baz. He still had a tight grip on Simon’s collar, lips moving furiously, obviously having no clue how to kiss. Simon didn’t mind. He just didn’t want to stop. Baz’s eyes were squeezed shut. Simon didn’t know if he was in pain or trying to shut the world out. He hoped it was the latter. He wanted to shut the world out too. He wanted it to just be the two of them forever.

There were so many things he wanted to do with Baz. Like this; he pushed his hand through Baz’s hair. The smooth strands slipped through his fingers, just like he thought they would. He clenched his fist to better shove Baz’s face into his. Baz inhaled through his nose, then suddenly pulled back.

“Sorry,” Simon said. (He was out of breath. It was embarrassing.)

“No,” Baz sighed, “it’s alright. We should just...” He sighed and ran a hand over his face. “Everything isn’t on fire anymore, so we should talk.”

Simon felt the lump form in his throat. Part of him knew he shouldn’t be worried. Baz said he felt bad about what he said, he had kissed Simon back. But Simon was still scared. He felt like he’d just gotten Baz back. He didn’t want to lose him again.

But he nodded anyway. “Okay. Just, right here?”

Baz stretched his neck and rubbed his head. “No, this tree is very uncomfortable. Let’s sit against the cottage.”

“Okay.”

Simon stood up, but his legs were shaky. He used one arm to balance against the tree for a moment. Baz grabbed his elbow, keeping him steady. The lump in his throat lessened somewhat. His eyes flicked up to Baz, a small smile on his lips. Baz returned it. And Simon felt warmer than he had in a week.

They walked together to the now unscorched cottage, loosely holding hands. Both sat down together, shoulders against the wood, bodies turned towards each other. A long silence stretched out. Simon stared at their touching hands. At Baz’s fine bones and long fingers. He missed this. Not just holding Baz’s hand, but having him close. He felt better with Baz next to him. He meant what he said to Penelope. Here, holding Baz’s hand, he felt so real.

“Hi,” he said, almost wistfully.

Baz chuckled under his breath. “Hello,” he said.

“I-It’s been awhile.”

“I know.”

Simon gripped him a bit tighter. “I’m sorry,” he blurted out. “I’m sorry. For not telling you, about being a prince. And for what I said, when I left. I don’t want you to be alone. I never want you to be alone, I-I was just being stupid and pissed and that’s not excuse but I-”

“Hey,” Baz placed a hand on his upper arm, thumb sweeping over his skin, “it’s alright, I accept your apology. I just...” He sighed and lifted his head to meet Simon’s eyes. He looked both sad and confused. “Why didn’t you tell me? I would’ve understood. At least, I would’ve tried to.”

“I-I know. Well, I know now.”

Baz mouth tensed for a moment. “Did you think I’d tell my captor? I wouldn’t have. I never would’ve.”

Simon shook his head vigorously. “No no, not like. I trust you, Baz, I never thought you would do that. Honestly,” Simon sighed, “it was really selfish. I just hate the way people treat me as a prince. Like I’ll smack them if they don’t call me ‘your highness’. Even my friends talk about my royal duties a lot. But you...you never had to know. I could forget I was a prince and just...be myself with you.” He groaned and rubbed his forehead. “I’m sorry, it was stupid. I should’ve told you. You wouldn’t have treated me like that. I was just a coward.”

Baz put both hands over Simon’s. Their eyes met again. Baz didn’t look sad or confused anymore. He looked sympathetic, a small smile on his face, and Simon let out a breath.

“I understand,” he whispered. “It was a bad choice, don’t be mistaken. You should’ve told me. But I understand why. And your reason is better than what I assumed.” His face fell, but this time, he looked ashamed. “If we’re trading apologies, I’m sorry too, Simon. I was horrible to you, and you didn’t deserve that. I didn’t mean what I said. I don’t think you lied about your childhood, or were trying to trick me, or using me for fun. And I certainly shouldn’t have dismissed all the horrible things you went through. I felt hurt and I lashed out. Which is not an excuse either. I’m so, so sorry.”

Simon shifted closer, his knees touching Baz’s. “I understand. I forgive you too.”

Baz let out a very relieved breath, all the tension leaving his face. The air suddenly felt less heavy, and not just because the fire was gone. Simon smiled weakly at Baz.

“You’re sorry, I’m sorry,” he sighed over dramatically. “What a pair of sorry messes we are.”

That made Baz laugh. Just a small, breathy giggle mostly out of his nose. But it was everything. It made Simon grin and chuckle as well. Their forehead fell forward, pressed against each other. They laughed together in the small space between them. Simon reached up and cupped the back of Baz’s neck. Baz gasped and his eyes flew open. Simon immediately moved his hand off.

“Sorr-”

“No,” Baz breathed out. “No, it’s fine. Just...” His eyes flicked down, red spreading on his cheeks. “No one has ever touched me there, or like...that. Affectionately. Romantically...”

Simon’s own face flushed. He knew Baz was inexperienced, what with being imprisoned alone for years and all, but it was another thing to see him like this; looking down all blushy, being so adorably innocent. It made Simon smile so hard his cheeks hurt.

“Is it okay if I do?” Simon whispered.

Baz bit his bottom lip and nodded. So Simon slowly moved back towards Baz’s neck. He touched him again, finger by finger, until he was holding him again. Baz’s eyes fluttered shut and he let out a long sigh. Simon closed his own eyes, letting himself sink into the feeling. Baz’s skin was tepid, and strangely smooth for someone who lived in the woods. Simon found that amusing. Black bristles of hair tickled his fingers. He ran his thumb over Baz’s sharp cheekbone. Baz squeezed his wrist. They sat like that for a long time, simply breathing each other in.

“I like this,” Simon said quietly, when he had the confidence to. “What we’re doing right now, I like it. And I...I liked kissing you too. A lot”

Baz giggled, breath ghosting over Simon’s skin. “So you didn’t just kiss me to get me out of my suicidal funk?”

He meant it as a joke, but Simon didn’t want it to be a joke. It was horrible. He held Baz’s neck tighter, shaking his head against Baz’s. “No, it wasn't that. I really wanted to. I’ve wanted to since the festival.”

Baz’s breath audibly hitched. He squeezed Simon’s wrist. Their noses brushed, sending sparks through Simon’s nerves. “So have I. Maybe even longer.” Baz moved his hand further up Simon’s arm. “And I like what we’re doing too.”

He said it, but Baz’s voice was slightly strained. Simon pulled back so he could see his face. Baz was half smiling, but his eyes looked pained. And Simon immediately knew there was something else tumbling around in his big brain.

“But...?” he said.

Baz sighed, using one hand to push hair from his face. “But, I’m still stuck here, indefinitely. If we do...this, being together, you’re tying yourself to someone who’s cursed. Wouldn’t you rather be with someone more normal?”

Simon let out a disbelieving laugh. He couldn’t help it. Baz’s brow furrowed, his mouth pulling into a frown. Simon beamed at him, rubbing Baz’s neck slowly.

“Baz,” he said firmly, “you don’t have to worry about that. I don’t want to be with anyone else. Because you’re one of the only, sometimes the only person that I feel normal with.”

The pain went away from Baz’s face in an instant, replaced with a relaxed smile. He squeezed Simon’s forearm. “That, is the most eloquent thing you’ve ever said.”

Simon laughed again, and Baz quickly followed. Their foreheads tapped again. Simon’s hand moved across Baz’s face, ending with his thumb pressing just under his lower lip. The giggling immediately stopped. The air was heavy again, but with something different, something better.

“Can I kiss you again?” Simon asked before he lost his nerve.

“Yes,” Baz said immediately. “And you...you don’t have to ask. You just...can.”

Simon grinned, and leaned forward to kiss him. It wasn’t frantic this time. It was slow, languid. Of course Simon knew that Baz had never kissed anyone before, but it was a bit more obvious when they kissed slowly like this. He was hesitant and exploratory, trying to figure out what to do in the same methodical way he approached sword fighting. And like sword fighting, along with everything else he did, he quickly figured it out. He tilted his head just right, learned to slot his lips perfectly with Simon’s, and soon his movements became so confident it was like he’d been kissing Simon for a lifetime. Simon would happily have a lifetime of kissing Baz.

Once breath was scare, they pulled apart. Of course, that was when Simon yawned.

“You tired, Simon?” he teased.

“Fuck off,” Simon grumbled. “I was training all day then I had to stay up to come here.”

“Aw, you poor sleepy angel.”

Simon shoved Baz’s shoulder. Baz snickered and grabbed his hand. When he pressed his lips to back of it, Simon’s flush went down to his neck. Baz smirked. The bastard knew exactly what he was doing. It was a relief to have their usual camaraderie back though.

“C’mon,” Baz said, tugging Simon to his feet. “You need sleep.”

Simon pouted, too tired to feel ashamed. “I want to spend time with you. I haven’t seen you in a week.”

Baz’s lip quirked up. “That’s very sweet, Simon, but you won’t have much fun when you’re exhausted.”

“I always have fun with you though.”

Baz sighed, exasperated but amused. “As do I. But you still need to sleep. So how about you sleep tonight, and we’ll have fun the next time you’re here, alright?”

Simon considered arguing more, but Baz had a point. And there was no point arguing with him. He was just as stubborn Simon. It was annoying and amazing. Simon couldn’t have found someone better for him.

“Okay,” Simon sighed. “As long as you help me up.”

Baz’s small smile turned into a beaming grin. “Gladly, love.”

He tugged Simon to his feet, and even let Simon fall against him, strong lean arms wrapped around his back and holding him up. Baz brought them both into the cottage and gently shut the door behind them. The cot was pristine again. (Vera must’ve taught Baz to make a bed well.) Baz pulled back the thick quilt. Simon collapsed on the cot instantly, sleep permeating his bones and mind. He let his eyes slide shut. Distantly, he heard Baz kneel next to him, pulling the blanket over his body with a free hand. Simon felt Baz’s cool lips be pressed to his forehead. He shuddered. Before tonight, no one had ever kissed Simon anywhere except his mouth. It seemed both of them were experiencing new things tonight.

“Goodnight, Simon,” he said softly, then started to stand up.

“Mm, no,” Simon whined and tugged on Baz’s hand. “Stay.”

Baz inhaled sharply. “I don’t usually sleep during the night...”

“Don’t care. Just want you to stay.” He tugged again. “Please?”

Simon could almost hear Baz thinking up there. He waited for what felt like an eternity, trying to resist sleep. But then he felt the blanket push back and the cot dip. He smiled and let go of Baz’s hand, but only so he could place it over his heart. It was beating wildly against Simon’s palm. There was a tiny bit of space between them, Baz’s arm resting lamely between them, and it felt too far away.

“You can touch me,” Simon said. “I don’t mind.”

Baz audibly gulped. “I, uh, I don’t know how.”

Simon laughed under his breath. He grabbed Baz’s arm and laid it across his side. He pulled him even closer, so Simon’s nose was almost against his chest. Baz was still hesitant, but he left his arm where it was. Simon traced a finger over his collarbone, touching the edge of his cotton shirt, brushing against his delicate silver chain. Bit by bit, Baz’s arm held him tighter, fingers pressing into his back.

“G’night.” Simon almost added “I love you” to that, but there had been enough excitement for tonight. He would save those words for another time.

Baz pressed his nose into Simon’s hair. “Sweet dreams, Simon.”

And when Simon drifted off, his dreams were undistinguished, but they were made of light and happiness and warmth.

———————————————

Waking up next to Baz was infinitely different than any other way Simon had ever woken up. He felt it all come into focus one by one. Baz’s arm on his side, his nose in his hair, their legs pressed against each other. It was like there was a wall between him and the outside world. Nothing could touch them. Simon didn’t want anything to touch them. He wanted Baz forever.

Simon sighed and gripped his shirt. Baz’s arm squeezed him.

“Good morning,” Baz said into his hair.

Simon pulled back to see Baz’s face. His eyes were half lidded, a small smile on his mouth. He looked like someone on the verge of drifting off.

“Did you sleep?” Simon asked.

Baz shook his head. “No. I told you, I don’t sleep at night.”

“So what, you’ve just been watching me sleep?”

“Maybe.”

Simon frowned sarcastically. “Creeper.”

Baz chuckled, pressing a kiss to Simon’s temple, and Simon all but melted into the cot. He was so happy. He never thought he could be this happy. And from the look on Baz’s face, he was too.

He pushed a curl from Simon’s forehead and sighed heavily. There was clearly something on his mind.

“What is it?” Simon asked.

Baz gently cupped Simon’s face, and Simon leaned into it. “I’m just realising, I never thought I could hate this curse anymore than I already do. But I do now.”

Simon’s brows pulled together. “Why?”

“Because,” he sighed, running his thumb just under Simon’s  eye, “the sun’s about to come up. And once it does, I won’t be able to stay here holding you anymore.”

Simon’s entire face turned tomato red. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. No words felt sufficient for the supernova exploding in his chest. Baz chuckled.

“Cat got your tongue, Simon?”

“Shut up,” he mumbled.

Baz kept laughing, so Simon grabbed the back of his neck and pulled him down until their mouths met. Baz gasped, but quickly melted into it. His fingers were splayed against Simon’s cheek, his other hand against the small of his back. They kissed slowly, peacefully, like they had all the time in the world.

But unfortunately, the sun was coming up.

Simon pulled away with a small sigh. He looked out the small window to see the dark orange sky. He instinctively held Baz tighter.

“I have to go soon,” Baz said, voice breaking slightly.

“I know. But I’ll be back, and so will you. And...” Simon’s mind drifted back his rucksack outside, with the scone and the book. The book that might hold the key to Baz’s freedom. “And I found something out west that might really help with your curse. I’ll leave it here. You can read it tonight, if you want.”

Baz looked unsure, but he nodded anyway. “Okay. I’ll take a look.”

“Good, good.” He looked to the window again. The sun was getting closer to the horizon. The glow around Baz’s body started to show. Their time tonight was almost up. Simon’s gripped Baz’s hand tightly. He didn’t want to let go, not yet. “Um, I know you don’t like it when I see you as a swan, but...would it be okay if I stayed? For a bit? I-I’ll go when you’re asleep. I just, I want to stay with you for a little longer...”

Baz was quiet for a long moment, longer than was probably appropriate for the amount of time they had. His glow was getting worse. Simon didn’t let go of his hand, and neither did Baz.

“Okay,” he said, voice strained. “Just, stay in here until after the sun rises please?”

Simon nodded vigorously. “Yeah, yeah, of course.”

His grey eyes became unbelievably soft. He pressed a last kiss to his lips. When he pulled back, Simon chased his mouth, but Baz put a hand to his chest to keep him back. Simon let himself be pushed him back onto the cot. Baz stood up and walked to the door. His entire body was lit up now, minutes from changing. But he still took a second to look at Simon one more time. Simon smiled at him, and Baz smiled back just before he closed the door.

Simon flopped back on the bed, hand over his thundering chest. He needed a moment to catch his breath. So much had happened in less than twenty four hours. He and Baz were okay now. More than okay, they were together. Together in a way that involved soft words and kissing and everything Simon didn’t know he desperately wanted until Baz. Simon was grinning, he couldn’t stop grinning. He knew their problems weren’t over, but at least they had this. No matter what happened, they would have this.

The sunlight bled in through the window. Simon felt it was safe to get up. He slowly opened the cottage door, and opened it all the way when he saw the lake’s shore. Baz was sitting next to it, wings pulled in, neck still stretched up. His clothes were in a neat pile next to the door. Even though he had permission, Simon still walked toward him cautiously. Baz didn’t hop or fly away, so he took that as a good sign. He sat just next to Baz, knees pulled up and one hand on the ground between them.

“Uh, hi,” Simon said. “I-I don’t know what to say now, since you can’t really respond. With words...” Baz let out a series of little honks, which Simon assumed was the swan equivalent of a chuckle. Simon laughed and scooched closer. “Yeah, yeah, shut up.” He leaned even closer, but still kept a reasonable distance “I know you want to sleep, I won’t keep you up. I just, I wanted to do this because I want you to know that I...care about you no matter what. Swan or human. If that makes sense.”

He looked down. But it was hard to read Baz’s emotions when he was a swan. Simon was worried. Baz could see it completely differently. He didn’t like being a swan, maybe he didn’t want Simon to care for him at all like this, because he didn’t care for himself like this. But Simon did, and he wanted Baz to know.

He scratched at the back of his neck. “Can I, um, can I touch you?”

Baz’s eyes met his. It was still that deep sea grey. No matter what form, his eyes were gorgeous. He nodded his small bird head once, and Simon let out a sigh of relief. Simon placed a hand between his wings, just laying it on his black feathers and silver chain. He didn’t pet Baz though. That felt rude. Baz wasn’t a wild animal, and Simon wouldn’t treat him like one. And Baz seemed content. He curled his neck around and placed his head on Simon’s hand, eyes sliding shut. Simon’s heart felt so full it was painful.

In that moment, he made a promise to himself; he was never going to lose Baz ever again.

———————————————

AN: Aw, aren't they cute? :) Yeah, I can't keep them apart for too long. Next chapter is the longest one in the fic, I think, and the knight and warlock fic is still in the works (that's going slowly because of my headaches unfortunately) so look forward to those! Hope you enjoyed this :D

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REAL OR FAKE, THE SOCIETY OF ESOTERICA? 

Dedicated to finding information on the ever elusive individuals who associate themselves with Thayne Whittal. Post your stories here, discuss your questions with other believers, and find answers within!

          MY STORY.             (Posted by avery_monaghan763 on 12/27/18) Sorry if it’s a bit long, there’s a lot to unpack here. tl;dr: He’s been in my life for years and I only found out about why on my wedding day. I’m confused and want answers.

I, for one, have never believed in magic.

My loving parents raised me in a very straight-backed Christian household; anything that broke the mold of what they thought was 'proper' got a one-way ticket to the Satanism basket, never to be heard from again. This meant a lot of Veggie Tales, and absolutely no Sesame Street because Bert and Ernie were a little too friendly. Of course, as I got older, I began to break the mold, and after three or four excursions to Jesus camps, they gave up in trying to make me fit the idyllic lifestyle they had set out for me.

Harry Potter was my first exposure to the idea of magic that wasn't Christ-related. I thought it was a load of bullshit, but Hermione was cute, so my thirteen year-old-mind was able to keep up with the series well enough. After that came Lord of the Rings, and I liked it enough as any seventeen-year-old going through their D&D phase. But, I soon came to the realization that the magic in these worlds wasn't even close to the truth.

I first met Thayne Whittal in college. He was sitting on a bench, on the same path I took to get to Calc from my dorm-room, and I was already ten minutes late. Looking back at it, I dismiss my wishes of waking up earlier that morning, else I might not have met this extraordinary individual. There was a stack of books next to him, and despite the heavy winds that afternoon, they didn't budge. In his hand he held a copy of what I now know to be the Canterbury Tales, reading to himself quietly in the original Olde English. The only reason I stopped and pair enough attention to notice this, was the fact that I felt completely and utterly compelled to do so. It was an epiphany at noon, expanded only by my panicked, still half-awake mind; and so utterly clear that it broke me out of this state.

This man was something worth looking at.

He was lumbering tall, broad in his shoulders; Hagrid with more care to manscaping, I thought; and he wore a long, beige Chesterfield. I couldn't see his shirt underneath at the time, but I could see that it was very colorful, contrasting against the loosely-wrapped navy blue scarf around his neck. When I stopped to gawk at him, his eyes flickered up to look at me, and he smiled. As if he'd known me his entire life, he smiled, and it was inviting and warm and kind all at the same time; unnerving, but comforting. A contradiction of contradictions within itself. The only words he'd said to me this day were, "Good afternoon," before going back to reading his collection of tales. After he spoke, my brain started again, and I simply sputtered out an awkward, "You too," before going on my way.

The next time I met him, I was on my way to get coffee with my now Husband, who was incredibly understanding of my situation and allowed me a pass for missing our date that day. Thayne sat about four blocks away from the niche place, and looked exactly the same as he had when I'd seen him four years previous. This time, however, I saw his shirt clearer; a gaudy Hawaiian button-up, baby blue with near-fluorescent flamingos and palm trees spattered about. I might have laughed at him, if he weren't already laughing. He still held Canterbury Tales, and was chuckling to himself as he turned the page. His voice was a deep, gravelly thing, and though he hadn't spoke, I could hear the lilt of his accent atop it all. Once again, I felt compelled to stop in front of him, except this time, I spoke first.

"Do I know you?" I blurted out, almost yelling over the bustle of the street before us.

Thayne looked at me, perplexed, and squinted; scrutinizing my face for a moment before nodding. "I worked at WSU," he said. "You might have been a student of mine."

My alma mater, where I'd seen him first. I shook my head, daring to step closer. "No, I don't think I was. You, God, this sounds crazy; you were reading that," I gestured to the book in his hands. "And bid me a good afternoon."

As if he'd struck some wondrous part of his mind, he closed the book without marking his page, and beckoned me over. I sat next to him, carefully, as he spoke. "Ah, right! You looked horrible."

He wasn't wrong, I thought, but I was still offended.

"You looked horrible, but; did you at least pass the class?"

"I did." I told him. "Took some time, but I did."

"You're welcome." He said, a verbal nudge to my side as if we were friends catching up.

"I'm sorry?" I asked, completely and utterly confused by this enigma of a man.

"Do you recall what happened that day, in your class? Specifically, what happened to your professor?"

I did, "He was... late, showed up at the same time as me."

"You're welcome."

"I'm not following."

"Not many people do. You're a leader, Avery Monaghan, keep leading. I must be going, though; I'll see you in a few years."

I blinked at him, rapidly, but between the darkness, he had disappeared. Just like that; a breath of wind took him once more, and I was left with many questions. What did he do to make my professor late, that day? Was this man dangerous? And, why did he refer to me with a last name that wasn't my own?

Monaghan is my husband's surname; one that I'd take in the coming years. I didn't know it at the time, so it didn't stand out to me until much later. From that day forward, I could not get Thayne Whittal off of my mind, despite not knowing his name, or anything about him other than the fact that he was the strangest individual I had ever met.

But, things began to happen in my life that I could not explain. Not the kind of things in the realm of ghosts knocking things off of shelves, or UFOs in the sky, but things that seemed too convenient, too good to be true. Like before, if I were terribly late to something important, the person (or people) attending would be late, too. The night my husband and I got engaged, it was a completely clear sky, not too cold; but it began to snow. I loved the snow, and I remember my husband remarking that it was perfect. It was magical.

I saw Thayne again at my wedding. He didn't have his great stack of books this time, and instead wore a crisp white shirt with a bow-tie made of black velvet instead of a scarf. He was out of place, yet blended in perfectly like my friends and family. My grandmother was deep in conversation with him when I noticed him, and he raised a single hand to wave at me. Grandma motioned me over, and I broke away from my husband to make my way toward them.

"You know Thayne?" Grandma asked, accusatory, once I was in ear-shot. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

"We were colleagues in college," Thayne interjected. "And you know, with degrees like ours, there isn't time to remember everyone. I'm sure Avery didn't mean to keep you in the dark, Matilda."

"Right, I... uh, can I talk to you alone, for just a moment?" I asked him, and Grandma looked absolutely affronted that I was tearing her away from him. He simply smiled, nodded, gave her a peck on the cheek, and made a promise that he'd be back in a 'tiff.'

We walked outside of the tent that my small, happy-ending wedding was held in, and Thayne looked at the stars as he spoke, wonder in his eyes. "I'm happy for you," he said, and then looked down at me. "Jason's a good man."

"I—Thank you, but—"

"You have a lot of questions." He cut me off, again, and this time, it annoyed me.

"I do; can you just, let me talk?"

He raised a brow, but stayed silent.

I then recounted everything that I could remember; the lateness, the snow, how everything fell into place and how it wasn't right. Something was off, and I knew he had something to do with it, and if he ever thought of hurting anyone I knew, I'd call the cops in a second. He didn't look hurt by my words, but his eyes softened considerably, and he bobbed his head in agreement to them.

"It was me," He said, clearly, as if it were obvious the entire time. "But you've only just started to notice, haven't you?"

I didn't know what he meant.

Thayne seemed to know this, and continued. "When you were seven years old, you were playing baseball with a cousin in the back yard of your grandmother's home. You knew Matilda would be furious if you broke anything, so you took care to make sure you tossed the ball gently to Henry; but he hit it too hard, and the window shattered. You were devastated, and thought for sure, your baseball-rights would be taken away the second she noticed."

"I... I remember, but the ball didn't shatter the window, it—"

"Bounced off." He finished my sentence. "And the time when you were about to spill sangria all over your Aunt Jennifer's new carpet because you wanted to try the adult's drink,"

"The nozzle stopped before anything got out," I finished.

"And, nobody saw you."

"I don't understand." I finally said, and Thayne looked to the stars again.

"You weren't allowed to believe in anything as a child," He said, and he almost sounded sad. "So you didn't see it. You didn't remember it. I don't blame you; who could? But, as you got older, you saw it more often. Saw me, more often. I hoped you'd notice eventually, and you have. You... remind me of my daughter, Charlie. So did Matilda. And your mother. The only difference," He placed a hand on my shoulder, impossibly warm. "Is that you and Matilda believed. You believed, even if you thought you didn't; even if all odds said you shouldn't. You allowed yourself to, and I tried to help in every way I could; between time, and hardships, and everything in between."

There was a long silence between us, and I looked to the sky, too. Millions of stars stared back at me, and for the first time, I saw it all; the belt of the universe, dusky hues of space making themselves known to me, and I started to cry. Thayne said nothing, only holding onto my shoulder and squeezing it, gently, despite his size. "It's beautiful, what the mind can do when we open ourselves to the truth." He said, and I could tell he was looking at me again, even if I didn't look at him.

"Thank you," I said.

"You're welcome."

That was the last of what I saw of Thayne Whittal. Grandma was furious that he was gone again, but, once she saw my tears; it was as if she knew what had happened. She hugged me, for the first time in years, that night, and my wonderful husband let me spend the rest of the reception with her; talking about Thayne, what he had done for her, for my mother. She told me that on the night we buried Mom, he was there, and the stars were brighter than they had ever been that night. He had told her that it was because she was with them, and her fire fueled them all.

This is why I write on this forum, now. I want to know if anyone out there is like me; I've read some of your stories and have marveled at them for hours upon hours, at the kindness of this man, and claims you all make. I don't know how much of it is real, how much of it is bullshit, and how many of you are trolls looking for a good time with stories of time travel and magic.

But, I believe in it now. And I want answers, like the rest of you. Who, or what Thayne is; what he can do; and who else is like him. Thank you, for your time, and I hope we can all try to come to some sort of consensus about this all.

EDIT [12/31/18]: To answer your questions, no, my husband has never seen him. I asked him about it all, told him my story; I don't think he believes it all, but told me that he's never seen or heard about Thayne. My son, who will be three this upcoming January, hasn't seen him, either. I asked simple questions, like if he'd seen a big man in a big coat, and he completely disregarded it all in favor of paying attention to Doc McStuffins. Toddlers. Go figure.

EDIT [1/24/19]: My grandmother passed away today. It broke all of our hearts, but it was a long time coming, and as my husband put it, "She's in a better place." Where that place is, I don't know, but I'm glad she's there. Thayne wasn't at the funeral, like I hoped he'd be. I wonder if he knows. If he knew, and that's why he didn't come. Grief is a heavy thing on the heart, and I'm going to miss her loads. I just wished that he might have been there to help ease the heaviness.

EDIT [1/26/19]: Thank you for your well-wishes. It's my son's birthday, today, and we're trying to smile through the pain. There's been a raven on our balcony the entire morning, and I was wondering if anyone knew anything about the Bird Theory? Message me, if you do, and I'll update the post if anything happens with it.

[nonbinary-weirdo]

Bard x Timber, their love formed after an explosion got Bard stuck under rubble, which Timber saved him from.

Meyrin x Thompson. They fell for one another after Mey fell from a stairway, right into his awaiting arms saving her from a broken neck.

Finny x Canterbury, they hit it off after Finny fell into a river which Canterbury got him out using a tree.

[theblondegoesabroad]

Day 5

Friday 6th May 2022

Today we decided to have a lazy day. We slept in, then did a bit of “planning” for our day. We found a park that we planned to spent the afternoon at with our books. Then we got up and made an early lunch. While we were cooking our vege pasta dish we received a message from the guy that we parked our car at. Essentially parking in London is so expensive so we found an application where people rent their parking spots outside their house etc, and so instead of paying like 120£ for a parking building we ended up paying only 10£! Anyway, the man messaged us this morning saying that his sister had two free tickets as she is the flute player in a concert tonight. It is a concert put on at the science museum with music from Ancient Greek. Not something we would usually go to nor pay for but we decided not to turn down the opportunity. So instead of going to our park and lazing around for the day. We changed our plans. The science museum is near Notting hill so instead we decided to spend the afternoon there. We once again walked into city and on to Notting hill. Although today we slowed our pace. Normally we are speeding along at a very fast walk but today to give ourselves a break we walked a bit slower and stopped a bit more often. We stopped for coffee in a park near the Thames river. We sat in the garden, made the most of the sunshine and admired the flowers. It was stunning. And the coffee was pretty good too. Then we were off again, we headed through the famous Trafalgar Square to Hyde park. We walked through the park and once again admired all the flowers, trees ans nicely cut lawn. Honestly London is a very well manicured city, even with all the tourists, it is very clean. As we headed out of the park we found an Italian gelato place, so we stopped for ice cream. It was delicious. And then we were in Notting hill. A stunning neighbourhood. We walked down portobello road which is a famous street with heaps of stalls ans outdoor markets before heading back through the suburbs a bit. Benoît bought himself a slice of pizza and we ate that on our way back through Hyde park. We explored a bit more of the area, with its big buildings. We were in more of the University and museum park of town and so found the uni bar to order a cheap pint before we headed into the science museum for the Greek music concert. It was an interesting experience. The first half was based around a artificial reconstructed instrument, similar to a harp. They had used 3D modelling and algorithms to remodel the sound of an ancient instrument, that can now be played on the key board, as they reconstructed the sounds of each note and then transcribed it to an electric keyboard note structure. It was pretty neat and they played some never before heard music found from the 1700. So an old instrument playing “new”

Music. Then the second half they had actual rebuilt/remade an old instrument. A two piped flute essentially and had found ancient sheet music inscribed on columns. They learnt how to read it in Ancient Greek, described to us how they read it and what it all means and then two completely excited historians came to play for us. They were incredibly enthusiastic as anyone would be after finding their calling by combining their passions as an musician and Ancient Greek historian. A very small niche I can imagine! They played for us and honestly it was impressive. They were very talented and it’s not every day you hear Ancient Greek music played on ancient instruments. After the “concert” we headed home. as we passed by all the bars and pubs alive with people, we laughed at ourselves, we really aren’t night owls, and maybe going to museum concerts with 60 year olds is our new demographic. Pair that with the camping in Canterbury and you might even call it a trend haha! So yes we headed home and fell into bed! Love Kate xxxx

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