#lilac-giraffe

[textless]

I mostly stayed close to home in Arizona in 2023, except for a giant amazing trip to Kenya in July. These are five of my favorite photos from the trip, for this year's Gray-Card Memorial Top Five:

Baby elephant, keeping up

Lions together

Lilac breasted roller

Mother and baby giraffe

Sunset acacia

I feel lucky to have seen these things, and would remember them anyway... but it's awfully nice to have pictures to look back on.

Happy new year, Tumblr.

[germplush]

say hi to Aoiko, they/it/star pronouns. they are a crochet star we got of Etsy years ago. they're a genderless sexless ageless star but very childlike. they can fly for shoet periods of time but usually needs to be held. they're chronically ill. it fell from the sky their god said they were a disgrace and useless as a star for not being perfect. they have big attachment issues.

[irlpretear]

100 trans/genderqueer musicians

Bands

Against Me! (rock, folk punk) (x)

The Oozes (punk) (x)

The Hirs Collective (metal, grindcore) (x)

GEL (hardcore punk) (x)

Urn (hardcore punk) (x)

The Black Dresses (noise pop, hardcore hyperpop) (x)

Party Ghost (rock) (x)

Lagrimas (hardcore punk, scream punk) (x)

Doll Skin (rock) (x)

Dazey and the Scouts (rock, indie) (x)

G.L.O.S.S. (hardcore punk) (x)

Dog Park Dissidents (punk rock) (x)

She/Her/hers (rock) (x)

Deli Girls (hardcore electronic) (x)

Dream Nails (punk rock) (x)

Sarah and the Safe Word (rock, dark cabaret) (x)

Pinkie Promise (punk rock) (x)

B. Fraser (emo) (x)

Newgrounds Death Rugby (emo) (x)

Scowl (hardcore punk) (x)

Feminazgul (black metal) (x)

Sports Bra (dream pop, light rock) (x)

Club Sofa (indie pop) (x)

The Cost ov Living (grindcore, harsh noise) (x)

Kuromy (punk) (x)

The Sonder Bombs (indie, pop) (x)

Lidocaine (rock) (x)

I'm letting unseen forces take the wheel (cybergrind) (x)

Gum Disease (punk) (x)

Cam Girl (rock, trash rock) (x)

Gully Boys (grunge pop) (x)

Arcadia Grey (sparkle punk) (x)

Schmekel (folk punk) (x)

Destructo Disk (punk rock) (x)

User Unauthorized (hardcore punk) (x)

The Spook School (indie pop) (x)

Pinkshift (emo) (x)

Glass Beach (emo) (x)

Butch Baby (light rock) (x)

VIAL (indie punk) (x)

Sister Wife Sex Strike (folk punk) (x)

homewrecker. (metal, hardcore punk) (x)

Mega Mango (indie rock) (x)

Keep For Cheap (prarie rock) (x)

Steam Powered Giraffe (cabaret, steampunk) (x)

Thotcrime (grindcore, cybergrind) (x)

Whirlybird (indie pop) (x)

Kampsport (hardcore punk) (x)

Um Jennifer? (alt-rock, punk) (x)

Scarlet Demore (alt-rock) (x)

HappyHappy (folk, folk-punk) (x)

Queen Zee (punk) (x)

Grumpy Plum (slop pop) (x)

Cheap Perfume (punk) (x)

Pollyanna (power-pop, rock) (x)

Ballista (metalcore) (x)

Faetooth (fairy doom, metal) (x)

Lacerated (death metal) (x)

Fortuna Malvada (hardcore punk) (x)

Peach Rings (bedroom power-pop) (x)

Solo Artists

Laura Jane Grace (rock, folk punk) (x)

Left at London (pop) (x)

ZAND (pop, ugly pop) (x)

Ada Rook (hardcore electronic) (x)

Ms. White (pop) (x)

Rett Madison (indie, folk) (x)

Murder Person for Hire (folk) (x)

Backxwash (rap, industrial hip hop) (x)

LustSickPuppy (electronic, rap) (x)

Babylungs (electronic, rap) (x)

Human Kitten (folk punk) (x)

Harley Poe (folk punk) (x)

Ewy (emo, folk punk) (x)

Averstaskta (instrumental) (x)

Andie Schoen (indie) (x)

Elliot Lee (dark pop, electronic rock) (x)

Urias (hip hop, ballroom) (x)

Twink Obliterator* (cybergrind) (x)

Rio Romeo (cabaret punk, indie) (x)

Knife Girl (art pop, indie) (x)

Alexander James Adams (folk) (x)

Starmaxx (pop) (x)

Sofya Wang (pop, alt-R&B) (x)

Boy Jr (indie/alt pop) (x)

Medusa (revenge pop, hip-hop) (x)

Mal Blum (singer-songwriter, folk) (x)

Gina Young (riot grrrl) (x)

Petra Fiyd (indie pop) (x)

awfultune (bedroom pop) (x)

Quinn Hills (alternative pop) (x)

Femtanyl (electronic) (x)

Vivivivivi (electronic, glitchcore) (x)

Lilac Boy (glitchcore) (x)

Rosie Tucker (indie rock) (x)

Ryan Cassata (singer-songwriter) (x)

Pain Chain (noise, synth) (x)

In Love With A Ghost (electronic, lo-fi) (x)

Alice Longyu Gao (hyperpop) (x)

Prophetic Nightmares (ambient synthwave) (x)

Saint Wellesley (indie folk) (x)

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows 4

Warnings: non/dubcon, clashing personalities, exclusion, and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

Characters: moody boy Curtis Everett x bubbly, plus-size reader

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.

You vow yourself to confinement. You will not leave your desk for any reason. You even brought a thermos of coffee. The container is a honey brown and the lid has bear ears, an animated face painted on the metal. It makes you smile despite the gloom that clouds you.

You don’t know how it happens. You always mean well but things always end up so wrong. So you’ve determined you’re better off on your own. Minding your own business and getting through the work day without calamity.

It’s lonely. You eat your lunch in your cubicle, watching a crochet video on the small screen of your phone. You still can’t figure out how to get just the right shape for the hippo you’ve been working on. It’s the final piece in your collection; to go along with the giraffe, the elephant, lion, and zebra. With your new job, you haven’t even had the energy to try.

You get back to work, eyes fuzzy as you stare at the spreadsheet. Millennia of human existence and for what? For excel and stale coffee? Is this really progress?

You reign in your wandering mind and work through the numbers. You just want to get through your first week. That will be a feat you can be proud of. You drain the last lukewarm sip from your thermos and pout. You could really use a refill but you will resist. You can’t risk it.

At the end of the day, you sneak out down the stairwell. You’re breathless by the time you reach the bottom, dizzy from the winding levels above. You shake it off and head off. You could use a nice hot bath, those office chairs are really not comfy.

Your night goes by as any does. You get your bath and eat some ramen before tucking into bed and mindlessly scrolling on your phone. You fall asleep with the light on and wake up to the blare of your alarm the next morning. 

It’s Friday! You get up and get dressed. A lilac skirt that buttons up the front and a frilly white blouse on top. You pull on a lemon yellow cardigan and a pair of matching flats. It’s bright and fun! Unlike anything else in that gray office.

You shove one of the pillows from the couch into your bag, the one that looks like a sprinkle donut, and grab your thermos. You race out to catch the bus and throw yourself into the day ahead. You just need to make it to the end and you have the whole weekend ahead of you.

Once at your cubicle, you settle in. You place the donut pillow on the thin cushion of the office chair and kneel on the floor as you work at readjusting the backrest and arms. You get up and plop down, testing the height and swiveling a bit. It’s slightly better.

You roll closer to your desk and boot up for the day. You reach for your pen cup but stop short as you find only the boring Bic sticks that overflow the supply cupboards. Huh?

You reach under your desk and grab your bag. You stir around, certain you careless slid your pen in there. You can’t find it! Your most favourite pen is gone. There’s a tiny penguin at the end and the pen’s body is filled with water and glitter that shimmers and looks like falling snow. Where is it?

Your panic has you searching the empty drawers of the desk and down on your knees crawling around. You don’t find it. You give up as your chest sinks and you mope at your monitor, clicking mindlessly on your Outlook and the company’s shared drive. 

You sit back and uncap your thermos. You take a drink and nearly choke. Oh no! It’s so bitter it leaves your tongue gritty. The filter must’ve split in the machine again. You let out a blech and get up, letting your chair roll back carelessly.

You go down to the break room and dump the coffee down the sink. That’s when you remember you’re not supposed to be in there. Shoot. You look around. It’s empty. You should have time enough to fill your cup.

You go to the machine and pick a pod from the rack. You don’t pay attention to the flavour, you just want coffee. You wait for the machine to grind and claim your cup as the brew stops below the brim. You quickly retreat back to your desk and sit, leaving the lid off the thermos to let it cool.

Ow! Your tailbone hits the thin seat and jars your spine. You get up and look down at the barren cushion. Your pillow is gone. What the heck?

You roll the chair around, thinking maybe you knocked it off when you stood up. It’s not that hard to miss. Nope, it’s gone. 

You look over at Dana as he yawns over a Starbucks cup. She has no donut under her bottom. Who would do that? Who would steal your pillow? You chew your lip and resign yourself to another day of discomfort.

You taste the coffee. Mmm, it must be the dark roast. It’s full-bodied and rich, slightly smoky. You don’t usually go for it, you prefer more caffeine. It might be good for you, you really don’t need the extra jitter.

You plant your elbow beside your keyboard and fall into your work. The office awakens around you. The clack of keys, the clicking of mice, and the low voices that rise and fall over cubicle walls. 

You lean back and check the time. Barely an hour in. You stretch your neck and massage your shoulders as you try to work out the kink of your poor posture. As you do, you sense a shadow approach Dana’s desk. You shift your chair and peek over, quickly wheeling back to your desk to hunch down and hide. It’s him.

“Phillips,” he calls her by her last name, “you still in charge of supplies?”

“Morning, Curtis,” she replies tritely, “what is it? We don’t have budget left for tech upgrades until end of month.”

“Coffee,” he growls, “dark roast.”

You tap your foot nervously. You didn’t know he liked the dark roast. If you did, you wouldn’t have taken the last pod. Maybe you should offer him what you have left… no, you should just leave him be.

“I’ll add it to the list,” Dana acquisces dismissively, “anything else?”

He grunts but doesn’t answer as he pivots on his heel. You peek up above the wall of your cubicle and immediately regret it. His attention is drawn by the movement and his eyes meet yours as his features twist into a scowl. You try to smile and he rolls his eyes before setting his shoulders and striding away.

Oh, you have an idea!

[liam-neesons-best-girl]

Confessions {Qui-Gon Jinn x Reader}

approx. 1,000 words

Summary: You and Anakin blow off some steam by getting drunk together. When you return back for the night you are greeted by Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan Kenobi who insist you get to bed. As Qui-Gon prepares you to sleep, he hears your drunken confessions; of love and insecurities.

Warnings: F! reader, insecurities, drunkenness, (Anakin and reader are in their 20s), reader and Anakin are platonic, angst, 18+

As you return back to the grounds from your impulsive bar hopping with Anakin, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon are the first people you see. Disappointment is clearly written all over their faces, since two of their best Jedis are coming home past curfew and three sheets to the wind.

"sshhhh Ani, someone could hear us," you giggle out whisper yelling as he trips over his feet like a new born giraffe.

"Sorry, which way do we go," he asked with a tilted head, not sure if he could recognize the corridors in the dark.

"This way, follow m-" you started as you turned left but were cut off by the strong chest of Master Qui-Gon who was just around the corner.

Behind Qui-Gon was Obi-Wan, who could not hold back his giddiness. He wasn't angry at your antics. He loved that you and Anakin were acting like normal young people but had to put on a poker face for Qui-Gon as he handed down punishments.

Your cheeks were flush, scarlet with embarrassment for getting caught by someone you respected so highly. You were always trying to please Qui-Gon. It was an unspoken truth that you were his favorite padawan; because of your discipline in learning the ways of the force and in the longing glances you both exchanged over the past many months.

Qui-Gon's piercing gaze fixes on Anakin, and then shifts to you, his brow furrowing as he detects something beneath the surface. He knew that bar hopping wasn't your idea. Anakin was corrupting the sweet girl beside him, and Qui-Gon was not going to stand for it.

"Anakin, Obi-Wan will escort you back to your quarters," Qui-Gon ordered, putting an end to the night's activities. "And you," he turned and lowered his gaze to your sheepish figure, "come with me."

You nod in comply and Qui-Gon gently takes you by the hands, leading you to your bedroom. Yawning the whole way there, Qui-Gon's anger fades into protectiveness, just wanting to make sure you don't hurt yourself and sleep off as much as you can of what will be a massive hangover.

He shuts the door quietly, as to not startle you with any loud sounds and sees you struggling to remove your tunic. Your arms are stuck three quarters of the way out and the twisting of your shoulders isn't making the fabric roll up your back as you hoped it would.

"hhmph! Qui, could you help me, pretty pleasssssse," you slur out to him for assistance. He doesn't want to risk any impropriety but seeing you struggle was enough to throw all of the norms out the window.

"Relax your arms," he said, reaching for the hem of the shirt to pull over your head. Free from the straight jacket tunic, you stood before him in your lilac lace bra.

He let out a shallow breath as he looked down at you, remarking to himself how soft and cuddly your skin appears to be, and the way the lace of the bra seems to be painted on your breasts, fitting perfectly to the swell of your chest.

In no time flat you have removed your bottoms and exposed you cheeky bum to him, clad in lilac panties, matching your bra.

Oblivious to the tension of the situation, since your mentor is a foot away from your practically naked form you ask, "would you tuck me in?"

He nods, and follows you to the edge of the bed. He watches you cuddle into the silky soft sheets and nuzzle up to your pillow. Qui-Gon loosely drapes the blanket around your form and shift to get up as you reach for his wrist.

"Is there something else you need of me?" he asked, thinking you would ask for another blanket or for a glass of water.

You hesitate, feeling a wave of insecurity wash over you. "Can you… stay? Just for a little while? Just to talk?"

"What is it you would like to talk about?" he inquired, knowing you already confide in him as a mentor for your Jedi training. For some reason he could sense that this would be a different kind of conversation.

"Qui-Gon?" you say barely a whisper.

"Yes?" he replies, his gaze fixed on you with unwavering attention.

"Am… am I pretty?" you ask, your voice tinged with uncertainty.

"What?" Qui-Gon's brow furrows in confusion. "Of course, you are," he says, his tone leaving no room for doubt. "You are beautiful, both inside and out."

Tears fell at the corners of your eyes as Qui-Gon's words wash over you, colliding with some of the negative feelings of your own body's image in your mind. The alcohol had gotten the best of your emotions.

"Then why… why don't boys like me?" you whisper, your voice trembling with emotion. "I mean, I try to be nice and friendly but no body seems to look at me. Like I train, and I train, and I train but I am still soft and nervous around people. I feel like this is a never ending cycle of disappointment. I'm too ugly for my own good."

You end your rant with a heavy heart and a long silent pause. You slowly lift your head from where it is on your pillow to see if Qui-Gon left. Instead, his gaze meets yours with a flicker of angry passing through his eyes.

"They are complete fools," he said passionately. "They fail to see you for your truest form. You tower over them in intellection, and float by them with elegance and grace."

"But Qui-" you sit up and raise your hand to stop him but he continues.

"No, you should never feel less than because these dumb boys don't see what I see in you."

For the first time in a long while, you allow yourself to believe that maybe, just maybe, you are worthy of love.

"I'm sorry for getting so worked up. Its time to rest now," he says, settling in next to you in bed, sat up, and rubbing your back soothingly over the covers.

You welcome the feeling of his hands and of his warmth radiating over the entire bed.

"Thank you," you whisper to him as you drift of to sleep.

Of course, starlight. I want you to feel loved. I will always be here for you.

[actual-changeling]

Joel thought he would never hear her laugh like this again, light and melodic and laced with a childlike innocence he knows she lost long ago, but it's spring and the snow has melted and she is giggling.

She is playing with a puppy, watching it overestimate its own speed and tumble to the ground, holding it with the same gentleness he feels in his own hands when he touches her, basking in the pure expression of joy only animals are capable of. They're free of untainted memories, the air smells like roses and lilac, his fingertips have been numbed by his guitar strings, and Ellie turns to look at him with a smile, a memory that has carried him through winter.

The sun has yet to grow hot but it is already turning her hair into shimmering copper, her ends barely reaching past her shoulders, and when she remains unbothered by the breeze blowing through it, strands tickling the back of her neck, he knows he will get to watch it grow again, watch her grow.

After not being a father for twenty years, the thought of experiencing another childhood, no matter how broken, no matter how short, fills him with equal parts of fear and devotion. Her spark is still there, the twinkle in her eye when she asks can we keep her, the brightness illuminating her face when he says yes and doesn't bother to hide his smile. There are crocuses in the grass, bright specks of color among the morning dew, and Ellie's skin when she presses her cheek into his palm is softer than their petals.

Joel remembers the giraffe, the dog and her in the snow after his world had stopped, her laughter anchoring him back down, her tiny hands that should have never had to aim a gun softly holding their horses face so she can press a kiss to his nose.

All he can do is stretch out his arms and offer her a space to grow, the promise of an embrace whenever she needs it, a constant I love you he cannot quite say, not yet, but only the innocence preserved in the trusting eyes of an animal, the carefree joy of a toddler in her arms, can help her find her childhood again.

There is too much violence in the world, too many memories haunting them to ever escape the pain, but Ellie presses herself against his side, warm, alive, happy, and she is laughing again.

It's enough.

[chaotic-catholic]

My Poppy Playtime Logic AU ships

My AU is a crossover with Mickey Mouse (comics/Mix-Up Adventures), BATIM and Cartoon Cat btw :)

StarStudent ⭐️💡 : KickinChicken (Wyatt O'Hara) x Bubba Bubbaphant (Alvin Pickett)

AppleLove 🍎❤️ : PickyPiggy (Olivia "Via O'Hara) x Bobby Bearhug (Amanda "Mandy" Wugson)

SunFlower ☀️🌻 : DogDay (Cyrus O'Hara) x CraftyCorn (Calista "Cali" Boulder)

ThunderDrop ⚡️💧 : Hoppy Hopscotch (Megan Boulder) x Frowny Fox (Todd Hunnie)

MoonCow 🔔🌙 : Molly McMoo (Serena Hunnie) x CatNap (Theodore "Theo" Wugson)

[I no longer ship the Smiling Critters out of respect for the lead artist's wishes to not ship them :)]

Kiss&hug 🩷💙 : Kissy Missy (Melissa "Missy" Kissinger) x Huggy Wuggy (Huggard Wugson). Besides Bobby Bearhug, CatNap and Poppy they also adopted Amethyst (oc), Lime, Lemon, Rose, Iris (Mini Huggies) and Thierry (Xavier's son)

SpiderParents 🕷🩷💙 : Mommy Long Legs (Marie "Molly" Payne) x Daddy Long Legs (John Clerck). Sissy Long Legs (Cindy) is part of the family along side Brother Long Legs/GT Baby Long Legs (Carlson) and canon Baby Long Legs (Jasper)

JokingFlower 🦕 🌼 : Bron (Thomas Clarke) x Daisy Green. They adopted Bunzo Bunny (Buddy) and Baby Bunzo (Kazi), Buddy is 15 years and got the job to pay his top surgery

MusicBox 💛❤️ : Boxy Boo (Bobbi Turner) x Box She Boo (Barbara "Barbie" Rutter). Roxy, Soxy and Paul are their children rather than Boxy Boo's younger sibling figures

LoveHoney : 💚🍯 : Love Bug (Liliana "Lili" Bianca Payne) x Lilly the Frog (Pamela Hunnie). Molly and Cathy took the news of becoming stepsisters suprisingly well

CandyBee 🍬🐝 : Candy Cat (Candace Caisley) x Cat-Bee (Catherine "Cathy" Beatrice Hunnie). Besides Molly McMoo and Frowny Fox they also adopted Clever Claws (Leo), Jolly Jaws (Sunny), Silly Shelly (Darell) and Jerry Giraffe (Edric)

LoveMic 💜🎤 : Lovey Dovey (Lovina "Lovey" Dove Kissinger) x Billy Beagle. They have a baby daughter named Holly

FlowerCat 🌸🐈 : Amethyst "Amy" Wugson x Sylvester "Sly" Catt. Amy was originally named Lilac because I thought that was the color I'll get if I mix up Huggy and Kissy's color (Gametoons version) but I was mistaken and found a flower named Amethyst. Amy is genderqueer (any pronouns)

AcidicMusic 🍋🎵 : Lemon Wugson x Melody Radeville. Radeville because her greatuncle is Mortimer Radeville

LimeSpot 💚🖤 : Lime Wugson x Bucky Blackspot. He has two other brother Barry and Barty. Lime is demi-girl (she/they)

PenMill 🖤💜 : Penelope "Penny" Blackspot x Melinda "Millie" Radeville. Penny is genderfluid (any pronouns)

They plenty more but I'm gonna stop there

[timeofjuly]

And Four Papyri in a Pear Tree

Chapter 1 - Smooth Operator

Summary: Rus takes you ice skating for the first time and despite some initial wobbliness, only one of you ends up on your ass.

Notes: The first chapter of And Four Papyri in a Pear Tree, my four-part holiday series focusing on festive-themed dates with Rus, Edge, Stretch, and Papyrus.

Tags: Reader/swapfell Papyrus, ice skating, fluff, established relationship.

Read it on AO3 or read it below the cut!

“lookin’ a little wobbly there, baby doll,” Rus teases, looking unfairly steady on his skates. Behind him, a vast expanse of glistening ice stretches out under the open sky, reflecting the soft glow of twinkling lights that adorn the perimeter of the skating rink. The air is crisp, carrying the faint scent of freshly fallen snow and the rhythmic sound of blades gliding over the smooth surface.

Your own skates slide perilously against the ice, your legs clenched tight to stop your knees from slipping out from underneath you.

“Nuh-uh,” you say, willing your fingers to loosen their grip on the barrier. “I’ve just got knives attached to my feet, what’s scary about that?  It’s not like ice is slippery or anything.”

Rus chuckles. “c’mon, don’t’cha trust me? if you’re that scared, it’s not too late for me to get you a penguin.”

As if summoned by the cruel forces of comedic timing, a small child breezes past the two of you pushing said skating aid. They seem entirely at ease and as you watch, they remove their hands from the penguin with an elated whoop.

“Look, no hands!” they call out, presumably to a parent.

Your resolve, which has previously been a gelatinous mass quivering at the pit of your belly, hardens. Like hell you’re being shown up by a kid. “Nope,” you say to Rus, “I’m good.”

You aren’t, though. You’re nervous. You probably shouldn’t have watched that video about the top ten career-ending ice hockey accidents last night. Ah, hindsight. At least you’re wearing a thick scarf; hopefully that’ll protect your neck from any errant skating blades.

“if you’re sure,” he says. In contrast to the pitiful display you’re putting on, Rus looks completely at home on the ice. More graceful than he is on solid ground, even, though that’s not necessarily that high of a bar. There’s a natural ease to him like this, a confidence that you’ve only caught snatches of before.

“i’m ready whenever you are,” he says. His thick woollen sweater reads FESTIVE GUY and is a particularly fetching shade of eggplant.  His cheeks are faintly lilac from the cold that nips through the air, his long, delicate hands encased in cosy mittens.

Those mittened hands are held out to you now. Anxiety flickers in your chest but then you look at him again, at how steady he is, how the long lines of his body are looser and more relaxed than you’ve ever seen them outside of the safety of privacy, and that gives you all the bravery you need.

You take his hands, the chill of the rink being chased away through your gloves. Your fingers curl between his phalanges in a grip that would surely be bruising if he had flesh. As you step further onto the ice, you wobble perilously, struggling to find your balance. Your ankles feel heavy and clumsy, your feet dead weight. How do people make this look so easy? You’ve never felt so unwieldy in your life.

“you’re okay,” he says, holding you steady. “that’s perfect.”

The standards for perfect must be low.

You’re too busy concentrating on not falling on your ass – no, hands and knees, the video you watched in preparation for this said that letting your arms absorb the impact is the safest way to fall – so you can’t articulate that thought into an appropriately clever remark, so you just settle on responding with a dubious look.

His grip tightens reassuringly – you feel like he’s holding all of your weight at this point - and he begins guiding you across the smooth surface. He’s making it look so easy, skating backwards with practiced, smooth motions. You feel like a newborn giraffe in comparison, if someone was to sneak into the zoo, strap knife-blades to its hooves, and set it out onto the ice.

"first lesson: find your centre of gravity," he says, his voice low and encouraging. "keep your knees slightly bent, and let the skates do the work."

“What does that even mean?” you say, a little panicked, but you quickly mimic his stance. It’s awkward at first – you’re ready to tip face-first into him at any moment, but with enough gradual, tiny adjustments, you start to feel a little steadier. The tempo of the music playing over the rink's speakers helps you keep your movements rhythmic, and you find yourself feeling more and more confident.

“there you go,” he says. Despite yourself, warmth floods your chest at the praise.

“I feel like you’re doing all the work, not me or the skates,” you say. “How the hell are you so good at this? I’ve seen you trip over your own bone constructs.”

He lets go of one of your hands to press a wounded hand to his chest and you flail in its absence, letting out a startled eep.

“hey, i am beauty and i am grace. ’specially compared to you right now.”

He snatches your hand back before you can really panic, but as you recover, you realise that you probably weren’t in any danger of falling anyway. One, you trust that Rus would catch you and two, you’re feeling a little steadier on your skates now. Maybe you’re getting the hang of this! The Zamboni isn’t going to run you over after all.

“Aw, you don’t think I’m pretty?” You affect an exaggerated pout.

He laughs, but his cheeks tinge purple. “’course i think you’re pretty. you’re my cute little baby squirrel, slippin’ around on the ice. like in ice age.”

“… thank you?”

“you’re welcome, scrat.”

Eh. You can live with that. Dude has tenacity you can appreciate.

Besides, all this teasing is distracting you from looking down at your own feet and throwing yourself off-balance. Rus continues to glide you around the rink and the sounds of the other skaters seem to fall away, leaving just the two of you and the sounds of your skates sliding against the ice. You gently lap around, each pass making you feel more and more comfortable.

“Still, there’s got to be a reason you’re so good at this,” you press. “There’s not some secret winter Olympics Underground I don’t know about, right?”

He snorts. “hah. nah, nothing like that. not much time for organised sports when everyone’s tryin’ to avoid being dusted. i just did a lot of skating on my own, back when i was in stripes,” he says, and though the tone is off handed, you get the sense that this is far more significant than his voice is letting on. “spent a lot of hours out on the ice. with enough practice, angel eyes, anyone’d pick it up. even you.”

He lets go of your hand again, this time to boop your nose. When he takes it again, his grip is far looser, and you find that you’re staying upright of your own volition. Part of you is tempted to let go completely and see what you can do on your own now that you’ve got the basics down, but fuck, the enjoyment you’re getting from holding his hand is overriding your competitive spirit.

He’s also still towing you around and you have no idea how to actually make yourself go, but little details.

“There’s not much ice or snow from where I’m from, so I never learnt,” you say. “We’d get this gross, dirty sleet sometimes in the winter, but not much else. I used to be so jealous of kids who got to have white Christmases. Did Black teach you to do this?”

Fondness colours his features. “yeah, he did. he was good like that. not many of the other kids liked to go out onto the ice, so i think he thought that if i stayed out there, they wouldn’t pick on me. when i got older, it was a good way to get away from everything for a while.”

You imagine a younger Black taking an even younger Rus by the hands and leading him out onto the ice, guiding him in the way he’s guiding you now. You wonder what being picked on as a kid looked like in their universe, that cruel, brutal place. You doubt that it amounted to simple teasing.

Your chest aches at the thought, but you quash it down. Today is a day for good things; you’re not going to dwell on a past you have no way of changing.

“You must’ve learnt some pretty cool tricks, then,” you say, pushing levity into your tone.

The words chase away the hint of melancholy that had been lurking on his skull. He grins at you, lazy and languid and confident, and says, “oh, sugar plum, you have no idea.”

The two of you both glide to a stop on the side of the rink. You let go of his hands and grasp back onto the barrier. You feel safe now to stay standing without his assistance.

“Go on, then,” you say, angling your chin towards the ice. “Impress me.”

He takes the ice, his movements fluid and confident. The chilly air echoes with the scrape of blades against the smooth surface, and he shoots you a mischievous grin. With each stride, he gains momentum, twirling effortlessly with a grace that makes you dizzy. Your breath catches as he executes a flawless spin, his body a whirl of controlled motion. The ice seems to respond to his every command, and he carves intricate patterns with finesse.

With a final, daring leap, he lands with a flourish, a triumphant smile lighting up his face. The ice seems to shimmer in approval of his performance.

As he skates back to your side, there's a glint of anticipation in his eyes, silently asking if he managed to impress.

And in that moment, under the twinkling lights of the ice rink, you can't help but feel the warmth of his efforts.

Fuck, you’re getting mushy. You can’t find it in you to be upset about that, though.

“well?” he says.

Your applause is muffled by your gloves, but the intent is the same. “That was amazing! Do you reckon I could learn to go that fast today? Oh, or even backwards? Both at the same time seems a little ambitious.”

“maybe just a little,” he says, cheeks flushed from your praise. “we can work on it, though. just getting you to go under your own power today is a good goal. that you’re standin’ with no support now is impressive on its own.”

You look down at yourself and then at your arms and huh, would you look at that. Granted, you’re not moving yet, but you’re getting there!

You cast your eyes back out onto the ring to see the small child from earlier gliding around the ice, skating aid now discarded. You point a gloved finger towards them.

“Do you think I could at least go faster than that kid today?” you say.

Rus looks amused but doesn’t question your choice of a benchmark. “maybe, but don’t stress if you can’t. you’re doing really good for your first time on the ice,” he says. “i don’t want you fallin’ and cracking your head open because you bite off more than you can chew. don’t worry, we can come back for more practice. if you want. it’s okay if you, don’t, though, i -.”

“We are definitely coming back,” you say. You’re determined to at least learn one trick before the holidays are over. “You’re stuck with me now, coach.”

“does that mean you’ll get one of those leotards?”

“If you wear one too, sure,” you agree. “Maybe we can get matching ones.”

He takes your hands again and starts pulling you around the ice, slow and deliberate. You do your best to match his movements. The two of you make another slow lap and though you’re too focussed to be chatty, the silence doesn’t feel awkward. He gives you the occasional helpful, if teasing, pointer and your confidence continues to grow.

“well, how’s your first time on the ice shapin’ up so far?” he asks you after another lap. “everything you were hoping for?” The words are joking, but you can see his sincerity.

Your chest feels all warm and soft and suddenly, you don’t feel the chill of the ice at all. You steel yourself and use your handhold to pull yourself closer to him, slowing your pace, and then let go of his hands altogether, bringing one now free hand to cup the side of his skull. Your gloved fingers splay across his zygomatic arch.

He nuzzles into your palm, sockets drooping.

“Good,” you say. Your voice is soft. “Really, really good.”

“i – heh.” He ducks his head, but he can’t hide the colour that flushes his skull.

In an attempt to recover gracefully, he takes a misstep, his skates catching an edge. Before you both know it, he's tripping over his own feet, arms flailing in an attempt to regain balance.

To no avail. He crashes down into the ice, bony ass first. You narrowly avoid getting taken down with him.

“Oh my god,” you say, unable to stifle the laughter that bubbles up your throat. “Are you okay?”

Rus attempts to clamber to his feet, trying – and failing – to get his legs back underneath him. With each slip back onto the ice, the vivid mauve dusting his cheeks deepens further.

Eventually, he rights himself, skull blazing purple. “’m fine. that was exactly what i was going for. grand finale. ta-da.” The words are said with accompanying jazz-hands.

Still laughing, you pluck one of his hands from the air and pull yourself towards him.

“Real smooth,” you say. “Come on, you charmer. I want to have another go.”

[coquettedragoon]

Rotating an aussie public school au in my mind... Xio misplaces her bucket hat and has to sit in the shade all recess. Ayane plays cruel pranks on the guy inside the harold the giraffe costume (also a giraffe). Etc

if the lilac was outdoor id absolutely write in the no hat no play laws. for the soldiers

[nisafari]

Explore Etosha National Park Zambia's Top Safari Destination zambia #wil...

Discover and Explore Etosha National Park: A Wildlife Haven in Zambia Etosha National Park, located in Zambia, is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Spanning over a vast area, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. From majestic elephants and graceful giraffes to elusive leopards and rare bird species, Etosha National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. This article takes you on a virtual journey through the park, highlighting its key attractions, activities, and conservation efforts. Visit https://nisafari.com for travel guides and more safaris destinations

 Etosha National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of animal and plant species. The park is renowned for its large population of elephants, which can often be seen roaming freely in their natural habitat. Visitors can also spot other iconic African animals such as lions, zebras, giraffes, and rhinos. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 340 bird species recorded, including the majestic African fish eagle and the colorful lilac-breasted roller. Exploring the park's diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense woodlands, provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and harmony of nature.

 Etosha National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to immerse themselves in the wilderness. Game drives are a popular way to explore the park and get up close to the wildlife. Experienced guides lead visitors on thrilling safaris, sharing their knowledge about the park's inhabitants and their behaviors. The park also has several waterholes, where visitors can observe animals gathering to quench their thirst, providing excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, guided walking safaris allow visitors to explore the park on foot, accompanied by armed rangers who ensure safety while providing insights into the park's flora and fauna. 

Etosha National Park is not only a haven for wildlife but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. The park is committed to preserving its unique ecosystem and protecting endangered species. Conservation initiatives include anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and community engagement programs. Visitors to the park can learn about these conservation efforts through educational programs and interactive exhibits. By visiting Etosha National Park, travelers contribute to the sustainable development of the region and support the ongoing conservation efforts. 

Whether you are a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, Etosha National Park offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world. 

[irkimatsu]

azure seafoam lilac (sounds like a very rare flower)

I shall gently feed you printed out pages of fic as if I am feeding leaves to a giraffe

no dying please, if you must die for someone reserve that for Waver and Nemo

Dinosaurs! I'll bring one of those bags of assorted plastic dinosaurs! Everyone can have one! As long as I can have one of the long necked ones

[imaginedreamwrite]

For CC WD boys (pre courting/first stages of courting Reader) are on a hunt to find something perfect for Reader. Both boys could have an opinion about what is the "gift".

Christmas countdown day 21 — Go Christmas present shopping for your partner/spouse

Steve felt momentarily irritated by Bucky’s insistence on returning the teacup set to the shelf rather than setting it into the cart like Steve wanted. Bucky had claimed to know exactly what their omega bean wanted or needed for Christmas, while Steve had his own ideas on what you needed.

Neither alpha was willing to concede to the other, and despite being lifelong best friends and lovers, they weren’t seeing eye to eye on the manner.

Steve wanted to get you a pastel lilac ceramic teaser because he knew that you liked to drink chai or chamomile tea while you studied. He knew you had gotten your teasers second hand and while he knew there was nothing wrong with second hand sets, Steve wanted to spoil you.

Bucky, in the same kind of thought process, wanted to forgo the tea-set and instead get you more nesting blankets and stuffed animals to decorate your bed. Bucky stood by his idea and the fact he swore by, that the you wanted a stuffed moose or giraffe.

“She needs this-“ “Steve you’re wrong-“

The two alphas huffed and argued back and forth, both insistent that they knew what you needed or wanted more. They were standing face to face and speaking over one another, only stopping when someone behind them cleared their throat.

“Your argument is disrupting other customers.” A beta who worked here and cut them both off before they handed Steve and Bucky a large and thick cardboard box that was adorned with faux gingham design.

“And this is a compromise, so maybe you could stop fighting.” The retail worker had hummed, watching the two alphas study the box. “Its made for omegas and betas, specifically.”

“A tea set with a matching stuffed animal?” Bucky raised an eyebrow, watching the beta expectantly.

“The stuffed animal matches the design on the tea cup, and the tea cup is handcrafted porcelain. Plus the stuff animal is infused with lavender, promotes relaxation-“

“Compromise?” Steve tilted his head, eyeing Bucky carefully. “Best of both worlds.”

“Good,” Bucky nodded his head, “but I’m still getting her that stuffed animal.”

“As long as you let me get this set.” They set their presents down at the same time, taking up room in the cart for each others choices.

“Let me know if you need anything else.” The worker had stepped away, muttering under their breath while Steve stepped closer to Bucky.

“Omega bean also said something about an electric blanket-“

“Way ahead of you, Stevie. I found the perfect one.”

[ultfan]

aesthetic.

what are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! remember to REPOST! feel free to add to the list!

[ COLOURS ]  ~  burgundy. red. crimson. scarlet. maroon. mahogany. copper. amber. chocolate. brown. tawny. tan. bronze. brass. orange. gold. saffron. yellow. chartreuse. spring green. lime. mint. green. olive. forest. turquoise. teal. cerulean. blue. navy. cobalt. periwinkle. indigo. pewter. plum. purple. magenta. fuchsia. lilac. lavender. pink. coral. peach. ivory. cream. white. silver. grey. smoke. charcoal. ebony. black. pastels. vibrant. matte. metallic. muted. dark. light.

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes. eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collar bones. arms. elbows. wrists.  hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins.  guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ WEAPONS ]  ~  bites. fists. sword. dagger. spear. arrow. bow. crossbow. hammer.  shield. poison. guns. axes. throwing axes. whips. knives. throwing knives. pepper sprays. tasers.  machine guns. slingshots. katanas. maces. staffs. wands. powers. magical items. magic. rocks. mud balls. bombs. missiles. boomerangs. lethal pets. lasers.

[ MATERIALS ]  ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite.  moonstone.  petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils. skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain.  bone. shells. coral.

[ NATURE ]  ~ grass. leaves. trees. bark. flowers. roses. daisies. forget me nots. tulips. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. roots. ocean. pond. river. stream. waterfall. creek. meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rain forest. tropical. jungle. marsh. moors. swamp.  plains. hills. highlands. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space.  clouds. mountains. fire. lava. ice. frost. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun.  heat. cold. steam. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise.  sunset. dewdrops. shadow. tornado. hurricane. water spout. thunder. hail. twisters. humidity. dryness.

[ ANIMALS ]  ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer.  hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. ants.  moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms. snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ]  ~  pepper. salt. sugar. honey. syrup. caramel. candy. bubblegum.  mints.  candy canes. gumdrops. lollipops. chocolate. vanilla. cinnamon. ice cream. cake. cookies. brownies. biscuits. pie. tarts. lemonade. soda. champagne. wine. brandy. rum. whiskey. vodka. tequila. sake. beer. soju. gin. crema de cacao. cocoa. latte. coffee. tea.  spices. herbs. fruit. apples. oranges. lemons. cherries. strawberries. blueberries. raspberries. cranberries. watermelons. cantaloupes. bananas. coconuts. grapes. kiwi. pomegranates. tomatoes. vegetables. potatoes. cucumbers. carrots. turnips. onions. leeks.  celery. broccoli. cabbages. lettuces. roots. nuts. white meat. red meat. raw meat. veal. pork. chicken. beef. venison. fish. lobster. oysters. pizza. ambrosia. pasta. sandwiches. soup.

[ HOBBIES ]  ~  music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer.  violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk.  classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art.  sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. graffiti. printing. inking. collecting. fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey.  reading. writing. cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre. libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ]  ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint.  make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hoes. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sun dresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. nose rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings. necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cuff links. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

[ MISC ]  ~ balloons. bubbles. candles. battle. war. diplomacy. peace. money. power.  clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. diary. fairy lights. madness. sanity. sadness. happiness. optimism. pessimism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies.  loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. sex. hugs. duality. sin. lust. greed. wrath. envy. sloth. gluttony. pride. virtue. chivalry. honour. piety. charity. diligence. chastity. gentleness. aggression. romance. hatred. grief. pity. success. bitterness. sorrow. joy. fear. anger. good. evil. relativity. vampirism. sapphism. life. birth. time. death. illusion. silence.

[loyalhorror]

five good things!

on my walk i was looking at some flowers spread all across the grass and then in amongst them i found some DIFFERENT flowers that were these tiny little lilac-blue ones just scattered around in a few patches...

tomodachi life! and all my other ds/3ds games tbh. theres so much i didnt play as a kid and its exciting to do it now!

cooked gyoza in the frying pan today and it turned out really nice. i usually just boil it but frying it made it so crispy and GOOD

magnus is such a sweet little creature... also i saw another tabby cat in a window today it was very exciting

i THINK we might have a new system kid but im not sure! really vibes with yellow + giraffes, that's all i know. it might be one of the others though so who knows tbh. funny though because i think this time last year we split droplet, who likes blue + elephants...

[spacefinch]

We never had a MSB episode about the African savannah or a Safari there… how would that go?

I'm not sure. I think it would start with one of the kids (probably D.A. or Tim) being curious about the animals there. ("I've only ever seen elephants and lions at the zoo. Wouldn't it be something to see them in the wild?")

Cue field trip.

Some of the animals seen:

African elephant

Lion

Giraffe

Aardvark

Hyena

Aardwolf

Bat-eared Fox

Lilac-breasted Roller

Secretary Bird

Nile Crocodile

Hippo

Cheetah

Thomson's Gazelle

Spotted Eagle-Owl

African Wild Dog

African Wild Cat

Honeyguide

Honey Badger

[charlesandmartine]

Monday 29th April 2024

The knock came at 5am this morning, again. We had to hurry because the animals were waiting! Clearly. We were once more loaded into the back of a Toyota and off we went into the depths of the Hwange National Park. Just remember leopard I said to our ranger. Need to see one, or two. We clattered off in a vehicle that sounded like it desperately needed a service. We had had a good night sleep, up until 5am that is. The train stopped at 3am so giving us a motion free sleep. Although the cabin size is more than adequate, we feel that until now we have been living out of a suitcase, now we feel we are living in a suitcase!

The park was good and we managed to see three lionesses and three cubs. Of course there were the accompanying entourage of zebras, elephants, giraffes, impala, water buck, kudu and baboons. Gorgeous birds too; the banana bird, lilac crested roller and pepple roller.

Right in the middle of nowhere was a small well managed campsite with toilets, kitchen and shower cubicle. It was looked after by one man and a broom who was stationed there on his own for a month. A rudimentary fence surrounded the site but the gate left little to be admired. Knowing what's out there and how many sharp teeth are involved, I'd want a sturdier fence and gate than what's on offer.

Returning to the rail track, there was a welcome sausage and coffee as well as champagne which kind of made up for there being no leopard.

Back on the train it was pretty much time for luncheon. Bringing out the wine needs little excuse and today proved no exception. Our wine waiter even forced a dessert wine down us.

Retiring to our cabin, we were able to sit and idly watch the African countryside drift by. The twin powerful DD class 2200hp locos steadily pulling or 20 coach train onwards to Bulawayo. The vegetation is quite green and lush at the moment, with bush and trees unrecognisable. Occasionally wildlife can be seen; wart hogs, baboons, impala. Odd bits of railway equipment discarded from a bygone era, little shacks of unknown use by the narrow gauge track, occasional rusting railway trucks. We are still in Zimbabwe and we wonder when the trackside signals last worked? There is no red or green light showing on these rusted poles. Rovos locomotives can only be used up to the South African border whereupon they need to be swapped out for South African units and driven by South African railway staff but that won't happen until tomorrow.

Rovos Rail was the dream of Rohan Vos in 1986. His initial intent was to buy four carriages to restore and hitch them onto a South African Railways train as a family caravan. His first service was a locomotive and seven carriage train to the Eastern Transvaal and was launched on 29th April 1989. Rovos Rail is now considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world.

As the train rumbled on, we passed through isolated townships and villages, and as we did so small crowds of children would run squealing from crossings, running along the track behind the train. We simply could not guess what sort of lives they might lead. In some cases they were hoping for money or gifts. Some passengers had thrown sweets and we heard that the train had given leftovers although none of this was endorsed by the company.

Springbok for dinner. Lovely.

ps It's a Giraffe journey of giraffes when they are on the move but tower of giraffes when stationary.