#rookery photos

[rooklinqs]

A creature, if you even care...

[clarabellerphotography]

Cattle Egret rookery

Location: Hawaii

[equatorjournal]

Sea lions, San Nicolas Island, 1972. Photo by Stephen Leatherwood. "When the white sands and rocky outcroppings of their crowded rookeries on San Nicolas Island, seventy miles southwest of Los Angeles, get too hot, sea lions, like other southern California natives, head for the surf to cool down. They swim out in groups of fifteen to twenty and more, then ride the waves back toward shore. Before a wave breaks, they often throw themselves up out of the curl, make a half gainer, and swim out to catch another, bodysurfing for an hour or more at a time. These are mostly young pups, though some older males and females take time to ride a few waves on their way in from feeding grounds. Most adult males inhabit the island only in the early spring when they come to breed. The population on San Nicolas is then some 16,000 sea lions. Pups are born from late May to July. The adult males migrate in summer to coastal feeding grounds as far north as British Columbia. From San Nicolas, the females swim sixty to eighty miles offshore to feed on anchovy, whiting, and squid, leaving young pups to chase fish among the kelp beds and cavort in the surf." -B.D.S. From "Surf's Up/Natural History". https://www.instagram.com/p/CofiPsotJwM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[themalhambird]

I've started my first rewatch of bodies because I have a fortnight's worth of laundry to fold and I don't wanna, so here are some observations on Episode One:

Observations about Episode One. 

-Oh crap, the timey-wimey shit happens in the daytime, doesn’t it, I might have to amend my fics a bit :p

-Hillinghead seems to divide opinion between the constables. PC Byrne seems to look up to him, chatting about growing up in Whitechapel. Officer Webb (who goes on to smack Henry around) has a very displeased “Inspector,” when Hillinghead shows up- given what happens about five minutes later, I suspect Hillinghead’s got a reputation  amongst some of the force for being both uptight  and a soft touch, seeing as how he not only won’t let Webb beat up the poncy journalist, but also sends him home and docks a day pay. 

-On a similar vein, though, the male sex workers aren’t running for cover when the police are showing up. One of them is even eyeing him up. And Ashe hands over those photographs remarkably quickly, all things considered– he could easily have said he burnt them, rather than binned them, and going for a snog is a really bold move. Considering this is clearly all around Hillinghead’s beat, I suspect that: 1) Hillinghead has previously instructed the men not to waste time harassing sex workers in the rookeries, 2) The local queers probably clocked Hillinghead *ages* ago.

-Hasan’s relationship with her dad is quietly awesome. He clearly has concerns about her work, but there’s no big blow up about missing his birthday party, only joy to see her. Similarly, he slips so seamlessly into taking over cake making with Jawad  when Hasan gets a work-related call. I <3 Ishmael 

-Whiteman’s instinct’s are all detective. The sensible thing to do is just get the body in the boot and drive, but Whiteman takes his time- he’s trying to figure out what the hell the deal is . And (once his lighter’s retrieved) he seems pleased about being able to open the boot and show Calloway, and thereby get to investigate around a bit.

-speaking of Calloway. Consummate Dad Vibes. I love him. 

-Ashe refers to the Police Commissioner's (married) son as they- “They are my alibi” and frankly I am here for non-binary Victorian person. But I also think that being the Police Commissioner's son is part of the answer to Hillinghead’s “Why risk a photo” question. When anyone who is  likely to go after you for it works for your dad, on whom the whole situation would reflect badly,  it becomes a little less risky to do the thing. It’s a level of protection that neither Hillinghead, nor Ashe independent of any activities with the commissioner’s son, are afforded.   

-knowing who already knows what the hell is going on makes this the same level of entertaining, but in a very different way. Also, the “you’re dead already, and that’s all the warning I dare give” hits hard… I think, perhaps, until that point, the medical examiner had hoped that this was some other random body in Longharvest Lane, and that he wasn’t on the countdown to killing his co-worker/friend

-Maplewood thanking the AI in the car for asking if she’s okay. That’s adorable and I love her. 

-The Composer is drawing on Murray Gold’s doctor who stuff so heavily. This is good because I like Murray Gold but also it’s just funny

[valiantstarlights]

[Six Sentence Sunday/WIP Wednesday]

Tagged by: @bazzybelle 💅

I don't know what the rules are, except maybe to post on either a Wednesday or a Sunday, and it has to have at least 6 sentences? 👀 (please correct me if I'm wrong 😂)

Anyway, here are some sentences from the Dreamling Tiny!Dream AU ✨️ I wrote instead of sleeping, after someone on discord shared a photo of the BDSM Barbie kit.

Tagging: @lostelfwriting , @karalynlovescake , @janimoon , and @mallory-x . Any one of you could have stopped me, but you didn't! 😭 And I know I said it had 1.6k words, but that was before. It has gotten even longer now. 😂

"Hob."

"Just a minute, darling," Hob says distractedly. He's currently uploading his students' grades, and it's a task that he has difficulty with (due to the university's crap online grading system), so he is justified in ignoring Dream for just one measly minute.

A truly heart-wrenching sigh sounds from behind him, and Hob, despite himself, turns to look.

Dream's floating doll castle, which had originally been the dollhouse of a New Inn employee's child that they have recently outgrown, is in its usual place in the corner of his study. The black banners are still flying in an unseen wind, the highest tower is still where the rookery is, and Hob can't really tell right now if Dream has changed anything about the exterior, except--

Oh.

That's new.

Usually, the interior of the doll house ("Doll castle," Dream had insisted), shows only a single room. The room where Dream currently is. Hob doesn't quite know how it works, if it rotates, or if it has a bigger-on-the-inside technology like the TARDIS. (Hob doesn't say that to Dream, though, because he has enough daddy issues.)

Well, the room where Dream is at right now is a room Hob has never seen before.

Oh, he's seen the library, the gardens, and even the swimming pool, but this is the first time he's seeing the sex dungeon.

[forthepleasureofmylife]

THE ROOKERY Bushwick N.Y.C.

Photo: Dieter Krehbiel

[aimer-imaginer-penser]

The Rookery. Burnham and Root. Completed in 1888. Frank Lloyd Wright redesigned the skylit lobby in 1905. Photo by Stuart Grais

[bucknastysbabe]

Back to the Old House:Ch.3

Rating: Explicit

Word count: 5,091

Tags: Oral (f!receiving), V!sex, Aegon gets switchy then reverts to subby mode, Drug/alcohol use, Family Fist Fights, The gang gets High As Balls, Slice of lifey this chapter, Dorne said defund the Royals, Viserys is an idiot, Outdoors sex

A/N: This is fun to write I get way too invested in everyone. Tbh I stumped myself with the last scene so I cut it off I’m in finals season I don’t have the brain power yeet. Anyways enjoy mwah

Previous Chapter

Chapter 3: Barbarism Begins at Home

You and Aegon lounged about, him napping while you scrolled on your phone. You giggled at his face smushed against the pillow, sneaking a photo. Aliandra Martell had texted you about the trip and a curious conversation ensued. You told her about the fights, the confusing ass castle, and your step forward into a relationship with Aegon.

The ‘Princess’ of Dorne replied, “As long as he knows whose in charge lmfao tell Uncle Daddy Daemon I said hello ;).”

You snorted in amusement, Aegon mumbling something beside you. You turned to look at him stretch and scrunch his nose. Eyes still closed he groaned, “My ass hurts.” You grinned helplessly and retorted, “I wonder why your grace?” He tugged at your hair playfully and pulled you into his embrace. Aegon nipped at your earlobe and rasped, “Maybe because I have a crazy Dornishwoman who likes to ride.”

“Maybe so.”

A loud ringtone went off, some sort of yelling noise. Aegon reached around for his phone, checking it over your shoulder. You watched him unlock the phone to a text from Daeron. Your mouth split into a grin again.

“Rookery in 15 ladies and gents,” read the message.

Aegon laughed, “Ah finally.”

The phone buzzed again, this time from Jace. He wrote, “FOR THE LOVE OF THE FATHER NO ONE LET AEMOND KNOW!!!!” The pair of you giggled at the eldest Velaryon. The times you’d seen Aemond at a King’s Landing party was dreadful. He was straight edge and usually glared at everyone from a shadowy corner. R’hllor bless him.

You wiggled out of Aegon’s arms and exited the bed. He whistled at your naked body, joking about round two. You rifled through a drawer to find some warm clothes. Looking over a shoulder you chided, “Get up!” The Prince groaned and rolled out slowly, taking his sweet ass time.

You were already dressed in a sweatshirt and leggings while he was pulling on underwear, wincing at the movement. Aegon grumbled, “I’m going to have to bring a damn pillow out there.” He eased into his own sweats and an old KLU pullover.

“C’mon Aegon they’re gonna be done by the time you’re ready.”

“Lemme put on my shoes! Damn!,” he groused.

You were out the door, Aegon stumbling along behind. You spread your arms and laughed, “Lead the way your grace.” The blonde shook his head and stalked forward, instinctively grabbing onto your hand. He spoke, “The rookery is about to fall into the sea but no one ever goes out there. I used to hide up there when I was younger.”

“Hide from what?”

“My family, of course,” he sneered.

Rolling your eyes Aegon led you down weaving stone. You ended up at ancient stone stairs, Aegon’s hand at the small of your back. You quipped, “I can easily see you busting your ass down these things.”

“Oh I most definitely did,” he cackled.

At the top of the stairs was an arch with a gnarled door. Aegon rapped on it in a strange pattern. Daeron’s smiling face appeared on the other side, beckoning you two in. Jace and Baela sat by a metal fire pit. The wind swept through the old rookery, sending a chill down your spine.

Jace exclaimed, “There’s my favorite screamers!” He nursed a small bottle of cinnamon whiskey.

You and Aegon shared a dubious look. He questioned, “Screamers?” Baela snickered, elbowing her cousin. Daeron piped in, “What? Do tell!”

Jace held back laughter before breaking, “Baela and I heard you two going at it down the hall. Quite the spectacle, really!”

Aegon’s face flushed a deep red and he sputtered out a weak defense. You patted him on the cheek and cooed, “Awe poor baby.” He glared at you and shuffled over to sit down. All eyes were on the Prince as he grunted and ungracefully perched on the floor. Daeron’s eyes lit up and he shouted, “AEGON I KNEW YOU WERE FREAKY BUT DAM-“

You slapped a hand over his mouth and hissed, “Hush!” He mumbled an apology, laughing under his breath. Aegon crossed his arms, looking like a wet cat. Baela spoke, “Ass annihilation aside, let’s get it going Daeron the druggie.”

The youngest Targaryen held up his hands and sat down. He whipped out a rolling board and pulled the blunt wrappers out. He handed the board to Aegon and ordered, “I break you roll,” he turned to the rest of the group, “My dear brother here taught me the art of blunt rolling.” Jace bowed with his hands in prayer.

Baela joined in and chanted, “Oh bless you holy blunt master Aegon, second of his name.”

Aegon cursed at the two, now focused on the task at hand. You looked around at the stone room, awing at the height, envisioning it filled with ravens from days of old. Jace turned on some music, that weird slowed trap stuff out of Gulltown.

You stared at the fire while everyone sat in companionable silence. You sent a quick thanks to R’hllor for turning things around. Daeron interrupted the silence with a brazen question.

“So, Lady Uller, is it true you’re a fire worshipper?”

Aegon growled through his teeth at his brother. You scoffed, “Yes Daeron I get naked and dance in fire. You idiot— I follow the religion of the Lord of Light. The fires are how we commune with him. The fire is life and protection. Targaryens of all people should know that.” Daeron shrugged and hummed in understanding. Aegon shot daggers at his brother and focused back on the blunt.

Baela asked, “He fends off the Great Other right?”

You nodded but whispered, “It’s not custom to speak of the other. The night is dark and full of terrors when it comes to that one.”

Jacaerys shuddered, brown eyes wide. He managed, “I don’t know what freaks me out more— that or the Old Gods Cregan follows.” You mused, “I always thought the statues of the Stranger and Crone were creepy. Or the Iron Islands and the Drowned God stuff.”

Baela asked, “Have you heard about the Black Goat in Qohor? They still have the old altar in a museum.”

“Quit it with the weird shit I don’t want to trip out,” Aegon interrupted. He handed you the weed and a lighter, offering with a smarmy ‘m’lady’. You smirked and lit up the blunt, taking a deep inhale. You counted down on your fingers, Daeron chanting to hold it. With a shaky exhale you passed it on to Baela. Then the coughing hit.

You weren’t going to lie to yourself. You were not a dope extraordinaire. A dab pen was more palatable. You doubled over hacking, Aegon rubbing your back with a soft smile. You wheezed, “Holy fuck that’s good shit.” The buzz was already taking affect— your eyes feeling dry and heavy, a giddy feeling taking over.

You leaned back onto Aegon, laying your head in his lap. You always got in your thoughts when smoking. You stared up at the ceiling and the old chains holding the bars where ravens would have perched. Jace coughing and slapping the stone floor made you giggle. Your boyfriend idly played with your hair.

Daeron’s dumbass challenged Aegon to go hit for hit when he got the weed. The elder brother snorted, “When you’re throwing up don’t blame me.” You watched Aegon’s lips as exhaled; mesmerized by the smoke.

“Like a dragon,” you giggled.

Jace added, “A debaucherous one at that.”

Aegon handed you the blunt. He teased, “Think you can handle another?” You hit it again, not as hard as the first time. Off to Baela the Pentoshi kush went. Daeron was rolling up another for the contest. Aegon’s purple eyes grew glassy and he lazily grinned down. You grabbed his palm and kissed it gently.

Jace cackled suddenly, making everyone stare in amusement. He elaborated, “I just had the best mental image.”

Baela raised a brow, ever the calm one. She prodded Jace, “Go on then.” The brown haired Velaryon giggled, “I have a nightmare blunt rotation,” he paused to gather himself, “Otto, Alicent, Aemond, Luke, and oh fuck it- Larys Strong.” Aegon guffawed in that manic way of his, shoving Daeron excitedly.

You added, “Aemond would think the cops were coming!”

Baela commented, “I think Otto needs it. Luke will freak the fuck out again and start crying.”

Jace was about pissing his pants, caught up in his idea. Aegon looked down and asked, “Have you heard of Lord Larys?” You shook your head. Daeron butted in, “He’s a creep- you’re not missing much.” Aegon nodded along and said, “One time we saw feet pics on his phone. I almost screamed.” Jace squawked with laughter. He usually was so stoic, it was amusing to see him let loose.

Daeron held up the second blunt, the other one down to a roach. He puffed, “Pearl!” Aegon snarked, “I could’ve done that in half the time.” The younger brother glared and lit up petulantly. Baela shoved Jace away from her side in the meantime. She hit her vape and leaned toward the fire.

You watched as the smoke off began. It ended with Daeron coughing and admitting defeat. Aegon giggled in glee, pointing at him. He yelled, “Fucking pussy! I win!” You took a small puff and flicked the end of the blunt into the fire while Aegon berated the half-dead Daeron. Jace joined in, throwing nonsensical insults.

Baela shook her head and muttered, “I’ll have to stay up here with dumbass for awhile.”

Aegon stretched and stated, “Have fun with him and Dare. I think we’ll head back to the room.” Daeron stared with heavy eyes, slowly rolling out a middle finger. You bit back a laugh at the way-too-high Targaryen. Aegon helped you up, gasping, “Oh shit.”

“What is it?”

“I’m fried.”

He laughed loudly and skipped down the stairs, you chuckling at the odd sight. Aegon turned round to face you, walking backwards. He sang, “The Dornishman's wife was as fair as the sun, and her kisses were warmer than spring!” You rolled your eyes, heart fluttering at his eager face. You felt very light and unburdened.

Aegon slung an arm over your shoulders and continued, “But the Dornishman's blade was made of black steel, and its kiss was a terrible thing.”

Unable to help yourself you joined in, swaying along with the prince.

“The Dornishman's wife would sing as she bathed, in a voice that was sweet as a peach.”

Aegon serenaded back in a stupid voice, “Buuuuut the Dornishman's blade had a song of its own, and a bite sharp and cold as a leech!”

You teased, “I don’t think any Dornishman will stab you. Maybe papa.”

Rounding a bend Aegon hummed the next part, stumbling over the words. He breathed, “Wait wait I know the last part, hold up.” Taking a deep breath he belted out the last part of the old ballad. You blushed in half-embarrassment.

“Brothers, oh brothers, my days here are done,
the Dornishman's taken my life, but what does it matter, for all men must die, and I've tasted the Dornishman's wife!"

Aegon bowed and winked at you. You clapped for the idiot, shaking your head. He laughed, “Gods I’m good.” A voice echoed from ahead, “You sound like a horny cat.” The pair of you jumped in surprise as Daemon passed by. Aegon giggled, “Crazy ass.”

Once inside your chambers you immediately climbed onto the bed, sighing out, “R’hllor’s fires this is comfy.” Aegon flopped next to you, pulling out his phone. You peered over and asked, “What’cha doing?” He texted something and murmured, “Food.”

You perked up at that, leaning over to look. Aegon waved a hand, “I just text someone on the kitchen staff to bring us shit, I’m hungry as hell now.”

Damn. Your father made you get your own food even with a staff. You told Aegon so. He replied with a smirk, “That would explain things.”

You demanded, “Explains what?”

“That you know how to do basic shit. I didn’t know how to do it until I met you.”

He somberly stared, looking ashamed of the show of his upbringing. You shrugged, “You couldn’t help that, don’t beat yourself up over it.” You laid on his chest, tapping his nose with a finger.

“If it makes you feel any better, my father made me learn each bastard Valyrian dialect. Also the trade talk, and Dothraki. I would get whipped with the belt if I didn’t study enough,” you admitted quietly.

“Gods that sounds dreadful.” Aegon peered in horror at you.

“I guess it’s what made me work hard, having a crippling fear of failure. Papa was much more harsh on me being his eldest. I know you get that.”

Aegon wrapped warm arms around you and said, “Tell me about Hellholt, your family.”

Eating and chatting and maybe another round of sex ended another strange day at Dragonstone.

The next day you’d received a note from Rhaenyra asking to meet that evening. At breakfast you went to her immediately. She gazed expectantly and you gushed, “I would love to tonight!” Rhaenyra replied, “Perfect, we’ll be in the Sea Dragon tower in my rooms.” With a bow you came to the table.

The family filtered in, Jace looking particularly tired. Aegon nudged you, sharing a knowing smile. Helaena sat next to you. She asked, “How was your evening?”

“Good, good, I was serenaded by your brother.”

She giggled and replied, “Aegon was never very inclined into the musical arts,” she paused in thought, “Or much of anything actually.” She sheepishly apologized after blurting, you patting the princess’ palm in sympathy. Viserys was rolled in by Alicent, completing the table. Staff scuttled about putting food and drink down.

The queen announced, “Let us pray this morning, the doctor is visiting our Viserys today. Then Otto has an announcement.” Aegon groaned in pain, your eyes jerking over to see what was wrong. He whispered, “The fucking hunt.” You tried to speak but your hands were seized by both siblings as Alicent prayed.

When she finished Otto cleared his throat. Aemond leaned in, excitement dancing in his one eye. Looking over you noticed Luke was just as invested, sending a glare to his Uncle. Alicent’s father stated, “I have taken the liberty to hide the dragon egg on the island this morning. After breakfast the hunt begins. Whoever brings it back first will be rewarded.” After some annoyed looks Otto huffed, “I expect everyone to be involved.” He and the queen shot a pointed look at Aegon.

You mouthed to your boyfriend, “What the fuck?”

Not one family member was inclined to let you know what was happening either. You pinched Aegon’s thigh, the blonde choking around a bite of food. He angrily whispered, “It’s a bullshit game where the two sides get stupid competitive, mainly Luke and Aemond. I usually go hide.”

Finally educated on the matter you ate contentedly.

Exiting the stilted breakfast with Aegon you mused, “So where are we hiding?” You two were the last of the younger crowd to leave. Aemond and Luke zoomed out first while Daeron paired off with Baela, Rhaena and Joff led the kids, Jace slinking behind them.

Aegon murmured, “I have a spot, c’mon.”

This time the prince guided you through more weaving hallways to end up on stony stairs descending to the beach. Wind whipped around, blowing your hair roughly. The dragonmont loomed in the distance, reaching darkened fingers to the water. Cave openings littered the rocky outcrops.

Aegon inhaled the salty air, his thumb thumbing across your hand. He said, “Those caves used to be different lairs for dragons.” You finished his sentence, “Now a different dragon hides in them.” Aegon scoffed rudely but held back his smile. He briskly walked along the sands, tugging you along.

Footprints littered the ground from the other Targaryens running around for the egg. Aegon ducked into a crevice, you squinting behind him. Inside it opened up into a bigger chamber, some old markings on the walls illuminated by the dim entrance. You stared up in awe, stopping in your tracks.

Aegon proudly stated, “This was one of my other hiding spots. Figured we could lay low until the damn hunt is over. Or if Aemond exacts revenge on Luke.”

The blonde turned to face you and placed a ringed hand on your cheek. You murmured, “Lay low huh?” You tilted your head up to kiss him gently. Gentle pecks easily turned to heated kisses with you two. Aegon sucked on your tongue with a low groan, his palms squeezing at your waist.

In a tangle of limbs you laid on the sandy stone, Aegon on top and between your thighs. He hotly laid kisses on your sensitive neck, making his way downwards, roaming hands sneaking under your sweater. You whined his name when Aegon pinched at your nipple.

Breathlessly you joked, “I haven’t fucked outdoors in forever.”

Aegon paused his nuzzling at your thigh. Violet eyes glared at you. He pouted, “We’ve never fucked outdoors.” You rolled your eyes and pet at his hair soothingly with a sigh, “Because it was back in Sunspear dummy.”

“Well I’m going to make you forget about that,” he hissed under his breath, “Probably one of those sandy assholes with a gold chain.”

Your haughty laugh peeled off into a cry when Aegon’s tongue laved over your clothed pussy. He had raked up your skirt and pulled down your underwear, ducking as you kicked them off into the gloom of the cave. Aegon sealed his lips around your clit, sucking harshly. You threw your head back, body contorting into an arch.

“F-fuck, remember when yOU- didn’t know how to eat a girl out,” you rambled.

Aegon’s brows furrowed and his fingers swirled around the rapidly collecting slick at your entrance. He easily slid two in with a contented hum. You yanked at his hair when the sucking turned into pointed licks across your sensitive bud. Crying his name you dug a heel into his back.

Aegon crooked his fingers up, rubbing you at a fast pace. You cried, “Good boy- f-fires!” He found a good rhythm, even cheekily slurping at your soaked cunt. You trembled around his fingers as he abused your sweet spot. Sweat beaded along your skin— even in the chill of the cave.

You bit at your lip from making more noise, pride stepping in. Aegon didn’t like that, slipping in a third finger to rake across your insides. Molten heat curled in your belly and you made a rather pathetic noise. Your orgasm was imminent with your whole body on fire like this.

You cursed, “Fuck, fuck, fuck Aegon, fuck you!”

A little nip and your eyes were rolling back up in your head. Aegon’s fingers still curled into your pulsing cunt. You rode his face through the precipice with both hands grabbing his hair for dear life. He groaned deep in his throat, lapping gently as his fingers eased out. You felt suddenly empty, gasping at the feeling.

Looking down frantically you demanded, “If you don’t get your cock in me right now I’m-“

Aegon shushed you with a pinch, very uncharacteristic of his usual submissive nature. You may not admit it— but you didn’t mind this more dominant side of Aegon. He quickly yanked open his pants, shimmying down the underwear next. “C’mon, c’mon,” you urged.

Aegon grabbed your waist and jerked your hips into his lap, spearing you on his cock. The cave echoed with both of your cries. The blonde’s face scrunched, him gritting out, “Fuck you’re wet.” He did not take you in missionary much, preferring to be on the bottom, content with you riding him. Sometimes he’d get overwhelmed when on top, usually flopping over and begging you to do the work.

This time he seemed determined. A fiery look swam in his purple eyes. He pushed deeper with a bitten off whine, eventually managing a couple of thrusts to gain some footing. You ran your hands over his and begged, “Aegon you got it, y’feel so good.”

He thrusted into your warm cunt in a eager manner, pale hair falling in his face. You spread your legs wider for him, earning palms on the bared flesh to keep you opened up. Aegon picked up the pace into rough slaps that stung perfectly. He moaned, “Gods baby, just like that, so tight!” You nodded along, canting your hips up onto his cock.

He leaned forward to take your lips, whimpering helplessly. Instinctively your arms wrapped around his neck, licking into his eager mouth. Aegon panted into the kiss and trembled through his movements. He shakily cried, “Need you to cum around me s’bad please please!”

Tears sprang into his violet eyes, giving you that extra boost. Nothing was more hot than Aegon with teary eyes and bite-swollen lips. You drifted a hand down to your swollen clit and ran frantic fingers over the bud. You whispered, “Yeah sweetheart- gonna cum around your cock- my perfect prince.” You licked at the shell of his ear, feeling that familiar heat sweep over your body.

You came again, tightening around Aegon impossibly. The poor thing sobbed and shuddered, chanting your name in broken gasps. You felt his hot seed fill your pussy while moaning softly. You kissed him again, nipping at his trembling bottom lip. Aegon was flush to you now, dropping like a dead weight after cumming.

“AH BOYS TURN AROUND NO NOPE THE EGG IS THAT WAY! LOOK!,” Jacaerys’ surprised scream came from the entrance. The pair of you stared at the retreating figure. Laughter bubbled from your chest, turning your gaze back on Aegon. He grinned and boasted, “Dear neph was overdue for a lesson on fucking anyways.”

When you both decided to return it had been a couple of hours, exploring caves after catching your breath. Aemond had won the egg, smugly championing it around while Luke glared. Rhaenyra and Daemon gave you a knowing look, smirks upon their lips. Jace stuttered and avoided eye contact when Aegon elbowed him and whispered, “Like the show nephew?”

You blushed too, hoping you didn’t look too debauched in front of everyone at lunch. Tension swirled in the air, mainly from Luke and Aemond. You nervously kept catching Alicent’s eye, who was intensely gazing between your hand intertwined with Aegon’s and his hair— which was really fucked up. Of course she’d know you two were intimate, but not during a family tradition.

Viserys’ interrupted your running mind, clanging a fork against his glass. He rasped, “Good job to my son, and a valiant effort from Luke.” Aemond’s eyes rolling could probably be heard from Essos at that. The king continued, “I am so happy we could all join together for another year. The doctor says the cancer has not let up, so I want to cherish every moment. Could everyone make a sick man happy and share something positive?”

Alicent’s eyes slightly widened, the same expression befalling Rhaenyra’s face. Daemon laughed and spoke, “I’ll start. I am grateful for my dear brother hanging onto life like a leech.” Silence enveloped the room, everyone unsure of how to respond. Until Viserys guffawed and slapped the table, thanking Daemon heartily. A collective sigh of relief came from the Queen, Otto, and Rhaenyra.

The younger boys shared something about having eachother, Viserys the younger babbled about ‘mama’. Rhaena and Baela kept it classy along with Daeron— who was in full ‘dutiful son’ form. Helaena made a sweeping dreamy statement followed by some ominous words.

The last few who haven’t spoke were you, Aegon, the feuding Aemond and Luke. Nervously you raised your glass and announced, “I am very grateful for you all for extending hospitality. Especially Aegon.” Daeron pretended to gag, Aegon elbowing the teen roughly. Viserys seemed happy though.

Aegon surmised, “Well I’d assume that means I’m next. My lady is very supportive, kind, and caring. I’m glad she’s in my life,” he grinned, “Also she’s quite hot, sexy accent and all.” The queen chided, “Aegon please!” You hid laughter behind a sip of wine, kneeing him under the table. His hand rested on your knee, giving a playful squeeze.

Luke piped up, “I am grateful for my brothers, they aren’t power hungry nor conniving.” He pointedly stared down Aemond, who simply laughed. The other second son replied, “I’m grateful for mine as well— true as they are.”

Another fist fight erupted at that. You stood to the side to watch the madness, shaking your head next to a worried Helaena.

The rest of the day was spent babying a pouty Aegon, whining about his family. You asked him why he joined in the fight. Aegon blinked at you owlishly and stated, “Because he’s my brother, of course.” You thought about giving the blonde another bloody nose. Instead you laid in bed and watched movies with the Targaryen.

In the evening you had to detach the clingy dragon from your side and get ready to sup with the crown princess. Aegon smoked a cigarette while you put on makeup, already asking when you’d get back. Putting on mascara you replied, “Why don’t you go bond with Daeron or something? You’ll be fine.”

Aegon seemed to consider it, pulling out his phone to text something.

You slipped on your heels and asked, “Do I look regal enough?”

“You could wear a trash bag and I’d think you’re hot.”

You huffed, “Thanks babe- no- be fucking honest!”

“Yes you look fine, damn,” he muttered in that kicked puppy voice.

You kissed Aegon’s cheek and met Criston Cole outside in the hall. He had your number now for escorting purposes. Since you were pretty sure this castle changed shape at night just to confuse Dornish. In your mind Criston managed to have a secret map so he could navigate the place.

The guard laughed when you explained your conspiracy theory. Criston joked, “I sold my soul to the Targaryens so I could walk around Dragonstone, actually.” He spoke again later across the castle, “Don’t take her shit. Be very genuine and direct with the princess.” You were confused at the malice in Cole’s voice but thanked him regardless.

He stopped in front of the arch to the Sea Dragon tower, gesturing for you to go ahead. The guard called after you, “Just text me when you’re done up there.” Nervously you made your way up the winding stairs. You knocked on the door, Daemon opening it up after a beat. He hummed, “Ah- there’s our little spitfire. Nyra’s waiting on the balcony.”

Thanking the rogue prince you stepped through the suite. Viserys and Aegon the younger were passed out on the giant bed. Your mind immediately questioned why there was two Aegons but shook the thought away. Underneath a stone arch was the princess on a small outcrop. You gave a small bow and sat down.

Rhaenyra commented, “Looked like you and my brother enjoyed the hunt.”

You nervously giggled replying, “He showed me a neat cave.” The princess laughed and pushed over one of the bottles of wine. She tucked her legs up to the side, an abnormally casual look for the stone-faced royal. You poured the bottle into a glass, observing the scene.

You spoke, “Aegon is an idiot but for some reason I’m attracted to him.”

Rhaenyra shrugged, “You seem to be good for him. You’ve known him for two years now?”

You blanked. How did she know that? The princess answered with a smile, “Everyone knows something in King’s Landing. Also he got drunk at the Maiden’s Day feast and talked about ‘his sexy dornish girl’.”

You rolled your eyes and said, “Aegon is horrid at keeping anything in when he drinks. But yes I met him as a freshman. Then made him cry.”

“Good woman.”

Rhaenyra sipped her wine and deadpanned, “Let’s talk about Dorne now. I know your father campaigns defunding the royal family. What’s your take?”

You nodded and mulled over a response, taking a gulp of courage. You replied, “The Targaryen family is funded by the entire realm’s taxes, yes? You are sitting on a mountain of wealth for figurehead parades and world tours. The Martell’s have been on their own now for decades and stay afloat,” you paused for effect, “For the most part Westeros adores your family, save the North and South, but you don’t need that much support.”

Rhaenyra’s mouth slightly pinched. She shot back, “Fair point. Although the symbol of our family represents much to the identity of Westeros. I’d say my family does more ambassador work with Essosi countries than our own government,” she leveled you with a sharp look, “The upkeep of the castle is not cheap either whether we are in there or not.”

Oh. She was sharp. But you had a couple tricks up your sleeve. The night went on with banter, not necessarily mean spirited. At the end of the day, Dorne was always going to be the willful daughter of the former Seven Kingdoms.

You had gotten drunker than you expected, stumbling a bit when you got up to use the bathroom. Rhaenyra laughed, “Don’t have the fortitude of Aegon, huh?” You huffed, “Nothing phases him. Unless it’s Summer Isles rum.”

In the bathroom you finally checked your phone. A couple of texts from Aliandra, your cousin Taron, and a bombardment of calls, snaps, and texts from Aegon. He had to be drunk. The prince usually gets very needy when he’s shitfaced. Another call lit up your phone, a dreadful photo of Aegon popping up on your phone.

You slid your thumb across the screen and held the device up to your ear. And then holding the phone away from your ear because drunken shouting. Aegon slurred, “Babyyyyyy when d’ya get back? Daeron’s past out and m’bored!” You shook your head in amusement. Daeron yelled in the back, “I am not passed out!”

“I’m heading back in a couple minutes, I’ll let you know when I’m back in the room.”

You could physically hear the pout through the phone. He had not an ounce of patience. Aegon whined, “C’mon and hurry up, pleaseee?” Criston should be on his way soon to guide you back. In this state you’d never be found again in the castle without help. You replied, “Yes, yes, whiny baby I will be there soon.”

“Good. I looooove youuu.”

“Love you too idiot.”

[typhlonectes]

Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus)

Known as qawax (Aleut) and wiinaq (Alutiiq), they can be found in summers in Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge at their terrestrial rookeries where they mate, rest, and birth, and at haul-out sites at other times of the year when not in water. The refuge provides the endangered western range of Steller sea lions with protected habitat like beaches, rock outcroppings, and remote islands to support their return to healthy population sizes. Photo by Tom Collopy/Mary Frische/USFWS

Find out more:

Steller Sea Lion | NOAA Fisheries

[rannadylin]

Today's tea: Tea in the Rookery, a decaf blend for Esme, the Eothasian acolyte who has shown up like once so far in Soul and Shield but who does have a larger role to play when I eventually resume writing that... :-D This fruity decaf is my evening comfort tea.

Today's knit: Ebb and Flow has left the needles! At last you can see the triangle shape of it - it's a cowl that transitions into a mini-shawl for added warmth/coverage. Now that these photos are done, it's having a lovely soak and will soon be blocking, so you can consider this the before photos and tomorrow, hopefully, we'll have after-blocking photos to compare.

[rooklinqs]

My beautiful son Michael who functioned with 1 braincell today!

[aroundtheworldin214days]

February 21, 2023 - Day 56

Port Stanley, Falkland Islands

Two things really surprised me about the Falklands. The first is that there are 750+ islands of which 10 are populated. The second was how few people live here. Port Stanley is the largest town and has a population of 2,460 and the total population of all the islands is 3,398. There is a large military population that doubles the population to about 6000. Argentina still claims the Falklands so the UK keeps a active military presence. There is an international airport that has two flights a week from the UK and one flight a week from Chile. There is a local ferry that runs between the islands. It is a tough place to get to and that is fine with the locals. The islands have their own beer brewery and distillery which makes gin and vodka and several small restaurants that make the best fish and chips you have ever tasted. The main industry is based on sheep. They export wool, lamb and mutton. We walked through Port Stanley then went out to a penguin rookery in a four wheel Land-rover. The rookery was on a large cattle ranch. There was a lot of grass and deep black soil that is used as peat. Two years ago they finally got all the mine fields cleared from the 1982 war with Argentina and the land is being used to raise cattle for local use. There is a very nice museum in Port Stanley with a lot of relics from that conflict.

In the photos below I put some images of the three penguin and one goose species we saw. The geese are Upland geese and the driver told us they are a real pest in the Falklands and there is an open season on them. He said “You can shoot and eat as many of the foul tasting creatures as you want.”. The rather majestic penguin with the orange on its neck is the King Penguin. I put a video of two King Penguins interacting. Most of the penguins at the rookery were Geetoo Penguins. They are the ones with the white spot in their head. I put one photo of a Magellanic penguin framed between two Geetoo Penguins. The Magellanic penguin is the rather short stout penguin with a stipe across his neck. The locals called them “jackass Penguins” because they sound like a donkey when they vocalize. I also put in a photo of a large white arched structure in the park which is made from whale ribs.

[xtruss]

Great Egret In the Desert, 2012 This close up, photographed at J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island in Florida, is juxtaposed against the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley.

The Art of Birds, Revealed Through an Altered Reality

— By Becky Harlan • Published: June 30, 2015 | Saturday April 27, 2024 | All Images Created By Cheryl Medow

At first glance, these birds wowed me. A few seconds later I started to wonder, Are they real?

Well … Yes. And No.

Grey Crowned Cranes Each crowned crane was photographed on an acacia tree near Richards Camp in Masai Mara, Kenya. Mount Kenya was photographed from a Cessna.

Before attempting to explain what’s going on in these images, the artist, Cheryl Medow, might appreciate you taking a similar approach to experiencing her photography as she does to making it. “I don’t think my pictures through,” she says, “I feel them.”

She described this incident to me: Visitors at one of her gallery shows were asking questions about how she creates her work, and she was answering. But then a guest approached her and said, “No, no, no, don’t say a thing. I just want to enjoy these pictures.” It was then that she realized that she was looking for an emotional reaction, for people to enjoy looking at the work without having all the answers.

So please: Look. Enjoy. Feel.

Roseate Spoonbills Each bird was photographed at St. Augustine’s Farm in Florida. This is where they nest in the spring. The waves were shot in Hanalei Bay, Kauai.

Cattle Egret Portrait ”During mating season the cattle egret colors are like a rainbow,” says Medow. This portrait was photographed in Florida, with the pattern of sand dunes from Death Valley in the background.

White Ibis With Fish This white ibis with his seaweed and fish catch were photographed at J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, Florida. The background clouds and surf were shot in Hanalei Bay, Kauai.

But if you’re like me, you still want to know the story behind these images. So here goes.

These are real birds, photographed in the wild. They are also pictured in real landscapes. And both parts of the images are photographed by Medow. But they weren’t captured at the same time and often not in the same place.

Why does she go to the trouble of capturing these stunning birds in the wild and then transposing them somewhere else?

Great Blue Heron With Chicks Balancing on a branch, the great blue heron was photographed at the Venice Rookery in Venice, Florida, along with the chicks in a nest. The background was photographed in Bigfork, Montana.

Greater Flamingo I This flamingo was photographed on Isabela Island in the Galápagos in a brackish saltwater lagoon. The clouds were also photographed in the Galápagos on a different day.

It all started because she was photographing birds with a 600mm lens. And when you shoot birds with a lens that long, the rest of the background becomes blurry—the birds wind up being the only thing in the frame that’s in focus. All context is lost. She wanted to put the birds back into an environment, so she began creating composite images.

At first she was just placing the birds into photos of the landscapes where she’d originally shot them. But then she realized she could take it to another level—she could put the birds anywhere and at any scale.

Saddle-Billed Storks This mother and baby were photographed in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The landscape was shot by plane in the same area, traveling from Sirikoi Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Laikipia to Richards Camp in Masai Mara.

“I’m an artist first, and photography is a tool that I use to be creative,” she says. “When I picked up the camera and the computer it opened up new possibilities for me. I can make the birds much larger than life. It draws attention to these guys that if you just saw them in the wild with the naked eye you wouldn’t see.”

She draws inspiration from the Hudson River School painters. “They took their sketchpads and went out, as I take my camera and go out, and they got sketches of all these different things. And when they went back to their studios and made their paintings, they combined the different elements that they had seen out in the field. So when the normal person went to the Hudson River and looked for the pictures they couldn’t find some of them. And that’s because they weren’t out there in the real world. Even the painters had manipulated what they had seen and brought it together and combined different elements to make their paintings,” she says. “They’re redoing nature in their mind’s eye, and I guess I’m doing that too.”

Reddish Egret This bird was photographed at Little Estero Lagoon, Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The landscape was also shot in Fort Myers at a different time.

Her subjects come from all over the world. Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, South Africa, Los Angeles, New Mexico, the Galápagos, Costa Rica, and Brazil are some of the places she’s traveled to photograph birds. She’ll often photograph at a certain place during a certain season to see, for instance, an egret in its mating plumage. “I’ll pick April and May to go to Florida because that’s when they’re in their mating colors,” she says.

Great Egrets, A Starry Night The egrets were photographed in St. Augustine, Florida, and Devereux Lagoon and Slough, Santa Barbara, California. The night sky was photographed in Hanalei Bay, Kauai.

Some might think that because these images involve Photoshop in their final state that the painstaking work of photographing a bird in the wild is somehow less work. But Medow assures me that capturing these creatures in the wild isn’t for the hurried. “When I go out and shoot birds there’s a real Zen, a meditative state. Patience is something that I think is a wonderful asset to have, and I don’t usually use it in my normal life, so when I go out in the field I can almost zone out. I could sit there for hours waiting for birds to come and go,” she says. “They’re wild. They’re really wild. They can fly away. There’s something about that that’s just intriguing to me.”

[rabbitcruiser]

Elephant Seal Viewing Point, CA (No. 2)

Elephant Seal Viewing Area

The Elephant Seal viewing area is the best place to see the seals, with boardwalks and viewing platforms that extend both north and south of a large parking area. On-site volunteers and interpretive educational panels will guide you around the rookery.

Grab your binoculars and come see these magnificent marine mammals up close on one of the prettiest coastlines in California.

Viewing Guidelines

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Elephant seals are not always easy to see. Their natural camouflage blends into sand and driftwood.

Stay at a distance. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens, or take photos from the pier. If a seal lifts his head to look at you, you have disturbed him and you are too close.

Keep your dog on a leash at all times. Elephant seals can bite with their large, sharp teeth. For your pet’s safety, do not ever allow your dog to approach a seal, regardless of how inactive the seal seems.

Keep your voice down. Elephant seals have ears and can hear you. Loud noises disturb them. Do not shout or call out to each other on the beach. If your dog is barking, please leave the beach.

Move slowly and minimize your body movements. Elephant seals have excellent eyesight and can see you.

Do not touch seals or throw objects into the water at seals. These actions disturb resting seals. The Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits harassment of all marine mammals.

Leave your drone at home. This is a no-drone zone.

Consider the seal’s perspective. How would you feel being interrupted constantly while you lie on the beach? How would you respond to loud noises, barking dogs and movement all around you? How would you react to someone causing you harm? Please allow the seals to rest undisturbed.

Source

[rwimages]

Fine Art Prints | Framed | Canvas | Metal | Acrylic | Wood | Large Wall Decor Art | Licensing

Photo of the Day: FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT ROOKERY BUILDING STAIRCASE CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE BLACK AND WHITE https://www.rwimages.com/-/galleries/illinois/chicago-black-and-white-photos-framed-prints/-/medias/0d8c5c1c-ea64-11e3-8f10-329e81129ea7-frank-lloyd-wright-rookery-building-staircase-chicago-architect

[aimer-imaginer-penser]

Untitled (The Rookery), Photo By Richard Nickel, 1950-70