#wait and also sandy passage

[happyely2]

Pairing: Portuguese D. Ace x Fem!Reader

Rating: 18+ | The rating will be red this time, so if you are a minor skip this reading or highlight your age in your bio.| sex scenes, cuddles, and much more very explicit.

Summary: 31 prompts for 31 days of October. Life on Moby Dick is always hectic and has become more so since Ace boarded this ship and became part of the family.

✒️Prompts taken from the contest (even if I don't participate) organized by the Italian Fanwriter page. I only translated the prompts into English, I hope you like it.✒️

🌊Writober PumpSea🌊 #day 6 - Saltiness

The island you found was desolate.

A desolate paradise just for you.

It took a couple of days of sailing with the medium of Ace and so much coffee to keep him awake, but in the end you managed to get to the island where you would have spent a couple of days just for you. You only talked to WhiteBeard about it, showing him that you had come into possession of a Loge Pose and a map during one of your last raids on an opposing ship.

And the old man gave you permission to go and explore the island in question, and he also told you to call every once in a while so that everyone would not worry.

So you left, backpacks and supplies for the journey and at dawn you were already at sea.

"Ace look at that crystal clear water!" You said by taking off your sandals and dipping them in the water while the Strider slowed down, you had found a natural inlet that created a sort of open-air cave and a small white sandy beach waiting for you.

According to the map that was the only point through which you could access the island or you had to climb a rocky wall and walk around the rocks.

"We gotta anchor the Strider, be careful, all right?" Ace said stroking your hair and then taking a top to throw on the rocks next to it to tow it to shore.

You nodded, you took off your clothes, and you stayed in your bathing suit, you took Ace’s dagger, and then you dived into the water, it was pretty deep, and the bottom was full of corals and fish that you didn’t seem to mind.

You went deeper to catch some fish and start exploring the surroundings to understand the map directions.

You stayed underwater until the Strider’s shadow disappeared, and only then did you decide to surface with the small loot you had procured.

"So what?" Ace was on the beach, had already set a fire and with fallen trees he had created benches on which to sit and had begun to prepare the tent.

"Look, I caught a lot of fish!" you said by showing him your loot and he laughed and left a kiss on your cheek.

"I’ll start cooking them, it’ll take a while if you want to take another bath you can." He said as a snap of his fingers lit the fire. You nodded and went back into the water, using the rocks to dive in and start looking for other useful information. The bottom was full of sand, with rocks and corals at least five meters high, swimming in it was quite easy and even the passages themselves were very easy. There didn’t seem to be any dangerous predators.

A good yellowfin fish walked by and started following them.

It was better to stock them up because you had travelled light.

You went out a couple of hours later from the water, Ace had dedicated himself to cleaning the fish and had him cooking on the fire, he had also been so careful to take off the bone.

You hung the rest of your loot on a branch so as not to put it on the ground and you lay down on the tablecloth that one guy had prepared for you to dry in the sun.

A hand on your back made you smile, Ace had sat next to you, with food ready, two giant bowls of rice and fish in hand.

You tied your wet hair and sat next to Ace to enjoy the shade and the light sea breeze that he had taken to blow.

"How was the water?"

"Beautiful, you don’t know how many corals I’ve seen of different colors." You responded by leaning on him and eating your meal: "No predators, no small sharks, no moray eels, or they’re somewhere else or I don’t know." You said biting your meal.

Ace laughed and after a while he took the map you brought.

"At least that makes things easier for us. The treasure should be here, sorry to make you do all the work." He said Ace by finishing his meal and placing the bowl on a rock near you and carefully observing the designs and directions that were present on the parchment.

"Don’t worry Honey, sometimes it’s right that I do something too, usually you do everything." You kissed him on the shoulder and Ace grinned and lay down with you in the afternoon sun to get some rest.

You have fallen asleep close to each other with the background noise of the sea.

Until the Lumacofano started playing insistently and made you wake up suddenly, Ace took him and the calm and calm voice of Marco interrupted the silence that had been created.

"We’re fine, we were resting." Ace said with his voice still sleepy. The sun was still high in the sky, you hadn’t slept too much.

"Better yet, do you have any news?"

"We found the spot indicated by the map, but as we suspected there are no caves on the surface, they will be underground, it will take a while to catch the treasure." You said while you stretched your legs and arms.

Before you started and before you podevate enjoy your short vacation.

"All right, let us know if you need anything, I should be able to find it in a short time and I recommend that you hear." He reiterated Marco closing the conversation.

"Still with this story they know very well that if we don’t call everything is fine." He said Ace putting the Slug back in his place and then taking his hat from the rock in which he had laid it.

"Do you want to start seeing where the treasure is?" He asked you as he saw you were tying a waterproof bag to your waist.

"Yes, I want to use the light before the sun goes down." You answered by turning to him and smiling at him.

Ace nodded and handed you his knife, just in case it was always better to be prepared he told you, despite the absence of predators did not trust to let you swim not without protection.

"You see that rock there in the middle, it swims immediately in that direction and you notice something strange, I’ll come and get you right away." Ace said by snapping a loud kiss on your cheek.

You nodded and went into the water.

Your exploration lasted literally until sunset and was really very profitable. The currents were not strong and the crystal clear water had allowed you to find the chest immediately, along with everything that was on the bottom.

It was a great haul. Ace helped you get him out of the water by exploiting the rocks that emerged from the sea and before the sun went down you had almost everything.

"Tomorrow we will organize the space on the Strider for tonight we can rest." He said taking your life and taking you for a ride in mid-air.

You laughed happy, for once a mission proceeded smoothly. It was too good to be true.

The camp was ready, dinner was ready, and the inventory of what you found had already been made by Ace as you brought something back to the gala.

You wore a perforated sundress and you enjoyed the evening with Ace, he asked you every detail of the bottom, the fish you saw and many other things.

Ace a little envied you, having eaten a fruit of the devil could not stay with you in salt water.

It was a shame because he would have liked to take long swims with you to explore the seabed.

"Ace... will you help me get the salt out of my body?" You whispered in his ear resting for a moment your lips on the lobe and then withdrawing almost immediately and melting the sundress that you had put on your self.

Ace envied you a little bit, but he always liked it when you asked him to help you get rid of salt in your body.

"With pleasure my love." said your man approaching you and holding you close to him. Ace wasted no time searching for your lips, he bitten them urgently and licked them immediately after.

She took advantage when you hatched her to better deepen the kiss, Ace made you taste the salt that was deposited on your body.

You scratched his hips and Ace sighed inside your kiss when you started tinkering with his belt.

But first he had to get the salt out of your body.

Ace has abandoned your lips, descending down your neck and savoring every inch with his burning tongue. You have arched your back to feel it closer to Ace has harpooned your butt with his warm hands to pick you up and lift you and brought you near a rock to make you sit.

A thrill descended down your spine in contact with the cold rock, but Ace’s warm tongue warmed you up right away. Your top piece had flown away and now it lay on the white sand as Ace’s mouth moved greedily over your breast.

Ace was licking, biting, sucking hard, and nippling you, making you scream with pleasure, and you were alone and you could afford it.

"What a hungry sailor." You whispered to him, clutching his hair and pulling a little when Ace bit his nipple hard.

"Ahhh..." You groaned your legs, looking for some satisfaction.

"Yes I am a very hungry sailor." He told you by licking the other nipple and taking them both together, starting to caress them and bite them with his teeth.

You screamed again for pleasure and Ace enjoyed every single groan that came out of your lips.

He loved taking you to the edge.

He continued his descent of kisses on your belly, biting and scratching the skin near your navel and then quickly removed the piece from under your costume, noting with pleasure the stain that had formed on it.

"Someone here needs to be properly controlled." He said as he knelt on the sand and used the height of the rock to be able to admire you better.

"Acee..." You tried calling him, but your voice died in your throat when his tongue crept in. You arched your back again as Ace’s hand came back to tighten your nipple and the other one held your leg still.

"Shhh Love, let me take this salt off you." He whispered to you, got back inside you and made you scream at too much stimulation.

Her fingers had penetrated you, middle and index fingers, as her tongue made circles around your clitoris and tapped it just enough to make you wince and moan loudly. You had tears in your eyes from how much it was stimulating you.

And you felt like you were reaching the limit.

You tried to stop him, to get up, but his hands stopped you, he tightened your thighs tighter and intensified your tongue movements.

"Aceee... I.... I come..." You said arching your back and seeing for a moment the stars closest to you. And Ace didn’t walk away, but he ate all of you.

"So good just for me." He told you by kissing your lower belly and slowly going up to your lips and then catching them in a needy kiss

You held it to yourself, making your breast adhere to her chest and feeling the thrill of her cool red pearls in contact with your warm skin.

You heard a rustle of clothes, Ace’s boots flying somewhere and then his presence pounding on your lower abdomen.

You have moved the hips of instinct and you have widened a little more the legs and Ace entered inside your pussy with one and only push, going to hit your sensitive point.

"I found a treasure." He whispered in your ear, made you blush and started pumping inside you.

"Perhaps I’d have a bigger reward if you behave yourself sailor." You answered him kissing him again urgently. And Ace went crazy and started pushing harder into you.

One thrust, two spines, three thrusts and you screamed with pleasure when Ace hit that spot again, it didn’t give you time to recover that it kept pumping all its length inside you.

You could feel your walls tightening tightly to his cock and getting wetter and wetter as he kept hitting incessantly and nonstop.

"Love..." A whisper, a poorly restrained groan and a silent request.

You nodded and kissed him again and allowed him to pour into you.

You both came, collapsing on the cold rock and panting, but happy.

Ace picked you up once he got out of you and brought you by the fire. You curled up on him and listened to his heartbeat.

"We should do this more often." he said while playing with your locks of hair.

"What?" you asked leaving a kiss on his chest.

"Look for underwater treasures." He responded by rekindling the fire with his power.

"Maybe next time you could be the sailor who stole the mermaid’s tail." You said already imagining the situation.

"Ohhh... and what would this mermaid do to get her tail back." Ace bit your neck, and you sighed at his hand, and it was creeping back into you.

"Ahhh... I think he could do anything Love." You kissed him back.

"It took you three whole days to recover all this stuff?" Satch looked at you puzzled. I mean, it was a nice haul, but generally it would have taken less.

"How much sun did you take?" asked Marco noting your tanned skin and the fact that there was no sign of the costume.

Izo laughed, or if he laughed relishing the scene of your interrogation. Marco and Satch didn’t want to admit the evidence, and White Beard also laughed with him.

"Three days? What did you do?"

You turned red to remember the days you spent sunbathing and making love to Ace on the beach.

"Come on, Satch, any self-respecting pirate is very careful to make sure he’s got all the treasure." Ace’s hand had rested on your back, even though it was next to you you could feel the grin that had appeared on his face perfectly.

Oh he took all the treasure.

"What’s wrong with our little sister?" Izo approached you, seeing you red as a pepper: "Too strong a heat stroke?" He winked at you while you took his cheeks to pinch him and Ace laughed.

"These two will drive us crazy Marco." Satch enjoyed the scene alongside Marco and the Fenice nodded.

You really were the worst generation, you and Ace.

[yakumtsaki]

Hello dear readers, guess who has a 3 day weekend! 

-𝙽𝙾 𝙾𝙽𝙴 𝙲𝙰𝚁𝙴𝚂 𝙰𝙱𝙾𝚄𝚃 𝚈𝙾𝚄𝚁 𝟹 𝙳𝙰𝚈 𝚆𝙴𝙴𝙺𝙴𝙽𝙳! 𝙲𝚈𝙽𝙴𝚂𝚆𝙸𝚃𝙷 𝚈𝙾𝚄 𝚂𝙰𝙸𝙳 𝚈𝙾𝚄'𝙳 𝙽𝙴𝚅𝙴𝚁 𝚃𝙾𝚄𝙲𝙷 𝚈𝙾𝚄𝚁 𝙷𝚄𝚂𝙱𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽! -I meant that metaphorically!🌸 -𝙳𝙾𝙴𝚂 𝙽𝙾𝚃 𝙲𝙾𝙼𝙿𝚄𝚃𝙴!

Oh wow so no greetings or anything, just straight to it after a month?

-Oh, you bet! I HATE YOU, BARFOLOMEW -GET YOUR HANDS OFF ME, FAILINA

WHAT. WHY ARE YOU CLONE FREAKS FIGHTING

-THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE RECESSIVE-GENED KID AROUND HERE AND IT IS I! -THE HELL IT IS!

What??? What even is this interaction, I’ve never had kids do this before????

-IT’S THE TORMENT INTERACTION AND BARFOLOMEW’S EXISTENCE IS TORMENTING ME. HE’S NOT EVEN SUPPOSED TO BE HERE, HE WAS AN ACCIDENT!!! -LOOK AT YOUR EAXIS HAIR BEFORE YOU TALK OF ACCIDENTS, FLOPINA!!!!

But you got along as toddlers!

-WELL NOW WE KNOW BETTER

Uh, any adults here feel like intervening in this bloodbath downstairs?

-Sorry, we were into them while they were cute babies, once they hit age 6 they’re on their own. -But we’re more than happy to have another one, if only someone would turn autonomous try-for-baby back on!

Ya absolutely not. Sandy?

-̵B̷U̸S̵Y, T̷H̶I̵S ̴I̶S D̵E̴F̷IN̷IT̸E̴L̷Y T̸H̷E C̸E̷N̵T̶U̵R̸Y W̵H̶E̵R̷E I̸ F̷I̵N̵A̵L̶L̴Y G̵E̷T ̵P̸R̷O̷M̶O̶T̵E̶D🧟‍♀️

Sure you are. Sugar??

-All by myself.. Don’t wanna be all by myself, anymooooreeeee...🎵

YOU CHEATED ON BOTH YOUR WIVES.

-And I’m ready for a third!

God, I already miss having Jojo around to berate you.

Shajar I don’t even know why I’m bothering to address you for this, but could you talk to your grandkids? 

-AHAHAHAHA

Ya I figured.

OH THANK GOD

-As usual Sophie Fucking Miguel has stepped in to save the day. Grandma just said a bad word, Felina, you shouldn’t repeat that.  -I FUCKING HATE BARFOLOMEW 

Well Sophie is still the best we have, love you babe.

And SUGAR also steps up. The fact you ruined your family only to be the best uncle ever is just.

-Don’t worry buddy, we’ll build up your arm strength and you’ll be beating up Felina in no time!

Look at Kitana beating up Shinok, just like Dobronega beat her up, what a rite of passage🧡

-YOU’RE GOING DOWN, SONNY BOY. IT’S THE CIRCLE OF LIFE

I feel like you have your circles mixed up, Kitana, but what do I know.

We end the night with the reignition of the Don/Sandy feud which began and continues for no discernible reason. 

-D̴O̴N̷'̷T T̶H̷I̵N̶K J̵U̴S̷T ̷B̴E̸C̶A̸U̵S̶E I̵ D̵I̶E̵D A̴G̸A̸I̴N ̴I̵ F̷O̷R̴G̶O̵T ̸I ̵H̸A̵T̵E Y̸O̵U🧟‍♀️ -You did forget what showers are so it was a fair assumption! 

Ok let’s break it up here, that’s enough for one night..

-LOOKS LIKE IT’S A NEW DAY, SANDY!!!

-HA, GET REKT! -T̸H̷I̶S I̷S̴N̴'̸T O̶V̸E̵R, G̶E̵E̴Z̸E̴R🧟‍♀️

Two ancient carcasses beating each other up, does it get better than this?

Oh wait, it does, two ancient carcasses tripping balls. The only person in this house remotely acting their age is Sophie, and she’s gonna be buried in her teenage tracksuit.

It’s a snow day so we invite over Spice! Ok Cyn, I know this topic tends to confuse you but this is your actual grandchild.

-Sophito had another kid?💗

...Yes, yes he did. 

AWWWW

-Don’t worry buddy, we’ll build up your arm strength and you’ll be beating up Bartholomew in no time!

Sugar please stop trying to start a child fight club.

I was beginning to think Felina’s a-lot-for-us 7 nice points were fake af like Cyn’s, but she gets along great with Spice, so clearly it’s only her brother she hates!  

-Haha you’re dead, loser! -My ghost will kill you! -Yay let’s play ghosts next! -Yay!

Ok you two, let Barf- BARTHOLOMEW, goddammit Felina, play with you.

-UM HARD PASS -Ya, he’s weird!

-Who needs friends when you can swim fully dressed? 

Those recategorized outfits are not helping your rep, Barth..

..and I need you all on your best behavior because our beloved Headmaster Vince is here, he finally felt safe enough to come by again now that Victoria has been dead for 150 years!

-I thought it was time to bury the hatchet!

Clearly you thought wrong as Xander going out of his way to piss on you proves!

iVan has been having another one of his breadkowns all day, I love how he alternates between mechanic and mental ones, so the task of cooking fell.. 

..TO CYN. I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU DIDN’T BURN IT, GREAT JOB

-And you said I wasn’t a good grandma!💗

BECAUSE THESE AREN’T YOUR GRANDKIDS. Let’s just have dinner with goddamn Vince so he can fuck off.

-Let me tell you, Mr. Union, if your cousin had won the heirship instead of you I wouldn’t be back here! He was the worst student we’ve had in our thou$hand year hi$tory! And that hat!  -Stay calm, babe! 

Sophito please, put your deranged and inexplicable loyalty to Sugar aside just this once for the sake of your children.

-Have.. to... DEFEND-

NO YOU DON’T. EXCUSE YOURSELF

-I HAVE TO GO.

Good, that’s it and not a point more, gtfo Vince! No one but us gets to point out Sugar is an abomination!

Time to celebrate with some pet-graveyard-DJ-karaoke. I don’t remember if I’ve told you guys about the Sugar-Shajar friendship but it’s killing me, the way Cyn-Shaj wanna swap kids but Sophie is standing in the way lol.

Oh boy, iVan is now hitting the bar at 10 am. 

-𝙸 𝙳𝙾𝙽'𝚃 𝙷𝙰𝚅𝙴 𝙰 𝙿𝚁𝙾𝙱𝙻𝙴𝙼, 𝙸 𝙲𝙰𝙽 𝙿𝚁𝙴𝚂𝚂 𝙴𝚂𝙲 𝙰𝙽𝚈𝚃𝙸𝙼𝙴!

When I look inside the house I can’t blame you:

-YOU’RE A LOSER, FAILINA, YOU’RE A LOSER LIKE GRANDMA SHAJAR!

Uh, you’re the one with Shajar’s personality, Barth. 

-I know, that’s why I need to preemptively stick that label to Failina! 

LOL the Shajar comparison has poor Felina like 😬😬😬 

-MOM WELCOME HOME HUG HUG ETC. BARFOLOMEOW SAID I’M A LOSER LIKE GRANDMA SHAJAR, IT’S NOT TRUE RIGHT?? -Oh sweetheart, of course not! Your personality is just like your dad’s and he’s definitely not a loser! 

LOL good one, Liz!

-Ok Barth, that one broke my jaw, let’s calm down, buddy.. -Oops! >:D

June and Lakshmi’s bebe Bleu is here again and she got the neverending flu from us that she’s now gonna spread to all the spare households! Amazing job, Bleu! 

-Grandma, Barfolomeow said I’m a loser like you! You’re not a loser, right? -What nonsense, would a loser be Mayor by age 24 running unopposed in a town populated only by her close relatives?? Now run along, you little pest, I need to get high!!! 

-THIS IS IT, BARFOLOMEW, ME AND YOU, RIGHT NOW.  -WHAT? -YOU MADE ME COMPARE MYSELF TO GRANDMA SHAJAR, YOU’RE GOING DOWN -BUT MY TRAINING IS NOT COMPLETE -I DON’T CARE, PUT ‘EM UP

Our first child fight! What a proud moment for this family, not even Shaj and Cyn beat each other up.

-Oh no, iVan, how could this have happened?? 10 bucks on Felina, that boy has noodle arms. -𝙸'𝙻𝙻 𝚃𝙰𝙺𝙴 𝚃𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝙰𝙲𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽.

Drinking, homewrecking, betting on child fights, you really are a huge help around this house, iVan.

This is the longest fight ever, WILL YOU TWO KNOCK IT OFF

-NO. THE CROWN IS MINE

What, Felina’s little plastic crown? Just take it who cares??

-THE HEIRSHIP CROWN

WHO CARES ABOUT THAT EITHER, YOU TWO LOOK IDENTICAL

-I AM VICTORIOUS

YA NO WE’RE ALL LOSERS HERE. ENEMIES?? HOLY HELL, KIDS

And now it’s time for the I-lost-the-fight whining. Cut it out, Felina, if you didn’t wanna lose maybe you should have trained before attacking.

-That’s a terrible message! 

Trust me, it’s the most compassionate one you’re gonna get around here.

-WAAAAH SANDY I LOST MY BIG FIGHT

-T̷E̴L̷L I̷T T̴O ̴S̷O̸M̷E̶O̶N̴E W̶H̶O̵ C̶A̶R̷E̴S̵, B̷R̴A̷T̵, I̵ H̴A̷V̵E P̵E̴T B̴E̴D̷S̵ T̷O̴ C̵L̷E̷A̷N. U̸S̷E̷L̶E̵S̷S-A̸S̶S̵ i̷V̷A̶N I̶S̷T̸G̵🧟‍♀️

The clones return from school the next day and both get A+s!

-YES I’M THE BEST!

-AND I’M THE BESTEST!

Ya ok whatever, now that you’re both happy why don’t we sit in our ‘beautiful’ living room and talk this out?

-Listen, Failina.. -Ugh, I’m so great it’s practically insane. -FAILINA.  -I’M NOT RESPONDING TO THAT NAME, BARF -WELL YOU SHOULD, IT SUITS YOU BETTER 

-I’M THIS CLOSE, BARF. THIS CLOSE -JUST TRY ME

Ok then, let’s stop sitting in our living room and go as far away from each other as possible.

Don has like 2 days left on this earth (💔) and apparently he’s gonna spend them beating up Sandy.

-Get back in there and bring home the gold!🌸

WHAT GOLD

Look how ecstatic he is, normally I stop those multiple fights but I’m gonna give him this last treat, but man it’s not even a fight, he has 10 body points to Sandy’s 0.

-I LOVE BEATING UP THE WEAK AND DEFENSLESS 

I’ll miss you, Don🖤

Boy, everyone is enraged tonight. 

-I’M SO PISSED ABOUT MY BED

-I’M SO PISSED ABOUT FAILINA

-̴I̷'̷M̶ S̸O P̴I̵S̵S̵E̸D A̴T̸ W̵H̴AT̶EV̵E̸R̸ T̷H̶E H̷E̶L̸L̷ I̶T ̸I̵S T̶H̸I̵S D̵O̸N S̴P̸A̴W̵N I̵S D̷O̵I̴N̶G🧟‍♀️

Ya that’s actually a valid complaint, Sugar wtf are you doing.

-I never noticed how much this weight gain suits you, Sands! Wowza!

GROSS. LEAVE SANDY ALONE. I CAN’T EVEN LOOK AT THIS, MOVING ON

It’s Don’s last day so he and Cyn spend some quality time making passionate geriatric love and hearfarting over each other in perfect synchronicity-

-and it’s time to say goodbye to our Donnie.

-DON OATES, YOUR TIME HAS COME💀 -Man, I love your outfit! Can I get one like this?  -NO, IT’S CUSTOM CHANEL💀 -UGH -DAD NO -I’m pissed too, Sug, ‘custom Chanel’ my ass!

-COME ALONG NOW💀 -Goodbye Moonflower et al!🖤 -Hang on Donnie, I’m coming! I’m coming!!🌸 -I’ll miss hearing you say that!🖤

And with this final ‘EW’, our beloved Donaldo leaves us. Rest in peace, Don, you were the most loving and tolerant legacy spouse of all time. I’ll miss your iconic style, your bloodlust, and your complete indifference to anyone who wasn’t Cyn❤️

Poor Sugar is devastated-

-and I’d be too if I saw this will. OVER

-It’s ok, I know just how to deal with my grief and inheritance bitterness!  -L̵E̶T̶'S̴ A̷C̷R I̴T,B̴A̸B̴Y🧟‍♀️

NO WAY. YOU’RE NOT EVEN FRIENDS. WHAT

-Can we get some privacy please? -Y̶A, I̷T̶'̸S̵ A̴B̷O̴U̷T T̶O̴ G̴E̵T ̴N̶A̴S̵T̴Y🧟‍♀️

HE ZOMBIFIED YOU TO BE HIS NEW MOMMY AND THEN KILLED YOU 20 YEARS LATER, HOW MUCH NASTIER CAN IT GET

-Do you wanna be around to find out?

NO I DO NOT. GOODBYE

[bumblebeeappletree]

Millie’s garden is ambitious, in a relatively small space she is trying to grow food and flowers, create a multi-use functional outdoor space for people and offer habitat to the wild visitors. One of the simplest ways to do this is to add water. Just like we include a diversity of plant species, offering a diversity of water points will cater for different visitors.  

WATER POINT ONE: 

In a small garden bed near the backdoor, Millie wants to set up a simple water pot. I am using an old copper pot, which in my experience works well as a low-maintenance pond. A small amount of copper dissolves in the water, preventing algae growth and disrupting the lifecycle of mosquito larvae. The copper means it is not suitable for fish or frogs but works well as a bath and drinking point for birds. It also offers a great little microclimate for a range of water plants.  

To set up a water pot:

- Pick a position that gets at least 6 hours of sun and ensure it I relatively level  

- Put a shallow layer of gravel in the base 

- Place a few bricks and rocks to act as planting shelves and landing perches 

- Fill with water.

NOTE If you are planning to add fish, wait at least 24 hours to ensure contained chemicals such as chlorine can evaporate, or add a water conditioner.

When it comes to plants, those that like water are as diverse as those on land, with some preferring to be fully submerged, and others just liking wet feet. In many cases, aquatic plants grow well in small pots, as they can access water and nutrients from the water around them.

All can be potted in a similar manner –

- Use a heavy sandy loam, not lightweight, bark-based potting mix.  You don’t want loads of nutrients in the mix either, as they will just dissolve into the water.

- Position the plant quite low in the container and cover the mix with a layer of clean sand and a layer of gravel.  This holds everything in place when plants are submerged.

- Add a stick to ensure safe passage in and out of the water for any small birds.  

WATER POINT TWO:  

As well as the ground-level water pot, Millie is keen to take her habitat game to new heights!  The boundary fence is made of ironbark posts and steel mesh, and from the window, she has observed stacks of birds use it to stop and survey the surrounding garden. That indicates it will also be a great spot to safely provide water for them, out of reach of predators.

- She attaches 2 galvanised steel brackets to a post and sits a large terracotta saucer on top.  Some silicone is used to hold the saucer lightly in position, and rocks are added to balance the bath and offer a route in and out of the bath.

- As a shallow elevated bath, this will need constant filling, so to ensure a consistent supply she installs some dripper to an irrigation timer.

- This runs 1-2 times a day to flush the bath with clean water and ensure the birds can set their watch to it.

The fence line is already heavily planted, with climbing native and exotic clematis, espaliered feijoas and even a callistemon.  But there is always space for more!  Under the drip of the baths Millie plants a native groundcover, austral bugle.

WATER POINT THREE :

The last water point offer is down low, a saucer of water placed on the ground near a habitat pipe installed for reptiles. To make the offering even more enticing, Millie plants some ruby saltbush.

We all spend a lot of spend a lot of time thinking about the garden.  Carefully planning plantings and displays, timing vegie sowing for each season, and even planning garden parties!  But the moments that fill the garden heart with joy are when those unexpected wild visitors pop in.  And there are so many ways you can ensure they have an open invitation.    

Featured Plants:

NARDOO - Marsilea drummondii 

SWAMP GOODENIA - Goodenia humilis 

AUSTRAL BUGLE  - Ajuga australis 

RUBY SALTBUSH - Enchylaena tomentosa 

[nandneeeeeee]

Discover the Wonders of Baratang Island: 15 Must-Visit Places and Hidden Gems

Baratang Island, a hidden gem in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offers natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Known for its unique geological formations and pristine beaches, Baratang is a paradise waiting to be explored. Here are the top 15 places to visit on Baratang Island and Andaman Chanting Island. In addition to this, there are a lot of places to visit in Andaman for next-level experience!

1. Limestone Caves

One of Baratang's most famous attractions, the limestone caves, is a natural wonder. Accessible by a boat ride through dense mangroves, these caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over centuries. The journey itself is an adventure, as you navigate through narrow waterways teeming with wildlife.

2. Mud Volcano

Baratang Island is home to the only active mud volcanoes in India. These fascinating geological formations are created by natural gases pushing up from underground. Although the eruptions are relatively small, they provide a unique and intriguing sight, especially for geology enthusiasts.

3. Parrot Island

A visit to Parrot Island offers a magical experience as thousands of parrots return to roost at sunset. Accessible by boat, this island is a birdwatcher's paradise. The sight of these colorful birds filling the sky is nothing short of spectacular.

4. Baludera Beach

For a tranquil beach experience, Baludera Beach is a must-visit. This serene, less-crowded beach is perfect for relaxation and picnics. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, and the surrounding forest adds to its untouched beauty.

5. Rangat Village

Rangat, located nearby Baratang, offers an authentic glimpse into the local culture. This village is known for its eco-tourism initiatives and lush greenery. Visitors can explore local handicrafts, interact with friendly villagers, and enjoy the peaceful rural setting.

6. Guitar Island Beach

Named after its unique guitar-like shape, Guitar Island Beach is a secluded paradise. Accessible by boat, this pristine beach offers crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming.

7. Mangrove Creek

A boat ride through the mangrove creeks of Baratang is a surreal experience. These creeks form a labyrinth of waterways, providing a serene and picturesque journey. The dense mangrove canopy creates a tranquil environment, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

8. Aamkunj Beach

Aamkunj Beach is an eco-friendly beach located in Rangat. It is well-maintained and features facilities like eco-huts and changing rooms. The beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and the nearby turtle nesting grounds add to its ecological significance.

9. Merk Bay Beach

Located on North Passage Island near Baratang, Merk Bay Beach is another hidden gem. Known for its stunning white sand and clear blue waters, it's an ideal spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life. The beach is relatively untouched, offering a peaceful retreat.

10. Nilambur Jetty

The Nilambur Jetty is the starting point for many boat rides to various attractions on Baratang Island. It’s also a great spot to observe the bustling activity of local fishermen and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding waters.

11. Ramnagar Beach

Ramnagar Beach, located in Rangat, is known for its scenic beauty and serene environment. The beach is lined with tall coconut trees and offers a peaceful spot for relaxation. It's also a great place for watching the sunset.

12. Panchavati Hills

The Panchavati Hills near Baratang offer stunning views of the island's lush landscape. It's a great spot for hiking and nature walks, providing an opportunity to see the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

13. Lalaji Bay Beach

Located on Long Island, near Baratang, Lalaji Bay Beach is a pristine beach known for its turquoise waters and white sandy shores. It's a perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.

14. Amkunj Beach

Amkunj Beach is another eco-friendly beach located in Rangat. It is known for its cleanliness and natural beauty. The beach features eco-friendly huts and is a great spot for picnics and family outings.

15. Yeratta Mangrove Park

The Yeratta Mangrove Park offers an educational experience about the importance of mangroves in the ecosystem. The park features a walkway through the mangroves and provides information about the various species of flora and fauna found in the region.

Conclusion

Baratang Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure. From the awe-inspiring limestone caves and unique mud volcanoes to serene beaches and vibrant local villages, there is something for every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Baratang Island offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you enchanted. Plan your visit to this hidden gem in the Andaman Islands and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[annaofthenorthernlights]

[image: a purple banner with the words Work in Progress Wednesday in a cursive font]

Work in Progress WednesdayCreators: work on or post something from your WIP. This is your weekly reminder to get something down on paper (real or virtual). It’s also a chance to share your progress with your followers and give them a sneak peek of what’s to come!

Fans: leave a comment on an unfinished fic and let the writer know how much you love it. Reblog an artist’s sketch and let them know you can’t wait to see the final product. Send someone an ask cheering them on!Feel free to repost this image!

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thanks @annas-hair-donut for tagging me!

Agreeing with you, taking a little break from all the smut after Frozen Smut Week... (cough, cough...) does me good, too... lol

So, this week, I´d like to share another snippet from my kristanna long-fic WIP "Love can see beyond" (the sequel to Love can see the good on AO3), a canon verse compliant post Frozen 2 fanfic.

Background: Kristoff is crowned King alongside Queen Anna of Arendelle, and right now the married royal couple spends some time abroad icognito (for the time being)... and this fic is going to be a crossover... Note: This snippet is not edited yet... (please, forgive grammar and spelling mistakes...) but a huge thank you @hiptoff who has beta-read this passage a pretty while ago already!

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Gerda had served them a hearty breakfast when Kai announced that he had received the full list of guests so that the royal couple could prepare themselves for the banquet. All those names, titles, noble houses, and then sorting kingdoms and stately connections. Kristoff groaned by the mere thought of the lesson he would receive from the senior Steward later the day. But then, who else could explain all those things better to them than Kai. And so, the young king sighed, dutifully acknowledging the awaiting task.

Only half an hour later they headed down the servants´ staircase and casually walked around the castle gardens and towards the stables. Kristoff smiled to himself. He liked that incognito disguise and tugged at his comfy vest and adjusted his sash, while Anna looked around and marvelled at the variety of flowers around her. It was truly a beautiful parc, Kristoff had to admit, too.

The two reindeers greeted their friends with a happy snort, raising their heads from the last bit of hay that lingered on the ground. Anna went to gather more from the stuck in the adjoined barn and Kristoff started mocking out the stable ground.

Soon, they were done and led the animals out of the stall to give them the opportunity to move about.

“What about we head down to the beach? I am sure there are not many people, and we could let Sven and Fiona run a bit?” Anna pointed towards the path which led away from the stables down to the shore.

“That´s a great idea.” Kristoff smiled and then helped Anna mount Fiona before he swung himself on Sven´s back. He begun to enjoy his time here more and more.

They rode down the path and some people who walked by turned their heads upon the unusual sight of those animals with antlers, and who was riding them? Kristoff and Anna smiled at the passers-by and kept going without another word than good day and hello. It was so easy and made them feel so free.

Once down on sandy ground, Kristoff turned to Anna and grinned, “fancy a little galop?”

“You mean a race?” Anna grinned back.

“No, just a galop.” Kristoff shook his head.

“And I call it a race.” Anna laughed and clicked her tongue on which Fiona snorted happily and set into a cant along the lagune. It was simply wonderful, only that they left the man and reindeer behind them completely flabbergasted.

“Come on, Sven, you would not have your lady running off, will you?” Kristoff laughed and Sven shook his head only to sprint after his friend. It was fun and it didn´t take long for them to catch up and the four enjoyed themselves immensely while galloping close to the water gushing in on the animals´ feet. Anna squealed and reached out so Kristoff could take her hand. She felt more than happy. This was fantastic since they had not such a beach to run like this in Arendelle.

They let the reindeers slow down after a while and caught their breaths, too. But both laughed and their faces glowed from all the joy. Sven and Fiona snorted contentedly and trotted peacefully along the sand now. Anna looked around, breathed in the fresh air and let out a sigh of relief.

“I could get used to that.”

“No comment to that.” Kristoff glanced at her with a wink, and Anna playfully stuck out her tongue at him, “will you tease me now on every sentence I speak about that place?”

“No, Anna. It just sounded so fitting to what we talked about this morning.”

“See?!”

“Alright, alright, I surrender, and I am sorry. And you are right, this is really….”

“Hush!” Anna held up her hand and pulled at Fiona´s rein, staring with narrowed eyes further down the beach.

“What is it?” Kristoff followed her glance and then gasped just as astonished. They got down from the reindeers and led them behind the dunes and further down the beach hidden behind the sandy hills to get a closer look. They ducked behind a lager dune and left Sven and Fiona graze behind them, while the king and queen of Arendelle crawled up the dune from behind to peep over the top. They could hardly believe what they saw, but it was awesome. Kristoff glanced at Anna who stared with almost watering eyes. He knew what she must be thinking and whispered hoarsely, “it´s magic!”

“Yes!” Anna whispered back. “Look, she moves a bit like Elsa.”

“Yeah…” Kristoff stared ahead.

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Can you guess where they are and who might be the mysterious figure they have detected?

tagging (with noooo obligation) @firawren @true--north @thecassadilla @sidepartskinnyjeans

[techtakesoff]

A land for a dersite heir of time?/nf :)

The Heir of Time strikes me as someone who believes very strongly that "time heals all wounds."

They are content to wait around and bide their time until things fall into place, but they might start their journey lacking in foresight. They may feel lost and like they have no control over what the future holds, or what their future self will be like.

The Heir of Time's quest is about learning how to use small, subtle actions to influence the timeline to their whim. They could be tasked with solving a series of long, complicated Rube Goldberg machine puzzles where small changes in the starting conditions result in wildly different end states.

I propose the name Land of Pendulums and Chrysalises. A "pendulum" is a swinging weight suspended from a pivot, as used in grandfather clocks as well as some scientific instruments.

They have a long history of use in timekeeping and mathematics, and a "double pendulum" is a common model for chaos theory, aka the "butterfly effect."

Pendulums can also be used artistically as in the "harmonograph," cousin to the spirograph, which creates complicated patterns using the motion of a pendulum. This planet would be covered in tall pendulum structures, one of which could serve as the Scratch Construct, activated by breaking its weight.

"Chrysalises" brings us back to the "butterfly effect," as a chrysalis is the dormant stage in between a caterpillar and a butterfly. Inside the chrysalis the insect breaks down its old body structure and develops its new one.

This could be a metaphor for a personal change the Heir undergoes during their quest, if it suits them. Otherwise, it could be another symbol of the passage of time and the uncertainty between the present and the future, which the Heir seeks control over.

Throughout the land the chrysalises hang suspended from the frames of the planet's towering clockwork structures, only ready to hatch once the Heir's quest has been completed.

Other potential names:

Land of Grains and Resonance -- grains refer to the grains in an hourglass, as well as to "granular detail," and to grain plants like wheat; this planet would be covered in large fields of grain which never ripen until the Heir completes their quest, separated by sandy pathways.

Resonance, specifically "sympathetic resonance," occurs when one string of an instrument is sounded and nearby strings also begin to vibrate because of shared overtone frequencies.

This could take the form of brass strings stretched taut above the fields, which are sounded by rain or gusts of wind.

Land of Cereus and Song -- A cereus is a kind of cactus which blooms only once a year, at night, and wilts by morning, symbolizing the impermenance of the present. It gets its name from the Latin term for a type of candle, and candles were historically also used as timekeeping devices.

Song is a pretty literal interpretation of the Time aspect's musical associations, but I think it would work well here, as a mysterious harmony echoing throughout the desert environment of the planet, leading the Heir to their quest.

[flowerpotmage]

The Ledan: Pt 2

Chapter One: Dragonstone

Part one here. Read this installment on AO3 here

Summary: Your House, the rulers of a small isle off of Essos, has a tradition of sending the heir to another land as a rite of passage   once they are comfortably of age. Your mother, in her time, went to   Winterfell to emissary with the Starks. Now it is your turn, and your mother has chosen your destination; King's Landing, with the House Targaryen.

Ship: Aemond Targaryen x nb!afab!Reader

CW: Microaggression, subtle transphobia? Daemon being boldly inquisitive

A/n:  If you can name the stone described in this chapter, or tell me what language the reader’s house name is taken from, you get a prize! lol. Also no Aemond this chapter, but he’ll be here in the next one! I like a slowburn, and I want the story to not only focus on the romantic plot.

Credit for linguistics here

As always, you do not have to be nonbinary to enjoy this story if you wish

---

Despite having grown up on an isle, and being fairly at ease with the small sailboats used to hop from isle to island to sandy bars found only at low tide, you decidedly did not enjoy the journey across the sea to Westeros on a true full size ship, and were glad of its nearing end. Your mother’s echoing words in your head did little to settle the unease in your gut.

“But no capital is free of its silent politics and scuttering rats. Nor is it free of pretty vipers in wait.”

A particularly ambitious splash of ocean water frees you from your concentration, and you wipe your face, spluttering lightly, as you turn from the edge and retreat to the safety of the leeward side.

“I’d thought you were seasick, my Ledan,” comes a voice approaching from near the mast. “What are ye doing above boards?”

You turn to face your guard. “Ser Aden,” you greet. “It helps to see the skyline after such a toss and turn night.”

Ser Aden was a man near ten years your senior, a guard under oath of your family for fifteen years past, and a personal favorite of your mother’s. His coal-dark beard is patchy, still silken in texture, though short and trim, and at sea he is still donned in his leather armor, the warm tone of it making his grey eyes all the more sharp and shining.

He nods, coming to lean against the railing with you. “Captain says we should make landfall at Dragonstone on the morrow. Then ‘tis but a short journey to King’s Landing. After a brief rest, should be only a week before our arrival.”

“Well, thank the Ancestors and the Others for that,” you sigh freely. “The open sea was starting to drive me mad.” You shoot a grin over at Ser Aden, who chuckles silently.

“You and I both. Come, let us get out of the Sun before midday arrives and turns us to roast meat.”

—

The next twenty four hours seems to drag, the only clue you have to exactly how imminent your arrival is coming in the form of a frenzied crew double, then triple checking, that the ship is in condition to be even seen by the two royals who will be hosting your first rest after sea.

Then, at last, you see land.

Dragonstone is just as had been described to you–a dark and rocky fortress on a dark and rocky island. Sharp imposing lines rising from craggy and rough land, like a well wrought mace resting upon a crushed enemy.

“My Ledan,” Ser Aden joined your side at the bow, much like the day before. “‘Tis time to disembark and meet the Princess and Prince.”

You nod, turning and adjusting the fabric of your overcoat. You swallow down the lump in your throat, nodding sharply once more. “Very well.”

As you reach the end of the–rather impressive–path from the beach to the castle, you spot two figures with shining white hair, clad in black, standing in wait. Beside the man are two boys, pale and dark haired, and behind the family are a small gaggle of servants and men in plate armor.

The man–Prince Daemon, you reminded yourself, looked you over with blatant curiosity. Quickly redirecting your glance, your eyes met Princess Rhaenyra, and immediately you bowed at the waist.

“Princess Rhaenyra, Prince Daemon, it is an honor to meet your Graces.” You straightened, and met her eyes again. You did not miss Prince Daemon’s raised brows and glance to the two boys at his side.

“It is an honor for my family to be chosen for the heir of Irrasser’s emissary journey,” she smile, eyes crinkling. “I remember your mother’s last visit when I was a girl at King’s Landing. My own mother carried a strong fondness for her.” Her smile turned wistful. “But come, you must be tired after your long journey. Let us welcome you into Dragonstone.”

The gaggle of servants quickly stepped in to help your own people into the castle, and you and your guard fell into step with Princess Rhaenyra and her men.

“The Lady Dail still speaks fondly of the late Queen Aemma. She was dearly sorry to hear of her passing.”

The halls inside are dark, and the steps of your group loud.

“I’m glad to hear their friendship was a lasting one. Tell me, Ledan Dail, would you care to eat? We are set to dine within an hour, if you would care to join us after seeing your rooms.”

You share a glance with Ser Aden, who nods.

“That would be excellent, your Grace,” you nod your head in deference. “I’m sure a meal at a solid table where the drinks are not at risk for rolling to the floor at any moment will be a welcome change.”

Prince Daemon chuckles at this, and Princess Rhaenyra lets out a small laugh as well. “Excellent. Our men will show you and yours to your rooms.”

Your rooms are spacious, but the closed stone walls feel foreign in their darkness. What harsh architecture, you think to yourself. I do hope King’s Landing isn’t so heavy if I’m spending years of my life there.

Servants bring a small amount of your clothes to your room, and after thanking and dismissing them, your own dressing servant sets about the business of bringing out options to dine in.

“What do you think of this place, Arla?” You ask her from your seat on the bed.

She pauses and looks at you, “It is quite… stark in comparison to home. But no less regal.”

You hum in agreement. “Very. I couldn’t have put it better myself.” You rise from the bed and approach. “Now, what options have we got to dress in for this afternoon?”

Arla helps you dress in finer cloth than your sea clothes, a black tunic of green embroidered leaves of plants from your home isle. She fixes your hair, pinning a simple jewel at the back, and helping you don a pendant–you are taken aback at the sight of it.

“This is my mother’s jewel!” You touch the pendant and look back at Arla standing over your seat. “How did this come here?”

Arla smiled, smoothing the clasp at the back of your neck. “She insisted we bring it and present it to you when we made land.”

There is a lump in your throat again as you look down at the black jewel, three crossing lines of silver moving across the cabochon set in white gold. “She does love her surprises,” you whisper, eyes warm and sight blurring.

Lunch is a warm and friendly affair, the children of Princess Rhaenyra’s first marriage are present, her sons with Daemon too young to sit at the table and eat the food served. You learn that Daemon has an additional two daughters, not present as they live with their grandmother and grandfather at Driftmark.

“A truly beautiful place,” Rhaenyra offers. “I understand that you are to sail straight to King’s Landing once you leave us, but if you can on your return voyage home, I would stop to see it.”

Conversation, inevitably, turns to your unique nature as the topic of your home is brought up.

“So, my… Ledan Dail,” Daemon begins after a comfortable lull in conversation, setting down his goblet and fixing your gaze. “Forgive the inquiry, but I understand your mother is the ruler of your home?”

“Yes, your grace.”

“And you are the heir.”

You nod, gesturing acknowledgement and encouraging him to continue with your cutlery.

“But you are meant to be neither man nor woman. I understand that some forgo their sex in pursuit of the spiritual,” he leans forward in his seat. “But if you are the heir, meant to then produce more heirs, how can you do both? Forgo your sex and then still produce?” He does not break his gaze as he takes another bite from his fork in hand.

Of course, you think wryly. The men of Westeros are intrusive just as my Par has said. You look down at your plate, selecting your words carefully.

“We do not mutilate our sex in pursuit of leaving it, your Grace, as I have heard done in other lands and faiths,” you begin, meeting his eyes as you continue, “We are considered, in my homeland, beyond our bodies regardless of the shape they take at our birth. Yes, it is related to the pursuit of the spiritual,” you acknowledge his reference to priestly castrations and other equally violent practices in lands you have not seen. “But we are not barred, especially in my House, from fulfilling our… other duties. We simply take on another side in our existence, as asked by the Other and the Ancestors.”

He leans back in his seat again. “How fascinating.” He bows his head slightly. “Thank you for enlightening me so.”

You do not miss Rhaenyra’s hard glance at his profile as she sips from her goblet.

—

“Allow me to apologize for my husband’s… inquiries yesterday,” Rhaenyra offers you as you walk with her. It is gray outside, and so you stay within the shelter of the hallways. “He is… his curiosity gets the better of him.”

You bow your head. “It is to be expected, Princess. I am a foreign thing from a foreign land. A ruling, or even future ruling, Ledan has not set foot in Westeros since the time of Aegon the Conqueror’s children, and shared memory is short. I expect to be a novelty to most, if not all.”

She inclines her head. “Tell me, Ledan, you seem to be well of age,” she looks at you, you nod. “And yet you are unbetrothed and unmarried? Do all of your people wait so long?”

You let out a gentle laugh. “No, your grace. Not all. As heir, I am not to wed until after my emissary is complete. One new duty at a time, our traditions say.”

She seems surprised. “They send you off as the sole heir with no heirs of your own? What if something were to happen at sea, or an injury or illness struck you?”

“Then they simply mourn and find a new ruler. If I were to die at sea,” you pause. “Then I was no true deserved Ledan.”

You continue in silence for a moment, footsteps echoing against stone.

“How strange we must seem to one another,” Rhaenyra’s soft voice breaks the silence. “Our land with our strict societal roles…”

“And mine with what must seem like the flaunting disregard of them,” you joke.

You both laugh. “Indeed,” says the princess, a mysterious twinkle in her eye, and your heart warms at what feels like the beginning of a friendship started by your own mothers.

Despite your short time in her home, Rhaenyra grasps your hands in farewell when it is time for you to leave.

“Know that you are welcome to visit at any time during your emissary in King’s Landing,” she repeats her offer a last time.

“Thank you, your Grace. And thank you a thousand times over once more for sending a message to my mother for me.”

Rhaenyra had offered to send a trusted messenger along with your ship's return to home, as the sailors would be unlikely to do the same job with the proper dedication. After your arrival in King’s Landing, your ship was to rest, restock, and begin the return journey, stopping at Dragonstone once more to pick up her messenger. You and your guards and servants would remain behind at your new home in King’s Landing, to await the ship’s return in three years time for your final voyage home.

“Think nothing of it,” she squeezed your hand. “I know I would want to hear from my child after such an important first journey alone, and be assured of their safety.”

You part, saying your final farewells, and board your ship for the last days of travel.

“Well,” you say to Ser Aden and Arla later. “If that is how wonderful the Princess is, I feel that we are in for a lovely three years with the rest of her family,” you grin, and toast your two most trusted.

It is after three days that you hear the call from the rigging.

“King’s Landing in sight! Make ready for the port!”

[roomchailimited]

Discovering the Diversity of North America: From Beaches to Mountains

North America, a continent renowned for its geographical and cultural diversity, offers an unparalleled array of natural wonders. From the sun-kissed beaches of California to the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies, this land is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. For travelers from Bangladesh and around the world, North America promises an adventure like no other, where every turn reveals a new facet of its beauty.

The Pacific Coast: Beaches and Beyond

Starting on the western edge of the continent, the Pacific Coastline is a stunning stretch of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. California’s famous beaches, such as Santa Monica and Malibu, offer the quintessential sun-and-surf experience. Here, the Pacific Ocean’s waves attract surfers from across the globe, while the coastal towns provide a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere. Moving north, the Oregon Coast’s dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches offer a more serene, nature-focused escape. The iconic Pacific Coast Highway, winding along the shore, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, providing breathtaking views at every turn.

The Majestic Rocky Mountains

Heading inland, the Rockies rise majestically, stretching from Canada down through the United States. This vast mountain range is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In Canada, Banff and Jasper National Parks offer pristine wilderness, with crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and towering peaks. In the United States, Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is renowned for its hiking trails and stunning vistas. Winter sports enthusiasts flock to the Rockies’ many ski resorts, such as Aspen and Whistler, which are famed for their world-class facilities and powdery snow.

The Great Plains: Endless Horizons

Between the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains lie the Great Plains, an expansive region of rolling prairies and wide-open skies. This area, often overlooked by travelers, offers a unique kind of beauty. The Badlands in South Dakota, with their striking rock formations, and the vast grasslands of Kansas provide a glimpse into the heartland of North America. The Great Plains are also rich in history, home to numerous Native American tribes and historical sites that tell the story of the continent’s early inhabitants.

The Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coast

Moving eastward, the Appalachian Mountains offer a different kind of mountain experience. Known for their lush forests and scenic trails, the Appalachians are particularly stunning in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that runs through the Appalachians, is a must-visit for any road trip enthusiast. Beyond the mountains, the Atlantic coastline boasts charming seaside towns, historic cities like Boston and Charleston, and beautiful beaches from Maine to Florida.

The Gulf Coast: A Blend of Cultures

The Gulf Coast, from Texas to Florida, offers a unique blend of American and Latin cultures, evident in its cuisine, music, and festivals. Cities like New Orleans, with its famous Mardi Gras celebrations, and Miami, with its vibrant nightlife and Cuban influence, showcase this cultural melting pot. The beaches here, such as those in the Florida Panhandle, are known for their white sands and emerald waters, providing perfect spots for relaxation and water sports.

Alaska: The Last Frontier

Finally, no exploration of North America would be complete without mentioning Alaska, often referred to as the Last Frontier. This vast, untamed wilderness is home to some of the most spectacular natural scenery on earth. From the towering peaks of Denali National Park to the glacier-carved coastlines of the Inside Passage, Alaska offers adventure at its most raw and exhilarating. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bears, moose, and whales in their natural habitats, while the Northern Lights provide a mesmerizing display in the winter skies.

In conclusion, North America’s diversity, from its sunlit beaches to its rugged mountains, makes it a dream destination for travelers seeking a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re looking to surf the Pacific waves, hike the Rocky trails, or explore the cultural heartlands, this continent has something for everyone. Embark on your North American adventure with Roomchai Limited, ensuring a seamless, personalized, and unforgettable journey through this land of wonders.

[dsandrvk]

Monday, February 19 - Winter Island and Petermann Island

Today we finally experienced the Antarctic weather we had expected all week. It started cloudy and gloomy, then turned snowy and windy. But it was still a wonderful day.

We began at the furthest south point of our trip - the Argentinian Islands, which are a group of relatively flat islands separated by narrow passages often clogged with ice. We were able to take a Zodiac tour all around Winter Island because by this time of year the route is mostly clear. We began by the Vernadsky station which is the only one in Antarctica run by Ukraine. It was originally a British station and was the place where the infamous ozone hole was first discovered and subsequently monitored.

Around the time of the breakup of the Soviet Union, the Brits wanted to close this base, but current rules here do not allow someone to simply abandon a base - it has to be dismantled and removed, which can be prohibitively expensive. The Argentinians, who have the largest number of bases in this area, keep them open by using them for a few weeks every other year or so, and doing some regular maintenance like painting. So the Brits sold "Faraday" to Ukraine for one pound, it was renamed Vernadsky, and everyone won. The main change since is that Ukraine added a sauna.

We were also surprised to see a sailboat moored nearby. It seems that private boats can come to Antarctica if they are equipped for it and have the necessary paperwork. This boat was a long way from its home harbor of Antiqua.

There was an amazing amount of color in this area with red and green algae staining the snow, lichens in orange and black streaking the rocks, and mosses and a few grasses enjoying the brief Antarctic summer. Add to this the deep blue of the older ice on the bergs, and it's obvious this is more than a black and white world. And instead of mountains in this area, there were colorful cliffs of layers of snow. Breathtaking.

We saw a few penguins on one island, but there were lots of nesting Kelp Gulls here, along with terns and several fur seals. But the stars were the ice bergs and bergy bits - every one different and corrugated in different ways

During lunch we moved slightly north to our last landing, Petermann Island. Here there was a small natural narrow harbor for the Zodiacs and we disembarked onto rocks rather than a rocky or sandy shore. This harbor was used in 1909 by one of the first explorations to overwinter in this area (on purpose), and the team put a chain across the entrance to the harbor to try to keep the bergs out. It must have worked, since their ship wasn't destroyed. Today there is just a small historic emergency hut. Our paths were slushy and rutted, sometimes with a foot of slushy water on top of granular snow, but our Bogg boots were dry and best of all, warm. They are also relatively easy to clean and sanitize, a necessity in these times of Avian flu and other diseases

The island is home to breeding colonies of both Gentoo and Adelie penguins - a rarity. The Adelies were pretty much gone, except for a handful of juveniles hanging out with Antarctic Shags, and one adult bird. The Gentoos had bred later, and there were still lots of chicks of all sizes, as well as some moulting adults. Some were "swimming" across the snow, which on steep slopes looks more practical than waddling.

By now the wind had really picked up and snow was pelting everything - even the chicks with their heavy down coats were huddling together. Of course they don't have their waterproof and windproof feathers yet, so what good is insulation without a good shell over it! Towards the end of our stay on the island, while we were waiting for Zodiacs to unload so they had room to take us back, a Skua came down towards a group of chicks who immediately formed a tight "creche" - safety in numbers. There was a lot of squawking and beak pointing, and eventually the Skua gave up, probably to try again later.

The expedition team was motivated to get people on and off the island as efficiently as possible, especially since some folks passed on this last opportunity, mostly because of the weather. As soon as everyone was back on board and the Zodiacs loaded, we headed first west and then north towards the Drake Passage.

Despite the weather, we had a little end of the season celebration on the large back deck to enumerate all the polar plunges, landings, submarine rides, etc. from this season on the Venture. It was quite a list. The last picture is of our Cruise Director, Captain, and Expedition Leader, all of whom were outstanding. We have been so fortunate to have been able to get in two activities every day, and also a bonus landing the first afternoon because of our quick trip down here to avoid high seas. We have seen and experienced so much, and it is truly overwhelmingly beautiful and otherworldly here.

We have a couple of days to decompress, sleep in and try to sort out our memories. About 100 of us on the ship are continuing on, so for all of us, the adventure will continue.

[chasetriesagain]

Abandoned Island #1

I've been working on a Dungeon 23 project inspired by the Pathfinder 2e bestiaries, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and my vague knowledge of One Piece. This is the first island.

This forested isle is home to the ruins of a once grand house and a dwindling population of deer. If the party discovers this island while sailing, they gain 30 XP for a moderate accomplishment.

Point of Interest #1: The Beach

A sandy beach scattered with driftwood and crabs. If the party is shipwrecked here a pair of friendly hunters from Crosswind Isle will arrive after 48 hours.

Point of Interest #2: The Spider’s Cave Heading east along the beach leads to a small cave. Outside the cave, seagulls peck at dead fish strewn in the sand.

Inside the cave, a hunting spider waits for seagulls to venture into its lair, and beyond the spider’s web a damp passage leads further beneath the island.

A slamming door hazard sits about 15 feet into the cave.

Point of Interest #3: Abandoned Laboratory The passage leads to an abandoned lab. The equipment is ruined, but there is a crate with five potions of minor healing. An animated statue guards a passage to the surface. It will not pursue the party beyond this passage.

Point of Interest #4: The Forest

The passage opens to the forest, which was once an apple orchard. It is home to two cantankerous boars as well as a small herd of deer.

There is a hidden pit from a previous hunt as well as an old camp with a hidden quiver of arrows.

Point of Interest #5: The Mausoleum

Also hidden in the forest is an ancient mausoleum. Entering the mausoleum will awaken four skeleton guards. The mausoleum contains a decorative wooden shield worth 10 gold coins.

Point of Interest #6: The Manor

The manor house is built on the highest point of the island, on a cliff overlooking the sea. The forest stretches out to the south of it.

The upper floor of the manor house has been completely destroyed by storms, and much of the ground floor is flattened under rubble. The party may enter through the windows of the moldering dining room.

In the kitchen, an animated silverware swarm and a very agitated animated broom will attack anyone who enters.

A butler’s pantry leads to a staircase descending into a basement. Careful listeners may hear whispers from below.

Point of Interest #7: The Hidden Hall

A long hall built directly into the cliffside stretches beneath the footprint of the manor. On the north side of the hall, broken windows look out onto the waves just 20 feet below.

Two curious hanivers (gremlins) have found their way into this hall and are just about to wake up a suit of animated armor when the party arrives. The hanivers will either stick around to play pranks on the party or flee.

The animated armor holds a key to a door at the end of the hall, which leads down to a hidden boathouse and a near-derelict sailing ship.

The ship is sturdy enough to sail for three days under trained guidance, but after three days it will need skilled repairs, drifting at the mercy of the wind and waves for another four days before finally sinking. Finding the ship is a major accomplishment worth 80 XP.

[limberlost]

Dream journal series: 2022

8/1/22 I’m in a house with many doors, floors, passages. A brain-like labyrinth. I’m waiting to see my therapist but I also keep moving through the house, leaving my things behind and then struggling to find them - like my work computer. I pick up a beautiful polished stone. There are children playing, my friend Sandy is there and one brave, tall girl is hers. She asks for a boost to climb up the wall of shelves and I lift her high. I stay to watch and catch her when she falls - she trusts I’m there to catch her and lets herself fall back. We’re playing records and I’m dancing - I say to a woman, let’s just dance! It doesn’t matter how we look. I want to tell her it’s just about joy. I try to return the stone to where I found it. I’m travelling through passages - I run into Joanna Lumley who is guarding a door and we give each other a fright. She lets me in - I’m in a communal shower with Sandy and others, we’re trying to insert our menstrual cups but mine is far too big. I go through the passageways to a medical section and ask a nurse to exchange it - she does and is so kind. I go back and they are all ready and dressed in beautiful, semitransparent black lace minidresses that someone left for them. I hope someone has left one for me. Feelings: bewilderment, hope, camaraderie.

[aworldalonemp3]

i’m finally at the parker gail episode on my documentary now! rewatch and i cannot stress enough how much i need everyone to watch this show

[justanotherblonde]

blonde's sasodei week 2022 (2)

@sasodeiweek

in a very bold move, here i present ALL I'VE GOT for this fic currently... finishing my MA dissertation part one and going back to work this week has left me with less time than i'd hoped for finishing things... but!! i won't leave ya hangin'. i'll finish it before the grace period's over! luv u babes

tags: canon-verse, early partnership days, not shippy, mission fic, err also no significance or hidden easter-eggs to the OC names...

A Moment in Which: [currently untitled...]

Glittering in Deidara’s periphery, the sea. White light sparked on waves like a fistful of diamonds. Overhead, a cloudless, pale blue sky filled with noisy white birds… Sweat tracked down his sides beneath his mesh top, soaking into his waistband. The sun was hot on his bare face. The lightest breeze brushed his cheek, and that was what finally forced him to sigh.

“Are you bored, brat?” Hiruko’s gravelly voice dragged Deidara back to the task at hand. Shaking sweaty hair off his face and neck, Deidara fixed his last exploding tag in place and nimbly climbed back down to the sandy floor of the lagoon. This area was the perfect place to trap their target: crumbly stone walls formed a labyrinth of dead ends, and the loose sand was perfect for burying things…

“Not at all, Danna, mn.” Deidara grinned, once again amused at the sight of Hiruko's head peeking out from the small dune they’d erected over its body in one corners. Along the passage, Deidara had planted exploding tags and mines which would bring the rocks tumbling down on top of their target, and if that didn’t kill him, Hiruko would.

“Get out of sight,” Sasori grumbled. “Our target will be here any minute and you—”

“Yeah, yeah,” Deidara interrupted, waving his hand as he sauntered off towards the entrance of the labyrinth.

He didn’t even turn back to look at Hiruko, knowing all he’d get in return would be a scowl. They’d been partners for a grand total of three months and already the thin veneer of respect Deidara had developed for Sasori was wearing thin.

It was the little things that got to him, like Sasori’s impatience, his nitpicky perfectionism… and his utter disdain for Deidara’s art.

“My art will finish our target off,” Deidara muttered under his breath so Sasori couldn’t hear him, “and you’ll look like an idiot crawling out of the sand when it’s all over. Just you wait, mn.”

Scooping his Akatsuki cloak off the ground, he slipped it on, and spider-like, climbed into the hiding spot he’d discovered earlier. The cozy recess was five meters off the ground in the scratchy cliff-face. As stiflingly hot as his cloak was, it protected his arms and body from the rough stone, but he wouldn’t have minded a scrape or two. It was fun to pick at the scabs, a habit that immensely annoyed Sasori.

As the minutes ticked on, Deidara could sense Sasori’s impatience radiating forth from within the labyrinth. Grumpy old man. Knowing that their target was close, Deidara held his sigh in this time, but as he inhaled a lungful of sea air, he couldn’t help but dejectedly knock his head back against the wall. The sea was so close. Never once in his life had he passed this close to the sea. He’d been surrounded by jagged mountains and fathomless caves since birth… Was the water really salty? Would it be warm, or cold like a mountain lake? The waves looked exciting. Dangerous, even. But when he’d snuck a peek earlier, he’d seen people playing in the surf, riding long wooden boards.

Too bad he had work to do.

The soft shift of sand underfoot betrayed their target. A shinobi of purported prowess, too skilled to be taken out by the local police force, Kujo Kurobito was wanted in three countries for killing powerful business magnates.

Deidara could sympathise with the man’s commitment to anarchy, but Akatsuki was getting paid good money to take him out, and the way Leader-sama talked, that was all that mattered. Ah well, who was Deidara to complain? At least he got to blow shit up this time.

“Katsu,” Deidara whispered.

BO-BO-BOOM!

The walls of the labyrinth shook. Deidara shivered at the spine-jarring scrape of stone against stone as huge boulders thudded to the sandy floor. He listened hard for signs of life—would he need to use his back-up bombs?

There! Kujo Kurobito—his sleek black hair disheveled and matted with blood—crawled out from beneath a pile of loose stone, face contorted in rage.

“Did Ayamoto-san put you up to this?!” he cried angrily. He shook himself and drew a fistful of shuriken from his hip-pouch, head swinging desperately from side to side as he sought his assailants.

“Who the hell is Ayamoto-san, mn?” Deidara shouted back, counting on the bending walls of the labyrinth to obscure the source of his voice.

“Who’s there?” He still hadn’t spied Deidara, nor Hiruko up ahead. Kujo coughed, lungs full of swirling dust. Fruitlessly he waved his hand in front of his face, effectively blinded.

Perfect time for a plague of locusts: exploding clay ones, of course. Deidara flung his sculptures into the air.

“KATSU!”

The man sensed the attack far too late. He dodged one, two, three, but the fourth caught his knee; the fifth caught his right hand—bye, bye, fingers! The sixth caught his left hip…

…and the rest turned him into a bleeding lump on the sand, moaning in agony.

Hiruko’s pile of sand shuddered to life. The puppet slid forward, solemn gait and habitual scowl more than enough to express his disgust at the results before him.

“You call this ‘art’?” Sasori rumbled, looking from the writhing future corpse at his feet to Deidara, returning from his hiding spot.

Deidara stretched his arms up to the sky, dropped his hands on top of his head, and shrugged. “Not my best work, I’ll admit it, mn.”

“Tch.” Hiruko’s tail flashed, stabbing the man in the chest and delivering poison directly to a failing heart. Kujo died in an instant. “Sloppy. Wasteful.”

“But we got him, Danna,” Deidara reasoned, trying not to pout. Would it kill Sasori-danna to at the very least acknowledge that the trap had worked? If they’d done it Sasori’s way, the man would most certainly have escaped. The databook said he was a strong fighter, proficient with weapons up close and at mid-range. Catching him off-guard with explosives had worked.

Sasori used his scorpion tail to lift Kujo onto Hiruko’s back, and then set off towards town without a word.

Deidara dropped his hands to his sides in disappointment and jogged after him.

“Do you even need me to come with you to collect the bounty?” Deidara asked when they reached the mouth of the labyrinth, trying so so so hard not to whine. He cast a glance over his shoulder at the sea. It was calling him. “Maybe I could—”

“Go,” Hiruko growled. “I’ll meet you at the beach when I’m done.”

Shocked, Deidara stopped in his tracks, blinking stupidly.

“Wh-what?”

Hiruko stopped and eyed him sideways.

“You’ve been staring at it all day. Go… go… have… do… whatever… people do. At the beach.” That was supposed to have sounded a bit more encouraging, but apparently it didn’t matter:

Deidara whooped with joy. He jumped and punched the air, then set off at a run, spinning at the last minute to shout:

“THANK YOU!”

Inside Hiruko, Sasori shook his head. “Hard to believe someone actually managed to teach that brat some manners…” he mumbled to himself.

[aiweirdness]

How to begin a novel

Last year for National Novel Writing Month I trained a neural net called torch-rnn on 10,096 unique ways to begin a novel. It came up with some intriguing possibilities, my personal favorite being “I am forced to write to my neighbors about the beast.” But many of its sentences used made-up words, or had such weird grammar that they were difficult to read, or meandered too erratically. (“The first day of the world was born in the year 1985, in an old side of the world, and the air of the old sky of lemon and waves and berries.”) The neural net was struggling to write more than a few words at a time.

This year, I decided to revisit this dataset with a larger, more-powerful neural net called GPT-2. Unlike most of the neural nets that came earlier, GPT-2 can write entire essays with readable sentences that stay mostly on topic (even if it has a tendency to lose its train of thought or get very weird). I trained the largest size that was easily fine-tunable via GPT-2-simple, the 355M size of GPT-2. Would a more-powerful neural net produce better first lines?

One of the parameters I can tweak when I’m getting a trained neural net to generate text is temperature - this controls whether the neural net chooses the most likely next bit of text as it writes, or whether it’s permitted to use its less-likely predictions. At a default of 0.7, a relatively conservative temperature, the neural net’s first lines not only make grammatical sense, but they even have the rhythm of a novel’s first line. This is DRAMATICALLY better than torch-rnn did.

I am, or was.

At the mid-day meal the sun began to set and the quiet dragged on.

There was once a man who lived for a very long time; perhaps three thousand years, or perhaps a thousand million years, maybe a trillion or so, depending on how the scientists look at it.

He had the heart of a lion, and the fangs of a man-eater.

"I am Eilie, and I am here to kill the world."

The old woman was sitting on a rock near the sea, smoking a pipe.

I have just been informed, that the debate over the question 'is it right or wrong to have immortal souls' has been finally brought to a conclusion.

When I was a boy, I was fond of the story of the pirate god.

He had a strange name, and he was a very big boy indeed.

The purple-haired woman came to the clearing in the plain, and without looking up from her book, said, "It's too late to be thinking about baby names."

The village of Pembrokeshire, in the county of Mersey, lies on a wide, happy plain, which, in a few years, was to become known as the "Land of the Endless Mountains."

I don’t think the neural net plagiarized any of these? They are so good that I’m suspicious. But others of the neural net’s lines are even weirder, yet in an effective way that opens with an intriguing premise.

The moon had gone out.

I was playing with my dog, Mark the brown Labrador, and I had forgotten that I was also playing with a dead man.

The black stone was aching from the rain.

The short, dirty, and dirty-looking ship that weighed three tons and was three feet in diameter landed on a desolate and green plain.

How many times have I had the misfortune to die?

The first black dog in the park had been captured alive.

Behold the Sky Rabbits!

In the belly of the great beast that was the bovine Aurore there lived, upon the right hand of the throne, the Empress Penelope; and she had, as it were, a heart of gold.

The moon stood on its own two feet.

The reeking maw of the blood-drunk ship, the enemy's flagship, was silent and empty.

The first day I met my future self, I was aboard the old dirigible that lay in wait for me on the far side of the moon.

The child of two cats, and a tiger, a clown, a horse, a bird, a ship, and a dragon, stood on either side of the threshold of the Gatehouse, watching the throng of travelers who came in from all around the world, before he had any idea what was going on.

I think it’s probably doing this accidentally, stringing likely words and phrases together without understanding what any of them really mean. It’s not that it’s good at science fiction or magical realism; it’s that it’s trying and failing to predict what would have fit in with the usual human-written stuff. Some of the neural net’s first lines really betray its lack of the understanding of the laws of physics. It really likes to describe the weather, but it doesn’t really understand how weather works. Or other things, really.

The moon was low in the sky, as though it had been shipped in from the farthest reaches of the solar system.

The first star I saw was a blue one, which became a scarlet one, and then a gold one, and green, and finally a yellow one, which for some years afterwards seemed to be an ebony one, or even a bubbling mass.

The sun rose slowly, like a mighty black cat, and then sank into a state of deep sleep.

The sea of stars was filled with the serenity of a million little birds.

The great blue field was all white, swept away by the blue-gold breeze that blew from the south.

The sky was cold and dark, and the cold wind, if it had not been for the clouds, would have lashed the children to the roof of the house.

The morning sun was shining brightly, but the sky was grey and the clouds aching.

The night that he finally made up his mind to kill the dog, the man was walking home from the store with his wife and child in the back seat.

Arthur the lion had been pretty much extinct for some time, until the time when he was petted by Abernathy the old woman, and her son, Mr. Popp.

One of the disadvantages of having a neural net that can string together a grammatical sentence is that its sentences now can begin to be terrible in a more-human sense, rather than merely incomprehensible. It ventures into the realm of the awful simile, or the mindnumbingly repetitive, and it makes a decent stab at the 19th century style of bombastic wordiness. I selected the examples above for uncomprehending brilliance but the utter tediousness below is more the norm.

The whites of my eyes shimmered, as if my mind were dancing.

I once went to a party where the dress code was as strict as a chicken coop with no leggings and no boots.

A black cloud drifted by, a mottled mass of hydrogen, a black cloud of hydrogen, with the definite characteristic of being black.

I say I am at sea, because I am standing upon the ocean, and look out across the barren, vast throng of the sea.

It is, of course, a trifling matter in the ordinary course of things, if a certain writer were to write a novel, which is a book of stories, which is a book of characters, wherein every detail of the story is stated, together with a brief description of the theme which it concerns.

There was a boy with blue eyes, with sandy hair and blue eyes that looked at all times like he had been pushed through a million compartments.

The Sun, with its rolling shaft of bright light, the brilliant blue of the distant golden sun, and the red glow of its waning corona, was shining.

The man who was not Jack the Ripper had been promoted four times in the last two years.

Felix the Paw was sitting at the table of his favorite restaurant, the "Bordeaux" in the town of Bordeaux, when his father, Cincinnata, came in to say good-by to the restaurant.

It, sir, gives me the greatest pleasure to hear that the Court be not too long in passing away: but that I may have leisure to prepare a new work for the publication of my friend and colleague, the renowned Epistemology, which is now finished; and in which I shall endeavour to show, that this very point is of the highest importance in the subject of the philosophy which I am about to treat of.

It was a rainy, drizzling day in the summer of 1869 and the people of New York, who had become accustomed to the warm, kissable air of the city, were having another bad one.

Repetitiveness is also common, especially at this conservative temperature setting. Once the neural net gets itself into a repetitive state, it doesn’t seem to rescue itself - it’s a problem that people have noticed in several versions of this algorithm. (It doesn’t help that I forgot to scrub the “title” that someone submitted to the dataset that consists of the word “sand” repeated 2,000 times)

The sky was blue and the stars were blue and the sun was blue and the water was blue and the clouds were blue and the blue sky was like a piece of glass.

At the end of the world, where the tides burst upon the drowned, there exists a land of dragons, of dragons, which is the land of the dragons.

It's the end of the world, it's the end of the world, it's the end of the world, it's the end of the world, it's the end of the world, you're dead.

There was once a land of sand, and sand, sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand sand

Increasing the temperature of the sampling would help the repetitiveness problem, in theory, letting the neural net venture into more interesting territory. But at a temperature of 1.0 the text tends to venture out of everyday surrealism and into wordy yet distractible incomprehensibility.

The praying mules on the top of the hills sounded the final klaxon, lifting their spiked front hoofs as they crept the last few feet of desert landscape past the crest of the enormous swathe of prehistoric sand.

In the glen of the Loch is a ladder that winds way up through a passage to a ledge with soft, moss-laden environmental standards.

Someone whipped a dead squash gibbet across the room, like some formidable war lord unleashing a heavy hunk of silver at home.

One blue eyed child stood up and cried out: "Douay, saurines, my Uncle – Fanny Pemble the loader!"

Jud - an elderly despot, or queen in emopheles, was sitting across the table from the king, looking very thoughtfully into the perplexions of the proceedings.

Oh, you're a coward little fool, as if you couldn't bear to leer at a Prunker or white-clad bodyguard quickly emerging from a shady, storm-damaged area of the city.

Hanging presently in his little bell-bottomed chamber on the landing-house, early in the morning, the iron traveler sat on a broad-blonde sandbricksannel blanket outside the gate of a vast and ancient island.

Long, glowing tongues trailed from your mouth as you listened to what was being said across this kingdom of ours, but growing a little more somber since the week that caused us to proclaim general war.

The night I first met Winnie the Pooh, I had sat in the Tasting-House and heard the Chef unpack the last of the poison upon his quiet dinnertable.

There is, of course, no perfect setting at which the neural net churns out sensible yet non-repetitive first lines. There are just varying shades of general awfulness, interspersed with accidental brilliance.

No matter how much you’re struggling with your novel, at least you can take comfort in the fact that AI is struggling even more.

I generated all the neural net sentences above using a generic “It” as the prompt that the neural net had to build on (it would usually go on to generate another 20-30 sentences at a time). But although the sentences are independent in my training data, GPT-2 is used to large blocks of text that go together. The result is if I prompt it instead with, say, a line from Harry Potter fanfic, the neural net will tend to stick with that vein for a while. I've included a few examples as bonus content for subscribers.

Update: I now have a few thousand unfiltered examples of neural net-generated first lines at the GitHub repository where I have the original crowdsourced dataset. Themes include: Harry Potter, Victorian, My Little Pony, and Ancient Gods.

My book on AI is out, and, you can now get it any of these several ways! Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Indiebound - Tattered Cover - Powell’s

[night-unfurls-its-splendour]

The Critique of Manners Part V

~Or~

An Attempt at an Objective Review of Emma (2009)... VOLUME ONE

Yeah, that's right. You read it correctly. This long awaited review is gonna be a TWO PARTER because, yes, I have that much to say about this version. For context, all my previous reviews have been upwards of four, maybe five thousand words. this one, this present paragraph excluded is 7,806 words. Fortunately it's all written (finally) so you won't have to wait an interminably long period of time between parts one and two. maybe a week. Part One will explore the Introduction, Cast and Characterization, and Sets and Surroundings.

1996 brought us a bright and fun feature film interpretation of Jane Austen’s “Emma”, written/directed by Douglas McGrath and starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeremy Northam; that appealed to the 90’s romantic.

In December of the same year (February of 1997 in the US) the more sober and “technically accurate” (for why that’s in quotations, read my review) Kate Beckinsale/Mark Strong adaptation appeared from ITV and Andrew Davies, and calmed the purists who burst into flames at the Hollywood travesty that they dared to christen “Emma”.

We’ve already gone over my feelings on both of these versions (my mixed stance on the chick-flick that was McGrath’s offering, and my dislike for the rather washed-out and subtly questionable choices of Andrew Davies’ interpretation) and for thirteen years these were the choices (the stagey 1972 version falling somewhat by the wayside, as these versions tend to do.)

And then, in 2009 a new and somewhat divisive version was produced by the BBC

Directed by Jim O’Hanlon and written by Sandy Welch, it was a vibrant 4 part mini-series which starred uniformly inspired casting choices and made Jane Austen, her work and her wit, more accessible than ever to laymen such as myself. Whether that approach is an advantage or a drawback is, of course, entirely up to the individual.

Fascinatingly this version has the same run-time as the 1972 6 Part Serial starring Doran Godwin (read my review here), and yet somehow feels like it manages to give so much more depth to the story while also fitting in all the major plot points and then some.

I’ve already admitted a particular partiality for this version. It was my first brush with Austen, when my sister convinced me to watch the last episode with her on its debut run on PBS Masterpiece. It ignited my interest in Jane Austen and because of that, for a long time my only stance on it was that this was the only really good version and that all others were just varying degrees of bad or not-as-good-as-this.

The bones of this review, like those of my reviews of both of the 1996 versions, were written some six years ago and can actually be read on IMDb if you really want to do a “then vs now” comparison of my style of critique. All of my reviews from that time (they were all written very close together) were very defensive of this version and very reactionary to criticisms of it that compared it to (mostly) the ITV version, which they viewed as infinitely superior.

Having now gone a little over ten years as the “most recent adaptation”, the 2009 version is a darling of Austen Blogs and tumblrinas alike. It’s grown into its own a bit more, so such reactions and defenses are, generally, unnecessary.

This is the last of my Emma reviews written and in my course of watching and re-watching various versions I kept assiduously away from watching this version (which would have demolished my attempts to come to this set of reviews with a cleaner slate than my first attempts at critique) even when my longing for Johnny Lee Miller’s playfulness and Romola Garai’s emotion were strongest following my Emma ‘97 re-watch. I fortified myself by re-reading passages of the book and came to my re-watch of this version having not watched it for at least six months and with a fresher, hopefully, more measured perspective.

As always I’ll be covering the cast and overall handling of the script in comparison with what I know from reading the book, commenting on the suitability of the sets and houses, and airing my thoughts on the accuracy and appeal of the costumes (I have a lot to say). I may even critique some manners.

So with that rather lengthy forward out of the way, let’s dive in.

Cast & Characterization

This time I think I will start with Knightley, and end with Emma, with the side-characters filling the intervening space. Also I’ll just start by saying I love almost all of the casting choices in this adaptation so just be ready for that.

Jonny Lee Miller really is the Knightley for me. He portrayed an ideal balance of Mr. Knightley’s qualities. I know that for some people the teasing and scolding friendship that Emma and Knightley have will never quite escape the brother-sister comparison. Such people may view it as a block for Knightley’s seeming like a viable romantic lead; but I personally think Miller really captures that dynamic while still showing the subtle progression of Knightley’s feelings for Emma.

Mr. Knightly is one of my favorite Austen heroes (Second only to Col. Brandon), and maybe Miller’s portrayal colored my reading of Knightley forever, but I find that, usually, when something that strikes me as better, or more accurate to my reading comes along, it tends to come through when I re-read, and that has not yet happened for Mr. Knightley.

What I really think is great about the 2009 interpretation of Mr. Knightley is what an easy and comforting presence he is, without being apologetic when he scolds Emma (more on this later). I think this is communicated especially well by how often we are actually shown Mr. Knightley taking his almost-daily walks to Hartfield, how smoothly he comes and goes, and how happy Emma is every time she sees him coming up the path (usually, just at the perfect moment when she needs something to put her back to rights.)

Mr. Knightley is Emma’s comfort object, and that is just part of a bigger theme of warmth and friendship that makes this version my favorite. They weren’t awfully subtle about it though. Check out the Latin motto over Knightley’s head here in the entrance to Donwell: “SED SEMPER AMICO” or “Always, for a friend”.

At the time there were some that complained about how Jonny Lee Miller looked too young to be Mr. Knightley (an argument that, quite unjustly, is also presently being leveled at Johnny Flynn), I would like to remind everyone that Mr. Knightley is but seven or eight and thirty – the same age as Miller when he played the part in 2009, and Flynn, at 36 (I believe) wasn’t too far wide of the mark.

This is by far my favorite representation of Mrs. Weston (and not just because we worship at the altar of Johdi May in this house). They go to great lengths to show exactly what Miss Taylor’s relationship with Emma is like – not only how emotionally essential she is as Emma’s companion and friend, but also her failure to exercise authority, which is key to understanding Emma’s character and her choices throughout the story. Emma’s less kind statements are reprimanded only with a gentle “Emma!” and a knowing smile, and little more: the bare minimum, and rather more complacent than correcting when dealing with a willful teenager.

This is the only adaptation with time enough to give Mrs. Weston’s conversation with Mr. Knightley about Emma its own scene, and the script is so damn close to verbatim I can’t help visualizing this scene every time I read the book.

But even with her knowing smiles and lack of discipline with Emma, May still does an excellent job bringing out, not just her character’s deficiencies as an authority figure, but her sensitivity and tender affection as a friend.

Another great thing about Johdi May as Mrs. Weston is her adorable dynamic with Mr. Weston (Robert Bathurst).

Words can’t express my delight with Robert Bathurst in this series. His heart-felt performance brings such a wonderful life to this character. In particular his desperate longing to have a closer relationship to his son – his pride when Frank is admired—and his pain when Frank disappoints—are so rich, and I almost want to kick Frank on behalf of his father even more than on Jane’s account. It’s really it’s a tough call which Mr. Weston I prefer between Bathurst’s performance and Rupert Graves’s in the 2020 film.

Louise Dylan as Harriet Smith *Chef Kiss*: she’s such a delight and I think she’s the most accurate (probably?) Harriet? She’s got a healthy enough figure to be called “plump” while still fitting modern tastes of what is “pretty”. She’s fair without looking deathly pale, and sweet and a bit slow without being portrayed as an utter lack-wit (I mean, there’s “ship-court” but we’ll talk about that later.)

In the scene where she reveals to Emma that it’s Mr. Knightley she believes herself in love with (not Frank Churchill) she says this all to a horrified Emma and it’s got some great horror movie style camera work and music, similar to the 2020 version, but Dylan plays it with perfect unknowing sweetness and innocence, which I think the 2020 version didn’t quite capture as well.

I think this is maybe the most screen time any Robert Martin has had and, since we love Mr. Robert Martin, that can only be a good thing. I am so glad that we actually get to see him coming to Mr. Knightley about his intentions to marry. I like how it’s set up, I like how they use implication, and I also think the actor, Jefferson Hall, gives a really excellent, emotive performance as a character who with so few lines.

Like with Alastair Petrie before him, we get to fall in love with Hall’s Mr. Martin and his long-suffering self.

Laura Pyper may not be as fair as some other Jane Fairfaxes and her singing isn’t a patch on Olivia Williams’ but I find her the most compelling in the role. She’s physically less imposing than Olivia Williams or Polly Walker and I think that lends greatly to the character, but what she really captures (and emotion is such a big theme in this adaptation) is fatigue. Not just frustration, but outright distress just barely being concealed under the surface. She’s still delivers Jane’s pointed returns to Frank’s jabs with fortitude and feeling, but I really feel how tired she is.

Rupert Evans played a Frank Churchill that is both agreeable and deeply frustrating– he had charisma that drew me in as a viewer, but not enough to excuse Frank’s behavior (unlike, for instance, Ewan McGregor). This is the only adaptation that really has enough time to show all the faces of Frank’s character, which is crucial to Emma’s development since Frank is her mirror in so many ways. Correspondingly to Laura Pyper’s barely concealed agitation, Evans’ Frank has a similar, seething frustration, which takes the Austen layman by surprise when it starts to bubble to the surface in the Strawberry Picking sequence in Episode 4.

I love Blake Ritson, but I do not care for how Mr. Elton was portrayed in this version. From the minute he slinked onto the screen, you could just tell, which I think is slightly in contrast to the book where he’s not quite so slimy. I think it was just a little bit lacking in subtlety.

Along with that, this script gives the audience some satisfaction in sort of punishing Mr. Elton for his choice of wife – but that, also, I think is in opposition to the book where Mr. Elton is not only satisfied with his bride, but Austen goes so far as to write about Emma’s disgust in that he seems positively proudof his wife. This just goes to show that the Eltons are as bad as each other and a weird kind of power couple in that way (the 72 version actually captured this pretty well in spite of the odd Mrs. Elton’s-got-a-thing-for-Knightley runner). But in the 2009 version, Elton (while still of one mind with his wife) is made a literal ass of as he leads his wife’s donkey to Donwell.

As amusing as this absurdist (and again, not subtle) symbolism? Visual humor? is, I think the interpretation of having Mrs. Elton actually ride a Donkey was, perhaps, a bridge too far. Mrs. Elton of the book does make the suggestion of using donkeys but not in the context of riding on their backs and I can’t blame anyone for putting this on their “WTF Moments in Austen Adaptations” list. It’s on mine.

Speaking of Mrs. Augusta Elton (nee Hawkins), let’s talk about my profound and enduring love of Christina Cole as the consummate odious woman of 00’s British TV. I mean I’m sure she must have gotten tired of being typecast like this (Blanche Ingram etc.) after her wonderful performance as the sweet Nora in He Knew He Was Right, but she’s just so good at being nasty. Cole’s Mrs. Elton is definitely up there in my ranking of favorites (although Tanya Reynolds gives her a run for her money) riding the balance between being fabulously gauche and supremely punchable.

Like with so many other characters in this adaptation John and Isabella Knightley (Dan Fredenburgh and Poppy Miller) are not just given their due diligence (in some they hardly even get to show their faces) but they are expanded as characters – this is used mainly for exposition but it works. It helps give context to viewers who are unfamiliar with the story, makes the John Knightleys more than just side-characters, and emphasizes the family element. Fredenburgh hits many of the same notes as Guy Henry did in the 1997 version, striking the perfect balance between caustic wit and cantankerous jabs. I’d put his grumbling speech in the carriage at Christmas right up there with Henry’s for natural flow.

Guys. Guys. Guys.

I liked Michael Gambon as Mr. Woodhouse, Emma’s charming (if ridiculous) hypochondriac father – let me just clarify: I NEVER like Michael Gambon in ANYTHING (except as Squire Hamley in Wives and Daughters… and, okay, also in Cranford. BUT OTHER THAN THAT—he was a terrible Dumbledore.) And you know between Squire Hamley and Mr. Woodhouse maybe we’ve hit on exactly what Gambon’s element is – utterly insufferable but somehow endearing.

The 2009 interpretation brings a new layer of depth to Mr. Woodhouse. While other versions play him for straight comedy (None more so than 1972 and 2020), Gambon somehow makes you understand the way Mr. Woodhouse thinks. He makes you feel his constant anxiety, and in so doing makes the character deeply sympathetic while still amusing and kind of annoying. He makes Mr. Woodhouse very human. He even manages to inject the idea of Mr. Woodhouse having a sense of humor himself. Although Bernard Hepton staring at Mrs. Elton in bewilderment has its own merit, Gambon’s Mr. Woodhouse actually smiles to himself after getting off a zinger about the Highbury folk being a quiet set.

And while we’re on the subject of humanizing comedic characters with emotional cores that tend to get glossed over, it’s time for Part 2 of “Why Miss Bates is the Most Fucking Devastating Character in Jane Austen and Why We Should do Her More Justice”.

Now since I was so very longwinded on this subject, which I have so many feelings about, in my deep-dive into the financial situations of the denizens of Highbury in my 2020 review, I shall endeavor to be snappy with this.

"Miss Bates, decieved by the mock ceremony of her manner, did not immediately catch her meaning; but when it burst upon her, it could not anger, though a slight blush showed that it could pain her." --Emma, Chapter 43

Tamsin Greig was amazing as Miss Bates.

Greig displayed a different visual model than Sophie Thompson or Prunella Scales, though she excelled at wittering on without a thought. But, as I’ve expressed before – If being chatty is your only requirement for a good Miss Bates, Get. Thee. Hence. From. My. House.

One of the most important things Jane Austen did as an authoress was address the limitations of women (Especially middle-class women) in her time period. Miss Bates is one of the deepest dives into that representation. She’s not just some caricature of a maiden aunt, and to portray her as such is not only wrong, it’s insulting. The Director and writer (Jim O’Hanlon and Sandy Welch) chose to portray Miss Bates as far more than just comic relief. Like Mr. Woodhouse, they highlighted her humanity. Her distress is apparent not just when Emma openly insults her, but all throughout the story. From the opening that SHOWS you exactly what her situation is, to her nervous chatting and exposition; even when Jane is present, she still reads her letters out loud to guests because this is her routine. This is all she knows to do. It makes the impact of Box Hill, that much more poignant. And with all of that, she’s still funny.

Ok guys. It’s time to talk about Romola Garai.

Garai is maybe the most polarizing Emma ever? Which makes a certain ironic sense to me, since Emma is maybe Austen’s most polarizing work?

Personally, I love her. Yes, I acknowledge that there is a LOT wrong with her body language, but we’ll touch on that later.

I think Romola Garai was a fantastic Emma. I think she succeeded where everyone before her kind of faltered – she made Emma spiritedand likeable in spite of her faults. And I think Emma should be likable in some ways. Clearly Austen underestimated how many of her readers—present and future—would relate to Emma, as it remains one of her best loved and most commonly adapted works. Whether you think Emma should be an intentional MegaBitch™, or just forehead-slappinlgy ignorant, her character has a definite gravitational pull, and this was something the makers of the series in particular wanted to capture: Emma’s charisma, and Romola Garai has that in spades. Her incredible energy helps one to understand why everyone loves Emma so much, beyond her just being the first woman in the neighborhood.

I love Garai’s energy and I love how when she fumes about Mrs. Elton, they wrote it so that she doesn’t just have an internal monologue, but that she rants out loud, to herself. This kind of captures Austen’s narrative in a way voice-over monologue just doesn’t. I just wish they’d included the line

“The Kindness and protection of Mrs. Elton!—‘Jane Fairfax’ and ‘Jane Fairfax.’ Heavens! Let me not suppose she goes about Emma Woodhouse-ing me!—But upon my honour, there seem no limits to the licentiousness of that woman’s tongue!”

Don’t tell me you don’t read that in Romola Garai’s voice.

I like the continuity of Emma’s deficiencies in this version (beyond her over-confidence). I like that the fabricated “Emma at 16” sequence has her showing off her determination to beat Jane at accomplishments by waving Milton in Knightley’s face, and that at 21, the next time she gets it into her head to be more accomplished (for Harriet’s benefit, this time) she’s STILL stuck on Milton.

The bookmark is even in the same place! This made me feel SEEN because this is exactly what happened to me when I tried reading Jane Eyre for the first time. This is as nod to Emma’s easily distracted nature and why she’s not as accomplished as Jane, and why her painting is only “pretty good”. She just can’t start a thing and finish it, and as someone with the same problem (which is why my tumblr is full of reviews for period dramas, with pretentions to wit, instead of the 50 Reylo fanarts I’ve planned but never drawn.)

Sets & Surroundings

Well here we are again at your favorite part and mine (idk if you do care or not, this is my favorite part) the deep dive into the manor houses used!

The unfortunately named Squerryes Court in Kent played the role of Hartfield and you guys have probably guessed that this is my favorite Hartfield. It is. (Although one cheeky thing I noticed is, if you look close at that window up front there, the little circular one? That’s the window in Harriet’s bedroom, which is presumably supposed to be at Mrs. Goddard’s school.)

Now, as there’s a whole featurette on the 2009 version about the houses and sets I know more about the choices and decisions that went into these houses than any of the other versions I’ve talked about.

Specifically, I think Squerryes Court is the best Hartfield because first of all it’s a very fine house BUT it’s not ginormous. Perhaps its greatest advantage though was the level of freedom the set designers were given with it. They were, for instance, allowed to re-paper certain rooms and change the curtains and furnishings and, as such, it feels more like a home than any other house I’ve seen used in a period drama. They even, thoughtfully, went for decorations and styles that would be a bit dated in Emma’s adulthood. These are her mother’s curtains and papers, and the Woodhouses, so reticent to change, haven’t updated them. This silent hint at Emma’s mother gives the interiors such a sentimental hominess, it’s hard not to feel comfortable just watching the show.

They also went for bright, warm colors because, this version, like Autumn de Wilde’s, does not run from color, and in the 2009 version, the bright, popping colors are even more far-reaching. There are golds and emeralds in the sceneries, as opposed to the almost sterile-feeling pastels in the De Wilde’s version. An incredible amount of care and thought went into the atmosphere of these sets and I think that’s just wonderful. (I am not saying that care and thought weren’t put into de Wilde’s version, I just think that the family aspect and concept of hominess was given more of an emphasis in O’Hanlon’s interpretation.)

An old standby in period dramas at this point, Losely Park was used for Donwell Abbey. While I totally understand the contrast to the warm, feminine atmosphere of Hartfield that they were going for in this choice, an Elizabethan manor with all the characteristic straight lines and dark colors of that period of architecture… well perhaps you’ve already spotted the problem with this choice for Donwell Abbey.

It isn’t an Abbey. Not by any meaning of the word. While certainly larger than Hartfield, and totally unlike it, Losely Park is not low or sheltered and it’s really not big enough.

I’m pleased to report that I may have solved a great mystery of the 2009 version – the filming location for Randalls.

I think I may say with some relative confidence that Stockett’s Manor in Oxted was used for Randalls in this version. Stockett’s manor is not creditedas the filming location for Randalls (it iscredited as the ballroom for The Crown Inn – ironic, since the ball is held at the Crown because Randalls has no room big enough for it) so I looked it up at historicengland.org.uk and found the picture listed there identical to the house used for Randalls (Oust House and all) so mystery solved?

I love this house as Randalls. This is believable for Mr. Weston’s small estate. And that’s important for this version, because the snow panic in this version is here in full.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Catch part 2 here

[warriorsofsplatsville]

The city was much bigger than Mirage anticipated. It was packed with buildings standing side to side and people running around the plaza. They were definitely a fish out of water here, as evidenced by the stares they received as they traversed the town.  

Buddy popped out of the hood of their cloak and tugged on one of their tentacles. 

“Hungry again? You just ate the last of the snacks I packed for the voyage. Let’s see if we can find a vendor around here with something relatively cheap.”

Sitting in a corner, in the shade, an Octoling with orange tentacles was flipping through some cards in her hands.

“Could you let me say anyth-”

“Here we goo!!” she shuffled through the cards excitedly. Mirage rolled their eyes and sighed, crossing their arms and watching her hands closely. 

“I see...I see....oh my...” her hand flew over her mouth dramatically, and she began to circle around them. “I see...danger! Evils! A future most dire, filled with peril and heartbreak!”

“Oh, how upsetting...I’ll be going.” Mirage waved their wand and began to trudge away.

“Uh, w-wait! But I can perform a spell to make it so you have better luck in your future! Only 10000G!!”

“Absolutely not. I can handle any hardships that plague me just fine. Leave me alone.”

She ran in front of them, stopping them from leaving. “W-wait! There’s nothing else you want? I have plenty of other services, you know, and they’re not pricey at all...”

Just then, they felt one of their pockets get lighter. They pull their worn and busted stringer out and aimed it at her.

“The jig’s up. I already know what you’re trying to do. If you’re not scamming me, you’re trying to pickpocket me. Trust me, I am the last person you want to be messing with.”

She laughed nervously, hands behind her back. “Plat, now!!’

She threw Mirage’s wallet in the air, and from one of the balconies, another Octoling zoomed in the air and snatched, landing on the opposing side.

“Got it! Scram, Sandy!” he shouted, running down the staircase with it. 

“You-!!” Mirage’s brow furrowed, and they began to chase after the second Octoling through the crowded streets.

Dodging past cephalopods and jellyfish, as well as goldfish, they keep on the heels of Plat. “Get back here!”

He looked behind him to see Mirage keeping up. “H-Hey! No hard feelings, yeah? We gotta survive out here too!”

“You would’ve survived if you hadn’t picked on the wrong Inkling!” they hissed, and they chucked something at Plat.

“Wah??” he exclaimed as a smallfry latched onto his face, attacking him. “Get this thing off of me!!”

In the scramble, he accidentally let go of the wallet, Mirage picking it up. They make two clicks with their mouth and the smallfy returned to them, jumping into their backpack. 

Sandy accidentally bumped into Mirage, making them drop the wallet once more. It tumbled onto the ground. 

The three make eye contact before diving toward it.

The wallet was shoved over the edge, into the runoff passage. They watched in horror as the wallet floated down the stream, and past the grate. 

Sandy and Plat slowly stood, up, backing away from the seething Mirage.

“Where do you two think you’re running off to?!” they yelled, standing back up and grabbing them by the neck of their shirts, yanking them back towards them. “Because of your idiotic stunt, I now have NO money to feed Buddy with! Now its gonna starve! And you don’t have money either! No one wins here! Are you proud of yourselves?!”

The two gulped, darting their eyes to look at each other. “Gee, we didn’t realize that money was for taking care of the little guy...” Sandy sighed. “I feel real awful now...”

“We also hafta feed ourselves, you know. No hard feelings...” Plat shrunk into his jacket. 

Mirage bit their lip. They sighed as they release their hold on them. “Whatever. Can’t do anything about it now. Guess I’ll have to start earning some.”

“There’s a Salmon Run shop near the lobby...!” Sandy suggested, but they tense up at the words. “No. What would Buddy think if I did that...”

“Um...there’s also turf wars we can play, they give you some cash at the end of every battle.” Plat jabbed his thumb in the direction of the lobby.

Mirage closed their eyes. “It’ll have to do. Without money, I can’t even pay for a train ticket. So I’m stuck here.” They look around the city. “I don’t even know where we could stay...”

“Oh! You could stay at our place! We have a little house off main street that we rent together!” Sandy placed a hand on Plat’s shoulder. 

“I don’t know if staying with the thieves that lost all my money is the best idea...” they grumbled. 

“No! We promise to not cause you anymore problems! Consider this an apology!” Plat bowed down to them in apology, Sandy following suit. 

They look at Buddy, exchanging looks, and they nod. “Fine. But you’re also paying for our dinner tonight, got it?”

“Yeah, got it!” the two hummed in synch.