#mine is named Cecil after my bird!

[the-final-sif]

Hello, if you also love the minecraft Axolotl and would like to help preserve their real life equivalents, then you can go to here to adopt your own! You can learn more about the campaign on their website or here in an NPR interview. I've adopted one of my own named Cecil!

#minecraft axolotl #minecraft mob #conservation #ecologly #axolotl #preservation #adoptaxolotl #saw this campaign and wanted to let people know about it #sif speaks #mine is named Cecil after my bird!

[nazariolahela]

Best Beloved: Chapter 6

A/N: Hey y'all! This is a PM AU I’ve been working on. It’s a bit different than my previous fic series and I’m really excited to try something new. I hope y’all enjoy it. This story is told in dual first-person narrative, from Kaia (F!MC) and Damien’s POV. The first half of this story takes place during Kaia’s freshman year and Damien’s senior year of college. The second half is two years after Kaia graduates. There will be sprinklings of canon in this fic, but we’ll try to step out of the box for the most part. Thanks for reading, and please leave feedback, and/or if you would like to be tagged.

Catch up here

Series Tags: @burnsoslow​ @lady-calypso​​​ @irishwhiskys-blog​ @loveellamae​

Synopsis: What happens when you find yourself crushing on your best friend? For years, Damien and Kaia have been friends, while secretly harboring feelings for one another. Everything changes one night after a little too much alcohol and years of pent up feelings. Can they control their emotions and salvage their friendship, or will the feelings they hold for one another destroy everything they have?

All characters are the property of Pixelberry Studios. Thanks for allowing me to borrow them.

Chapter Summary: It’s the night of the homecoming dance, and things are burning up on and off the dance floor.

Kaia

“Stop fidgeting. You’re going to mess up my hard work,” Nadia snapped as she put the finishing touches on my hair. It was the night of the Homecoming dance and the whole campus was in a festive mood. The year’s homecoming week featured a "Wizard of Oz" inspired theme, aptly titled, “There’s No Place Like Homecoming." 

Judging by the lineup of activities, that statement wasn’t entirely false. The week’s festivities kicked off with a Wizard’s Festival on the Campus Green. Members of the Campus Activities Board were donned in costumes that could have been featured in the actual film. The rest of the week featured a Pep Rally, a campus scavenger hunt, and a concert featuring pop star Alyssa Griffin.

The parade was held earlier in the day, where the Homecoming Court was presented. The queen was Damien’s friend(?), senior Cecile Contreras. I recognized her from that day in the bistro. She eyed me with such disgust, if looks could kill, I would have dropped dead right then and there. The king was another senior by the name of Mikail Greene. I recall seeing him in passing on campus. He seemed nice. Damien said he was really popular with the student body.

The football game followed shortly after. The Badgers took an early lead but ultimately lost in OT. Steve had another stellar game, of course. I heard from people in the crowd how he was already drawing interest from NFL scouts as a freshman. When I asked Steve about it after the game, he brushed it off, saying he wouldn’t be draft-eligible for another two years.

“Okay! We’re all done. Now, get dressed. I want to see the finished product,” Nadia said, giving my updo a final spritz with hairspray.

I retreated to the bathroom and grabbed my homecoming dress hanging on the back of the door. I pulled the dress off the hanger and examined it. It was a low-cut, sparkly red, spaghetti strap number with a gold belt at the waist. I ran my fingers across the A-Line tulle skirt and smiled as I slipped the dress over my head, careful not to mess up my hair. Once I was dressed, I applied my makeup and took one last look at myself in the mirror. Students of Hartfeld, eat your heart out!

I swung the bathroom door open and stepped out into the shared space of our dorm. Nadia turned and gasped when she caught sight of me all dolled up.

“Ohmygods, Kaia! You look amazing!” she said, her eyes welling with tears.

“Really?” I asked, twirling around the room.

She nodded. “Whoever you’re planning on impressing tonight is going to be blown away.” She didn’t say it, but I knew she meant Damien. To be honest, I’d been upping my game in terms of my appearance lately. Ever since he told me he and Alana had been having problems, I’d been going out of my way to show him what he was missing. I put my hand on Nadia’s shoulder in a silent thanks, then moved to my room to retrieve my clutch.

Once we were ready, we exited the dorm and made our way to the parking lot. Steve’s trusty blue Chevy pickup sat in the empty space in front of our building. He and Sloane were seated on the tailgate, showing each other something on their phones. Steve looked up and a wide grin spread across his face when he noticed Nadia.

“Babe...You look...wow…” he stuttered as she wrapped her arms around his neck and peppered his face with kisses. I turned towards Sloane and gave her a bright smile as she hopped off the tailgate.

“Your dress is so pretty!” I squealed motioning for her to twirl. Her dress was similar in style and material as mine but in a light blue color.

“Thanks! Yours too! You ready to go?” she said, smoothing down her skirt.

I hooked my thumb back towards Steve and Nadia. “Sure. As soon as those two come up for air.”

Sloane laughed and shouted at the kissing couple to break it up. Nadia flipped us the bird, then we all piled into the pickup and made our way towards the Sports and Activities Center, where the homecoming dance was held every year. When we pulled up in the parking lot, it looked a lot different from the first time we were here. Gone were the tailgaters; replaced with a few remaining parade floats being dismantled and students in formal attire.

We walked the sidewalk that connected the parking lot to the football stadium and activities center, noticing it temporarily painted yellow to simulate a “Yellow Brick Road.”

“Cute,” I said to myself as we made our way inside the center. The doorman took our tickets and directed us to the field house which had been transformed into The Emerald City.

“Ohmygods, Kaia! I just realized your dress reminds me of Dorothy’s shoes!” Nadia squealed, squeezing my hand. 

My eyes roamed the room, taking in the magnificent job that CAB did on the decorations. A dance floor occupied the center of the room with several high-top tables scattered around it. The DJ booth was set up towards the back of the room under one of the basketball hoops. The bleachers were folded up on either side of the room to allow space for a photo booth and a bar area.

We moved through the room and found an empty table. The music from the DJ booth filled the room as dancers moved about the dance floor. A flash of black hair caught my eye and I turned to see Hayden strutting towards me. He had no business looking so good in a blue vest over a grey dress shirt and gray checkered tie. His eyes met mine and he grinned from ear to ear. When he arrived at our table, his eyes traveled the length of my body and I felt my cheeks and ears burning up.

“There’s no place like home,” he muttered under his breath and I barely caught what he said.

“What?”

“Nothing. You look amazing. Wanna dance?”

I looked over at Nadia and Steve, who were attached at the mouth. Sloane was nowhere to be found. I gnawed on my bottom lip, contemplating his offer. Damien’s words crept into my mind. You should give him a chance. Who knows? He might turn out to be a great guy. I turned back to Hayden and gave him a soft smile. “Sure. Let’s go.”

His eyes lit up as he took my hand and led me to the dance floor. Maroon 5’s “Animals” blared from the speakers as we moved together. I swayed my body to the beat, lost in the rhythm of the music. When I opened my eyes, I saw Hayden dancing, but his eyes were fixed on me. The intensity of his gaze made my skin instantly flushed. When the song came to an end, a slower track followed and I took this as my cue to grab a drink.

“You thirsty?” I asked.

He nodded and led me over to the bar. I perused the menu. Damn, no alcohol. I ordered both of us one of the signature “mocktails.” The bartender gave us our drinks and we made our way back to the table. Nadia and Steve were missing in action, but Sloane was standing there talking to a guy with auburn hair. She smiled when she saw Hayden and I approaching.

“Hey, guys! How was the dance floor?”

“Crowded,” Hayden replied, sipping his mocktail. The redhead guy whispered something in Sloane’s ear and she nodded before he walked away.

“So, who’s your friend?” I smirked at her.

“Oh, just some guy in my Spanish Comp class. Whatcha drinking?” she asked, eyeing my glass.

“It’s the signature mocktail. They’re pretty tasty. Have you tried one yet?” I said to her, holding up the multi-colored drink.

“Yeah, Derek went to grab us some.” She looked at Hayden, then back at me. Her eyes silently asked what was up between him and I. I smirked and shook my head as if to say, “tell ya later.” Derek returned shortly and the four of us fell into a comfortable conversation. He and Sloane had a class together and had been texting for a few weeks. I learned that Derek was a sophomore and a member of CAB. I complimented him on the decor, to which smiled and nodded. He finished his drink and asked her if she wanted to dance.

“Watch my drink for me?” she asked.

I nodded and smiled as Derek led her out to the dance floor, leaving Hayden and me alone. He rested his forearms on the tabletop and turned to me.

“So, you excited for midterms?”

I laughed. “Who would be excited about that?”

“Well, me for one. It means the semester’s half over.”

“Hmm...good point. I guess that’s one thing to look forward to,” I replied and took a sip of my drink.

He nodded and we fell into an awkward silence, watching the crowd. After a few minutes, he cleared his throat and spoke up. “So, I know I asked you this before, and I don’t want to come off too desperate, but I really like you, Kaia. And I know you like me too.” 

My cheeks flushed. How did he know? As if he could read my thoughts, he continued. “Your cousin told me.” 

Damnit, Nadia!

He smiled and continued. “Let me take you out. We don’t even have to call it a date. I just want to get to know you.” He reached across the table and took my hand in his, lightly brushing his thumb across my knuckles.

I looked down at our joined hands, then back up at him. My body reacting to the contact. Why was I acting like this? We were both single and obviously attracted to each other. What could it hurt? For some odd reason, my thoughts wandered to Damien. Jesus, what was wrong with me. He wasn’t available. It was because of him that I was hesitant to pull the trigger with Hayden. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to clear my thoughts. When I opened my eyes, Hayden was looking at me expectantly.

“Okay.”

He seemed taken aback. “Okay?”

I nodded. “Okay, okay. Let’s do it. Take me out. When are you free?”

A wide grin spread across his face. “What are you doing tomorrow?”

“Whatever you want to do,” I replied.

Something flashed in his eyes. He grabbed my hand and brought it to his lips, placing a chaste kiss on the back of it. “I think it’s time for another dance. Don’t you?”

I nodded and let him lead me out onto the dance floor. Ariana Grande and The Weeknd’s “Love Me Harder” started playing and Hayden placed his hands on my waist as we swayed back and forth. I looped my arms around his neck and pulled him close, pressing our foreheads together.

“Kaia? Can I ask you something?” he whispered into my ear.

“Sure,” I replied.

“What changed?”

I pulled back and searched his face. “What do you mean?”

He sighed. “I mean. I’ve been asking you out for almost a month now, and you’ve been side-stepping giving me a definite answer. Don’t get me wrong. I’m so happy you finally said yes, but I’m curious what changed?”

I thought back to the conversation I had with Damien in the bistro. How I was too afraid to pursue anything with Hayden because I was still harboring feelings for him. Would I ever get over them? Maybe in time. And he would always hold a special place in my heart. But this schoolgirl crush was getting in the way of me having a life. “Honestly? I just felt like it was time I got my shit together.”

Hayden seemed to accept that answer and pulled me back against him. We danced through two more songs, laughing and talking. As the current song was coming to a close, I looked across the room and saw him. Damien. The sight of him caused my breath to catch. He looked absolutely mouth-watering in a navy blue suit. The top two buttons of his dress shirt were unbuttoned, giving me a glimpse of his chest. 

He had his arm wrapped around Alana’s waist, but his eyes held mine with a look of pure lust mixed with jealousy. He leaned down and whispered something into Alana’s ear, never taking his eyes off mine. Hayden came up behind me and wrapped his arm around my waist. Damien looked over to him, then back at me.

I was the first to break eye contact, turning to Hayden and telling him that I had to use the restroom. He nodded and headed back to our table as I made my way through the crowd to the ladies' room. I grabbed the first open stall and rushed inside, shutting the door. I leaned up against the stall door and sucked in several deep breaths. What the hells was wrong with me? I was here with another guy, but I was eye-fucking my best friend from across the room. Jesus! Get ahold of yourself, Kaia!

***

Damien

Alana and I walked into the gym hand-in-hand. The strobe lights danced across the room as some upbeat pop song poured from the speakers. We spotted Cecile and Rowan dancing together, the lights reflecting off Cecile’s Homecoming Queen crown. Alana pulled me toward one of the tables and set her clutch down on the tabletop. She scanned the room, taking in the decor.

“Well, at least it's better than last year’s theme,” she huffed.

I cringed. Last year’s homecoming theme was “Boot-Scootin’ Victory,” a western-themed event that was as cheesy as you’d expect. I’m not sure who approved that one. The entire campus looked like a scene from the movie, “Tombstone.” The dance was even worse. CAB hired a country-western band to entertain, and they played nothing but ‘90s country music for the entirety of the dance. 

The most amusing thing that happened was watching the basketball team try to line-dance. A video of the team’s center riding a mechanical bull went viral, causing his draft stock to dip. Apparently, NBA scouts frown upon a 6’10” player having almost-sex with his girlfriend on the mechanical bull at the school dance.

Cecile and Rowan joined us a few minutes later at our table. Rowan and I made small talk while Cecile and Alana reenacted an episode of Project Runway, judging the dresses of our classmates. Rowan left to go grab drinks for the table, leaving me with the girls. I leaned over the table and congratulated Cecile on winning Homecoming Queen. She scowled, then muttered thanks.

I chuckled to myself. She was probably still pissed about seeing me and Kaia together at the bistro. I know she tattled to Alana right after they left. That night, Alana came to my dorm. We fought, made love, fought again, then didn’t talk for two days. I remembered Kaia’s words in the bistro when I told her about mine and Alana’s relationship troubles. This whole relationship seems really unhealthy. There’s a huge lack of trust on both sides. That’s something a break isn’t going to fix. If she only knew.

Rowan returned to the table with the drinks. I picked up the glass and eyed it skeptically as the green and yellow colors swirled together. I took a sip and turned up my nose.

“What the hells is this?”

“Some signature mocktail. Pineapple, orange and melon juice,” he said, taking a drink of his. “And it tastes like shit.”

He reached into his suit jacket and retrieved a flask, pouring what I assumed was alcohol into the cup. He turned and offered me some. I held out my drink and he dumped a splash of the clear liquid into my glass. I shook my head. “More.” He smirked and kept pouring until I motioned for him to stop. I took a drink. It was better, but not by much. I bit my tongue and chugged the drink, happy to finally have finished it off.

As Alana and Cecile continued to gossip, I spotted Nadia and some blonde kid making their way towards me. Her eyes lit up when she saw me and moved faster through the crowd. She wrapped her arms around me in a bone-crushing hug.

“Damien Elvis Nazario! Have you been avoiding me this semester?” she squealed.

I laughed. “Even if I was, you’d track me down.”

“It’s like you know me,” she replied.

I looked over her shoulder to see Alana staring at us with a scowl. I detached myself from Nadia and introduced her to Alana. The two women sized each other up in some sort of awkward standoff. After several tense moments, Nadia grabbed the arm of the guy she was with and drug him over to us. “Damien. I want you to meet Steve, my boyfriend.”

At the mention of his name, I remembered Kaia telling me about him at the frat party. “Ah, yes, Tennyson. Good game today, man. You’ve been tearing it up this season.”

He nodded and shook my hand. “Thanks, man. I know it’s still early, but I think we have a shot at the natty this year.”

The two of us talked for a few minutes before Alana wrapped her arms around me from behind and began pulling me toward the dance floor. I rolled my eyes and said my goodbyes to Nadia and Steve, then followed her. We made our way through the tables and found a spot near the edge of the crowd. A slow pop ballad played and Alana wrapped her arms around my neck. I rested my hands on her hips as we swayed to the music. As we danced, I scanned the crowd.

At first, I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. I caught a glance of her on the other side of the dance floor. Kaia. My Kaia. She looked like a goddess in that shimmery red dress. She was dancing with some tall guy with black hair. He leaned down and whispered something in her ear, and she started laughing. The jealousy radiated through my body. I watched her as the other guy rested his hands on her waist. I wanted to sprint across the dance floor and break both of his arms. Instead, I stood there — my arms wrapped around my girlfriend — watching my best friend dance with another man.

She looked up and locked eyes with me. Her shocked expression caused my lips to turn up in a small smile. She looked over at Alana, who was talking to some random girl. She probably introduced me, but I was too preoccupied watching Kaia to care. I glanced over at my best friend’s date, then back at her. The two of us stared at each other across the room for several moments before I felt Alana tug at my arm.

“I’m going to go grab another drink. Do you want anything?” she asked.

I leaned down, never taking my eyes off Kaia and muttered in her ear. “No, I’m good. I’m gonna go use the restroom.”

From the corner of my eye, I saw Alana move away. Kaia turned to her date, said something to him, then made her way through the crowd towards the doors of the gym. I waited 10 seconds, making sure Alana or none of her friends were around, then followed her. I reached the doors leading to the hallway when I saw her enter the bathroom. The alcohol began to take effect as I walked past a couple making out against the trophy case and stood outside the entrance to the bathroom.

Several minutes passed before she emerged. Her head was down, and she didn’t notice me until she nearly crashed into me.

“Holy shit! Damien!” she said, nearly toppling over. It was very reminiscent of the first day of school. I reached out and grabbed her arm to steady her. The touch of her smooth skin sent my senses into overdrive.

“We’ve gotta stop running into each other like this,” I smiled. She laughed and my chest tightened. My eyes raked up and down her body. Fuck, she looked phenomenal. That dress hugged her curves. I wanted to reach out and feel the fabric between my fingers

“You here by yourself?” I asked.

“I came with Nadia, Steve, and Sloane. They’re around here somewhere.”

I noticed she didn’t mention the guy she was dancing with. Which meant she didn’t come here with him. “No date?”

She narrowed her eyes. “Technically, no.”

“Who’s the lucky guy?”

“Hayden. You remember me telling you about him, right?” she smirked. I saw the amusement in her expression. Of course, I did. I was the one who told her to go out with him.

I nodded my head. “So, you finally decided to give the poor guy a chance.”

“I did. He’s taking me out tomorrow,” she smiled and it made me jealous.

“Oh yeah? On a Sunday?” I replied sharply, the alcohol giving me courage.

She cocked an eyebrow. “Not that it’s any of your business, but yes. He didn’t want to wait until next weekend to see me again.” I could hear the challenge in her voice.

I shoved my hands in my pants pockets. “Hmm...that’s interesting. Usually, guys who aren't that interested take girls out on Sundays.”

“Are you speaking from experience?” she scowled.

I shrugged. “I just know that Sundays are usually the day when people wind down from the weekend and prepare for their week. So, he probably won’t be all there mentally.”

Annoyance flashed in her eyes. “I don’t know why you give a shit, Dames. You were the one who told me to go out with him. He likes me and I like him. Why is that such a big deal to you?”

“I just want to make sure you know what you’re getting into. I mean, what do you know about this kid anyway besides his dog’s name and what classes he has?”

That seemed to piss her off even more. She stood up straight and stepped into my space. Her voice was low but held so much anger. “What the hells has gotten into you, Damien? First, you encourage me to go out with the guy. Now you’re trying to talk me out of it. You’re my best friend, not my dad. You don’t even know him, so stop judging him. The whole reason I’m going out with him is so I can get to know him. Why don’t you just back off?”

A loose strand of hair fell from her updo into her face. On instinct, I reached out and tucked it behind her ear, my palm brushing her soft cheek in the process. Her breath hitched at the contact. My eyes traveled to her mouth as she gnawed on her bottom lip. I knew my presence was making her nervous. That was her tell.

Thanks to the combination of the alcohol coursing through my body and the tension between us, I threw all inhibition out the window and leaned in to capture her mouth in a kiss. She froze for a moment, then her body melted as she gave in. A slight gasp escaped her lips as I wrapped my hand around the back of her neck and pulled her to me. I knew what we were doing was wrong, but damn if it felt so right. My fingers tangled in her hair and I slipped my other arm around her waist. Her lips parted slightly, allowing my tongue to dart into her mouth and massage hers. I had forgotten how good it felt to kiss her.

”Damien,” she whimpered.

My hands traveled down her back and cupped her ass. She moaned in my mouth, the sound shooting straight to my dick. I pressed my growing hard-on into her thigh. ”That's it, Kaia. Say my name.”

”Damien, please,” she said, breaking the kiss. She pressed her palms flat against my chest and shoved me back. Her chest rose and fell rapidly as she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “You have a girlfriend.”

“And?” I replied, moving closer.

She stepped back. “You should figure your shit out with her first. I won’t be a cheater,” she huffed.

“Kaia,” I said, my voice coming out in a harsh whisper.

“I have to get back to my date.” She looked me up and down, noticing the bulge in my crotch. “You should probably do the same.” She took one last look at me before turning and stomping down the hallway back towards the dance. She stopped at the entrance to the gym and turned back to me. The intensity of her gaze made me want to march up to her and claim her in front of the whole school, but my feet were rooted to the floor. Her eyes searched mine, both of our gazes saying what our mouths couldn’t. After a few beats, she shook her head and walked back inside.

I stood there and watched the door, waiting for her to come back. When she didn’t, I sighed and made my way back to the gym. I scanned the crowd for her but gave up after a few moments. Spotting Alana at our table with Rowan and Cecile, I raked my hand through my hair and sighed before walking back to my girlfriend.

#best beloved #pm au #college au #friends to lovers #perfect match #choices fanfic #damien nazario #kaia park #damien x mc #nazariolahela fanfic

[badideascometolife]

Random Fantasy One Shot that randomly switches tenses 🤙

"Mortal!" Cecile turns back to snicker with her surrounding squabble of brown noses. "I'm in need of your service."

"And that would be?" The flatness of my tone rings through the glass balcony and douses the excitement.

"I need you to fetch a flower for me. A rose, to be exact." The giggling returns.

"A flower? How quaint." You can practically taste the sarcasm on my tongue. "I'll fetch my lady one post haste."

Despite the worthlessness of the task, I enjoy being sent off on trists. It's relaxing to be removed from the prescence of the high princess and her mob. I turn to leave, padding evenly towards the door, as the snickering begins to swell.

"No, no," Cecile says, a feline smile dancing on her lips, "not that way to the gardens."

I turn my head to find the maliciously amused gazes of the peanut gallery. With the wave of a manicured hand, the laughter ceases.

"I'd much prefer you take the route directly from the balcony."

"I'm confused, there aren't any stairs nearby."

Cecile's smile grows slowly.

"I'm aware."

My brows furrow, but I am quickly overcome by the true meaning of what she's asking. It must show on my face, as her crowd erupts into uproarious laughter once more.

"No. I refuse."

The cackling grows.

"There are numerous things I have done for your amusement, Cecelia, but jumping off of a balcony won't be one of them."

I untie my servant's apron and toss it in her direction.

"I'll take whatever consequences I'm given, but I'm done."

As I turned to leave, an invisible force locks my bones in place. A chill scurries through my blood as a horrible realization is upon me. With my upper body still mobile, I begin searching my person frantically. Despite emptied pockets, the string of enchanted defense beads Sephya gifted me were gone. I crane my neck to find them laced between the princess' extended claw-like fingers.

"Missing something?"

Shit.

"No. Cecile, please."

Her unfeeling eyes glow an orange so fiery, I swear smoke is beginning to billow.

"[Insert main characters name], I order you to jump off of this balcony and retrieve me a rose." The all too familiar scent of greenery and metal, magic, overwhelms me as the enchanted command binds me.

All at once my body is set into motion, my joints grinding like the rusty gears of a child's broken plaything. I flex every muscle in my body to keep from moving forwards, but her enchantment is so much stronger.

"Is this your revenge plot after Stephin rejected you?"

My desperate words echo across the glass, silencing the crowd.

A sharp inhale. My eyes rove to Cecile's stiffened figure.

"You want to murder me because he admitted to finding me more amusing than you? I want nothing of his affections, and yet you punish me?"

I scoff, the delirium of death overwhelming me.

"You stupid, pathetic school girl, throwing tantrums after your lover recognizes your poisonous character. It is not my fault Stephin sees you as a snake."

My obnoxious slander strikes a chord deep within her, but she masks it well. Her followers, now quiet, return to their usual evils after a round of malicious chanting.

The roaring in my ears collides with the crowing of the princess and her cronies. I fall to my knees, scraping at the ground as my legs draw closer to the edge. The tips of my fingers betray me as they fumble with the hatch of the sliding glass door.

Normally an exit meant for avian species, now the entrance to my death. The entryway shrieks against it's rolling metal frame, expressing the same emotions I keep broiling inside.

I peered over the edge, sunlight gleaming on the pond thousands of feet below. Taunting me with a beauty I'll never experience again.

How saddening that this is how it all ends. I discover another world behind the dimensions of my own, slay beasts beyond my greatest imagination, and then ultimately become enslaved to an elitist race of bird people. How quaint.

The phrase, an echo of only a few moments ago, releases within me a shredded, gutteral laugh. How rapidly my fate can change at the hands of a demented princess.

I was so close to freedom, to returning home. Now those hopes are ash in the wind.

My eyes catch on another glint of light.

Metal.

A sword.

Two swords.

I squint to see what can only be Cassian and one of his colleagues battling on the training grounds. My lips part to call his name, but I am cut off by my legs launching me from the balcony.

The sound in my throat gets warped by the fall and comes out as a terrified scream. Writhing in the air, I flip upwards and receive a full view of Cecile and her friends racing to catch a glimpse of my descent.

I claw at the air, now in complete control of my body, not that it would help me otherwise. Wind whips at my hair, it screams horrible phrases, degrading me as descend.

I am Icarus and the Archian society is the Sun. I flew to close to a life of fantasy and now my wings are molten wax at my sides.

Doing my best to face the ground, I flip my body around, not wanting to give Cecile the satisfaction of seeing my reaction. I stopped screaming after a short while and now begin to block the anxiety from my mind. If this is how I must go, I will go with pride.

Scrambling meager amounts of self respect in the few seconds I have left, I use my arms and legs to shield my chest. My eyes clamp shut and my thoughts begin counting the seconds.

Three...

Two...

One...

SMACK

I'm met with an impact I don't expect. Human flesh and muscle collide with my plunging corpse. A heavy breath is released as a male figure arcs upwards into the sky. I cling to his structure and realize with a glance that I am in the arms of Cassian.

He must have heard my screams.

I gurgle out a thank you, but with my body still in shock, I can't piece together a coherent word.

We shoot past Cecile and her booing friends. The foreign princess calls for the high prince of Archian, but his responds resembles a low growl.

With a final beat of his wings, we land upon a flat marble rooftop, higher than I've ever dared to go. I scramble out of his grasp and onto the solid truss, my throat aching to retch and my brain pleading for safety.

Whatever strength I have left, I use to hold back the vomit and heave myself onto my back. I drape a hand over my eyes to block the sun, and heave a raspy breath.

"What were you thinking?" Cassian's low articulation is outlined in disbelief and anger. "How could you be so thick headed?"

Even with my vision blocked I can sense him moving towards me swiftly. With a firm grip on my shoulders, I'm met face to face with him.

"Did you honestly think killing yourself was better than servitude? Is it that impossible to bear?"

His words are fire, but his eyes are all melting ice searching mine desperately for the briefest of moments.

What an unexpected amount of concern.

"Cecile ordered me." I concede.

I could sense his waiting for a more detailed explanation.

"She asked me to fetch her a rose from the garden, but enchanted me so that I had to jump the balcony to get it."

"And your defensive charm?"

"Stolen."

A low growl rumbles from his throat. He releases my shoulders and paces towards the edge of the rooftop.

"I knew she hated me, but I never expected murder."

My confession rouses a harsh laugh from within him.

"Do not underestimate her coldness. She will do whatever pleases her, whether that be killing or a harmless prank. It all weighs the same on her moral compass."

"And she is meant to inherit her own kingdom some day?"

He nods.

I scoff and begin hoisting my body up off the ground. Cassian returns to my side to extend a hand. I grasp it and climb to my feet.

"I'll return you to your rooms. One needs rest after a near death encounter."

I nod, not an inch of protest holding me back.

He places a gentle hand beneath my knees and the small of my back, his powerful wings extending.

"Thank you, for saving me." The soft words squeeze from my lungs, almost lost in the wind.

His eyes are on me and I glance up to meet them. They remind me so deeply of the sky that I begin to wonder if it would be so bad to fall within them. His grip on me tightens and he whips his head forwards.

"Don't mention it." Cold. Calculated. Controlled.

I'm met with the harshness of the air once more as we begin to sail.

#fantasy #writing #one shot #fantasy one shot #secret world

[king-b0mbastic]

Perfect

A happy birthday gift 💝 for @suicide-d0g! Merry anniversary of existence, Chase :D!

Noah ( @strakh) and Cecil( @blxnd-trxth) belong to Chase

~*~

Noah grinned as he went up the steps. Cecil was waiting there, an expectant smile on his face. He looked great in his suit, and a black rose was pinned to his chest pocket. A small prompt flickered in the RK900’s vision, showing how the black rose was always used to represent death. ...An odd choice, but it complimented his black hair nicely. Then again, Cecil always looked great. How could he not?

The pastor grinned, albeit a bit nervously, he almost looked scared. Of course he would be, anyone would feel nervous tying the knot for someone as excellent as Cecil. It’s just like that.

“Do you, Cecil the RK800, promise to protect and love your husband?” Cecil grinned wider.

“I do.” The pastor turned to Noah.

“And do you, Noah the RK900, vow to honour and serve this marriage?” Noah opened his mouth, but something snared the words from upon his tongue and stuffed them back his throat. Cecil lifted an eyebrow, and the pastor blinked expectantly. The RK800’s LED turned a brief yellow, and so did the RK900’s, a canary yellow. Another something snatched the words from their hiding place and forced them through his mouth. They tumbled out, almost breathless.

“I-I do.” Cecil and the human relaxed.

“Then I pronounce you, husbands. You may now kiss your partner.” The other android was slow as he dipped his partner, a deep and passionate kiss.

As generous applause erupted, Noah’s eyes slid shut. Because they were shut, he couldn’t see that the room was empty, and that the clapping was coming from a speaker hidden in the rosary bushes. Because they were shut, he couldn’t see the shackles that tied the pastor to the podium. He couldn’t see the smug grin Cecil’s face.

Everything was perfect. Just perfect.

~*~

Cecil pressed the canary into Noah’s hand.

“What does this mean?”

“It means you always watching me.” Both the bird and the android waited for him to continue.

“Because…?”

“Because you love me.”

Cecil pressed a affectionate kiss to the other’s cheek, the other leaning into his touch.

“Excellent. Who’s Charli?”

Noah’s brow furrowed. A woman with a fiery temper but an even fierier passion flickered at the fringes of his vision. His heart beat faster.

“I-I…” Fingers dug into his neck, and she disappeared, the blaze of her love reduced to wisps of smoke. “I don’t know.” Cecil’s smile showed off his teeth, and Noah could sworn they were sharpened.

“Excellent. Now, who’s Eli?” The woman was there again, a toddler in her arms. The little one reached out to him, and he reached back with fatherly love. His arms closed around Cecil’s waist.

“Baby…” His voice was breathless. Cecil leant his head into the crook of his neck.

“Yes?”  The child vanished.

“...Nothing.”

The RK800 purred. “Excellent. Excellent, excellent, excellent.” He really seemed to like that word. “Now, who do you belong to?” Noah’s breath caught in his throat and-

running

blood

begging

cries

SCREAMS

f e a r

anger

FIGHTING

WINNI-

losing.

no

no

no

no

No

No

NO

NO

N0-

submission.

Noah pulled himself away from the other and hissed. “I belong to no-one.”

Cecil hissed back, striding forward, the eagle to the canary. The canary’s feathers ruffled in fear as his back hit the wall, and the talons of the eagle grazed his face.

Noah knocked his hands away with a scowl. “What the hell did you do with—“

“Silent.” Cecil placed his finger on Noah’s lips, and stole his voice with a kiss. The prey leaned his head back in disgust, and his predator chuckled. “Still.” The mouse froze with fear, and the cat purred. “Excellent. I’ve trained you well.”

His lips found Noah’s, and pressed harshly against them, and the man was forced to stand there. Cecil trailed little pecks down the other’s collarbone, and placed a firm bite on his neck. The wolf licked his fangs as he admired his handiwork. “Now, everyone knows you’re mine.” He rested his head on his lover’s chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart. He ignored the beats that skipped with fear.

“You know, your name means ‘rest’, or ‘comfort.’ You comfort me, you’re the only thing that doesn’t make feel like…” Cecil’s voice trembled, “Like a machine.”

Funny, Noah thought. Your name means ‘blind.’ Blind to the truth.

…

They went to the park after that. Fixed to one spot, Noah sat up right, while Cecil cheerfully tossed bread at the pigeons. A few people milled around, but for the most part, they were alone.

Cecil pocketed the bread, and started to rummage in his trousers for something. He pulled out a ring, and Noah’s heart froze.

He got down on one knee, and gazed up at the taller one, with doe-like, earnest eyes. “Noah, we’ve been dating for over six months. And I want to take our relationship to the next level.” Bystanders stopped to watch, curious. No-one could hear the silent rising screams of protest from a certain RK900.

“My love, will you marry me?” With shaking hands, Cecil slipped the ring on Noah’s fingers, and the skin retracted.

Immediately, a scouring heat seared through Noah’s mind, the outside world reduced to white noise. He felt his inner self fall to his knees, and memories crumble to ash. Flashbacks flickered, greyed and died, and he closed his eyes in reminiscence.

She and he danced among the rain. She tackled him to the ground and got mud all over them both. Neither cared. Gone.

She and he tried baking. She smacked his prying hands away with a spoon, scolding him lightly for trying to lick the batter. He stuck his tongue out in defiance. Gone.

Rays of sunshine peeked through the blinds. He blinked blearily, before turning back to see her, and pressed a loyal kiss to her forehead. Always together, for now and forever. Gone, gone and gone.

They all trickled past his fingers, useless. Then he started to fade as well. A plea danced on his tongue, but it was stillborn. Then it too succumbed to noiseless oblivion.

Noah came to, and found the definite love of his life staring at him nervously.

“Y-you don’t like the ring?” He stuttered. Noah looked around at the nosy people that had gathered around them. In response, he tackled Cecil to the floor with a deep kiss, and the crowd cheered.

“I love it.” He whispered. “It’s perfect. Just perfect.”

~*~

“NO! Absolutely not!” Noah winced at her tone. Charli crossed her arms, concern under her harsh glare. “Are you out of your mind?”

“He said he only wants me. He said that he won’t hurt you!”

“And you trust him?”

“...No.” Charli’s fiery gaze softened a little, and she moved to peck his lips softly. He sighed, and touched their foreheads together. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. Just… don’t do anything stupid alright?” He let out a dry chuckle.

“You’re in love with a huge dumbass. I don’t think that’s possible.” Eli burped from his place in the high chair, ruining their intimate moment. Neither minded.

Noah moved to pick his son up, who patted his face with glee. “You love your dad, don’t you? And he loves you.” He pressed a kiss to the baby’s forehead. “...Dada loves you very much.” The last part was sombre. Charli sidled up next to him, snaking her arms around his waist.

“We won’t let him win, I promise.” Noah made a small rumbling noise, akin to a purr.

A little canary bird sang the song of their love, and there they stayed, a picture-perfect family.

…

In the dead of night, Noah slipped out from rest mode. He sneaked out of bed, past the baby’s room, hopped over the creaky floor-boards, and went out of the front door. He turned to look out at his home, wondering if he should turn back while he still could. The house creaked and moaned for him to come back.

He did not.

Lights flickered on and off as he traveled the moon-lit streets. They illuminated his face in flashes, sometimes revealing determination, sometimes unveiling doubt. Noah turned to take a back route, one that would lead him to his destination faster. The cries of an infant ring from an nearby apartment, and a mother soothes him.

He ended up being late.

“You’re late,” Cecil mumbles. “But no matter.” He runs his eyes and fingers over the other’s face. “We have an eternity.”

Noah allowed Cecil’s hands to roam his face.

“You won’t hurt them, will you?”

Cecil smiled.

“Will you?”

Cecil smiled wider.

“Will you?”

The only response was a small kiss to the lips, and a whisper to his ears.

“She’s in love with a huge dumbass, I don’t think that’s possible.”

Perfect, Noah cursed himself, Just perfect.

~*~

“Noah, no.” His tongue stuck out.

“No.” It became a little more visible.

“No!” It was inches from the spoon.

“No!” He licked it. Charli sighed in defeat, and Noah took this as opportunity to stick the whole utensil in his mouth.

“I can’t believe I have to take care of two children.” Eli clapped his hands happily, and squealed. Noah shrugged, and went to find a spoon to feed the baby as well. “You are aware of the fact that we need the cake batter, to make the actual cake?”

Defiant, Noah scooped a noticeably large portion of the batter and gave it to Eli, who obediently inhaled the spoon. Charli whacked him on the arm, and he chuckled, kissing her cheek gently.

“You love me.” He teased.

“Sadly,” She grumbled, and set about grabbing other things, more thirium based things. Noah sat down to watch.

“I wanted to try the new thirium food processor.” She patted the machine. “It was… surprisingly cheap, seeing how expensive these things are in the market.”

“Oh? Where did you get it from?”

“Someone. A RK800. Seemed eager for me to take it off his hands.”

Noah paused,

“...Interesting.” Charli poured the thirium into the top of the machine, and pressed the necessary buttons.

It took a total of ten minutes before they were all sitting around the table. While Charli was busy trying to convince Eli to eat, Noah hesitantly placed a bite in his mouth.

Immediately, it felt as if something was constricting his innards, and his mind floated away from the current scene…

…

*Begin video transcript.

It would appear the apartment is full of… roses? A monitor sits on a corner, but it’s apparently off, the screen full of static.

Someone steps into view. RK800?

“You don’t know me, but I know you. I know you very, very well.”

The monitor flicks on, and a video of Noah and Charli playing the mud starts to play. The view zooms in, and places a circle around a figure in the trees. It smiled.

“I’ve been observing your actions, and I’ve come to realise something. You make me feel… special. You fill the void that rests in my soul. Meet me at 8 o’clock tonight. I want to talk.”

End video transcript*

…

...That was the trippiest spaghetti Noah had ever eaten in his life. And so he thought nothing of it, until later that night.

Eli had been in his cot, and the baby monitor had been silent. Noah and Charli had slipped into bed, and wished each other good night. At 3 in the morning, the sound of crying had kicked the RK900 out of standby. Fatigued, the father trudged heavily to the other bedroom.

Eli was choking.

As the poor infant’s face started to turn blue, Noah rushed to the side of the crib and patted his back as hard as he could. He had evidently dislodged it, as something landed with a tink on the wooden floorboards. Eli continued to cry.

Soothing the baby until the noise was reduced to sniffles, Noah placed the child back in his cot. He was still in a daze as he picked up the object. It was a golden heart locket with a bird, a canary, engraved on it. Noah clicked it open, and read its contents:

Roses are red

His face turned blue

Meet me before dawn

If you know what’s good for you :)

A small chirping noise came from the window. It was… a canary. It clasped the broken chain of the locket in its feet, and tilted its head back at Noah. Once it had flown away, Noah turned back to message, but all that was left was an adress. The RK900’s fists clenched, and with a barely lidded rage, he set off.

…

“I came. What the hell do you want?” He growled.

“You.” Came the simple answer. Noah hissed.

“You tried to kill a child. My child. What kind of sick fuck are you?” Cecil sighed, and dramatically draped his body across Noah, who recoiled in disgust.

“A lovesick one.”

“Listen, I don’t have time for your games. Tell me what you want, or so help me, I’ll leave-“ Cecil pressed a finger to his lips.

“Did you leave the stove on?” Noah wrenched the other’s hand away.

“Why would you ask me that-“

“Stoves left alone can kill people. Do you know how many fires are started by reckless people? I mean, something could get into the system…?” Noah growled again, and almost bit Cecil’s fingers off.

“Fine, what the hell do you want?”

“I already told you. You.”

“Why me?”

“You’re perfect. Just perfect.”

#owl picks up a pen #tw: abuse #happy day of borth

[livefuntravelposts]

Ultimate Guide to Zimbabwe

I lived and worked in Zimbabwe for almost 5 years.  Heading out to the bush to experience the wildlife.  Having a weekend on Lake Kariba on a houseboat.  Seeing Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park.  I lived in Harare and made many good friends in this warm and welcoming country.  Though it has had some political turmoil over the past few years, Zimbabwe is one of the great African destinations to experience authentic Africa. Have you ever visited Africa and felt, 'Wow, this is epic!' For many travelers, Zimbabwe is a goldmine of 'bush luxury.' It's the perfect vacay destination for travelers who want to experience the true spirit of an African Safari. Zimbabwe has it all, from dramatic landscapes, endless National Parks under clear blue skies, not to mention the staggering thriving wildlife, and authentic locals. Once you set foot on the red soils of this sprawling country, you'll never want to leave. Spend your days exploring the Mighty River Zambezi, on long game drives in the expansive game reserves, or relax on a boat cruise on Lake Kariba. You'll be spoilt for choice with the countless activities you're about to enjoy in Zimbabwe. Whether it's an adventurous game drive, a breathtaking Savannah, a thrilling night drive, or bush walks with professional safari guides; This undiscovered country has a variety of activities for you to enjoy. Home to some of the most breathtaking beautiful waterfalls on earth, Zimbabwe is genuinely unique. Not  forgetting the helpful locals, expect a joyful and friendly welcome. The convenience to traverse between different cities and national parks also makes the country an exciting destination. If you plan to visit Zimbabwe, here is our ultimate guide to Zimbabwe:   Harare I lived and worked in Harare for almost 5 years and love the city. Zimbabwe’s capital city. Located high on Zimbabwe's great plateau, the air in Harare certainly feels fresh and clear, and while many won't want to spend a lot of time in the area, it's good for an overnight stop. While here, you are spoilt of choice on what to do and see. You can check out the Botanical Gardens that is home to hundreds of different tree species. From there, you can head down to Mukuvisi Woodlands or Kuimbashiri Bird Sanctuary; this is a perfect place for bird watchers. If you are not interested in birds, you can explore the Wild is Life Trust, a wildlife sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitate animals. Other notable animal parks include the Lion and Cheetah Park and Lake Chivero Recreational Park. From the animals, you can drive north to Domboshava village for some sightseeing. In the evening, stroll around the Doon Estate, a shopping district- be sure to carry your bargaining skills. Check out the National Archives Of Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe Museum Of Human Sciences for some history lessons. Best resorts in Harare include; The York Lodge, Kingsmead Guest House, Amanzi Lodge (recommended for an African experience).  

You can actually see where my office was in the photo of Harare. The weather was wonderful and the people are warm and inviting.   Bulawayo    Bulawayo's wide, tree-lined walkways are flanked by steadily fading colonial buildings that ooze Victorian-style art deco. The city has a beautiful historic vibe, and it's worth spending a few daysthere. This is the gateway to Matobo National Park,  while here, make sure you visit Cecil Rhodes Burial Place. You can easily access Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park from Bulawayo. Spend your morning soaking up the beautiful architecture while strolling through the beautiful allay-ways. Start by checking out the Bulawayo Railway Museum and learn everything about trains. Then head to The Museum of National History to learn more about Zimbabwe. Later on, you can try out the lovely restaurants popping up at every corner for some mouth-watering steaks. There are also plenty of curio shops to shop and pick some African Souvenirs such as Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, Induna Arts, and Fazak Gift Centre. For best places to stay in Bulawayo check out Holiday Inn Bulawayo, Motsomai Guest Lodge, and The N1 Hotel.

On the way to the incredible Victoria Falls, stop off in Bulawayo and explore the town.   Mutare   Sitting beautifully inside a dish-like valley, Mutare is surrounded by rugged mountains in the splendid Eastern Highlands. These majestic mountains separate Zimbabwe from Mozambique, with the borderline about 8 km away. You’ll find numerous attractions to see both in and out of town. While in the city, you can go to the   Mutare Museum, then visit  The Mutare National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe for some inspirational art collection. Another must-see site is the Cross Kopje site, a memorial site for Zimbabwe soldiers who died during the first world war. Later on, head outside the city, and explore the Honde Valley, which borders Nyanga National Park. From there, you can also visit the Vumba Mountains for some scenic views of the city. Mutare has a fine selection of pocket-friendly accommodation options. Several lodges, resorts and campsites are available in town.   Kariba Town   Renowned for its famous Lake Kariba, this little town has become a popular destination for tourists visiting Zimbabwe. Boadering  Zambia, Kariba town offers a breathtaking view of the Kariba Dam, one of the most magnificent engineering works in Zimbabwe. You can start by doing a morning game drive in the Zambezi Valley for a fast class adventure. Then head down  Lake Kariba or the River Zambezi for a fishing excursion.  If you're up for a thrilling adventure in the  wildlife reserves, try the  Matusadona Game Park for some action-packed game drives. You can also use this town as a launching point to other areas such as Mana Pools, Matusadona, and Chizarira. At dusk, stroll through the township; make sure to pass by the Santa Barbara Chapel and conclude your day at the magnificent Karibu heights for a dreamy sundowner romantic  view of the Lake and surroundings.

If you only have a week to 10 days in Zimbabwe, we recommend that you head to Lake Kariba and head out on a houseboat for a couple of nights. Then head to Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park for incredible wildlife.   Victoria Falls (Town)   This is a must-have destination when visiting Zimbabwe. Thanks to its magnificent views of the iconic waterfalls, Victoria Falls will remain one of Africa's most popular tourist towns. This small town sits on the Zambezi River's southern bank and next to the famous natural wonder, the  Victoria Waterfalls. While here, it is only ideal for you to visit the Victoria Falls National park; soak your eyes with the best views of Victoria Falls. Don't forget to go on camera roll-mode  and capture the heavenly sites around the falls. From there, you can head upstream and enjoy a boat cruise of the Zambezi River. If you are still fired up, head to the Victoria Falls bridge for bungee jumping, and later for  a better view of the breathetaking  waterfalls. You have the perfect angle to capture amazing snapshots of the entire landscape while on the bridge. The town offers accommodation options, ranging from luxurious resorts, camping sites to bed and breakfast conveniently situated in or out of town.   Gweru City   Gweru, the 5th biggest city in Zimbabwe, is a perfect destination for those who love nature. Gweru has a fantastic flora and fauna with lovely flowers flourishing here all year round. Exploring the  Antelope Game Park should be on top of your list when here, then maybe visit the Thornhill Airbase, the main Zimbabwe Airbase, and a military pilot training school. While there, visit the  Military Museum. Be sure to pass by The Boggie Clock Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Zimbabwe. Another must-see  Attraction is the Naletale ruins located just outside Gweru City. As evening approaches, you can opt to relax with the locals, stroll around admiring nature or hike up the nearby mountains. The city's downtown part has many accommodation options, including luxury resorts, lodgings, and self-catering sites.   Kwekwe, the Gold Mine Town   Kwekwe town, named after the famous Kwekwe River, is situated in the midlands of Zimbabwe. Kwekwe town was founded in 1898 when gold was discovered in the area. Besides mining gold, this little town is an industrial hub for iron and steel. The most notable tourist attraction is the National Mining Museum, which showcases the town's significance and history as a mining town. Other interests include: The Sable Park A privately owned recreational park The Kwekwe Sports Club Khayalethu Garden Centre The Sebakwe dam The town is full of budget-friendly accommodations making it ideal for backpackers and other tourists.   Masvingo Masvingo is a typical crossroads rural town that leads to several major cities. It has an enticing, comfortable vibe and a few glimpses of elegance, but it has very little to offer overall. Most travelers use this town as a stopover as they head outside to other parts of Zimbabwe, whether you are going west to Bulawayo east to Harare or exploring the country's southern region. Formerly referred to as Victoria Fort, this town pays homage to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. You can also explore the  Kyle game Park and recreational center. Further down, Masvingo also hosts the second largest Lake in Zimbabwe, Lake Mutirikwi. While relaxing at the Lake's shores, you can also check out the Chamavara Cave, which has some beautiful rock paintings believed to be showcasing the way of life of the indigenous communities. Other must-see attractions include the Italian Chapel of Masvingo, Majiri stone Ruins, Muzhwi Dam, and the Shagashe Game Park full of wild animals.

Great Zimbabwe is a medieval city in the south-eastern hills of Zimbabwe near Lake Mutirikwe and the town of Masvingo.   The Midlands & Southeastern Zimbabwe   Commonly known as the highveld, the Midlands are cold, while the Lowveld is the warmer, lower-lying southeastern part of the region. Masvingo is right in the center, at the transition of both the regions, closer to Great Zimbabwe – the most senior archaeological ruins Southern Africa. Lying low in the warmer Lowveld region is the striking Gonarezhou National Park, ZImbabwe's second-largest Park and arguably one of the most remarkable parks in the entire Southern Africa region. The Park also borders Mozambique, and that's not all. It's an extension of the incredible Kruger National Park bordering South Africa. Earlier in the century(2002), the three countries, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique, set apart 35,000 square km to create an extensive park with no boundaries and named it The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. The Gonarezhou National Park has a staggering landscape, including the Chilojo sandstone Cliffs, staggering baobab trees, extensive striking plains, and significant rivers meandering across the Park and into the villages. You'll also come across all kinds of wildlife from gigantic wild elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, wild dogs, plus hundreds of varied bird species.   Great Zimbabwe The Great Zimbabwe city dates back to the 15th century AD and is evidence of civilization in Africa from way back. Listed as a Unesco World Heritage site, the ruins comprises three main areas The Great enclosure, Hill Complex, and the Valley. You can either take a self guided tour or hire   a tour escort @$12 per person, and authorities at the checkpoint provide reading resources to guide you as you navigate the area. The recommended time to visit is at dawn or at dusk to beat the sweltering daytime heat.   Lake Kyle (Mutirikwi) Recreational Reserve Lake Kyle (Mutirikwi) is a man-made lake created in 1960 to water the Lowveld sugar cane farming plantations. Today it serves both as a water source for the farms and a wildlife reserve – especially to the white rhinos found in the region. There's plenty to see in terms of wildlife, exotic ostriches, massive hippos lazing around in the muddy pools, elegant giraffes sauntering, beautiful zebras, and herds of buffaloes.   If you prefer camping, you can find accommodations about 7 miles on Mutare–Birchenough Bridge road, just after Masvingo town.    

  Our Final Word

There was a time in the past, political unrest tainted Zimbabwe's tourism reputation, but today, the country is slowly shrugging off the tag and slowly making a progressive comeback as one of Africa's truly remarkable travel destinations.  I hope it continues as the country is a wonder.  An amazing experience that will transport you back to old Africa.   The world’s wonder and must-see attraction that has survived the turmoil is the Victoria Waterfall. Another must-watch tourist destination is Harare City, with its fantastic cosmopolitan Vibe. So if you feel adventurous enough, it would be nice to check out this lost Jewel of Africa.

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#africa #Travel #zimbabwe

[metasandmagic]

Black Birds and Atoms

Summary: Soulmate marks were always supposed to represent something special about your soulmate. The small black bird on the inside of Ray’s wrist could have meant any number of things. It would have been easier if it was a name or a phrase. Laurel figured from the atom on her wrist whoever her soulmate was could be considered smart. But when they first meet each other neither one thinks of the possibility it might just mean each other. Not until a family dinner and the conversation turns to the marks.

Characters: Laurel Lance, Ray Palmer

Pairing: Laurel Lance/Ray Palmer

AO3

@metasandarrows

It was nearly impossible to get everyone together at once. They were from different cities and different dimensions or times in some cases, but for at least one night they had managed to do it. A few introductions but it felt like family and as Laurel glanced at the table as she was grabbing dessert. Family, friend and lovers, the Danvers sisters reminded her of everything she wanted for Sara and her. Thea and Oliver teasing each other. Joe and Cecil, with their kids. They had even managed to convince Jesse and Jay to leave their worlds for this dimension. William entertaining JJ and she couldn’t help but smile at the little touches between the couples.

How many pairs of soulmates were in this room? To many and she subconsciously rubbed at the tattoo on her wrist. She knew that Tommy nor Oliver weren’t hers but she still hadn’t allowed herself to think of who it might be in a long time. Soulmates never meant that you were going to meet. Picking up the desserts she carried it to the table. “I didn’t bake either of these I promise.” She hear the sigh of relief from her father and a couple of others.

“Oh thank god.” Oliver’s comments got a few confused looks and Felicity went to shove at his shoulder. Instead he just grabbed her arm and kissed the mark that showed the whole world they belonged together, even if only the people in this room understood the green arrow and what it meant. “Such a little mark that means so much.”

Felicity kissed Oliver on her lips. “I never would have imagined when I first met you that it would be you.” A few of the others made sounds of agreement and held their loved ones closer. 

“I knew Sara was mine the moment she took on the name Ta-er al-sahfer.” Ray blushed and scratched his head, looking away from the couple. They were sadly proof that soulmates didn’t mean forever but they sometimes came back to each other.

He took a drink and cleared his throat. “I ummm. thought you might have been mine when we first met.” He held out his wrist and the small black bird stood out. Sara leaned across a few people and grabbed his wrist. 

“But you didn’t think my sister, the Black Canary could be.” He glance over at Laurel. He hadn’t known her identity for sure until they were facing each other in an interrogation room and had never given it a second thought. The room was glancing at him and the ones who knew the mark on Laurel’s wrist were glancing nervously between the two. 

There were plenty of interesting stories about how two people found out they were soulmates but no one in this room could remember a story going quite like this. A room full or family, friends, and ex-lovers and nobody had ever put the pieces together until this moment. Sara walked over to her sister who hadn’t yet said anything and seemed to be covering her own mark looking at Ray in shock.

“Especially when this is the mark on her wrist?” She grabbed Laurel’s arm and removed her hand, the small atom seeming to burn into her skin.

Laurel wasn’t sure who was more shocked, Ray or her. They had never been close but they had known each other for a while. She had found him attractive and smart. Maybe if she had gotten to know him better before everything went to hell for him she would have fallen for him. “Woah.” Ray took the words right out of her mouth.

How did this happen? With both marks it was obvious they were connecting each other. But she didn’t like the idea that the universe knew she was going to be Black Canary before she did. Even if she had told her father that her path had always been headed toward the mask. “Can we maybe talk about this after we eat?”

Laurel had barely touched her food but her mind was going a mile a minute. The atmosphere had changed and while people were talking again she could feel the looks that were being thrown her way. Ray, her soulmate was Ray. Shouldn’t she be feeling something except for surprise that someone had just put the pieces together now. Of course she knew that soulmates didn’t mean easy or perfect or forever. It just meant finding the one person you fit with. 

They were both smart, compassionate people who cared about others and wanted to make this world a better place. It was a good fit, she knew logically they worked well together and she couldn’t say she had never checked him out, but he was Felicity’s ex and their circle of inner-dating had been complicated enough.

She picked up her plate and took it to the kitchen before heading out to the hallway. She could feel a few eyes on here but nobody tried to stop here. It was only a few minutes later that the door opened and Ray walked out. “I hope I’m not that terrible of a soulmate.”

Laurel closed her eyes for a second and took a deep breath before turning to face him. “No it’s not that at all. I just haven’t had the best luck with relationships. You’re a good man Ray, I don’t want something to happen to you too.” That was part of it and she didn’t resist as he walked over to her and pulled her in his arms.

“I’ve heard the stories about Oliver and Tommy, but maybe it was just the universe trying to say they were the wrong person.” He knew as soon as he spoke those weren’t the right words to say. “I’m sorry, that didn’t come out right. I didn’t mean them dying was because of you, just them not working out.” That wasn’t working out any better.

She left the comfort of his arms and looked up at Ray. “I understand. Maybe, are you willing to take that risk? See where this goes and you do have the time travel heroics.” She finds her soulmate and he doesn’t even live in the same time period as her on a normal basis. He doesn’t live in any time period really.

That part hadn’t crossed his mind yet. He had been to busy trying to figure out how he missed that Laurel was his soulmate. She was smart and firey, selfless and heroic; everything he had ever wanted in one very gorgeous body. “I can stay for a while. The team can come get me if they need me, but I’d like to see how this plays out.” He took another step forward and placed his hand on her cheek.

“Good, I do to.” Laurel stood up on her toes and kissed him. It wasn’t anything to write home about but she did enjoy the simple kiss. “How about we go get dessert? Leave them to their gossip.”

And gossip was exactly what they were going to be doing. Everybody new everything within their world. “Yeah, there was this diner. They had the best pie, down by Palmer tech.”. She nodded her head and wrapped her arm through his.

“I know exactly the place you’re talking about. I used to stop by there whenever I was near by. This is already a great beginning.“

#laurel lance #ray plamer #laurel lance/ray palmer #fanfic #mine

[luckymiltank]

Another "train" question directed at multiple personas for research purposes. What was your original goal with your characters? The original vision, the ideal character traits, and how does the original vision compare to your newer thoughts and future ideas for your characters if you have any different thoughts/ideas?

Okay. So. This is gonna be a big ‘un.

Bic was my first splatoon oc thought. When I heard the MariTime Melody song over and over, she popped into my head and I thought about what it would be like for a forbidden love type thing. Sure, the idea is overplayed as well as the “Octoling trying to adjust to inkling culture” idea, but its something I wanted to do. So she is the base/anchor of my splatooning. Without Bic, I can’t say I would have been in the splatoon fandom as much as I was. I wanted her to be this super tough, army trained octo, but with a high sense of curiosity. “There has to be something more out there.” Is the one sentence/quote I would use to describe Bic’s mindset. Originally, she was going to be super hostile, having a love/hate relationship with Cecil/Agent #, but I decided I like fluff a little more. I also, in Different Strokes, was going to originally have way worse/more things happen to/because of Bic. Octos were going to invade Inkopolis, innocents killed, she gets thrown into octo prison and tortured until she no longer wanted anything to do with inklings etc. But the idea was scrapped because god damn it, I love love stories.Cecil was a staple to Bic since, well, she had to have someone to crush on, amirite? He was named after someone I used to work for, but my main vision for him was kind of a Ron Stoppable kind of guy. Serious about his agent work is damn near a complete fuck up and only succeeds by pure luck/chance. That Idea was somewhat scrapped, but still lightly sprinkled in here and there. He’s supposed to be a bit of a clutz, but a brainiac and a slight germaphobe in his home, which you’ll see a lot more of in White Out.Milly, of course, is sort of a self insert. My love of cafes and coffee shops and when I started playing splatoon and saw the cafe in inkopolis just made sense. My goal for her was kinda a country 50′s diner waitress kinda gal, but with an athletic side. She uses an inkbrush and boy is she fast with it. She was originally going to be part of a team, whos names and ideas I still have, but again, the idea was scrapped for her to just be a humble business owner. She’s a barista, a bartender, a bestfriend, a babysitter and a sweet country gal that can make a mean just about everything you could ask for. I wanted her to be sort of an “AppleJack” from MLP, but inkling. I have a story on her and how she came to own the cafe and why she does what she does coming up. No name for it yet. But overall, she’s stayed the same as the original concept of her, besides her tentacle style being changed due to it looking too close to Vodka’s.Speaking of Vodka…Vodka is, was, always sorta will be, my party girl of my crew. In her younger years, she’s a slut that loves to party almost as much as she loves to drink, and that was my idea for her. After roleplaying with a friend of mine for a while, she ended up becoming…so much more. She became a more complex character, now with a family and a background story and somehow ended becoming my favorite character and even my muse. I’ve planned for her “spoiled party girl”- esque attitude, and her whore-ish nature, but what I never planned on was for her to fall in love. And it happened. Hard. Because of that, she developed into a more responsible character, but still a drunk immature woman. Her personality stayed on track, but her physical appearance and story changed in the sense that she had a drastic change and all for the sake of love. But you’ll find out more of that in my story Of Booze and Birds. Martini was another staple, not coming into existence until after having roleplayed with Vodka a bit because I figured for Vodka to have been the way she was, she had a family to have been the backbone of her rebellious ways. Martini was meant to be a complete opposite of Vodka, while still being a twin sister, almost like sugar and spice. Nice and Naughty. Angel and Devil. You get the picture. She is, now, developing into another character all her own, instead of just being “Vodka’s goody two shoes sister”, and I’m happy about it. You’ll see more of her personality in the story Guilty Pleasures.

 I’d go into detail more, but I’m at work and this post is super long already. Thank you to everyone who takes even a slight interest in my characters and their stories!

#splatoon #ocs #anon #text post #long post #Milly #Vodka #Martini #Bic #Cecil #the more you know #behind the scenes #ask #reply

[skanecanyon]

Trouble In Paradise

          As this dream opens, I find myself in a tropical paradise. I am very happy. My dad is still alive. My mom is there, and we are either vacationing or living in a very tropical resort type of setting. Lots of foliage and flowers. Tropical birds in the trees. I get the impression that we have moved and that this is going to be my new life. There is an outdoor patio area located in the woods not too far away from where we are living. It has a floor comprised of patio bricks, contains a table and some outdoor furnishings, and is surrounded by lots of foliage and tiki torches. I can't wait to kick back and relax with a book and a drink and take some selfies to post online for all my friends back in cold, miserable Minnesota to see.

           In order to get to this outdoor patio area, you have to walk for a ways down this dirt road that cuts through a wooded area. As my mom and I walk down this road, we come across this woman who seems to be a botanist. She's deaf and she speaks like you would expect a deaf person to speak. She's telling us about this kind of flower that she has developed, which is growing there alongside the road. It kind of looks like a hydrangea, but it is much redder and contains these "special flowers" that have hairy tendrils emanating from them. She tells us that you can cut these special flowers off and use them to start new plants. She was in the process of doing this as we encountered her. As I look alongside the road, I can see where she has planted many different types of wildflowers, some of which I can identify. I see some Royal Catchfly and some Purple Prairie Clover. These are both species that are native to Minnesota. In real life, I have spent the last couple of years turning my backyard into a pollinator haven and I planted quite a few of both of these, as well as many others.  

           Suddenly my mom is no longer with me, but I continue down the dirt road until it opens up into a beach area. The surroundings are beautiful. Blue sky, white sand, waves lapping upon the shore. I look across the bay and I can see architecture that resembles what might be found in Greece. White washed buildings, lots of domes. I have my phone with me and I'm trying to take pictures that I can post online, but my camera is having a hard time auto-focusing for some reason and I'm disappointed that I can't get a good shot. All the people around me are dressed in ancient garb comprised of flowing robes, tunics, sandals, and head dresses. I get the feeling as though I have stepped through a portal into another place and time. There is a market place across the bay. I can see people conducting business in front of the gates of what appears to be an ancient city. It almost seems like I've been cast back into biblical times. There appears to be a priest or some other high official dressed in particularly fancy clothing, announcing to everyone around him that they must now start worshiping a new god, who goes by the name Aliya (not to be confused with the  Alia Atreides, sister of Paul Atreides, from the Dune series by Frank Herbert, which is, of course, the best story ever written), and as a result, everyone must start wearing the new ceremonial head dress, which is maroon and gold (oddly enough the same colors as my old alma mater), similar to what you might see someone wearing in Cecil B. DeMille's Ten Commandments.  

           Next thing I know, I'm back at our house and I'm screwing a bunch of silver wear utensils to a wooden board. I'm experimenting with different ways to orient the metal knives, spoons and forks that I'm attaching to this board. Each one is held in place with one screw through the middle of the handle, so that the individual utensil can spin like a propeller. My dad asks me what I'm doing. I tell him that I'm building a solar power array. For some reason, I'm thinking that if I leave this board with all the silver wear sitting in the sun all day, the silver wear will get hot and I can use that heat to generate electricity. A few years ago, in real life, I experimented with building a passive solar heater that was made out of aluminum tubes that I had painted black. I patterned it after something I saw on YouTube. It actually worked, but it was incredibly heavy and awkward to use, so I dismantled it. It would have worked much better as a permanent construction project that was physically built into the house. Anyway, I digress. I'm not sure how this fits into the rest of the dream, because next thing I know, I'm back on that beach.

           This time as I exit the dirt road onto the beach, I am approached by a small boy of Middle Eastern or Mediterranean descent. He is standing in front of me, looking up at me and singing a song in a foreign language. I get the feeling that he wants money or something. I stop and listen for a few minutes, then I realize that I know the song and I sing the last few words along with him in this foreign language. I can't tell you what song it is, or what language it's in. I only know that I'm somehow familiar with it. As soon as I join in, the boy loses interest, turns and walks away. Apparently, I had ruined his gig.

          The scene on the beach is exactly like it was before, but it is now later in the day. I look across the bay at the structures I had noticed before. The shadows are now longer. The market place is still bustling with activity though. I walk along the beach to the other side of the bay, where the priests were making their proclamation in front of the city gates earlier. I notice that I am now dressed pretty much the same as everyone else. I'm wearing a desert style robe and a rather Western bandanna (I frequently wear a bandanna in real life, as I am a bald man). I'm also wearing a primitive necklace with leather strapping and a decorative stone with a strange symbol carved into it. It doesn't strike me as strange though in the dream. It's like my birth sign or something.

           As I walk up to the city gates, which is very much like a Roman era city gate, I am suddenly grabbed by a very large muscular thug type who is wearing clothing similar to what a Roman soldier would wear. He grips my arms from behind me and completely immobilizes me. I struggle to break free from his grip, but it is useless. Then this other regular sized guy approaches me from the front. I recognize him as the priest who was declaring the new official religion earlier in the dream. He's looking at my bandanna and is very angry. He rips it from my head and waves it in front of me demanding, "What is this? Why aren't you wearing the official Aliya head dress? This is blasphemy, punishable by death!" Then he looks at the stone necklace I'm wearing. It further infuriates him and he rips it from around my neck and throws it to the ground. I explain to him, "Look, you just made this proclamation earlier today. You can't expect everyone to be prepared for the changes yet. I was just on my way to buy one of the new head dresses. You have to believe me." He steps back and thinks about it and decides to spare me my life. He confiscates my bandanna and necklace and gives me a maroon and gold head dress to wear. "Don't let me catch you again without it," he warns, and he lets me pass into the city.

           Shortly after entering the city, I run into a friend of mine who is dressed normally. Modern day Western wear comprised of jeans and a T-shirt. No head dress or anything. As I walk with him, I'm complaining about the new mandatory religion. I'm telling him how bullshit I think it is. At no point do I question why he is not dressed like everyone else. Now for some reason I am suddenly holding an old West revolver in each hand and I'm using them to point at things. As we pass other people, I point at one woman who is just dressed in peasant clothing. "Why isn't she wearing the religious head dress?" I demand. The we pass another gentleman who is also dressed in peasant garb. I point at him with one of the revolvers and ask, "Why doesn't he have to wear the religious head piece?" My friend has no answers for me. Also, I seem to be talking in a British accent and I'm not sure why.

           We make our way back towards the city gates where I had entered. I'm good and pissed now because I seem to have been singled out to wear this ridiculous headpiece. I'm noticing that some of the objects in my dream are now modern again. For example, I can see a glass top table surrounded my upholstered office chairs on wheels in an otherwise Roman Antiquity setting. As we are leaving the city, we are once again stopped by the religious police. Same guy as before. This time I am not restrained by the big thug, he’s not even there this time, but the priest guy demands to see my gun. I hand it to him (I only appear to have one gun now. I don’t know what happened to the other one). He looks at it in amazement, having never seen a gun before. Then he grabs it by the hand grip and points the barrel right at my face. "Hey, whoa, be careful there!" I say to him. That's not a toy. I'm holding my hands up as I talk calmly to him. Then I pull a lightning fast judo move on him that gets me my gun back. Suddenly it is I who am pointing the gun at him. As he stands there with a shocked look on his face, I sense a presence sneaking up behind me. I spin around quickly to discover I am now pointing the gun at....wait for it....Gene fucking Wilder dressed in character as Willy Wonka. How the fuck my brain came up with this, I don't know. He's standing right in front of me and giving me a very sinister look, as if to say, there's no way you can escape. I shove the barrel of my revolver in his mouth and threaten to blow his head off, but this doesn't faze him. With my gun in his mouth he says, "Go ahead, kill me, it won't make a difference." So I pull the gun out of his mouth and point it at his feet instead. I say to him, "Okay, well how about I wound you instead," and I threaten to shoot his feet. This causes him to become very concerned. He does NOT want me to shoot his feet, and he lets us pass.

           We exit the city gate, but now it's like we're in a modern day shopping mall. There are walkways, escalators, kiosks and glass store fronts. People are milling about all around us, now dressed in modern day clothes. I am the only one who is still dressed like a Roman civilian from Antiquity. As we walk further into the mall, I exasperatingly ask my friend, "Are we outside of the Goddamn city yet?!" Then I grab the stupid religious headpiece from my head and angrily throw it to the ground. My friend laughs and says to me, "Ha ha ha, I guess you've finished the book then, eh?" I'm not sure what this means. I think he might be talking about a religious text. As we continue to walk, we pass a doctor who is dressed in a white lab coat. He is talking to a female about something. The female seems very concerned. I try to hear what they're talking about, but I can't make it out. My friend asks me, "Well, where should we go now?" I tell him that I'd like to see the fountains. For some reason I think there are some interactive fountains somewhere in the mall that we need to find. I think this might come from a shopping center that I visited in real life in Honolulu a long time ago that actually did have an interactive fountain in it. You could press buttons to make it do different things. Why I'm thinking about it now, I don't know. Anyway, then I suggest to my friend that we should try the upper level, as we haven't been there yet, and we head up an escalator.

           I must have awakened shortly thereafter, because this is all I remember. Normally, I can attribute a lot of the things I see in my dreams to things I have just seen or experienced in real life. This dream had a lot of weird stuff in it though. There is some stuff in there that I can account for, but it's stuff that I haven't thought about, seen, or experienced for many years. So my brain must be really reaching back into the recesses for content in this one.  

#dreams

[micaramel]

Artist: Zak Prekop

Venue: Essex Street, New York

Date: April 29 – June 17, 2018

Click here to view slideshow

Full gallery of images, press release and link available after the jump.

Images:

Images courtesy of the artist and Essex Street, New York

Press Release:

I can tell you what I was thinking for some of the other titles too. Bösendorfer is the kind of piano Cecil Taylor played so it’s titled for him. I actually planned on that title before he died, because I saw an incredible video of him playing one, and I had been thinking about him as an inspiration for more complex form. And I have just been loving his music, the buried melody. Burrow Plan refers to pathways in paintings, but also the groundhogs that live around our house. We saw one carrying a baby groundhog across the yard, then go back for another one, maybe because the burrow flooded after a big rain. I looked at some cross section diagrams of their burrows – they have two entrances and at least two rooms. Ullmann is for Jacob Ullmann, a German composer of really quiet music. I like the album called Fremde Zeit a lot. Two Hour Weather refers to the two hour drive to our house from the city and the change in climate that occurs in that short distance. But it’s more generally about shifting weather that I am so much more aware of where I live now. The fact that the painting looks kind of like a snowstorm wasn’t an intentional connection, I really didn’t notice that until later. Mazza is for Loren MazzaCane Connors. I was just struck by his music while painting one day, but was also thinking of him making music with Parkinson’s disease while I was feeling bad about my back, painting tiny dots. Outside Recording refers to field recordings but more just to the sounds of nature around our house, the kind of incidents scattered in a field that I see in my painting and hear in space and in music. That is also behind the title of AM Music. I’ve been listening to AMM’s music, particularly their first recording, AMMMusic, which I just changed a little for my title. Their music has the feeling of incidents in a field that create structure over time (over scale in painting.) Emahoy is for the pianist Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou. Tanager is a bird. Before and After has two reasons, one being a little vague but related to the duality of the black and white in this painting, the shadow and anti-shadow and afterimage and a kind of time related to a solarized photograph, where a second instant of light changes what happened on account of a first instant of light. It’s also from Brian Eno’s Before and After Science. I watched a documentary about him recently and one of the commentators retold an anecdote where Eno went to a recording studio with a bunch of Cage-ian chance operations to apply to his musical sketches but found that he was really disappointed with the results! I thought it was a funny misinterpretation of John Cage, to aesthetically judge results of chance, but I have felt that same way many times. I think of results as experience, the viewer’s experience but also mine, after I’ve finished a painting and have forgotten a lot about making it. The Pace of Big Fun. Self explanatory except to know that Big Fun is a Miles Davis album, great pace. March is for the month of March and I just like the opacity of that word. I really felt in the depths of this show in March and also the depths of winter even though it should have started to end by then. For some reason that came to me a year or so ago as the name I might use for any music I make on my own, if I ever start doing that. I thought back and really did feel like music and weather (nature) were on my mind as much as anything else while making this show, so I tried to derive titles from that. Ok talk later, Zak

Link: Zak Prekop at Essex Street

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from Contemporary Art Daily http://bit.ly/2Mm79YO

#micaramel

[billdecker]

2018.

 Here we are with the films list again. Bold = watched first time. 

Films.

The English Patient

The BFG

Anna Karenina [1967]

King Kong [2005]

54

Henry VIII and his Six Wives [1972]

The Disaster Artist

Napoleon Dynamite

The Addams Family

Kong: Skull Island

Justice League

The Addams Family Values

Johnny English

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Wayne’s World

Lady Bird

Westworld

Carol

Green Lantern 

England is Mine

Rush Hour

Pride and Prejudice [2005]

Call Me By Your Name

The Greatest Showman

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Dante’s Peak

Only Lovers Left Alive

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Blade Runner

Moonrise Kingdom

Clue

Get Smart

Darkest Hour

Blade Runner 2049

Lost in Translation

The Talented Mr. Ripley

The Lego Movie

Anchorman

The Shape of Water

Get Out

San Andreas

The Beguiled

Lady Chatterley’s Lover [1981]

Interview With a Vampire

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Song to Song

Atonement

La La Land

Drop Dead Fred

Attack the Block

Another Mother’s Son

I, Tonya

The Sense of an Ending

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Cold Mountain

Step Up

The Founder

The Fugitive

The Promise

Papadopoulos and Sons

Rob Roy

The Florida Project

Professor Marston and the Wonder Women

Head in the Clouds

Crooked House

Miami Vice [2006]

Miss Sloane

Molly’s Game

Battle of the Sexes

Half of a Yellow Sun

A Quiet Passion

Lady Jane

Anne of a Thousand Days

Mars Attacks!

Zoolander

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Nina

Pele: Birth of a Legend

2001: A Space Odyssey

A Futile and Stupid Gesture 

The Mask

Phantom Thread

Black Panther

Eyes Wide Shut

The Death of Stalin

Baywatch

Paddington 2

Wonder Woman

Star Trek [2009]

Star Trek Into Darkness

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Star Trek Beyond

Denial

Chariots of Fire

Captain America: The First Avenger

Iron Man

The Incredible Hulk

Borg vs McEnroe

Iron Man 2

Thor

Avengers Assemble

Iron Man 3

Thor: The Dark World

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Guardians of the Galaxy

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 2

Ant-Man

Captain America: Civil War 

Doctor Strange

Spider-Man: Homecoming

Thor: Ragnarok

War Horse

God’s Own Country

In Bruges

The Big Sick

The Towering Inferno

Magnolia

Our Souls at Night 

Dog Day Afternoon

Willow

Roman Holiday

Sabrina

Annihilation 

North by Northwest

The Emoji Movie

Coco

Grease

Dirty Dancing

Captain Fantastic

The Wicker Man

This is Spinal Tap

Magic Mike XXL

Come Sunday

The Dark Tower

Bill

Avengers: Infinity War

Loving Vincent

Mansfield Park

Three Men and a Little Lady

Oliver!

Rough Night

Avatar

One Last Dance

Girls Trip

Alex and the List

The Dambusters

The Mummy [2017]

London

The Damned United

The Wedding Video

Deadpool

Enter the Dragon

Atomic Blonde

The Red Shoes

The Great Gatsby [2013]

Bram Stoker’s Dracula

South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut

Morris: A Life With Bells On

Boss Baby

Solo: A Star Wars Story

Kenny

All About Eve

Lethal Weapon

Lethal Weapon 2

Final Portrait

The Little Mermaid

The Huntsman: Winter’s War

Men in Black 3

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life

Tomb Raider [2018]

Crocodile Dundee

Jabberwocky

Legend

Lethal Weapon 3

The Witches

Down With Love

Clash of the Titans [1981]

Clash of the Titans [2010]

I Give it a Year

Terminal

Where the Wild Things Are

The Handmaiden

The Muppet Movie [1979]

Brakes

Ready Player One

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom

A Wrinkle in Time

Breathe

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets

Eagle vs Shark

Farenheit 451 [2018]

Picnic at Hanging Rock

Mission Impossible

Mission Impossible II

Mission Impossible III

The Saint [2017]

JFK

Ocean’s 8

Deadpool 2

Falling Down

Duck Butter

Peter Rabbit

44 Inch Chest

You Instead

The Deep Blue Sea

Not Another Happy Ending

Punch Drunk Love

The Fast and The Furious

2 Fast 2 Furious

The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift

Fast & Furious

Fast Five

Fast & Furious 6

Furious 7

The Fate of the Furious

Geostorm

Ant-Man and the Wasp

Escape to Victory

Porcupine Lake

The Snowman

The Incredibles

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again

Daphne

Ingrid Goes West

One Day

My Neighbor Totoro

There Will Be Blood

Rampage

Goodbye Christopher Robin

Incredibles 2

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before

Belle de Jour

Mission Impossible - Fallout

The Spy Who Dumped Me 

The Meg

Little Ashes

Meet Joe Black

The King of Comedy

Jason and the Argonauts

Flash Gordon

Odette

Strictly Ballroom

Into the Woods

Cars 3

The Book of Life

Murder on the Orient Express [2017]

Kath & Kimderella

Madame Bovary

X-Men: First Class

X-Men: Days of Future Past

X-Men: Apocalypse

All the Money in the World

Quincy

The Post

Becoming Bond

Early Man

Little Women [1994]

Dangerous Liaisons

The Party

Operation Finale 

Nappily Ever After

What’s New Pussycat?

Saved!

A Star is Born [1976]

Modern Life is Rubbish

Jaws

The Mercy

Swept from the Sea

Permission

Venom

A Star is Born [2018]

Far and Away

Heat

Jane Eyre

Braveheart

Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool

Juliet, Naked

First Man

Christopher Robin

Vincent and Theo

Pollock

Bohemian Rhapsody

One More Time With Feeling

Interlude in Prague

The Mask of Zorro

The Legend of Zorro 

You, Me, and Him

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms 

Crazy Rich Asians

Bobby [2016]

Outlaw King

Space Jam

They Shall Not Grow Old

The Grinch [2018]

The Big Lebowski 

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

Mulan

The Battle of the River Plate

They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead

My Generation

Batman Begins

Being John Malkovich

Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone

Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets

Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire

Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix

Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows - Part One

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows - Part Two

Widows

Immortal Beloved

Basquiat 

Goya’s Ghosts

The Madness of King George

Charade

Star Wars: A New Hope

Stars Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

Stars Wars: Attack of the Clones

Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Star Wars: The Last Jedi

Star Wars: Rogue One

The Polar Express

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Dr. No

From Russia With Love 

Goldfinger

Thunderball

You Only Live Twice

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

Diamonds Are Forever

Live and Let Die

The Man With the Golden Gun

The Spy Who Loved Me

Moonraker

For Your Eyes Only

Octopussy

A View to a Kill

The Living Daylights

Licence to Kill

Goldeneye

Tomorrow Never Dies

The World is Not Enough 

Die Another Day 

Casino Royale

Quantum of Solace

Skyfall

Spectre

Superbob

Greenfingers

Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle

A Christmas Prince

Aquaman

Love, Cecil

A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding

The Man Who Invented Christmas

Copying Beethoven

The Party’s Just Beginning 

Point Break

Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa

The Sound of Music

The Muppet Christmas Carol

The Muppets

Cars 2

The Holiday

A Bad Moms Christmas

The Holiday Calendar

The Christmas Chronicles

Nativity

Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger

Arthur Christmas

Bobby Robson: More Than a Manager

Zootropolis

Mary Poppins

The Good Dinosaur

Trolls

Rise of the Guardians

Bros: After the Screaming Stops

The Beatles: Eight Days a Week - The Touring Years

Get Carter [1971]

Bottle Rocket

Turbo

Closer

Nothing Like a Dame

Bolt

Make Us Dream

Die Hard

How to Train Your Dragon 2

Porridge

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Books.

A Book For Her - Bridget Christie

Hickory Dickory Dock - Agatha Christie

Bright Star - John Keats

The Oberon Book of Comic Monologues for Women - Katy Wix

The Oberon Book of Comic Monologues for Women: Volume 2 - Katy Wix

Slaughterhouse 5 - Kurt Vonnegut

Division Street - Helen Mort

The Victorian Guide to Sex - Fern Riddell

A Woman’s Work - Harriet Harman

Help - Simon Amstell

The Princess Diarist - Carrie Fisher

Selected Poems - Sylvia Plath

Ariel - Sylvia Plath

The ‘If You Prefer a Milder Comedian Please Ask For One’ EP - Stewart Lee

The Rachel Papers - Martin Amis

Parker Pyne Investigates - Agatha Christie

Bone - Yrsa Daley-Ward

Pages For You - Sylvia Brownrigg

The Sun and Her Flowers - Rupi Kaur

Different for Girls: A Girl’s Own True-Life Adventures in Pop - Louise Wener

A Single Man - Christopher Isherwood

A Room of One’s Own - Virginia Woolf

Repeal the 8th - Una Mullally

Why Not Socialism? - G.A. Cohen

The Chaos of Longing - K.Y. Robinson

High-Rise - J.G. Ballard

Animal Farm - George Orwell

Fully Coherent Plan - David Shrigley

The Lesser Bohemians - Eimear McBride

The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole aged 13 3/4 - Sue Townsend

Hera Lindsay Bird - Hera Lindsay Bird

Submarine - Joe Dunthorne

In the Penal Colony - Franz Kafka

Babette’s Feast - Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) 

The Expelled - Samuel Beckett

Youth - Joseph Conrad

The Life of Rylan - Rylan Clark-Neal

Autumn - Ali Smith

The Cornet-Player Who Betrayed Ireland - Frank O’Connor

Two Gallants - James Joyce

Teaching my Mother How to Give Birth - Warsan Shire

Selected Poems - Edgar Allan Poe

Casino Royale - Ian Fleming

Frankenstein - Mary Shelley

The Door in the Wall - H.G Wells

Terra Incognita - Vladimir Nabokov

Dirty Pretty Things - Michael Faudet

Women  & Power: A Manifesto - Mary Beard

Dear Illusion - Kingsley Amis

Bitter Sweet Love - Michael Faudet

Smoke & Mirrors - Michael Faudet

Girl Meets Boy - Ali Smith

Pre-Raphaelites - Heather Birchall

Conspiracy - Charlotte Greig

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams

Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray

Sex and Rage - Eve Babitz

Scoop - Evelyn Waugh

The Letters of Vincent Van Gogh - edited by Mark Roskill

Role Models - John Waters

The Great Gatsby - F. Scott Fitzgerald

How Not To Be a Boy - Robert Webb

Animal - Sara Pascoe

Absolute Pandemonium - Brian Blessed

Eileen - Ottessa Moshfegh

A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness

A Handful of Dust - Evelyn Waugh

Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters - Jane Austen and Ben H. Winters

Normal People - Sally Rooney

Feminists Don’t Wear Pink - Scarlet Curtis and Others. 

Parsnips, Buttered - Joe Lycett

The Humans - Matt Haig

The Machine Stops - E.M. Forster

Ivanhoe - Sir Walter Scott

Poems for a World Gone to Shit - Various

[runawaykitsune]

Cyrus is... Safe?

More of the Into The Darkness madness. This was written by the Makari family rper. >.> 

Sadness ahead 

It had started. The war between two clans was about to come to an end and both sides were happy about it. Pain and Agony would soon be out of their lives, and they would finally be able to resume their lives without trying to kill one another.

The field they were standing in was light green, the grass was slightly overgrown. The brush around the edges were housing many animals, though they were gone because of the commotion. There were two parties standing in the field, on opposite sides. One was over forty people, The Pheron family. They were the keepers of peace and destroyers of supernaturals within the city. The second party was only a single Vampire with a young male tied by his side.

“Giovanni is completely unharmed, my friends,” The vampire spoke up after a long silence, “No need to be scared for his safety.” The vampire that spoke up was the head of the Makari Family. His name was Xedric. This lone man stood against several hunters that could easily kill him, yet he stood firm in this field because he held the one child that could stop this all.

This one vampire lost his entire family except for one brother to these Hunters. He may never forgive them, but he just wants to end the bloodshed in Vallaria, “Araceli. Do you apologize for your actions against my family?” “Of course I don’t! Your family has created so much chaos!” The mother of the boy started to cry as she spoke.

“Send one of your clan mates over here to get the poor boy then,” Xedric grinned widely as he pushed the boy forward, “Giovanni, go back to your family.”

Cecil’s skin crawled as the vampire spoke his son’s name, “Don’t you dare lay a hand on my son again.” The older male started to walk forward. He walked passed all of the clan and into the center of the field.

As the gagged male made contact with his father, Cecil quickly tore the cloth around his mouth off and gasped as he removed his bonds then hugged him closely, his eldest son returning the embrace. Xedric watched in amusement at the display, knowing that he had won this round.

His eyes followed around the edge of the woods were some of the Pheron’s had decided to surround him, try to divert the exchange just to kill him. He knew it was going to fail.

The moment one of the assassins leapt from the bushes, there was a shot that rang around the field causing several birds to scatter from the trees. Xedric noticed the boy and his parents start to run. Meanwhile when he turned his head, all he saw was the female hunter lying dead in the grass, a piece of her skull was missing.

“I would wait you know. The show has just begun!” Xedric smirked as he raised his arms to the moonlit sky, “Die you bastards!” The clan started to drop one by one from the mysterious bullets. All Xedric did was smile and laugh at the destruction. Minutes passed and the main Pheron family stood there in the field, Araceli and Cecil both holding onto Giovanni who seemed ready to lunge at the vampire himself, as Xedric approached, “You think that you can just kill my family and get away with it. You think you can murder my parents. Murder my three other siblings and just.. Get… AWAY… WITH IT!?”

Xedric raised his hand quickly as Araceli stood, he quickly backhanded her to the ground, “Cecil. Stand and face me like the man you are.”

The moment the older male stood, a bullet shot and went straight through his chest, causing him to step back and fall to the ground next to his son Giovanni, who turned and knelt at his father’s side then looked to the vampire. All words escaping him. Xedric smirked and looked at the hunter’s wife as she started to scream. His eyes were filled with hurt, he didn’t want to kill these hunters, but it was the only way to avenge his lost family.

“I am sorry Giovanni. But you are mine now,” Xedric grabbed him by the shirt and yanked him back next to him. The young hunter tried to pull from his grasp but was held in place, his back against his captor.

The next thing to happen in that field, Giovanni couldn’t even see, as Xedric put his hand over his eyes. The young man began to swear, there was another bang which caused the hunter to jump and quickly put his hand to his mouth to keep himself quiet. A soft rustle was heard, one last bang rang out and Xedric pulled the young hunter closer to him, as if to show comfort despite the now deafening silence in the field.

#oc #fanfic #rp based #Into The Darkness rp #Xedric Makari #Cyrus Tirado #Pheron family #Giovanni Pheron #my son #my heart #</3 #angst #how has he forgiven you #I mean. At least he covered his eyes #Fuck you Lucius