On planet Earth, last Sunday marked this year's vernal equinox – the official kickoff for spring in the northern hemisphere. Those of us (and I don't mean me) who have been shoveling snow and dealing with frozen nose hairs for several months probably couldn't be happier.True, we've already discussed this seasonal topic here at CIC, but a lot has changed since last year – including us! So, authors and characters, if you live on Earth, what does spring mean to you? Time to clean the house? Plant a garden? Shop for bathing suits? Attend outdoor festivals?
Of course, if your planet or realm is elsewhere, do you even have different seasons? If so, what are they like?
267 comments:
1 – 200 of 267 Newer› Newest»Oy. Spring. Young love.
As if we don't have enough of that around here already.
No kidding, Marc.
Then again, can we really ever have TOO much young love?
Around here? Maybe.
I mean, there is more to life than young love... uh, right?
Course, I'm only saying that because I'm not exactly young anymore. Still, love (young or otherwise) is pretty much the best part of life.
How did we jump from spring to love so fast?
I blame you, Marc. No. Scratch that. I blame Aidan.
How is it my fault? I don't know anything about love.
I used to like spring because I could get on my skateboard and motorcycle.
Now it just means the battlefield won't be so damn cold. Not that I feel it that much, but it keeps everyone else from whining.
Aye, and there's the surfing. And riding in the jeep with the top down.
Spring is when the lambs are the most vulnerable to being stolen. The wool from our region is extremely valuable. So it means extra vigilance for me and my men.
But, as Aidan said, at least it's not so cold.
mmmm. lamb.
Devi, I think love is overrated. It makes people do strange things, and usually ends up badly.
Take Marenya and Aidan, for example. Both nice youngsters, but absolutely mismatched.
What she really needs is for someone else to distract her.
Like you perhaps?
Perhaps. I'm working on it. Last AND longest, right Aidan?
I'm pretty sure I'm the distraction for now, Faldur. But you know. Give it your best shot. Best man win. All that bullshit.
Still. Not like you haven't had your chance at her.
But you haven't saved her life lately, either. I've had a few successes there, too.
Oh, and, just for your information, she's quite cuddly in the morning. Especially with pine needles in her hair.
Pine needles. Sorry I missed it. Not.
Hey Marenya? You around?
I was wondering if you wanted to have a walk and take a look at those cute lambs. Can we pet them?
In my experience, some lambs like to be petted, Aidan. But I wouldn't get between them and Nighfala. Sounds like a recipe for disaster.
Spring? Not when I just got dumped with a snowstorm last night. Seriously, the weather is not my friend right now.
I think Nighfala is Marenya's friend. And I've always got my bow.
You want to come to So Cal, Galadrial? The weather is gorgeous and the beach is warm.
Spring used to be a sign of hope, but this winter has gone on so long I don't know if it will return..maybe we'll all be murdered first
Perish the though, Abigail! I'd like to think that, at the very least, I'll survive long enough to see the flowers bloom aboveground.
Oops. What I meant to say was... "Perish the thought."
Frankly, I don't know how one would go about perishing a "though" - sigh.
I enjoyed picking those needles out of her hair, Aidan. By the by, how was your shoulder rub last night?
Abigail, you sound like you could use some protection.
Aren't you busy watching sheep, Faldur?
Seriously though, I can always send a tem to help Abigail. Let us know.
-Aidan
Yes, it's time I went. Good evening, everyone.
Ladies, good night.
Aden fath, everyone. What a night! Thunder and rain. I feel bad for the newborns. It's not a very nice way to spend one of the first nights of your life.
You look cold, Marenya. I'll get you a hot drink. - Aidan
Thank you. You could just warm me up with a quick hug, too.
I like thunderstorms actually. They sound so awesome against the mountains where I'm from. Do you want me to kick up the fire more?
You're pretty cold. Maybe Not so quick, yeah?
Kick up the fire. Ha!
Certainly. How are you tonight?
Slow is good, too. Mmmm.. that's nice.
I'm sorry I was in such a foul mood last night.
I didn't even notice. What bad mood? I figured it was me in the bad mood But I'm doing much better now that you're here next to me.
I wonder how things are with Cassidy.
Me, too. I saw Faldur on his way out, so we have a while before he barges in again.
Thats good. I don't think he's very happy with me right now.
This is supposed to be about spring. So tell me what you like best about spring.
I like how the days are warm and the nights are perfect for sitting by the fire.
I like the way everything seems to come alive.. there's always some surprise. Like a nest of baby rabbits I found this morning. Or a whole field of grape hyacinths, that made the grass look purple. Or just waking up and seeing everything so green, the world almost hurts to look at it.
I sometimes feel so alive, I might burst. And then after a long day of chores, I'm glad to be with a friend.
That was really feeble. Why can't I stop thinking about Cassidy? I wonder how tall she is. I wonder how beautiful she is. I wonder if she can shoot and fight.
I wish I could see all that. Sentinel has me busy during the day. But maybe you could show me. I'll ditch Cassidy and we'll get away for an afternoon. Or maybe at night. I could bring warm cloaks and you know, hold you if you get cold.
I'm told I have a lot of body heat.
You do. And at the moment, so do I.
Aidan... stop talking...
Hey, everyone, popcorn time!
Hello, Ginger.
Gryphon feathers!
Why is everyone here? I mean, you know I like you all but maybe not right NOW.
Thanks for the popcorn break, Ginger. I fear that things were getting a bit racy - again.
Oops! Sorry. I'll just take my popcorn and tiptoe out of here.
Excuse me, but maybe THEY'RE the ones who should be leaving! I'm hungry, darn it!
Here, take the popcorn! Don't hurt me, girl. You've had too many nuts and berries. I've got some nice cheese souffle in the kitchen. Would you like some? I can probably scare up a salad too.
And cheesecake.
hey I'm not thinking about Cassidy right now and neither should you. We need to focus on getting rid of everybody, yeah?
And she has nothing on you.
Yeah. You guys should go to the kitchen and eat.
Oh, no, Ginger! Please don't misunderstand me. I'd never hurt you, silly woman - and I'd never demand food from you. I'm just very grateful for your offerings - and grumpy because we're the ones being "asked" to leave. Harumph!
So, what *are* you thinking about, telepath?
I see your point, Meg. I mean, when Michael and I are feeling amorous, we don't air it all here. Some things are meant to be private. Ahem.
Then again, I am the one who told Aidan to go for it. What was I thinking?!
It's too wet out there to do anything. No one's going to be making any raids tonight.
I'm soaked. Thank Heaven for the fire... NOT AGAIN!
isn't it obvious?
Well, what did you expect, Faldur? You left just as Marenya showed up. She's freezing, and Aidan's apparently a hotblood, whatever that means.
Sigh. Heyya Faldur. The othersnare eating over there. In the kitchen.
It means he's a demon and can't control himself, Olivia. And he's obviously put HER under some kind of spell.
Just move aside slowly, Hotblood.
Yeah, that's what he calls me.
There's no reason to act like this, Captain. Why don't you just go have a cup of tea or something?
Yes, why doesn't everyone just come into the kitchen for a nice spot of tea, right? I'm sure I can whip up something... chocolate seems in order... Care to give me a hand, Olivia? Nutmeg?
I don't want a cup of tea.
I can't do magic or spells Faldur. And I wouldn't if I could. Not with Marenya. She knows that.
And I'll move, not because you told me to, but because this whole intrusion is making her uncomfortable.
That's better. And I hardly think we are intruding on our own common room.
Right. Well if no one else wants any tea, maybe I'll just break open my bottle of cooking sherry... see ya!
Oh, Aidan. I'm sorry.
Why don't you and I just have a little chat outside, Aidan?
Oops. Looks like I was too late to help Ginger. We've lost her to the sherry. Guess that's what I get for taking a bathroom break.
That's okay, Liv. I'll help you with the tea. Indy and I could use some right about now.
No need to apologize, Marenya.
I really don't have anything to say right now--
All right, all right. I guess we're going outside.
There's plenty in here for everyone, Olivia. I just thought that something stronger than tea was in order.
Don't go anywhere Marenya. I will be Right back. Hopefully in one piece-- jeez that was a joke Faldur. I'm coming, you don't have to yank.
Aidan, let me explain something to you. This is my sword. It was made for my by the Prince, and is perfectly balanced. It's like an extension of my being. I don't have to think to use it. I just do.
So right now, my sword and I think you need to stay away from Marenya. Are we understood?
I don't think a sword thinks. But Marenya does. And I know she wants to be with me
I gotta ask, who died and made you God?
I should have known you wouldn't back down so easily.
Do you truly care for her, then?
Damn. That sword bit works really well on insolent village lads.
Oh, Faldur! You're not doing the "me and my sword" bit, are you? Just let him go before Marc and Jason show up and beat the life out of you.
Well yeah. I thought it was obvious.
Almost as much as you do.
Ha! Now who's got the precious expression?
My ken, remember? I know what's going on on with you. I mean seriously, is this about me or cuz you know you fucked up?
And, while we're having this little heart to heart, I'll give you another tidbit. You don't give that kitten nearly enough credit.
So yeah. Can you put thatnthing away now? Jason and Marc will come running if they sense Im under threat and all I need is them chiming in.
i guess you heard all that, Marenya?
So truly, you thought a simple rope would hold us, cousin?
Pathetic.
Oy, the swords out, Jay. beautiful weapon, that.
Sigh. What's he done now Faldur?
A kiss is apparently a crime, Marc. And conversation by the fire.
Aye it is, in these lands. Off we go, Aidan. You can return another eve when things aren't so heated. No I won't hear argument. You've had quite enough mischief for one night.
Lady Marenya, Captain. Good evening to you.
Well, I guess it's just us, Meg and Indy. Care for some tea? I know I, for one, need some caffeinated fortification before tackling the spring cleaning. Beach houses can get awfully sandy.
The point is this, Hotblood: If you want her, do something about it. Ask her uncle for permission before you start cuddling in corners. Ask her mother. Make it formal.
But you can't, can you? Because you and she will never be together. You come from different worlds.
I'm in her world. You aren't, and there isn't a damn thing you can do about it.
Faldur, stop it! Just leave him alone. It's my fault; I started it. If you want to be angry with someone, be angry with me.
Aidan, what are you talking about? What do you mean "he screwed up?"
Faldur? Why are you looking at me that way?
Would someone tell me what is going on?
Marc, Jason! Thank Heaven you're here.
"Way down yonder in the land of cotton, Old times there are not forgotten..."
Hello, everyone! There's shtill some sherry left. Would you care for shome?
Beach houshes do get very shandy, Olivia. I have to clean mine all the time...whoops! How clumsy of me.
No Jay. Let me go. I can handle this.
You're in her world, yeah. So did you go get her uncle's permission before pulling pine needles out of her hair?
I got to say, not the best comeback I ever heard from you, mate.
Faldur knows exactly what I mean, don't you? And I'm not going anywhere. Unlike you, I'll let her make up her own mind.
As a matter of fact, he did put her in my care. No I have not asked permission to court Marenya. That was...a unique circumstance.
Oh. Oh my. Are you talking about the night we were attacked, and everyone was hurt and scattered, and you went to find the others, and finally passed out? That night?
Yes. That would be the one.
Marenya, I don't know how to say...
Aszkenai, Marenya. Aszkanai el folmendur. I've been an ass, and I can't bear to lose you again.
I'm on my knees in the rain. I'm not as young as Aidan. I'm certainly not as handsome. But I'm here, and I'll always be if you want me.
I don't know what to say. I need to ... to just go inside now.
Well, that went brilliantly.
Olivia, Devi,
S'not fair. She has two men out there fighting for her, and I don't even have one.
My knight in shining armor turned out to be a shmuck.
Marenya, just stop a minute. Come over here. Please.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry for all the things I said. I was afraid. I wanted so much not to love you but I do. I feel as if part of me is gone whenever you aren't here. I know I don't deserve a second chance, but I'm asking anyway. Please.
Why didn't you say something sooner? Why didn't you...
It's hard to talk when you...
M'aszkenai el folmendur. Te marenken a kelfa.
Yeah, apparently my work here is done. - Aidan
Sad, mate?
I. I.
I don't know. Its not like I didn't see it coming.
I want a drink. A lot of them.
Ginger? Got any more wine?
-aidan
Jason? You rang?--
Oh. Hello, Aidan. Wait, why are you here?
What's going on here? Who are all these people? I thought you were overseeing the battle at the Omans house.
-Cassidy
Seven hells, Jay. You didn't. Tell me this is a bad dream.
-aidan
So I'm a bad dream? Lovely sentiment, Lord Seer. I thought after the other night...but appaerntly I was miastaken. -Cassidy
No, jeez, your highness. Not everything is about you. Ok some things, but. . That's not what I meant, well, not exactly.
In just having a collosally shitty day and there's no whiskey. Where is the damn whiskey?
-Aidan
No worries, Aidan. I've brought some whiskey. Care to share?
By the way, has anyone seen my wife? Last I heard, she was having a girls' night out.
Here I am, shweetie! *hiccup*
Damn, Ginge, this ish shome good sherry!
You should try my chocolate rum cake!
Thanks Michael. Maybe there's some wherenwe can go sit, get out of the way of all this... You know.
Hi, Aidan.
Aren't you going to introduce your friends, Aidan?
Marenya... Hi.
This is, um. Cassidy. Cassidy, Marenya.
It's a pleasure to meet you. I.. I.. think perhaps I should be going now. I have to check on the lambs.
Hell Marenya I'm sorry. I just wanted to hang out. I'm sorry. Fuck.
You didn't tell me how beautiful she was. I'm sorry about... you know. I still care for you. It's just that..he and I... well.
Aden Fath, Aidan.
Can I come? I mean, I wanted to see them...
Or maybe it's not a good idea. Sorry.
Don't stay on my account.
Yes, of course you can come, if your guest doesn't mind excusing you for a few minutes? I promise not to keep him long.
Don't worry
Good Evening, my Lady. What brings such a ray of loveliness to our humble common room tonight?
I'll handle her Aidan. Just go have your chat.
Please go, Aidan.
Cute lambs. If I'd known we could be alone here I would have brought you here days ago.
May I offer you a glass of our excellent brandy? It is a specialty of this region.
Small sips. It's powerful stuff.
Would you? I wouldn't say we're exactly alone. There must be at least fifty ewes and lambs.
I'm sorry about what's happened. I don't like you any less, it's just...I've loved him my whole life.
You've been so kind to me. I feel horrible.
You should hate me. At least yell or something.
Thank you sir. You're most kind. Such a nasty night. Jason? Marcus? Aren't you accompanying your Sworn.
No my lady. He's fine for the moment. Whiskey Michael? Good stuff that
I'm not really the yelling kind. More destructive...
Look, I kind of started this whole thing to play with Faldur. Hes so obviously. You know.
And I, you know. I guess it's my nature to screw with people
Anyway, it's not your fault I ended up really liking you.
I have to say the worst thing is Faldur being so damn nice. I liked it way better when he was ready to wack me with his sword
Anyway, can you send Jason out here? I'm going to head out. I'm already in trouble cuz Cassidy caught me here. Marc can escort her home.
Just tell me this. Is he going to be all formal with you now? Court you or whatever?
If he ... I mean if he hurts you he'll have to answer to me. And I don't give pretty little speeches before I hurt someone.
That's funny. I thought I was the one who started it.
Sure, I'll tell Jason. And, take care of yourself, okay?
*sigh* Yes, it will be all formal. He doesn't really need to ask permission. Everyone practically expects it. I suppose that's part of why he refused.
And, just so you know, that whole "pine needle" thing. That's all it was. Nothing happened. We were just having a really bad night. I don't know what he told you, but we fell asleep together. That's all.
Maybe you did start it he'll, I don't even remember
I don't care. I thought it was funny. I mean to me it's really weird you guys haven't um gotten um. Close. You know. We don't have the same customs you do. It's pretty much do what you want with who you want.
Which is probably better for me anyway.
I had better fetch Jason. Good night.
What is taking them so long? Aid an behaves as if we're not at war.
I don't think that will be a problem any longer, my lady.
Thanks. See you.
Let him have a little harmless relaxation. A kid like that needs some fresh air once in a while. So, are you a warrior as well as a lady?
Bye. (kisses his cheek very quickly)
Stay safe, Aidan. Please, stay safe.
Jason, Aidan wants you.
Well, good, now that that's settled, would someone please pass the chocolate rum cake? Sounds delicious. Thanks, Ginger!
Not any longer. My father recently died and so I'm rather stuck in a strategic role. Rather like Aidan. Our frustration in that might be the only thing we have in common.
What is your rank here, sir? It seems a peaceful land.
It is now. I could tell you tales that would curl your hair. But then, you probably have plenty of your own to tell.
Excuse me, then. Marc, will you see lady Cassidy home? Thanks.
All right mate?
I'm fine. Get off me.
Can we go home? I'd like to get drunk and get laid.
Sounds utterly reasonable under the circumstances. Marc's got Cassidy.
Tales, yes. Very recently.
In fact Aidan just singlehandedly fought off six of a new legion of winged demons. He saved my life. He's actually injured, did you know? A bad cut to his midsection. 40 stitches, Marcus? And I escaped without a scratch.
As the enemy keeps bringing the fight to us, it makes me feel the fool for missing my days in the field.
you hurt her, I hurt you. Understood?
I had no idea. He never said anything. Quite a remarkable lad, Aidan. I wish I had him in my own pack.
But it sounds like you need him more.
I'd like to see you try.
Damn, why didn't you tell us you were hurt? We could have helped you.
I guess that's why you haven't jumped her yet.
I doubt he'd much like it if you knew. Aidan's odd that way. I'd consider it a personal favor if you said nothing of it, Faldur.
As he's the only one who can sense the enemy, I suppose we do rather need him. I'm certain he wishes things were different.
Um, well. Sure. Take care of him, okay? I'd better be going now, if you'll excuse me, my Lady. I need to walk Marenya home.
I wasnt ever going to do that. You really don't know me at all.
Just as well. I don't much like you being nice to me. Feels weird. And who the he'll told you I was hurt?
Oh. Fuck. Of course. Cassidy.
It's time we're off as well. Where are Aidan and Jason?
Already off, I expect. Ladies. Michael. Faldur. Let's meet again under happier circumstances next time.
Marenya... quickly. This is what I want you to do...
Aidan! Wait a moment. Don't go yet. Wait!
What do you need?
Just one last hug. I don't know when I'll see you again.
Well sure...
Faldur told you I was hurt. Nothings secret around here for long. Damn it.
I think you meant ton say thank you, right, Aidan?
Sorry, yeah. Thanks. Better to kill more demons now.
I'm an asshole. Thank you, Marenya.
Hi. Has anyone seen Aidan? I got away for a few minutes and this is usually a safe place to hide for awhile.
Hello, Kaelin. Aidan's right over there.
I'll see you home, Marenya.
I'm coming. Goodbye, Aidan, until I see you again.
That was brilliant, Marenya. I can tell you're hurting. Take it slow. Lean on me.
Ferkin! Ferkin! Ferkin! Damnithurts. Damnithurts. Damnithurts! How can he even stand up?
Thank you.
He's made of sterner stuff than you or I. He needs to be.
Better now?
Yes. Take me home, Captain. You and "your sword."
Don't start.
< I>You know I can hear you. That's why I didn't tell her, damn it.
Fix her. Now.
Hey bro. What kind of damage have you been doing today?
Unusually, I'm afraid the damage has been done to him this time.
I'm fine. Or I will be when someone refills my glass.
Yeah. Cocktails. That's what you need.
Stop talking about me. I'm fine.
Why did you cut your hair, Kae? You think you're going to get along with that one dimple?
Oh I see you're in that kind of mood.
Actually, it's so my opponents don't grab me by the hair and slam my head into the concrete.
Fuck Kae. Come home, okay? Just stop.
And isn't my glass full?
I'm close, bro. I'm going to kill Lorcan for what he did to you. Then I'll come back.
You won't come back. You know youll turn way before you ever make it out. And i cant do what we talked about. I can't.
SEVEN HELLS my glass is empty again.
Worst day ever. I think I'd better get the lad to bed.
Kaelin. Cousin. Be safe.
May you find good fortune on your path.
And you, Jason.
Aidan?
Yeah. Go get yourself killed. It'll just top off a perfect day.
Get me out of here, Jay. Please.
Oh my word! This is better than Days of Our Lives. Someone hand me a tissue. I'm gonna start bawling.
Is all the cake gone? No, there's shtill some left.
I'm still here, Ginger, if you need a shoulder. Or a ride home.
Ok Ginger, let's sort of walk... I'll just carry you then. No problem.
Your hair smells nice.
Oy. Can't turn your back for a minute on these lads. No worries, anyone who minds Ginger. I'll see her home safely.
For what that's worth.
Aidan is asleep. Gods below, what a night. Best if none of the ladies know what all went on...
Ginger! Let me take your arm, eh? We'll see you home and Kaelin can wait with you until you wake. P'raps we'll make you brekkies in the morning for once, yeah?
I'm on it. I can think of a couple of indulgers who might need a decent breakfast in the morning.
Was Aidan's night worth the day?
And then some. A face like that... Humans can't resist him.
He's not cured but he's not pining. He'll survive. Though his last words before passing out were of her. I think he'd prefer if Faldur hurt her.
*sigh*
Oh My GOD!!! Lord, I repent. I'll never drink again!
How did all these men get in my room at 2:07 IN THE MORNING??????
What did I DO???
Where's the light switch? Here it is.. Urg. Too bright.
Oh, it's just the boys. Yeah, a bunch of demons.
Sure, that's a lot better, God, isn't it? The demon I know rather than the demon I don't know.
I'm going back to sleep.
Don't worry Ginger, I have a sword, too. Sleep all, safely. I will watch through the night.
He works in mysterious ways.
...but you should probably lay off the sherry.
"Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If Azmodai before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take.
Amen."
Definitely lay off the sherry.
I'd better be getting back
Take care of Aidan. He's not used to rejection.
As always. And dont worry. He's got some steam to blow off but we'll just point him at the enemy. Take care of yourself.
Aren't we the respectable ones? Soothing ruffled feathers, watching drunk people sleep it off?
.
Unnnnh. Coffee.
I need coffee.
I wonder if this doorbell is even working.
Knock,knock. Ginger, are you there? Anyone home?
Who in the world could that be? Julie? She's supposed to be in Vegas.
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