#BPWF

[daimiyamoto]

FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN

A selection of Namor scenes in BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER (dir. Ryan Coogler, 2022)

[lesbo-tuliplvrr]

ALL OF THEM

AT ONCE

NO BREAKS‼️‼️

[talkingparrotkee]

One thing I like about MCU Shuri and also think several people sorely get wrong is that she's the more cool-headed character. She is slower to shout, panic, and anger, being relatively more laidback. Shuri would rather wall up and bury herself in her lab (M'Baku confirms this at Ramonda's funeral, and we see her doing just that in the beginning) before lashing out.

Even Ryan described how T'Challa was more hotheaded to T'Chaka's diplomat, while Shuri was the more cool and laid back one to fiery Ramonda.

We see it in her clothing styles.

We see this in the way she initially approaches things. Two key instances:

The way she first responds and confronts Namor. Shuri is still on defense at the river, but she is less combative or reactive compared to Ramonda. Shuri more quietly assesses and responds to him. Compare this to Ramonda, who immediately fires back and disregards what he says without even checking if it could possibly be true, to which Shuri has to point out some truths by empirical evidence (i.e., Ramonda dismissed him saying only they had vibranium, Shuri gently nudges her, saying he's covered in it, so that cannot be the case). A similar thing happens when she is down in Talokan with Namor. Throughout it all, Shuri kept a leveled head and bit back her tongue to think of solutions, even when things started turning south. She knew how to shut up as well rather than argue him down more (something not many people know how to do).

The way Shuri tried to extract Riri compared to Okoye. For starters, Shuri did not break into bathrooms or bring spears in Riri's dorm - she blended in and used the door. She did not make threats and give an ultimatum either. Shuri just tried to explain the urgency to Riri and draw her out without the use of physical force.

We also see it in her reactions with other characters.

In the first movie, she tells T'Challa to "calm down" when he shouts at her to drive. We also see her not care to fight T'Challa for the mantle, even if it is her birthright (she just wanted to go home and get out of a particularly uncomfortable corset). Instead, she prefers to fight alongside and as support.

Black Panther: "The Black Panther lives. And when he fights for the fate of Wakanda, I will be right there beside him."

Black Panther 2: "I was not trying to save the mantle mother, I was trying to save my brother."

For another example regarding her interactions with characters from Wakanda Forever, Riri is consistently depicted to be the more anxious and is more inclined to lose composure. Shuri, even when she's stressed or overwhelmed too, is often the one to remain composed. Shuri attempts to calm Riri down so she doesn't have a panic attack. Shuri also didn't reply when Riri started snapping at her about the FBI, only calmly working about and mapping out an escape plan.

One last particular example is with Okoye. Shuri is less quick to be defensive or shout compared to Okoye. We see it in the way Okoye commanded her to get in the car, and rather than shout back, she simply uttered quietly, "Why are you shouting at me..." Shuri didn't reply to Riri snapping, but Okoye did not let anything slide, pointing the finger back to her. During this entire exchange, Shuri was quietly observing before cutting in, saying how they needed to work together to get out of their situation.

Black Panther Wakanda Forever was her later in-character out-of-character. In other words, that unrivaled anger and snapping you saw was never her baseline. She's not an angry or vengeful person. That was the point of Ramonda, "Show him who you are," when she was hesitating killing Namor.

It was the result of her character at a breaking point. Shuri was not coping properly and dealing with frustrations she couldn't see her way out of. Shuri was struggling with spirituality. She was trying to know if her family was truly still there. She was trying to find the reason behind her failure and loss. Shuri already began cracking since T'Chaka died (see: Wakanda Files). T'Challa's death just broke her, with her narrowly holding her pieces together.

[chxxms]

SHURIRI STANS RISEEEEEEE UP NOW!!!!!!! SHURIRI ARE DATING & NOW CANON IN THE MCU BITCHHHHH WE DID IT 🥳😭🎉

[aolechan]

Namor Week 2024 @namorweek Day 4 - Piercings / Tattoos / Scars Close-Up Shots + Piercings

[laninasinamor]

you’re telling me Namor painted this?! On his super important history murals ?! 😱

[roseamongroses]

it's always the fanart i finish in a day and start on a whim that i end up posting smh.... everything else gets trapped in the drafts bin.

reference

[jordisblogg]

self care day w ur gf

shuri.u x reader

warnings: no smut, but mentions of nudity, fluff, fluff, and more fluff!)

a/n: i just have a thing for shuri taking care of reader for some reason, she would definitely do this

border by: @meorasaki

you turned you wrist to rotate the shower faucet and letting the water drain out of the tub. your body dripped, skin and hair fresh from your wash. you decided to give yourself a self care day, you had already shaved and you decided it was also time for your hair to get washed, it was getting old and was starting to stink.

you rubbed your towel down your body as you dried yourself off.

“only one more thing left..” you sighed, eyeing your exfoliation products on your counter. all you needed to do was wash your face then you could finally relax.

you wrapped your hair in a towel as you walked over to your bath robe and tied it around your waist. and just as you turned on the warm water to finish up, there was a knock on your door.

“coming!” you turned the faucet off and walked up to your door. you looked through the peephole and saw your gorgeous girlfriend standing with her hands in her pockets, looking down at her feet.

“i know you’re at the door, sithandwa sam.” she looked up at the peephole. even though you knew she couldn’t see you, you ducked.

“state your name, sweetheart.” you teased, holding back a laugh.

shuri shook her head at your antics, “shuri udaku, may i come in, please?”

“you may!” you then opened the door up for her, letting her inside but not before she engulfed you in her arms, peppering kisses over your face and neck. your giggles were like music to her ears as she picked you up, closing the door behind her with her foot.

“i missed you..” she spoke softly in your ear, you almost got goosebumps. you pulled her head back to give her a peck on the lips. “i missed you too.”

she put you down, but kept her hand on your waist.

“so what’ve you been up to today, pretty girl?” fuck, you love it when she calls you that.

“nothing, just having a self care day. all i have left to do is exfoliate— oo! and put on my coco butter," you nearly forgot. "i should probably do that first then wash my face."

"could i do it?" the question knocked you back a little. it's not like shuri hasn't seen you naked but, you never thought she would ask that, though you both have been together for a while.

"you.. want to?" your voice barely came out in a whisper, shuri could see your embarrassment but she wanted to cater to you. just imagining the feeling of her soft hands rubbing on you made your stomach turn.

"please, usana?" she clasped her hands together, giving you that pout that she knows you can't resist.

"i mean.. only if you want to-" you barely finished your sentence before shuri picked you up and placed you on your bed and then went into your bathroom to fetch your coco butter and body powder. she came back and placed you toiletries on a nearby dresser before kneeling down to your level, your knees directly in front of her while your plush thighs clenched together, concealing your womanhood from her. you watched shuri as her fingers softly took the straps of your robe, looking up at you for permission one final time. once you gave her the okay, she slowly loosened it, letting your nude body come into view.

the cold air hit your skin as the fabric fell down your shoulders. you shivered slightly and the coolness of your skin contrasted with shuri's warm kisses.

“you’re so beautiful, usana..” you let your fingers run through her curls as she came up to give you a quick peck on the lips. when she pulled away she finally took the time to study your body and its features, from your perfect breasts to your plush stomach, to your thick thighs that she would bury herself in all day, if you let her. each stretch mark, every dimple, and those beautiful hip dips. she loved all of it, she loved all of you. but you soon turned embarrassed under her intense gaze.

“shuri, stop staring!” you turned your head away at and she gave a low chuckle before kissing your tummy.

“i apologize, umntwana wam, you look so ethereal. i just love to look at you..” she cheesed as you caressed her cheek lovingly.

“thank you, baby..”

shuri gently removed your hand from her face and kissed the back of it before she reached over to your dresser and pumped your coco butter into her palm. she rubbed her hands together and began at your calves, working her way up.

you watched her as she lathered you so intently, making sure she got every part of you. she handled you so gently, you were getting lost in the act.

shuri did always have this thing where she wanted to do everything for you, even if you were very much capable to do them yourself. she stayed giving you excuses to hold you, or if she didn't she would just do it without warning. she always looked at you as if you hung the moon itself, like you were her everything. and you were. she was so sweet, and caring, and you loved her dearly.

you stared at her soft lips as she attempted to engage in conversation with you, but you were so deep in thought that you didn't hear a word she said. you didn't even here hear her tell you when she was done.

"sthandwa sam?" you blinked and noticed that she was now staring at you with an amused look, her hand rested on your knees.

"huh?"

"i said i'm done, baby.." she giggled at your confusion, and you gave a bashful look before you requested, she hand you your bath robe. you took your girlfriend by the hand and led her to your bathroom. you then ran the warm water once more, and pulled out two face towels.

"you wanna do skincare with me?" you smiled and shuri watched as you mimicked her previous actions when you gave those same pleading puppy dog eyes, and clasped hands, and, of course, getting the same result.

"sure, my love.."

you had yourselves wash and cleanse your face before you put on the facemask on your skin, ignoring shuri's whines about how it stung.

after a long, exhausting day of taking care of your body, you were now finally able to relax, this time with your girlfriend. you both placed on your bed, with you placed in between her legs as you both finished up a show you had decided to start together.

and for the icing on the cake, you snapped a cute lil photo to post on your story, with a small caption, "selfcare day w bae!" in the bottom corner.

[tenoch-hq]

Namor Week Day 7 - Free Choice Tenoch Huerta shares his thoughts about Namor | @namorweek

[t00thpaste33]

this was just for funsies before i cram for physics also sorry for the crunchy lines 🔥🔥🔥

[theattoyearchive]

Its about that time again! Are you ready for Attoye Week 2024?!

We are happy to announce that the themes and dates for this year week will be coming soon! Come celebrate Attuma and Okoye with us this summer!

[darkkittyart]

In this life and the next, I’ll always search for you. 💫🪐 🌊

(rotate phone)

Such a powerful, heartbreaking love story. Namor will always search for her. For the thread of destiny connects them throughout lifetimes. But that’s the thing… life will never let them be together. 😞

(Print now available in my shop. Link in pinned post ❤️)

[mahoganydoodles]

Thala + Sharpening this Spear by @bardocksheadband-fanfics, author’s copy.

While in Talokan, Shuri conceived Namor’s daughter and after everything that happened, she decided to keep her a secret. Unfortunately for her, Namor has been using the ocean to communicate with the child since she was born. When Thala follows the voice that has been talking to her and she finally meets her baba, she gets more than she bargained for. Her father is not only slightly unhinged, but has been pining for her mother for over a decade. 

45,093 words | 213 pages

Thala is SUCH a sweet story, both the fic (seriously, so sweet!!!) and how this bind came to be! This was actually a bind requested by some of the Nashuri community as a gift for the author. After reading Thala, I was totally charmed + of course agreed to bind a physical copy for the author, working through the details with the wonderful @malakki142 and @elegantfirepoetry to coordinate FOUR different artists’ work for the fic + more. 

Since Thala features a child of both Talokan and Wakanda, I leaned into themes of blue, green, and palm fronds for the cover material, endpapers, and other decoration. These colors also match the inside, which features a hand-drawn border of Thala’s necklace and tidal wave chapter titles. Both Thala and Namor control water in this fic, so of course the ATLA water tribe symbol was an easy choice to break up the sections. 

This was my first time using foil to gild edges, which I think turned out pretty okay for the first time! Its lovely shiny color matches the half beads used for the headbands and the foil used in the cover cutouts, also representing Thala’s necklace. Since a child OC is the driving force of the fic, I wanted to create something vibrant, childlike, but still clean, and I’m so happy with how it turned out!

Thala is a OC kid!fic that weaves a story of how time and family can help overcome the hurt of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Read it on AO3, + thank you bardocksheadband for writing it and to the INCREDIBLE incredible artists (Pomelo on Twitter,  @darkkittyart, @midnight-oily, and @anonymousmink) for their wonderful art contributions which made this bind extra special!

[aolechan]

”Only the most broken people can be great leaders.” Namor Week 2024 @namorweek Day 7 - Creator’s Choice | Favorite Quotes insp and tutorial by thereigning-lorelai

[mal-urameshi]

Chronicles Of Mama Okoye and Riri XXII

CASTING BONDS

AN: Shoutout to @neptoons1998 for the idea! MVP for real.

Attoye Lovahs: @pilesofpillows @xblackreader @blacksapphhicmaddonna

Okoye leaned against the wooden fence and watched Riri tended to her rhinoceraus, Thabisa. The calf had grown quite large over the last 4 years, almost as large as its father. To combat the height disadvantage, Riri equipped herself with some stilts. Not without technologically modifying them first in ways that best suited her needs, of course.

Riri had insisted to her mother that she was capable of bathing the rhino all by her lonesome, so Okoye was forced to be a bystander. Not like she minded in the least. She spectated as Riri got herself soaked with water and soap, trying to get Thabisa as clean as she could while the animal huffed and grunted at her ministrations.

A smile blossomed over Okoye's features as Thabisa nudged Riri before giving a wet, affectionate lick to her cheek.

"Ah! Thabisa!" Riri giggled before meticulously scrubbing her horn with a toothbrush, "I should use this for your tongue next."

Okoye settled herself onto the grass but was soon accompanied by her own rhinoceraus, Efua. She placed a kiss onto the beast's thick hide before leaning against her.

She pulled her Seana Marena closer to her form as her mind went back to the conversation she had the previous night with her husband.

"Okoye, I fear Riri is not quite as fond of me as I had initially believed," Attuma started, "When I try interacting with her, she keeps communication short and goes about her way. I sense that she is uncomfortable, but I do not know how to remedy the issue."

Okoye gave Attuma her full attention as he lamented. She did in fact notice the stagnancy in the relationship between Riri and Attuma. Their interactions have been a stark contrast compared to before they had married.

Attuma officially moved in and integrated into their home three weeks ago. Initially, Okoye had chalked it up to Riri needing to adjust to the new presence being a permanent fixture. They have evolved from a family of two, into a family of three.

However, Okoye being as perceptive as she was, had noticed tension from Riri long before he brought it up. She wanted to give her child space though. She wanted to allow her to sit with her feelings and reflect before approaching the child. Though it looks like she'd have to gently prod her.

"I would like to bond more with her, but I am afraid the wall she has put up prevents me from doing so. She is like a daughter to me-no, she is my daughter, and I would love to teach her the ways of my people. But I am hurt that she avoids me. Did I perhaps do something to anger her?"

Okoye gave a gentle smile and held Attuma's hand in comfort, "No, darling. She has just had difficulty to the new addition in our home. But don't worry, I'll have a little chat with her."

Attuma brightened at Okoye's suggestion, "You will? Thank Chaac!"

Efua huffed, bringing Okoye out of her reverie. Her attention went back to Riri and Thabisa, noting that her daughter was finished with the tidying.

"You're all clean now, Superstar!" Riri cheered before taking a selfie with the rhino, "You can go ahead and eat now, girl." She patted her side and walked over to Okoye after Thabisa walked off to eat her meal.

"Come." Okoye pat her side, "Let's talk."

Efua stood up and trudged off to get her own food, leaving the mother and daughter by themselves.

Riri plopped down and rest on her head on Okoye's lap, looking up at her.

"You smell like wet Rhino, small girl." Okoye playfully scrunched her nose.

"A small price to pay in making sure my baby looks presentable at all times." The child smirked.

Okoye unravelled her Seana Marena off of her body and covered Riri with it, seeing her shiver slightly due to her damp clothes.

"Riri," Okoyes affectionately rubbed a thumb over her daughter's forehead, "Attuma wants to take you fishing tomorrow."

Riri wrinkled her nose at the statement, "I'm not a member of the River Tribe. I don't fish. Tell him I pass."

Okoye frowned slightly at Riri's dismissiveness, "But how come my love?" Before Attuma moved in with them, she was always excited to be around 'Big Blue' as she affectionately called him.

"Uh," She squeezed her eyes shut, "Because I'm a part of the Border Tribe? Duh. I don't have a need to fish." She wildly flailed her arms, gesturing to the wide open fields and cattle scattered across the landscape.

Chuckling at Riri's adamance, she gently coaxed again, "Yes, my Pebble. But Attuma would like to share a piece of him, a part of his world with you through the bonding experience of fishing. Don't you want to have a deeper understanding of your stepfather?"

Riri flinched at the title and looked at her mother, "No?"

Okoye softly cradled Riri's cheek and regarded her, "Why is that my sweet?"

Riri gave her mother an exaggerated shrug, interlocked her fingers and stretched out her arms, "I dunno."

Okoye remained patient with the child and prodded some more, "Riri, who boasts about knowing everything, claims to not know why she doesn't want to know her stepfather better? That's preposterous!"

Riri groaned loudly, "Ugh, Ma! I dunno. I guess its because it's different I guess?"

"Different how?" Okoye persisted with open-ended questions to allow room for Riri to properly express herself.

Riri shrugged again and avoided eye contact.

"It's okay to speak what's on your mind, Riri. You know I don't bite." She tickled her ribs, causing the girl to giggle.

"Okay, okay Ma! Stop! Haha!" Okoye paused her attack to allow Riri to speak.

"You promise you ain't gonna look at me funny for what I have to say?"

"You know I'd never do that, Riri. You know you can always speak your mind with me." Okoye encouraged.

Riri folded her lips as she thought of the best way to get her thoughts across, "I just feel weird with someone else in the house other than us. I guess. It was cool and everything when he came and went but I didn't realize how...WEIRD I feel. It was just me and you always..." She trailed off.

Okoye kept quiet in case Riri had anything else to say.

"And I know we had the talk. You asked me if I was comfortable with you marrying Attuma and him living with us. And I was. He's fun. He plays with me. He took me out and stuff. He told me he loves me and stuff. But it feels strange officially calling him Baba you know? Or Yuum as he says I can call him." Riri scratched her head. "I dunno if I'm making any sense to you, Ma." She took a deep breath and sighed.

"No, you're making perfect sense Riri." She stroked her daughter's cheek with a knuckle.

"I guess what I'm saying is I underestimated my ability to adjust to a male presence that is a constant in the home and I don't know how to navigate this newfound family dynamic full-time. I like Attuma, don't get me wrong. I just feel awkward. And shy, I guess." She wiggled around on the grass and rubbed the back of her head impossibly deeper into Okoye's lap.

Okoye laughed at Riri's antics, "It is alright, Riri. This is something new. You are adjusting. But the fact of the matter is, this is the same Attuma that you know. He's very excited to teach you more about his home and traditions as he sees you as his own child."

Riri blew a raspberry in response.

"He is very excited to bond, you know. Don't knock it till you try it."

"Hmm, but Ma, I'm an engineer, not a fisherman. I'm also one with the Border, in case you forgot. Not exactly a water baby here."

Okoye nodded, "That may be true but just as the Border Tribe protects Wakanda with the strength of the earth beneath their feet, Talokan draws its strength from the water. You can learn a lot from Attuma, just as he has been very eager to learn from you."

Riri took a breath "But- the-Hmm."

Okoye interrupted Riri every time she tried to make an excuse, "Ah-No-Riri." She levelled the child with a look only a mother could give.

"Just give it a chance. Go into it with an open mind. Try looking at things from his perspective. What scientist do you boast yourself to be and not having an open mind, eh?"

Riri sighed, "Fiiiinnneeeeee. I'll go." She knew once her mother made up her mind.

"But manual poles and bait and stuff? Nah, I can do better than that. Trust. I'll build some more effective gear for our bonding session." Riri nodded and stroked her chin as she began brainstorming, "Attuma's gonna have the sandals rocked off of him!"

The next day, Attuma excitedly packed his essentials into his satchel as well as everything needed for their outing into a carved wooden chest.

He planned on having a full day with Riri which was rich in knowledge and new experiences for her. He put everything outside on the porch and waited for Riri to come outside.

Okoye was with Riri as she put in the last of her gadgets into her backpack, "Be open to the experience, okay, Riri?"

She walked around her room and tugged her shorts out of the clothes hamper before putting it on, "Yea, Ma. I got it. Be open and be nice and blah blah." She laughed.

Riri picked up her bag and slipped her flip-flops on.

Mother and daughter ventured outside to meet Attuma.

"Are you ready to venture to Lake Mbasi, Riri?" Attuma asked cheerfully.

Riri smiled and nodded, "Heck yea. We're gonna catch so much fish! It's gonna be a feast!"

"That's the spirit, Tiny Shrimp!" Attuma cheered, which caused Riri to smile at his enthusiasm.

Okoye bent down and pressed a kiss to Riri's cheek, "Be good!"

She then turned and tip-toed to press a kiss to Attuma's lips after he removed his rebreather, "You be good as well."

"Of course!" He grinned and picked up his chest, "Let's go Riri."

And so, the duo set off on their trek to Lake Mbasi. It was a 45-minute walk, so they had gotten an early start to properly seize the day, as Attuma explained.

"Are you excited for the fishing experience, Riri? Because I have so much to show you."

Riri grinned and rubbed her pointer under her nose, "Yea. I'm excited. I have a few things to show off to you as well It'll blow your mind!"

Attuma paused, his tone held a tinge of hurt, "You intend to blow my head off?"

Riri looked at him, "Big Blue, you're funny sometimes. It's just a figure of speech." She jumped and spread her legs apart on the landing, then pointed up at the sky, "What I mean is you're going to be completely and utterly dumbfounded by what I have in store! I stayed up all night prepping for today. You're going to be at such a loss for words you're gonna look like this."

Riri put on an expression of awe and hung her mouth open, "Gonna be like a fish outta water. I'm saying!"

Attuma chuckled, happy that she seemingly reverted to how she used to interact with him.

They continued their walk with light conversation until they finally arrived at Lake Mbasi.

"Here we are, Riri." He carefully placed the chest on the ground as well as his satchel.

Riri did the same with her backpack and went to inspect the chest, "Woah! What are these glyphs?" She touched the markings on the wood, unable to stave off her curiosity.

"That is the glyph of Ix Chel." Attuma explained as he got on one knee, "She is our Goddes of Waters and the Moon. The glyph represents nurturing and abundance, symbolizing the balance of nature and the life-giving forces of the water."

Riri listened to Attuma and nodded in understanding, "That's pretty cool."

She went to her backpack and took out the gadgets she prepared, "Let's get to fishing!" One by one her tech lined the grass.

"I got, self casting fishing lines. A sonar to detect the fish so we don't have to wait super long for a catch, and I even brought a drone to spot schools of fish from a bird's eye view! This'll be a piece of cake!" Riri hummed and nodded her head in approval.

Attuma regarded Riri, "I know you love using your tech as it provides a more convenient and efficient way of executing tasks as you so put it, I insist we start things off in the more traditional way. I want to share with you the way my people prepare to fish."

RIri scratched her head, "Okay, show me your ways, Attuma. But you have to promise we use my gear next!"

Attuma chuckled, "Yes. You have my word." Attuma set aside his spear which was in his satchel, as well as his net.

"This fishing spear and net have been passed down for generations in Talokan, tracing back to our Mayan roots. One of many of course."

"That's cool," Riri stated as she squatted opposite the blue man.

Next, he placed a gentle hand on the unopened chest, "Fishing in Talokan is not just about catching food. It is about respecting the natural world. The waters are sacred and breathe life. In Talokan, we do not take more than what we need. That is how we maintain balance between nature and survival."

Wow. The way of the Talokan is similar to how her fellow Wakandans do things on land. Riri smiled and hugged her knees at the lesson she was getting from Attuma.

“In my culture, we believe the water has a spirit like the gods who control the rain and rivers. We don’t just fish; we give thanks. Each catch is a gift."

Attuma opened up the chest and looked at Riri, "I want to share in a ritual we do before we fish."

First, he extracted a polished shell which had intricate markings of a hammerhead shark on it. He beckoned Riri closer so she could scrutinize it properly.

"The shark represents strength and power in the ocean." He motions for Riri to hold out her hand and places the shell into her palms.

He then placed a white flower into the shell, "You may place the shell at the water's edge."

Riri wasn't expecting to participate in the ritual herself, but she was rolling with it. Quite appreciative that he was sharing this experience with her.

He removed a few more bowls, placing flowers into them as he did the first and allowed Riri to place them at different points to symbolize a circle of protection.

Next, Attuma removed a small pouch of copal from the chest. Attuma burned the incense at the water’s edge, allowing the smoke to drift over the lake. He explained to Riri that it symbolised a bridge between Talokan and the natural world. The scent would honor the sea and the spirits that dwell within it.

Next, Attuma retrieved a fishing spear made from obsidian.

"This has been passed down through generations in Talokan. This spear is not used for everyday fishing, however, it is symbolic, representing the unity between the fisherman and the sea."

He showed it off to Riri, "These carvings engraved into the spear represent Chaac, the Mayan God of rain and water."

"I shall now seek the blessing of the sea gods. This spear represents my respect for the ocean, my ancestors and the fish we seek to catch."

With great reverence, Attuma gently placed the tip of the spear in the water. As the spear touched the water, he whispered a prayer in his native tongue to the sea god Chaac, asking for balance and guidance.

Riri remained silent as Attuma went through the steps with great devotion.

Next, Attuma takes a gourd out of the chest, "This is the vessel of seawater from which I hail."

Slowly he pours it into the lake, symbolizing the union of Talokan and Wakanda.

This act represents how the two worlds—underwater and on land—are forever connected, a message not lost on Riri, who watches with curiosity.

To conclude, Attuma takes the water amulet from the chest and holds it over his heart, reflecting for a few moments in silence. He speaks the final words of the blessing, calling upon his ancestors to guide him and keep him connected to the sea. The amulet is then placed back in the chest as a final act of devotion.

"The ritual is complete." He then looked over to Riri.

"Yoo! Attuma that was so wicked!" She stood up on shaking legs and filled her lungs with several gasps of air. "I didn't realize I was holding my breath for so long! You're so devoted to your Gods and ancestors! And the ceremony was so powerful. You're making me want to learn Mayan!"

Attuma grinned at Riri's animated demeanour.

"And thank you for allowing me to participate in the ritual with you. I felt super included!"

"You are most welcome, Tiny Shrimp. That is the purpose of our bonding."

"So it's fishing time now, right?"

Attuma nodded in agreement.

"Okay! So lemme show you my stuff!" She ran and picked up her fishing pole, "This bad boy is self-casting! So all you gotta do is stick it in the ground and it'll do the work or you!"

Riri excitedly stuck the pole into the soil and clicked a button that propelled the line into the water, "Now we just gotta wait."

She put her hands on her hip, feeling proud of herself.

"That is very innovative, Riri but you don't get much interaction in the water that way." Attuma rubbed his chin.

"The tech does all the work for you." She sat next to the pole, waiting for a snag.

Attuma nodded, deciding to wait with her to see if the fishing line caught anything. But five minutes passed and nothing.

"Huh. This is boring."

Attuma sighed, "You should get into the water, Riri. You will have an easier time catching fish by understanding the rhythm in which the water behaves.

Riri scratched her head, "But the tech will do it for me."

"Come, come." Attuma ordered, "I am going to show you how to fish like a proper Talokanil.

Riri stood up and kicked off her flip flops, "Lemme get my sonar!"

Attuma shook his head, "No, I said like a proper Talokanil. We aren't using any technology."

Riri pouted and slipped her hands into her back pocket, "But I'm not from the River Tribe. I'm going to suck at this. I've never fished in my life. No connection to fishing traditions. I think you'll be wasting your time. I'm inadequate." She shrugged, not liking to admit that.

Attuma lightly nudged Riri's back and guided her to the water, "Do not fret, Shrimpy. You will be a pro when I'm done with you."

Stepping into the water until Riri was thigh-deep, Attuma began his instruction.

"Have you hunted before?"

Riri made a face, "Duh. Do you forget who my mom is? She's taken me into the forest before to catch dinner before. Meat tastes best when it's fresh as can be!"

"You have the right mentality!" He gently rubbed her shoulders, "Fishing is no different than hunting on land, besides elemental differences. Just as you hunt a boar, reading its movements, knowing the proper time to strike, so you do with fish."

Right where he stood, he took note of a large catfish swimming about, barely making ripples at the surface.

"Take note Riri. Look at how this catfish swims and has its own rhythm. To catch it you do not go against the tone it has set for itself. I cannot just splash in and expect a catch. It will get frightened and I would lose a meal."

Riri looked on as Attuma gently placed his hands in the water and trailed behind the movement of the fish. Almost as though he was one with it. Then in an instant, Attuma pulled the large fish out of the water. It flapped around in his hands, causing water to sprinkle all over Riri, making her laugh.

"See? It's easy!" He walked on land and placed the fish on the grass.

He joined Riri in the water again, "Yea. You know what. It's a piece of cake! I'll catch mine on the first try too!"

She spread her legs and looked extra hard to see if she spotted a decent-sized fish, "Aye! I see one!"

In her excitement, she dove into the water but turned up soaked and exmpty handed.

Attuma's gutteral laugh caught her attention. The Talokanil General hunched over in laughter at Riri's zealous display.

Riri smiled and wiped some hair out of her face.

"That-that was the exact opposite of what I showed you Shrimpy." Attuma coughed into his fist as tears formed in the corner of his eyes.

Riri rolled her eyes and looked into the water for another fish. This time shedunked her hands under water a little too fast which caused the fish to swim away. "Hmm!"

Attuma, still laughing came up behind her and hunched over her smaller form.

"Follow me." He placed his hands in the water and Riri did the same. Using his hands as a guide Riri slowly coursed her hands through the water, making a small current.

Seeingly attracted to the motion, a fish practically swam between her awaiting palms.

"This is your chance, Riri!"

"It's mine!!" Riri screeched before pulling her hands out of the water, "I caught you!" She looked up at her hands to see her spoils but frowned when she realized what they held in the air were her interlocked hands instead.

Attuma roared with laughter, the sheer force of his mirth knocked him backwards, splashing Riri in the process.

"It's not funny!" Riri growled while splashing him, but her tone held no rage, "I almost had it!"

Attuma held up his own clasped hands, shouting to the heavens, "I caught it!" Mocking the child.

"You know you wrong for that." Riri huffed before splashing Attuma again.

"We can try the spear if you like." Attuma offered but Riri declined, "Nah I wanna catch a fish with my bare hands like you!"

The rest of the afternoon, Riri and Attuma spent their time catching fish. Well, more of Attuma catching fish and Riri splashing herself with water in hundred of failed attempts.

Attuma was placing his latest catch next to the rest when Riri shouted for his attention.

"I caught one! Big Blue I caught one!" She splashed around in a happy danced while she remained hunched over in excitement.

Attuma, happy about the news came rushing to observe her bounty.

Riri turned around and in her possession was a tiny brightly colored fish swimming in her palms.

Attuma grinned, "I am so proud of you Riri! You did so well!"

Riri smiled at the praise, "I wanna keep this one. It's too small to eat anyway."

"Of course you can. We need something to put it in."

Riri carefully walked back to shore, "I have a water bottle in my bag!"

Attuma fetched it, filled it with some lake water and helped Riri guide the fish into the bottle.

"Hehehe." She held up the bottle to the sunlight and admired the fish's colors, "I had a bountiful day indeed."

She looked over to the piles of fish Attuma had laid out on the grass, "You too, I guess. But mines is prettier."

Attuma smiled and nodded, "I cannot argue with you there."

Riri sat down and flopped backwards, the events of the day getting to her, "Man, I'm beat." She groaned.

"You did excellent for your first time, Riri. I'm very proud of you." Attuma sat next to her and pat her soaked afro.

"Thanks..." Riri looked up at the sky and twisted her mouth.

"Thank you, Yuum."

Attuma looked over at Riri with shocked eyes. That was the first time she referred to him as such.

"Yea, I was practicing that in the mirror for like 3 weeks." She shrugged.

"Sorry if I made you feel bad for ignoring you and stuff. You becoming my stepdad felt surreal to me. It was one thing with you coming around sometimes and hanging out. But you being around 100% felt crazy to me. And I guess I felt nervous about it. Because it was more official. And I didn't know if our dynamic would have changed."

She scooted closer to the Talokanil, "I guess I was worried that you woulda switched up or something and not like me as much? Or I was maybe projecting onto you. But I'm glad you still love me like you always said you have." She scooted closer to him and rest her head on his shoulder.

Attuma's heart soared hearing that from Riri. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer, "I would never change the way that I treat you, unless it was for the better. Which it always will. I am happy that you felt comfortable enough to share this with me, Riri."

"You're welcome, Yuum."

After winding down, Attuma packed up their spoils of the day and allowed Riri voyage on his back after complaining of being tired.

Riri silently pet Attuma's hair for comfort as he carried her back home.

Okoye was on the front porch when she saw her husband and daughter coming up the walkway.

"You're back!" She stood up to meet them but her eyes bulged at the sight of the amount of fish they brought back, "Did you clear the entire lake?" She joked.

"All that you see in the net is what I caught, Ma!" Riri announced.

"Really?" She took Riri off of Attuma's back and pressed a few kisses to he cheeks and forehead.

"Nah. He caught all of those. But look!" She held up her water bottle, showing off her colorful fish, "I caught this one all by myself!"

Okoye gasped, "Oh my goodness! Riri it's so beautiful!"

Riri rubbed her nose in smug satisfaction, "You can have it if you want."

Okoye smooched her cheek again, "Are you sure? I'm sure you worked hard to catch it."

"Put me down! I'll put it in a bowl for you!"

Okoye did as she was told and Riri bolted inside.

She looked over at her husband, "So, how was it?"

Attuma put down his net of fish and lifted Okoye into his arms.

Knowing what he wanted, she removed his rebreather and gave him a kiss on his lips.

"She called me Yuum! Okoye I'm so happy! She accepts me wholly." He pressed another kiss to her lips.

"Attuma that's great news!" She wrapped her arms around his neck in a hug.

"I already have another outing planned I believe she will love it."

Two of her favourite people in the world were getting along again and she couldn't be happier. She went in for another kiss but RIri interrupted with her gagging.

"Okay, guys. That's enough. Let's fry up some of that tilapia already." She snapped her fingers in haste.

"You heard the boss." Okoye smiled.

Attuma smiled and picked up the net, "I shall begin gutting the fish."

[roseamongroses]

don't jump me but i was supposed to post this last year