#Pastry Stout

[auraeseer]

Tear! Rah! Me! Sue!

[pdubyah]

Beer - #1,113 - Duncan's - Mentor Mentor

Beer - #1,113 - Duncan's - Mentor Mentor A rather good beer that got better as it got less in the glass. A study in how to do a good pastry Stout without the frills This, the Vinyl music and the Cheese and Crackers. Spot on!

After a myriad, a deluge if you will, of fresh Hop Beer I’ve taken a change of style. Pastry Stout. From arguably the Master of the style in NZ, Duncan’s. Which you might think hilarious given the last few posts have mostly been on dark beers, but that Fresh Hop beers are transient they don’t generally eland themselves to close inspection, they’re one-off popular beers, they arrive with a band,…

[anime-scarves]

Made steak and ale pie with my brother today. It was incredible!!

[wormdebut]

The universe expands. Part One | Part Three | Part Four

-

The Daily Grind was Wayne’s baby and Eddie had spent many an evening in the industrial lobby as he got used to living with his uncle at age thirteen. Somewhere over the years, Saturday nights became open mic nights and Eddie would usually just drag out his acoustic, but occasionally his buddy from school, Gareth would join him and bang on whatever planted pot he could pull onto the little corner platform until he finally got a cajon.

Wayne had thrown him an apron at sixteen and he’d been working at the shop ever since. He wasn’t entirely sure how he had been roped into running the whole damn thing by 23 but here he was, and Wayne was somewhere in Indiana opening a fourth location, Eddie was happy for his uncle he really was, but he didn’t have a shred of patience for a customer who was out of line.

Yell at him? Sure, Eddie was a loud (both verbally and aesthetically) kinsey six gay man, that stood at 6’2 (without his boots, thank you) with a penchant for attention of any form; but yell at any of his coffee kiddos? You’ve got another thing comin’ Brenda. No one speaks to his little beans that way, especially not the smallest. Erica Sinclair, sure as hell could handle herself but Eddie was also rearing for an opportunity to kick someone the fuck out of his hallowed little coffee shop, specifically ‘medium single shot soy cappuccino absolutely no foam—no I don’t want a latte you dumbass can you hear correctly from down there’ Brenda.

Eddie had heard the woman from the backroom while he was dolling out pastries from the freezer. She was that fucking shrill, he was already rearing up, as Dustin popped his shocked head back through the door, “Um, Eddie?”

“Yeah Henderson, I heard it I’m on my way.” Eddie threw his long hair up in a messy bun on top of his head, having had taken it down while he was alone in the back and marched straight out to the lobby. God dammit, Brenda it was 7am and there were other guests to serve, “Brenda Brenda Brenda.” He shove his way between Erica and the counter top that Brenda was grossly leaning over to try and get into her face, and shut her up good and quick with a displeased stare that would scare the biggest of the bads.

“We’ve been over this sweetheart, I gave you one last chance, one,” he threw his finger up at her both to illustrate his point and cut off her response, “I’ve been making you your bullshit cappuccino for two years darling, and you know my kids are trained by me. They make the thing better then I do, and—nope I’m talking,” he cut her off again as she made to fight back. Eddie wasn’t looking anywhere but at this bitch of a women, however he knew there were people crowding in the lobby now. He didn’t care, “you can come at me all you want, but you will not ever speak to my staff that way. Get the fuck out and do not come back.”

Brenda huffed in exasperation, “I want the manager, Edward!”

Eddie’s laugh in that moment was pointed as he looked at Erica tucked behind his back and Dustin making drinks dutifully but watching from his side view, “Did you hear that squad? She’s wants the manager!” He snapped his gaze back to the angry ugly little stout woman in front of him, “I’ll do you one better, babe,” He sneered at here, “My names Eddie and I own the place,” Wayne would forgive him, “Get. The Fuck. Out.”

Brenda huffed as she turned on her stubby little heel, “I’m calling the city board!” She yelled as the crowd of coffee customers applauded her exit. Eddie laughed under his breath at that, Chicago didn’t give a shit about a bitch and her coffee vendettas.

“You good E?” He turned to his coworker and she looked up at him with her hands on her hips.

“You know I had it handled right?” He nodded, told her of course she did, but it never hurts to have support, and she kept up her confidence but muttered a quiet “Thanks Eddie”, as she turned around and joined Dustin on the second machine.

“Sorry about that guys, who’s next?” Eddie flashed a thousand watt smiled and whipped through the lobby of guests. Max was due in any second so he knew they would get the early morning rush cleared out fairly quickly regardless of the ridiculous interruption.

Eddie’s smile brightened at a duo he knew he hadn’t met yet, the lanky girl looked nice sure but damn he would’ve remember a boy that looked like this one, “Well hello Gorgeous.”

The boy who had a head of hair that truly rivaled Eddie’s own, and freckles splashed across his cheeks, flushed red and oh, Eddie wanted to devour him. His big brown eyes widened at Eddie’s forwardness and immediatley dropped to the floor. Eddie couldn’t hide the playful smirk on his face. The girl couldn’t help but let out a laugh, whether it was in solidarity or out of awkward tension Eddie couldn’t tell.

“I’m Robin and this is,” she gestures at the blushing mess of the boy that still had his eyes trained to the floor, “well this is just embarrassing, but he goes by Steve.”

“Well, it’s a pleasure. My apologies for the shit show earlier, why don’t I get you guys whatever on me yeah?”

Eddie was a sucker for a pretty boy, and he could tell they were both good people. She basically dragged Steve with her as they waited for their iced oat milk lavender lattes. (Eddie swears by them.) Eddie made sure to deliver them directly to the two and shy boy Steve managed a soft smile and a breathy “Thanks” and Eddie wanted to bite him, dammit. “

Bye, new friends have a safe day wherever your headed!” Eddie flashed them a grin and a wave as they left the shop, just as a flash of red hair zoomed past them.

“What did I miss, besties?” Max asked as she tied her fiery hair up in a messy bun to match Eddie’s.

“Oh you know,” Dustin spoke from the espresso machine, “Eddie kicked out ‘No Foam Cappuccino Brenda’, pulled the “I am the manager” card to defend Erica and I’m pretty sure he fell in love with a shy pretty boy?” He ends on a question and Eddie just tsks at him as he makes his way back to the backroom.

“Ah,” Max breathes, “Just another bright morning at The Grind.”

-

Taglist - @gay-stranger-things @savory-babby @trashpocket if you wanna be added or removed just let me know ✨

[danika-redgrave124]

Umbra Witch Yuu Infernal Demons

Heartslabyul

Cardinalia, The Crimson Sovereign

Normal Weapon: Royal Reckoning

Appearance-

Cardinalia manifests as a towering, regal figure, with the imposing stature of a queen. Her form is adorned with armor-like plating that mimics a deck of playing cards, each piece detailed with swirling patterns of red and black. Her crown is a fusion of thorny roses and sharp-edged spades, while her royal gown flows in a mesmerizing cascade of shimmering red hearts and swirling black clubs, as if she is always on the verge of unraveling into a storm of cards. Cardinalia’s eyes glow a fiery red, and her hands bear massive, heart-shaped gauntlets capable of crushing her enemies.

Abilities-

Hearts' Dominion: When summoned, Cardinalia can command a storm of razor-sharp playing cards, each infused with infernal energy. These cards can slice through enemies or form protective barriers around Yuu.

Royal Edict: With a single motion, she can summon massive ethereal hearts to smash down on foes, creating shockwaves that knock back enemies.

Fury of the Suits: In sync with the Royal Reckoning Cardinalia channels her energy into the axe, amplifying its Hearts’ Fury ability. The ethereal card suits that swirl around Yuu take on demonic life, transforming into spectral creatures that attack foes or shield them from harm.

Off with Their Heads: Cardinalia uses her gauntlets to grip enemies, crushing them in a display of royal wrath, leaving behind bursts of red and black flame.

Madcap, The Teacup Trickster

Normal Weapon: Wonderland Edge

Appearance-

Madcap appears as a whimsical, lanky figure that resembles a trickster from a dream. He is adorned in a patchwork costume of vibrant blues, whites, and pastel colors that reflect the whimsical aesthetic of Wonderland. His face is painted with a playful smile, with one eye wide and gleaming with mischief while the other squints as if peering into another reality. Madcap’s hair is a wild, tousled mess, resembling a teapot spout, and his arms are elongated, allowing him to manipulate the Wonderland Edge scepters with dexterity.

Abilities-

Reality Distortion: When summoned, Madcap releases a wave of energy that temporarily alters the battlefield, causing illusions and confusing enemies. This chaos enhances Yuu's agility, allowing them to dodge attacks effortlessly while disorienting foes.

Teacup Tempest: Madcap conjures a flurry of animated teacups that swirl around enemies, striking them and causing erratic magical effects, like random bursts of laughter or sudden slow-motion moments.

Curious Confections: He can summon whimsical pastries that explode upon impact, releasing bursts of confounding smoke that obscure vision and disorient enemies, leaving them vulnerable to Yuu's attacks.

Jester’s Gambit: Madcap can create illusionary doubles of Yuu that confuse enemies and draw their attacks, giving them openings to counterattack.

Brewster, The Mischievous Barista

Appearance-

Brewster takes the form of a comical, anthropomorphic teapot creature with a stout body and oversized, floppy ears resembling teacup handles. His vibrant color palette features swirling patterns of pastel blues, pinks, and yellows that evoke the whimsical essence of a mad tea party. His eyes sparkle with mischief, and steam billows playfully from his spout-like head. Brewster carries a pair of oversized teacup pistols that are as chaotic and eccentric as his personality, complete with whimsical designs that constantly shift and change.

Abilities-

Tea Time Frenzy: When Brewster is summoned, he amplifies the magical energy of the pistols, allowing Yuu to fire streams of chaotic energy. Each shot produces random effects, such as bursts of confetti that blind and distract enemies or colorful illusions that confuse them.

Teacup Swarm: Brewster can summon a horde of animated teacups that whirl around enemies, knocking them off balance and attacking with playful ferocity. The teacups can explode upon impact, creating dazzling displays of light and sound that further disorient foes.

Brew of Chaos: Brewster brews an ethereal tea that enhances Yuu's abilities temporarily, allowing her to move with increased speed and agility while their attacks deal extra whimsical damage.

Mad Hat’s Riddle: He can cast an illusion that mimics Yuu, creating confusion among enemies and providing them with opportunities to strike while they are distracted.

Jesterina, The Phantasmal Trickster

Normal Weapon: Smile Tails

Appearance-

Jesterina appears as an enchanting yet eerie figure, resembling a spectral jester-like cat with a flowing, tattered costume made of vibrant purple and pink fabric. Her face is painted with an exaggerated grin, showcasing sharp, gleaming teeth that contrast with her ethereal, shadowy presence. Her long hair billows like smoke, streaked with colors that shift and shimmer as she moves. Jesterina wields the Smile Tails blades with grace, her fingers dancing around the curved handles, which seem to pulse with a mysterious energy.

Abilities-

Grinning Apparition: When summoned, Jesterina creates a flurry of illusionary copies of the Smile Tails that strike enemies from multiple angles. Each copy glimmers with the same eerie glow as the original blades and disappears in a burst of mischievous laughter, leaving behind afterimages that confuse foes.

Phantom Juggle: Jesterina can toss her blades into the air, creating a swirling vortex of light and color. The blades become momentarily untouchable, allowing Yuu to maneuver through enemies while they are disoriented by the spectacle.

Echoing Laughter: With each successful strike, Jesterina's laughter resonates throughout the battlefield, inducing fear in enemies and lowering their defenses for a short time, making them more susceptible to attacks.

Illusionary Decoy: Jesterina can create a playful hologram of herself that mimics her movements, drawing enemy attacks away from Yuu. The decoy grins widely and disappears with a giggle, leaving enemies confused.

Cadenza, The Ace of Shadows

Normal Weapon: Royal Card

Appearance-

Cadenza appears as a regal, knightly figure draped in flowing black and red robes that shimmer like playing cards in the light. His body is adorned with sharp, angular designs that echo the aesthetic of the Royal Card sword, featuring the Queen of Hearts emblem prominently on his chest. Cadenza's face is concealed behind a mask shaped like a giant playing card, with intricate designs that glow in sync with the sword’s energy. He wields a massive sword that resembles a colossal playing card, radiating an aura of authority and power.

Abilities-

Deck of Fate: When summoned, Cadenza enhances Yuu's attacks, unleashing a rapid series of slashes that send out shockwaves shaped like playing cards. Each shockwave deals damage and applies stacking debuffs to enemies, making them more susceptible to Yuu's subsequent strikes.

Card Minions: With each slash, Cadenza can summon small, animated card minions that dart around the battlefield, distracting and confusing foes. These minions can explode upon command, releasing bursts of energy that inflict further damage.

Shockwave of Cards: Each slash sends out a shockwave shaped like a playing card that deals damage to enemies caught in its path. These shockwaves can also apply various debuffs, such as reduced speed, weakened defense, or increased susceptibility to elemental damage, stacking with each successful hit.

Ace's Gambit: Cadenza can create an ethereal card barrier around Yuu, providing them with protection while countering enemy attacks with a reflective shockwave that deals damage back to their attackers.

[snorky]

O Beautiful Saint, O Lovely Saint

Hey y’all! I hope you all are doing well, and happy Friday. I wrote another Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen story, and yes, sweet, but not too long, and not too short. Something along the ramblings of springtime that comes with both sun and rain, along with some fluff. I hope you all enjoy this fic, and remember to take care of yourself!

Pairing: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen x F!Reader

Word Count: 1.9k

Warnings: None :)

—

—

The bookstore was a safe haven for her, a safe haven filled with the scent of books, filled with subtle music, filled with an indescribable coziness that she couldn’t find anywhere else.

Rain tapped softly on the windows, a gentle pitter-pat that seemed to flow with the music perfectly, and the warm glow of the lights were welcoming, inviting any bypasser to stay as they pleased. 

Browsing through the tall aisles filled with books in the shelves and the stout tables with books stacked on one another, her fingers traced each title delicately, hoping that a book would call out her name for her to bring home.

After a short while, she picked out a book that was in a more secluded area of the store, a book from her teenage years. It was a world that she could easily get lost in over and over again, a whole different universe that seemed so ethereal.

Outside, the rain continued on, with no sign of faltering, but she didn’t mind. Walking out of the bookstore, the rain fell on her head, cold droplets that sent a shiver down her slightly with each drop.

She pushed her book deeper in her bag, hoping to protecting from the unfortunate weather, and continued walking down the street.

The wet pavement splashed slightly beneath her feet, seemingly tapping into a wonderland.

“Hey,” a warm voice called out to her.

Searching for the voice, she saw a tall man, with soft features and blond hair that made him look angelic despite the gloomy sky.

He stuck out his umbrella to her, offering it to her as if she was the angelic one. “Umbrella?”

She shook her head, a grateful smile appearing on her face nonetheless. “No, thank you, I’ll be okay.”

“Please? It’s not a big hassle for me to have a lovely woman get home safe and not catch a cold,” he pleaded gently.

His demeanor was genuine, not pushy or hoping for more than a small chat, and she accepted his kind offer. “Thank you, sir.” She took the umbrella in her hand, watching as he smiled sweetly.

They both parted ways, but not before turning to look at each other once more, a classic fairytale cliche that made her blush slightly. She hoped that he didn’t notice it under the shade of the umbrella, but he hoped the same, a warm pink blush on his face.

A few days later, she was wandering around town, basking in the fresh spring sunshine in her new dress, a pretty floral print along the skirt. She had already gotten a few pastries, and she felt drawn to a small little flower shop that hid between two other stores. Her apartment seemed a little empty, and so some flowers could make the place more lively.

As she walked inside, the fresh smell of flowers was refreshing, until she remembered that she had seasonal allergies. Her nose itched and tingled uncomfortably for a while, before she let out a sneeze or two.

She looked around nervously, hoping that no one heard her sneeze, but nothing is perfect in reality.

“Bless you,”

It was a recognizable voice, the voice of the man that gave her the umbrella a few days back. She turned around, spotting him a few feet away, face all so familiar to her. 

He was just as warm and friendly as when she first met him, except this time, with the sunlight passing through the front windows, he seemed even more heavenly, not just any angel, but to the point where she was caught in awe.

“Oh, thank you,” she said quietly, afraid that if she spoke too loud it would break some sort of spell. “I don’t have your umbrella with me, I’m sorry,”

“No, no, it’s okay.” His voice was gentle and warm, just as before, mirroring the sunlight that fell into the shop. “Your dress is really pretty, by the way,” he smiled.

Her face warmed at his compliment, a smile appearing on her face unwillingly, but she felt more than welcome to allow it. “Awh, thank you, your smile is beautiful,”

She cringed slightly at her boldness, but soon eased up as she saw him chuckle with a blush on his face.

“Thank you,” he said, rubbing his hand on the back of his neck nervously. “What’s your name?”

Telling him her name and introducing herself, he seemed to blush a little more. “That’s a lovely name, I’m Ukko-Pekka, but you can call me Ukko.” He stuck his hand out for her to shake, and she accepted it, taking her hand in his.

Giving him a sweet smile, she turned her attention back to the flowers that were in front of her, soft peonies and tulips in various colors.

He continued to linger in her mind, every little detail of him seemed to make her flush with a lovestruck smile. It was immature, having a silly little crush on some guy that was gentlemanly, the bare minimum, but her heart felt like it could hope for more.

She glanced over at him every once in a while, but reminded herself of how odd it looked to be ogling over some guy she just met, but he wasn’t just some guy.

Grabbing the flowers that she wanted for the arrangement, she walked up to the front counter, ready to pay and purchase. She wanted to settle on a regular paper wrapping, plain, knowing that she didn’t need anything fancy or extra.

Just as she was finalizing her order and getting the arrangement sorted out at the front desk, a hand gently tapped on her shoulder. Turning around, she saw his face again, cheeks slightly rosy.

“Hey um—” he paused. “What’s your favorite color?”

She stood there and thought about it, unsure of what to say. “I don’t really know,” she laughed softly. “I like all of them.”

He nodded and then disappeared to some part of the flower store, most likely behind a shelf or looking at the arrangements at the front of the store. She was unsure of why he asked such a question out of the blue, but shrugged it off as nothing big.

Shortly after that, her order was finished as she accepted the receipt from the clerk, her bouquet all nice and pretty, arranged beautifully. There were little baby’s breath flowers spread throughout the bouquet, filling empty spaces with bursts of white and softness.

Pushing the front door of the store, the warmness of the sun seemed to envelope her as she stepped out, a golden radiance shining from her.

She looked back into the store once more, seeing him at the front counter looking right back at her with a slightly flushed expression. He sheepishly motioned for her to wait one minute as he was paying for his own bouquet of flowers, and she complied, waiting under the doorway of the shop.

When he was finished, he walked quickly to her, afraid that he was wasting her time. “I’m so sorry if you have somewhere to be, do you?”

She shook her head, smiled all golden and sweet like honey.

“Alright, well I got you these,” he said shyly, handing her the bouquet full of daisies, carnations in pink and red, and with some other lovely flowers, all vibrant and beautiful. “I hope you like them.”

Standing there, she was at a loss for words, face in a bright smile, dress flowing in the slight breeze, and him there, sun glowing behind him like a halo, angelic and strong.

“I love them Ukko,” she whispered. 

Her fingers traced the petals gently, admiring how gorgeous they looked out in the sunlight. It seemed like he already knew her deeply, every little detail of the bouquet perfect to what she could only ever dream of.

She looked back up at him, and her eyes seemed to memorize each feature of his face, hoping to know it by heart. “Thank you,”

He nodded his head, his features fuzzy and blurred, a dream-like heavenly state. 

They both stood there, the sound of birds chirping could be heard in the distance. It was a blossoming springtime, fresh and vibrant, a new start, new beginnings.

After a few moments, he started to slowly regret his actions, not of handing her the bouquet, but out of fear of being rejected by her. 

“Oh, I have to go,” he blurted. Technically, he didn’t have anywhere he needed to be, but he wanted this slightly embarrassing moment to be over and done with. 

He was playing with his cards, hoping that his plan would go smoothly with the outcome he expected.

She was slightly confused at his suddenness, and a somber expression appeared, a saddened smile, but she allowed the departure once more. “Alright then, goodbye Ukko,”

As she walked away, back in towards the direction of her apartment, she glanced back to see him, waving goodbye to her, a tight-lipped smile with saddened eyes. Waving back, her heart already seemed to ache, not wanting to let go of him just yet.

Her walk home seemed dull, despite the bright and vibrant colors of spring being present in every corner. 

Regret seeped into each crevice of her mind, wondering if she should’ve given his number, or some other way to reach out to her.

Opening the door to her apartment, she walked in, a prayer in her breath. Hoping that the flowers could bring the vibrance that he did, hoping that one day, she’ll live knowing that maybe people come and go.

Sorting out her flowers in a vase, she noticed an odd piece of paper tied to the bouquet that he gave her. She unfolded the paper, wondering if it was some mistake by the clerk.

Reading the note on the paper, her heart seemed to drift among the clouds, feeling relief and fuzziness that blurred her thoughts. 

His number was scrawled on the paper, seemingly rushed, most likely from her waiting outside of the shop, and a sweet message about a potential coffee date later that week.

She gave the number a dial, and it was picked up on the other end in a short amount of time. “Hi, is this Ukko?”

“Yeah, hello.” He had a nervous twinge in his voice, clearing his throat.

“It’s a yes to your question by the way, I’ll see you Friday morning,” she said sweetly.

Ukko let out a sigh of relief, and smiled to himself. “See you then—oh, and do you enjoy your flowers?”

“Yes, I do, they’re gorgeous, Upie.” Her eyes admired the bouquet that now was in a vase on her countertop, truly making the place feel more lively.

“That’s good, because I hope to bring you more,”

They both continued to chat on the phone, laughing and talking about anything that came to mind, hoping it would make Friday morning come quicker, hoping to see each other once more. 

She hoped that perhaps another bouquet would be gifted, from his palms, a bright smile beaming on his face and cheeks all rosy again, and he hoped that he could see her heavenly smile again, her sweet laugh and her angelic radiance.

[upmala]

i miss eastern european experimental craft beer so much. they’re out there drinking herbal malt wine, juniper amber ale, double mash imperial pastry stout. and what does west europe have. boring-ass weißbier. helles? that’s not a beer type, that’s a blandness rating. get outta here with your pilsner

[auckie]

Ok no actually I wanna hear your Trader Joe’s opinions I’m really into the orange strawberry banana juice, the bruschetta sauce, the cranberry lime juice sparkling water and cinnamon schoolbook cookies

You and I agree on the CLSW (cranlime sparkling), haven’t tried the others but I’ll look into them. The normal lime one is also amazing on its own, as well as a mixer for both alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks. Summer must!

There’s so much shit I’m obsessed with, I’ll try and list the most important ones

English crumpets

Mango kefir

Brown sugar oat creamer

Chocolate oat milk

Simpler wines brand sparkling white canned wine

Pfeffernüsse

Chocolate babka

Brioche sliced bread

Danish Kringle

Pinks and whites shortbread cookies

Joe Joe’s gluten free classic Oreo knock off cookie

Madras lentils (boxed kind is good too)

Canned giant baked beans in tomato sauce

The non joes brand oat milk coffee and kombucha but you can get those anywhere

Their candles, two in one grapefruit mint hair wash (I despise two in one products but this one doesn’t foam and is more of a cleansing conditioner I use in between shampoo and regular conditionings), and many other non food items. I’ve bought their towels, seasonal decor (usually those felt garlands), face lotions and oils. Loved all of them. Usually I only restock on the lotion, hand soap, and lavender laundry bags. Their detergent is nice tho, and I’ve also gotten their wool laundry balls but you really only ever gotta buy them like once. They also usually have pretty cute cards at the checkout! I like their cheaper flowers too, but there’s also a lot of very cute seasonal items they carry that I just can’t justify buying bc of price (have you seen their felt sunflowers? So adorable)

Simpler times potato chips

Crispy Crunchy Champignon Mushroom Snack

Fruit leather bars

Dried orange rings

Lox (labeled as smoked salmon iirc)

Both their Tunisian and kalamata olive oil

Vodka sauce

Roasted red pepper and tomato canned soup

Canned vegetable soup

Gone bananas chocolate covered frozen bananas (gone berry crazy strawberries are good too but like a dollar or two more expensive)

Jasmine rice in the frozen isle

Lime popsicles

Steak and stout meat pie

Pastry Bites Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions

Canned tuna*

*especially with the gluten free microwaveable mac n cheese (I’m not gluten free if you’ve noticed, I literally just prefer some of their gluten free products. Same with the oat milk. I’m not lactose free but I just really like it)

Most of the frozen wontons I’ve tried

Chimichurri rice (goes great with the aforementioned roasted red pepper box soup, and chopped onions, green peppers, and spinach cooked in a wok)

Chicken sausage

Butternut squash gnocchi, iirc the potato gnocchi is good too

Most of their dried pastas

Almond and chocolate filled frozen croissants

The bars of chocolate you find at the check out that come in packs of threes

The weird meat sticks at the checkout too

Frozen hashbrowns

For whatever reason, their frozen green beans and asparagus is so much better than other generic brands I’ve tried

Any of the canned olives but esp the kalamata

Sun dried tomatoes

The produce is okay, a little pricey but they had brown Mexican tomatoes once that fucked hard. The herbs trustworthy too but really where is it not

Any of their chocolate covered nuts

Their fucked up chocolate covered chips, sometimes found in their snack mixes

Peanut butter pretzel snacks

Their dried seaweed isn’t my fav, but it’s not bad. I think it’s overpriced tho but tbf I usually get huuuge, less flavored packs from Costco

Pine nuts but good Gd are they expensive

They have cute, weird heirloom hybrid squashes during the fall a lot too that are pretty tasty

Things I’ve gotten from there that I hated? I didn’t like their orange chicken, ANY of the cereals I’ve gotten from there oddly enough, their pecorino Romano only comes grated and mixed iirc and I didn’t care for it. Some of their beers have made me scowl but also those are all random brands. But their wine (yes, even SHAW. But shoutout to coco bon red blend and blue fin moscato RIP!) has never does me wrong…except for any other flavor of the simpler wines canned ones. I can only do the sparkling white and literally no else I've forced to drink it has liked it! some of their salads have done me wrong. the canned chickpeas and dolmas were off. and some of their pricy juice mixes left me a bit disappointed.

[siempre-bucky]

canceled flights and beignets

Javy 'Coyote' Machado x Reader

Summary: His flight to spend Christmas in New Orleans gets canceled and you pick up the pieces with his favorite pastry.

wc: 761

a/n: a lil Christmas blurb I was supposed to have before Christmas :')

“All flights have been canceled due to the unexpected snowstorm.” 

Javy’s jaw clenched tightly, his brows furrowing angrily at the stout German man in the forest green suit who spoke from behind the anchor's desk. He’d already been on the phone with his mother to give her the bad news, his right ear still ringing from the frantic French yelling from the other end of the phone. 

He tied the arms of his flight suit around his waist and picked up his duffle from the cement ground. Three days till Christmas and here he was, stuck in a small town in Germany for his latest detachment. Hangman got lucky and managed to escape the storm getting out a day early—if only he were that lucky. 

The frown on his plump lips slid further and further down his face. Everything started to irritate him, from the cramped little car that didn’t fit his long legs to the snow that covered the ground. All he wanted to do was be in New Orleans, surrounded by his mother's peppermint beignets and his father's endless playlist of carols and him trying to translate in Portuguese on the spot to the kids. Ever since the announcement, he felt lonely. Christmas wasn’t going to feel the same this year. 

Snow fell off his boots as he climbed up the stairs of the apartment the government managed to house him in. The bags were packed, sitting in the doorway when he left that morning but when he opened the door they were nowhere in sight. 

His brown eyes scanned the dark apartment, the space dimly lit by the colorful lights you insisted on hanging up. He sniffed, the aromatic smell instantly warming his heart. “Cheri,” he spoke, lazily letting his duffle bag slip off his shoulder. 

There was no response, just soft Christmas music coming from the kitchen. Javy hummed to himself and quietly crossed the room, a warm smile spreading across his lips as your humming mixed with the vocals. 

Your back was turned to your husband, figurative elbows in a crimson red mixing bowl, swaying along to the old Christmas music playing from the speaker. Javy stepped further into the doorway, able to lean on the wooden beam and take in your figure dotted with colorful light coming from the Christmas lights above. 

He sniffed and his heart instantly clenched. Javy knew that smell coming from your workspace, instantly being transported to a small kitchen full of people running around, a mix of languages reverberating off the walls. "Mon cheri," he whispered, suddenly not trusting his voice. 

With a small gasp, you turned and smiled lovingly. "Welcome home," you sighed dreamily, meeting him in the middle for a tight hug. 

Javy's deep brown eyes were trained on the bowl before shifting to the powdery, golden brown beignets on a ceramic Christmas platter. His arms tightened around you, fingertips pressing into the small of your back. "When did you make these?" 

You smiled against the fabric of his black t-shirt, inhaling the scent of his cologne. "As soon as I saw the news. Got the recipe from your mom," you answered kindly, lovingly scratching his shoulder blades. He pulled away to press his lips to the side of your head and reached behind to grab one of the warm pastries. 

Still warm to the touch, he brought it to his lips cautiously with his eyes lingering low. But as soon as the beignet touched his taste buds, watery brown eyes flashed upward. He spoke your name with beautiful softness, ready to break at any moment. You reached forward and cupped his face, thumb swiping away the powdered sugar. “They taste like hers—like home.” 

You exhaled deeply in relief, “Good,” was the only thing able to escape your lips before Javy covered them with his own. “Was hoping they’d soothe the soul a little.” 

He chuckled and picked up the plate before wrapping his arm around your waist to guide you towards the living room. “Consider me soothed, meu amor.” 

You knew in an hour he’d put his head in your lap, wondering what his family was doing at that moment to prepare for the Christmas celebration. He’d turn into you and nuzzle his face into your stomach, arms wrapped around you to keep you there to comfort him as his heart ached for a New Orleans Christmas. But you’d be there to soothe him again with spoken memories from his home, food as close to his mother's as you could get, and all the affection he desired.

[strayrockette]

Give Me Peace Over War

Chapter 2: A Touch of Melancholy (Or a lot)

Thomas Shelby Masterlist/Other Masterlist

Previous Chapter

Pairing: Undecided, I previously put Thomas x Miruna in the prologue but I think I'm also considering John Shelbyx Miruna

Warnings: thoughts alluding to depression and mentions of past suicide, a gun is mentioned, angst, deep sadness not too happy feels

*DNI if you are sensitive to topics related to depression and suicide* seriously DO NOT read if you can't handle the deep depression, anxiety, stress, or suicidal thoughts Miruna has**

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-800-273-8255

The street outside the building seemed more vibrant than usual, the day’s sunlight casting sharp shadows on the cobbled stones. Miruna’s worn shoes scraped against the pavement as she trudged down the street, her coat flapping with each hesitant step. The aroma of fresh pastries, while pleasant, did little to mask the anxiety gnawing at her insides.

The bakery’s exterior came into view, its bright, welcoming sign barely visible through the haze of Miruna’s thoughts. The sight of it brought a momentary pang of reassurance, mingled with an equally strong wave of dread. Mr. and Mrs. Coulson’s bakery had a reputation for its warm, comforting atmosphere, but Miruna couldn’t shake the fear that had settled in her gut.

As she approached the bakery, Miruna took a deep breath, her fingers nervously adjusting the collar of her coat. She paused at the threshold, her heart pounding like a wild thing in her chest. The bell above the door jingled softly as she stepped inside, the familiar scent of yeast and sugar embracing her.

“Good morning!” Mrs. Coulson’s cheerful voice cut through the din of the bakery. She looked up from the counter, her eyes bright and welcoming. “You must be Miruna. We’ve been expecting you.”

Miruna offered a timid smile, feeling her cheeks flush with embarrassment. “Yes, that’s me.”

Mr. Coulson, a stout man with a kindly face and a pair of flour-dusted aprons, ambled over from the back room. “Let’s get you started, then. We’re a bit short-handed today, so I hope you don’t mind getting right to work.”

Miruna nodded, her throat tightening as she followed Mr. Coulson to the work area. She cast a quick glance around the bustling bakery. The warm, golden hues of freshly baked bread, the sight of customers chatting animatedly, and the soft hum of the cash register all blended into a sensory overload.

“Here’s where you’ll be stationed,” Mr. Coulson said, gesturing to a counter lined with pastry trays and utensils. “You’ll be assisting with the pastries and preparing orders.”

Miruna’s heart sank as she noticed the sheer volume of work. She’d hoped for a quieter role, something that would allow her to slip into the rhythm of the day without drawing too much attention. Instead, she was faced with a flurry of activity that seemed to buzz with its own relentless energy.

Mrs. Coulson joined them, a warm smile on her face. “Don’t worry if things seem overwhelming at first. We all had our first day jitters. Just ask if you need anything.”

Miruna nodded gratefully, her fingers already reaching for a rolling pin. She tried to lose herself in the task, rolling out dough and arranging it neatly on the trays. But her mind was still clouded by sleepless nights and the heavy burden of her nightmares. The pastry dough felt unfamiliar and cold, much like the reality she found herself grappling with.

The morning passed in a blur of activity and noise. Miruna’s hands moved mechanically, her mind struggling to keep up with the demands of the bakery. The hours ticked by, each minute stretching longer than the last. The more she worked, the more her fatigue became evident. She felt like a ghost, haunting the edges of the bakery’s bustling life.

By midday, the rush began to slow, and the bakery’s atmosphere shifted to a more relaxed pace. Miruna took a rare moment to catch her breath, her back aching and her hands trembling from the relentless work. She glanced around, hoping for a brief respite.

It was then that she noticed a figure sitting at a table near the window, a familiar face from her building. It was Lizzie, her vibrant presence a stark contrast to the subdued energy of the bakery. Lizzie waved enthusiastically, a cup of tea in hand.

Miruna’s heart sank, knowing that Lizzie’s appearance was likely a result of her promise. She forced a smile and waved back, trying to ignore the pang of embarrassment that accompanied the gesture.

Lizzie’s eyes sparkled with mischief as she approached the counter, her presence drawing the attention of several nearby customers. “How’s our girl doing?” she asked, her tone light but laced with concern.

Miruna managed a tired smile. “I’m getting through it. It’s… busier than I expected.”

Lizzie chuckled, her laughter carrying an air of warmth that contrasted sharply with Miruna’s fatigue. “Well, you’re doing great, love. I knew you’d manage just fine.”

As the bakery continued to fill with the midday rush, Miruna felt a wave of exhaustion crashing over her. The scent of pastries that had once seemed so inviting now felt overwhelming, mixing with the stress that had begun to weigh heavily on her.

With a deep breath, she tried to focus on the task at hand, pushing her weariness to the back of her mind. Lizzie’s presence was a reminder that she wasn’t entirely alone, but it also underscored the pressure she felt to succeed, to prove that she was more than her fears and anxieties.

The hours dragged on, each moment a testament to her resilience and determination. As the day drew to a close, Miruna found herself longing for the solace of her small apartment, yet dreading the return to the nightmares that awaited her.

She bid farewell to the Coulsons with a mix of relief and trepidation, the weight of her first day of work pressing heavily upon her. Lizzie’s voice called out as she left, “See you bright and early tomorrow, Miruna!”

With a final, weary nod, Miruna stepped out into the cool evening air. The bakery’s comforting warmth was replaced by the crisp chill of the night, a stark reminder of the uncertainty that lay ahead. She took a deep breath, her resolve hardening as she prepared to face whatever challenges awaited her, both in the waking world and the realm of her restless dreams.

As the clamor of the bakery faded into a distant hum, Miruna walked back to her apartment with weary steps, her mind weighed down by the day’s fatigue. The setting sun cast elongated shadows that danced mockingly on the cobblestone streets, each one a reminder of the creeping darkness that had become her constant companion. The scent of freshly baked bread lingered on her clothes, mingling with the pervasive smell of anxiety that clung to her spirit.

Her apartment, once a sanctuary of solitude, now felt like a cage. The walls seemed to close in on her, their once comforting embrace now oppressive and stifling. The sketchbook lay open on her small wooden desk, a reflection of her fragmented thoughts. The smudged graphite and uneven lines spoke of restless nights and an inner turmoil she struggled to articulate. She had always found solace in drawing, yet tonight, the sketches seemed to mock her, whispering of her unfulfilled desires and hidden sorrows.

Miruna sank into the tiny armchair by the window, her gaze fixed on the sliver of the setting sun that managed to pierce through the threadbare curtains. Her eyes, tired and hollow, searched for some semblance of peace in the fading light. Outside, the laughter of children playing in the street reached her ears, a stark contrast to the desolation she felt within.

In moments of quiet introspection, Miruna often reflected on the origin of her melancholy. Her memories of that first moment of awareness—a birthday party from which she had felt detached and out of place—seemed like a cruel premonition of the life that lay ahead. The vibrant colors and joyful sounds of that day had been a sharp contrast to her inner turmoil, a discord that had only grown louder with time.

The image of her younger self, surrounded by smiling faces yet feeling an unbearable weight, haunted her still. The delicate touches of affection, meant to celebrate her youth, had felt foreign and unwelcome. The joy that should have accompanied her birthday had instead been replaced by a profound sense of isolation, a feeling that had only deepened as she grew older.

She remembered the whispers of her childhood—rumors of a devil child, a specter of ill fortune that seemed to cling to her. Her parents' fear had been palpable, their attempts to shield her from the world only serving to isolate her further. She had seen their anxiety mirrored in the wary glances of others, a reflection of the burden she felt she carried.

Nightmares had been her only constant companions, their vividness leaving her gasping for breath upon waking. The dreams of warm, loving eyes and gentle hands had only intensified her sense of loss. Each morning, the reality of her isolation struck her with renewed force, a painful reminder of a happiness that seemed forever out of reach.

The arrival of her baby sister, Lianna, had been a bitter pill to swallow. The child’s hazel eyes and straight brown hair were a stark contrast to the vision of a curly-haired brunette she had yearned for. The dreams of a sister named Ella, with a dimpled smile and a joyful laugh, had been shattered. The grief of that unfulfilled vision had been a dagger to her heart, deepening her sense of alienation.

The night she had stolen the gun from the clan leader’s tent had been a desperate bid for escape. Her heart had been heavy with the burden of her own existence, a life that felt like an unending torment. The cold steel of the gun had seemed like the only solution to her suffering, a way to silence the cacophony of despair that plagued her.

Yet, even in her darkest moments, peace had eluded her. The gun had been a symbol of her struggle, a desperate attempt to end the torment that seemed inescapable. But peace was a luxury she could not afford, and the madness she had feared seemed to beckon her with each passing day.

As the shadows lengthened and the last rays of sunlight disappeared from her room, Miruna felt the weight of her existence press down on her with renewed force. The echoes of her past, the dreams that haunted her, and the reality of her present circumstances all converged in a melancholic symphony. Her apartment, once a refuge, now felt like a tomb, its silence a stark reminder of the solitude she could not escape.

In the stillness of the evening, Miruna found herself confronted with the harsh reality of her life. The bakery’s warmth had faded, leaving her with the cold comfort of her own thoughts. The darkness that had once seemed distant now felt inescapable, and the dreams she had once cherished were now fragments of a distant past. The weight of her melancholy pressed down on her, a reminder of the journey she had yet to complete, and the peace she so desperately sought remained as elusive as ever.

Interesting facts about Roma/Romani people:

Most Roma speak a variant of Romany, a language closely tied to the modern Indo-European languages of northern India, in addition to the dominant language of the country they reside in. It is widely accepted that Roma groups migrated from India in multiple waves, reaching Persia by the 11th century, southeastern Europe by the early 14th century, and western Europe by the 15th century. By the latter half of the 20th century, they had dispersed across all inhabited continents.

Source from Britannica

Disclaimer: Most of my interesting facts come from websites that are considered credible. My knowledge is very weak at best but I still want to share. If anyone has any facts they'd like to share send in a comment! ❤️

Taglist: @mysticalpandora @ultimatreality @lovecleastrange @watercolorskyy @rockerchick05 @lyarr24 @runnning-outof-time, @babayaga67

[dreamersinthedaylightinspo]

Eunomia slept like a rock. The healer worked over her while she rested and she woke, eventually, to peals of laughter and golden sunlight streaming into the birthing room. Nahida pronounced her able, and she found that she was able to stand and walk without help. A servant came to bring her pastries and fresh flower-scented tea with a wedge of lemon. Her body still tingled with the effects of the magic; though her body moved when she willed it and she wasn't in pain, she felt strange and tender and empty.

And, again, mostly, she missed her mother.

At first, she'd cried helplessly at the idea of bringing a child into the world without her family's support. Even after months, the pangs of anxiety she felt never lessened. But she found, when she stepped into the hall and was greeted with elated cheers and congratulations from half the living creatures in Rosehall, that she needn't have worried in the slightest.

The birth of a faerie child - of a High Lord's child - had caused celebratory commotion like Nomi had never seen. It was comparable to the breaking of Amarantha’s curse in Rhodes. After she managed to fight her way through the well-wishers, Tamlin informed her that they were expecting guests - representatives from the nearby villages were coming to Rosehall to pay tribute to Spring's new princess.

In response to her expression, Tamlin shrugged.

"If anything, this is your fault, my dear. Everyone likes you; they didn't care nearly so much when I was born."

Indeed - by lunchtime, the hall was swarming with faeries of all sorts. Stout dwarven-kin, nimble goblins, pixies and sprites, even tiny wil-o-the-wisps no bigger than the nails on her littlest finger. Wraiths and nymphs peeled themselves out of trees and ponds and sat themselves down for lunch in the gardens. The sentries and stabelhands joined the kitchen staff to help prepare meals for the travelers but many seemed to have brought their own food.

And with that, the gifts. Nomi accepted cuttings from gardens, little dresses and shoes and hats, music boxes, dolls and pillows and blankets, and all manner of more impractical things - a necklace of freshwater pearls, a loadstone, the branch of a cherry tree with a single, eternal pink blossom affixed to the end.

The other High Lord's, too, were prompt in their tributes. Helion sent a basket of fruits - pomegranates and oranges, adorned with rosemary, and other symbols of prosperity and longevity - and a handwoven blanket with the solar motif of the Day Court. This was Nomi’s favorite present. Thesan sent the most practical gift: a clever pair of looking glasses that were meant to be placed, one at the cradle and one on the parent's nightstand, enchanted so that they would know if the baby became fussy at night. Naturally, this was Tamlin's favorite.

Tarquin sent a set of seaglass windchimes to hang above Semele's cradle. Kalias sent her a practical winter coat - deep purple and lined with white fox fur, a few sizes large so that she could grow into it - and a matching hat, mittens, and boots. Eris sent a circlet of bronze and gold apple blossoms, which was very pretty though both Nomi and Tamlin agreed that they couldn't really picture Semele wearing such a thing.

The Night Court sent a note affixed to a bottle of wine. It read, "Good luck, you'll need it."

"Its not even a good vintage," Lucien complained when he saw this. He popped the cork and took a swig, swallowing bitterly. "Cheap bastard."

"No cursing in front of the baby," Elain scolded. Her smile was fixed to her face, though, and she promptly returned to cooing at Semele, who slept through all of this, somehow, and to Nomi's immense relief.

"You know," said Elain, leaning over to give Nomi one more peck on her cheek. "I don't recall nearly so much fanfare when Nyx was born."

"Typical of the Night Court," said a passing sentry, dispassionate. "Hide the lady's pregnancy til the last moment, then pretend it's business as usual."

"Its different here," Nomi agreed, shifting Semele slightly in her arms. She was heavy, and yet weightless, and soft. "What do humans do, when a child is born?"

Elain shrugged. "Oh, not much. It'd be bad luck to celebrate anything until they're about five or so - too old for faeries to want to eat them and such."

"No talk of cannibalism in front of the baby," said Lucien.

Luckily for all of them, Tamlin was utterly obssessed with his daughter and was cataloging her every expression or new experience, and told these stories with enormous pride to anyone who happened to stand in his presence.

///TO BE CONTINUED

[brandonsdrunkagain]

Birthday Month!

August is over and here are some beers! Designated SIPA and Pop Fly American Ale from Rally Cap Brewing, Holy Goats Triple IPA from Cypress Coast Brewing, Tangerine Triple Stars Triple IPA from Celestial Brewing, Candied Pecan Pastry Stout from Untitled Art, Blackened Skies Sour Stout from Jester King and Weathered Souls Brewing, Commencement Wild Ale from Vista Brewing, Cosmic Mutant from Oskar Blues and Oktoberfest from BJs Brewhouse.

[rhinokck]

Side by side of dessert stouts from Colorado. First up was El Churro, a pastry stout from Crooked Stave out of Denver. Rich & roasty & the cinnamon really comes through start to finish, but I did not get much of the vanilla. Next up was Little Man Salted Oreo Stout from Weldwerks Brewing out of Greeley, CO. A stout. Treed with ice cream, Oreos, vanilla, milk sugar & sea salt. This one was super interesting, sweet with hints of chocolate & vanilla up front, yet the salt really comes through on the finish. One of the more full flavored stouts I’ve had lately, complex and robust.

[kat-is-laem-oa]

Chapter 1: EMIEL

(Next Chapter)

The man who entered the room was shrouded in darkness, both literally and figuratively. His features were hidden beneath a cloak of shadows, and his piercing gaze seemed to cut through the dimly lit space. As he and his crew walked through the door, their presence alone demanded attention and respect. It was clear that they meant business, and their purpose here was serious. Their appearance was out of place on this side of Kerch, so far from the bustling streets of Ketterdam. Belendt was a small town on the outskirts, known for its quiet streets and peaceful community. The sudden arrival of these strangers had disrupted its tranquility, sending whispers and speculation rippling through the townspeople.

“We are looking for Emiel.”

As soon as Miss Kaatje heard the name, she felt a nervous chill run down her spine and her shop suddenly felt stifling. She fought not to stumble over her words, a rare sight for her, trying to comprehend why three unfamiliar faces had come seeking one of her assistants, who was only a young Fabrikator boy hidden in the back of the parlor.

“You just missed him by about… three months or so.”

The man's eyebrows scrunched, eyes and mouth forming lines. He leaned in closer, voice laced with disbelief as he asked, "Really?"

Kaatje's words were delivered with a tone of polite authority, her eyes scanning the trio before her. They stood awkwardly in the little café she’d called Kaat Skratch. Their nice clothes slightly rumpled and hair windblown while the smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries lingered in the air, tempting their grumbling stomachs. Kaatje herself was focused on the pile of dishes in front of her, her hands moving deftly as she washed and dried each one with care. With a final flick of her dishcloth, she turned back to face the group. "If you three would like something to eat or drink," she began again, gesturing towards the inviting tables and chairs around them, "please feel free to let me know. However," she added firmly, "if you aren't paying customers, I'll have to ask you to leave." Her friendly smile faltered slightly as she awaited their response. 

Almost comically-timed, had it not been for the vibe of the situation, another bartender yelled out while walking further into the back rooms, “Emiel! I need your help with something before rush hour!”

The tallest of the trio couldn't help but make a joke, "I guess he didn't travel very far in three months." The female beside him gave a slight nudge in response. Meanwhile, Kaatje remained still as ever, leaning back against the edge of the sink with her arms crossed and letting out a sigh.

“What do you want with the boy?”

"At least have a conversation, Miss?," Kaz asked, trying to remember her name.

“Kaatje. Remember that name. If anything happens to that kid, I’ll be on your tail,” the woman growled, pointing a finger at the tallest. In response said man nodded vigorously and scrunched his nose in agreement. “He’s not hard to find, sticks out a bit,” added Kaatje with another sigh. The girl of the group remained still until the other boys walked off in the same direction as the boisterous bartender.

“What do we think is the deal with him? Maybe a funky nose, missing limb, different colored eyes, hm?”

The girl’s voice joined in, a hopeful note laced with caution, “I hope it’s something as simple as that.”

The three teens tiptoed towards the cracked door, their footsteps muffled by the worn carpet beneath them. Kaz held a finger to his lips, silencing any potential noise from his companions. They peered through the gap, eyes adjusting to the dimly lit room. The bartender, a stout man with a thick beard and surprisingly high pitch voice, was regaling a brown-haired coworker with some trivial tale from the week. The coworker was busy reshaping a set of knives from the kitchen, his swift movements and precise control indicating that he was most likely a Fabrikator, as they had been told. But as their target seemed clear, there was still a sense of confusion among the group. Kaatje's description of the boy as "sticking out" didn't quite match up with what they were seeing before them.

It wasn’t until he turned around and crossed to the bartender that they realized it might’ve been his race. Emiel Elken was a fake, Kerch-imitation name; the boy was clearly of Shu descent. He appeared to be around the same age as Kaz's crew, maybe slightly older or younger. As the bartender carefully reviewed and packed up his collection of knives, Kaz subtly nudged the rotting door in front of him. With a creaking groan, it ominously swung open, startling the younger boy but merely alerting the other man to make his exit.

“Didn’t mean to run into another appointment, Elken. If you don’t have any more, we might need some help up front later, okay?”

The boy remained silent. His body spoke for him, curtly nodding while hunched in on itself as his eyes darted between his coworker and the unexpected visitors. The tense energy shifted abruptly as they entered, and once the door shut behind them, a heavy silence descended upon the room. Their presence seemed to have muted any sound or movement from the boy, leaving the air still and charged with uncertainty.

"Are you Emiel?" Kaz asked with his usual bored tone. He always seemed to lack any emotion except for annoyance and disdain towards life at all times.

Emiel paused for a moment, taking deep breaths before speaking. It seemed like forming words was a struggle, his hand reaching out to grasp them from an invisible barrier. Finally, he managed to say, "Yes, I'm Emiel Elken. What needs fixing?" His speech had a rehearsed cadence to it.

The tallest of the group chimed in with a strong, charming Zemeni accent as he scanned the area. He couldn't deny the curiosity that sparked within him, his gaze becoming slightly lost in the enchanting features of the shorter man behind the desk. Emiel's eyebrows furrowed like a curious puppy and he turned his head to the side, his expression matching the tilt of his head perfectly.

“I’m Kaz, this is Jesper and Inej,” pointing to the second man and woman respectively, 

“We've come to offer you a job,” Kaz declared, cutting off Jesper's attempt to speak. His voice was low and commanding, filled with an unspoken threat.

“I already have a job.”

“We have a new one for you. It's only temporary, and you can return to your current position by the end of the month,” Kaz remained vague with his explanation.

“I’m quite comfortable. Fabrikators aren’t exactly rare around here but it’s enough. What would be enough to make me join three strangers who showed up at my place of work?”

“10,000 Kruge enough?”

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆.

First chapter! I've been really into writing and I've planned a little bit for this. I'm so new to writing and I'm nervous but I hope this is interesting enough to catch your attention! Chapters will most likely be this size, but if any of you have suggestions for build or style, let me know~

I don't know what else to say, but much love! - Wren

[magicmarked]

✧ they asked me if i love her to death, and i said "speak of her over my grave and watch how she brings me back to life"

— mahmoud darwish, the butterfly's burden

Is that  AMOS DIGGORY  stepping out into Diagon Alley? Ministry records tell us that they were born on  APRIL 2ND  and are a  27  year old,  PUREBLOOD  who works as a  SINGLE DAD & LITTLE LEAGUE QUIDDITCH COACH.  Some have said that they can be described as being  PASSIONATE, SOCIAL & PROTECTIVE,  however, they also see themselves as being OBSTINATE, TEMPERAMENTAL & UNFOCUSED.  Apparently,  HE  look(s) a lot like  MICHAEL EVANS BEHLING,  whoever that is, and if they had to pick a side in the war, they would choose to  JOIN THE ORDER.

𓆩　𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯﹒ㅤBASICSㅤ﹒𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯ㅤ 𓆪

FULL NAME : Amos Percival Diggory.

NICKNAMES : Ame, Daddy.

AGE : Twenty-seven.

BIRTHDAY : April 2nd.

GENDER & PRONOUNS : Cis man, he/him/his.

SEXUALITY : Bisexual, biromantic.

RELATIONSHIP STATUS : Widowed.

AFFILIATION : The Order of the Phoenix.

FACECLAIM : Michael Evans Behling.

OCCUPATION : Single dad, part-time Little League Quidditch coach, former Magizoologist in training, but that doesn't pay the bills.

𓆩　𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯﹒ㅤPERSONALITYㅤ﹒𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯ㅤ 𓆪

POSITIVES : Passionate, social, protective, stout-hearted, loyal.

NEUTRALS : Grieving, mercurial, defiant, adventurous, daring.

NEGATIVES : Obstinate, temperamental, unfocused, audacious, blunt.

MORAL ALIGNMENT : Chaotic good.

WESTERN ZODIAC : Aries sun, Scorpio moon, Sagittarius rising.

HEAVENLY VIRTUE : Charity.

DEADLY SIN : Wrath.

TAROT CARD : The Tower ( upright ).

𓆩　𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯﹒ㅤFAMILYㅤ﹒𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯ㅤ 𓆪

FATHER : Cedric Diggory sr ( deceased ).

MOTHER : Catriona Diggory ( owner of the Murtlap Inn )

SIBLINGS : Twin sister, younger sibling.

SIGNIFICANT OTHER : Florence Diggory ( murdered 8 months ago ).

CHILDREN : Cedric Diggory jr ( almost 2 years old ).

PET(S) : N/A.

𓆩　𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯﹒ㅤMAGICAL PROFILEㅤ﹒𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯ㅤ 𓆪

HOGWARTS HOUSE : Hufflepuff.

ABILITIES : Almost fully trained Magizoologist.

WAND : Cedar wood, dragon heartstring core, 13", somewhat bendy.

PATRONUS : St. Bernard dog.

ASSOCIATED MEMORY : It is the first moments after Cedric's birth, the infant laying on his wife's chest, the happy but exhausted smile on her face, the warm feeling of joyous tears on his cheeks, happiness like he had never known before.

AMORTENTIA : Amos smells a forest bonfire first, with fragrant herbs added to add a pleasant scent to the flames, followed by orange blossoms, and finally, freshly made pumpkin pastries.

REVERSE AMORTENTIA : When thinking of Amos, you'll first be hit with the scent of bergamot, followed by undertones of freshly mowed grass, baby powder, and a vague but sharp tang of antiseptic.

BOGGART : It's a kneeling figure that resembles Amos himself, kneeling on a freshly overturned grave, that has the name of his deceased wife, and in scratch marks underneath it, the name of Cedric has been added.

𓆩　𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯﹒ㅤBACKGROUNDㅤ﹒𓇯𓇯𓇯𓇯ㅤ 𓆪

[ trigger warnings for : pregnancy, murder, grief ]

Amos Diggory had always enjoyed a simple life. There was no great tragedy or betrayal haunting his family, his parents were happily married, their jobs kept the Diggory family in comfortable middle class life, they weren't known pureblood supremacists, nor were they blood traitors — no, everything about Amos' life was perfectly content, average almost, and he certainly enjoyed it that way.

The first perceived tragedy came to Amos when his twin sister was sorted into Gryffindor and he was sorted into Hufflepuff. It was made worse by the Sorting Hat's doubt — he almost made it into the house of lions with her, almost, but not quite. Hufflepuff suited Amos just fine, but being separated for the first time in his life certainly did not. With how many of their peers had more tragic upbringing, Amos' complaints were brushed off by both his housemates and the school staff, but to him? This mole hill was a mountain.

Forced to be on his own, away from family for the first time, Amos spent the first few weeks at Hogwarts with a grumpy frown on his face — though it didn't last long. He had always been naturally gregarious, a good time boy, easy-going and even easier to befriend, and if there was one thing Amos could not bear, it was loneliness. He thrived during his school years, there was sometimes a certain guilt at his lack of involvement in the horrible war consuming his peers, but Amos did not feel strongly enough to sign himself up for something so deadly.

After graduation, he was aimless — he'd hoped for a Quidditch scouting (despite subconsciously knowing he was not good enough to play professionally), but found himself with less prospects than he thought. He drifted through a series of jobs, bartending at his parents' inn, security guard at Gringotts, even spent a month or two in hitwizard training — until one day, a few years after graduation, he ran into his former Care of Magical Creatures professor. Surprisingly gifted at the subject and having spent many summers on his cousin's Erumpent range, he fell into an apprenticeship with a Magizoologist head first — though the pay was poor and the days long, he finally found something that truly brought him passion and excitement.

Travelling the world changed Amos somewhat, he came home more cultured, more experienced, more daring. No longer simple, but with a love for adventure — which was what first drew him to Florence. Bold and exciting, she loomed larger than life in the pub where they first met — her smile lighting up the room. Their romance started as a whirlwind, and by the time Amos realized how engrained she was with the Order of the Phoenix, he was already head over heels. As a muggleborn, Florence had strong opinions on pureblood supremacy and was never afraid to voice them. Amos felt lost in that world occasionally, increasingly worried for her safety.

Cedric was not planned, but he was news happily received. Amos would be a full-fledged Magizoologist soon enough, and Florence was a gifted Cursebreaker. They married in a small, private ceremony, not wanting to scare her Muggle family too much, and welcomed Cedric six months later. However, there was an increase in the recklessness that consumed Florence after their child was born. She wanted to make the world safe for him — but as a result, put herself into danger more often. There was a sense of dread haunting Amos, one that was unfortunately confirmed eight months ago, when Aurors knocked on his door with the news of his wife's murder at the hands of suspected Death Eaters.

Amos wanted to let his grief consume him. When his father had died of illness a few years ago, he had been sad, but it had been bearable — the death of Florence threatened to tear him apart. He could not let it happen, he was desperately willing for it not to happen. Cedric needed him. Cedric needed him. Barely a year old, and desperately missing his mama — Amos had something earth shattering happen to him, but he could not let it break him. Shoving down his heartwrenching grief, Amos pushed forward instead.

He left behind his passion for Magizoology for a better paying job at the Quidditch stadium, coaching the children's team. He moved back to his parental home, out of the small cottage filled with memories of Florence and their life together. He attended the trial for his wife's murderers with a stoic, still expression. There was so much emotion churning underneath the surface, and soon there was a fist shaped indent in the door to his bedroom. Anger took over grief, and Amos found himself following in Florence's footsteps, joining the Order — at least, that's what he tells himself. Nevermind that it is a good outlet for his anger too.

Eight months since her death, and Amos is holding himself together with duct tape and a prayer. He had just found his life, his future, everything he had ever dreamed off — and now his world had ended. His family worries that Amos is hurrying towards his own early grave, and knowing Cedric would be alone is the only thought that brings some caution to his deeds. But there is always a cliff, and Amos is eagerly dangling off the edge.

TLDR : Danai loves hurting characters. Amos was a middle class, easy-going young guy, never involved in the war or politics, enjoying his neutrality. He apprenticed as a Magizoologist for years, travelling the world and finding new adventures. He fell head over heels in love with a muggleborn Order member named Florence, and together they had a child, Cedric. Eight months ago, Florence was murdered by suspected Death Eaters, shattering his life. He is growing increasingly angry and reckless as a result, and is trying desperately to keep himself together for the sake of his son.

[adventurersdelight]

🍕 ( Johanna &. David )

Symbolic Questions

🍕 = What is your muse’s usual pizza order? Do they order any drinks, sides, or desserts to go with it?

Despite her feminine appearance, Johanna likes her pizzas heavy and stout. A good day's work deserves a good day's meal, after all! So, she's the type to enjoy a fantastic deep dish with plenty of protein piled in. She'll order a mug of ale to go with it, having learned from the best about how to unwind with good food. She likes eating pizza with bitter things on the side to balance the savory and greasy flavors with something clean.

David, on the other hand, likes a thin-crust pizza loaded with vegetables. Vegetables are the unsung heroes of the food world as too many people fail to appreciate the subtle flavors they bring when cooked! A pizza is a wonderful vehicle of delivering those flavors! He's not much on alcohol, preferring drinks like coffee and tea to help food go down and settle. He goes heavy on side orders, picking whatever catches his interests at the time. Dessert is a big option too! He prefers colder sweets to warmer ones, but isn't about to right off a good pie or fresh pastry!