#also I love elote

[iron-sparrow]

let's enjoy some elote together 🌽

[howdoidothiss-blog]

Me and my sister FINALLY got to 4x02 😐 bro fuck that bro wtf 😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐😐 Are they gonna replace the loml with MORDRED?? From what I’ve seen???? I’m feeling ill

Lance 😭 rip buddy they had to write u out bc u have too much chemistry with literally everyone

I had a feeling this was coming but I wanted to stay in denial

I am LOVING the knights tho but that’s a different post

I’m on s3 of watching Merlin for the first time and when I tell y’all I am SO EXCITED to get to the knights of the round table 🤭🤭🤭 I’ve been getting FOMO every time I see them on this app

+Lancelot 🧎🏻‍♀️👹🫶 (slightly fearing for my life? But I need to see him again) +Gwaine is already SO iconic??? and I’ve only known him one episode

I’m giggling rolling around kicking my feet thinking about them

[dreadfutures]

Fan Work Friday

Rules: If you’re tagged, MAKE A NEW POST to showcase one fanartist and/or fanfic for any fandom you recommend (with links), and tag someone to give their recs next! Don’t forget to reblog the rec you were tagged in, and include these rules! :)

Bonus: Choose works by people you aren’t super tight with, or choose older works that maybe haven’t gotten some love in a while. :)

Fanartist: @kiivg

The first time I saw one of kiivg's pieces, I had the thought: I've never seen anything like this. Then I did a double-take, because even though I can't pinpoint it, this style strikes me as quintessentially storybook. It should be on the cover of a comic, or it should be a bonus chapter illustration in your favorite novel--both because of the striking style and the amount of STORY King packs into each single standalone piece.

The first of King's works I saw was one that I consider really KING now: oriented so that I had to tilt my head to get the full picture. I find it only pulls me in deeper, looking really closely at every detail before I get the full picture. Here's one of my favorites (give it a reblog!):

Definitely give King a follow. When they do post art, they have plenty of Dragon Age, Cyberpunk, and BG3 art to wow you with!

Fanfic: its free son - SlinkySpiders

The note I had in my bookmarks was: "there are elotes in gotham and this author is my hero"

SURPRISE this is a fanfic for the Robert Pattinson The Batman film, which I think is a nearly perfect hopepunk movie, and the first Bruce Wayne I've ever seen on film who NEEDS A ROBIN. So here, have a batdad and his kid.

I love an awkward man trying his best to be a parent to a kid who has the same problems he did. Let's parent our inner childs through real children, that's my weakness. Also, Dick gets to be childhood friends with Barbara Gordon, so that's great.

It's "unfinished" but I think it does just fine for what it is, and I hope people enjoy!

Rating: G Pairing: Bruce Wayne & Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne & Alfred Pennyworth, Selina Kyle/Bruce Wayne Chapters: 2 (unfinished) Length: 11,678 Summary: Three years after the events of the Riddler, Bruce finds himself taking care of an eleven-year old, completely out of his depth.

That's my post for this week! I'm excited to see what everyone tags me in. It's been great to find new artists and fics through this game. :)

Tagging:

(again, for any fandoms! let's spread the positivity <3)

@thedreadblog | @noire-pandora | @wolfsskull

@demarogue | @thevikingwoman | @anneapocalypse | @fiadhaisteach | @victoriousscarf

@kiastirling

@warpedlegacy | @rakshadow | @rosella-writes | @effelants | @bluewren | @breninarthur

@ar-lath-ma-cully | @inquisimer | @crackinglamb | @theluckywizard | @nirikeehan

@oxygenforthewicked | @exalted-dawn-drabbles | @melisusthewee | @blarrghe | @delicatefade

@leggywillow | @about2dance | @plisuu

[transgenderer]

im often kind of emo about my psychology but i get a stupid amount of joy from really apt pokemon pairings for fictional characters. WAIT WAIT. you could do it with real people.

nate silver pokemon team

do you guys have other ideas. porygon 2 because hes cute and red and blue like an electoral map and most of all computersy like nate. alakazam for seeing the future, there ar elots of psychic pokemon that see the future but most of them are passive about it but alakazam isnt ALSO hes a millenial so he needs at least one gen one pokemon. could definitely see a xatu though. and passimian because he loves sports :)

[meliake]

When I first watched Fma I was around Alphonse's age, and I related to him deeply. When you're a kid, It's like no one is giving you the guidance you need and also you have no agency. I was a dumb kid, and Al's steadfast elotional support was an idol for me growing up.

But then I kept growing up, Al wasn't the brother I was connected to. It was Ed. Maybe it was just the fact he was the main character, but I related to him on a fundemental level. He can't control his emotions sometimes and cares deeply about the people he loves, but has trouble expressing it î a meaningful way. He's insecure about his appearance and is filling shoes too big. He even had the 'gifted child gets thrown down a peg by his ego and life's permanently altered' (bro is literally an adhd metaphor) so to say I related to him was an understatement.

That's just a testiment to the writing, and it's ability to display the ambition of youth and the loss of innocence.

[randomchips]

I just wanted to say that the Bbh, Etoiles and Quackity stream will be on my mind for a long time

Loved watching it from EVERY pov:

Etoiles helping Quackity and shouting supportive frases, while laughing at Quackity's words that he occasionally understood like: "p*ta madre".( apparently he's studied Spanish before so he understood a little and found Quackity very funny)

Quackity enthusiastically trying and failing to loot the dungeon, thinking that Etoiles is making fun of him and calling him names like "Etolé", "Atole", "Elotes" and even "Pozole" at some point.

And then there's Bad, who appeared out of nowhere started helping them (mostly Q cause he's bad at the game) even though in canon Quackity is now angry with him lol, and just brought great vibes overall. Also the backpack he gave Q <3

Anyways, hope they stream together more often, they really made me laugh a lot.

[mad-c1oud]

MAD. I have so many things i love abt your fics. in no order:

The panick from elotes when he sees charlie die from dehydration and he decides ‘fuck emotional maturity’ !!!!! OH GOD ITS SO GOOD

I think CONSTANTLY about when charlie was like ‘you dont have to call me slime, it isnt, like, reserved’ and they talk and etoiles goes ‘oh and you can say my name right’ and slime goes WHAT. Oh god i think abt it like daily and have a giggle

In fake it till you make it when charlie is calling etoiles all the nicknames and antoine just pretends like nothing is happening ❤️❤️

on the topic of fitymi, THE KISS GLASS FACTORY SCENE. RENT FUCKING FREE. The way you wrote it and then THE COPS KNOWING LMAOOO IT DIDNT WORK. Roier chanting “mi dinero!” Bc he won the bet is CHEF KISS

when etoiles casually kisses charlie and leaves, phil’s reaction when he realizes is GOLD KKKKK. “Is that why charlie has been blowing up my phone?” And etoiles going “i kissed and now i am telling” AGH

The intro (?) scene to immi where etoiles is just like ‘its okay its okay its okay he doesnt need items, hes really doing just fine–’ so he doesn’t rip charlies armor off where hes standing is HILARIOUS

“He is here. He is ravenous” then charlie dying to eater of suns was my favorite bc ITS SO IN CHARWCTER LMAO. HE WOULD.

How etoiles breaks a million avocados as baghera pulls out all the arrows from charlie. You can //feel// the need to protect coursing through his veins and poor bro has to make dinner

How youve written TWO scenes where etoiles brain fails upon imagining charlie in eyeliner. I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE (i am too)

Not a apecific scene, but the (in immi) motif of charlie not feeling like enough so he always has to bring //something//.

GOD THE ENTIRE MOST RECENT CHAPTER OF IMMI. STAN FERAL HYBRID. STAN THEIR ONE SAFE PERSON. HAHAIXHSNAJAJJSUXIXIWWNKEODOEPQPEI

The immi scene where etoiles tells charlie about the bug :(

God how //unserious// charlie is about being hurt (and probably etoiles but they have different ways of unserious). Its so true to his character but i still wanna just SHAKE HIM so he doesn’t crack jokes //while he’s bleeding out//

The scene where etoiles rushes charlie back. It feels so rushed but not like you wanted to get it over with, just… like everything is a blur to etoiles while hes doing this. Like he remembers the steps he took but not what he felt when he took them. (Also how he gives himself five seconds to scream into a pillow. Felt that. STAN.)

Him asking for two cookies from phil bc he is ‘fading fast’ and when phil shows up he pretty much (albiet accidently) tunes oht phil bc he //cant look away from charlie–//

That stupid fucking cod elotes put in the barh idk if it has a name but I have a love/hate relation with it. I wonder if they kept it.

“Its not a waste with you” KILL ME THEYRE IN LOVE

When etoiles tells him to say if he feels hurt, then charlie starts crying and e is like “eh! Im so sorry what did i do you didnt say anything–” and charlies like eueuue youre so nice

Charlie purring… yes… YESSS…. (Love it when anything and everything hybrid purrs 💖)

“My cucumber” ….

When charlie pretends to be etoiles boyfriend to get into the hospital (fitymi) and the nurses are like uh this guy named charlie- and elotes goes “hehehehhhh yeahh charlie. He’s my bro” and the nurses take that as dating (BECAUSE WHAT ELSE IS IT????)

sorry tjis was so long i just had a chance to rant abt your writing and BY GODS NAME DID I TAKE IT

💖i hope you fee better

DUDE 😭😭😭

This is the best thing I’ve ever read. People always comment on chapters and fics in that moment they read them usually, so I’m always curious what sticks with people weeks later, what occupies their brain again and again long after reading…

Reading all this had me smiling so fucking big it Hurts oh my good you are so sweet dude

To answer your question: Charlie kept the cod Paul! It lives in the little pond he has in the greenhouse. It was supposed to be mentioned during the birthday chapters, but I reworked a lot of content and it not longer fit nicely so I just took it out for now. The feesh will be seen again…

The nicknames in fake it were my favorite part. I got like three sentences in and was like— hold on Idea—

And yeah Charlie giving things to Étoiles in immi, that comes a personal habit. Qcharlie has been broken down time and time again that this amount of unwavering kindness feels illegal to accept. He’s had to pay the price for so much, so sure this too right? Étoiles wants to shake him <3

YEHAHHH THE NAME THING IN IMMI!!! Man I needed a way to ween Étoiles into calling him Charlie that was just causal cause that’s Boring, and I wanted to acknowledge the face that irl, ccChatlie didn’t know how to pronounce his name at first either lmao

i like Charlie in eyeliner, sue me….

One of my favorite chapters might just be A Bandage. From the other islanders to the cooking to karaokeduo to the Chittering!!!!! Idk that one holds a special place in my heart <3

Also fun fact: I had like, 4 other fake dating scenarios I jotted down for fake it but I was worried the fic would turn into immi which also started as a 5+1 so I scrapped some ideas and kept a it short and sweet. kinda regret it and wish I could rewrite it but I still like what it turned in to

Man reading my own work through your comments is really nice. Gives me a better appreciation for what I’m creating haha

Thank you sm for all this, it means a lot and it’s never too long trust me <333

[jowrites]

Accidents can Happen - 13. Happiest man alive (written)

Main Masterlist Here.

Prev. Next.

Disclaimer: Jake and Sunghoon are aged up, both 25. Reader is 24. Heeseung is 26.

TW: Cursing, sexual themes, sex in general? more to be added...

When YN woke up the next day, her head was foggy and her stomach was aching. She knew she probably had to eat something and eat it fast. She looked to her side and saw Jake still soundly asleep, his arm draped over her waist and she didn’t want to disturb him so she quietly and quickly snuck out of bed and made her way down the hall towards the kitchen. He had stocked up on all her favorite snacks here as well and she rolled her eyes and smiled to herself. How sweet he was.

She began to munch on a banana as she found some bread, avocados and all her cravings. She opened a can of corn and began to warm it up in a pan with some salt and pepper. She toasted some bread and cut up an avocado. When the corn was done and the avocado was neatly spread on the bread, she put some hot sauce and mayonnaise in the corn, with a dash of lemon, and to her surprise he even had cotija cheese. Perfect for her elote avocado toast. As she munched on her toast, she began to make breakfast fully for Jake.

Jake stirred in his sleep, feeling over to an empty spot beside him. He opened his eyes and he could  taste the bacon on his tongue. He checked the time and saw it was 10:24 am which he didn’t care for, he’s his own boss he can do work when he feels like. He needed to find YN first. He got up and made his way towards the smell, hearing the sizzling in the kitchen. YN was humming to herself as she stood with her back towards Jake and he just watched and stared in admiration. Once he snapped out of his daze, he went for it.

YN jumped slightly at the arms around her, coming up and caressing her belly, which was now growing bigger each day, and felt his chin on her shoulder. 

“How long have you been awake?” He asked.

“Not long, I had to seriously eat something, my stomach was hurting,” she began to rub her hands over his and he frowned.

“Are you feeling okay? You should sit down,” He told her trying to take her place by the stove.

“I’m fine, Jake,” she laughed. “I quickly ate some toast and I felt better. Thought I’d make us some breakfast though.”

“Oh, okay. That’s good,” he let out a sigh in relief.

“Go set the table, the bacon should be done soon and I already made some omelets,” she ordered and he nodded.

He quickly did as she told, getting some juice for her and a cup of coffee for him. He grabbed one of the smoothies as well to make sure she got all her nutrients for the day. She walked over with the plates of food and set them down and the two sat down with each other. She made omelets, bacon, toast and some fruit. There was a comfortable silence between them and Jake’s heart was bursting with fondness at how normal this felt. How right this felt.

“You didn’t have to do all this you know,” he said as he began to plate his food.

“You think I did this for you? I’m growing a human you know, most of this is for me,” She winked and he laughed.

“Ah, of course. The baby must get all her nutrients first,” he agreed.

“I wanted to do something nice while we talked,” she began to say, suddenly feeling shy and trying to hide the blush on her cheeks.

“Hm?” He encouraged her to continue as he began to eat.

“I agree,” she said.

“Agree?” He raised an eyebrow.

“Or like…accept. The past 3 months have really been the best time I’ve had with someone and I can sense your genuineness. I would be lying if I said I didn’t have feelings for you and…I want our baby to grow up in a loving home with loving parents too,” she said, rubbing her belly. “I didn’t quite have that and I would never want the same for my child.”

Jake leaned over and grabbed her hand, encouraging her to continue and she looked up and smiled.

“So yes, let’s try this and also I’ll move in with you,” She continued and Jake’s face lit up.

“Really? You’ll seriously move in?” He said in excitement.

“Mhm,” she nodded.

“Oh this is the best day of my life! Screw work, that can wait! We can do it today!” He got up and kissed her head jumping in excitement and she just laughed.

“You’re really strange, Jake Sim,” She said.

“I’m not strange, I’m just really happy. You’ve just made me the happiest man on this planet.”

[lowcallyfruity]

🍴🥺👉👈

SHOOPY!!! OKAY-

TO ME. YOU REMIND ME OF ELOTE PREPARADO.

AOUFH THIS IS SO GOOD…. Idk to me you remind of ‘spicy’ food… fiery but at the same time really nice… like yayy ^_^ also very sweet and savory… like idk

Idk this is one of my favorite foods… I love eating it… it’s so fucking good it fills me up and oaushdjssj

👍👍👍 you’re so cool Shoopy

BONUS!!!!

YUU SHI!!! Yuu shi reminds me of a mangonada!!! (Specifically the one with mango slices , bc there’s a version that has like mango slushee)

She reminds me of it because she’s so gaslight gatekeep girlboss… morally gray… and I support women’s rights and wrongs. Mangonadas, depending on how you make them can be very spicy.,, but because of the mango slices they’re also very sweet.. but also have that.. tangy? Mango taste… like yknow when mangos aren’t fully sweet….

JOCIA!!!!

Jocia reminds me of these little candy cups… baisically we take and fill it with Mexican candy…. The candies vary from spicy, sweet and sour… then we cover it chamoy… these cups can also be filled with other things along with candy… like peanuts or chips..fruits… but it commonly has candy and mango…

I think these are so her because, she’s very sweet, but she also has that ‘delinquent’ side to her…. Aoufhhhh <3 and that’s the spice- the little kick <3

AOUGH SHE REMINDS ME OF FRUIT CUPS TOO!!! WHICH IS LIKE THE CANDY CUPS BUT ITS JUST DIFFERENT TYPES OF FRUIT WITH TAJIN AND CHAMOY <33 ALSO ALSOOO. WE HAVE THIS CANDY AND ITS AN APPLE COVERED IN CHAMOY/tamarindo🤤🤤🤤

[iron-sparrow]

21. If they had to summarize their journey in Tural, what would they say?

Elote.

Okay, maybe not just corn.

Tural was everything Yein could have hoped for, and also nothing like they expected. They traveled across the salt knowing this would be the furthest away they've ever been from home.

But the spirit of Azem can't be denied! Their wanderlust and thirst for (violent) adventure ensured they take every leap presented to them. And by all accounts, Yein was expecting to be more of a spectator in the Dawnservant trials...

In the end, this vacation did not turn out to be as relaxing as it could have been. Yein has no regrets, though. I think that the events of Endwalker and getting to know Venat the way they did, they've really embraced their legacy as Azem. They will wander, trusting the star to guide them to where they are meant to go. All this to say that by the end of Dawntrail, Yein would have felt they were meant to visit Tural.

In Tural, they fell deeply in love again. In Tural, they met and nurtured a young Dawnservant, and confronted a civilization that defied everything they hold sacred about life and death.

"This is the life I am meant to live," they'd say. "Now I know my answer to Emet-Selch will eventually be: 'Yes, I have been there. I have seen it all.'"

Dawntrail-Inspired WoL/OC Questions

[fearhims3lf]

TIMING: Current

PARTIES: @loftylockjaw @fearhims3lf

SUMMARY: Mateo eagerly waits for both of his guests to arrive, and when he opens the door to expect Xóchitl there, he finds Wyatt instead. The two get to know each other much better.

WARNINGS: Small mention of grenades, but no actual detail

A-N-A-are-see-H-Y…!

Mateo bobbed his head along to the music in the background, sprinkling a few pinches of seasoning to the simmering pot. He lowered the heat and watched the bubbles settle before moving his attention to Angel, who was pestering him for some attention. “Oye mamacita, you’re gonna have to go to your room soon.” Angel groaned in response, and Mateo couldn’t help but shake his head with a chuckle. “It’ll be fine. Just a few hours. Besides,” He pointed to the window in the room, “You can literally just go out and have fun.” 

There was a knock at the door and she huffed, her tendrils lightly caressing Mateo before she trudged her way back to her room. He rolled his eyes, though there was no real irritation in his expression. In fact, there was only fondness for the monstrous creature slinking its way into hiding while Mateo bopped his way to answer the door. 

“Hey there, beauti…ful.” He quirked a brow at Wyatt and narrowed his eyes. “You’re not Xóchitl.” He snapped his fingers repeatedly and checked his watch, surprised to see that his girlfriend was running late. “Huh. Time flies, I guess. Well, come on in and have a seat.”

“Very astute of you,” Wyatt laughed, looking down his own front and giving a shrug. “Not since last I checked, anyway. Damn, did I really beat her here?” That was unusual, but then he supposed that her life had been a little unusual lately. To what degree he couldn’t be sure, and not just because she didn’t know how to explain it — his knowledge about things outside of shifters was terribly lacking. “Thanks for the compliment, though. I’ll cherish it always,” the lamia teased further as he followed Mateo back into the home. 

As promised, he was carrying an insulated bag with him, which he set on the counter after joining Mateo in the kitchen. “Ooh, that smells good,” he remarked with a nod toward the stove, unzipping the bag and reaching inside. Out of it, he pulled a baking sheet with wax paper tied down to it by string, and next came a large glass container. Setting the sheet on the counter, he glanced around the space until he located the oven. “Gonna need to borrow that for about fifteen minutes, these fellas are only half baked. This, however, is good to go.” Popping off the top, he revealed the elote salad, which still needed to be dressed with the cotija cheese, but that would come after plating. “Beignets,” he explained, gesturing at the baking sheet. “I’m no baker, really, but I made a practice batch earlier n’ they fucked, so.”

There was an easy grin that tugged on the mare’s cheeks, and he patted Wyatt on the shoulder. “Well, we got a shit ton of food tonight, which Xóchitl will love. I went a little crazy and made frijoles rancheros. A bit of more work to make, but it’s always worth it.” Mateo stirred the pot and removed his gorditas from the oven to make room for Wyatt’s container. After, he quickly turned the music down and eyed the tv, which was also a little too loud for conversation. He almost forgot he was waiting to see his latest job on the screen. 

“Uh, you mind turning down the volume for me? The remote’s right there.” His chin jutted toward it on the counter as he sorted the food on the island. “The oven is all yours now. It’s set at the lowest heat so it’ll just take a sec to get to whatever you put it at.” He drummed his fingers on the countertop and chuckled softly at the elote salad Wyatt had put together. “Man, there’s just something about white people and their ability to make a salad or casserole out of anything.” Mateo raised his hands to gesture there was no hostility toward the idea. “I ain’t complainin’, mind you,” He winked, “It definitely looks like it tastes good.”

Wyatt let out a laugh, somewhat floored by the very accurate observation. “I am but a simple country boy,” he drawled, hand splayed across his chest as the other reached for the remote as requested. “Anyway, she travels better like this! Gimme a break.” Snickering, he lowered the TV volume before setting the remote aside and permitting himself a better look at his company for the evening. Wyatt didn't think that Mateo had any idea he was the alligator he'd met in the woods, but there was only one way to change that. 

“Hey, I got a question for you, before the lady gets here… where's a guy gotta go to get grenades ‘round here? I still got the one you gifted me, ain't found the perfect thing to blow up with it yet, but you awoke somethin’ in me, I think.” He was giving Mateo a knowing smirk, brows raising expectantly as he awaited a response, moving to the oven to adjust the temperature.

Mateo’s brows rose, almost immediately cinching together as Wyatt asked about grenades. He could count on one hand how many people he’d given grenades to. In fact, there was only one person. Felix hadn’t wanted to take the gift, going so far as to not even touch the thing in fear that it would explode right in front of them. That left only the alligator man that had rightfully complimented Mateo’s ass. Unless somehow the mare had forgotten he’d given Wyatt one, and he wouldn’t put it past himself. 

The man had needed a lot of cheering up as of late, and men love explosions, but he would’ve remembered handing over such a powerful item. He decided to pry a little. “Uh…you sure I’m the one who gave that to you?” Mateo wet his lips and leaned on the island, scrubbing his face. “Do you even know how to handle that thing? Do you…” His eyes widened, “Do you have it on you right now?”

Wyatt scoffed, turning away from the oven to look at Mateo. “No, I don't have it on me now. It's safely tucked away at home. Come on… ‘course I'm sure you're the one that gave it to me. How could I forget such a spectacular ass that you made me compliment before you'd help me kill that fuckin’... whatever it was?” He folded his arms across his chest, looking terribly amused by the whole thing.

“Shockin’, I know. How can such a big, beautiful reptile fit into such a… comparatively small, less impressive human body? Easily, it turns out. Learned that trick when I was four or five.” He recalled Mateo having said something about how he wouldn't taste good, which could mean more than just ‘don't eat me please’, but Wyatt wouldn't press it. Yet. “Good thing I didn't eat you… woulda been awkward when I found out you were datin’ my best friend.” He smiled in spite of the grim statement. “Glad for it, even! That's new for me, congrats on breakin’ ground.”

A bewildered but impressed look skidded across Mateo’s features, and he had to stifle a chuckle of disbelief. Wyatt was the reptile that helped him kill the giant Godzilla thing a few weeks ago. They had blown that thing up into smithereens, and Mateo was miffed that he was none the wiser to what Wyatt truly was.

“You…you were that crocodile guy.” It sounded more like a question than a statement, but Mateo’s voice eventually settled into something much more grounded. Which was good because Mateo’s next question was an important one. “Does Xóchitl know?” He blinked several times, continuing to drum go fingers as his eyes grew distant in thought. “She doesn’t know what I am, to be clear. Been trying to find a way to bring it up, but it ain’t easy.”

Las Vegas celebutante found murdered in his home. Details to follow. 

The screen took the mare’s attention for a blink, but he kept the conversation on topic. “Haven’t been this way since I was a kid like you, so it’s been weird. Didn’t even want a relationship, and well,” Clicking his tongue, Mateo idly stirred the salsa he made. “Here we are. At least playing friendly with you is gonna be even easier.”

“Mm… technically yes, but let’s not go callin’ every gecko n’ salamander we see a lizard… follow?” Unlikely. How was anyone supposed to be able to follow his train of thought when he could barely do it himself? “Alligator. And no, she doesn’t.” Wyatt’s gaze jumped after Mateo’s to the TV screen, but he didn’t think much of it. “Ah… right. You mentioned you were undead.” There had been something else, too, but Wyatt was having a hard time remembering it. He closed his eyes for a moment, brows furrowed, trying to recall the brief conversation they’d had after blowing that bitey bastard to bits. “You said somethin’ ‘bout… bein’ nightmarish.” A comment he’d thought nothing of, before, but now…? Now his eyes opened again and he gave Mateo an inquisitive stare.

“Don’t suppose that was literal, was it?” There was a sort of agonized strain in the lamia’s voice that appeared once he realized he was potentially speaking to someone of the same species as his tormentor… and maybe someone that could help.

It was a bit uncomfortable, the way Wyatt’s eyes developed so much emotion in them. Xóchitl had briefly mentioned what was plaguing him, how he needed her in his times of distress. Every small detail was familiar to Mateo, having been through it himself. There was a huge difference, though. While Mateo had asked for it, taking the nightmares as a trial and less as a torment, he knew the implications there’d be when he confirmed what he was. 

That was just a leap he had to take, considering how ingrained Wyatt was to Xóchitl’s past. Mateo just hoped those nasty teeth—alligator teeth— wouldn’t need to immediately find something to chomp.

“Yeah.” He nodded, trying to look indifferent about his answer. More than ever, he wished it was just a bit closer to night so he could vanish into thin air if things went awry, but it appeared luck wasn’t on his side. Swallowing, Mateo figured he’d just have to settle for above average reflexes and the hidden weapons around the apartment. “Died after some…intense night terrors over several weeks, and here I am. Causing them to eat.” He clicked his tongue, “But I sure as hell have never tried anything on you, that’s for sure.”

Wyatt stared at Mateo quietly as he explained. His expression was hard to read, and he almost seemed to be making up his mind about something before saying the first words that came to him, which was unusual. The long pause following Mateo’s admission was both silent and deeply uncomfortable, stretching on and on until the oven beeped to signal that it was pre-heated. Wyatt relaxed his posture with a shrug.

“I figured. We’re good, by the way—I don’t got a problem with you. It’d be too hypocritical for even me to stomach if I gave you grief for that—I eat people. It’s whatever.” He frowned. “I just want to be left alone, is all. It’s fuckin’ me up. Been months of this shit. Can’t even fight right anymore.” He was losing control, yes, but not just of his decision-making abilities—he was starting to lose control of his shifting in general. Sometimes it took longer than he liked to make the shift happen in either direction. Sometimes it was only partial, even when he wanted it full. That was not sustainable, especially not in the Pit. It’d get him fucking killed in the ring. “Guy I know told me about usin’ salt… and somethin’ about a creature called a baku.” He shook his head. “I don’t… wanna do anythin’ that might… linger, you know?” Because I don’t want to accidentally fuck you up, was the part he left unspoken but likely still communicated to the other. “I just need real sleep.” He managed a somber smile, picking up the tray of beignets and sliding them into the oven. “Anyway. Help an idiot set a timer on this thing, would ya? Twelve minutes.” 

Mateo listened, and though he knew that it was likely another mare hurting Wyatt, he had to do something. There was an unspoken rule that you didn’t mess with anyone’s meals, but there was also an unspoken rule that you helped your girlfriend’s friends. Mateo was caught in the middle, and he really didn’t like it. 

“Okay.” He took a breath, taking out his phone and starting a timer to give himself a little more time to think, which was difficult when his latest kill was all over the tv screen. It was Mateo’s favorite pastime to watch as police had nothing on his victims, looking like idiots on the news, but that sadly had to wait. “Salt works, yeah. Put it around your bed. And-and really put it around. If you have it pressed against a wall, pull that shit away from it and make sure you close the circle.” He huffed, “For good measure, get the keyholes on your doors covered. Won’t allow them to get inside for sure.”

Setting his phone aside with the timer going, Mateo approached Wyatt and carefully put his hand on his shoulder, giving it a squeeze. For all intents and purposes, he truly did feel for him. None of his victims asked to be fed on, but the major difference was that he didn’t know them. Mateo knew Wyatt, and he mattered to Xóchitl. That changed everything, which was why it was so easy to make an offer. “Hey,” Mateo’s voice was soft, his eyes matching. “Stay here tonight. Couch is comfy, but, uh…” He chuckled, “Bed is big enough too. I help Xóchitl get a good night’s rest with my nicer talents. Can do the same for you, and no creepies will get in your head when I’m around.”

That made sense, which made Wyatt feel a little stupid for not thinking of it. Of course the wall wouldn't be enough of a barrier for one side—granted he didn't know how mares worked, really… still. He'd be pulling his bed away from the wall as soon as he got home. 

Which… sounded like it might not be tonight. The invitation was a little unexpected, in spite of the light flirting that had occurred online and Xó's assertions that Mateo would be open to that sort of thing. Unexpected, but certainly not unwelcome. Wyatt felt a smile creeping over his lips once more as he glanced at Mateo, not overlooking that gentle tone and expression he wore. “Yeah?” he asked quietly. “I wanna hear more about these nicer talents, but… that sounds great.” And it would certainly be a development he knew Xó would be ecstatic over, eager as she was to convince the two men to get to know each other. 

Waving some spirit fingers toward Wyatt, the mare booped the man’s nose and chuckled with a hint of endearment. “Can’t visit your place with those precautions, but like I said,” Mateo stepped a little closer, a breath away from Wyatt when he added, “Plenty room here.” He smiled, letting his lips brush against Wyatt’s cheek before he moved his attention toward the tv. 

With the reveals and explanations mostly out of the way, Mateo could focus on the jabbering cops and be amused with how clean his getaway was. They were stumped, and they would stay that way. For all intents and purposes, Mateo Lara didn’t exist on any payroll, and any contact information under any false identities he had given were dead ends. Victory was his, and Mateo felt like he couldn’t lose at all that night. Which left him to wonder how much he could win. He grinned, and patted Wyatt’s bum just before he trotted his way to the sofa.

“Why don’t we talk about both our talents over some beer while we wait? Grab two from the fridge and meet me on the couch.”

That was fine… Wyatt didn’t really want anyone over at his cabin right now, anyway. It had seen better days, and he hadn’t had the time or energy to take care of all the shit he’d broken in his nightmare-fueled panics, not now that he was working triple shifts at the Pit. 

A shiver ran up his spine at Mateo’s sudden proximity. If there’d been any shadow of doubt over his interpretation of the mare’s words, he was beyond it now. There was no misinterpreting that, and it was an arena that Wyatt was so well practiced in, he could do it in his sleep. … hah. He immediately felt more comfortable, slipping back into an old, familiar role as he watched Mateo’s attention shift again to the TV. What was that about? Having the news on to listen to stories about a murdered famous person was peculiar, but come to think of it, Mateo still hadn’t answered Wyatt’s question about where to get grenades. Not that he cared about the answer, but still… He gave the other a curious glance, wondering if… nah. That was silly.

Okay, so they were getting familiar quickly. Good. Wyatt preferred quick. He smirked, doing as he was told and getting said beers from the fridge before wandering his way back into the living room. Passing one to Mateo, the fighter sat beside him, draping an arm over the back of the couch behind him. “Talking about them sorta pales in comparison, don’t you think?” He knew Xóchitl would be arriving any moment now, but of course that would do little to deter him, all things considered. Anyway, he wasn’t sure how easily he could get through the shared meal if he was still wondering, and so before either of them could even crack open the drinks, Wyatt buttoned his question with proof of his point and let that free hand find a home on Mateo’s neck, pulling him closer as the shifter stole a hungry kiss. 

“Well if I show you all my tricks, one’d leave you asleep on the couch, and I’m pretty sure you wanna be awake right now.” Mateo laughed a little easier then, taking the beer and tilting it up in a silent thank you. “I’m sure your transformation to that form of yours is pretty dope, though. Is that at will?” He glanced briefly at Wyatt’s hand and arched a brow. “How sharp are those claws?” And how often did he use them? 

The man next to Mateo ate people, and had done so his entire life. Probably. At that point, it was speculation, but given that Wyatt has been whatever he is since he was born, the mare could only put two and two together. Mateo was just grateful that Xóchitl wasn’t on the menu, and likely never would be. She was well taken care of, and that’s all Mateo really wanted. She’d had enough grief as of late, looking like her sanity was on a tightrope most days, and it was thanks to Wyatt that she’d been able to cope. 

So when he pulled the mare in for what felt like a ravenous kiss, Mateo complied easily, with his own type of hunger. A need that had been ingrained in him for as long as he could remember. Because for as evil as Mateo could be, he knew he had to be the one to take on that burden. Being wild and dangerous was fun, sure, but it took a lot out of him most days. It wasn’t easy to watch a man’s life spill from his skull and drip from Mateo’s weapon. That was the price, though. And he’d pay it, gladly, through gritted teeth, every time. 

Especially when he could feel the sighs of relief against his lips. When a body’s tension detached away and sank into him instead. That’s what Mateo sought after for those he cared about, and he could see himself extending that to Wyatt, feeling it as he pulled him onto his lap.

“Yeah, at will.” At least it was supposed to be. It had always been, until after he’d murdered Samir in the ring. “And sharp enough to rip open just about anythin’,” Wyatt explained, more than a hint of pride in his voice. He’d shredded through all sorts of materials with his teeth and claws besides the obvious flesh, muscle, and bone. The design of his lineage was similar to that of the alligators that populated the bayous, but better. Stronger, hardier, more agile… crocodilian in every way that mattered, plus more.

Wyatt was aware of the situation he was getting himself into here, and honestly? It seemed pretty fucking sublime. The cherry on top would be the both of them being able to be honest with Xó about what they were, but that would come with time, he figured. For now he’d rather focus on the rewards to be reaped from fraternizing with both halves of a couple, the promise of attention he’d receive from such an arrangement almost more enticing than whatever magical influence Kieran was able to exert over him. It was neck and neck, really. 

Speaking of necks, his hands braced on either side of Mateo’s, beer abandoned on the coffee table. Those claws they’d been discussing started to make an appearance, thankfully at Wyatt’s behest this time, the tips of his fingers transforming effortlessly into something scaly and green-hued. One hand fell to Mateo’s shoulder, nails digging in gently, only a whisper of a threat that would never be made good, but was instead here for play. He pulled back for a breath, huffing against Mateo’s lips with a grin as he felt the other’s hands grip him tight. “How late you think she’s gonna be, cher?”

The delicacy of the situation wasn’t lost on the mare. He was venturing towards not one, but two relationships, for as long as Mateo could remember, he said he never even wanted that idea near him in the first place. Xóchitl had shown him how wonderful it could be, that the monotony and comfort of a single person could be fulfilling in countless ways, and it had been. Mateo loved it, even. He felt into pace with it easily and found himself happier than he had been in a while. 

But there were countless ways to be happy, weren’t there? No two were ever the same, and more than that, there was more than one way to have a relationship. Or rather, two. Or was it just one if they were all involved with each other? Or…was it? Mateo shook the thoughts away and shifted his focus elsewhere. Like the claws grazing his skin, but never quite digging in. He found that he liked that, and enjoyed more that Wyatt was being mindful of his flesh and of the time, but he was forgetting one thing.

“Late enough, I think.” Mateo chirped with a grin, “But uh…what about those beignets?”

“Fuck. See, this is why I don’t bake,” Wyatt laughed, returning himself to a fully human state as he poked his head up over the back of the couch. Right on cue, the timer on Mateo’s phone went off, and the shifter groaned while grinning. “Alright, okay… just... hold that thought. Hold it.” He pushed himself up and off of Mateo, grabbing the can he’d previously left on the table as he stood to go tend to the dessert and popping it open. He took a few steps toward the kitchen, paused and pointed a finger at Mateo, and raised his eyebrows. “Are you holding it? …. just makin’ sure.” God, it’d been a while since he’d felt comfortable enough to be his more relaxed, playful self. This was good. He didn’t know if it was the promise of a truly safe night of sleep or what, but he felt lighter than he had in months. It was something he hoped he could hold on to for a while. 

The doorbell rang just as he was snatching up an oven mitt and pulling out the tray of pastries. Wyatt grinned in the direction of the front door, calling out a long-winded cajun-french greeting  that Xochitl had heard countless times before, retrieving the honey and powdered sugar from his bag. “You’re just in time, babe!”

[never-not-ever]

The vibes today are not good and ironically the shirt that I'm wearing says good vibes.

This would have been a nice photo but he's all burry cause he kept moving.

I think I went to bed around 3, maybe 4am I can't remember. Lately when I start to get tired instead of taking my night meds and shutting the light off, I let myself doze off with the tv and lights still on. It's hard to explain but it's calming in a way.

I woke up around noon and went out with my Nana for her errands. She brought some stuff up to my cousin in NH and I did the driving. She can drive up there but she's been doing a lot lately so she asked and of course I said yes. Plus anytime we go out, near or far I always drive. The safer and faster alternative.

On the way back we stopped at Trader Joe's and I picked up my tried and trues: jumeokbap-legit obsessed right now. It's these little triangle fried rice balls that have beef-less bulgogi that tastes so much like the real thing! Also got their butternut squash raviolis which I've loved for years. A couple things I got to try are their frozen chana masala, garlic naan, and everything and the elote dip. They have the best frozen food and my freezer is full. I'm also hooked on their meatless "orange" chicken, it's like crack!

Anyways so now it's 5ish and it looks like the sun is trying to come out and I'm not about that. Driving home it was cloudy and wonderful and now I'm just not feeling the sunshine. Not that it matters cause I'm indoors and planning on staying indoors for the rest of the night and all day tomorrow too. Unless I go for my typical late night drive later...

I think I might try to take a nap since I'm planning on staying up late tonight and I'd honestly like to have some wine and escape for a little while. I also need to do some laundry...

Annnnd need to do my nails too. I took off the gel, actually anxiously pulled it off instead of soaking them like I've been doing and my nails are so thin and damaged. So I'm going back to my nail strips and I'm excited cause I found the red and black ombre that I did a few weeks ago and that's probably my favorite set of theirs.

All the boys are snoozing so yeaa definitely time to join them!

[apthotiosis]

u want thoughts??? elotes thoughts???? dont mind if i dooooo

i mean my vision of him was influenced by yours to some degree because holy shit, but he's a walking contradiction!! he's so grounded and not interested in complexity at all (apart from pvp strats), yet he's a star person!!! ethereal being!! yet so lowly physical, growing out of soil and yummy nutrients yesyes

he loves like he fights, laughing, going around it, hyping everyone up but himself. his body hurts most days but its okay, he's used to it. diabetes do be a bitch. he'd rather follow than lead because he does not like responsability, but once he's responsible for something he'll hate himself over the smallest mistake, even those that arent his fault.

he thrives under bright sunlight and dim silver starlight, because plant!!! and starchild!! he hears when the Universe sings! he hears black holes drumming onto spacetime and supernovas bursting into laughter! and sometimes he just lays in a patch of sunlight and soaks it up like a well-loved cat, even for a brief moment bc he's bad at staying still.

he's bad at hating too. he can't quite manage it. it takes a lot for him to feel genuine dislike for someone instead of just indifference or pity. he was not molded with the capacity to hate anyone but himself.

i could go on man

anon i wrote u an essay and tumblr deleted it . i hope this suffices but pls know ive been chewin on this for days and my goodnes , i love what u have to say abt him , Especially about him and his ability to hold hatred its so *cradles the words* its So *beholds the cucumber* Its So *turns into bubbles*

that second last bit abt the sun also hit me . he was supposed to do this ;-; this is a glimpse of what life should have been like , and instead it is a gift of a moment , and then lbr he feels bad about needing a break . 'whats wrong with u ? everythings fine , get up and go do something , why arent u doing anything ?' stop ittttt ;---;

yes ;0; grgrhjgf he was supposed to be a star , he was made out of love and life and milk and dirt and light , he was supposed to carry the torch of his entity , and instead he spent his entire life defying the design he was given ; n ; just bashing himself up because he learnt what a strong hero was and went well , thats gotta be me ! n then he comes fresh off his three+ year long bender into the island and is just . Who the fuck Is he . and What is his life . of course hes gonna be a mess the second u scratch the surface and learn what contradictions are there . his upbringing and core values that had to take a backseat so he could survive being a hunter ;-;

aaaaaah anon thankyou ;3; u made such a beautiful bunch of etoiles thoughts , what goods

[thechloris]

What I’m Cooking Last Week in August

This is a time of year I love to cook! So many local and delicious fruits and veggies that i’m spoiled for choice. Anyway so far this week…

Grilled Shrimp Street Tacos with Escabeche Slaw and Pico de Gallo served with Elote Salad

Grain Bowl with Farro, Spinach, Apples, Goat Cheese, and Green Beans tossed with Poppyseed Dressing and a sprinkling of Popped Quinoa

A riff on Niçoise salad featuring Jarred Tuna in oil, Grilled Sliced Potatoes, Grilled Fairytale Eggplants, Tomatoes, Olives, and Basil.

Tonight we’re having dinner out (so I can rest!) and then tomorrow I’m going to try grilling carrots. Cut them up, toss them in my grilling basket, and see how it goes.

Notes:

You must grill potatoes. Go try it tonight! Slice yellow potatoes about 1 cm thick, toss with some oil and salt, and lay them flat on the grill. Cover, high heat, turn 8-10 min in. Cook about 20 total. (i use my grilling basket so I don’t have to worry about them falling thru)

Also, fairytale eggplants are the best ever! They are incredibly good

[white-wolf-actually]

elote and rusty say hi :) elote is trying to eat my backpack currently idk what happened i think he smells his food AND ALSO ALSO ALSO IM FINALLY GOING BACK HOME AFTER BEING GONE FOR LIKE A GAZILLION YEARS i miss my room 😞😞😞 i almost got attacked a bunch because i was in this old abandoned hospital and i forgot security exists but anyway LORE DROP😨😨😨😨😨

anywag bye elote might attack me if i dont feed him rn 😭😭

rusty😨😨

I didn't understand most of that but I'm happy that you're happy.

Give them love for me!

[20kmemesunderthesea]

🦑 Nemo's Fury 2: Octo War 🦑

There's a sequel, my lovelies!

When I saw "Nemo's Fury 2: Octo War" would involve a race of advanced, intelligent cephalopods called "Octopoids," my thought was, "My, that's...creative."

Perhaps a bit corny. Perhaps a bit cheesy. That being said, you know what else is corny and cheesy? Elote. Having grown up on a steady diet of Doctor Who and TOS Star Trek, I'm not one to judge. So just as at every local fair I make a beeline for the nearest elote stall, I enthusiastically made a beeline for Amazon to download "Nemo's Fury 2" onto my Kindle, metaphorical bottle of Tajin in hand.

Premise:

While "Nemo's Fury 2" takes place after the events of the first book, it's formatted as a standalone adventure so that the player doesn't need to have played the first book to follow along and enjoy it.

After having left the Nautilus, you (Irish-American journalist T.K. O'Connor), are picked up by another submarine, this one belonging to the navy of the Indian kingdom of Maharashtra. Maharashtra possesses submarines even more advanced than "The Nautilus," throwing onto question Captain Nemo's personal innovation. (Has he taken more credit for naval technology than is actually due him?!)

Because of your experience onboard the Nautilus, you're drafted into Maharashtra Navy and are sent to salvage a derelict submarine to get it operational once more. Along the way, you reconnect with some familiar characters, pilot a submarine and uncover a genocidal conspiracy which you set out to stop before it's too late!

As for the “Octopoids,” I didn’t think they were terribly corny. (Let me reiterate that "Alfa 177 canine" was seared into my memory at a young age.) In fact, the Octopoids are rather mysterious and I’m left wanting to know more about them. Space aliens are overrated anyway: it’s about time we had some ocean aliens. I, for one, am here for sentient sea life á la “Star Trek: The Voyage Home.”

Gameplay:

Like the first book, the gameplay of "Nemo's Fury 2" is a sort of hybrid between a "choose your own adventure" book and a DnD-type solo rpg. All that’s needed to play is pencil, paper and two six-sided dice.

There are added stats and rules in this book relating to navigating the submarine, repairing it, piloting it, etc, as well as additional hazards such as radiation poisoning and encountering a colorful menagerie of sea monsters. These new rules and game mechanics add more complexity to the gameplay, making it interesting and fun.

Other notes:

-> I personally preferred the storyline of the first book to the second; It felt a bit more composite. On the other hand, I enjoyed the gameplay of "Nemo’s Fury 2" and thought it was cleverly set up and more complex than the first. You might just have to purchase both to see if you prefer one over the other.

-> In the “Nemo’s Fury” game app, more of Captain Nemo’s backstory was explained than in the book version. Only having played the book version, I was left a little confused by how different he was from the the severely depressed middle-aged widower we've come to know and love.

A little more insight into Nemo's past was revealed in “Nemo’s Fury 2,” divulging a story very different from cannon. Avoiding spoilers, this Captain Nemo is in his late 20’s, never married and has serious mommy issues as well as deeply concerning personality disorders which, incidentally, was also the backstory of most of my college classmates.

I don’t necessarily mind a writer changing up a character, but I wish I’d understood right away in the first book that this was a different Captain Nemo than the one I’d expected. The exposition in "Nemo’s Fury 2" actually explained a lot about the first book retrospectively.

This different depiction of Captain Nemo, while angstier, is still objectively interesting and makes for an intriguing antagonistic character on the game's storyline.

In conclusion, "Nemo's Fury 2: Octo War" was an enjoyable sequel and left me eagerly awaiting part three!