#been awhile since I've done a water set

[flammabel]

💧Wet Cal Kestis💧

👀🔥😍

[lovelykil]

sunny─

ᯓ izuku midoriya

note; it's HOT

(black reader implied)

the sun has been pretty brutal since summer was approaching, everything is hot. Walking is hot, talking is hot, eating is hot, everything is so fucking hot.

yet here you are with Izuku OUTSIDE in this hot ass weather for practice. You're wearing a noodle strap black shirt with some shorts and running shoes, he's practically wearing the same aswell.

black looked real good on him you weren't gonna lie, you caught him in your gaze but you were too hot to say it to him so you just gawked at him from a distance.

"hey I love you and all but not this much, I wanna go inside izu." You yelled out to him from under a tree that provided shade for you. You picked up a cold water bottle and held it to your sticky dark skin.

you could've sworn you just saw heaven.

Izuku shakes his hand in the air after practicing his new ability in this secluded area away from the school. He turns towards you, he's sweating like crazy but he still seems to have a determined look on his face.

"You could've gone inside already, I'm gonna be out here for awhile." You set the cool water bottle down and look at him, standing still. Your cheek is wet and cool almost feels like it's burning, weird.

"yeah well you know I'm stubborn, now come here you need to cool down." You motion your finger indicating for him to come your way. He shakes his head, refusing your orders.

"I appreciate it but no thank you, I'm good. I can't stop now I think I've gotten a hang with this blackwhip abili—"

"Izuku Midoriya come here I'm not asking you boy." With a sharp and firm tone, you hissed, your eyes pierced into his soul as you held your own bottle of water. Izu squirmed nervously, he looked a bit spooked his feet moved on their own now as he swiftly approached you.

"I mean of course I want a break! Breaks are awesome ahaha!" You watch him with an unfazed look clicking your tongue and shaking your head. But you smile nonetheless once he gets closer.

from up close, you could see the beads of sweat drip down the sides of his white skin, a drip of sweat you saw glistened down his structured lovely neck, your dark cheeks flushed.

"damn, why'd we wear black shirts if it so hot out.." You cleared your throat, bending down to retrieve another water bottle. Izuku pinched his shirt and held it away from his skin to let air in,

"this was my only clean shirt, for practice at least." He blushes shyly, he hadn't done his laundry yet. Your lips curl, grinning at him.

"you're so stupid, c'mere now." You shake the water of bottle in your grasp. He obeys like a puppy and steps a little closer.

you take your bottle of water and his and press it against his hot skin, you rub the cold bottle on his cheek and the other near his neck.

his eyes flicker shut and he moans in delight, you chuckle at him. He's so cute.

"you glad I didn't leave?" You raise your brow. He opens his eyes slowly, still in a daze from being in Iceland heaven.

"I didn't want you to leave anyway.." He mumbled. A shy smile paints your face, you step closer to him. He's a bit taller than you so you look up.

"kiss now." now he's the one blushing.

"a kiss??" He suddenly snaps out of his icy daydream and looks at you, wide eye. You nod.

you take the bottle that rested on his neck and hold it to his other cheek, his eyes roll back from the feeling.

"o-ohmm..."

"pleaseee." you plea. His eyes flutter back open again and looks at you. Your wide begging eyes and pouting lips make him blush. All because you want to kiss him.

he leans his head down a bit and shyly grins.

"okay."

you can't hold back your excited smile connecting your lips with his, the cute giddy expression is so infectious that it infects him like a virus. He struggles to kiss back normally due to his lips curling every second into the cold kiss. Your lips playfully dance with his, trying to remain calm but you giggle with him nonetheless, moving your faces back and forth he's too cute you just can't seem to kiss him so seriously neither can he.

after the childish kiss, you peck his wet freckled cheek, removing the water bottle away. His smile is so giddy now he can't contain his blush.

you look at him once more and sigh.

"izu you're so cute baby," He simply shys away, fidgeting with his fingers.

"i-"

"now can we PLEASE get back inside."

"o-oh right! Sure yeah, I think I'm done for the day anyway.."

[dreamscapesofimagination]

A/N: I'm waiting on a timer for dinner so decided to write a quick thing for Alan, my other bby.

TW: Fluff? Confessions. Leo being a shit. Alan in a tanktop all sweaty which may be a whole warning itself lol.

Summary: You stop by to get Alan to look over some forms, and Leo decides enough is enough.

-----------

You silently cursed your uniform.

The sun glared down today, and it had taken approximately three steps outside for you to wish for some lighter clothing.

The only relief from the heat was the refreshing breeze that rustled the trees, bringing with it the faint smell of engine oil as your steps led you toward Vagastrom.

Even the cats seemed irritated by the heat, some lazily sprawled in the grass to soak up the suns rays without overheating.

Of course today was the day that something had been overlooked on the most recent report for Vagastrom, so not only did you have to trek to the staffroom to collect the report from an even more disgruntled than usual Professor Dante, you also had to then trek toward Vagastrom.

The only benefit was the fact that you needed Alan to look over the form personally. You had long since accepted your attraction to the stoic captain, and between Sho and Leo's relentless comments you had gleaned that he may feel something for you as well. Unfortunately, when it came to any sort of relationship, Alan was like a frightened bird, and so you refused to approach him yourself for fear of making him uncomfortable.

Alan had let you know he would be around back, working on one of the cars.

You made your way along the dusty ground, using the folder in your hand to fan yourself.

"Hey Alan, I have those-"

The sight of him stopped you in your tracks.

He was leaned over the open hood of the car, and you couldn't help the flush that rushed to your cheeks at the sight of his back, sweat causing the grey tank top to cling to his muscles.

He quickly turned and lord have mercy.

He was definitely trying to kill you.

His skin glistened, evidence he had been working in the heat for awhile, and a black smudge accented his cheek bone.

"You have the report?" He asked, using an old rag to wipe the grease from his hands.

"Y-yeah, Professor Dante said you had to revise the Darkwick Property Damage clause." You stammered out the words, quickly focusing on the car.

"Is that-?"

"The car that the absolute embarassment if a first year wrecked on the mission? Yeah. Luckily the broker of that anomaly wasn't able to do anything extreme but its still a headache to repair." Alan sighed, reaching into the cooler that was beside the car and pulling out two water bottles.

He handed you one as he took the folder, frowning as he examined the report within.

You perched on an old tire that lay by Alan's tools, enjoying the coldness of the waterbottle and desperately trying to avoid looking at Alan.

It was hard to not look as he looked at the report, leaning against the car.

His skin had gained a slight tan, and you found yourself wishing (not for the first time) that things could be very different between you two.

"I'll fix this report as soon as I'm done with the car, do you want to wait here until I'm done?" Alan looked at you, expression softeningat the sight of you pressing the waterbottle against your heated forehead.

You smiled at him, "yeah, I'll wait. I really don't feel like walking back across campus and then needing to come back here only to go back to the main building and then back to my dorm."

Alan placed the folder through the open window onto the seat of the car.

"Well, you're welcome to wait inside. I know its hot. It shouldn't take me much longer- one of the bolts I need to get off is stuck but I've almost gotten it," he leaned back over the car as he spoke.

You pulled off your blazer, setting it under your head as you laid back on the tire. When you weren't moving the sun actually felt nice, and you were admittedly loathe to leave Alan. It wasn't often you got to be with just him.Since it was unlikely you and he would ever be together, you soaked up as much one on one as you could.

Before you knew it, you were dozing in the warm sun.

"What're you guys up to?"

A voice that you knew all to well jostled you awake, and you sat up.

You watched Alan stifle a groan, supressing a smile yourself at your shared disdain for Leo.

"What do you want?" Alan asked, refusing to look at Leo, focused instead on the car.

Leo shrugged, "Just figuring out why you have the honor student laying on a tire." The words "honor student" were said with a sneer.

"I'm just waiting for him to correct a report so I can take it to Professor Dante." you spoke, eyes narrowed at Leo.

"Ah, I see. And you're waiting in the blazing sun because of what?" you felt a tingle in your spine at the knowing look in his eye.

"I mean, I can only think of one reason why you'd be out here, alone, in the blistering heat with our less than chatty captain."

"Leo." Alan's voice was stern as he growled the warning.

Ignoring him, Leo continued, "now, I've definitely noticed you following the buzzkill around like a lost puppy, and man is it pathetic to watch."

"Leo!" Alan snapped, turning to glare at the silver haired man.

Leo just shrugged, "c'mon, you're equally pathetic, Cap. It'd be a lot less gross for everyone else if you both would just get together already."

Your cheeks burned at his words, and a side glance to Alan showed his ears to be red.

"You and I are training tomorrow. I want to see if your hand to hand has gotten any better." Alan seethed, and from his tone you figured that Leo was still no match for the captain.

Rolling his eyes, Leo turned, "Yeah, whatever Cap."

You pointedly looked at your feet, avoiding looking at the man beside you.

You knew Alan harbored some sort of feelings for you, and you figured he probably knew about yours. However, knowing and having them thrust in your face were two separate matters entirely.

"Sorry 'bout him." Alan's voice pulled your attention back to him.

You shook your head, "you don't have to apologize."

You wondered if you made Alan uncomfortable- afterall, you knew he had reservations when it came to hurting others (at least, when it came to you). Maybe your clear desire to be around him was too much.

"Alan," he looked at you, "I'm sorry if I make you uncomfortable. I can't really help how I feel but if me being around so much is causing issues I'll just stay away unless otherwise is necessary."

He frowned, tilting his head.

"That's- You are not the issue." he sighed, "I am."

He came over, sitting beside you on the tire.

"I have feelings for you, I just don't want to hurt you. I'd never forgice myself. Maybe its selfish but I'd rather have you close by never close enough than not see you."

You carefully reached out, taking his hand in yours. You could feel his body stiffen at your touch.

"Alan, you know you won't hurt me, right? I trust you. And if it takes awhile for you to trust yourself then thsts okay, and I won't push anything again. But, I like you a lot, and I'm here whenever you're ready." You watched his gaze fall to your hands and he squeezed gently before meeting your eyes.

You noticed the determination in his dark eyes.

"I want to try this out. For once, Kurosagi is right. Its honestly more pathetic for me to keep being petrified."

You felt your heart hammer in your chest as all your focus fell to Alan.

He smiled, "I'd like to take you out on a date."

The grin that spread across your face was so wide that it hurt, but the joy inside you wouldn't allow it to lessen.

"I'd love to go on a date with you, Alan."

[hayleylatour]

Finding Peace 🕊️

Content warning-none yet, some smut soon. Future talks of pregnancy and options. (Time frame is 2021 into 2022) this is also my first fan fiction since Wattpad 2014!

Summary- Mia is a 24 year old new bookstore owner who’s best friend is dating the drummer of up and coming metal band Bad Omens Nick Foilo. Jess is known for trying to set Mia up on blind dates. What happens when Mia meets Noah Sebastian

Pairings- babydaddy!Noah Sebastian x OC (Mia)

Chapter One- Mia's pov

"Mia babes you gotta come to this party, its Halloween, plus is kinda a party for Nick's friends birthday" Jess begged me. looking at my phone screen to see her pleading pout and batting eyes. rolling my eyes I simply nod in agreement, knowing if I don't at least make an appearance I will never hear the end of it.

"I'll come but I really don't want you trying to set me up with one of Nick's friends. I'm happy being single okay Jess" I say putting the last of the coffee mugs in the cabinet. "I'm just wanting to focus on getting the hell out of the shit hole apartment and getting this damn shop done and ready for opening”

"Okay okay I promise! No trying to set you up, but can I just say these guys are HOT, babes its been forever since you've gotten laid, have a few drinks and see where the night takes you, I'm not saying you have to date or marry one of them but who knows you might really hit it off with someone" Jess continues to ramble but I lose focus on her words when I start thinking about the last time I got laid. damn its be awhile the last time was probably 6 months ago... shit she's right I need to get laid, like yesterday.

"fine. is this a costume party or can I wear normal clothes" I sigh while picking up my phone and walking to the couch to sit down.

After awhile of chatting with Jess, we hung up our daily hour long face time. deciding to get up and start getting ready for jess party. Pulling the shower curtain open I start the water, warming it while I do some quick skin care. I cant help but think about what jess said, its been so long since I've gotten laid.

"That's it, if one of these guys is as attractive as she says, you're going to fuck him, you hear don’t chicken out. have a drink, relax and blow off some steam" I blurt out looking at my reflection, pep talks never work but dammit if I was determined to make myself believe it.

after my shower I blow dry my hair and decide on a low bun before starting my makeup, keeping everything simple and clean, with a light brown dusting over my lids and a shimmery highlight in my inner corner, finishing it off with a quick winged liner. I make my way into the bedroom to throw on a pair of skinny jeans and my favorite bring me the horizon hoodie topping the look off with black vans and making my way downstairs to my car and off to Jess and Nick's house.

there's 4 cars in the driveway when I pull in, Jess and folios included. throwing my car in park I do a once over in my review mirror. as headlights shine illuminating my car, looking over I see a tall man step out and make his way up the drive. stopping he looks at me through the windshield. I've seen him in pictures before. Noah- Folios friend and band mate. dressed in tight black jeans and a while shirt topped off with a leather jacket, Noah makes his way inside the house. now or never Mia. make your move.

"Hey Noah, wait up!" I yell exiting my car and jogging up the drive. He quickly turns on his heel and smiles down at me as I reach him, Standing at least a foot taller than me. Fuck he’s taller in person. “Lead the way” He says extending his arm towards the door.

“MIA! You made it” Jess squeals detaching herself from folios side, everyone seems to stop talking and turn their attention to the screaming. “Ah I see you met Noah, happy birthday by the way.” Jess winks at me

“Hey Jess, can I talk to you for a minute” i mutter pulling her into a hug. She nods and leads us to her bedroom. Once away from the crowd i start to explain my plan to her. I’ll have a drink and hang out and be open to the idea of hooking up with someone, failing to mention Noah’s name and how when he looks at me my heart beats a little faster. Jess tells me that if it happens it happens but she thinks i need to blow off some steam and ‘what better way to do it than an orgasm?’

When we emerged from the second floor the guys are standing in the kitchen around a box of pizza. Noah has his back to me but I can see his shoulder length hair is tucked between his ears. Their laughter fills to house which makes relaxing into the evening a little easier.

“So Mia, what do you do for work exactly? Jess was telling us you worked at a bookstore.” Jolly asks leaning forward to set his bottle on the table.

“Yeah kinda, I own the shop down on 17th, ‘Ellie’s’ my grandma left it to me in her will, I’ve been renovating it since lockdown started. But now since everything is opening back up. I’m hoping to have a reopening around mid November. Fingers crossed, I’m still working on getting the last of the furniture out of storage.” I explain sitting up a little straighter.

“That’s so cool we’ll have to come see it sometime” Ruffilo says everyone chiming in with an agreement. The party goes on just as this. Sitting on the sectional till I notice it’s getting closer to midnight, I should probably head home and get some much needed sleep. Jolly and Ruffilo have already said their goodbyes, and Jess has gone to bed, leaving Noah, Folio and myself.

“Hey thank you so much for tonight, i think im gonna head out though.” I say standing from my seat. Nick and Noah stand as well.

“Yeah I need to head out to, I’ll walk with you. Tell Jess I said thank you and I’ll message you tomorrow” Noah says pulling him into a hug. “Mia you ready?”

“Uh yeah. I’m ready” I rush. Making our way down the driveway Noah suddenly stops, turning to look at him he smiles and reaches for my wrist.

“Ya know, Jess told me that you were wanting to hook up with someone tonight, and it is technically still my birthday if you want to im more than interested” he breathes pushing my back against the driver’s side door of my car.

“Your place or mine?” I whisper.

[candydust]

This one's for you @1dwaekki <3

Chad and Tristan - The story continues

Part 1.

Christmas and the New Years swept by in the blink of an eye and before they knew it, it was the beginning of February.

Tristan's parents were away on holiday and since his brother Wade was out of town, it became Tristan's responsibility to take care of the house during everyone's abscence. Naturally, he'd avoided the task like the plague and it wasn't until the end of the week when he finally set the key into the house.

'So what are our assignments?' Chad asked as they stepped inside and removed the outerwear. Clasping his hands together he appeared ready to take on anything.

'Just water the plants. Fix the laundry. Sweep and clean off areas. No biggie.'

'Okay.' The blue eyes wandered over the room with a curious notion as a wistful expression found the facial elements. 'I've never been here before, you know, when it's just and you and me. It's a beautiful house.' He uttered very softly.

'It's alright, I guess.' Tristan shrugged. 'So I'll start vacuuming.' He was eager to get it done as fast as needed so they could leave.

'Sure... uhm, I can... or uh, are there perhaps some aprons somewhere that I could borrow?'

'Fuck I don't know. Do you really need one?' It was with an agitated motion Tristan let a hand comb through his hair. 'If you get any dirt on yourself I promise I'll wash the clothes tonight.... or later this week.'

'Okay it's a deal.'

Tristan was busy vacuuming when, all of a sudden, several knocks hit the front door.

'Fuck, what now..!'

Shutting off the loud machine, Tristan stretched out his back. He felt frustrated that everything was taking longer than he'd intended.

'It's an eldery woman outside.' Tucking some of strands of hair behind his ear, Chad looked out the window. 'She's looking right at you. Wait... I think it's your grandmother, I think she sees you. She's waving.' He smiled waving back at her.

Tristan went to open the door and welcome her inside.

'Tristan, your father told me you were only here for awhile so I just had to come over and say hello.' She said as she invited herself inside.

'It's been too long. It's great to see you grandma.' They hugged and the familiar scent of old fabric mixed with cigarettes and soap swept up Tristan's nostrils. '...and you remember Chad?' He placed an affectionate hand at the lower part of Chad's back.

'Chad....' She smiled with that gentle spark in her eyes that only old people seemed to possess. Taking Chad's extended hand between her both. 'It is so nice to see you again.'

A rosy hue embellished Chad's cheekbones.

'You too.... uhm, Mrs Miller.' He corrected himself.

'You're so handsome as always. Very fancy...' She nodded with a sense of approval as she walked further into the house. '...and Cathy will do just fine. Are you eating well, Tristan? And do you know for how long they'll be gone on this unplanned excursion? You know how your father is. You can never get a straight answer out of him.'

'I ain't got a clue.'

'That's what I thought.' She sat down in one of the armchairs. 'Chad, I hope you're talented in the kitchen cause Tristan can't boil an egg without burning it.'

'Hey..!' Tristan objected.

That sent Chad into a giggle, mostly because the words were true. 'I tend to think I'm alright.' He responded with a soft laughter.

'Good. Now Tristan, your father said you two were here to do some chores. So go on and do whatever it was you were doing and don't mind me.' She turned on the TV.

'Cathy's really sweet.' Chad whispered and Tristan lovingly placed a sweet kiss at his forehead. 'She sure is.'

They began to fold the laundry down in the basement. There were about two loads from the drier that needed tending to. Straightening out the sheets stirred up a lot of dust from the floor and Chad reacted by coughing into his fist.

'I know it's sort of dusty down here...' Tristan kind of apologized, seeing Chad with his eyes watering and the alluring flare that embraced the rounded nostrils.

'It's alright...' He blinked when his eyes narrowed. The clenched fist that rested below the chin unfolded, cupping itself over the mouth and he stepped back slowly as his chest began to heave up and down. '...pardonhh me.' He excused himself airly then drew in a sharp breath.

'Eh'gnzx!!'Gnsch!!!-Tzsch!!-hhGNhhx!! ...ha'hhGNhsch!!!'

'Oh... uh bless you?'

'...uh'Eitschgnx!! ...yehG'nnhsxhhh!!!'schoo... goodness... thank you.'

Tristan watched as Chad brushed away some tears that'd left his eyes from the strong impact, so he went over and helped him by using the ends of his sweater at the smoothness of his skin. 'Are you feeling okay?' He asked, even though the constant flare at Chad's nostrils clearly showed the opposite.

'K-kind of.. ugh I ..hhh, hhhh... ugh I'm going to sneeze agai-hhhh' He crashed into the crook of his arm. '... eh'tschx!!'tsch'xx!!!'-gnxd'sch!!'-Gnnxhh!!!-ah'Gnxsch!!!'schu... oh bless mehh ...uh, hhhh, uh-Tdschh!-Idzschu!!-KNXh!!!'tschooo... oh.'

The wet stifles useless to the fierce and stubborn tickle residing inside his nose, causing him to rapture into another harsh stifling fit.

When he was fairly done, Tristan affectionately tucked the loose hair back in order at Chad's head. Tenderly brushing his lips against his cheek.

'I think we should head back upstairs.' He said between the delicate kisses.

'Aren't... ugh, aren't they expecting it to be done..?' He wondered while a finger rubbed continuously at the nose.

'Who the fuck cares. Come on. You can't stay here with that sensitive nose of yours.'

'Tsch!!! ...excuse'huhhh... Gnitxsch!!!' He aimed his head and the sneeze misted uncovered downwards. '...goodness sorry.'

'Bless you. No, you can't torture yourself.'

Taking Chad by the arm, the wet aftermath from the recent sneezes met at Tristan's fingertips, and he tried not to let that wonderful notion affect him as he led them up the stairs.

'Uh'knxguh!!' ...hhh, hhhh... eh'gnnnhschx!!!'schoo... excuse me.'

'Baby you're going to continue sneezing like this if you don't allow yourself to sneeze the dust out properly.'

'But we're not... hh, hhhhh... ah'GMmHx!!'uh... ... alone.'

'Bless you, it's just grandma though and she's alright.'

'...I still care.'

They reached the end of the stairs.

'Tristan, be a doll and join me in here?!'

They figured Cathy must have heard them coming as the high voice bounced between the walls.

''Go and see what she wants,' Chad paused to sniffle wetly, '...excuse me. And I'll finish watering the plants.'

About to leave for the other room, he was caught with a firm grasp around his wrist and pulled back into Tristan's who wrapped his arms around him and locked him into his chest with Chad's nose against his neck.

Red billowy colours heated Chad's face and he looked down, exposing the dark lashes.

'You're so fucking gorgeous you know that?' Tristan's voice cooed like silk.

'...ohh?' He shyly shielded the burning hue with an open palm over the lower part of his face, sweeping over his cheeks.

'There's no one like you... you're amazing.'

With Tristan tilting down his head, Chad was adorned with gentle kisses, tracing the arch of his upper lip, to the tip of his nose and then down at his chin.

The softness danced itself into Chad's heart, stimulating of all his senses, leaving him in a heavenly and seductive tremble when Tristan all of a sudden dropped all contact and left him standing in the middle room, perplexed and unsure of what to do next.

'I'm here.' Tristan put his hands into his jeans pockets seeing Cathy in the armchair. He glanced at the TV screen.

'Have a seat dear.'

Tristan slouched down. 'What kind of shit are you watching?'

'You're sounding just like your father.' She patronized which diminished Tristan's joyful mood.

'I don't.'

'So much swearing in this household.' She muttered when a tender emotion caught her eyes. 'Tristan, dear. Listen. I know Johnny's tactics can be quite rough on you. But despite his age he's still my son and I know he does the best he can.'

'Yea..?' Tristan arched one brow. He was very aware that Cathy meant well and with good intentions, but despite all that he didn't believe one word what she was saying.

'He is your father after all...'

'Then he should behave like-'

'...tsch!-ksch!-tscho! .... uh'gghsch!! ... ha'gnhtsch!!!oh... ...uh'WRESCHgnxch!!!!'

'Oh dear what's going on out there?' She turned in the direction of the sudden sound.

Although glad for any kind of interruption, Tristan felt bothered, especially considering the company.

'Why is he sneezing so much? Do you know?' Cathy faced Tristan with an odd look.

'Uh...'

Tristan blanked, his mind going numb. Talking about Chad's allergies with his grandma was like having a dialogue about their sex life and now he almost cringed, hearing Chad going off again.

'Dearest...!' She shouted in the same high voice and Chad showed up after a few moments. 'Oh there you are. What is making you sneeze so much,' she wondered, pointing in Tristan's direction, 'you got your boyfriend here all worried about you.'

'...he is? I mean, uhm...' Chad blushed while the slender fingers touched at the nose.

'So what is it dear?'

'Does it really matter...' Tristan groaned, desperate to put an end to the awkward subject.

'What is what?' Chad's eyes squinted unfocused. 'Oh. It's just... uhm, I'm uh... a little allergic to dust, so uhm... I'm not saying that the house is unclean or anything, I'm just uh... overly sensitive.'

The nostrils at Chad's vulnerable nose were now flaring tremendously and he tried to rub it out by dipping his nose into the crook of his arm.

'...well.' She slowly stood from the chair. 'I think it's time for me to let you finishing up in peace or you'll be here all night.'

As she started to walk towards the hallway, Chad's facial expression exposed a look of helplessness, struggling to obtain the itch in his nose from developing.

Tristan fought the urge to indulge himself in the matter too but fate wanted otherwise as Chad kept sniffling. Over and over again. It was constant and intrusive. To the point that it was driving Tristan completely insane and evoking involuntary arousal.

'You're still sneezing..?' He wondered under his breath, before lending a helpful hand to Cathy who struggled with the door.

'I'm sorry.'

'I thought I advised you to let them out..?'

Chad lost the ability to respond, utterly compelled by the sharp tickle penetrating within his nose and he began to hitch uncontrollably while keeping a bent finger pressed beneath the expanding nostrils.

'...hh, hhh... hhhhh! ... heh'ugh... oh... uh...'

He'd managed to hold back the sneezes entirely and he appeared overwhelmed from the effort. The demeanor completely unexpected and Tristan felt astounded by the incredible scene. He'd never witnessed Chad succeeding in holding back a sneeze attack before.

'Bye now sweetheart.'

He was hugged from behind, then Cathy gestured for Chad to approach. 'I'm so glad you got patience with my boy here.' She hinted at Tristan. 'You seem like a very nice and decent young man and that is just what Tristan needs. Some good manners. Building a good foundation.'

'That's very kind of you...' Chad sniffled discreetly as she reached over for a hug.

'I'm sorry about the, uhm you know, dust allergy.' He apologized shyly as they parted.

'Oh nonsense, I don't care about that. Now you take good care of this one Tristan.' She gave Tristan a warning finger, then chuckled. 'Bye, you two.'

As soon as the door closed, the itchy sensation that Chad had fixated under control dissolved itself and craved an instant form of release.

'...oh my goodness.' His strained voice alarmed out of nowhere and when Tristan looked over, Chad was already in the throes of another build up, this time giving into the tickle fully. He'd stopped rubbing at the nose and instead, his head titled back, and Tristan couldn't contain himself but gaze at the perfect view of the pink and tensed nostrils.

'....Gnh'xtsch!!' He snapped forward and with an agonizing expression, then hid his face into both hands. '...oh, ...hhhhhh ...ehHGnx!!-hh'dzSch!!-hhhtasch!!-dh'knsch!!sch'ddsx!!-hhhhhh... yEisch'gnxxtsch!!!' ...oh my heavens.'

'Aw baby bless you...' Tristan let his fingers move in a circling motion around Chad's waist. '...but what did I tell you about stifling the sneezes..?' He advised just as tenderly.

'Thank you... but I'm... hhh, hhh... goodness, I'm tryinghhhh'gnsxch!! ...hhh, hhh... Eh'Eitscheew!! Uh'Ascheo!-hhhEisch'gnx!-uh'WReSCHhschew!! ...oh bless me.'

'See.. doesn't that feel better?'

One kiss at Chad's ear was all that Tristan had time for, until Chad strongly lurched forward again.

'..uh'eEsch!!-Eiischew!!-Awescho!!! ...hh, hhhh... ..uh'WEASCHschu!! ...WRASCHSCHEW!!! ...oh... ugh...'

Tears were streaming down from his eyes and the liquid sound he constantly drew in from the nose unbelievably wet. 'I'm so sorry....' The delicate words were muffled behind the hands.

'It's okay baby.' Tristan said with a soothing comfort, '...can I get you anything, some paper?'

'...yes thank you.'

Taking a much needed break, they were seated at the kitchen table.

With graceful strokes, Chad used the papers over the nose. He'd blown it once since the fit and even though he still sniffled, he refused to blow it again.

'...sorry.' He said again a little timidly. 'I never intend to sneeze so messily.'

'Babe I love all your sneezes. I must have told you a millions of times by now.'

'...yea, but... yea... okay.'

Chad used the crumbled ball of paper below the nostrils, carefully rubbing it around them.

Grabbing Chad's hand from across the table, Tristan gazed into his eyes. The deep blue seas he often found himself drowning in.

'How are you feeling, better?'

'Much better, thank you.'

'That was some attack, eh..?' Tristan couldn't help but smile.

'So embarrassing.' Chad sniffled, finding it hard to keep a steady eye contact with the intensity of energy floating between them. 'I just wish my nose wasn't so...' The words failed him and he pondered thoughtfully.

'...adoringly cute?' Tristan smirked.

'Noooo...' The head shook faintly from side to side. '...that's not what I was going to say. '

They were quiet for a moment.

'Are you hungry?' Tristan then asked, caressing the soft skin on the palm of Chad's hand with the thumb.

'A little.'

'How about some pizza..?'

'Yea that sounds nice.'

'Awesome.' Tristan stood but held onto Chad's fingers. 'Let's get out of here.'

[galaxywrites]

Freed Revenants AU incorrect quotes since it's been awhile!

───

Kitana: I truly believe that water can solve all your problems.

Kabal: Weight loss? Drink water.

Stryker: Clear skin? Drink water.

Smoke: Want to get rid of someone? Drown them.

-

Kitana: I don't dab. I stab.

-

Liu Kang: This is a very powerful artifact. You’d be messing with some forces we don’t fully understand.

Smoke: That sounds like a dare to me.

Liu Kang: Oh my god.

-

Smoke: All the sudden I got a random burst of energy, and I think it's my body's last hurrah before it completely shuts down.

-

Smoke: Stryker, why are you crying?

Stryker: This book is so sad!!

Smoke, picking it up: But this is my diary-

-

*Smoke falls through the ceiling, landing near Jade*

Smoke: Hey, Jade!

Jade: Hey, Tomáš

Jade: …that hurt.

-

Nightwolf: Kabal keeps forgetting which Netherfi network he's supposed to use.

Nightwolf: So I renamed ours to "Kabal, use this one" to help him out a little.

-

Smoke: Why shouldn't you put a toaster in a bathtub full of water?

Jade: Because your toast would get soggy!

-

Liu Kang: Kabal and Stryker introduced Tomáš to country music. Or 'cuntry' as they keep calling it.

Liu Kang: Please send help

-

Kabal and Nightwolf: *accidentally set the kitchen on fire*

Kabal: We need an adult!

Nightwolf: Kabal, we are adults!

Kabal: We need an adultier adult! Get Jade!

-

Stryker: I’ve done a lot of dumb stuff.

Liu Kang: I witnessed the dumb stuff.

Smoke: I recorded the dumb stuff.

Kabal: I joined you in the dumb stuff.

Nightwolf: I TRIED TO STOP YOU FROM DOING THE DUMB STUFF!

-

Kitana: What are the hardest things to say?

Liu Kang: I was wrong.

Nightwolf: I need help.

Smoke: Worcestershire sauce.

-

Liu Kang: Why are you two always out during rainstorms?

Nightwolf: It’s so peaceful and refreshing. I love the smell of rain.

Smoke: Stryker bet me I couldn’t get struck by lighting, but he's WRONG.

-

Smoke: Jade said its my turn with the brain cell.

Kung Lao: Square up.

-

Nightwolf: Does immaturely insulting me make you feel better about your sad single life?

Jade: It actually does!

-

Liu Kang: Seriously, Smoke, how many people would you have killed if we’d asked you to?

Smoke: That’s not important

Liu Kang: I DISAGREE.

-

Smoke: Could you guys at least try to see this from my perspective?

Kabal: *crouches down*

Liu Kang: *kneels down*

Nightwolf: *sits on the floor*

Smoke:

Smoke: I hate all of you.

-

Kitana, gardening: Hey, can you bring me the hoe?

Kabal: Yeah, sure.

*A few minutes later*

Kabal: Here you go.

Kitana:

Kabal:

Liu Kang: Why am I here?

-

Smoke: Which country has the most birds?

Smoke: Portu-geese!

Liu Kang: That's a language.

Smoke: Portu-gull?

Liu Kang: Good recovery.

Kitana: I think you mean good re-dovery.

Stryker: TURKEY. HOW DID WE MISS TURKEY?

-

Nightwolf: I'm gonna eat the chicken breasts

Stryker, snickering: Yeah, eat what you lack.

Smoke, deadpanning at Stryker: Then maybe I should order brains on delivery for you.

-

Kung Lao: Who would you kill out of the four of us, Stryker?

Stryker: Smoke, easily.

Smoke, laughing: As if you could.

Stryker: Well, Kabal would be too easy. He'd probably be into it.

Kabal, now standing in the doorway: What the fuck, man!?

-

Smoke: This bloodline ends with me.

Stryker: That's the fanciest way I've ever heard someone say "I'm gay"

-

Kabal: I fell down the stairs today...

Nightwolf: I hope you're okay.

Jade: Stop falling down the stairs.

Smoke: How'd the ground taste?

[rivet77]

Meditation used to be a practice that always confounded me, if I'm being honest. I would set a timer, close my eyes, focus on breathing fully & naturally through my nose, and it would feel like I'm attempting to stop a speeding train. My body would *fight* me, going "you can't stop, you have shit to do, you have things to worry about, how long as it been, surely the timer is getting close to being done, maybe you should check." Practically vibrating in my seat. My eyes would twitch. My body would itch. I'd literally be able to feel my heart squirming uncomfortably in my chest on every inhale. Every cell in my body would want me to stop, and prior to the last few months, I absolutely would have stopped!

Instead, I pushed through it. Insisted on holding the brakes down until I fully stopped, no matter how much the train wanted to keep going. I'd ask myself "why am I so uncomfortable" and start "scanning" my body, going through each part and intentionally relaxing it.

As this process goes on, eventually the breathing pattern stops feeling forced. The air begins to feel much like a drink of water when I'm thirsty, nourishing me, and it feels *good.* My thoughts happen, but I'm only observing them. I watch the lights & patterns on the back of my eyelids, no longer feeling my heart pounding against my chest, and I begin to feel an odd, almost... serene sensation above my eyes. As if a heavenly room opened up in my brain; where observations, ideas, and more come to me without much effort at all. It feels almost as if you're on the very edge of sleeping, without falling asleep. Before I knew it, the timer was going off. That's when it clicked. That's the meditative state I've been looking for.

Ever since I've been practicing it more and more. It's never anything long; I started with ten minutes, then fifteen, and I did twenty for awhile. It doesn't sound like a lot, but when you're sitting with your eyes closed, doing nothing, it can feel like forever (before you hit that meditative state, that is). Fifteen minutes is my sweet spot now, and by simply remembering the feeling of that meditative state, I'm able to reach it pretty quickly in those fifteen minutes. Before, i would spend most of the time trying to get there, but it's gotten much easier, and I almost always feel so much more clear and calm afterwards.

So yeah. If meditation has ever been a problem for you, just know that if you haven't practiced it, you're going to be stopping a moving train when you try. You need to keep holding down the brakes until it stops, or it will just keep accelerating. It'll be uncomfortable, and you'll need to learn to sit with the discomfort, feel it, and let it pass. What I found beyond that is 100% worth it

[reggiejworkshop]

"Crowd Control"

When it comes to large shows, you need to have a large enough of a bouncer crew to deal with it.

If its not the abrasive loudness of the headlining act, its the frenzy they whip the crowd into.  The swirling pit of rowdy toons, the occasional surfers who breach just over said pit, the occasional fights, the ones in front who need a splash of water to stay hydrated, the dancers who manage to jump on and off stage, sometimes with some extra assistance. And yet, in spite of all of that, everyone manages have a good time and  leave the venue with a musical experience that will stick with them until the end time.

So, this is a project I had been meaning to do for the longest time. Part of the reason I put it off for so long is due the fact that planning out the composition took awhile to figure out, even before I put this setting in a poll on what you all would have liked to see for this picture! Seriously, crowd scenes are not easy to put together!

I initially drew this on two separate sketchbook sheets before splicing them together!

Then there was coloring this in. I decided to keep the shadows soft since I didn't want them competing with the linework. Wanted to have this chaotic and raw!

What spawned the extra inspiration for the pandemonium here is a recent show I actually went to earlier this past September. I saw Death Grips, an experimental hardcore hip hop group, in my hometown. They are always known for putting on an energetic show, and this one was no different. Even though I was up in the nosebleed balcony sections, I still enjoyed myself and consider it one of the best shows Ive ever been to!

This is also a celebration for the eight years I've been on Deviantart! One Thousand Watchers and Counting!

Even though I have my occasional issues with that site, and might have more to come in the future, I will always apricate that this place was the first time I ever decided to share my art outside of just friends and family. Ive met so many people there and here, fellow artists, friends, writers, and simple art enthusiasts.

As always guys, thank you so much for your support over the years! Because without you, I might not have done the work I did.

P.S See how many cartoon characters I managed to sneak in here!  Some you might know, others you probably haven't seen in years! You might be able to spot at least thirty here, although I tried to get far more in here with varying success. Some are bit off model and wonky, but they are here!

[arlongsbabygirl]

Can I get some Hachi x reader imagines? 🥺 I love that dumb lil octopus boy

AN: Been awhile since i've done this Pey but Im cracking my writing knuckles just for you. XD

Seashell Smiles The sun is high in the sky, and you’re both sprawled out on the sand, feeling the warmth of the day settle around you. Hatchan, ever the multitasker, has been darting back and forth between the shore and your little spot, collecting seashells with a look of concentration that’s both endearing and amusing. “Look at this one!” he says, holding up a perfectly spiraled shell, his face lighting up with that familiar, wide grin. He seems so at peace here by the water, and it’s hard not to get caught up in his infectious joy.

After a while, he gets up and announces, “I think it’s time for takoyaki,” and before you know it, he’s set up a small grill, cooking up his signature dish with all six arms moving at once. The smell of the sizzling batter fills the air, and you can't help but smile as he hums contentedly, flipping the takoyaki with expert precision. The two of you sit together, munching on the delicious, crispy bites, the sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop. It's a day of simple pleasures, and in the warmth of the sun and Hatchan’s easy company, you feel completely content.

Takoyaki Chaos The clattering of pans and the sizzle of batter fill the small kitchen, and Hatchan is in his element. He’s got all six arms working, flipping takoyaki on one side, stirring sauce on the other, while occasionally juggling a spatula just to make you laugh. “You’re getting the hang of it!” he says, beaming as you manage to make a halfway decent batch of takoyaki on your own. It’s chaotic but fun, and Hatchan’s laughter makes the whole process feel like less of a lesson and more like a playful game.

At one point, he hands you the takoyaki mold and steps back, letting you take over. “I’ll be the taste-tester,” he says with a wink, folding his arms across his chest. You feel the pressure, but he’s so encouraging that it’s hard to mess up when he’s there cheering you on. By the time the batch is done, you’re both covered in flour, laughing so hard your sides hurt. And when Hatchan finally takes a bite, he gives you an exaggerated, chef-like nod of approval, declaring, “Perfect!” with that booming laugh of his. It’s messy, chaotic, and full of joy—just the way time with him should be.

Karate and Smiles Hatchan towers over you, but there’s nothing intimidating about his gentle, patient smile as he shows you the basics of Fish-Man Karate. “It’s all about flow,” he explains, moving his arms in a graceful arc, as if he’s moving through water. His movements are fluid and controlled, and you can’t help but be amazed by how natural it all seems to him.

As you practice the moves, Hatchan stays close, offering quiet words of encouragement. “Don’t force it,” he says softly. “Let it come naturally.” You try again, and this time, it feels smoother, more right. When you finally get the technique down, Hatchan lets out a cheer, his multiple arms raised in celebration. “You did it!” he says, his grin wide and genuine.

After the lesson, the two of you sit on the beach, catching your breath. The sound of the waves is calming, and Hatchan leans back, looking out at the horizon. “You’ve got potential,” he says, his voice thoughtful. He shares a few stories from his past, his tone shifting between nostalgia and reflection. It’s moments like these where you see the depth behind his usual playful demeanor, and it makes you appreciate him even more.

Bubbles and Adventure Sabaody Archipelago is bustling with activity, but Hatchan knows the hidden corners where the noise fades and the beauty of the bubbles truly shines. He leads you through the twisting streets like an excited tour guide, pointing out little-known bubble parks and shops that only locals frequent. “This place has the best takoyaki on the island,” he says, pulling you toward a small food stand. “Well, second best,” he adds with a wink, clearly proud of his own cooking.

As you walk through the shimmering bubbles that float lazily in the air, Hatchan shares stories from his past, his voice a mix of excitement and thoughtfulness. Some stories are funny, like the time he got stuck in a giant bubble and had to be fished out by his crewmates, while others are more serious, touching on his time with Arlong and the changes he’s been through since. His openness catches you off guard, but it also makes the day feel more meaningful, like you’re not just exploring the island—you’re getting to know him in a deeper way.

Brushstrokes and Admiration Hatchan’s place is surprisingly cozy, filled with little knick-knacks and vibrant paintings of underwater scenes. He’s set up a little art station, canvases spread out, brushes at the ready, and a splash of bright colors already decorating his six arms. “Come on, let’s paint,” he says, handing you a brush and flashing that wide, toothy grin.

You sit side by side, working on your own canvases, though Hatchan’s pace is much faster with all his extra arms. “It’s not a race,” he says when he catches you glancing at his progress, laughing as he adds another swirl of blue to his piece. His paintings are incredible—detailed and full of life, with vivid depictions of ocean landscapes and mythical sea creatures. As you work, he offers little tips here and there, but mostly, he just chats, sharing stories about Fish-Man Island and the art he grew up loving.

The two of you fall into an easy rhythm, and by the time the sun starts to dip below the horizon, you’re both surrounded by finished paintings, each one bursting with color and life. “This was fun,” Hatchan says, wiping a bit of paint from his cheek. “We should do this more often.” And as you look around at the vibrant art covering the room, you can’t help but agree.

Starry Nights The night is quiet, the only sound being the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. Hatchan suggested stargazing tonight, and now the two of you are lying on a blanket by the sea, looking up at the vast expanse of stars. “See that one?” he says, pointing to a particularly bright constellation. “We call that the Octopus King back home.”

His voice is soft, almost reverent, as he shares stories of the constellations he grew up with on Fish-Man Island. You find yourself mesmerized not just by the stars, but by the way Hatchan talks about them—with such awe and wonder, like he’s seeing them for the first time, even though you know he’s seen them a thousand times before. There’s something comforting about being here with him, under the stars, the world around you feeling so big and yet so peaceful.

Eventually, Hatchan falls silent, simply gazing up at the sky, and you both sit there in comfortable quiet, sharing the beauty of the moment. The stars twinkle overhead, the waves murmur below, and for a while, it feels like time has stopped.

The Fishman Festival The Fish-Man festival is in full swing, with bright lights, colorful decorations, and the lively hum of music filling the air. Hatchan is grinning from ear to ear as he pulls you through the crowd, his enthusiasm contagious. “You’ve gotta try this!” he says, handing you a fish cake from one of the many food stalls. It’s delicious, and you can’t help but laugh as Hatchan grabs another for himself, clearly enjoying every bite.

The festival is a celebration of Fish-Man culture, and Hatchan is eager to share every part of it with you. He points out traditional dances, pulls you into games, and explains the history behind the festival with a mix of pride and excitement. At one point, he even jumps into the center of a dance circle, his multiple arms moving with surprising grace as the crowd cheers him on. You’re laughing so hard you barely notice when he reaches out, pulling you into the dance with him.

The night goes by in a blur of music, laughter, and lights, and by the time it’s over, you’re both exhausted but happy. “Best festival ever,” Hatchan says as he walks you home, the soft glow of the festival lights still visible in the distance.

AN: Its not much, but I tried and thats what counts! hope ya like it Pey even if this might be..YEARS late ; ~;

[ellraiser]

Mudborne - Devlog #02

Hey everyone! Been awhile since I opened up Tumblr to write something - I've been trying not to add the pressure to make myself post every single month, as half the time I don't have much to say and the other half making it something I HAVE to do prevents it from being something I WANT to do But it's been a little while of working on Mudborne stuff in between all the final APICO update stuff, and I wanted to share where I've got to so far with your new fav frog game

Back To The Drawing Board

So if you haven't already seen, one of the main things I'm doing with Mudborne is updating the style and the art. The gamejam version was made in a week, and a lot of that was shameless art rips of APICO with some reskins - which was still cute but after working in the APICO "style" for nearly 5 years now I wanted something different. For that I'd already played with a few ideas:

The game is set in a pond, so I wanted it to be mostly water. This meant thinking about what the landmass or even buildings would be like - I've always found the land style I did for APICO really weird as it's severe top-down but all the sprites are like sortof side view? So I wanted to work with that in mind and have the land match that perspective more. I also really liked the idea of the stone slabs as the land instead of dirt, as it had a nicer overall vibe and helped the mud stand out from the "dirt" of the early ideas. I also wanted to have lots of plants and nature stuff that wasn't necessarily interacted with but added to the overall scene. One thing I really hated with APICO is it relied on the trees/shrubs for balance of the overall palette, so this time I wanted enough flora scattered across the waters to make it look pretty all the time not just before the player has a killing spree with their axe. What I ended up settling on after a few weeks was this:

As you can see it's mostly water, with some large stone slabs to act as "land" and break it up, and lots of green. I wanted a consistent darker outline for anything you can interact with, which then let me have a lot of "background" flora and scenery.

The stone slabs also felt like a perfect place for buildings - I'd tried an attempt at a few building designs, but overally didn't really like how they fit in with the world

Having the stone slabs as the buildings felt more natural and the little extra details of grates and drains and windows I think helps sell it more as lived in. Also by having a fixed "size" of the blocks in tiles, I could match that for the inside so all the spaces matched up when going in and out (and also means I'd be able to show "hidden" rooms while inside that give you a clue to how to get into them)

To finish it off, I worked on the menu designs to see how the UI would fit in - there's some similarities to APICO's basic UI style but I changed the colors a bit and added more space around all the elements. I also wanted some clearer slot stuff, so like mushrooms and their powder/magic mud to have a small icon for the mushroom, buckets to have a liquid icon - I'd made a few sprites in APICO that were far too similar, so I wanted to avoid that this time round.

I also wanted to keep the main UI as minimal as possible, just some indicators, a current quest log, and then the tooltips if hovering something - this means I've got some flexibility later to add some more stuff. Once I got this coded up I'd tweak a few things, including the design of the titular mud itself, but overall things pretty much match those final concept arts above.

===

Lost In A Dream

With that done I wanted to work on the next main part of the design - the dream world. In the gamejam when you dream you visit the big frog god and they tell you your progress, but what I actually want is a whole dream world that acts as an "opposite" to the waking world.

With APICO I always felt like the gameplay was fun but the NPCs and story and exploration was pretty non-existant. In Mudborne I wanted to expand that, have a similar "maths for fun" genetic puzzle to work on as the core game but then have a much richer world to explore.

With the dream world I could have things change between the worlds - new doors and rooms appearing, broken bridges now fixed, stone lilypads disappearing. By using the big froggy pools the player can switch between the two, and access new areas they couldn't before, along with new frogs or mushrooms or NPCs. This ends up with a sort of APICO x Metroidvania in a way, you find different mushrooms, create new frogs, and based on the frog genetics you can "unlock" these gates to get to new areas - some part of the main story, others optional to learn more about the secrets of the world, but the different frogs will gate your progress and exploration. It also gives me a lot of scope to do fun things with the differences between the two worlds, whether thats trees turning into jellyfish that float around, or NPCs being different and saying/selling different things.

It also has some importance within the story itself so I think it should end up as a nice mix of fun gameplay, cool vibes, and a nice story to tell.

===

Something Old Something New

With the overworld itself I'd done a lot of changes, looking at the gamejam you can see just how much differs, not just colors but the world objects too.

Some of the items I still liked, like the mushroom designs or the basic tools, some I think make for a fun "nod" to APICO, (like the frogspawn being the honeycomb sprite but modified), with the objects themselves though I wanted to try and match that new "perspective" shared by the stone buildings and the trees.

I also wanted to start using some more colors and have things less flat, so it was nice to finally move away from a lot of the stuff I'd drawn for APICO. When it came to the menus though, I still think the rough style of menus worked really well - it's been battle tested and I know what worked and didn't, but the UI has always been pretty solid. The main changes I did was update the spacing between elements to give the slots + UI inside menus more space, and then I wanted to change some of the border/header styles slightly and have the tiny lilypad icon in there too. To start with I just fleshed out a bunch of the machines I had in the gamejam plus a few extra ones (also yes thats a slightly different shade of brown to APICO, you have good eyes!)

I really liked some of the menus have these sort of "mini" interfaces inside that showed a bit more of what is going on in the overworld, so wanted to lean into that a bit with some of the other machines. I also still liked the idea of having some mechanism stuff - for APICO players I appreciate it's lost the charm, but anyone new to Mudborne thats never heard of ol' bee game can still appreciate it!

===

Maths For Fun

As I started implementing the mechanics some of the menus changed a bit - for the current "vertical slice" I'm making for pitches, the main machines I needed were: - Spawner (frog+frog = frogspawn) - Grinder (mushroom = powders) - Cauldron (mud+powders = magic mud) - Nursery (magic mud + frogspawn = tadpole) - Feeder (tadpole + bugs = frogs) - Bed (skip ahead time)

The main differences to the gamejam version is the extra step with mushrooms (so that you don't have to find + pick as many mushrooms as you'll get multiple powders from one), the cauldron accepting up to 3 powders that can be the same or different (so one magic mud can have 3 buffs), and the nursery having multiple layers (so you could do 3 different genetic changes or use a +1 mushroom 3 times for a +3 in one step) The nursery change is the most important here, as being able to do 3 buffs at the same time is important as it's part of the genetic puzzle I'll explain later - but it also removes some grindyness, instead of needing to do 3 cycles for a 4 trait to become a 7 trait using a +1 mushroom, you can do just 1.

The feeder expands the process to include bugs you find to feed the tadpoles - once they grow they'll appear in the overworld as actual frogs again to catch, but this time they might be some new species depending on the genetic modifications you made with the mud. I'm still playing with what the different bugs might do or how which bugs are decided as needed, but I think it gives me a lot of room to play with from a mechanics standpoint. The final "new" machine I needed was the actual teleportation pools - these would have the genetic "lock" that you need to make a frog to match.

The puzzle starts off simple enough, get a frog that matches the 7 traits the pool requires. Putting a frog in the pool starts the little coloured lines to "move" from left to right, stopping if the number the frog has doesn't match whats needed. Once you have a frog with all numbers matching, all the dots can join up, and the pool unlocks to be used to travel between worlds.

"That's easy" I hear you say, and yes! To start with this is easy enough, sure you might need to combine different mushrooms to counter certain modifications you don't want, but you can cycle frogs as much as you want to keep modifying until you get there. However this is me making a game so obviously I need to then show you something that makes you cry - which is when I introduce the concept of ancestors to the genetic locks

Instead of just looking at the traits of the frog, it also looks at the traits of the frog of the previous generation, and maybe even the generation before that! So starting from the first "column" you need to jump to the next one in a single frog cycle, using the right mushrooms to modify the numbers in one leap (ha). 

You then might need to do that again (and again) until you have a frog that has each previous generation matching whats expected. There'll be some tools to help you "predict" this, as well as lots of different mushrooms you'll find as you explore that do different things, +1, -1, *2 AND -1 etc. Planning this out is a nightmare as you can imagine...

Also having 7 traits each with 7 values means a lot of combinations (823543?!?), which means I can "hide" a lot of frogs to be discovered. For example go scroll back up and look at the "finished" concept art without UI for both the waking and dream world - notice that piller on the left? By travelling to the dream you can get the missing numbers that give you a trait "key" you could make to find a new frog.

In this way there can be a bunch of frogs you have to find to progress through the pools to new areas, some frogs you can get through experimenting (what if I do 777777?) and some found through clues in the world. 

===

What Next?

So right now I've planned out all the mechanics and I've been starting to implement them into a prototype of sorts (in my new favourite engine LÖVE) to make sure it all feels fun and has the right vibe, so lots of little bugs/critters roaming around, a cute day/night cycle, weather etc

I'm trying to spend more time on little details and effects in the world, all very small stuff but all adds up without the player realising, reflections or pollen or subtle movement. 

The goal is to then finish that as a vertical slice I can use to pitch to publishers, cos although APICO did well that was a couple years ago now, and outside of this final update I essentially have no releases until Mudborne is done so money is pretty tight :')

While doing that, I'll be continuing on with the game, starting with the first "training" area that will essentially become the demo. My plan is to release the demo later this year showing that first area, while I continue finishing the game to release in 2025 - right now the demo on Steam is still the gamejam version, which while it has some of the vibes it's not the full concept of what I want Mudborne to be, so I'd like to get that updated to really show people what they can have to look forward to.

I have a lot of the full game mapped out now, in terms of the story, areas, npc, general mechanics etc. I'm also literally mapping it out, each area on some graph paper, so will be interesting to see how closely I follow this for the demo + full game, esp. as I've already changed the houses (and is a nice analogue break for my poor eyes)

===

As I mentioned at the start, having to force a devlog every month didn't work great for me, I'd rather do larger devlogs now and again to catch you all up with what I've been doing over a couple of months otherwise it feels like I'm scraping the barrel some months when I've been busy on other stuff. I do share the odd video + sketch in Discord now and again, so if you want to come chat about it I'd love to see you there, but I'm committing to do devlogs when I can so you can keep up with everything <3 ~ Ell

[f1-disaster-bi]

Norrix 18 and/or 20? 🥺🩵

I'll go with 18 since I've done one for 20!

18. Kiss as encouragement

The pencil snapped in his hand and he let it fall to the desk. The notebook he'd been scribbling in was thrown towards the bin as he let out a groan of frustration.

Martin didn't know how long he'd been in here, just staring at the same page and replaying the same melody over and over on his recording equipment. It was probably only hours but it felt likes days.

The melody had come to him first, and it had flowed so easily even if he didn't have enough for a full song. He had felt so inspired but when he had tried to put pencil to paper, nothing had happened.

Normally lyrics came easy to him. They normally flowed like water onto the paper but now there was nothing.

It was like every word had fallen from his head and it was just as empty as the notebook he had tossed aside.

There was a knock on the door but Martin didn't answer as he dropped his head into his hands.

"You've been in here awhile", Lando spoke as he came up behind him. A mug of coffee and a plate with a wrap were set down before arms wrapped around him from behind, "Are you okay?"

"Just...frustrated", Martin admitted, leaning back into Lando’s arms, "I can't write anything"

Lando hummed and pressed a kiss to his head softly before he let go of Martin. He spun him in his chair gently, and cupped Martin's face in his hands.

"Take a break, have your wrap, and try again", Lando advised, thumbs brushing his cheekbones.

"But what if-"

Lando cut him off with a firm kiss that had Martin letting out a shocked little sound.

"What was that for?" Martin murmured softly, smiling as Lando pulled away.

"For encouragement because I know you, and I know you can do it", Lando reassured, smiling at him with nothing but lov, "You just need a break first, so I'm going to go grab my wrap and we'll sit here and watch those Reddit post tiktoks and then you can try writing again later, deal?"

Martin leaned in and kissed him again with a smile of his own.

"Okay, baby, that sounds great"

[lolitastories]

GHOST

Javier Pena x Reader

Chapter 3

“Hey Lola” I smile and wave at Miguel as I make my way to the bar. “Same as usual?” He was already preparing my drink before I could answer.

“Thank you” I let out a sigh sitting on the corner of the bar. I look over and see Diego coming out. “Hey”

“What's going on?” He asks with a smile coming up and starting to dry the glasses. “Haven’t seen you in awhile” Miguel comes up and lays the drinks infront of me.

“Yeah, I've been busy with work. Its hits always at the same time” Miguel didn’t know to make my drink virgin but thankfully I needed this drink.

“Taxes season right” Miguel laughs before leaving to attend the other guests.

“Anything new?” I shake my head.

“Since he showed up on my doorstep I got a sweet invitation for dinner” I downed the drink. I’ve never been an alcoholic person, never got the point. They said it relaxed you and some other shit and maybe it does but never wanted to test out the waters. “More people have been around so I actually had to start working” I get a laughfrom him. Atleast someone is getting the humor out of all of this.

“That was quick?” Miguel comes over and takes the drink and goes to prepare another one. Diego just shakes his head.

“His movement has been still for a while and aslong as it stays there it means he doesn’t feel pressured. '' I smile as Miguel set another drink infront of me.

“I was wondering something” I lifted my eyebrow waiting for his next words. “Would you like to go out sometime? Maybe here for some drinks?” Stuck in the corner with that one. Miguel was a nice guy, hell with it.

“I would like that but I will let you know when. I’ve been swamped at work so I don’t know when I will get a chance to relax again”

“You know where to find me” He smiles walking away again.

“Look at you,” Diego says with a smile. “This will be your first date, since when?” I roll my eyes, taking my attention back to my drink. “Since never?”

“Shut up”

“Honey-”

“Don’t call me that” He knows when I am serious but he also knows just because it upsets me doesn’t mean I won’t get over it.

“Sorry” he lifts his hands up in defense. “I have knowed you since middle school and after that guy, you haven’t given nother guy the time of day” He moved closer making sure nobody heard. “And I know you are only doing this as a cover but it's time you put yourself out there again”

“I will” I shrug finishing me drink

“I can’t remember how many times you got the chance and never took it.” As he places his hands over mine I feel a smooth surface. I turn it to act like I am holding his hand and slip to grab the piece of paper in it.

“I will” I smile getting up.

“No late drinks tonight?” It was 9 and I usually stayed sometime after midnight.

“Not tonight Miguel. Got so much work to finish and I have until the end of this month” I thank them and leave. I carefully move into a spot where it's not suspicious to people who may be watching. I checked the note and intently grew tired. Close the blinds. Hell. As I walk home, well the motel. I drag my feet. This is the fifth night Pena has done this in the span of 3 weeks. He would sneak into the motel and have me close the blinds. Later after we spoke he would sneak out when the men across the street would turn off the lights. This usually happened when my lights were off for a while so it would send Pena out around 1 to 4 in the morning. I got the door acting all normal. I would set my things down and walk into the bathroom doing my usual routine. “I thought I told you to stop coming” I groaned, walking out the bathroom and placing my clothes on a table in the bathroom.

“And I told you I wasn’t until you decided to let us in” I rolled my eyes walking back out frustrated. This is how the night went. I got home and he would be sitting on the toilet. I would take a shower as we start our discussion. After that I would come out and close the blinds. Go into the bathroom and change as Pena moves to the kitchen table. Finally I would ignore him and give him bits and pieces as I try to catch some sleep until morning. He would be out by the time I opened my eyes. Today I was over it. I ignored him as I took a shower and even as I got ready for bed. “You’ve been working overtime and spending time on road trips, what does he have you doing?” I shrug, removing the pillows from the bed and getting into the covers. “Y/N!”

“Shut up” I groaned. It was close to eleven now and all I wanted to do was sleep. I wasn’t tired enough not to stay up. I was tired of the life that I have to live right now. I can’t leave and it's looking like it doesn’t have an end. “Pena” I sigh sitting up. “I don’t have time for your threats or whatever speech you prepared” I say a little too loud.

“You would have to hear it if you would just tell me what's going on” He gets up from the table and walks over. I get up and turn off the lights. I place on my shoes and walk towards the back. “Y/N” he warned. He knew to stay hidden behind the wall as I walked out into the sort of porch outside. I wrap my arms around me as the cool air hits my face.

“I stand out here sometimes. I like to look at the sky and picture myself somewhere else. Usually surrounded by water. Floating and letting the motion of the waves rock me to sleep” I turn my head catching Pena's eyes. “Ironic because I am scared of the open water. I am going to say this as nicely as possible” I turn my body to walk towards the door outline without stepping in, I needed to still feel at peace to not let the frustration out on him. “No matter how much this involves you, you can’t be putting me,you,Murphy, and any other agent on the line. I am not a little girl, all the information I give goes directly to you and the ambassador” Thats when Pena stands up and stops right infront of me. “I can’t have you coming here and risking this operation because of your stubbornness and pride” I say this a little harsher as his presance radiates. It's like I could feel him so much closer than he was. Like he has engulfed me in a tight hug and somehow, that made me feel at peace. “It's not the right thing to do and if I am being honest I feel like everything is slipping off my hands” I hate not having control. Something I should have since it's my damn operation but with him involved it like I can’t get a hold of it.

“Y/N '' I felt his fingers grab my own until he enterwines our hands. “You are stressed”

“No! Pena” I finally let out. “I am scared” That was the last straw. I don’t know what caused it. I don’t know if he hugged me first and tears started falling or he heard my whimper as I cried and wrapped his arms around me. Silence surrounded us both not knowing what to say. The truth came out and I felt vulnerable. I hadn’t felt this way. Losing control wasn’t part of my traits. I was close to losing control and it was making me think of unnecessary feelings I learned to put in the past. “I know what I got myself into. I learned to not take it personally. A great deal of my life I have always been good at keeping my emotions in. To ignore. But-” I look up not knowing what to end with. There is nothing to think about. There is no other choice here, I must finish my operation. I must get back in control. “I'm sorry” I whisper, moving my hands to cup his cheeks. I pulled him closer pinning us against eachother. The kiss was breathtaking. I felt down and sad and having him kiss me felt like a solution. He didn’t seem to mind. It felt like he was desprate to take all the sadness I had in this one kiss. I push him inside, not letting us reach for air just yet. We stumble upon the kitchen table. “Careful” I chuckle, wrapping my arms around him as he slips around my waist. It was a simple long kiss but it was turning into something I craved for.

“Querida” He groaned as we molded together. His back knees hit the bit and it makes him sit down. I dare not let go yet and crawl on to him pushing him even closer for the kiss to never end. I didn’t want to talk. I didn’t want to go back to reality. I only wanted to listen to his moans and groans as I start to slowly grind agains this jean pants. I only wanted to feel his heart beat beating with mine. His smooth finger continued to travel along my back and unclapsing my bra.

“Javi?” It sounded like a question to me but I was begging and he understood that. He took out my shirt and started to leave butterfly kisses starting from my mouth to my collarbone.

“Sounds so sweet when you say my name” I smile. My head falls on his shoulder moving up to kiss beside his ear.

“Javi!” I groaned louder, knowing he was ignoring my plea. Then there was. Not what I needed but it was a start. One head on my breath and his talented mouth on the other. Kissing first and the next licking and sucking like no tomorrow. I throw my head back pushing my chest closer. “Javi!” I screamed. “Fuck” I grab on his head pulling and tugging his hair. I forcefully continue to grind on him wanting nothing more than to get rid of the barrier of clothing between us.

“Mi amor�� It was the heat of the moment I told myself. But it made a shiver run down my spin to my core. “Stop, you’re killing me” He groans and I start leaving kisses and hickies on his neck.

“Don’t you want to hear me scream your name some more?” I move up again, nipping on his ear and slowing down my hips but with more force.

“Yes” he whines. His hands grab on to my hips following my rhythm.

“But, we can stop if-” I didn’t get a chance to finish my sentence when he wraps one arm around my waist and the other helps him not fall on top of me as he turns us around and lays me down on the bed. “No?” I try to hold my laugh but it's cut short. His eyes hold seriousness. Still hovering over me he moves on hand to cradle my cheek.

“No” His deep voice sends another shiver down my spine. His thumb slides over my lips and I give him entrance. A simple suck and his eyes shut. “Mi vida” He groans. With his affirmations alone and sweet nicknames I could orgasm faster than if I was doing it myself.

“Wait!” I pushed into the bed, not in the way I wanted. I hold my finger up signaling him to keep quiet. I run to close the back door and the curtains. A quick chatter from outside and shadows that the moon allows to cast make me jump. I see Pena stand up and walk quickly towards me.

“Do you think-” I shushed him quickly. I grab on to his hand and push him into the bathroom. I open the cabinet and take everything from underneath.

“I need you to keep quiet and don’t come out until I let you out” I open a secret compartment. It was a small space fit for one person. “Pena” I turned around and stood up. “If you hear no commotion you let yourself out” I move out the way to let him. That's when a knock is heard on the other side.

“No way in hell-” I grab a fist full of his shirt.

“Don’t give me that shit right now!” Another knock. “You will do what I say. This is my operation and I won’t have you mess it up. I will send for you when I decide. And only then will you show up, understand? I can take care of myself” I ran back to the room and put my shirt on again. “Get in Pena” I hurry him inside and close it. I get the time to put everything in place before rushing back to open the door. “Hello?” I act like they just disturbed my sleep.

“We are sorry to come at this time Miss, but the boss would like a word with you.” Fuck.

“Okay. Give me a minute to change and I will be right out. They nod and I close the door. I can’t tell Peña because he would be right after us. I changed quickly going back to the bathroom and putting my head inside the cabinet knowing he would be able to hear me. “Please don’t do anything stupid and listen for once. I will keep you in the loop but I need you to promise me you will follow what I said before”

“Okay, but Y/N-“ I cut him off quickly

“I don’t have time Pena, I have to go over things with them so it will be awhile. In an hour you walk out the back door” I didn’t wait for his response as I walked to the door and into the car with these men.

Chapter 4

[softmeetscreatureplz]

24, 26, 5, 6, 12, 15

~ 🪼

Oooh!!! Yayayayayayayayayyyyy77yyy!!! :DD moreeee :333

24: Who is your bestfriend?

Dbdbshsbsbsjsmq. Uh. Hmmmm. Idk how many ppl consider me one of or smth for any of their bestfriends?? So this is. Hard to answer (also only ever had like. One irl best friend lmao). Again probably @\haven-gum-rockrose & @\sugarysakurakitty would be the two ?? Is plural aloud here ?? I'm going to. Think it is bcs i can't make decisions. :> (this question scares me lmao I've had weird best friend drama irl lol)

26. If you could live anywhere with anyone you want, where would it be and who would you bring?

OUGH..

FUCK RHAYS HARD. I'm. I'm gonna assume that's in this world, bcs otherwise the POSSIBILITIES. Are too big. But anyways. Hmmmmmgmgmggnngggg. Definitely!! In a forest smwhere. Definitely Definitely. Probably,,,,, hmmm. For a definite location maybe my grandma's cabin?? She let's us (me dad nd my little brothet) go up there in the fall nd it is. Rlly rllu nice. I think I'd absolutely love to live there, tho I'd want to set it up with running electricity and water. I'd get chickens and a couple indoor cats as well. For who I'd bring with. Also OUGH. Idk how many people would be inclined to living in the woods to be. Totally honest. And if people wouldn't want to come i wouldn't force em ofcourse !! It'd be rlly cool if a decent chunk of my tumblr mutuals could live in the nearby town/other forest cabins tho. (Like @\hildegardladyofbones @\outlying-hyppocrate @\nyx-lacrymaria @\not-so-myconid-witch @\haven-gum-rockrose @\sugarysakurakitty @\cotards-daydream )

I dunno how well I'd function with people in the same place as me so I dunno for that. Esp not that many I think but I'd like it for people being in walking distance. And being able to just come over nd hang out in like two minutes. And share chicken eggs and go down to the river near there and explore the forestry. <3.

5. How do you like to take care of yourself?

.... is it don't an answer?? TvT. Generally I dont. Enjoy. Taking care of myself. I mean I do it but. It's not rlly smth I enjoy ??? Like doing facial thi gs wakes me to aware my My Face (eugh) and also Textures (bad), doing exercises stuff generally just makes me anxious and self conscious. Sleeping is hard because I don't get enough, and when I do I tend to end up spending hours laying on bed ruminating and anxiously spiraling with too much energy so I keep myself sleep deprived most of the time. Eating is iffy because I get very self conscious and also I have A Diet Mom so every once in awhile I get a shit ton of comments pointed at me that uh. Suck.

I try ?? To do the things ?? But. Mmm. I don't. Enjoy it really. It just kinda makes me sorta happy I'm. Done. I guess maybe ?? Going on the swing?? We have one in our backyard nd i like to blast music and go on it. Helps with balance and sorta works out my legs/arms a little?? But i doubt that counts. So. Ye. Idk. Sorry :<.

6. What’s your favorite candle scent?

Dhshsbsbs !!!! Thats a veryveryvery tough one. Specifically because me sense of smell has been shit since I was like two lmao. Generally I tend to like most agents, tho I rlly rlly like vanilla and citrus, esp when mixed !! :3

12. What calms you down?

Hhhmmm. Depends on why I need to calm down?? If I'm upset like crying or feeling to excited and almost manic or just exhausted and done with everything or angry. But. Actually no ye it's pretty much the same- my blankets, my stuffed animals, space, music, and talking myself through it ??? Mainly I think. I like to kinda hunker found with the soft stuff I care about whenever I need to calm down. It helps a lot nd it's rlly comforting. <3. I like getting messages for like hugs nf stuff also that helps a lot,, but I have a rllyy hard time responding to things normally and I tend to feel guilty ?? For it. Which is annoying sm times

15. Comfort food?

Hhhhhhm. Unfortunately. One of the main things that happens whenever I get upset is I get. Outrageously nauseated at the idea of eating. (Diet Mom. Thing. Being guilted for eating has. Unfortunately left it's toll on me. A lot) but ! In general just for making myself feel even more comfy cozy- potatoes !!!!!! Mashed potatoesssss. My favourite. That nd also tomato soup w/ grilled cheese. Bcs campingTM. :].

[writing-in-sin]

LAWLU FIC VERSE IDEA: WEIGHING OF THE HEARTS

For a long while, I've been thinking what to name the fic-verse for my Locker and Evolution fic idea. Since its tied a lot with death and the water, I was reminded of the ancient Egyptians and their beliefs especially that of Ausir/Osiris (the fact that he was chopped to pieces was an odd coincidence)

So i thought, in an effort to save his crew from Blackbeard, Law pushed himself to the limit. He stops rejecting the sea and lets himself drown, welcoming death not as an act of defiance but of acceptance to death itself which also unknowingly evolved his fruit. Before he drowns, Law sets off one last ROOM to then surrender to the sea. By doing what no one else had ever done by surrendering to the seas whilst accepting death to save his crew, it triggered a chain of events in response to Law protecting his crew from Blackbeard, no matter what. Even if that means welcoming death

Even if that means becoming Death himself

And now the very sea itself has become Law's domain, his ROOM -- the Locker of Oceanic Abyss which is his to rule, control and operate as he wishes

Now, the idea is that with the seas itself as his ROOM, it becomes like the Hall of Two Truths. Any soul who crosses over from the Near Shore and into the Far Shore (yes, I took the term/idea from Noragami 😅) will have to stand in trial where Law is the Judge of the Underworld while the rest of the crew could be guides and guardians

As the Reaper of the Deep, Law takes the hearts of those who passed into the Far Shore to be weighted on the scales. If the person fails the trial, they'd be consumed by the watery abyss of damnation. Those who passed, will cross over without worry or if their time hasn't come yet, their heart will be operated on until it heals to then return to the land of the living (Near Shore)

when he's not in his Oceanic Abyss of a ROOM and comes to the surface, it becomes obvious that Law's Devil Fruit abilities and powers are also like the sea now. not only does he retain his original abilities but he's now capable of using sea based abilities too. one of them is to cancel out a Devil Fruit users powers just by proximity alone

now onto the reason on why i'm naming this the Weighing of the Hearts verse. The obvious reason would be of Law and his Heart crew. but there's also Luffy's Drum of Liberation heartbeat and i'm once again reminded of the ancient Egyptian myths. this time, its of Ra and his nightly travels into the underworld/Duat

now the idea is less about Luffy needing to beat some sort of underworld serpent and more to do in taking inspiration about Ra since Nika is noted to be the Sun god in One Piece

basically, i just like the idea of Luffy (who's basically Life) insisting on falling into the underworld every night and right onto Law's lap just so he can snuggle with his husband of Death as Law judges the hearts of others on his captain throne

it'll take awhile for that part to happen though considering the angst in response to Law dying. i wanna write marineford levels of angst and grief...the most prominent in my mind right now would be of Luffy throwing himself at the seas whilst demanding at it to return his Torao to him whilst screaming "HE'S MINE! GIVE HIM BACK TO ME!" over and over again until he passes out from shock, grief and exhaustion

welp, thats it for now. thanks for reading this far!

[talesfromeorzea]

Stories

FFxivWrite2024 Day 24 Prompt: Bar

"Nimble yer a sight fer sore eyes been awhile since the Straits blown ye my way how ye been lass?" Baderon called as Nimble Rabbit strode into the Drowning Wench the Hells Guard gave him a big smile and rumbled, "Well enough and it has been far too long since I've had a good bit o grog ye ken?"

The Hyur smile back and said, "Aye, aye take a seat lass and tell us o yer latest adventurers I dare say me regulars would love te hear a good yarn whilst they whet their whistles."

Drunken cheers came from the nearby occupied bar stools and Nimble plopped herself down on one of the empties catching the flagon that Baderon slid toward her. The Roegadyn sighed and looked down at the cup for a moment murmuring, "I doubt ye'd believe me if I told ye. Hells I find it hard to believe even though it happened directly to me. Spins like one o Wawalago's fish tales it does."

Baderon laughed, "With all ye've done for the realm lass there's no way I'd be calling ye a liar out with it sounds like a stirrin yarn."

She gave a smirk and responded, "Don't say I didn't warn ye. It all began shortly after the big huffla over in Ala Mhigo trying to get their government its sea legs…."

She then began to tell them all about the fall of the Scions to the mysterious ailment, her own encounter with the mysterious Exarch and her subsequent travels to the First and the struggles there. The return of the Scions spirits and bringing the Exarch to his slumbering younger self locked in the Crystal Tower. All the while the drunkards surrounding the bar stared at her slack jawed and even Baderon found himself gaping like a fish out of water as she finished the story.

After a few moments of silence at the end of her tale Baderon cleared his throat and said softly, " 'ad I 'eard that from any other venturer I woulda called em out for tall tales but from ye lass…damn ye had yer'se one 'ell o a trip these last moons."

The Roegadyn nodded stating, "Why do ye think I asked fer the grog."

Baderon laughed and then said, "After 'earing that lass lemme getcha something with a bit more punch to it."

Nimble laughed as the Hyur reached up to some of his stronger spirits and then poured her a glass sliding it toward the Hells Guard who took it and tossed it back. The rest of the night she sat there drinking and conversing with the folks in the Wench happy to be home. Eulmore the closest thing to Limsa on the first had left a foul taste in the back of her mouth from the moment she'd set foot in the Gilded city. It was no where near as homey as Limsa Lominsa was to the sea raised Roegadyn.

[romance-of-three-memes]

I've seen the title of The Disabled Tyrant’s Beloved Pet Fish go by a few times to the point that while I wasn't really interested in actually reading it, I was still very curious as to how such a wacky premise plays out. So thank you for your live-blogging service, this book sounds WILD

Lol I'm glad you're enjoying it, and yeah, it is nuts, but I enjoy when authors take a weird premise that most people wouldn't bother to give much thought to beyond 'haha that'd be so weird and funny' and really run with it. I'm also very fond of how complacent Prince Jing is about how weird Li Yu is as a fish, he doesn't know Li Yu is actually a transformed human at this point, he just thinks he has a really weird and really smart pet fish. Like 'oh my fish keeps jumping out of his tank, I bet he wants to get a better look around, why don't we set up a bunch of bowls with water in them so he can hop around between them and get out of his tank for awhile and go on 'walks', this is a normal thought process to go through and a normal thing to do'.

I also like how the narrative does occasionally remind Li Yu and by extension the reader that Prince Jing isn't an innocent little tsundere, he's sweet to Li Yu but he's cold and ruthless to almost everyone else except for one particular servant who's more of a father figure to him than his actual father. This is partially attributed to how he's been shunned his entire life since he was born with a speech impediment and how he was raised in a cutthroat environment, but as I'm sure you know, a sad backstory does not a good excuse make for doing terrible things.

I mean he hasn't done anything *really* terrible yet, but we already know he has the capacity for it with little prodding, since the original plot of the book that Li Yu is isekai'd into details his descent into tyranny and Li Yu is supposed to change the plot and thus the prince's fate, as well as his personality to an extent.