#hol up.... somethings brewing in here

[aikoiya]

LoZ - Kakariko Food Culture

Ya'll, I have a frankly dumb amount of recipe ideas for the Wild Series.

Part of it has to do with the idea that, in Link's house, he could cook more complex recipes, including 2nd Tier Ingredients. Which are ingredients made of other basic ingredients. A number of these 2nd Tier Ingredients could be used to substitute multiple base ingredients in a recipe, thus giving you more room to work with.

He'd also be able to cook in bulk, which is something I feel like is holding the cooking system in the Wild Series back.

Another idea I had was that the more you cook, the better you get at it, thus the more ingredients you can use in a recipe.

So, Link would start with only being able to use 5 at a time, but the amount can increase up to 6, then 7-8. Then, maybe even 10.

The list itself isn't complete in any capacity.

Affects & Recipes beginning with a * indicates that it is already in the games in one way or another.

※ Will be beside things that were planned to be part of the official series at one point, but for whatever reason, were cut.

Some 2nd Tier Ingredients use the same ingredients, but the end result depends on which kitchen utensil is used to make it. For instance, Pastry Dough & Soup Stock are both made with the same basic ingredients, but you get Pastry Dough using a Rolling Pin & Soup Stock using a Pot. In this way, it would sort of soft block certain recipes behind a specific kitchen utensil.

Kitchen Items:

Cooking Pot, Rolling Pin, Mortar & Pestle (later upgraded to a Spice Grinder), White Frying Pan, Zonaite Brewing Keg, Brick Oven, Saucepan, Cheesecloth, Hōchō-Kaku (A full Sheikah knife set in a knife block), Makisu (a sushi mat), Oil Distillery, Fermentation Jar, & Frost Box (basically a fridge/freezer that uses Ice Runes).

Gathering these things also has another affect. They improve the quality & effectiveness of your final dish, as well as increase the likelihood of getting cooking crits.

---

For more information on the ingredients I'm using, go here: Flora & Fungi, Fauna & Byproducts, & 2nd Tier Ingredients.

I've decided to split thing up:

Kakariko Food Culture

Ordon Food Culture

Gerudàn Cuisine

- Ealiyah Town Food Culture - Highland Gerudo Settlement

Koholint Food Culture

I'd also recommend checking out the Canon Settlement Recipe Ideas & Ruined & Non-Canon Town Recipe Ideas.

For quick travel, go to LoZ Cultural Masterlist. You'll find other recipe lists there under the Food section.

---

List of Effects:

☆Acro = Wall Climb Speed Up. - EoW: Climbing.

Aerodynamic = Skydive Control Up.

Amorous = Aphrodisiac. This is a secondary effect, allowing it to remain even after being cooked with something else. (This is mostly for flavor & wouldn't actually do anything in a game setting. Though, it specifically only activates when a sufficient level of dopamine & norepinephrine is found in the body, it can likewise be cured when a sufficient enough supply of oxytocin is introduced into the bloodstream or by simply avoiding those who cause such reactions until the Amorous food has made its way out of their system. So, it only takes effect if in the presence of someone you legit are attracted to & are in love with, which is why Link wouldn't be affected. He's Zelda's & it'd only work on him in her presence. It also doesn't work on anyone who hasn't finished puberty. It's also known to increase the possibility of reproduction.)

Erogenous = Aphrodisiac. Unlike Amorous, Erogenous needs no emotional attraction for it to work. In this way, it's actually much more dangerous. (Would not appear in games beyond the story. Known to increase the possibility of reproduction.)

Battle Ready = Hearty, Enduring, & Mighty all in one. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of specific places.)

*Biting = Cold Weather Attack.

☆Bubble = Hold Breath Underwater For Longer.

*Dark/Warding = Gloom Resistance.

Depths Stride = Dark/Warding & Glow at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of the Depths.)

Dawing/Dusky = Twilight Blade Attack Up. (Doubles the damage dealt by Sheikah weaponry, Moonlight Scimitars, knives, sickles, & scythes by generating a crepuscular razor, thus dealing twilight damage. Mirror Sheilds are also more effective. Sheikah/Yiga weaponry fused with Silver Lizalfos Horns deal thrice as much damage as normal. Twilight also deals extra damage to undead enemies & Poes, this sets the spirit trapped inside free & results in a Poe Soul. Twilight damage is also noted to be purifying, so defeating Wolfos, Furnix, Bullbos, & Iron Knuckle enemies with Twilight purifies them, thus returning them to their natural state.)

Detox = Helps one fight back against toxins by cutting down on the damage done by said toxins as well as the time until those toxins get out of their system. Can also be used in cooking with Toxic ingredients to negate the Toxic affect. However, it takes a degree of toxicological/botanical/medical knowledge to do so. Also, the higher the toxicity, the higher the Detox effect needs to be in order to counteract it.

Dreamy = Sleep Induction. This is a secondary effect, allowing it to remain even after being cooked with something else. (More for story flavor as somnolents just make you sorta sleepy &, thus, won't just knock Link out cold. Actual gameplay uses would only be included when you use Fuse Weapon to attach the item to an arrow or other weapon, which I'm saying concentrates & amplifies the effects, which allows you to knock enemies out cold. Without the Fuse Weapon rune, you'd need to make a concentrated sleep extract to apply to the arrow/weapon tip by hand. By default, Dreamy items don't work against boss or mini-boss enemies. However, if you go to sleep in a bed within an hour of being affected by Dreamy, you'll get bonuses when you wake up.)

Potent Dreamy = Powerful Sleep Induction. This is a secondary effect, allowing it to remain even after being cooked with something else. (Unlike Dreamy, Potent Dreamy will absolutely knock Link the fuck out. It's basically a tranquilizer. Note that only the scent of a Mawkap will wake him up afterwards.)

Eclating/Glaring = Light Blade Attack Up. (Doubles the damage dealt by swords, knives, axes, sickles, & scythes by generating a cutting light, thus dealing light damage. Light-based weapons such as the White Sword of the Sky, the Master Sword, the Sword of the Six Sages, the Bow of Light, & other such weapons deal triple damage. However, damage dealt from using a Light Weapon fused with a Light Dragon part is quadrupled. Light attacks also deal extra damage to dark enemies. Light damage is noted to be purifying, so defeating Wolfos, Furnix, Bullbos, & Iron Knuckle enemies with Light purifies them, thus returning them to their natural state.)

*Electro = Shock Resistance.

*Enduring = Adds Stamina.

*Energizing = Restores Stamina.

*Fireproof = Fire Resistance.

Fortune = Great Deal. Briefly increases the amount of rupees you get for selling things.

Freezeproof = Freeze Resistance.

☆Piping-Hot = Freezeproof & Spicy. A Hidden Effect. You can’t normally access a Hidden Effect without certain Infusion techniques.

Frost Guard = Spicy, Freezeproof, Biting, & Snowdrift at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of Hebra & Ealiyah Town.)

Gills = Breathe Water.

*Glow = Glow.

*Hasty = Speed Up.

Sanddrift = Sand mobility up & prevents from sinking in quicksand.

Snowdrift = Snow mobility up & prevents you from sinking in deep snow.

*Hearty = 1-5 Extra Hearts.

Hydrophilic = Gills & Rapid at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the Zora. Also pairs swimingly with Zora weaponry.)

*Icy/Chilly = Heat Resistance.

Lava Guard = Fireproof & Rapid. Allows to swim in lava. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the Gorons & Mogma of Gorondia.)

Lightningproof = Nullifies Lightning.

Lightning Guard = Lightningproof & Stormy/Charged at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of Faron, Ordona, & the Gerudo Desert.)

*Mighty = Attack Up.

Nucturnepid - Can see farther in darkness.

Photosynthesis = Sunny & Recovery at once. Allows you to slowly recover hearts over time so long as you're in direct sunlight or under a Lightroot, even if those hearts are effected by Gloom. (This effect isn't normally natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the Mogma.)

※Puissant = Allows one to jump twice. (Turns out that a Twice Jump cooking effect was cut from the final TotK game. So, you gotta know that I'll be effing with that!)

Pyrophilic = Flameproof & Scorching at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of Eldin & Gorondia.)

*Rapid = Swim Speed Up.

Recovery = Allow someone to slowly recover hearts over time.

Reforge = Repairs Weapon or Shield, but must be applied directly.

Auto Reforge = Automatically repairs Weapon or Shield upon breaking.

Revitalizing = Hearty & Enduring at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of specific places.)

Revival = Revives after death with 8 hearts. (Only Fairies & recipes that require Fairies have this effect. Don't worry, no Fairies are harmed during this process. The only thing used is the Fairies' dust.)

Full Revival = Revives after death with full ♡s +1-10 extra ♡s. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of specific places. If you get a crit while cooking, you'll also get up to 10 extra hearts as well.)

Riptide = Water Spear/Blade/Whip Attack Up. (Doubles spear, blade, & whip damage by generating a pressurized stream of water, thus dealing water damage. Zora weaponry does triple. Weapons fused with Silver or Water Lizalfos Horns, Water Lizalfos Tails, Opals, or Pearls do triple as well. But Zora weaponry fused with Silver or Water Lizalfos Horns, Water Lizalfos Tails, Opals, or Pearls do quadruple.)

*Scorching = Heat Weather Attack.

*Sneaky = Stealth Up.

Shadow Sneak = Dark/Warding & Sneaky at once. Stealth increases even more in darkness. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of Kakariko.)

*Spicy = Cold Resistance.

*Sticky = Grip Up.

*Stormy/Charged = Stormy Weather Attack.

*Sunny = Heals Gloom Damage.

Sun Guard = Chilly, Hydrating, Scorching, & Sanddrift at once. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs. Or via well-guarded cultural secret known only to the residents of Gerudo Desert.)

Tenebrating = Dark Blade Attack Up. (Doubles the damage dealt by Sheikah/Yiga weaponry, Gloom weaponry, sickles, & scythes by generating a vicious dark force, thus dealing dark or shadow damage. Sheikah/Yiga weaponry fused with dark monster parts triples the damage dealt.)

*Tough = Defence Up.

Toxic = Inflicts Poison. This is a secondary effect, allowing it to remain even after being cooked with something else. (Note that certain Toxic ingredients can be prepared specially to be made edible or to make things like medicines.)

☆Vitality = Temporary Stamina Use Reduction.

Max Vitality = Max Energizing & Stamina can be used freely for a certain amount of time. (This effect isn't natural to a single ingredient & can only be achieved via special recipes, using special cooking techniques known only to the best chefs.)

Windshear = Wind Blade Attack Up. (Doubles the damage dealt by swords, knives, axes, sickles, & scythes by generating a cutting wind, thus dealing wind damage.)

---

Special Attention: Whenever a recipe says "Any Butter," just assume that that also includes Browned Butter. Likewise, whenever a specific type of butter, such as Ordon Butter or Lon Lon Butter, is called for, that also includes their Browned variants.

The reason for this is because Browned Butter is just an overall improvement on regular butter & can be used in damn near anything. From savory, to sweet, to vegetables.

It's just a simple way to elevate your cooking.

Of course, there is also an in-game reason. The better quality the ingredients you use, the better the results you get from the final product with a higher chance of getting crits.

Also, unless certain ingredients are specifically listed in the name, many ingredients can be substituted for another one from the same category or sub-category. The ingredients listed here are just how the specific settlement makes it.

---

Kakariko is a Sheikah settlement in West Necluda.

High Spirits Produce sells 12 Swift Carrots, 3 Fortified Pumpkins, 5 Bird Eggs, 5 Goat Butter. In AoC, they sell 10 Swift Carrots, 10 Fortified Pumpkins, 5 Bird Eggs, 5 Goat Butter, & 5 Cane Sugar.

The Sheikah cultivate Swift Carrots, Fortified Pumpkins, Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox; basically a Soybean mixed with an Edamame), Kakariko Adzuki, Shadow Yams (Dark/Warding), Freshwater Cucumbers (Rapid & Hydrating), Kakariko Plums (Sneaky & Detox), Shade Rice (Tenebrating & Detox 2), & Snowdrift Buckwheat (Snowdrift). Not to mention the Cucoos having a little Hideaway nearby where you can find plenty of eggs.

You can find Sanke Carp in Lantern Lake.

Silent Shrooms, Blue Nightshades, & Ironshrooms can be found out & about.

You can also find Sneaky River Snails & even some Water Cabbages (Gills & Hydrating) in some of their patties & Rushrooms on the sheer cliffaces nearby. Maybe 3 Hylian Tomato (Hydrating) plants & 1 or 2 Apple trees.

There are Hearty Truffles, Silent Shrooms, & Fairies in the Kakariko Village Cave. And a couple of Brightcaps grow in the Kakariko Village Well.

Then, there is the Satori Trees in the Zora's Domain, which gives them relatively easy access to Satori Cherries (Hasty & Hydrating), Satora Blossoms (Hasty & Amorous), & Endura Carrots in the spring.

Kakariko Plums are a famous staple of the village & the village is close enough to Lanayru Bay that they have relatively ready access to Frostclaw Lobsters (Biting), Necludic Seaweed (Gills), & other such Necluda Oceanic delicacies as Hideaway Halibut (Sneaky), Venin Pufferfish (Toxic), Statictail (Electro), Endura Tuna (Enduring), Vicegrip Octopus (Sticky), Tigerstripe Mackerel (Hasty), & other Necludic fish. As well as having access to Hearty Roe (Hearty) due to the Endura Tuna.

An Oxen Shark (Mighty) will even wander through occasionally. However, due to this being an infrequent thing, the Sheikah still haven't perfected the cooking of shark the way they have in Lurelin. There have also been Lynelfish (Toxic) showing up in the bay, which is concerning as they are a very invasive species.

There are also Fleetstream Eels (Rapid) from nearby rivers.

You can also find Dreamdrop (Dreamy & Detox; basically loquats) bushes growing wild in the mountains, which Everlost Silkworms (Glow) live in, giving the Sheikah access to silk. Those silkworms eventually turn into Everlost Moths (Glow), which are an important creature for the Sheikah due to their association with spirits. You can harvest fruit & leaves from these Dreamdrop bushes. There's also Stamstall Kudzu (Vitality) growing all over the mountains around there too. Which is good for business, because kudzu roots make the highest quality starch in Hyrule.

There are also Hyrule Bass & Staminoka Bass in the nearby Telta Lake.

And while not native to Kakariko, some Sheikah farmers have begun cultivating Hydromelons (Hydrating 2) as many in the village quite enjoy the flavor. They have since mutated into Moonblessed Melons (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2).

Plus, they have strong trade agreements with the fishing villages of Hyrule, meaning they have access to a lot of the various other fish around the country.

The Sheikah actually have a secret Shōyu that they've had fermenting for over a century. The aroma is super intense, but the flavor is deep & rich, like something between a sauce & chocolate. It's super nutty. They use it to make a tea that is drunk before especially important meals as it's supposed to open up your palette & detox your gut.

Not to mention, something that you can't typically buy anywhere else; Kakarikōji (カカリ糀) & Sheikōji (精麹). This is a type of mold that grows on Hylian Rice, Shade Rice (Tenebrating), or Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky), either as plants or cooked, otherwise, it can also be grown on Mochiko. The major reason that it can really only be bought in Kakariko is because it takes an understanding of culturing to produce & harvest reliably. This is partly due to the substance needed to inoculate them so that the Kakarikōji can grow. It is regularly used as a fermentation culture, especially by the Sheikah who do an unusual amount of fermenting, as well as brewers from all over Hyrule.

As for Sheikōji (精麹), it is made by crushing Tabantha Wheat & rice into blocks & allowed to have mold & yeast grow on them. Which is weird, but hey, it works! Mainly used in the creation of Sheikan alcohols.

- Locally Made 2nd Tier Ingredients:

Splash Juice (Rapid) = Splash Fruit. - The Juice of a Splash Fruit. Smells slightly Palm Fruit-y, but is often used as the primary alternative to Water.

Monster Gelatin = Bones, Hooves, a/o Scales (Blin, Lynel, or Dragon). - More expensive & dangerous alternative to Animal Gelatin or Boiled Chuchu Jelly. The jellies & whatnot that it makes also tends to be much more incrementally high quality for how strong the source is.

Apple Jam = Any Apple, Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

- Tomato Jam (Hydrating) = Hylian Tomato, Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

- Moonmelon Jelly (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2) = Moonblessed Melon (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2), Courser Honey, Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

- Kakariko Jelly (Sneaky & Detox) = Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox), Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

- Dreamdrop Marmalade (Sunny & Dreamy) = Dreamdrop (Dreamy & Detox), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Sundelion, Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

- Satori Jelly (Hasty & Hydrating) = Satori Cherry (Hasty & Hydrating), Cane Sugar, & Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin.

Mochigome = Hylian Rice, any Vinegar (optional), any Salt (optional), any Spice or Sweetener (optional), & Water/any Milk/Splash Juice (Rapid). - Glutinous rice cooked, strained. For more flavor, add Seaweed, Spice, or simply cook in broth or milk instead of water. Written as Mochigome (もち米) in Kakariko.

- Kagemochigome = Shade Rice (Tenebrating), any Vinegar (optional), any Salt (optional), any Spice or Sweetener (optional), & Water/any Milk/Splash Juice (Rapid). - Glutinous rice cooked, strained. For more flavor, add Seaweed, Spice, or simply cook in broth or milk instead of water. Written as Kagemochigome (影もち米) in Kakariko.

Mochiko = Mochigome. - A type of sweet rice flour made from cooked Mochigome (もち米) or glutinous rice. Spelt Mochiko (餅粉).

- Kagemochiko (Tenebrating) = Kagemochigome (Tenebrating). - A type of sweet rice flour made from cooked Kagemochigome (影もち米) or glutinous rice. Spelt Kagemochiko (影餅粉).

Sobako (Snowdrift) = Snowdrift Buckwheat (Snowdrift). - Buckwheat flour. Can also be used in place of other flours.

- Rice Bread = Mochiko, any Milk, & Rock Salt. - First invented by a Sheikah & Gerudo couple, the 2 having bonded over their mutual love of food & baking. Considered a 2nd Tier Ingredient due to its use in making sandwiches. Pairs well with soups & stews. Called Shokupan in Kakariko.

- Milk Bread = Bread Mix, any Milk, Cane Sugar, Heavy Cream, & Courser Honey.

- Soba Bread (Stormy 2) = Sobako (Snowdrift), Baking Buddy (Stormy), Rock Salt, & Buttermilk (Stormy). - Considered a 2nd Tier Ingredient due to its use in making sandwiches. Pairs well with soups & stews.

Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating) = Kakariko Adzuki, Splash Fruit, Cane Sugar, & Rock Salt. - Used to make wagashi.

- Taidai Karaan (Lightningproof) = Farore Hazelnut (Lightningproof), Kakariko Adzuki, Sheikah Tōnyū (Sneaky & Detox), Cane Sugar, & any Rum (optional). - A chunky sweet bean paste made from hazelnuts. Perfect for desserts.

Vinegar = Any Apple/Dreamdrop (Dreamy & Detox)/Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox)/Hylian Rice/Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding). - Made from alcohol from fermented plant foods, then exposed to oxygen, then fermented again.

*Oil Jar = Any Plant. - Aguacaté are especially good for making oil.

Porridge Base = Hylian Rice, any Milk/Broth, & Rock Salt (optional). - Whether the Porridge is sweet or savory depends on the liquids you cook the rice in.

Baking Buddy (Sneaky & Detox) = Bird Egg, any Apple/Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox) & Rock Salt. - Basically just baking soda & baking powder.

Kuzudenpun (Vitality) = Stamstall Kudzu (Vitality). - Starch made from the roots of kudzu. The highest quality starch in Hyrule.

Egg Noodles = Tabantha Wheat, Rock Salt, & Bird Egg.

- Rice Noodles = Hylian Rice & Salt.

- Kudzu Noodles (Vitality & Hydrating) = Kuzudenpun (Vitality), Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), & Splash Fruit. - Noodles made from Kudzu starch. Doesn't have much flavor, but has a silky-smooth texture. Commonly used in sweet deserts.

- Soba Noodles (Snowdrift) = Tabantha Wheat, Sobako (Snowdrift), & Kuzudenpun (Vitality). - The Buckwheat is mostly only grown in fall & winter, so it's typically a cold weather ingredient. Has a nutty flavor.

- Ramen Noodles (Mighty & Hydrating) = Mochiko, Rock Salt, Masa (Mighty), Bird Egg, & Kansui (Stormy/Windshear & Hydrating).

- Rice Dumpling Dough = Mochiko, Rock Salt, & Oil Jar.

Fried Rice Base (Energizing/Enduring & Detox) = Hylian Rice, Bird Egg, Rock Salt, any Carrot, Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), & Stambulb. - Endura Carrots are best because they don't clash with the Stambulbs. However, because neither are the focus of the ingredient, it does make it so figuring out which affect is kept is a coin toss.

Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox) & Kakarikōji. - A savory dipping sauce best paired with fish. The Sheikah just call it Shōyu. Just soy sauce.

Sheikah Tōnyū (Sneaky & Detox) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox). - Soy milk.

- Sheikah Tofu (Sneaky 2 & Detox 2) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox) & Sheikah Tōnyū (Sneaky & Detox).

Sheikah Daizudori (Sneaky 2 & Detox 2) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Oil Jar (Sheikah Edadaizu), Hylian Rice. - Thin wrappers made from compressed beans.

Harumaki = Mochiko, Rock Salt, & Splash Fruit/Palm Fruit/Hydromelon/Moonmelon (Dawning/Dusky). - Rice wrappers. Depending on the liquid you use, it can be for sweets or savories.

Sly Miso (Sneaky & Detox) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Rock Salt, & Kakarikōji. - A sort of brown soy paste made using a Fermentation Jar. A super food that is known to be very healthy. Especially good in soups.

Kansui (Stormy/Windshear & Hydrating) = Baking Buddy & Shock Fruit/Windfall Lime (Windshear & Hydrating). - Primarily used to make ramen noodles.

Mayonnaise = Any Egg, Rock Salt, & Oil Jar. - Originally made in Ordon.

- Spicy Mayo (Spicy) = Mayonnaise, Spicy Pepper/Goron Spice, Cane Sugar, Stambulb, Shock Fruit, & Oil Jar.

Seeker Tamari (Sneaky 2 & Detox) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Rock Salt, Hylian Rice, & Silent Shroom.

Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding) = Shadowfolk Shochu (Dark/Warding), Mochiko, & Kakarikōji.

Unagi Sauce (Shadow Sneak 2 & Detox) = Seeker Tamari (Sneaky 2 & Detox), Kakariko Umeshu (Sneaky), Cane Sugar, & Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding).

Shadowsneak Hoisin (Shadow Sneak & Detox) = Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), Hylian Rice, Cane Sugar, Rock Salt, Stambulb, Vinegar, & Spicy Pepper.

Gomi Togarashi (Spicy) = Spicy Pepper, Akkala Cinnamon (Hasty), Swampland Celery/Windblade Leek (Windshear)/Heartichoke (Hearty), Barricade Cloves (Tough), & Thunder Button (Stormy). - Just five spice.

Ume Marinade (Sneaky 2 & Detox) = Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Courser Honey, Stambulb, Kakariko Umeshu (Sneaky), & Cane Sugar.

Dashi =  Any Saltwater Fish & Necludic Seaweed (Gills)/Water Cabbage (Gills & Hydrating), any Mushroom (optional), any Shrimp (optional), Kakariko Adzuki (optional), & Sheikah Edadaizu (optional; Sneaky). - Used in making Sheikah-style soups. Depending on the type of flavor you want, you can use a variety of different ingredients, but saltwater fish & Necludic Seaweed/Water Cabbage are required.

Narutomaki = Any White Fish, any Seafood, Rock Salt, any Egg, & Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding). - Little cakes made from minced fish. Typically used in soups.

Takoyaki Sauce (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2) = Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox), Cane Sugar, & Hylian Tomato.

Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox) = Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Sheikah Sake (optional; Sneaky), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), any Mushroom (Silent Shroom recommended for greatest effect), & Dashi. - A Kakariko noodle soup base.

Tempura Batter (Spicy) = Tabantha Wheat, Tundra Potato (Spicy), & any Egg.

Ponzu Sauce (Shadow Sneak & Detox) = Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Vinegar (Hylian Rice), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), Cane Sugar, Dashi, & Citrus Zest (Lurelin Orange & Shock Fruit).

- Recipes:

*Meat-Stuffed Pumpkin (Tough 1-2 - 2:10 & 3-7♡) = Fortified Pumpkin, any Meat, & Armoranth. - 'This hollow, meat-filled pumpkin is a local specialty of Kakariko Village.'

*Mushroom Rice Balls (Sneaky 1 - 4:00 & 3♡) = Silent Shroom, Mochigome, & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). -

- *Veggie Rice Balls (Sneaky 1 - 9:00 & 2♡) = Blue Nightshade, Mochigome, & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). -

- *Seafood Rice Balls (Sneaky 1 - 4:00 & 4♡) = Stealthfin Trout, Mochigome, & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). -

- *Meaty Rice Balls (Rapid 1 - 4-8♡) = Red Meat, Mochigome, & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). -

Yaki Onigiri (Shadow Sneak & Detox) = Any Rice Ball, Oil Jar, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Cane Sugar. - Combine the soy sauce, mirin, & sugar for the glaze. Then fry the Onigiri in a Frying Pan until lightly Browned before brushing the glaze onto both sides. Then, return to the pan & fry until both sides are crispy.

*Sundelion Porridge (Sunny - +5💖 & 3♡) = Sundelion, Courser Honey, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), & Porridge Base. - The Sheikah refer to it as Taiyōyuri Okayu.

- Tea Porridge (Energizing - ) = Korok Frond/Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Courser Honey, & Porridge Base. - The Sheikah refer to it a Ocha Okayu.

- Plum Porridge (Sneaky & Detox) = Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox), Courser Honey, & Porridge Base. - The Sheikah refer to it a Ume Okayu.

- Fish Porridge (Detox) = Porridge Base (using Broth; bone is best), Stambulb, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), any Egg, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), & any White Fish. - This version of the dish is more heavily spiced than it is in Ordon.

- Medicinal Porridge (Detox) = Deadly Mandrake (Toxic), Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Hoy Mustard (Spicy), Sauerkraut (Gills & Hydrating), Hearty Radish (Hearty), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Broth, & Porridge Base. - A very nourishing, medicinal porridge.

Shrimp Tempura (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Shrimp, Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Crispy fried shrimp.

- Crab Tempura (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Crab, Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Crispy fried crab meat.

- Lobster Tempura (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Lobster, Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Crispy fried lobster.

- Vegetable Tempura (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Vegetable (Fleet-Lotus Seeds or Freshwater Cucumber recommended), Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Crispy fried veggies.

- Mushroom Tempura (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Mushroom, Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Crispy fried mushrooms.

- Crustacean Tempura Feast (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Shrimp, any Crab, any Lobster, any Vegetable (Fleet-Lotus Seeds or Freshwater Cucumber recommended), any Mushroom, Tempura Batter (Spicy), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Dashi, Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - A veritable feast of fried seafood.

Deep-Fried Dolphinfish (Shadow Sneak) = Swiftcurrent Dolphinfish (Rapid), Oil Jar, Tempura Batter (Spicy) or Dashi, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Rock Salt. - Dolphinfish is best deep fried. The Sheikah refer to this dish as Hayai-Nagare Shīra no Tō-Age, but Faronites have their own recipe for it that they call Māmā-Kahe Mahi-Mahi Palai.

Shark Karaage = Shark Meat (Mighty), Oil Jar, Tabantha Wheat, Rock Salt, Charred Pepper (Scorching), Stambulb, Spicy Pepper, & Hylian Tomato. - Crunchy, yet also soft, this shark meat has been deep-fried to perfection. Based on Dave the Diver.

Sheikazushi (Sneaky 2-3 - 8:00 & 5♡) = Mochigome, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), Stealthfin Trout, Silent Shroom, Blue Nightshade, & Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky). - A sort of Sheikah seafood platter. Is often served in celebration of a Sheikah completing their training, typically after said Sheikah has had their ears pierced.

- Unagi Nigiri = Mochigome, any Eel, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), & Unagi Sauce (Sneaky). - Slices of seared BBQ Eel on top of formed rice & tied with nori.

- Kaikōmutsu Nigiri = Marine Trench Perch (Gills), Mochigome, Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky), & Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny). - The fish is known for its velvety richness.

Toge Uni Nigiri = Barbed Urchin (Toxic), Cane Sugar, Mochigome, Oil Jar (Vegetable), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), & Gleam Ginger (Sunny). - While briny, Uni is also sweet.

- Necluda Sashimi = Hideaway Halibut (Sneaky)/Endura Tuna (Enduring)/Statictail (Electro), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Thin slices of fish arranged artfully upon a plate & served without rice. Any combination of the abovementioned fish will work. Can even use all of the fish to increase the amount of hearts recovered from the dish. Is technically a 2nd Tier Ingredient, however it can be eaten as is.

- Tora Saba Sashimi = Tigerstripe Mackerel (Hasty), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Shock Fruit, & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Is technically a 2nd Tier Ingredient, however it can be eaten as is.

- Tōsokurui Sashimi = Vicegrip Octopus (Sticky)/Abyssal Squid (Dark/Warding), Rock Salt, Necluda Seaweed (Gills), Hearty Radish, Ponzu Sauce (Shadow Sneak), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Is technically a 2nd Tier Ingredient, however it can be eaten as is.

- Baradai Sashimi (Stormy & Amorous) = Hearty Sea Bream (Hearty & Amorous), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Ponzu Sauce (Shadow Sneak), & Shock Fruit. - Is technically a 2nd Tier Ingredient, however it can be eaten as is.

- Seiteki Buri Sashimi (Electro) = Statictail (Electro), Windblade Leek (Windsheer), Oil Jar, & Ponzu Sauce (Shadow Sneak). - Is technically a 2nd Tier Ingredient, however it can be eaten as is.

- Doku-Fugu Usuzakuri = Venin Puffer (Toxic), Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky), & Rock Salt (optional). - For those who want to live dangerously. Puffer is commonly eaten by Sheikah who've gotten to a specific level in toxin immunization. The meat is sliced thinly & arranged into an artful lotus shape.

-- Rainerukasago Usuzakuri = Lynelfish (Toxic), Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky), & Rock Salt (optional). - Not nearly as dangerous as Puffer so long as you're careful not to get stuck while preparing it, but delicious all the same. Without seasoning, the white meat is firm & flaky with a mild flavor.

--- Rainerukasagozushi = Lynelfish (Toxic), Tidal Grapes (Riptide), Mochigome, & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Not nearly as dangerous as Puffer, but delicious all the same. Without seasoning, the meat is firm with a mild flavor. This delicate-tasting fish is served over Tidal Grapes hidden inside rice. The salty-sweet taste of the Tidal Grapes complements the flavor well.

- Sheikah Temaki = Hideaway Halibut (Sneaky)/Endura Tuna (Enduring)/Hearty Salmon (Hearty)/Statictail (Electro)/Tigerstripe Mackerel (Mighty)/any Crab/any Shrimp, Mochigome, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), Hylain Tomato/Stambulb/any Mushroom, Freshwater Cucumber (Rapid & Hydrating), Lon Lon Cream Cheese (optional), & Aguacaté (optional; Rapid). - These small rolls have nori on the outside with rice & other ingredients on the inside. It's recommended that you only use one of the abovementioned fish.

- Spicy Sheikahmaki = Endura Tuna (Enduring)/any Crab/any Shrimp, Mochigome, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), Hylain Tomato/Stambulb/any Mushroom, Freshwater Cucumber (Rapid & Hydrating), Spicy Mayo (Spicy), & Aguacaté (optional; Rapid). - These small rolls have nori on the outside with rice & other ingredients on the inside. Typically comes in spicy tuna & crab. It's recommended that you only use one of the abovementioned fish.

- Kani to Sake Futomaki = Any Crab, Mochigome, any Salmon, Necluda Seaweed (Gills), Aguacaté (Rapid), any Veggie, Spicy Mayo (Spicy), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky & Detox), & Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny). - A giant roll stuffed with crabmeat & salmon sashimi. Gives a bunch of hearts.

- Zephos Chirashizushi = Mochigome, Necluda Sashimi, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), Bird Egg, any Carrot/Hylian Tomato/any Mushroom/Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), & Hearty Roe (Hearty). - A seasoned rice bowl topped with slices of fish, vegetables, & roe.

- Tempura Sushi = Any Shrimp, Tempura Batter, Mochigome, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky & Detox), & Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny). - Fried shrimp on rice.

- Keatonzushi (Sneaky 2) = Mochigome, Sheikah Tofu (Sneaky 2 & Detox 2), & Oil Jar. - A fried tofu dish. Said to be the Keaton's favorite treat. Often made in the fall for Sheikioku.

- Sky Sashimi Set = Solarscale Bream (Sunny), High-Flying Fish (Aerodynamic), Stratusailfish (Windshear), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky & Detox), & Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny). - A very new dish only recently created after the Sky Islands first appeared. The ingredients are hard to get, but worth the effort. - Inspired by Fantasy Life's Sky Sashimi Set.

- Fancy Sashimi Set = Hearty Sea Bream (Hearty), Iridescent Berata (Glow), Legendfish (Mighty), Hearty Salmon, Hearty Roe (Hearty), Hylian Loach (Gills), Necluda Seaweed (Gills), Sheikah Shōyu (optional; Sneaky & Detox), & Gleam Ginger (optional; Sunny). - An extremely fancy & expensive Sashimi Set, using only the highest-quality ingredients. While the overall flavor is mild, it's also extremely complex with definite umami. The various different light tastes are somehow able to melt together while also remaining distinct. - Inspired by Fantasy Life's Fancy Sashimi Set.

Nikogori = Boiled Chuchu Jelly/Gelatin (Lynel Hoof), any Fish, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Stambulb, Windblade Leek (Windshear), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3). - A jellified fish broth. Basically fish aspic. A Knoutfish (Hydrating) would actually be ideal for this recipe. Using Gelatin results in a higher quality Nikogori.

Seiteki Buri Daikon (Electro) = Statictail (Electro), Hearty Radish, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), & Cane Sugar. - A wintertime dish. It's important to simmer it in the broth for 25 minutes.

Miso Salmon = Any Salmon, Sly Miso (Sneaky), Courser Honey, Vinegar (using Hylian Rice), Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Cane Sugar (optional), Oil Jar (optional), Windblade Leek (optional; Windshear), & Huakiao Spice. - This glazed fish is wonderful when paired with Hylian Rice. First, pat the Salmon dry, then whisk together all the other ingredients (except the leeks) in a bowl to make a marinade. Brush half the marinade over the fish. Let sit for 15 minutes, then bake at 400° F for 7 minutes. Brush more marinade, then keep baking until cooked. Around 6-8 minutes. Finally, place on a place & garnish with leeks.

Nabemono (Sneaky 3 & Detox 3) = Any Vegetable, any Meat, any Seafood, Sheikah Tofu (Sneaky 2 & Detox 2), Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), & any Noodles. - Kakariko's take on the Hot Pot.

Doku-Fugu-Kimo (Toxic) = Venin Pufferfish (Toxic). - The liver is thought to be the tastiest part of the Puffer, but it is also the most poisonous. Only chefs with the registered knowhow in the preparation of Puffer are allowed to make it &, even then, only Sheikah who've mastered toxin immunization training & have the tattoo to prove it are allowed to eat it.

Savory Chimaki (Sneaky 3) = Mochigome, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Cane Sugar, Rock Salt, Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Fleet Lotus (Hasty), Baking Buddy (Sneaky), Oil Jar, & Red Meat (Pork). - Triangular sticky rice dumplings filled with savory fillings that are cooked by boiling or steaming. They are typically steamed in Lotus, Corn, Banana or Ginger leaves. Learned from the Sheikah, they have become a Gerudàn & Faron festival treat. Called Ladhahï Rāzxï by Gerudo & Ono Laikimahu by Lurelinites.

Chashu (Shadow Sneak 3) = Red Meat (Pork), Courser Honey, Shadowsneak Hoisin (Shadow Sneak 2-3), Gomi Togarashi, Sheikah Tofu (Sneaky 2), Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), & Sheikah Sake (Sneaky). - A type of sweet, sticky barbequed meat with a lot of umami.

Toryufu Yakiniku = Red Meat (Beef; Striploin), Rock Salt, Cavern Sorrel (optional; Dark/Warding), Starlight Rosemary (Glow), Charred Pepper (Spicy), & Hearty Truffle. - Grilled meat filet topped with Hearty Truffle. Perfect flavor pairing.

- Hoy Yakiniku = Red Meat (Beef; Sirloin), Rock Salt, Cavern Sorrel (optional; Dark/Warding), & Hoy Mustard Seeds (Spicy). - Grilled marbled sirloin topped with Hoy Mustard Seeds. Really elevates the dish & cuts through the fat just a bit.

- Ganbari Yakiniku (Shadow Sneak) = Red Meat (Beef; Ribeye), Rock Salt, Cavern Sorrel (optional; Dark/Warding), Stambulb, & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky; made specifically using Stambulb & Apple). - Grilled ribeye topped with Stambulb chips & Sheikah Shōyu. This one's a bit chewier, but the flavor just keeps going.

- Ume Yakiniku (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Red Meat (Beef), Rock Salt, Cavern Sorrel (optional; Dark/Warding), & Ume Marinade (Sneaky 2). - Traditionally made using the Yukinoyono Niku method, where the meat is transferred back & forth from grill to Ice Fruit, making the meat very tender. The most soft & tender of Sheikah-style barbeque, by far.

- Aino San-Sō Niku (Sneaky 2) = Red Meat (Beef; Tri-Tip), Hearty Truffle, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Stambulb, Sheikah Sake (Sneaky), Cane Sugar, Windblade Leek (Windshear), & Starlight Rosemary (Glow). - A grilled tri-tip soaked in a Truffle San-Sō juice, then after being cooked, is cut extremely thinly & placed into a pile. The extremely chewy texture of the tri-tip balances out the wonderful flavor profile. Many say that it tastes like love. Either way, it'll certainly send you on a ride.

- Kakumaku Yakiniku = Red Meat (Beef; Hanger Steak), any Apple, Stambulb, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Spicy Pepper, & Aguacaté (Rapid). - A cut of diaphragm meat, otherwise known as hanger steak. Often said to be the best cut of meat. It's marinated in a blend of apple juice, Aguacaté oil, soy sauce, Stambulb, & Spicy Pepper.

Kani no Marine = Brighteye Crab, Rock Salt, Spicy Pepper/Goron Spice, & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Raw Brighteye Crab marinated in a spicy, fermented soy sauce.

Takoyaki = Bird Egg, Tabantha Wheat, Dashi, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Vicegrip Octopus (Sticky), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Takoyaki Sauce, Spicy Mayo (optional; Spicy), & Oil Jar. - Little fried octopus balls!

Kimchi (Spicy) = Water Cabbage (Gills & Hydrating), Rock Salt, Mochiko, Cane Sugar or Honeyed Sugar (Energizing), any Radish, Swift Carrot, Gomi Togarashi (with Windblade Leek, plus Gleam Ginger), & Stambulb. - Pickle & let ferment.

Necludic Tokoroten (Gills) = Necludic Seaweed (Gills). - Jellified seaweed.

Kamameshi (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Hylian Rice, any Carrot, Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), any Meat or Seafood or Fruit or Nut. - A mixed rice dish cooked in an iron pot.

Nanbanzuke = Tigerstripe Mackerel (Hasty), Tundra Potato (Spicy), Stambulb, any Carrot, Windblade Leek (Windshear), Vinegar (made with Hylian Rice), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), Cane Sugar, Spicy Pepper, & Oil Jar. - Fish marinated & fried in vinegar sauce & vegetables.

*Pumpkin Soup (Tough 1 - 5:20 & 4♡) = Fortified Pumpkin, Armoranth, & Creamy Soup Stock. - 'Simply simmer a pumpkin to make this dish. A favorite in Kakariko Village.'

*Carrot Stew (Hasty 1 - 5:40 & 4♡) = Swift Carrot, Swift Violet, & Creamy Soup Stock. -

Spicy Shrimp Soup (Spicy 2) = Spicy Pepper, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), any Shrimp, any Herb, Gomi Togarashi (Spicy), & Soup Stock.

Spicy Kimchi Stew (Spicy 2 & Hydrating) = Red Meat (Pork), Stambulb, Kimchi (Spicy), Sheikah Tofu (Sneaky 2 & Detox 2), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Rock Salt, Huakiao Spice (Spicy), any Radish, Necludic Seaweed (Gills), & Creamy Soup Stock.

Nikujaga (Shadow Sneak 3) = Red Meat, Tundra Potato (Spicy), Stambulb, Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), Cane Sugar, Kudzu Noodles, any Carrot, & Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox). - A Sheikah-style meat & potato stew. This Stew was adapted from Hebran cooking.

Kake Udon = Soba Noodles (Snowdrift), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), Cane Sugar, Windblade Leek (Windshear), & Gomi Togarashi. - A noodley soup where simplicity shines.

- Creamy Uni Udon = Barbed Urchin (Toxic), Soba Noodles (Snowdrift), any Mushroom, any Butter, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Shadow Mirin (Dark/Warding), Stambulb, Windblade Leek (Windshear), & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). - A mild, delicate-tasting noodle dish with a creamy texture.

- Keaton Udon = Soba Noodles (Snowdrift), Keatonzushi (Sneaky), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), Narutomaki, & Windblade Leek (Windshear). - This soup is thought to be favored by the Keaton.

Chawanmushi (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Any Egg, any Shrimp, Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3), any Shrimp/Poultry, & any Carrot. - Steamed egg custard appetizer.

Yume no Ochazuke (Dreamy & Detox 2) = Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Hylian Rice, Dashi, Kakariko Plum (optional; Sneaky & Detox), Windblade Leek (optional; Windshear), any Sashimi (optional), & Hearty Roe (optional; Hearty). - A soup featuring rice steeped in tea & topped with savory ingredients.

Poultry Ramen (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Stambulb, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Zonai Corn (Mighty), Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Bird Meat, & any Mushroom.

- Meat Ramen (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Stambulb, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), any Meat, & any Mushroom.

- Shrimp Ramen (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Stambulb, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), any Shrimp, & any Mushroom.

- Crab Ramen (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), any Crab, Citrus Zest (Windfall Lime & Shock Fruit), Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Spicy Pepper/Goron Spice, Windblade Leek (Windshear), Stambulb, & Gleam Ginger (Sunny). -

- Poultry Tonkotsu Ramen (Shadow Sneak 2-3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Bird Meat (Cucco), Red Meat (Pork), Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Zonai Corn (Mighty). - Tonkotsu Ramen uses a broth made from pork bones, the best are also made with pork skin. The broth is super creamy packed with umami no matter what the rest of the ingredients are. The cucco meat & pork bone broth pair very well together.

- Shōyu Tonkotsu Ramen (Shadow Sneak 3) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox), Red Meat (Pork), Chashu (Shadow Sneak 3), Windblade Leek (Windshear), Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Stambulb, & Necludic Seaweed (Gills). - Tonkotsu Ramen uses a broth made from pork bones, the best are also made with pork skin. The broth is super creamy packed with umami no matter what the rest of the ingredients are. This version has a soy sauce-based flavor that pairs well with the Chashu pork.

- Miso Tonkotsu Ramen (Shadow Sneak 3 & Detox 2) = Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 3 & Detox 2), Ramen Noodle (Mighty), Bird Egg, Sly Miso (Sneaky), Bird Meat (Cucco), Oil Jar, Spicy Pepper, Charred Pepper (Scorching), Zonai Corn (Mighty), & Windblade Leek (Windshear). - Tonkotsu Ramen uses a broth made from pork bones, the best are also made with pork skin. The broth is super creamy packed with umami no matter what the rest of the ingredients are. This version has a more spicy kick to it.

Koibito Ushio-Jiru (Hearty 3 & Amorous 3) = Hearty Sea Bream (Hearty & Amorous), Kakariko Mentsuyu (Shadow Sneak 2-3 & Detox 2), Rock Salt, Stambulb, Hearty Radish, Lovely Rose (Hearty & Amorous), & Sweetheart Orchid (Hearty & Amorous). - Lurelin has their own iteration of the soup called Ipo Holika Saimin.

Fukahire Sūpu = Oxen Shark Fin (Mighty), Poultry (Whole Cucco recommended), Red Meat, Bird Egg, any Mushroom (Hearty Truffle recommended for taste), Zonai Corn (Mighty), & Oil Jar. - This soup uses the filaments of a boiled down, dried shark's fin as noodles & a mainly poultry-based broth with a little bit of red meat to flavor. (Note that while you can use any kind of poultry, that Whole Cucco gets the best results as it gives a very rich, delicious broth.) DO NOT use the water you boiled the fin in! Remember to strain & skim the poultry broth until clear & uniform, but you'll be returning the poultry meat to the soup later. Add the broken up poultry & mushrooms to the broth. Later, add beaten egg yolks & cornstarch. Once done, ladle the soup over the shark fin filaments in a bowl. Finally, sprinkle a dash of sesame seed oil onto the soup. - Note that while the soup is delicious, Shark Fin actually doesn't have any flavor to it. The fin is really bland & the cartilage is an interesting texture. See, the fin is supposed to complement the broth itself. As such, it's really just a means to use up all the pieces of the shark so it didn't die for nothing. Last thing we want is food waste. On a side-note: Shark Meat is actually fantastic.

Fukahone Shuon Sūpu = Oxen Shark Bone (Mighty), Red Meat, Gleam Ginger (Sunny), Stambulb, Swampland Celery, Rock Salt, & Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding). -

- Desserts:

Rice Cake = Mochiko & Cane Sugar. - Is a regular treat in Kakariko, but is also made for festivals.

Agekiji = Cane Sugar, Oil Jar, Baking Buddy, any Butter, any Milk, & Mochiko. - Sugar-covered donuts that originated in Kakariko. Often given to customers as before dinner snacks.

Dango (Detox) = Mochiko, Korok Frond/Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox), & Silent Princess (Amorous). - Is a regular treat in Kakariko, but is also made for festivals.

- Chuchu Dango = Boiled Chuchu Jelly, Mochiko, Cane Sugar, & any 2 Plants. - A treat made with ChuChu Jelly. The bitter coating & sweet filling of this unusual snack is often enjoyed by the Sheikah Tribe during the Hanami Festival. Based on the Second Wind mod.

- Sheiki Dango (Tough & Amorous) = Mochiko, Silent Princess (Amorous), Cane Sugar, & Fortified Pumpkin. - Usually eaten during the Sheikioku Festival in fall.

Kakariko Mochi (Sneaky & Hydrating 3) = Mochiko, Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), & Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox). - Is a regular treat in Kakariko, but is also made for festivals.

- Lavender Mochi (Rapid 2 & Hydrating 3) = Mochiko, Cane Sugar, Swiftsail Lavender (Rapid), Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), & Courser Honey. - The Mochi dough is a lovely shade of light purple that young women very much like. But inside is a sweet bean paste made with honey.

- Yam Mochi (Dark/Warding & Hydrating 3) = Mochiko, Cane Sugar, Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3). - The sweet Yams used to make it has caused the dough to turn a very fetching shade of deep purple.

- Kuzumochi (Vitality) = Kuzudenpun (Vitality), Sheikah Edadaizu (Sneaky & Detox), Honeyed Sugar (Energizing), Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), & Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3). - A wagashi made of Kudzu starch instead of rice flour.

- Satorimochi (Hasty 2 & Amorous) = Mochiko, Satori Cherry (Hasty & Hydrating), Satora Blossom (Hasty & Amorous), & Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3). - Usually eaten during the Hanami Festival in spring.

- Karina Daifuku (Vitality & Amorous) = Karina Fragria (Amorous), Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), Mochiko, Cane Sugar, & Kuzudenpun (Vitality). - A wagashi typically gifted to a significant other on Bonds Day.

- Sheimono Daifuku (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 5) = Mochiko, Moonmelon Jelly (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2), Cane Sugar, Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), & Soleda Cream (Sunny). - A favored Sheikioku wagashi. These cute little rice cakes are a refreshing shade of green that matches their taste. A very recent culinary creation. Sheimono being the Sheikah word for Moonblessed Melon, meaning "moon gift."

Sheikkei = Mochiko, Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), & Fleet-Lotus Seeds/Bird Egg/Chickaloo Tree Nut. - Also called Mooncakes. Usually eaten during the Sheikioku Festival in fall. - Based on IRL festival pastry Yuèbǐng (Chinese) or Geppei (Japanese).

Zenzai = Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), Mochiko, Cane Sugar, Rock Salt, & any Milk. - A sort of sweet bean dessert soup.

Ringo to Yamaimo no Kuzuni = Any Apple, Kudzudenpun (Vitality), Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), Cinnamon Sugar (Hasty), & any Rum. - Apples & sweet potatoes simmered with kudzu starch.

Sweet Chimaki = Hylian Rice, any Kakariko Fruit, Cane Sugar, Baking Buddy (Sneaky), Fleet Lotus (Hasty), Oil Jar, & Courser Honey. - Triangular sticky rice dumplings filled with sweet fillings that are cooked by boiling or steaming. They are typically steamed in Lotus, Corn, Banana or Ginger leaves. Learned from the Sheikah, they have become a Gerudàn & Faron festival treat. Called Xōkàr Rāzxï by Gerudo & Momona Laikimahu by Lurelinites.

Taiyaki = Mochiko, any Butter, Sugar Cane, any Milk, Courser Honey, Kakariko Anko (Rapid & Hydrating 3), & Oil Jar. - A fried, fish-shaped pastry.

Yam Pie = Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), Bird Egg, any Milk, Cane Sugar, & Courser Honey. - While it's called a pie, it really isn't.

Fruit Sandwiches = Milk Bread, Whipped Cream (uses Gelatin), & any Fruit. - A nice summer treat.

MoonMelon Bread (Dawning/Dusky) = Moonblessed Melon (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2), Mochiko, any Milk, any Mushroom, Rock Salt, any Egg, any Butter, Oil Jar, Honeyed Sugar (Energizing), & Cane Sugar. - First invented by a Sheikah & Gerudo couple, the 2 having bonded over their mutual love of food & baking. Has a wonderful, crispy, cookie-like crust. Made in an attempt to merge Gerudo flavor into the bread. Called Shei'okurimonopan (精贈り物パン) by Sheikah. - While relatively new, has become a beloved part of Sheikioku Festival fair.

Pumpkin Pie (Tough 1 - 5:20 & 3♡) = Fortified Pumpkin & Pastry Dough (Tabantha Wheat, any Butter, & Rock Salt). - 'The intense sweetness of Pumpkins makes this dessert popular among children.'

Moonmelon Cream Cake (Dawning/Dusky or Stormy/Charged 2) = Moonblessed Melon (Dawning/Dusky & Hydrating 2), Shock Fruit (Juice), Cane Sugar, Gelatin, Shock Cream (Stormy), & Castella Cake. - Starts with a base of Castella Cake, then combine the Shock juice, Cane Sugar, Gelatin, & Moonmelon puree to make a creme fraiche that you layer on top of the Castella Cake. Cool until solid, then cut & serve.

Honey Moonmelon Cake (Energizing & Hydrating) = Cake Mix, Courser Honey, any Egg, any Milk, Heavy Cream, Cane Sugar, & Moonblessed Melon (Dusky). - This dessert has thin layers of honey cake with thick layers of cream & chunks of Moonblessed Melon between.

- Drinks:

Honeymilk (Energizing - ) = Courser Honey, any Milk, & Akkala Cinnamon (optional; Hasty). - This simple, yet comforting drink originates in Ordon, but is now enjoyed Hyrule over. A favorite for children everywhere.

Dreamy Herb Tea (Dreamy & Detox) = Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox) a/o Swiftsail Lavender (Rapid & Dreamy), Korok Frond, & Courser Honey (optional). - A somnolent tea that cures poison as you sleep. Referred to as Yume no Yōna Yakusōcha (夢のような薬草茶) by the Sheikah.

Sundelion Tea (Sunny - +3💖) = Sundelion, Korok Frond/Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), & Courser Honey (optional). - A gentle & comforting tea with a warm, pleasant flavor that's easy on the tummy. Good way to stay hydrated when you have tummy troubles. Referred to as Taiyōyuri Ocha (太陽百合お茶) by the Sheikah. Use Dreamdrop Leaves at night for pleasant dreams.

Sheicha = Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Fleet Lotus (Hasty), Swiftsail Lavender (Rapid), Sundelion, Spirit Iris (Toxic), & Goldenmerry (Sunny). - Sheikah training their Mind's Eye would often consume this before meditation.

Gyūnyūcha Kōfī (Dreamy) = Zonai Cafégranos (Energizing), Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox), Korok Frond, any Milk, Cane Sugar, Courser Honey, & Akkala Cinnamon (Hasty). - A type of milk tea coffee.

Shōyucha (Sneaky & Detox 2) = Dreamdrop Leaves (Dreamy & Detox) & Sheikah Shōyu (Sneaky & Detox). - Used to open up your palate & cleanse your gut before a meal. Has a very natural umami flavor.

- Brewing:

Kakariko Umeshu (Sneaky & Detox) = Kakariko Plum (Sneaky & Detox), Cane Sugar, Hylian Rice, & Kakarikōji. - An alcohol made in Kakariko from plums. Typically drunk during Kakariko's Hanami Festival.

Shadowfolk Shochu (Dark/Warding) = Shadow Yam (Dark/Warding), Hylian Rice, Cane Sugar, & Tabantha Wheat.

Sheikah Sake (Sneaky) = Hylian Rice & Silent Shroom or Kuzudenpun (Vitality). - A very basic, but classic style of wine. Most common Sheikah imbibement.

Kuzu Sake = Stamstall Kudzu (Vitality), Kuzudenpun (Vitality), & Cane Sugar. - A kudzu blossom wine.

- Satori Sake (Hasty & Hydrating) = Satori Cherry (Hasty & Hydrating), Hylian Rice, & Kakarikōji. - Made every spring when the Satori Trees bear fruit. It is then drunk along with Umeshu during the Hanami Festival. The best yield is offered up to Satori as thanks for allowing them to use his trees' cherries.

Satora Kirakira (Hasty 3 & Amorous) = Satori Cherry (Hasty & Hydrating), Satora Blossom (Hasty & Amorous), Cane Sugar, & Rushroom. - A sugar spirit liqueur infused with Satora blossoms & Satori Cherries. This gives it a delicate, fruity sweetness with notes of Sundelion & Lovely Rose. Has an aroma of Satori Cherries & Karina Fragria with subtle hints of Lovely Rose. Much like Satori Sake, the best yield of Satora Kirakira is also served up to Satori during the Hanami Festival. However, the rest is kept in reserve for next year's Bondsday or is otherwise served during weddings.

LoZ Cultural Masterlist

[ailawritesfics]

HEY CAN I REQUEST :D

How would the boys (bros+dateables) react to a rich mc????

oh and can i be 👀 anon????????

˚₊·͟͟͟͟͟͟͞͞͞͞͞͞➳ 𝓡𝓲𝓬𝓱 𝓜𝓒

✎cw: crack/general, fluff-ish(?), retail therapy(?)

✎notes: I left this one for too long in my inbox, so sorry! :') Hi and ofc, you can be 👀 anon! Welcome to my blog! :D this isn't proofread, I'm too lazy rn

✧Whenever you visit Lucifer in his study you almost always have something to give him, a gift alongside the coffee you brew for the ruby eyed workaholic. The gifts were few and far in-between at first, different high-quality quills, fountain pens, and a phone case. When you noticed that he's becoming more comfortable around you, those presents increased in quantity and quality. The new comfy, stylish chair in his office, the decorative tea set he favors over the other ones stored in the kitchen, the high-quality suit and tie he set aside for special occasions, and a few more; all of it were bought by you as a gift to him

✧How you managed to convince him to accept all of these gifts eludes him. He's grateful to be on the receiving end, however he's quite surprised that you'd go out of your way to buy him something, and of the fact that you're putting effort into choosing quality gifts and spending your hard earned money for him

✧He'll buy a few trinkets for you from time to time as thanks for everything you've given him thus far. The shock is short-lived since he's used to being surrounded by people and/or demons with more money than they know what to do with. Nothing will really change to be honest, aside from the fact that you'll both end up with new stuff every other day

✧On the outside he'll be complaining about being 'forced' to go with you but inside he's celebrating-- you chose him over his brothers! But why did you drag him out of HoL this time? Oh, to go shopping? Well, why didn't you say so! You did the right thing choosing to bring him with you! The Great Mammon knows all the best shops in town, let him take care of it all, you don't have to worry about a thing!

✧He can and will drag you to the shops he frequents while claiming he knows where all the high grade goods are, and he isn't lying when he said that. By the end of the trip you're both buried under paper bags of everything you bought. It'll take Mammon a while to realize how much you actually spent and how little money he had to use

✧He'll be more ecstatic than surprised about you being rich since he'll definitely make you his new personal wallet. How he coerced you into agreeing is a mystery to both you and him but hey, as long as he can splurge whenever he wishes he has no complains! He doesn't call himself The Great Mammon for nothing, as the name suggests, someone as great as him deserves high-quality goods!

✧This man acts like he's buying when in reality he's wasting your money, not his

✧He's been waiting for the auction of the new Ruri-chan figure to start since last night, MC! What was so important that you had to drag him all the way out here-- eh? You wanted to go shopping with him? He's quite surprised that you asked him to go with you but doesn't really mind because it means he'll be alone with you for a while without his meddling brothers. He's fine with it as long as you both visit the shop he frequents--

✧Hold on-- MC, why did you empty the shelves?! Did you really just buy all the figurines they have on display?! H-huh? It's for him?

✧He's surprised at the beginning, baffled at the fact that you can spend that much money without even batting an eye to how much the bill will be but then again he's the type to spend excessively on a Ruri-chan figure so who is he to judge? Knowing that you're rich doesn't really change much except maybe if you choose to spoil him regardless of his protests

✧He won't outright admit that he's thought of taking advantage of your seemingly endless wealth. Think of all the merch he can buy! He might even be able to buy subscriptions to his favorite games and support his favorite streamers and not have to pay a single coin..... Just a thought, though. Just a thought!!

✧How did you manage to find an original copy of a limited edition human world book that's been taken out of circulation decades ago? No, the better question would be, if you did somehow find a legitimate copy, how were you able to afford it? He's been itching to get his hands on one for years, yet you were able to obtain it this easily?

✧Why is the cat cafe you both planned on visiting devoid of customers? Perhaps it's closed today-- huh? You rented the place so you could both enjoy playing with the cats without being disturbed? When did you do that-- how did you manage that?

✧He's not that surprised when he found out, he figured you have a lot of money at your disposal since you've been recklessly splurging and probably unintentionally flaunting your wealth in front of him. Although he doesn't mind you being wealthy, he's more curious about your lifestyle back in the human world. He's read a few books about humans who're born with a golden spoon, do you have the same lifestyle?

✧He won't take advantage of your wealth but will sometimes ask if you can aid him financially. Secretly hopes you rent out the cat cafe again so you can both enjoy the entire afternoon alone with your feline friends

✧When you asked him to go shopping with you, he was so excited! With his brothers always hogging up all of your time, he's ecstatic to finally have you all to himself even if only for a couple hours. He'll make sure he makes the most of it, will drag you to all of his favorite shops and buy you lots of-- huh? You bought everything..? Without even looking at the items on display?

✧He knows humans tend to splurge but did they always spend this lavishly? Ah, no matter, that doesn't mean he can't spoil you! At least now you can both spoil each other with extravagant gifts! Oh, how exciting!

✧He probably won't be that surprised. Thinks it's better that you're wealthy enough to not care about the bill 'cause this way you'll both inevitably buy mountains of gifts for the other. Plus you'll both get to indulge in high-quality designer brands together!

✧With this new discovery, he never fails to drag you with him to go shopping for new clothes, accessories, make-up products or personal items. He knows all the hot trends and best brands in the Devildom so leave everything to him, he'll have your closet and vanity stuffed full of designer brands and have you looking glamorous in no time! No need to worry about always following trends though, he'll make sure to help you set new ones!

✧One way to flaunt your wealth to him is by buying him all the food he could ever want, and even then he wouldn't notice how much money you spend daily. He probably thinks most humans usually spend lavishly and go on with his everyday life

✧He doesn't really care much whether you're wealthy or not so when he found out that you're rich, he didn't exactly have much of a reaction. Thinks it's neat that you can just buy whatever you want whenever you want

✧He finally gained interest when you rented out an entire place for the day, whether it's a restaurant or an event hall, the fact that you're able to do that surprised him. It's short-lived but hey, you at least managed to get a reaction out of him

✧You pulled him away from the comforting embrace of his bed just to go on a shopping spree..? If you're buying stuff for yourself then you shouldn't have picked him to go with you-- what? You want to spoil him? Then buy him a new comfortable pillow, comforter, blanket, oh and add a new pillow case to the list as well. Some new apparel, and maybe matching outfits (onesies) for you and him, don't forget about that!

✧Some day his and Beel's shared room will be stuffed full of gifts from you. Looks all smug in front of his brothers whenever he's wearing or carrying around something you bought him. He wasn't the least bit surprised when he found out you're rich, probably hummed in response so you'd know he was listening before carrying on with his day

✧Doesn't mean he won't ask you to buy him stuff though. He's not all that interested with designer products, but he does have a few things he wants to own so obviously he'll go to you and somehow make it seem like you want to buy it for him instead

[jessepinwheel]

so about Anakin calling Rex... does he pick up? Does he want to help Anakin? How long has it been since they've talked? Do Rex's brothers get super protective when they hear that Anakin called? I would love to see how that plays out if you're ever interested in writing it.

well at this point we already know the answer was no but sure I can elaborate

** Direct message to CT-7567 **

<CT-6116> rex’ika

<CT-6116> guess who showed up on my day off

* CT-6116 has sent an attachment: 217653.hol

<CT-7567> fuck off kix

<CT-7567> you’re kidding

<CT-7567> who ratted out our address

<CT-6116> no idea

<CT-6116> what should I do with your general he’s just kind of standing there

<CT-7567> hes not my general

<CT-7567> just ignore him

<CT-7567> maybe he’ll go away

<CT-6116> sorry are we talking about the same skywalker? he’ll just sit on our doorstep until jesse gets home

<CT-7567> good

<CT-7567> let him

<CT-7567> jesse can kick his ass

<CT-7567> he’s been wanting to do that for months

<CT-6116> no!!! nobody’s getting murdered right outside my apartment!

<CT-7567> then get rid of him!

<CT-6116> how????

<CT-7567> idk

<CT-7567> sounds like a you problem

<CT-7567> bet you wish you were on alderaan right now

<CT-7567> good thing I’m taking a few extra days here :)

<CT-6116> rex are you serious

<CT-6116> did you know he was coming???

<CT-7567> oh look breha needs me for something :)))

<CT-6116> no

<CT-6116> don’t you kriffing dare

* CT-7567 is now Away (”have fun kix!”)

<CT-6116> rex get back here!

* CT-7567 is Away: have fun kix!

<CT-6116> kriff you

<CT-6116> you’re the worst

<CT-7567> ;)

<CT-6116> see if I ever do anything nice for you again

Kix waits for Rex’s response, but Rex seems to be gone for real now, like the filthy deserter he is. It must be so nice, to be out on Alderaan and see the nice mountains and be around so many brothers and play strip sabacc and gossip with the queen. They even have an honest-to-goodness clone-run medcenter over there now, and Kix would know--Pip’s been insufferable about it in the medic chat for weeks.

Kix sighs and closes out of the chat window, then peeks out the front blinds. Skywalker’s still out there, milling around outside their front door. Apparently, he’s got nothing better to do than to bother a bunch of clones he’d left behind months ago. What’s changed? What’s new? Why now?

Whatever it is, it’s probably nothing good.

It’s tempting to take Rex’s advice and simply ignore Skywalker. After all, this isn’t a conversation he wants to have on his day off and he’s not the person Skywalker wants to see anyways. If he goes out there and talks to Skywalker, there’s no guarantee Skywalker won’t just come back at a later date, so what’s the point?

Well, the threat of Jesse committing homicide on the doorstep is very real, unfortunately, and Kix is at least trying to get their deposit back at the end of the lease. A thankless and probably hopeless task to be sure, but it means he can’t leave Skywalker out there.

Kix goes to brew himself a bracing cup of caf. He can afford to stall--Jesse won’t be back for another six hours, and he deserves the time to prepare himself for whatever nonsense is incoming. Maybe it’s petty to make Skywalker wait, but it’s been six months. Turnabout is fair play.

He stacks a caf dripper and filter on top of a mug and gets out the nice stuff, the stuff Rex’s boyfriend had brought over a few months back that he’s not supposed to drink. The smell hits him full in the face as he measures it out, rich with toasty and slightly sweet undertones. It’s parsecs beyond anything he ever gets from the university medcenter’s break room and way too nice of a drink for Rex, who likes the simpler things--it’s why he hasn’t finished the bag after all this time, and yet the selfish bastard refuses to share because Kenobi got it for him.

Well, Kix thinks as he pours boiling water over the grounds, what’s Rex gonna do about it? Stop him from having and appreciating a good cup of caf? He’s in Alderaan eating cookies with the queen and gossiping about his boyfriend. He can afford to give his beleaguered tired brother a couple cups of decent caf.

He watches black liquid drip down through the filter and tries to gather his thoughts. Tries, because in the end, he doesn’t have all that many. He’s not angry at Skywalker the way Jesse is. He’s not even bitter about being left behind or upset about not getting so much as a goodbye.

You don’t say goodbye to a blaster before you throw it away, after all.

His caf filters all the way through, and Kix sets the dripper aside to take a sip. It’s the best caf he’s had since the last time he stole Rex’s caf--he really should ask Rex where his boyfriend got it. He lets himself enjoy it for a minute or two, then goes to face the music.

He pulls open the door and Skywalker is there, tall as ever. His hair’s longer now, and he’s not wearing Jedi robes anymore for obvious reasons. He looks like he’s had a few long nights, but that’s really not Kix’s problem right now.

“Skywalker,” Kix says.

Skywalker does a bit of a double-take, then says, “Kix.”

So Skywalker remembers his name. That’s a good start. “What do you want?”

“I...I wanted to talk?”

“Rex isn’t here,” Kix says. “He doesn’t want to talk to you, and frankly, neither do I.”

Skywalker frowns. “You--what?”

Kix takes a long sip from his caf. “Did I stutter? I don’t want to talk to you. Get out of here.”

“Kix, you can’t just kick me out, I came out all this way just to--to see how you’re doing, and--”

“Then you should’ve called ahead,” Kix says. “Skywalker, if you’ve got something to say, say it now. This is the first day off I’ve had in three weeks and I’m not spending it talking to you.”

Skywalker makes a few abortive stammering noises, then says, “I don’t get it. Why are you mad at me? I didn’t--I didn’t do anything!”

“Why do you think I’m mad at you?”

“Of course you’re mad! You’re kicking me out and I haven’t even said anything!”

“I’m mad because I don’t want to talk? Is that how it works?” Kix takes another sip of his caf. “Were you mad when you stopped talking to anyone in the 501st?”

“I--” Skywalker grimaces. “Is that what this is about? You’re upset because I was gone?”

“You weren’t gone, Skywalker. You left.”

“What is this? I’m not allowed to have my own life? The Jedi weren’t right for me! I had to leave, do things on my own--it was important, Kix. You get that, don’t you?” Skywalker says. “But you’re still important to me, too. We’ve been through a lot together. You’re my--you’re my men.”

“We were,” Kix says. “But we’re not yours anymore. We own ourselves. We’re people, Skywalker, and you won’t take that from us again.”

“Again? What--Kix, of course you’re people, you’ve always been people! You chose your own names and fought and died alongside each other--what are you even saying?” Skywalker says, his eyes wide. “I’d never take that from you, I’m not some kind of slaver. I care about you--all of you.”

“Yeah?” Kix says. “Is that why you haven’t visited the 501st once since the war ended? Is that why you left Rex alone when he needed a friend to get him through his surgery and finding a new place to be? Is that why you’re skulking around on my doorstep even though I’ve told you to leave?”

“Kix, look, I’m sorry, I just--I was going through things, maybe I should have done things differently, but--”

“You don’t have to explain yourself to me,” Kix says. “You got us out of your life when you left six months back, and it doesn’t really matter if you got rid of us like people or like things.”

“You’re not things!” Anakin says. “Why would you say all this? You’re people, you always have been!”

Kix closes his eyes and sighs deeply.

The fact is, they’re clones. Biological hardware, biological software--either of which could be wiped and replaced at the Kaminoans’ say-so. They’re military equipment, just like mass-produced blasters, functionally interchangeable and equally disposable. Decommissioning and reconditioning are just medical procedures, and Kix knows every step of restoring a clone to factory standard. It’s not even that hard--the process has been optimized over so many generations of trial and error, and it’s simple to identify the broken parts, replace them, and put everything back together. They’re biological machines, and repaired in just under a tenday--the miracle of modern science. He’s done it several times since starting medical track. Every clone medic has.

Kix and every single one of his brothers know they’re not machines. They’re not things, they’re living creatures with thoughts and feelings. They love and hurt and cry and laugh and none of it mattered at all because if the person who holds your life in their hands believes you are a thing, you will die like a thing.

When Kix was in the war, he thought Skywalker had made him and the 501st people--flesh and blood and soul, not just military hardware. He’d talked to them, after all, and listened to what they had to say. He’d been there and made jokes and helped them run the Resolute, slotting in as easily as any brother could. He’d commanded them the best he could and mourned when they died, and that was all Kix could really ask for. It was nice, to be a person.

But then the war ended, and Skywalker left. It hurt then, but not as much as it hurt when they went out into the wider world and found out what it really meant to be people. To have people listen to them talk about things they cared about. To have people want to spend time with them even though they could do anything else. To be liked not for their skills with a blaster but for the small things they’d learned for themselves, the small niches they’d carved for themselves. To not be treated like a tool.

Out in the galaxy, there were so many people who, given the chance, could look at a face that was grown in a tube, one that was identical to that of a dead man’s and hundreds of thousands of other clones, and still see a person.

Kix opens his eyes and looks Skywalker in the face. “A part-time person isn’t a person, Skywalker. We’re not people only when it’s convenient for you. You didn’t want us when you had no more use for us, and that’s fine--we did good work when we had to, like we were built to. The war’s over and we’ve had enough time to think and make our own choices, so we decided we didn’t want you anymore, either.” He steps back into the apartment. “Don’t come back here. Rex doesn’t want to talk, and a lot of the others are even less happy about you than I am.”

“Wait!” Skywalker says, shoving his hand in the doorway before Kix can close it. “You can’t just end it like this--there’s got to be some way to fix this, what do I need to do--”

Kix sighs. He’s not angry at Skywalker the same way he’s not angry at the Kaminoans, the same way he’s not angry at the ocean storms or blaster fire or the droid armies. It’s not a kind of violence he can change--only reduce the harm of and get away from when he can. He only has so much energy, and he has to spend it on what’s important--his brothers and his work.

He heard Skywalker’s announcement of his marriage and his renouncing the Jedi Order as loveless, oppressive, and hypocritical. He was there when Rex got his chip taken out, and the only non-clones in the recovery room were his boyfriend and the Commander. He’s spoken to brothers from other battalions and seen how much their Generals cared, and still care. He’s visited the 501 District on Alderaan and seen how everything still goes deathly quiet when Skywalker’s name gets mentioned.

He’s not angry, but he certainly feels something. Resentment, maybe, or just plain tired.

“You hurt my brothers,” Kix says. “If you want to fix anything, start there.”

He’s a medic. He knows not everything can be fixed.

Kix shuts the door and goes to make another cup of caf.

[aueua]

🖊+any of ur Among Us OCs

alright so

I have sixteen (16) where twelve of them are the main cast of colors and are quite tight-knit, but then I wound up making two more as sole-impostors and another two more as a result of scribbl.io-esque shenanigans (and even two more after that based off of pets which’d make that eighteen because I was a teensy bit off the rails)

content warnings: blood, illness, (???) it’s among us so I’ll just say take caution when going through *** For the doodles at the very bottom of this post: Body Horror.

the one that the randomizer chose was one of the said impostor ones [TB] and I’ll just. share some documents I made (that were primarily for roleplay, therefore their very... uh... hm... bland nature). where if you feel like reading those for whatever reason, here’s the only few good ones: Purple (Eys), and #FFFFFF (TB).

-

(Crossposting directly off of a discarded ask blog I once attempted to run.)

Foremost. With my verse, the crewmates are all simulated codes of data (with… feelings). They are not in a “real” scenario of having all individual, proper backstories where an impostor comes aboard their crew one way or another. They are all well aware of the fact they are not real as they happen to be “player avatars” at times.

They do not know how many games they have been through, but treat them as having gone through more than enough situations that they no longer care for any actual murder and are in a happy intermission after things are said and done. (Such situations can include custom rulings  and whatnot. Think of “hide and seek” and “one word per meeting” type of things.)

This being mostly to... well... allow me to develop the muses in various ways because I enjoy all sorts of interpretations and whatnots (and MAYBE just MAYBE I’m incomparably lazy when having to think up legitimate Real Life Coherent backstories for characters). Also I am a clown and like to dance with the very many cool possibilities for alien shenanigans.

-

That said! All of the main expeditors I hold thus have had the opportunity to get into the groove of the simulations (aka “when you first play” versus “how you are now after 200+ hours”). By all means, none of them were required to stay with any of those they’ve met, and they’ve all had met different crews beforehand (where some were in more drastic/toxic environments than others but what’s new to that huh).

I won’t get into all of them and will be focusing more on the dynamic of my Hol (Black, Medic) and their mentor TB (the Impostor Doc in question) ‘cause I think that one’s fun.

Compensation TB and “in-training” Hol doodles as reference in case you didn’t want to look at the document (which honestly, same).

・ While Hol now is more reserved and less socially inept (mostly just Dog-Tired), at first they were simply... awkward. Very awkward. Starting off, all they were aware of was they needed to assist and step in when any mishaps occur, but not to any extreme extent just yet since they needed a bit more experience with interacting and harmonizing among crews.

・TB happened to be on the crew that Hol met first, and while its interest was a “Ah, a fellow professional.” at best, it had shifted accordingly when Hol managed to get over their nerves enough to at least say hello. Converse with them. (Which it found odd-funny, since normally it’s the one that initiates interactions even for those in the same field as it.)

・ It was kind of nice, you know. Getting to indulge those questions that they don’t normally get to answer to a length where someone would understand. And a part of it was at least aware that the other needed more hands-on experience because. TB may have taken possession of the body they have now, but they kept a lot of the sentiments (and memories, unfortunately) of the former host that was also... incredibly socially inept, but endearing in any sincere attempt to talk to others.

・ I won’t get entirely into it but it’s essentially a mentor/friend relationship. That’s it. That’s the whole thing. Except it’s like a slowburn fic where I’ve omitted more than half of the information.

・ But TB also has watched over this younger impostor that came aboard some time ago (horrifically named DH for... yes... Demon Horns... and together... TBDH is To Be Darn Honest...) that has one of the most annoying and frustrating personalities to work with where it has to insist in brief and intimidating ways not to get in the way of its own goals (which is learning more about humans, whether that mean alive or dead but mostly alive because that’s when they’re most interesting).

・ Short story: DH kinda disregarded that and kinda put Hol in harms way and kinda then resulted in an impromptu “Let’s learn more about the anatomy of at least one Impostor, shall we?”

・ Other tidbits: TB has 100% outed itself as an impostor/alien to Hol at some point in the long verse of intermission, but then proceeded to go, “Ask any questions! It’ll be fun!” (And it’s also taken care of Hol in the instances where they had taken on impostor attributes as well...)

・ TB’s essentially the whole reason Hol’s more nonchalant about impostors and in the way they’d compromise the safety of the crew at times in their interest of learning more about them.

・ tl;dr doctor meet medic and they platonically hold hands and learn things together and about each other! zomg!

now for a bonus short thing I wrote mid-December:

“Tea? Hnm… it isn’t for everyone…” Their eyes had drifted for a moment as they considered something, looked up. It didn’t need to see under that mask and visor to know that there was a faint smile in the way they had asked,  “Did you want to give it a try?”

And it wasn’t always fond of tea, no. The thought of consuming anything for luxury other than the deceased was wholly appealing. What could smell nicer than a properly inspected cadaver? But, it could not turn down their little offer. It couldn’t deny it if it wanted to fit the disguise as crew. As far as its recollection goes however, it had always been bland—more boring than water—and was ultimately overly-glorified regardless of how impeccably-proclaimed it was brewed. But again. Would it ever deny spending more time with their beloved medic? No. So be it; they’d use tea as an excuse, every different little thing tied with a memory.

The one that was weirdly spicy-cold to its many tongues had reminded it of the earnest-warm concern, the way they had looked up at it with fretting hands and murmured apologies accompanied by questions it couldn’t help but humor.

The minty zest of something auburn that reminded it of the unchanging season where they bantered—a ringing airy sound—a light taste of what it would consider mirthful in how their shoulders shook. (Not in fear, not in anger; that, it had duly noted.)

The bitter boiling nothing remembered where they had soon fallen silent, asleep, but for longer than usual even with it watching over them in their little spot like they always had. Tasteless, without the fond familiar company it always looked forward to.

The water, it made, when they were no longer among its crew in the instances. When it could no longer remember the process of how to make Hol’s favorite tea, or so it lied and led itself to believe, the strange aftertaste of a hollow spacious quiet remained.

It never liked those memories.

and now here’s your compensation doodles for going through all of that nonsense! like. a handful of the ones I never posted.

(that’s not DH that’s Blue a different impostor entirely)

(that’s DH.)

CONTENT WARNING:

Blood Body Horror.

(no, really)

(I’m adding more bullet points in case it makes it any easier to look away)

(that’s DH. get  clowned on, DH.)

(I like gore and horror even if I’m not the greatest at it so Y’know...)

[taekooktimeline]

Ask

Kayla will focus more on the latest VCR’s while Sara will do so on the one where TK appear under a blue light.

Kayla: Hello! 💜I miss questions like this🥺thank you so much for submitting it, and that means a lot that you appreciate hearing our interpretation of things💜I loved this question so much🥰

Before I start, as always, please keep in mind this is simply my interpretation of things! ☺️

I agree both VCRs seem to heavily hint to deeper things with taekook. Let’s start with Jungkook’s “my time”. He has said consistently this song is about his lost childhood and growing up in the spotlight. However, I do personally think there’s a secondary meaning. I understand some are sensitive to analyzing songs, and no not every song in a member’s solo discography is directed to his lover, but here’s what made me pause - the chorus - “I can’t call ya/hol’ ya” and then, at the end, it changes to “I will call ya/I will hol’ ya”. It fits his struggles in the spotlight - the inability to reach out due to multiple difficulties (busy schedule, saesangs, etc) and eventually he is able to reach out, call, touch. In this instance, the chorus could be considered towards relationships, like a special someone. I don’t normally like Quora, but Helen Xu, an interactor on the site, is very insightful and has said something I agree with. She directly answered a question about “my time”. Below are snippets but I highly encourage reading the entirety of her answer here - https://www.quora.com/Do-you-think-My-Time-by-BTS-Jungkook-is-about-himself-I-respect-and-trust-BTS-what-they-say-but-I-can-t-help-but-feel-that-this-song-is-for-his-significant-other-I-really-hope-so-tho-because-I-love-that-for-him-but 

Keeping in mind this, we can examine the VCR a little more closely. Jk looks at a lot of clocks on the walls.

But only a handful are singled out and on a nightstand close by him. For me, this indicates great importance to these specific clocks.

One I am still working on figuring out is the one to the far left of Jk, right behind the phone. I can’t determine if it says 3:09 or 3:10. If it says 3:09… that’s very interesting, as it’s Yoongi’s birthday. Keep in mind, Yoongi wrote letters to only taekook in 2018 that, in Tae’s own words, made him cry for 10 mins. The members joked Jk’s letter must be a “copy paste” of Tae’s, meaning the same letter:

Jk singled out both Tae’s character, Tata, and Yoongi’s character, Shooky, to be the ones supporting Cooky directly in the ring for his 2020 B21 skit.

If the clock truly says 3:09, this is the second time Jk has directly singled out Yoongi in 2020, as well as Tae when factoring the other clock. Disclaimer - Please note this part is shaky since I can’t determine the time enough to feel confident. 

But what we can deduce - as a lot noticed, 2 of the 3 clocks next to Jk show his birthday, 9/1 - 9:01, and Tae’s 12/30 - 12:30.

The fact these are singled out from the other clocks and are closest to Jk imply to me great importance to him. He picks up the third clock closest to him.

This one has the time - zero o’clock. He holds it up and smiles at it, as if he’s embracing the new time.

Zero o’clock is about starting a new day and forgetting what troubles you. For me …factoring in the two clocks being placed in a prominent position (denoting Tae’s and Jk’s birthdays) + Jk then performs “my time” right after + my suspicions that align with Helen Xu, that the song has a secondary (hidden) meaning …for me, this indicates Jk has found his time. His time has come, he’s ready/at peace and he’s welcoming it. He’s leaving his former struggles behind and will live more freely, less restricted. 

The other part of the VCR was very interesting. Only Taekook paint their faces in black. I spoke to a few different people, who were firm that painting oneself with black indicated stigma, sin, being different, in their culture. It can also be viewed as their shadow, as BTS have discussed this extensively. Tae covers his eye while Jk covers his mouth. This reminded me of “see no evil, hear no evil” in the sense their differences/“sins” are not seen or spoken about by society. Society chooses to ignore what they’ve tried to show and say.

Jk paints his mouth black while Tae paints his eye.

After, both smirk.

For me, this indicates they’re embracing their shadow/difference. They are not bothered any further by society closing their eyes and mouths to their stigma. They have come to terms with it. They will no longer hide in their shadows/darkness. 

They also showed the shadow closing on Tae (going backwards, reverse effect, not fully closing since the door still opens for him) and the light opening on Jk - parallels of each other, and again, they are the only two with this symbolism.

What I find very interesting out of all of this is how taekook are singled out as different from the group. There is a reoccurring pattern. We saw it at MAMA 2019. Both were in blue light then, based on standing order, both were in black. (As a side note - i couldn’t find a capture that encompassed Jin in the below blue/red light):

The others are in white while Taekook are black, still hidden, in their shadow. 

We then saw them be singled out as different again in the On MV. Both were the only ones that had thorns, Tae’s on his neck and Jk’s around his wrist.

Thorns also can be symbolic of sin, just like the black paint in the VCR:

Jk even says he was cast out of society for being different.

My personal thinking which isn't necessarily applicable to the VCRs and heavy hinting: a taekook subunit is coming by the end of the year. We’ve said this consistently since about the spring, as noted in the main timeline, based on the first few vlives, some festa promo shoots and the order of the festa board.

There have been some other, more recent, indicators, but this has been my consistent stance - 1) Taekook 2) Yoonmin + Jin 3) Hobi and Joon. We’ll see! I know some have a differentiating opinion on this based on the BTS YT live with two subunits, not three + photo cards but my stance remains the same from spring. And if you disagree it’s ok! It’s only theory- it can be wrong or right. In asks I feel safer theorizing more freely since we don’t have to place as much importance on being “right”. Either way, even if I’m incorrect on the other subunit pairings, I still think Taekook will be a unit. 

BH is working to normalize - to some degree - TK after years of restricting on camera interactions. Part of normalizing, for some, will be a subunit. I feel strongly it’ll happen for that reason. Whether it’s on a BTS album, or KTH1 or JJK1, I’m not sure. But I think by December or, at the latest January, the subunit will happen on one of those three (if it doesn’t happen in November for BE). 

But I want to make it clear … I don’t think singling out Taekook from the group is solely for their subunit. Whether the subunit is on the BTS album or a mixtape, I feel very strongly we are getting one. But the reoccurring pattern of showing them as different from the other five members, with symbolisms of shadow/stigma/sin (and now embracing that)... to me indicates something even bigger is possibly brewing. I’ve got a lot of mixed thoughts I’m sorting through regarding the company’s stance right now so some of that conflicts and I just need to see in time where things go. 

Please remember this is merely MY opinion / theory on this topic, which is subjective and open to individual interpretation. If I’m wrong, I’m wrong :) theory is theory for a reason and I know some disagree on the subunit part (so please don’t flood the asks with stances - I know this is a varied opinion💜😅). All we can do is wait. 

——————————

Sara: I´ve never paid too much thought to concert VCR´s because I wasn't sure if they had enough substance...but now as I pondered I'm quite excited to share my findings. We all know Taekook were the only ones to have a blue light casted over them right? Well, this is extremely important and I’ll tell you why. 

BTS have made references to the blue & red pill dilemma from matrix on multiple occasions, the first time that I recall being in their MV for “N.O.” where they take the red pill & fight the system.

In sum, if you take the red pill you face the harsh reality while if you take the blue pill you stay in a dream-like illusion, a fake and perfect one. In the music video for “Shadow” you can see Suga singing on top of the scenario covered in blue light while everyone filmed him. This is his persona. The persona, for psychiatrist Carl Jung, was the social face the individual presented to the world—"a kind of mask, designed on the one hand to make a definite impression upon others, and on the other to conceal the true nature of the individual" = an illusion = blue pill.

  Afterwards, his shadow that was hidden among the crowd takes over and everything turns red as he faces his true hidden self = harsh reality = red pill.

What is the shadow? In short, the shadow is the unknown side. The shadow represents all the personal traits we have ignored, denied, or cut off from ourselves. Because one tends to reject or remain ignorant of the least desirable aspects of one's personality, the shadow is largely negative. There are, however, positive aspects that may also remain hidden in one's shadow (especially in people with low self-esteem, anxieties, and false beliefs). Being LGBTQ would fit into this last case as it’s not negative in nature. Jung’s concept is that the aim of one’s life, psychologically speaking, should be not to suppress or repress, but to come to know one’s other side, and so both to enjoy and to control the whole range of one’s capacities; i.e., in the full sense, to “know oneself.” That process is called “individuation” and a necessary step is to become aware of the shadow and integrate it’s hidden aspects into the consciousness.

At first the blinking blue light suffocates Tae who can be seen suffering, running around and hugging himself. Something in his interior wants to be set free.

At the end of the VCR Tae is finally standing calmly as he faces his truth, accepting it (red) -

That’s what Sinclair does in the book “Demian” that BTS based their series “Wings” on. He recounts his experiences with the two realms, two worlds of which he was aware at the time—one of darkness, and one of light, one of day and one of night. The realm of day was everything "good", straight, and Christian. The realm of night was the world of scandal and mystery, drunkenness and murder, deceit and illegal activity. The realm of light was the world of Sinclair's parents and sisters. Though living in the realm of light, he was curious about and attracted to the realm of darkness. He was tempted by Demian, who acted like an inner voice leading him to self-discovery and individuation. In the Below pic the black ink represents temptation and “sin”. Jk takes it to his mouth (in this 2016’s trailer for the Wings tour, other members use different symbolism like sinful apples, blindfolds, curtains, etc).

Jk takes a taste of this world of darkness in BS&T. The world of the previously unknown and denied shadows.

Dialogue from “Demian” that played in this scene from BS&T: “He too was a tempter. The evil world with which I no longer wanted to have anything to do”. The balloon is let go which represents lost innocence - surroundings covered in red.

As I said, the shadow is not always inherently negative, but it’s always perceived as such by either society, the individual, or both. The intro for “Wings” was “Boy Meets Evil”. When the lyrics give into the temptation the walls are painted red.

When performing this song in MAMA 2016 we can see the two realms on opposite sides. When we mix them we get a purple color representing the whole, the dichotomy of human nature (which tormented Sinclair until he accepted himself).

What are they trying to convey with this picture below?

Well, other members are letting their shadows be seen, but Taekook are showing us their carefully drafted public persona, hiding their truth. All of them do this to some extent, but this image implies Taekook’s real self drastically contrasts with the illusion that they create by wearing their masks. They have to conceal more than the rest, even if they already accepted themselves.  What you see is a pretty lie = blue. They only show us their “good” side. Just like “Fake Love’s” lyrics (a song directed to army): “Mold a pretty lie for you”, “Try to erase myself and make me your doll”.  Also, In Singularity Tae sings about silencing his voice and trapping himself into a frozen BLUE lake.

He wears a mask. The red part of his head (shadow, hidden truth) has an earring that reads “loved”. Forbidden, secret love?

Yoongi recently talked about this topic while In The Soop. He said that he talked with Bang pd nim and that, if someone has to do it (for a greater good), he himself would choose the red pill. He would sacrifice. The matrix is an ongoing theme.

About the latest VCR’s where TK have black paint, I basically agree with Kayla. They were introducing the shadow-themed section of the concert so every member was portraying the shadow in different ways but it’s definitely interesting that Taekook represented the shadow with the exact same symbolism put back to back - arguably the most visually impactful out of them - placed near the end of the VCR as it reaches it’s peak in intensity before slowly falling into quietness again. Taekook share a common aspect of themselves that is considered negative and carries a stigma and therefore - as their blue public colors indicate - is part of their red hidden shadow. They really highlighted Taekook’s scenes, so it indicates their shadow is of greater significance. It’s a bigger deal. As mentioned earlier, the black ink is related to sin.

Now JK’s VCR that introduced his song. “My time” by Jk is certainly about his crazy life while growing up in the spotlight. It’s not only about his lost childhood, but also about a “limited love”, losing the capacity to love freely during his teens and beyond. The chorus - the part of the song that delivers the main message - sings about a relationship with many physical limitations. The chosen words are pretty romantic: hold, touch, etc (discard fans as it’s a personal song). Since we talk about the spotlight, it can be understood that they can’t do those things while having eyes on them. He says “happy that we met each other” so it’s not about his family. He’s waiting for “the time” they’ll be able to love freely which he has promised will come (“I will hold ya and you know”). If we take the previous VCR’s into account it’s quite suspicious that Taekook’s clocks are placed right next to each other in the most important spot angle-wise. It does seem like a connection between Jk’s song and Taekook. 

What does all this ultimately mean? What’s the purpose of showing these hints? Well, not sure. Could be related to them coming out in the future and finding their time to live their lives as a couple without pretending, taking off their masks and revealing their truth. For the time being a TK subunit would be neat though :P 

[junosartsthetic]

In the Morning

Y’all gotta read till the end to find out who this is about. Bonus points if you figure it out beforehand. Also I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.

It was rather early. That much you knew. Your eyes remained closed, bare body still as the form behind you shifted. 

Would he leave? Just up and vanish after last night? You weren’t sure, but you wouldn’t be surprised. It wouldn’t be the first time someone had a one night stand with you. You didn’t mind too much, but after a while you started to wonder if you were unlovable.

His body shifted, and you prepared to hear his footsteps touch the wood floor, but instead arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you in close. His chest was warm and firm. You almost let out a delighted hum. It took you by surprise.

Was he not going to leave yet? Was he not like the others?

You pushed down the butterflies in your stomach. You refused to get your hopes up. Just because he was showing you a little extra care right now didn’t mean he wasn’t planning on leaving soon.

You debated whether or not to alert him that you were awake. It might just scare him off. Embarrass him. You shouldn’t.

Faking a yawn, you slowly raised your arms above your head. 

“Mornin’,” his voice spoke, rough from sleep. His arms tightened around your waist. “Sleep nicely?”

You cleared your throat before replying. “Mmhmm. You?”

He chuckled. “With you cuddlin’ up next to me? I slept like a baby.”

Cheeks flushing, you snorted. You knew you didn’t sleep too gracefully, but whatever.

“You hungry?” you asked, playing with his fingers against your stomach. “You can always stay for breakfast if you want.”

You expected him to avoid the question somehow or make up an excuse. Instead, he responded positively. “Makin’ breakfast for me? Thank ya’ kindly, sweetheart.” He gave the nape of your neck a kiss. “You don’t have to make me nothin’, though. I’m the guest here. How about I make you a homestyle breakfast? How'd ya like your eggs?”

For a split second the word ‘fertilized’ almost slipped out, but instead you cleared your throat swiftly. “Oh, uhh, sunny-side up. But you really don’t have to, I can—”

His arms suddenly shifted, and within moments you were cradled against his chest as his back rested against the backboard. “Oh, no ya don’t,” he said. “You did quite enough already for me, the least I can do is make ya breakfast.”

He pecked your forehead before setting you gently on the bed, getting up. You quickly remembered neither of you were wearing anything. Of course, you couldn’t help your gaze as you blushed furiously. Flashes of last night came back in a rush.

Your whines of pleasure. His low gasps. The way he gripped your hips so nice as he ground his—

You snapped out of it when he slipped on his boxers, discarding his other clothes. You quickly got out of bed, following him while throwing on your silk robe.

You wandered into the kitchen, noticing his cowboy hat was now on his head as he rutted through your fridge. You tilted your head as he did so, paying close attention to his back muscles moving and the curve of his—

“D’ya want anythin’ besides eggs? I don’t wanna waste all yer food, but I can make some mean bacon and sausage.”

Currently, there was only one sausage on your mind, but you let out a hum of agreement nonetheless. “Oh, make whatever you’d like. I can grab out some things too. Lemme help.”

You opened one of your cabinets, sights set on your frying pan. Sadly, your short stature made it rather hard to grab. Usually, you’d simply climb on the counter but you didn’t want to embarrass yourself.

A body soon pressed against yours, his hand resting on your shoulder while the other easily grabbed the pan you were looking for. Your eyes scanned his bicep and forearms as he did so. His large fingers gripped the handle of it, placing it onto the stove and turning on the heat.

And the heat wasn’t the only thing he was turning on. Your chest ached as you remembered how well he was able to maneuver your body, fingers fitting inside your—

He cracked an egg with one hand, dropping it into the frying pan. “Where’s yer trash can, sweetheart? I don’t wanna set this on the counter.”

You scurried to open the drawer where your trash can was, watching as he tossed in the cracked shells with ease. In moments, the pan was full of eggs simmering, the smell pleasant in your nose.

“Do ya have any coffee? I could use a cup a joe. I’m worn out.”

Your mouth opened to prompt why he was worn out, but quickly shut it. You supposed both of you were working quite hard last night. Heh.

Simply nodding, you moved over to your Keurig. 

You grabbed a K-cup to began brewing, placing a large white mug underneath it.

“Do you like sugar?” you asked, shaking a sugar packet for yourself.

“Only from you, sweetheart,” he quipped, winking at you before laughing.

A bright red hue dyed your face. You didn’t respond to him, just shaking the packet faster. You opened it, pouring the sugar inside while the coffee was still flowing into the cup so it’ll mix.

Throwing it away, you moved towards the fridge, grabbing the creamer out.

As you poured it into your cup you asked, “do you like cream?” Quickly, you added. “In your coffee, that is.”

He snorted. “I figured. But yeah, Cream and sugar both is fine, hun.”

You began to brew a new cup, now a black mug underneath. Once both cups were brewed and the cream and sugar were mixed in, you set them on the counter table in front of your bar chairs.

Deciding you’d just let him make you breakfast instead of butting in to help, you sat down to wait.

Now, any other person might find waiting boring, but you had something to focus on. 

The man in front of you was like nobody you’d ever met. His shoulder-length sandy blond hair looked nice all messy, structuring his strong jaw line well and whisping down his broad chest and muscled back haphazardly. Not to mention he was a gentleman at the bar where you two first met, and he even made sure you were alright often throughout the night, especially when it came to—

“Alright, soups on, sweetheart,” he said, placing down a plate in front of you. Two sunny side up eggs laid beside strips of bacon. You quickly grabbed the fork beside you and dug in, sipping your coffee intermittently.

Once you finished rather quickly, you simply sat in silence, hands clasped around the mug. You weren’t sure what to say.

He cleared his plate right after you, and luckily prompted conversation so you didn’t have to. “You’ve got a nice place,” he said, glancing about. “I didn’t really pay much attention last night, but now that I get a good look, it’s real pretty. Not as pretty as you, of course.”

Sipping your coffee to hide your red face, you mumbled a thank you. You figured he wouldn’t have been examining your house last night, especially since you’d gone from the front door to your bedroom in the course of about 2 minutes.

“When are you gonna leave?” you asked suddenly. You weren’t sure why you decided to speak your mind now, but it had been simmering in your subconscious ever since you woke up. “Not that I want you to,” you added hurriedly. “It’s just most people would be long gone by now. I wake up alone almost always.”

His eyebrows furrowed, his expression annoyed. “Who the hell is leavin’ ya? They’re bastards and sons-a-bitches. All of ‘em. Anyone leaving a beautiful gal like you alone in the morning is scum.”

“Oh uhh.” You picked at your robe sleeves. “I don’t blame them. I just was curious.”

“Well I do,” he retorted before his brows softened. “If it’s alright with you, sweetheart, I’d like to treat you to a day out. I’ll buy ya somethin’ nice and treat you like a real man should.”

“That’s really kind, but seriously. I’m alright. I shouldn’t have said anything. I didn’t mean to guilt trip you—”

“Oh hush,” he said, standing up and pulling you out of your seat gently by your hands. “Now you go get dressed and shower and such and I’ll do the same. Then I’m takin’ you out.”

You thought about arguing, but decided against it. It would do you some good, and why should you care if he pays? Because you’re nice. But still. Pushing that aside, you wandered back into your bedroom.

After spending a good half an hour getting ready, you two were at your front door.

“Alright-y, just hol’ my hand and follow me, I’ll walk ya to all the best spots around here.”

You did as he said, his large hands fitting nicely around yours.

With that, you two were out the door. You had a smile on your face. This was nice. He was nice.

You suddenly stopped. Wait. He. He, who? What the hell is his name? You didn’t remember! Did he even tell you? How were you supposed to figure it out without sounding rude?

He took note of your frozen stance, panic in your eyes. “You okay, sweetheart?”

“Uhh,” you spoke up, clearing your throat awkwardly. “I’m so sorry, but, what’s your name again?”

He let out a loud laugh. “Holy hell, I guess I never did tell ya’, huh? My mistake.”

He let go of your hand to take off his hat, putting it against his chest. With his other he held out his hand for you to grab. “The name’s Hol Horse, sweetheart. Pleasure to finally introduce myself.”

You placed your hand in his and he kissed the back of it before placing his hat back on his head. “Nice to meet you, Hol Horse,” you said. “Now, where were we?”

You two began to walk once more, hand-in-hand, down the sidewalk. 

[sserpente]

Never lost.

Words: 2917 Warnings: betrayal (see what I did there)

A/N: Surprise! Yes, I did it. In celebration of the last show on Broadway (which surely was as amazing as all the previous ones), I did it--and there is a high chance it won’t be the last Imagine (as long as I don’t get any legal problems for posting Harold Pinter fanfiction in which case I will be taking this down again I’m afraid). This is definitely different from my usual Imagines but it just felt right to build it this way. I really enjoyed writing this, the idea had been ghosting around in my head for months now. I really don’t know if it’s any good but in any case, the you-perspective gives a more intimate and different perspective on Robert’s character, I think. I guess to go in depth properly, I could write an actual play so I hope the dynamic and tension I thought up for this comes across. I haven’t written as many screenplays/scripts as I’ve written stories but without further ado... have fun!

ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER: This Imagine is based on Harold Pinter’s “Betrayal”. I do not own the characters or any occuring elements from the orignal plot. This Imagine is a piece of fan work and was published on this blog solely for non-commercial purposes.

He hadn’t changed. Robert had always been a handsome man and he knew that—in his very own way he did. Your friends hated him. Everything they knew about him was what you had told him. A publisher in his early forties, a father of two children. They told you he was a snob. They even told you he was a little sexist, old-fashioned in terms of marriage and gender order. They had heard he hit his wife. You should have never told them about him. But in the end, it did not change your feelings for him, never. Not after all these years. Well, four. Four years since you had last seen each other. You had decided to move away from London for a while, to meet other men. To get over him, a married man whom you could never have.

Who were you kidding? Emma was cheating on him, she had been for years. You didn’t just think that. You knew it. But Robert hadn’t believed you. Why would he? He was madly in love with Emma. She was funny, she was lively, she was beautiful. Maybe you were too. But in the end, he had chosen her, not you.

So why were you here now, back in London? Why had you picked up your bloody phone and dialled Robert’s number? Had you wanted to prove to yourself that you were over him? That you had moved on and that the handful of men you had slept with over the last four years—brief affairs, nothing serious—had helped you forget about him?

You felt your heart almost leaping right out of your chest when you spotted him. It used to be your favourite pub. Back when you had regularly met, before he got married. Back when he had established himself as a professional publisher along with Jerry and you were a thriving editor and translator in the literature industry. You remembered that in this very pub, at this bar… he had broken your heart into tiny little pieces without even knowing. He had asked you how he should propose to Emma. In fact, you had always thought he would ask for your hand in marriage, sooner or later. You had thought that Emma would end up with Jerry, Robert’s best friend. They had known each other for years. But there was Judith; and Robert claimed he had only introduced him to her when they got married. Perhaps this was just Robert’s wicked way to cope with her betrayal. You were not going to judge. You carried your own bottled up disappointment, fear and rejection.

Robert’s glance was intimidating, daring anyone to question him or his presence in this pub as he ordered two pints. He hadn’t changed. He had told you on the phone. Of his long conversation with Emma, their decision to break up after so many years of marriage. Of her affair with his best friend. She used to be your friend too, before you moved away. Out of a person you longed to despise because she stole a heart meant to fill the empty space in yours became a person you admired for her strength and doggedness. And then she had started seeing Jerry.

Emma had called you the night before you arrived in London. She knew you wanted to meet him. She knew you didn’t know it was over. She had cried about the children and you had hung up.

Robert’s face lit up barely noticeably when he spotted you. It was like spotting an old and beautiful friend. He was scanning you, to see if you had physically changed. You hadn’t. Your perky breasts were the same, as was your face, your height and your weight—except for the bags under your eyes. Exhaustion, lack of sleep, stress, lovesickness. It all tore you apart, one way or another.

“Robert.”

You had missed speaking his name. So much your heart leaped at your mouth forming the sounds. He nodded.

“It’s been a while.”

“A long while.”

Your hug was sincere but a little stiff at first. Again, he nodded, weaker this time.

“Drink?”

“Thank you.”

Was it ironic? You were here, enjoying a drink with an old friend you had once loved—or perhaps still loved if only you were to admit it to yourself—all the while Jerry and Emma were doing the very same.

“How have you been, Robert?”

“Well, you’ve heard.”

“I have. I’m sorry.”

“Sorry for what exactly?”

“You know what.”

“Are you really then?”

“What?”

“Sorry.”

Silence spread between you as you bit your tongue. You were not sorry. If anything, you were glad his marriage was finally over. You shouldn’t be. But the selfish part of you bathed in his desperation. Maybe it was the only reason he had agreed to meet you again.

“She told me on the phone you betrayed her for years.”

“Did she?”

“Did you?”

“No.”

“No.”

You repeated, confirming his words. He had not. You would have known if he had. What your friends thought about him might have rung true to some extent but he never would have cheated on Emma.

Robert looked up, his expression somewhat startled, vulnerable even. Hurt. In fact, you had never seen him as broken as today, almost as if all the pain bubbling right below the surface had now finally broken through a badly healed wound, erupting like a volcano of annihilating emotions. He had thought four years a long time but were they really?

“Of course… not. Look, I might not be the perfect husband. I’ve made mistakes, we all have. But I love her. Or I loved her. Whatever the hell that means.”

“So why did you say it?”

“What?”

“Why did you tell her that you betrayed her for years?”

“Out of… hurt, I suppose. Desperation. I wanted her to suffer as badly as I did. I wanted her to feel the same pain I felt. I don’t know what that says about me, really.”

You paused. It said a lot of things, actually. It said how all that bottled up rage inside him had found a hole to escape through. It said how human he was. It said how your heart had made the right decision to fall for him all these years ago.

Robert had raised his voice and stood from his chair, the pint, half empty, abandoned on the table. With an almost threatening stance, he towered above you. You, of all people, had to understand.

Once more, silence spread between you, tying wires of both anxious and exciting tension between you. For several, torturing seconds, you simple stared each other down, neither willing to blink first until you couldn’t take it anymore and drew your intimidated gaze away from him, facing the ground.

“Did you know who it was?”

He suddenly said. You frowned.

“What do you mean?”

“Did you know who Emma was having an affair with?”

“You’ve known for years.”

“I know but have you known?”

“No. Not at first. I never investigated, you see.”

You spoke the truth. You truly never did. You cared about Robert—not his wife Emma—in the end.

“Then how did you know in the first place?”

“I’m a woman, Robert. I could tell. I could tell by her behaviour.”

And you had told him. That something was not right. That something was off. You paused, hoping he would say what you were too cowardice for. He said it.

“And I never believed you, did I?”

“No. You didn’t.”

Another moment of silence, buzzing between you like electricity—like a broken cable emitting sparks next to a puddle—deadly.

Have you been busy lately?”

Robert hadn’t offered you any coffee, he knew you didn’t drink the black brew. You sat there at the kitchen table with your glass of water while he was pacing up and down the room slowly—threateningly, as if he were to pounce on innocent and unknowing prey like a lion.

He had changed lately. There was a slight bitterness to your conversations with him.

“Well… Jerry has been trying to convince me to publish Spinks.”

“That writer you didn’t like?”

“His books are terrible.”

“No doubt… we’ve always had the same taste when it comes to books.”

“Hmm…”

He paused.

“It’s great to see you again.”

“You too.”

Finally, he sat down with you, smiling. He meant it. You had always been close, simply never voiced it. The thing was… you always listened to each other’s problems. Circumstances like that, they… created a bond. And Robert had always liked the way you made him feel when you were around—that warm, cosy and tingly feeling spreading in his chest.

“Where’s Emma?”

He took a deep breath, looking in your eyes as he spoke. He liked looking at you. You were rather beautiful, after all. Like one of those paintings Emma displayed in the gallery.

“Playground, with the children.”

“I haven’t seen them in a while. They must have grown so much.”

“They have.”

“And Emma and you, how have you been?”

“Fine! As fine as marriage can be, I suppose.”

Biting your lower lip, you took a sip from your water. It wasn’t too cold, just how you liked it.

“Will she be back soon?”

“She should be in an hour or so.”

You nodded.

“I… wanted to talk to you about something.”

Because I thought it would only be fair for you to know… I think, you added silently.

Robert frowned.

“Speak.”

You had started shaking. Your digits were trembling as they held the glass tightly. You could not do this. You had to do this. You were holding on to a cliff. One hand was holding Robert’s, the other was clutching the edge. No matter whom or what you would let go off, you could not win. Were you a decent human being, for doing this?

“I… I believe that she’s cheating on you.”

“Who?”

“Emma.”

“What?”

“She’s cheating on you.”

“No.”

“S-she is.”

He glared at you, anger flashing in his blue eyes as he leaned forward like a predator, like he was going to attack you; verbally, if anything.

“Have you gone mad?”

“No.”

Treacherous tears formed in your eyes. They worsened your sight, transforming Robert into a black dot before you.

“Robert.”

He said nothing.

“Robert, have you been spending a lot of time with her lately?”

“She’s busy.”

“With what?”

“The gallery.”

“What about Thursdays?”

“What?”

“Thursdays. The gallery’s afternoon off.”

He thought about it for a moment.

“You have gone mad.”

“Robert… read the signs.”

“We have children.”

You couldn’t suppress your snort.

“That didn’t stop her.”

Angrily, he glanced at you from the corner of his eye, full of disgust and hatred. Your heart broke.

“Get out.”

“Robert!”

“Get out of my house!”

You remembered it well. It was a chilly autumn day, the Piccadilly line on strike and that homeless guy on the tube wearing only one shoe. It was the last time you spoke before you left London for good. While part of you wished you could have said goodbye differently, the other part knew it had been the right thing to do. It had to have been the right thing to do. Even if you had partially done it for selfish reasons.

Robert was naïve, probably. An affair, right under his nose. His marriage at stake, his family life in danger. Yes, Robert sent you away that night. But it was because he refused to accept the two truths his heart had long welcomed. That letter he read only shortly after proved you had never had the intention to lie to him, or to harm his marriage. One, Emma was betraying him. Two, he was in love with you, too.

You desperately gasped for air. The memory was as painful as your longing for this man before you. Who were you going to fool? You still loved him. He knew. He must have known, always. And he never said anything. Why would he? There was no need to risk anything. Not your friendship, not his relationship with Emma.

Robert gnashed his teeth. His fists were clenching so hard his knuckles turned white. Suddenly, the beer he had ordered tasted repulsive. The people around him bothered him, he longed to scream at the barkeeper for no reason at all. For this was where he had sat with Jerry two days after your departure. No goodbyes, no farewells, no well wishes. He regretted he had never contacted you to make up for it. Come to think of it, he regretted letting you go in the first place.

“Do you know what she said?”

“What?”

“She said that Emma is cheating on me.”

“What? No.”

“I know.”

Did he though?

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“I mean, why would she say that Emma is cheating on you? She must have had a reason. A false suspicion, maybe.”

“I don’t know, actually.”

“Don’t you?”

“Well, I suppose I do.”

“So why?”

“She has always been in love with me, hasn’t she?”

Jerry’s eyes widened, his body stiffening in surprise.

“Who? Emma or (Y/N)?”

Robert paused. When he said nothing more, he took a deep breath.

“Both of them, Jerry.”

Robert blinked.

���I missed you.”

You admitted timidly.

“I know.”

He paused briefly.

“I missed you too.”

“You should go home to your wife.”

“I don’t think I still have a wife.”

He retorted sharply, rubbing his beard absentmindedly. It was gesture which you had always found incredibly sexy. You doubted Emma shared your thoughts.

You were sitting next to each other on the sofa in your hotel room after coming to the decision to leave the pub for good, staring holes into the wall. Robert appreciated your presence, as you did his and yet… neither of you was sure how to behave around the other. The tension was tangible, his knee touching yours ever so slightly.

You couldn’t remember how you ended up on his lap, couldn’t remember how he had started kissing you with such ferocity you ran out of breath within a mere heartbeat. Burying your fingers in his hair, you rocked against him, drinking him in as if you feared to die from thirst if you didn’t.

He had been kidding himself, even mocked you in front of Jerry to stroke his ego for harbouring feelings for him when in truth, it had taken him years to realise why his heart beat faster around you. Why he longed to pull you in his arms and inhale your heavenly scent.

He had stopped feeling this way with Emma even before he learned about the affair, so he came to understand. The sex didn’t feel the same despite his love for his wife. Perhaps he had always known about her disloyalty—perhaps he had known without knowing.

His warm hands sneaked under your thin pullover, exploring your skin with relish. They wandered up almost demandingly when you intensified the kiss, right until he was able to cup your breasts through your bra, eliciting a silent whimper from you.

By the time he pulled away, both of you were out of breath, the quiet hotel room filled with nothing but your panting for a while.

“What are we doing here?”

A few seconds passed before Robert responded.

“Something I should have done with you a long time ago.”

There was no hesitation in his voice—only determination. Perhaps it was only now, in this very moment, that the gravity of last night’s events hit him to the fullest. That his marriage was over. That those feelings he had always had for you were no longer wrong. If you still wanted him. You had kissed him back with a passion but what significance did this hold? He had watched his own wife… ex-wife… having an affair with his best friend for four years, after all.

“Are you seeing someone?”

He had to know. If he dreaded the answer then he would be even more desperate to know. Did it really matter now? Relationships didn’t work this way. So much had been at stake, for such a long time. It felt like a heavy weight had been lifted off of his shoulders, granting him a fresh start. Perhaps with you, he would even give love a second chance. Perhaps those feelings pounding in his heart when you were with him were more than mere sexual lust and a desire for revenge. He might have been in love but he was also unsure; a bit insecure even.

“I’m not. I had affairs. Brief sexual encounters. But I never saw anyone.”

If he told Emma now, he wouldn’t be lying. He had a woman now. A beautiful woman who was sitting on his lap in this very moment. With you, he didn’t feel like he had to talk. You knew what he was thinking. Maybe you had always known—even back when he had kicked you out of his house.

“I’m sorry.”

He felt the urge to say it, knowing you’d know what he meant. You cupped his face in response, your thumbs brushing over his beard; and the weakest of smiles forming on your lips.

“So what do we do now?”

Robert went silent, said nothing for a while. When he looked back up, his blue eyes were glistening with bold conviction as they locked with yours.

“We continue where we left off when we first met.”

A/N: More? Maybe? I’ve got another Imagine swimming in my pond of ideas...

Check out my blog to find more Imagines and take a glimpse at my first (to be) published novel! Also, if you enjoyed this story, I would appreciate so much if you supported me on Kofi! ko-fi.com/sserpente

[shaekingshitup]

Grindin

A/N: EEEPP. This is my first attempt at a reader insert. Reader is always gonna be black. I missed a many of days. Here is the day 3 prompt because I liked this idea! Kind of based off my favorite coffee shop. Maybe I’ll do more for this lil story? 💁🏿 The chime for the door is literally from this song here. 

Summary: Reader goes back home to open a coffee shop and meets a man that stirs some things in her. 

“I love the concept,” you commented, “ I know we were only interested in black and blue originally. But can you do a mock up with gold lettering as well?”

“YAS! THAT! I like THAT! exclaimed Ray

“Already done,” Lulu noted and pulled out a secondary growler mock up from behind the print that you were assessing.

“You know me so well,” you smiled.

“Yeah, your ass is kinda predictable” she smiled back which earned her a tongue out.

This was your first meeting of the month and so far everything was going great. You loved that you could live out your dreams with the two people you trusted more than anyone in the world. Lulu had been by your side since you both realized you were the only two Spelman freshmen who were both from Cali in your class.  By your second semester y’all were so inseparable that everyone thought you were sisters. And by year 2 you were already living together. Thank God y’all had separate interests which kept your friendship and now your business in a healthy and ever growing state. You were engrossed in the world of science. You had been a bio major who often volunteered at the local greenhouse. That helped you establish your small but busy coffee shop a year and a half ago. Lulu was a graphic artist whom also was in charge of all Grindin social media and the unofficial pastry taste tester. Ray had come along when the ladies were rooming together off campus. He was a community college to 4- year transplant at Clark Atlanta but the boy was born and raised in Macon, Georgia and he’d never let you forget it. It was evident that once he met the girls at a mixer in his first week, the friendship was a wrap. That spawned regular visits back to his parents’ homes on the weekends and even some holidays spent in the south. After graduation, the bond never broke. You and Lulu returned to Cali with Ray in tow so that he could use his business degree to help birth Grindin.

You glanced over to Sherell. The Brewista Lead for the morning shift. You knew that Sherell had been strugglin to keep up a healthy sleeping schedule with finals right around the corner and the nerves of her impending graduation from Lincoln. She was a sweet girl and you couldn’t stand to see her bare any more stress. You were so caught up in your thoughts about Sherell that you had missed the very clear topic change amongst your friends.

“Okay, but that nigga’s arms? They biggg. You know what that mean!” sad Ray pointedly at Lulu

“HA” she cackled, “ that don’t mean nothin’. My guy has really soft eyes and you know Y/N loves a guy who is easy on the eyes,” Lu quips

“Bitch, you see the caterpillar above those eyes? We don’t nee her birthin the next Helga Pataki in these streets”

“Ugh” you groaned as you rubbed your temple. “I don’t know how many times we have to have to do this but I do not under any circumstances want you two meddling in my love life,”

“But” they chorused.

“BUT NOTHING! Every human with an assumed penis and who looks like they got more than $150 in the bank becomes a contestant for your little game of ‘Win a Date with Y/N’! I run a coffee shop! Not a dating service. I’m done explaining shit to y’all. Stop harassing my customers and let my ass worry about who I am with! I mean that shit.”

“I told you we should have started addin females to the list,” whispers Ray as you walk over to the counter.

“Raymond Johnson the IV and Eyeluta Nicole Hathaway, if I hear one more word from either of y’all you both gone be banned from any pastries for the rest  of the month” you spat feeling like the unofficial mother of your group yet again. You took a deep breath and continued toward the counter. 

“Sherell, how’s it going?” you asked a you approached the register.

She sighed heavily.

“You know what? You need a break. Go in the back and relax your eyes a bit. I’ll man the front”

“Oh no. It’s really-“

You cut her off. “Get back there and relax a little. I think I know how to run a register,” you winked.

You were on the register and Antwon was pouring at the bar. You two were in a good rhythm. It was either bustling or there was one customer to tend to today. There didn’t seem to be any in between this morning. 

GRINDIN rang out as the next patron entered.

“Welcome!” Antwon called out as you were assessing the stock supply up in the floor.

When you turned around you were met with... Well, you weren’t quite sure how to describe him. Fine was an understatement. Standing six feet tall was a milk chocolate wonder with a physique that his dark turtleneck and three piece suit couldn’t hide.

Keep it professional y/n

Before you could even get a breath out he growled “Y’all really got Clipse playin every time the damn door open?” He said this with his eyes glued to his screen as if looking up was such a difficult feat to conquer at 7:32 a.m.

“Yeah. It’s a signature touch,” you responded to the stranger. At your voice, he looked up and offered a smirk that probably made most women collapse at first sight. You still hadn’t made up your mind though.

“I’m feelin it.”

“Is this your first time here? I’m more than welcome to answer any questions you have about the menu or the store in general” you offered.

“Nah. I’ve been in a time or two before. Never seen you before,” he very openly eyed you up and down, “I normally let my assistant handle this shit though, you know Miss… “

“Y/N. Well, since you’ve been here before then you’re familiar with our unique take on the menu.” you supplied.

“Yeah, y’all rotate teas and coffees quarterly. You seem to keep a few staples- which I ‘preciate and y’all got some corny ass names for these drinks too.”

You bristled a bit at that last part. “There’s nothing wrong with a little creativity.”

“Never said there was, Y/N” At this point you couldn’t tell if you wanted to serve this man or show him the door. You chose the professional route.

“So, what does your assistant normally bring you Mr…?” you trailed off

“Just Erik is fine. My favorite is the single origin. Black.  It’s always the best way to start my day.”

“Mine too.” you smiled. Maybe he isn’t so bad after all

“If you’re into the single origin and you love that bold, black, taste something similar with just a little more sweetness is Brew Thang.”

He chuckled. “See what I be saying about these names? How you expect a grown ass man to order a drink called ‘Brew Thang’?”

“It’s good. Once you have a taste, you won’t have a hard time getting it to roll of your tongue.” you sassed.

Oh fuck . I didn’t mean it like that. I gotta keep this professional. I don’t need a bad review from this guy.

He raised an eyebrow at you. “Oh really? Then lemme get a taste,” he said licking his lips. Your eyes widened slightly but he caught it. 

“Size?” you asked looking down at the tablet screen. 

“Large” he said with a bld and dark stare, “How much I owe you?”

“This one will be on the house. I want to make sure you’re satisfied.”

OH MY GAWD GIRL? WHO ARE YOU? WHAT IS COMING OUT OF YOUR MOUTH. PLEASE LEAD WITH YOUR HEAD AND LESS OF THE PUSSY

“Antwon, let’s switch. I’ll take the bar. You take the register!” You yelled out and quckly you two transitioned so that he could help the growing line of customer and you could bang out the drinks. Erik followed as you moved to the bar where he watched you work your magic. Once you were done pouring his drink you gave it to him. You got started not the next orders not the board but made sure to keep an eye on him as he took the first sip.  

“Fuck ma. This shit good” It was your turn to smirk. 

“That’s what I was trying to tell you. So now you’re hooked on the Brew Thang?”

“Oh yeah, I’m definitely satisfied.” You failed to hide your giggle as you called out that Ricky’s order was ready. Erik stuck around for a little after that inquiring about other menu items that you told him not be too quick to judge based on their names. The initial tension had dissolved and you two were in a comfortable rhythm of commenting on both the menu and the changes you’d seen in Oakland during the last few years. Thankfully there wasn’t a rush at the moment and it was fine for your to be off to the side of the bar answering any questions he could put forth. He was attentive to your passion regarding the menu and all that went into the shop as a whole.

“Hol up. You ain’t a barista. This is yo shit?”

“I prefer Brewista and yes. I do co-own this shop with my best friend Ray and we have a great Graphic Artist, Lulu, on deck too” The more he learned about you. The more he wanted to know.

“Okay Miss Entrepreneur. I see you. Damn, does that mean that you tha one that come up with these corny ass names then?”

You scowled playfully. “You keep talkin on my name and you gone catch these hands. I’m a professional. But I grew up on these streets. I can throw blows Erik,”

“My bad baby girl. I respect your grind.”

“Okay. So who really is the corny one here?”

“Whatever,” he smiled. A genuine smile with teeth and this made you want to melt right there. “Anyways, speaking of Brew Thangs, you got  a ni-“

His phone rang and he glanced down cursing. He put up his index finger and gestured that he just need one moment. You nodded your consent.

“What up T?”

In that time that he took his call, you looked up and saw that you had a line out the door. Sherrell came back out to the floor and your two were in a great rhythm getting through the 16 drink orders that had come up. When you looked up again, Erik was no where to be found. Now that the shop was stable you let Sherell do her thang and went into the back to re-convene with Lu & Ray.

“Y/N we need to get you an award for best employer. You really be out here goin the extra mile for your staff,” Lu said. You lifted the corner of your mouth in a weak attempt at a smile.

“Uh uh. Hoe what’s wrong?” Ray said noting your dejected spirt.

“Now? Now you listen to me?!” you yelled. “ALLL the time, I tell yo asses not to intervene in my love life and the one time it may have actually been beneficial y’all were no where to be seen!”

“I know she didn’t” Ray said.

“Yeah. She did” Lu, retorted. “I’m gonna ignore your funky attitude because I can see you’re going through something sis. What’s the deal?”

“I was talking to this guy. This man. And y’all he was so charming and sexy as hell and he wasn’t afraid to talk about shit that matters and I just turned away to make some drinks and he disappeared! I really thought he was gonna make a move. Or at the very least that you two would move in on him and make me sit through another awkward date. But nooooooo, you two finally decided to respect my wishes for once and now Imma die alone!” you monologued.

“You done?” Lu asked.

“Yes” you pouted.

“Aww come here baby,” Ray said with his arms outstretched, “I’m sure he’ll be back.” He hugged your frame tightly and rubbed some circles into your back. “Especially if you turned around when you were in front of him, cuz BABY GOT BACK!!” He yelled.

You and Lu laughed as he started smackin your ass and shakin his own. Soon enough you were all in the back twerkin like it was the first night y’all meet all over again. Hopefully he’d be back.

I’m sorry I forgot who to tag! Soooo if you got tagged and didn’t wanna be I’m sorry. The inverse is the same 😁

@twistedcharismaaa @raysunshine78

@ghostfacekill-monger @yoursoulstea 

@shewrites02 @sarcastic-sunshines

@thadelightfulone

[darkobsidianquill]

Harry Potter and the descent into Darkness.

Chapter Six

Harry spent some time in the library the next day looking for anything that could be useful in dealing with the task. It was difficult to ask Hermione for help since he'd given her the impression that he already had the task sort of worked out, and the potions he'd been brewing were for it.

If he admitted that he'd fibbed a bit, she would want to know what those potions had actually been for, and he wasn't willing to tell her that.

He was getting frustrated with the library rather quickly – especially with all the people who were there. It was still the Christmas hols for Merlin's sake! Why were there so ruddy many students hanging around the library? Stupid ball. Harry actually missed the quiet that would have been granted him during the holiday under normal circumstances. Thanks to the ball, almost every student forth year and up had stayed behind.

It was at that point that he recalled all of the books down in Slytherin's study in the chamber. Well, if nothing else, at least he wouldn't have to deal with any other students while searching those books.

Harry went up to Gryffindor Tower, grabbed his cloak, map, and his bag and headed back down the stairs. Ron reminded him about that offer for a game of exploding snap, but Harry declined, saying he needed to do some work for the task and quickly left.

Ten minutes later, Harry was slipping into Slytherin's study and setting down his bag.

Harry sat down on the chaise lounge and looked out over the room of books. Most of them were... well, old. Obviously. He was afraid to actually touch some of them just because they looked like the slightest bit of manhandling and they would crumble apart. They were a thousand years old, after all.

Some, however, were in much better condition than others. He could feel fragmented bits of magic floating through the room and realized that it felt sort of reminiscent of a preservation charm. It was weakened though, and had failed in certain sections of the room.

He had also noted that there was a neatly stacked pile of books along one side of the room, that were all in much better condition than any of the others. They also reeked of much more recent magic than the rest did.

Harry theorized that these were books that Riddle had restored or repaired during his time as a student at Hogwarts. He could see why, upon closer examination, since most of those books looked incredibly interesting.

Harry sighed heavily and wondered if he could find anything to help him with the task here. Surely, in this treasure trove of knowledge, he would find something useful.

He stood up and walked over to the stack of books that Riddle had restored. He crouched down and began to read through the titles.

Search spell...

His companion's voice whispered through his head and Harry paused.

"What?"

There is a spell... to search for... subject matter in books. Much... faster.

"Seriously? Why didn't you mention this earlier in the library?"

…

Harry rolled his eyes and sighed. "Alright, what is it?"

Invenio... wand movement isss... an S shape. Incant... Invenio... and then the word... or phrasse... you are searching for.

Harry nodded his head and grinned widely. He decided to test it out on something first so he picked up the first book in front of him, looked at the title, Tip-Toeing Through the Mind of the Unaware by Clair Videre. His brows rose as his interest was peaked.

He set the book down on the floor beside him and took out his wand. He called the magics from deep inside him and hummed in pleasure at the feel of it swirling around him so easily. He pointed his wand at the book, made an S movement and said "Invinio Mind."

A swirly yellow light came from the tip of his wand and began to dance around the book. The word Mind on the cover glowed yellow for a moment, and then the whole book began to glow lightly. It flipped open suddenly and the pages began to flip rapidly from the front all the way through the back. When it finished, he noticed quite a lot of pages seemed to be glowing yellow now, apparently marking that the word mind had been found there. He realized that a book about mind magic would probably use the word mind a lot in it, so it made sense.

He grinned at his easy success and did a quick finite and the glowing disappeared. He was about to put the book back when he paused, grinned, and set it over by his bag instead.

He'd been doing mind searching on pure instinct. He wondered what he would learn about it from a book actually written on the subject. He still didn't even know if there was a name for what he was doing, and was interested to see what he could learn in a more structured setting than his own blind attempts at figuring his own way through it.

He turned back to the stack of books and tried to think of a good keyword or phrase to search. He figured the matter of the water was probably the most pressing to start with. Swimming, sight, and breathing.

He frowned.

"Hey, does it have to be an exact quote for it to find it in the book, or can I do a search for multiple concepts and have it come back with 'close' matches?"

It will... return close matches to concepts... if that isss what you desire.

Harry grinned and thanked his companion. He raised his wand to the books, did an S shaped movement and said "Invenio swimming, breathing, water."

The yellow swirl exited his wand again and began to dance around the books. It continued it's dance for quite a while as it searched through the dozens of books. Harry sat back and waited, taking a moment to look around the cluttered office. He really ought to try cleaning the place up a bit...

Finally he felt the magic finish and looked over the stacks. There were a number of books highlighted in yellow and he began to collect each one into his arms.

He brought the small pile over to the table beside the chaise and set them down. He pulled the first one off the pile and sat back and got comfortable.

The Serpentine Transformations of the Parselmage

by Apala Denisonia

One of Harry's eyebrows rose as he looked at it curiously. It was in impressive condition. In fact, it was obviously not old enough to have been placed here by Slytherin. He checked the front cover and saw that it was only printed about 100 years ago.

It must have been a book Riddle left here. Harry thought to himself.

He opened the book to the section his search spell had identified with the most glowing yellow and began to read. It was describing the Sea Serpent form and it's benefits in aiding in swimming. Breathing air was still necessary, because reptiles do not have gills, but in the form, one could hold their breath for twenty minutes between breaths. It said that if an extended stay underwater was necessary, that a bubble-head charm could be used. Harry paused and looked down at the book in mild confusion. It was obvious that he was missing something important and decided to go back to the introduction of the book instead.

"Under normal circumstances, human to animal transfiguration is a very dangerous piece of magic to attempt. When transfigured into an animal, the wizard takes on the mind and mental capacity of that animal, and as such, looses the ability to wield magic. Any wizard that completely transfigures themselves into an animal will be left unable to transfigure themselves back.

Another wizard can reverse the spell for them, but without that backup, they could end up being trapped that way, indefinitely.

An animagus is a wizard who possesses the innate ability to transform themselves into one specific animal form, that is determined mostly by their personality.

When an animagus is transformed, they retain their human mental capacity, as well as their ability to perform the magic necessary to return them to their normal human form. The animagus transformation is just that – a transformation. Not a transfiguration.

The animagus transformation has a few key downsides though. First and foremost, it takes an average wizard at least two years to master the skill – assuming that they are even capable of it in the first place. Second is the fact that the wizard is not able to decide what animal form they will take. And third, they can only ever assume that one form their entire lives. There is no opportunity to learn additional animal forms, so if the animal form they assume is not a desirable or advantageous one, they will have wasted two years of study for nothing.

It is established fact that wizards who possess the skill in parseltongue are descendants from wizards who interbred with one of the humanoid-serpent races – most often the Naga from India, but in some instances, the Yuan-ti of eastern Asia. Both the Naga and the Yuan-ti possessed the natural ability to transform themselves into humans, and used this skill in their exploits of seducing and abusing gullible humans.

Some, however, willing took a human as a mate, and it is the descendants of their offspring that possess the ability to use and manipulate the ancient parselmagics.

Because of this descent from magical creature blood, many wizards who have inherited the ability to speak parseltongue and perform parselmagic, also possess the ability to transform themselves into various serpent forms.

It is not a transfiguration, but a transformation, like the animagus transformation. Unlike the animagus transformation, this skill does not limit the wizard to a single form. Multiple forms can be learned through practice and dedication.

An additional benefit over the animagus transformation is that if you are capable of this skill, it is unlikely to take longer than two-to-three months of practice to perform a complete transformation for the first time. Each additional form will be harder to assume and will take additional time and practice to master.

Most parselmages have one or two serpentine forms that they prefer and master, but are able of taking on one or two more for other specific needs.

The following chapters detail some of the most common forms identified in parselmages and the best ways to achieve those forms through practice and meditation."

Harry paused and looked down at the book in his hands. Could he possibly perform any of these transformations? He sort of doubted it, since he wasn't biologically descended from 'parselmages'. He'd gained his ability from Voldemort. If the ability to do this transformation thing was because they descended from er... nagas, or something, he doubted he would have gained that too. But then again, it was a magical transformation, so who knew?

It was worth investigating, at least. He was still a little confused about the whole transforming into a sea serpent thing. Did that mean he would actually turn into a tiny snake? It could be useful... He could probably swim really fast as a little snake, but could a tiny reptilian body stand the cold of the black lake for an hour? And what about breathing? He would have to look up this bubble-head charm it had mentioned. And if he did this in the tournament, would the Ministry think he was an animagus and make him register? Would he be punished for not being registered already? His understanding was that you didn't have to register as an animagus until you'd reached 17, so maybe he would be able to slip by. Preferable, he would do this without anyone actually realizing he'd done it.

He went back to the chapter on the sea serpent form to read up on it's specific characteristics to see if it would actually be suitable for what he needed. He still had a small pile of books to look through, so if this didn't pan out, he could check the others.

Thirty minutes later he had finished the chapter, and had at least a fair number of his questions answered.

He would not and up as a 'tiny' snake, if he did this. In fact, he would probably be a very large snake. His body mass would be shifted into the form of a serpent, so as much mass as he had as a human, he would still have as a snake, just stretched out over the elongated serpentine form.

It said that in that form, he would be able to swim incredibly fast. Sea serpents were extremely agile and fast in water, and their bodies were literally a long tube of muscle, making them very dangerous to try and go up against. The sea serpent also had a secondary eyelid that was see-through, so he could easily open his eyes under water without irritation. Also, they apparently had really good night vision. In addition to all this, he would also have poisonous venom in that form! He would be down-right deadly!

On the down-side, he would be cold blooded, and the water temperature of the black lake would be undeniably unpleasant, but a warming spell cast before the transformation could help stave off the cold during the actual task.

He wouldn't be able to cast any traditional wizard magic while in his serpent form, since he couldn't actually speak or wield a wand, however he would still be able to cast some parselmagic.

It sounded like the best strategy for an extended stay underwater would be to cast this bubble-head charm over his nose and mouth and cast a full-body warming charm while still human, jump into the water, and then transform once he'd gone deep enough that people wouldn't be able to see him. Of course, this would only work assuming that there wouldn't be some sort of magical observation or surveillance system set up so that those in attendance could watch the champions under water.

He almost expected that Dumbledore would have come up with some way to watch them – how else would they be able to tell if someone was in dire trouble and in need of help?

Still, the transformation seemed like a viable option for his task. Even if he did end up having to register as an animagus. And if he got in 'trouble' for being unregistered, he could just point out that it wasn't actually an animagus transformation, and hopefully get off on that technicality.

This was. Of course assuming he learned the transformation before mid February when the next task would take place. Oh, and assuming he was even able to do it at all... Which part of him still seriously doubted.

Harry went to the first chapter and began to read. It described a rather complicated sounding parselmagic chant that would dig deep into your parselmagic core and tell you if you were even capable of the transformation.

He read it through a few times, and his companion spoke up a few times to explain concepts that confused Harry. Finally he stood up and walked to the center of the room. He closed his eyes and focused on the image of a serpent in his mind. He began to quietly hiss a rhythmic chant of sorts and felt the parselmagic begin to swirl and twist around him. He grabbed onto that magic and pulled more of it to the surface than he had ever needed to before.

It was electric and intoxicating. Pulling out his normal magic, and pulling out his parselmagic was so different, but if he were asked to explain why, he couldn't. His parselmagic just felt so... intoxicating somehow. It made him feel giddy.

As he continued pulling out more and more of his parselmagic, his head felt more and more light and fuzzy. His lids grew heavy and his mouth spread into an odd sort of grin. Strange hissed giggles escaped his lips and morphed into a loud cackle. The magic reached a tremendous peak before suddenly leaving him in a great explosion of dark energy. He gasped in shock and his knees gave out. The force of it caused him to fall down and left him bent over, supporting himself with his palms flat on the cold stone floor. He stayed there, motionless for a long moment, panting heavily, and shaking from the shock his body had just experienced.

He opened his eyes and saw he was glowing lightly. It was a subtle green pulse, and it was quickly fading. He grinned widely.

He was able to perform the transformation.

He stayed there for a few more minutes, before he felt that enough strength had returned to allow him to stand to his feet. His limbs still felt like jelly, but he was able to get to the chaise and sit down. He weakly pulled the book onto his lap and began to read again. He wanted this to work. He would make it work. And even if he couldn't get it to work in time for the task... it just sounded to fascinating not to learn it anyway.

– –

A week had passed since Harry had come up with the parselmage transformation option, and he'd been spending some time down in the chamber each day since, practicing, meditating, and searching the few parselmagic books contained down there for useful spells.

"Where do you keep going, Harry?" Ron whined as Harry came in through the portrait hole. "The holiday is almost over and I've hardly seen you at all!"

It was now Saturday again, and it was just after one in the afternoon. Harry had taken his second dose of the accelerant potion the night before and he was currently sore and exhausted. He wanted absolutely nothing to do with Ron Weasley. Especially a whining Ron Weasley.

Harry clenched his jaw and closed his eyes trying desperately to reign in his temper and not snap at Ron. It wouldn't do for him to lash out at the other boy. It would only raise questions. Increase suspicions. And he did not need more people watching him and wondering about him. Things had actually quieted down a bit lately and he was enjoying the calm.

He took a couple deep breaths and opened his eyes. Ron was looking at him funny.

"Look, Ron, I've been busy. I'm working on my strategy for the second task and it's taking a lot of work. That's all."

"You aren't seriously still brewing potions, are you!" Ron exclaimed, incredulously.

"No, actually, I finished that."

Ron blinked but then his face grew bright. "So you're done!"

Harry signed and reached up and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I'm done with the potions, yes. But that was only the first step, Ron. I've still got to learn some spells and it's taking a lot of practice."

Ron's face fell. "Oh."

"Do you need any help?" Hermione's voice came in and Harry turned to see her sitting at one of the overstuffed chairs by the fireplace.

"Nah, Hermione. I've got it covered."

"Are you sure? I mean... we could help you practice or something," she offered, looking hopeful.

Harry scrunched up his face, trying to think of anything he was working on that they could actually help with.

He'd already mastered the warming charm and the bubble-head charm. They'd been easy. Everything that was left at this part was all parselmagic.

There was still the locating charms though.

He'd done another 'word search' spell down in Salazar's study for 'location spell' and 'parselmagic' and manged to find a parseltongue book on a variety of general spells – including two different location spells. He had only done this the day before, so he hadn't yet gotten around to testing out either.

"Well..." he began slowly, "I need to practice some locator charms."

"Locator charms?" Hermione said, perking up and looking at him with interest. "So... can you tell us what exactly the task is going to be? Or... are you not supposed to say? I have to admit, Harry, I've been absolutely dying of curiosity."

"Er, yeah... Well, I think it's alright for me to say. No one has told me not to. Basically, for the task I've got to find something. I still don't know what it will be though. Apparently they're going to steal something from me and hide it at the bottom of the lake. I'll have one hour to find it, and if Idon't find it, I'll never get it back."

Hermione and Ron both gave him horrified looks. Ron spoke first.

"But there's... things in the lake! What about the giant squid?"

Harry coughed out a humorless laugh. "Yes Ron, I'm aware of that."

"But the lake is huge! And it's incredibly deep! How on earth will you ever hold your breath long enough to search it? You'll need some sort of underwater breathing spell or something. Oh, what ever are you going to do Harry?" Hermione said with a utterly stricken expression.

"I'm working on a few things... I've already got the water breathing thing worked out. As for surviving the squid, the grindylows, and the mer-people, I've got a primary strategy I'm aiming for, but I've also got a back-up plan in case I can't get the first one worked out in time. Anyway, either way I go, I still want to work out these locator spells, and you two could probably help with that."

"How so?" Hermione asked, sitting at attention and taking on her 'serious' face.

"Well... you could just... take something from me, and I'll try to find it. For all I know, they aren't even going to tell me what they take from me, so I may go into it totally blind. I want to try it both ways. Knowing what I'm looking for, and not knowing."

"You want to do this now?" Ron said, looking eager.

Harry grimaced. "Ugh, no... sorry guys, but I'm exhausted. I was actually planning on heading up to bed and taking a nap."

"Whut!" Ron exclaimed. "But it's only one in the afternoon!"

"I've been up since really early Ron, and I've been er... working on some really strenuous things since then, so I'm really wiped out."

"Okay," Ron said, looking glum.

"Well you'd better go get some rest then," Hermione said, instead of asking the questions that were clearly on the tip of her tongue.

She looked like she desperately wanted to ask Harry what he'd been up to to get so exhausted. The fact that he'd finally given up some details about the tournament, after refusing to tell them a single thing before then, had only wet her appetite, and now she was clearly hungry for more. He was surprised she refrained from badgering him.

"Thanks," he said, smiling in relief.

"We can work on that locator thing tomorrow," Ron said as Harry turned and headed towards the stairs.

"Yeah, sure," Harry said as he waved dismissively over his shoulder and began to climb the stairs.

– –

"Come, Wormtail," he said while beckoning forward with his tiny, long-fingered hand. The short pudgy man was trembling and cowering in the back of the room. He squeaked with startled surprise and scurried over to him.

"Yes, my Lord?" Wormtail sad as he kneeled and bowed his head.

"Your arm, Wormtail," he commanded.

Wormtail's head rose the slightest bit and he looked up through his long, thinning hair and trembled. Slowly, Wormtail rose his left arm, baring his forearm and pulling back the sleeve of his robe.

He reached to the short table beside the chair he rested in and grasped his wand in hand. He enjoyed the warm flow of magic he felt coursing through it and into his hand. His connection to his magic was strengthening with each passing day. It was a reminder to him that it was only a matter of time... just a matter of time...

He took the wand and pressed it hard into his servants arm. He grinned wickedly as he saw the simpering little rat flinch in apparent pain.

He called forth some of his magical wells and smiled wickedly when it came to him with much more ease than it had in far too long. It felt glorious and filled him with anxious anticipation for what was to come.

He collected the magic together and forced it through his wand and into the mark. The faded mark began to darken and throb with the sudden influx of magic. Wormtail whimpered quietly as the pain involved with being the vessel for the magic. It only made him smirk with increased glee.

This was the third time he had done this, but it would be the first time that it would truly make a noticeable difference with his followers. They would begin to feel it now.

Before he was just reestablishing the connection. Now they would begin to know, without a shadow of a doubt, that their Lord was returning. Each time he repeated this, the mark would grow stronger, and the compulsion to return to him, when called upon, would grow with it.

Ideally, this would guarantee that they would be ready when he finally did call them to return to his side. He didn't want them to have any excuse for dallying. They couldn't claim that they simply did not expect to be called upon, because it had been so very many years since his fall. There was ample warning, and punishment for an untimely return would be tremendous.

He pulled his wand back, with a satisfied smirk gracing his lipless features. Wormtail whimpered and hesitantly lowered his arm.

"Very good, Wormtail," he said in a quiet hiss. "Bring me the chair."

"Yes my Lord," Wormtail said as he bowed his head again and quickly scurried out of the room. He returned a minute later with a carved mahogany chair without any legs, that was levitating in mid-air. The chair was small in size, as if it were made for a young child, and the arms of it were intricately carved to look like snakes, curled around and then coming up along the top of the back rest.

He made a motion with his hand and gave Wormtail an expectant look. The cowering wizard hurried over and lifted him up off the armchair and placed him into the floating wooden chair.

"The books have been placed in the library?" he asked.

"Yes, my Lord. I unpacked the crates this morning, just like you ordered it."

"Good. Leave me."

"Y-yes, my Lord."

Wormtail bowed again and quickly raced from the room while subconsciously holding his left forearm to his chest; clearly thankful to be dismissed. He shifted his ridiculously undersized body in the stiff wooden chair. He really needed to add some cushions to it. No matter. He would deal with it later.

He waved his hand and the chair began to move smoothly forward. He directed it out of the room and down the hall, into the library. Several crates lined the walls. He knew they contained the old tattered muggle books that used to occupy the shelves. Taking their place in the bookshelves were a collection of books he had recovered from one of his old warded storehouses. He had been thrilled to discover that it had gone undiscovered during his absence, and left entirely in tact. Sending Wormtail, of all people, to recover them had been annoying, but even Pettigrew wasn't incompetent enough to screw that up.

He guided the chair past the rows of books, examining the titles on the spines and reacquainting himself with the collection of ancient tomes.

He sighed happily. It was such a relief to have recovered these. His books were like an extension of himself. He hated to be so forcefully separated from his knowledge base. He would always miss the books he had unfortunately been forced to leave back at the school. But someday – hopefully someday soon – he would gain control over the school and be able to go and fetch them from the chamber. But still, these books were a fantastic find, even if they weren't quite a precious as the ones left behind at the school.

He reached out and ran his fingers over the old leather and breathed in a deep breath. Yes. He missed this...

– –

Harry opened his eyes, sighed, and smiled. It was a strange sort of contentment. An odd feeling. The feeling from having something you treasured returned to you, after having thought it lost.

Or... having something that he treasured, returned to him. He amended.

But still, it had felt like...

Harry shook his head. He had lay in bed with his eyes closed, yet actually still awake, for the last twenty minutes. He had been mulling over his vision from the previous night. It was... strange seeing this side of Voldemort. The man had such an appreciation for knowledge. It was strange, in an odd way, to have his suspicions about Tom Riddle and the chamber be confirmed. He had known, on an academic level, that Riddle had been down there. Probably spent loads of time down there.

That Riddle had read those same books that Harry was reading. That he had placed some of them there, himself. It was... interesting to feel the same affection for those books while in Voldemort's mind, that Harry himself felt for them. Voldemort saw no distinction between what he learned. Knowledge was power, and it was all worthy of his attention.

The strangest revelation from the previous nights vision had, however, happened towards the end. It was early in the morning and Wormtail had returned from a trip to the local muggle market – apparently, where ever the manor house Voldemort was living in was, it was near some muggle village. Wormtail had brought a few muggle publications and the newspaper back with him on Voldemort's order. This was apparently a regular thing as Voldemort had immediately set down what he was busying himself with and had begun to read the muggle paper. He had told Wormtail to try and acquire some more international publications in the future as well.

Voldemort hated having been out of the loop for so long. The wizarding world had basically sat still during that time, since the wizarding world hardly ever changed or progressed – so set in their ways, wizards were – but the muggles had changed so much, so fast. Especially the last fifteen years. Voldemort felt he needed to reacquaint himself with the technologies and advancements of the muggles. He needed to be prepared.

The thing that left Harry the most... surprised was the total lack of thoughts about muggle inferiority. Wasn't that supposed to be Voldemort's thing? The belief that muggles were no better than stupid animals? Filthy, stupid, weak, muggles?

But he hadn't thought that. Harry was surprised to find the man held a surprising amount of respect for their capabilities. But he did consider them a serious threat. He thought them dangerous. Voldemort kept thinking about the work he needed to complete. About his task. It left Harry confused and feeling like he was missing some bigger-picture thing.

Harry sighed and shook his head. It was like all of the foundational beliefs he had gained over the previous three years had been based on lies, and misinformation. Actually being inside Voldemort's head had shown something Harry had never expected to see.

Voldemort was just... a person.

Albeit, a tremendously powerful person, with a hunger for ultimate knowledge and control. But still a person. He had always imagined Voldemort as some sort of blood-thirsty monster, incapable of rational thought, who passed his days by torturing people, and planning new and more creative ways to kill muggles. Was any of that true?

And his power... Harry had felt the power that coursed through him when he touched his wand to Wormtail's mark and it had been utterly inebriating. It was dark, and delicious... and that had only been a small fraction of his power!

Harry closed his eyes at the memory of what it had felt like to experience that magic, first hand. Air escaped his lungs in a heavy shuddering breath and he smiled. The memory sent a pleasant curling in his stomach that he didn't want to let go of.

A moment later he sighed again and shook himself out of his growing stupor. It wasn't good to dwell on such things. It wasn't... healthy.

Harry spent the majority of the morning in the chamber practicing the meditative breathing practice, and the magical focusing techniques. He was beginning to feel the magic coiling in his stomach. His skin tingled with the transformation magic, but nothing had actually happened yet. Still, he was optimistic. It was January 3rd, and the next task wasn't until February 24th. He had a gameplan, and he had time.

He left the chamber and returned to the school for lunch. Ron asked Harry if he wanted to start working on that locator charm, but Harry declined, telling both he and Hermione that he was in the middle of some of his other preparations and wanted to get back to it right away.

Ron was clearly disappointed, and scowled but didn't protest any further.

Harry left the great hall and slipped behind a tapestry into a hidden corridor and pulled the map and cloak out of his bag. He tapped the map, activating it and checked the 2nd floor corridor to make sure the coast was clear so he could re-enter the chamber when he saw Karkaroff's name moving along a corridor in the dungeons towards Snape's office.

Harry frowned and his mind wandered back to the warning from Sirius to keep his eyes open, from last term. Karkaroff was a former Death Eater, and Harry couldn't help but wonder what he might be doing going to speak to Snape.

He made the decision quickly and hurried down the corridor towards the stairs and down into the dungeon.

He pulled out his wand as he got closer and cast a silencing charm over himself. He checked the map again and saw that the two of them were inside Snape's office now. He tapped the map with his wand, ending the spell and put it into his pocket. He hurried down the corridor and stood outside the closed door, pressing his ear to it and trying to listen in.

The voices were too muffled to make out and Harry grumbled in frustration. He wished he knew a spell for eavesdropping through doors, or to increase his hearing, but nothing came to mind.

The voices beyond the door became elevated and suddenly the door flew open. Harry only just barely managed to fly away from the open doorway and press himself against the wall beside it.

"Out!" Snape growled.

"But Severus! You must listen!"

"I must do nothing!" Snape hissed in a deadly whisper.

Harry peered around the corner and saw that Karkaroff was holding the left sleeve of his robes up and exposing his forearm to Snape.

"You know what it means, Severus! You must feel it too!"

"Yes of course I have felt it. And I know exactly what it means. I am no fool, Igor!"

"Dumbledore protects you, Severus. I have no such luxury! Vhen our Lord returns he vill crucify me!"

"That is you're problem, not mine!"

"But Severus! You must –"

"NO! Now get out!"

Karkaroff stood straighter and let his arm fall to his side. He was scowling at Snape, but nodded his head.

"Fine then. But this is not over," Karkaroff said harshly before turning and storming out of the office and down the long dungeon corridor.

Snape stood in the doorway for a long minute before growling angrily, marching back inside and slamming the door shut behind him.

Harry stood there for another minute, trying to comprehend what he had just witnessed.

Karkaroff was a Death Eater. He knew that. Although, apparently, he didn't think that Voldemort would be particularly pleased with him, so maybe he had done something during the last decade that the Dark Lord would be angry about.

It made it rather unlikely that Karkaroff was the Death Eater contact within the school that had put Harry's name in the goblet of fire, though.

But what was really cause for contemplation was the fact that Karkaroff had gone to Snape. He had shown Snape his mark. This had to have been about what Voldemort did the previous night with Wormtail's mark. Voldemort had pushed his magic through all of the marks to begin activating them. Karkaroff had felt this and had panicked. But Snape said that he had felt it too. That he knew too. And Karkaroff had come to Snape.

Was Snape a Death Eater!

Did that mean that Snape could have been the one who put Harry's name in the cup?

Harry pushed himself off the wall and began to quickly make his way back towards the second floor. He entered Myrtle's bathroom, walked directly to the sink, and hissed the open command. A few minutes later and he was hissing his way into Slytherin's study, his mind still racing.

Instead of going to the chaise, like he usually did, he went over to Slytherin's desk and set his bag on top. He pulled out some parchment, quill and ink, and sat in the chair.

He sat, staring at the blank page for a few long minutes as he tried to make some order of his thoughts.

Finally he put quill to parchment and began to compose a letter to Sirius. It had been nearly a month since he had last written to his Godfather, and over two months since he had last spoken with him, when he had fire called at the start of November.

Sirius had known that Karkaroff was a Death Eater. Maybe he would know something about Snape too. At the very least, he could act as a sounding board for Harry's theories.

He repeated everything he could recall of the brief bit of conversation he had overheard between Karkaroff and Snape and told Sirius how Karkaroff had been showing Snape his dark mark.

Harry didn't mention his visions to Sirius, even though at the start of term, Sirius had asked him to let him know if he was still having them. He didn't want to share them. They felt sort of... private. Plus he doubted he could properly explain to anyone else what it was like for him to experience them. How when he had a vision of Voldemort, it was as if he was Voldemort. He could only imagine how that would be received by anyone else.

No. He couldn't tell anyone about his visions. But he still wanted Sirius's opinion on the Snape-Karkaroff encounter. Hopefully it wouldn't take another month for his godfather to actually respond.

– –

The next day was the start of second term. Harry had stayed up late reading, and then had spent another hour laying in bed, buried deep in his mindscape with his companion. Because of this, he had slept in a bit later than he would usually allow himself and was forced to rush through his morning routine, gulp down his two potions, and race down to breakfast.

He jogged down to the Great Hall and briskly walked through the doors. The second he stepped through the doors the room fell eerily quiet. Harry instantly slowed in his stride and looked around the room cautiously. An alarmingly large number of eyes were trained on him. A substantial quantity of snickering began to emanate from the Slytherin table.

Oh, now what? He grumbled bitterly as he resumed his rough strides to the Gryffindor table. He found Ron and Hermione and walked to them. Hermione was holding the Daily Prophet in her hands and looking devastated. Ron was looking at Harry with a mixture of confusion and disbelief.

A quick glance around the room and Harry was able to note that a lot of people were holding the Daily Prophet in their hands.

This can't be good...

He sat down next to Hermione, gave a resigned sigh, and reached out his hand, silently asking for her to hand over the paper.

"Harry –" she began to say in weak protest, but he shot her a look that booked no discussion. She sighed heavily, nodded her head, and handed over the paper.

Harry unfolded it and laid it out in front of him. What he saw there, in big bold letters, printed across the front page, was definitely not something he had been expecting.

THE BOY WHO LIVED TO BE GAY?

By Rita Skeeter

Harry closed his eyes. He reached up and pinched the bridge of his nose between his thumb and forefinger as he lowered his head slightly.

"Harry?" Hermione asked in a quiet, careful voice.

She leaned in closer when she got no response. "Harry? It's... it's not so bad..." She paused when she thought she heard something. His shoulders jerked and shook for a moment and she feared he might be about to burst into sobs! She leaned in even closer and turned her head to the side, trying to get a look at his bowed head.

Her brow furrowed in confusion when she heard what sounded like a... chuckle?

Harry snorted and the damn broke. He began to chuckle harder and louder before his held fell back and he erupted in laughter. His whole body shook with the force of his laugh and it lasted for a few solid minutes before he had finally calmed himself down enough that only the occasional snort, or hiccoughed-chuckle escaped him.

"Er... mate? You alright?" Ron asked hesitantly, apparently worried that Harry might of gone totally barmy. Harry nodded his head and let out the sort of sigh you give when you've just had a good laugh. Which he had, so it was appropriate.

"Well you're taking it loads better than I expected," Ron observed. "So it's just rubbish, right? That damned Skeeter woman will print anything!"

Harry shook his head, still calming from his laugh. "No Ron. It's true," he said as he raised his head and gave the ginger an amused smile.

Ron's face went stark pale. Harry heard several of the people sitting within hearing range actually gasp. He rolled his eyes.

"Although, I wonder how the ruddy hell she found out," Harry said as he sat up straight and smoothed the paper out again. He glanced over to Hermione, and marginally narrowed his eyes. "You didn't let it slip, did you?"

She gasped and looked horribly offended. "Of course not! Harry, I would never had told anyone!"

Harry grinned and nodded his head. "Yeah, I know. Still had to ask."

"Whoa... wait. Wait, Harry... what..." Ron was spluttering now and looking, frantically, back and forth between Harry and Hermione. "You're...? But what about Fleur! And you! You knew?" he exclaimed, pointing at Hermione, accusingly.

"Ron, did you even read the article!" Hermione asked in exasperation.

"I skimmed it!" he said defensively. "Besides, I assumed it was just more of Skeeter's rubbish!"

"Fleur knew. Or, at least, she suspected before hand, and had it figured out by the end of the ball," Harry said with a one-shouldered shrug as he reached over and began to scoop some scrambled eggs onto his plate. He was pointedly ignoring the dozens of sets of eyes still locked on him intently, and the roar of hushed whispers.

Let them stare. Stupid gawking idiots.

"She knew?" Hermione gasped. "You don't think..."

Harry shrugged. "If it wasn't you, it had to be her. But I really didn't expect this."

"Do you think that maybe she was bitter? That you took her to the dance, even though you weren't really interested?" Hermione asked.

"It really doesn't add up... I mean, she was really good about it after the dance when we talked. She seemed thankful. Said she had a great time. I mean, if she'd gone with a straight bloke, her aura would have been effecting him all night long, and all he would have done is drool on her and tried to grope her. She said she was grateful for being able to attend the dance with someone capable of coherent conversation. It really doesn't make sense that she would have gone to Skeeter."

Hermione made a noise in her throat and looked thoughtful.

"Harry..." Ron croaked weakly and Harry looked back up at the red-head sitting opposite him at the table. "You're... you're seriously gay?"

Harry rolled his eyes. "Yes Ron. I'm gay."

He heard another rush of whispers, echo through the hall as word spread like fiendfyre. Harry shook his head and chuckled weakly before turning back to his plate and stuffing another bite of food in his mouth.

A moment passed where Ron's face was a mask of disbelief and shock, finally his gaze settled on Hermione. "And you knew!" he said accusingly.

Hermione sighed. "Yes, Ron. I knew."

"Why? How?"

"Harry told me," she said in a hushed voice as she glanced around the crowded room that was still intently watching their every move.

"When?" Ron shrieked slightly, and his voice cracked.

"Um... the last week of November, I think. It really doesn't matter."

"Of course it matters!"

"Ron, don't make a scene!" Hermione reprimanded with a harsh hiss.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Ron asked, accusingly again, as he turned to Harry this time.

Harry sighed and let his fork fall to his plate. "It didn't come up. I also didn't see how it should matter."

"Why did you ask Fleur to the dance if you don't even fancy her?"

Harry blinked. "What does it matter if I asked Fleur to the dance?"

"Well, someone else could have asked her!"

"Who? You?" Harry responded, leaning back in his chair and giving the ginger a pointed look.

"Yeah, maybe!" Ron said defensively, sitting up more in his seat.

"Do you realize that one of the biggest reasons she said yes to my invitation is because I'm gay?"

"What sense does that make?" Ron exclaimed.

Harry let his hand hit his forehead and groaned in frustration. He let his hand fall back down and resigned himself to actually having this conversation.

"Since I don't fancy girls, I'm immune to her veela aura. That's why. Try empathizing with Fleur for a minute. No matter where she goes, guys follow her. They fall over each other to be near her. They practically worship the ground she walks on, and the second any of them open their mouths, they sound like blathering idiots because their ability to think properly is being inhibited by their hormones, which are being triggered into overdrive by her veela aura.

"And if guys aren't acting like brainless morons around her, they're trying to grope her, and assault her. By going with me, she didn't have to deal with any of that. That's why it makes sense."

Ron scowled back angrily, folded his arms over his chest and proceeded to pout like a child. Harry almost laughed, but he knew that would only make Ron more mad.

Harry picked his fork back up and resumed eating while he looked down at the paper and began to actually read the article.

He frowned as he came across a paragraph that made reference to some of the conversation that he, Fleur, Krum, and Hermione had, had while sitting at a table together at the dance.

Harry leaned back and pointed at it while turning to Hermione. "How do you suppose she got this?"

Hermione leaned over and re-read that section of the article. "Perhaps Fleur told her? She was there."

Harry frowned. "It really doesn't seem to fit..." he went back to reading and got to the part that described Fleur confronting him about his sexuality at the end of the night. It painted it into a much different picture of course, making it look like he had tricked her, and toyed with her feelings, in a way that only Skeeter could pen so skillfully.

"Are you sure that Fleur wasn't really upset?" Hermione asked again.

Harry shook his head. "I really was sure... I'll have to go see her. Talk to her."

"She could just lie to you," Hermione pointed out.

The corner of Harry's mouth turned up into a secret smirk that he quickly pushed down. "I think I can read her pretty well, actually. I'll know if she's lying."

Hermione gave him a skeptical look, and rose a single eyebrow questioningly. Harry, however, chose not to elaborate.

[caffeineivore]

Mako-Neph dedicated to @antivanruffles

Because of reasons. *cough H6H6H6H6H6 cough*

Set in a ficverse not yet published. M/N, mentions A/Z, and Minako. N is a part-time model who’d featured on some cover of some romance novel called ‘His Thundering Highland Heart’ by Katie Satine. Just... sayin’. >.>

**

The atmosphere of the pub is dim and low-key, with wood panelling and a pleasant sort of unpretentiousness, and though Noah doesn’t consider himself a soccer fan, he makes himself comfortable amidst the group currently watching the game on the television screen. Zack, who could only have been more besotted had he actually been the hero of a fluffy teenage rom-com from the ‘90s or early ‘00s, possibly played by a young Freddie Prinze Jr., had left with Amy a few hours ago. Dinner with her mother. And if that wasn’t super extra serious for a guy who’d met a girl two years ago and spent all of three days with her…

But then again, Zack, despite being generally easygoing in that amiable midwestern way, could not be swayed from his path once he’d made up his mind, and his mind was apparently made up. Certainly it was serious enough for him to buy a plane ticket, book a hotel, and travel across an ocean to find this girl again. Noah had come along to keep him out of trouble, of course, and also to be able to say that he’d been to Europe.

The weather, of course, leaves something to be desired. And no one knew a damn thing about football-- oh, excuse him, AMERICAN football. Not the David Beckham stuff. But the beer, he had to admit, was superior. Europeans knew their way around a damn brew.

“Oy! What are you doing here?”

Noah swivels his head over in the direction of the shout, and grins. Even a borderline-rude question like that sounds sexy as hell in that Irish accent of hers. Amy’s roommate is tall and stacked in the best of ways, a stunner from the top of her curly head to the bottom of her boot-clad feet. “Oh, hey. Just chilling. Grabbing a beer and a bite to eat, since this is walking distance from the hotel. Zack’s hanging out with Amy, but I’m sure you already knew that.”

“I did.” Mary Kathleen takes a seat across from him, and he sort of appreciates the directness of it rather than a dance-around asking for permission to sit as though she had any less right to be there than he did. “I had to coax the story out of her last night, but I’d known something was different. She’s always been a quiet girl, but she’d come back from summer hols two years ago and I’d just known something had happened. Nothing bad, but just significant, all the same. She’s never been the sort to pine after a lad, you know. Too sensible, by far. But she’s happy to see him, still. Quite happy indeed.”

“Oh, they’re adorable together, and he’s a lovesick puppy, and someday, I have a feeling you and I will be Maid of Honour and Best Man, respectively, at their wedding,” Noah quips, only half-joking. “I’d heard the story, of course, from Morgan. She was sort of there in Italy when it happened, and was probably the first witness to their storybook romance. She’ll be happy that it worked out, I’m sure, and that your friend didn’t have to call security to throw my friend out.”

“‘Tis funny to hear you talking about one of the most famous supermodels in the world like she’s just another bird, though I suppose to you lot she would be.”

“Morgan’s pretty down-to-Earth for being who and what she is. But Zack and I are also not as deep into this whole business as she is.” Noah finishes his beer, then playfully flexes his biceps. “I’m surprised you recognized me, actually. The, uh, picture on that cover has my face in profile.” The picture in question also had most of his chest bare aside from a tartan covering only a small area for modesty. Noah doesn’t remember too much else about the book in question aside from it being set in the Scottish highlands in the Middle Ages and was quite popular with its target audience. Lots of bodice-ripping, undoubtedly, by Laird Carmichael of the shirtless tartan fame.

“It’s the hair, and the pecs.” Unapologetically, Mary Kathleen taps a knuckle on his chest and grins, even as the barman brings her her own beer. “‘Twas not a bad look for you a’tall.”

“Thanks. You saying so makes the several hours spent with baby oil covering all exposed skin on my body worth it.”

She laughs-- a full-on, belly laugh, not a girly giggle, and orders some food. He joins her and does the same.

**

Three or four beers later, they’re both tipsy, and jolly, and embroiled in a friendly debate over local foods from both their hometowns. Noah tries to explain exactly what a chimichanga is, and he’s not quite sure that he’s successful, but he does agree that as mildly horrifying as a Scotch egg looks at first sight, it’s pretty damn good. And much to his relief, Mary Kathleen does not seem like the depressing sort of girl who’d order a garden salad, dressing on the side, for dinner and then look mournful and hungry for the rest of the evening.

They talk, mostly about school, though also about their friends. Mary Kathleen majored in Electrical Engineering, and there’s enough commonality with his own major, Physics, that there’s room for shared stories about uppity TA’s and labs and the like. They’re both far from home-- she’s originally from a tiny village called Carran, in County Clare, before she’d moved to London at the age of fifteen. He’d lived in Sedona, Arizona until moving to New York City for school and work, and both of them agreed that the crowded, busy, big-city life was not for them.

They eventually leave the pub together, and she walks with him back to his hotel. He pulls out his phone at the door, and gives her his best smile. “So that was fun.”

“It was. I wonder if our friends are back yet? Amy’s not really the sort to do anything naughty, but he is awfully pretty. And there’s that whole pent-up two-years’-worth-of-longing.”

“Zack’s not the type to do anything naughty either, nor the type to pressure a girl into it if you were worried about that. He’s surrounded by beautiful women all the damn time in modeling, and sees enough sleazy shit to never want to go that route, himself. He’ll never do anything to hurt your friend if he can help it, and that’s even if he weren’t besotted, which he totally is.”

“That’s good to know.” Mary Kathleen relaxes fractionally, and Noah knows, without her saying so, that the reassurance assuages a protective streak within her. She doesn’t comment on it, though, and instead holds out a hand for him to shake. “You’re not bad company, for a Yank obsessed with Mexican food.”

“Nor are you, for an Irish girl obsessed with half-naked Scotsmen,” he returns, taking her hand in his and holding on. “So since we’re now buddies and I’m not an idiot like Zack, do you have a phone number or email or Facebook or something? You know, so we can keep in touch and gossip about our friends and all that.”

That gets another one of those wide, cheeky grins. “If I give that to you, am I going to get any more half-naked kilt pics?”

Noah laughs so hard that his stomach aches with it. “I don’t know, do you want any?”

[dorthyanndrarry]

Seven Steps -23-

tags: eighth year, drarry, fluff, swearing, drama, melodrama, angst

suggested rating: teen and up, for heavy themes

Seven Steps on AO3 || Seven Steps on Wattpad

- Part 1  - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5  - Step 6  - Part 7 - Part 8- Part 9 - Part 10  - Part 11  - Part 12   - Part 13  - Part 14 - Part 15  - Part 16 - Part 17  - Part 18 - Part 19 - Part 20 - Part 21 - Part 22 - Part 23 (you are here!) - Part 24 -

Draco watched Castor and Pollux carrying their burden through the dim dawn light, resting his arms on the stone arch and shivering faintly as a cold breeze stung his cheeks. He scrubbed his eyes wearily and yawned, wishing he could just do what Severus had and increase the dosage of wolfsbane as the potency faded. Then again, Draco was fairly certain Severus had done it that way because he enjoyed watching Professor Lupin choke down more and more of the awful potion every day leading up the full moon. It seemed unethical to say the least, but Severus wasn't exactly a nice man.

The sound of brisk footsteps made Draco turn his head, “Good evening, Headmistress.”

“Good evening, Mr Malfoy,” McGonagall said briskly as she walked over to stand beside him, “Still having 'nightmares'?”

Draco nodded, “Yes, they still crop up quite regularly.”

“I hadn't seen you recently. I was starting to think you'd been given a reprieve?”

“I...” Draco nudged his sleep-addled mind to try and put this cleverly in a; we're not talking about me brewing wolfsbane every month except we are, sort of way, “the dreams weren't quite as bad for a few days.”

McGonagall nodded.

Draco was just tired enough to ask something he'd always wanted to know, “Why are you up this late, Headmistress?”

McGonagall glanced over at him, “It's my duty to make sure the castle is safe and secure, it's just as well to do it when I'm feeling restless.”

Draco looked down at his hands with a grimace.

“We've all made done things we've regretted. I believe it's what we do afterwards that is most telling of our character,” McGonagall said.

“Some have a lot more to regret than others,” Draco said with a bitter, humourless smile.

McGonagall squeezed his shoulder briefly, “You're doing well, Mr Malfoy. I've been very pleased to see your progress.” She turned back towards the stairs, “Now, back to bed with you or you'll end up dozing off during lessons.”

“Yes, Headmistress,” Draco said, nodding to her in thanks as well as goodbye and heading back to the dungeons.

“You know how I promised we'd go together to Hogsmeade this weekend?” Pansy said with utterly unconvincing nonchalance as they slowly walked out of the common room to go to breakfast.

“You mean the one in two days? The last weekend before the winter hols? When we were going to finish our shopping and enjoy getting out of this merlin-forsaken castle? That promised Hogsmeade weekend?” Draco said.

Pansy frowned at him, her cheeks puffing out slightly in indignation, “Yes.”

“Go on then,” Draco said generously.

“Melanie and Jenna asked me to come along with them,” Pansy said.

“Who?” Draco asked.

“Um,” Pansy smoothed her immaculate hair nervously, “They're seventh-year Hufflepuffs.”

Draco bit down on his automatic desire to mock them and nodded for her to go on.

“During sixth year, you were so distant, and everyone was so tense, and sometimes I'd see Mel and Jen in the loo, and we'd talk about make-up and nail polish, that sort of thing, and they got sent to america for their sixth year, so they missed worst of it and we sit together in advanced charms theory...” she trailed off, tugging a lock of hair, “They're nice and they've never invited me along with them before.”

“First off,” Draco said, “you owe me-”

Pansy rolled her eyes but smiled faintly in relief.

“Second, you'll take my emergency portkey with you.”

“What?” Pansy froze.

Draco took a few steps before realising she had stopped and turned back, “Just as a precaution.”

“I can't take that,” Pansy said.

“Pansy.”

Pansy stomped up to him. “I just can't,” she hissed, “You're not supposed to have it. If I use it they might throw you in- I can't.”

Draco said, “They're Hufflepuffs, so I doubt you'd have to-”

“I'll have my wand-”

“Wands are not reliable,” Draco said, unable to keep the undercurrent of anger out of his voice, “They break, they get lost, they're easily stolen and then what will you do?”

Pansy eyes widened.

Draco took a step back, forcing the swell of sudden emotions down. “Sorry, Pans,” he said faintly, hurrying down the hallway.

Pansy ran to catch back up, grabbing hold of his arm to slow him down, “Fine. I'll take the portkey, but I won't use it unless I absolutely have to... and do I owe you one.”

“Perfect,” Draco said, slowing down as they came into the great hall and looking around, “I'll be taking that favour now.”

“You'll what?” Pansy said, following his gaze and dropping his arm like it was toxic, “I don't know what you're planning, but I want nothing to do with it.”

“Too late, you agreed,” Draco said, taking a deep breath to fortify himself. He grabbed Pansy by the wrist before she could escape and pulled her along to the Gryffindor table.

Potter had Weasley and Granger on one side of him, Longbottom on the other and most of the bench across from him was entirely unoccupied.

Draco sat directly opposite Potter, holding onto Pansy's wrist in a death grip until she stiffly sat down next to him, hissing in his ear, “You're dead to me.” Whilst the entire table looked at them with a mixture of disbelief and growing anger which Draco did his best to ignore.

Draco put on a cheerful smile he did not feel in the least and said, “Good morning, Potter.”

- Part 1  - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5  - Step 6  - Part 7 - Part 8- Part 9 - Part 10  - Part 11  - Part 12   - Part 13  - Part 14 - Part 15  - Part 16 - Part 17  - Part 18 - Part 19 - Part 20 - Part 21 - Part 22 - Part 23 (you are here!) - Part 24 -

♡ Tags below ♡  (I don’t have a permanent tags list. All tags are of the wonderful people who left messages on the previous part.)

♡ I hope no one minds that I’ve rather wandered away from the story’s original theme. I just really want to explore Harry and Draco’s relationship and see how it develops naturally. ♡

♡ @dcriojas8 Thank you for a great comment and for Track lol ♡ @crumblesoffudge Thank you so much♡♡♡! ♡ @dark-kesem  ♡ @dracohasmycat it was harry’s turn to die of embarrassment ♡ @jasmine-tw ♡ @feed-my-geek-soul ♡ @contemporarydiva ♡ @nakedxcity Thank you! I’m glad you like it♡ ♡ @mea-momento ♡ @cotton-fioc Thank you!! ♡ @potter-harreh Thank you! You’re just wonderful♡♡♡ ♡ @satanrealblog ♡ @oceanaged ♡ @slytherin-bunny ♡♡♡!    ♡ @animelover-jayla ♡ @trashgirl334 ♡ @dewitty1 a single grain of rice is all that separates Ron and Draco from true broship lol and thank you♡!    ♡ @iiodeliaii soon, very soon ♡ @lilyinthebreeze ♡ @danadoodleknits Yes! ♡Thank you♡! @rararae ♡ @opps-i-dont-mind-hi ♡ @drarrybitcheshisshiss ♡ @octaviathevictoriandragon thank you ♡ @livetsomidiot Thank you!!! ♡ @bespectacled-phoenix ♡ @choccy-milk-third-cousin ♡ @bluepoliceboxwitch ♡ @maleckawaii thank you♡♡♡ ♡ @reckless3eauty thank you for an amazing comment♡ ♡ @bethejohn-tomysherlock thank you!♡ @assassinsdragons thank you, you’re so kind♡♡♡!  ♡ @drarrypandafriend ♡ @rmh8402 thank you so much!!!! ♡ @magicalferret welcome back, and I’m glad i could make you laugh♡ ♡ @bluewerewolfprose ♡ @nerds-and-nebulae Thank you♡♡♡ ♡ @gold-from-straw ♡ @expensivebee ♡ @donttake-my-loki ♡ @that-psycho-nextdoor ♡ @prince-ofdragons ♡ @arrow-guy thank you so much! ♡ @rose-grangerweasleyisbae ♡ 

[cynthiabryanuk]

20 Of The Most Popular Autumn Holidays In The UK

We analysed all rental bookings on Holiday Lettings from September to the end of December, identifying some of the most popular autumn holiday destinations in the UK, according to our travellers.

Great Autumn Holidays In The UK

It’s that time of year again when the leaves turn stunning shades of russet, copper and gold and the smell of cosy open fires is in the air. Imagine waking up on a crisp, autumnal morning at a private holiday rental where you can do as much, or as little, as you choose? It’s the perfect way to relax and make the most of this beautiful season.

The traditional holiday hotspots, like London and Edinburgh, are great. But for something a little different, read on. Here at Holiday Lettings, we’ve put together a list of 20 autumn holidays you might not have thought of, but are getting plenty of attention from our travellers. From Whitby’s dramatic coastline to Tenby’s seaside charm, we’ve got hundreds of holiday rentals to suit every taste and budget – all you need to do is choose your favourite!

#1 Tattershall, Lincolnshire

This historic village in the Lincolnshire fens has so much to offer, it might well become one of your favourite autumn holidays. Visit the 15th-century Tattershall Castle where you can explore the fortified manor; one of the best surviving examples of English medieval brickwork. On a clear autumn morning, the views of the countryside from the battlements are exceptional.

If you’re feeling energetic, try the obstacle course at Tattershall Lakes or, for something more relaxed, head to the Kinema in the Woods. This unique two-screen cinema has been projecting flicks since 1922. And to top it all off, Tattershall Farm Park will keep the whole family entertained for hours.

Find a rental in Tattershall for an action-packed autumn break

#2 Whitby, Yorkshire

When it comes to autumn getaways, Whitby should be high on your list. Whitby Abbey, with its Gothic architecture, is even more atmospheric on a misty autumn day. And between Wed 25 – Tue 31 October, the abbey will be illuminated with dramatic lighting – you might even see Dracula stalking the ruins!

Families will love the historical attractions, such as the Captain Cook Memorial and Whitby Museum. Visiting with your other half? Head to the picturesque Robin Hood’s Bay, with its sweeping sea views and eye-poppingly beautiful cliffs, for a romantic stroll. All this makes Whitby one of the best autumn breaks around.

Whisk yourself away to a stunning Whitby holiday home

#3 Bath, Somerset

Bath’s tree-lined streets make this charming city a great choice for autumn holidays, when the hues of gold, russet and brown make an appearance. Meander through the city, browsing the fantastic independent shops before warming up with a freshly brewed coffee at one of the many cosy cafes. Feeling peckish? Try a tasty treat with a fascinating history at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum.

Other must-dos on an autumn stay in Bath include taking a dip at the Thermae Bath Spa open-air rooftop pool, a picnic in the leafy Alexandra Park and a day out at the Jane Austen Centre. Here, you can dress up in Regency costume and find out more about this world-famous author’s life and works.

Choose from hundreds of autumn breaks in Bath

#4 Chester, Cheshire

One of the main draws for visitors to this cathedral city is Chester Zoo. It’s the most visited zoo in the UK, home to 15,000 animals and 500 different species, so it’s well worth a visit. Soak up the city’s history exploring the Roman city walls and gaze in awe at the stained glass windows of Chester Cathedral.

In the autumn months, Chester hosts a plethora of events including the MBNA Chester Marathon, an antiques show and an arts fair. Whether you’re a lone traveller, family, couple or large group of friends, you’re sure to find a rental to suit.

See all autumn city breaks in Chester

#5 Aviemore, Scotland

With its breathtaking mountain scenery, abundance of wildlife and spectacular lochs, this picturesque town in the Cairngorms National Park is one of the best autumn holidays for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Sports, such as skiing, mountain biking and horse riding, are popular pastimes here. And in the quieter autumn months, you’ll often feel like you’ve got that mountain you’re hiking up all to yourself!

It’s not all walking boots and compasses in Aviemore, though. If beer is your tipple of choice, visit the Aviemore brewery where you can sample some locally brewed beers. Head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park where the whole family can ride roller coasters, explore the labyrinth and admire insects in the butterfly house.

Make Aviemore one of your best autumn holidays with a cosy cottage rental

#6 Filey, Yorkshire

Sitting pretty on the North Sea Coast between Scarborough and Bridlington, this traditional seaside town makes the perfect autumn holiday destination. The long, sandy beach is unspoilt and the nearby facilities—such as cafes, arcades and restaurants—make it perfect for families. The nearby Glen Gardens, with its park and wood carvings, make a great spot for a picnic en route to the beach.

If you’re partial to a good single malt whisky, the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery will be just your cup of tea. For a great night out, head to the Evron Centre to see some live music before stopping for a nightcap in one of the many traditional pubs. Filey has something for everyone, so why not make this pretty seaside town the place for your next autumn holiday?

Find a fantastic holiday home in Filey

#7 Tenby, Wales

Pastel coloured houses, cobbled streets, boats bobbing in the harbour… there are not many seaside towns as picturesque as Tenby. But it’s not just about looks; there are so many things to do in Tenby you’ll want to come back every year for your autumn escape!

The beautiful beach with its cliff views is a must, as is the Tenby Lifeboat Station – kids will love getting up close to the magnificent, life-saving vessels. Step back in time at the Tudor Merchant’s House where you can try on some Tudor clothes and discover more about the life of a middle-class merchant. If you’ve an appreciation for art, Tenby has plenty of galleries selling works by local artists. Treat yourself to a special souvenir as a reminder of your holiday in Tenby.

See all holiday homes in Tenby

#8 Llandudno, Wales

Another spot perfect for autumn holidays in Wales is the coastal town of Llandudno. Zip over Great Orme in a cable car and enjoy stunning views of the limestone coast and sea. Or, if you prefer to be a bit closer to the ground, the views are also pretty spectacular from the tramway. Take a romantic stroll along the pier where you can stop for a drink or browse the independent shops.

The Great Orme Copper Mine is a geological marvel and a must-see for anyone interested in the Bronze Age. For an action-packed day out, take the family to Llandudno Ski Slope. Here, you can try your hand at tubing, tobogganing and even alpine golf! This will be an autumn escape to remember.

Look for a family-friendly stay in Llandudno

#9 Inverness, Scotland

This Scottish city is ideal for an autumn holiday as there’s always something to do, whatever the weather. From perusing the pieces at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to exploring the leafy Botanical Gardens, you’ll be hard pushed to fit it all in! The castle and cathedral are well worth a visit and children will love the playground at Whin Park.

Stroll along the River Ness and visit the eye-catching Eden Court Theatre on the way. And, if walking and whiskey are your thing, take in the beautiful scenery around the Tomatin Distillery before popping in for a ‘wee dram’ and a tour. The landscape in this area is jaw-droppingly beautiful in autumn, so book your break in Inverness today!

Search for your ideal rental in Inverness

#10 Weymouth, Dorset

Weymouth has been a hit with visitors for decades and it’s just as popular as ever. Autumn is a great time to visit if you like things a bit quieter but still want plenty to do. The Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, with its extensive range of plants and trees, bursts with russet reds, copper and gold in the autumn – definitely worth exploring. Weymouth beach is just as delightful in the autumn, and the unspoilt Chesil Bank beach is atmospheric and romantic.

Kids will love days out in Weymouth and they certainly won’t have time to be bored! The Sealife Centre gives children the chance to get up close to the creatures of the deep and the spectacular Sandworld Sculpture Park will have them in awe. A trip to Sandsfoot Castle is a fantastic experience for any age and the sea views from the gardens are a highlight.

Stay for a week (or two) in a Weymouth holiday rental

#11 Belfast, Northern Ireland

Culture vultures will be in their element in Belfast as it is packed full of striking art galleries, cutting-edge restaurants and fascinating museums. It’s also home to some beautiful architecture. Hop on a tour bus or explore on foot to see the city hall, parliament buildings and the opera house. And a holiday in Belfast isn’t complete without a day out at Titanic Belfast: a museum dedicated to the ship’s fateful voyage.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Belfast is the place to be! See some filming locations for the seven kingdoms such as the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Cushendun Caves (400-million-year-old caves used in the show).

Book an autumn escape in Belfast

#12 St Andrews, Scotland

This charming seaside town is steeped in history and its prestigious university boasts Sir Chris Hoy and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge among its former students. If golf is your game, the course here has amazing coastal views and is a great challenge for any golfer.

Other must-sees include the beautiful botanical gardens with over 8,000 species of flora and fauna, and the ruined castle and cathedral. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic break in autumn or a half-term holiday for the family, St Andrews is an excellent choice.

See all rentals in St Andrews on Holiday Lettings

#13 Scarborough, Yorkshire

Probably one of the most famous seaside resorts in the world, Scarborough has been wooing its visitors for over 400 years. No wonder they keep coming back – there’s never a dull moment in this picturesque seaside spot. Discover the history of Scarborough Castle, take a stroll along the prom and pop into a traditional amusement arcade. Feeling peckish? The fish and chips here are scrummy and taste even better when you’re sitting near the beach looking out to sea.

Head to Scarborough Sealife Sanctuary to see Humboldt Penguins, the Common Octopus and even the Lesser Spotted Dogfish! Adventure awaits at the Go Ape obstacle course in Dalby Forest and, if you’re feeling brave, don a wetsuit and ride the waves on a surfboard at Cayton Bay.

Find a rental in Scarborough for your next autumn break

#14 Bridlington, Yorkshire

This elegant coastal town with its award-winning promenades, stylish restaurants and independent shops is perfect destination for an autumnal break away. The Old Town was the filming location for the 2016 film, Dad’s Army. Here, you can wind your way through the cobbled streets that have a Dickensian feel, before popping into a traditional tea shop for a brew and a slice of cake.

At the beach, kids will love the fun fair, amusement arcades and donkey rides. Bondville Model Village will have them enthralled and the Sewerby Hall and Gardens will keep them entertained all day. There’s mini golf, a land train and even a zoo! Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch under the shade of an autumnal tree.

See all holiday homes in Bridlington

#15 Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Experience a piece of Olde England when you explore the well-preserved streets of Stratford-upon-Avon, one of the UK’s most loved historical towns and best autumn holidays. Simply take a stroll and admire the Tudor buildings before meandering along the river. Or maybe hire a boat and row to a picturesque bank where you can unpack the picnic hamper.

For an unforgettable evening, book tickets for a Shakespeare play at the world-renowned RSC before enjoying a nightcap at one of the town’s quaint pubs. On a chilly autumn day, warm up at the Butterfly Farm or take in a film at the Picture House.

Book an affordable holiday rental in Stratford-upon-Avon

#16 Kendal, Cumbria

Looking for a new winter wardrobe? This picturesque market town has some fabulous shops where you can buy everything from elegant antiques to walking boots. On the subject of walking, you might want to tuck into one of Kendal’s renowned mint cakes if you’re planning on scaling some of the local peaks. The trees and lakes are stunning in the autumn so be sure to take your camera!

There are plenty of things to do in Kendal so it’s great for families wanting to get out and about. See if you can find your way out of the expansive Lakeland Maze, explore the ruins and soak up the atmosphere at Kendal Castle, or visit Levens Hall and wander through the exquisite Elizabethan gardens.

Stay in Kendal this autumn at a family-friendly holiday rental

#17 Winterton-on-Sea, Norfolk

Unspoilt, pretty and peaceful, this picture-postcard village on the coast is a top pick for an autumn escape. Both Hemsey Beach and Horsey Beach are stunning and, if you’re lucky, you might just spot a seal in the sea. For more wildlife-watching, pop a pair of binoculars in your bag and join a boat trip where you might see cranes, dragonflies, kestrels and much, much more.

A few miles up the road, you’ll find Lost World Adventure Golf which is a favourite with groups of friends of families looking for a fun afternoon out. Other must-dos in the area include the fascinating Time and Tide Museum with its maritime exhibits and Happisburgh Owls where you can learn about, and handle, these beautiful winged animals.

Find your favourite rental in Winterton-on-Sea

#18 Whitstable, Kent

With its scenic harbour, maritime history and delicious seafood, it’s easy to fall in love with Whitstable. And as the town is famed for its oysters, an aphrodisiac, you might just fall in love in Whitstable, too! The shops here have a bohemian charm and you’ll find independent craft shops, artisan bakeries, delicatessens and more.

Whitstable Castle and Gardens, with its sweet-scented flower gardens, is the perfect place for a romantic stroll. And if you’re thinking of popping the question to your significant other, the wistful Tankerton Beach is gloriously serene.

Love is in the air this autumn at a Whitstable rental

#19 Broadway, Cotswolds

Nestled in the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds, this charming village with its thatched cottages and cosy pubs is a fantastic place to stay, whatever the weather. The horse-chestnut lined streets look especially beautiful in the autumn and, on a chilly day, stop for a bowl of soup and warm up by a roaring fire in one of the traditional pubs.

If you’ve got children in tow, be sure to visit the Broadway Playground – it’ll keep kids of all ages entertained. And for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, head to Broadway Tower with its galleries, gift shop and cafe.

Choose a rental in Broadway for your autumn getaway

#20 Lincoln, Lincolnshire

This historic cathedral city is lively, friendly and has a brilliant cultural scene. Find out about Lincoln’s amazing history with a visit to the cathedral, the castle and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life. If you’re feeling energetic, stomp your way up Steep Hill weasily takhere you’ll be rewarded with quaint cafes, interesting shops and Norman architecture.

Doddington Hall and Gardens will eat up a day as there’s lots to do here, from letting the little ones explore the ‘fairy dell’ to discovering the history of the Elizabethan hall. Why not stock up on some local produce at the market before heading back to your self-catering rental to cook a delicious feast?

Look for a great rental in Lincoln

*Popularity reflects the number of holiday rental bookings so far in 2017, for stays occurring between 21 September and 22 December, according to Holiday Lettings’ data.

The post 20 Of The Most Popular Autumn Holidays In The UK appeared first on Holiday Lettings Blog.

from News And Tips For Traveling https://blog.holidaylettings.co.uk/autumn-holidays-uk-popular/

[corkypixielott-blog]

Landing at college or school will dismay for everybody.

 For some it might mean living far from the parental home interestingly, which all alone might overwhelm enough. So here you will discover tips on the best way to survive Your First Semester At University or College You will probably have a hundred inquiries and a hundred feelings of trepidation; what will it resemble? Could I adapt to the workload? Will I have the capacity to fit in? It might realize that everybody will feel comparable, however some may shroud it superior to anything others.

Constantly by far most of freshers will be wonderfully astonished. The University or College will be populated by an expansive assortment of individuals, from numerous strolls of existence with a various scope of viewpoints and conclusions. Look past the underlying bounds of your school, house or dormitory, the foundation will have numerous more individuals who will have comparative interests to yourself. A portion of the tips we have gotten from different understudies:

1. Meet the greatest number of individuals as you can, present yourself, grin and be certain. Everybody is in almost the same situation whether he or she has all the earmarks of being or not.

2. Act naturally. Genuine companions will need to know you for your identity, warts what not!

3. Keep your feelings about others to yourself until you know whom you can trust

4. Take your washing to the clothing. Try not to spare everything up to reclaim home to mum at the hols. She truly won't need five minging dark packs to see to.

5. Have a decent time

6. Join a couple of social orders at first week fairs. In case you're not certain it's for you but rather are intrigued observe an email/contact location to get more points of interest later. Its occasionally elusive the right contacts later, it's a major spot.

7. Telephone home and let your family know you're OK, (regardless of the fact that you don't precisely feel it). They're presumably more stressed than you are.

8. Everybody feels no less than somewhat achy to go home at to begin with, and stressed or just on a down. Converse with new companions you feel you can trust, and possibly compose/call companions at home.

9. You're at Uni for a couple of years, benefit as much as possible from it, it's over before you know it. At that point you'll miss the opportunity and long occasions.

10. Stay in contact with family and companions at home, email is most effortless.

11. Try not to hang round with one little gathering disregarding other people. You'll pass up a major opportunity for the possibility of making other great companions too.

12. Truly don't be thoughtless with your cash - it is the little additional items here and there that have a method for rapidly depleting your financial balance!

13. Try not to give peer a chance to weight transform you into a lager beast; you don't need to drink constantly. On the off chance that companions have an issue with you requesting sodas when you need, they're most likely not the companions you require. Drinking soda pops is simpler on the pocket, also more beneficial.

14. Brew sessions. It's a smart thought to leave the lager until the weekend when you haven't got the opportunity to stress as much over making some kind of breakthrough the following day.

15. Try not to let everything get contained. Converse with some person, family and companions or an understudy line. Being far from home, particularly surprisingly can make you feel well forlorn and lost. Discussing it for the most part places everything into point of view.

16. Cooking. The curry house on the corner may do understudy specials. Take-away burgers may a simple alternative when you have a pile of work to do. In any case, your cash won't see you through the term. It truly will resemble discarding it. Take a stab at cooking. Get a couple of nuts and bolts in, salt, pepper, sauce blend, (runs with everything). In case you're house sharing, maybe contribute. Veg stews are truly simple, gut-filling and modest, particularly on the off chance that you go to the veg shop. You'll locate a decent cookbook worth the venture as well. Approach the bookshop for one for the providing food understudies course! It'll have everything regulated.

17. When you're going out for the night. Take the same amount of as you need, or need to spend. It's anything but difficult to have a couple of more lagers when you've as of now had a couple.

18. Clubs and stuff, all charge a joining an expense or pay-as-you-go. They are phenomenal for meeting individuals, letting loose a little, getting welcomes, discovering something to take your brain off your subjects for 60 minutes or two. In any case, they can scarily affect your pocket. While you might need to take a stab at climbing, sky plunging, hockey and bows and arrows, adhere to a couple you know you'll like and will have the capacity to stay aware of. You won't have time for every one of them at any rate.

19. Live your first year as well as can be expected, you're just a fresher once.

20. The ""B"" word. When you have a fat understudy credit in your bank adjust, the most straightforward thing to do is spend it, it's simply staying there tingling to be utilized. Don't. (On the other hand starve) There's this word you'll know exceptionally well when you leave University ''Budget''. Prepare so you don't wind up with an excessive amount of obligation. Take a seat and work out what you have coming in, what needs to go out, rent and so forth. On the off chance that there's anything exited over separation that by how long until the following check clears. At that point a large portion of that; you will require alarm cash some route down the line. Keep in mind there's dependably stuff you'll require that you don't put in the monetary allowance, stuff you simply neglect - cleanser, photocopying, and toothpaste.

[hra-devine-blog]

IC Photo - Hallowe'en Bash

She’d coated herself in fake blood from head to toe, her long golden mane replaced with an inky black jagged style. It had been Karam’s idea that they go as Sweeney Todd and Ms. Lovett for the bloody masquerade. He’d shown her the film last summer. They strode into great hall together, arms linked and her tray held out in front of her. “Meat pie, dearie!” She’d call out as she scanned the costumes in the room. She’d slide her arm around his waist and push up on her tip toes to peck him on the cheek. “Lets go get punch.” She’d say, both of them unaware it’d been spiked with bishops brew, it heightened current emotions and turned up the rage flares in veelas. The night was filled with chaos and confusion.

All the punch was talking, obviously….not to him nor her, but alas that had been the culprit of his jealousy “If you /knew/ it would be a problem why were you insisting on being here and doing the absolute most?” his words were quite inconsiderate but he couldn’t tell. She’d been pulling people in left and right. She’d hadnt even tried to hold back her charm. Though she hadn’t realized it, the bishops brew had taken her happy through the roof.

Hunter threw her hands up to her head in exasperation only to ball her hands into fists as her palms started to itch. ‘no!, no’ now!’ she’d scream in her head at her tingling hands, they’d been starting to heat up, veela magic threating to bubble to the surface. “Oi ain’ purposely tossin’ out mah charm willy nilly! Oi am doin’ mah best tah hol’ it back! Oi insisted on bein’ ‘ere ‘cause oi ‘ave every righ’ tah be! if oi wanna dance an’ be mahself dan oi’ll bloody do it! Yah ‘ave no righ’ tellin’ me how tah act when yah can’ even understan’ “ Karam had mostly started an inaudible argument between the two as he spoke over her as well; not as loudly, but his voice was still presently weaved into the music. “I was being polite! You know, something you should /learn/ to do, Hunter.” he’d just insulted his girlfriend. Boy, would this be wonderful. He hadn’t noticed the balling of her fists; even then he was unsure if he would have continued speaking or not.

Her nails would claw into her palms as she restrained against a natural instinct. “If dat is what yah tink dan why are yah even with me! Yah’ve known me dis long an’ now yahr sayin’ dis!” One of her worst fears and insecurities would come bubbling out “oi still affect yah sometimes, dats it isn’ it! or ‘ave yah jus’ had enough of dealin’ with da attention from everyone else!” She woul’ bite down on her lip hard “Oi bloody knew it!” she’d say as she tore her mask off. She’d swipe up the cup she’d set by the fountain and drink it down. This was cup number 7 of the unknowingly spiked bishops brew and she was spiraling into herself. She would step closer to him pulling his mask off if she was able.

He had his lips pressed together; by doing so he’d hope he’d say nothing he’d regret. He would sigh as she yelled; he himself tired of yelling “Look, Hunter – yes! Yes, you bloody affect me. Why act oblivious to the fact?” his words cut through the air. He hadn’t been yelling, but only speaking loud enough to where she could hear “And yes, I get jealous of the attention. I’m jealous now.” he’d say as if that wasn’t obvious. She was for once speechless, for a moment. “oi don’ know wha’ yah wan’ me tah do! What am oi supposed tah do! Oi can’ bloody fix it.” She would sit down on the edge of the fountain shoving her hands into it. She continued to angrily bite on her lip. Karam sat beside her, his arms resting over his legs as he looked to the ground and also to anyone who looked at them. ‘Well, this is embarrassing.’ he’d think to himself having completely forgotten where they had been when the two of them were arguing “Nothing. I know.” he’d say, his fingertips then pressed together before his hands would simply fold into each other. “It’s who you are. And I like you….” he’d shrug, not making much sense.

Following a release of breath and some silence “Still staying here?” he’d ask, looking over to the table where their friends sat before looking her in the face for the first time in minutes. She would shake her head “oi don’ know if oi shoul’, look at me! Oi’m a tidal wave!” Her hands were still in the water, in an attempt to curb the sensation in them. “Dis is mah own faul’.” When she finally looked up at him to see him staring back at her maskless. In one night she’d jumped from extreme happiness, to anger, to sadness and now this….Her blue eyes fluttered briefly before she threw herself at him, lips meeting his.