#i love living on the coast i get so much FRESH seafood...!

[neetily]

i want crab so bad guys you don't understand... crab and shrimp... i NEED seafood to survive.... but i dont go shopping until monday.... alexa, this is so sad....

[wuxiaphoenix]

Worldbuilding: Where Do You Want?

If you had a fresh new Earthlike planet to claim, what part of it would you want, and why?

As someone with multiple food allergies and a love of fresh fruit, I’d want the bits that gave me a maximum chance of things I like to eat. So - hopefully a good north to south expanse, allowing for foods from the tropical to the not-so-much.

On an ocean or river of both for fish and other seafood, especially if we can import kelp and seaweed to grow, or take advantage of a local equivalent. Near some kind of pasturage for meat; though in a pinch there’s at least one breed of sheep that can live on seawrack with little or no grazing. Deserts, dry inland areas, and frozen tundras are not my thing. Too hot, too cold, too dry. I like air that if it’s hot you can chew it, or cut it with a knife.

There’s a second reason you’d want places to grow food. Presume your colony is still in touch with the rest of the galaxy. What are you going to trade?

Keep in mind that whatever it is, it has to be worth shipping out of a gravity well. That narrows the options. Gold, diamonds, platinum? All stuff you can mine out of asteroids and not have to lift from a well. A new colony probably also won’t have a factory set up for, say precision parts not easy to get elsewhere in the galaxy. Those would likely also be more profitably made in orbital colonies and asteroid belts.

What your planet will have? Specialty organic products.

Seriously, look up terroir, and all the snits wine and whisky makers get into trying to get exactly the right results from grain, grapes, soil, and weather. High class chefs will swear by fruit from this orchard, tomatoes from that valley, fish caught off one particular coast.

In a huge galaxy, life is rare. The products of life, even more so. Amber, coral, pearls; silk, cashmere, byssal threads. All of these we can simulate, but there will always be people who want the real thing.

Want it enough to get it transported across the galaxy? Absolutely. What do you think wealth and power is for?

Pick your planetary settlements appropriately. And keep a watchful eye on galactic trends. Sometimes people try to corner the market the old-fashioned way. You know; bribery, violence, lawyers.

And that can give you all kinds of interesting plots....

[abiteofnat]

If you’re reading this, I’m coming back to Chicago, beetch

The non-existent rumors are true. After a brief 10-month exit from the city to soak up the fresh air and social distance-friendly suburbs, I am now returning to Chicago as a single, slightly more anxious version of myself. While I’m still trying to kick some of the anxiety and OCD that COVID-19 pushed from “lifelong tagalongs” to “all-controlling demons”, I feel 97% ready to be back where I feel most myself, and cannot wait to welcome that change. While that 3% still makes me a little uncomfy and hesitant, I’m a believer in pushing your boundaries to allow yourself to grow, and also, I am really sick of suburbs food. 

Ha! I joke. I wouldn’t move downtown simply for access to more diverse & higher quality food... or would I? All I know is while there are plenty of gems in the North Shore, I’ve eaten take out from all of them ten times over, and I did not foster my dislike of cooking out of nowhere. My parents do not enjoy cooking, my sister pretends to enjoy cooking, and I will cook if it is 5 ingredients or less. My latest speciality is a toasted bagel with butter, hummus, and EBTB seasoning. Voila. So when it comes to dinner, we are living off of a carousel of suburban favorites, and are losing steam as we are still not comfortable with dining inside (or dining inside in the city, where the fun food is). 

All of this to say, it’s exciting to imagine what life is going to be like in a few short weeks. While I’m still extra precautionary, I can’t wait to have my own space downtown, where I can enjoy coffee on my little balcony (!!!) and dream of the days friends can come squeeze into my studio safely while I lay out an entire table of sharable spreads and snacks from Ema (Charred Eggplant Spread is the best one, don’t fight me). 

So you may ask, how did you come to this decision to move to the heart of downtown out of seemingly nowhere, you hermit? 

It starts with my mom and I having a brief, simultaneous breakdown and coming to the conclusion that we would both feel comfortable doing a staycation downtown, as long as we wore masks, sanitized always, and braved the cold to eat outside. This was big for me! As a person with real OCD, not cute TV show “I have to keep my pens straight” OCD, this would be the most exposure I’d had to a lot of uncontrollable variables since the pandemic started. If you’re thinking, “you get to spend a weekend downtown in a hotel with your mom, shut up”, know that I hear you. I am unbelievably grateful that I’ve gotten this time with my parents, and that we can do a staycation. However, having anxiety comes at a cost, and that cost is blowing everything way the fuck out of proportion instead of being able to rationalize it sometimes. Let’s! Normalize! Having! This! Discussion!

So, we went downtown in early March for a two-night stay, and oh my goodness. The realization that we got to be in a different space, and do different things, and eat different food for a weekend made it feel like a legit vacation, and not like we drove 30 minutes to get there. The view from our room was of Michigan Ave, and hearing the traffic and seeing the people out and about instantly made me feel a sense of peace I wasn’t expecting. I’ve lived downtown for 6 years, but it always shocks me how much the city feels like an extension of me once I’m in it after being away. My mom and I went out for a walk (gentle yet forceful reminder to please wear a mask), then decided to grab dinner while we were out. The plan was to bring it back to the room, but there was a warm spell, and there just happened to be a table for two at Topolobampo on Clark, and suddenly we were sitting on the patio under the lights eating masa quesadillas dipped in a spicy salsa verde. It just happened!!! 

Before getting downtown, I was tentatively looking at apartments for the spring. I was looking at Lincoln Park, Old Town, maybe Lakeview, and came across a listing in the Gold Cost that caught my eye. That one was swiped out from under me within days, but I couldn’t stop thinking about the area. Then I discovered another unit that was available, and couldn’t shake it from my mind. Over mushroom tacos I discussed it with my mom, and we decided to go see it. Totally not what I had been planning for in terms of location, but why not? 

Once we polished off breakfast the next morning (Eggs Benedict with fried eggs, extra hollandaise) we headed out to see the place. Let me say I have never seen my mom fall in love with a single apartment I’ve lived in, and she was ALL. FOR. IT. Unreal reaction on her part. Once I saw the west-facing views and the incredible natural lighting, I was 100% in as well.

We spent the rest of the weekend wandering the downtown area, enjoying another dinner outside at The Gwen and my mom’s first visit to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, which was 95% more empty than I’ve ever seen it given we went in a pandemic at 8:30PM. Shit on Starbucks all you want, but that Roastery is an incredible use of space (in non-pandemic times) and the coffee & Princi pastries are really, really good. 

When we got back home feeling refreshed and like we had actually gone on a vacation, I jumped into apartment shark mode real fast and signed as many documents as the very kind realtor could send over. One week later, whabaam, I was a Gold Coast girl. Ahem, *lady*. What better way to celebrate than going to Somerset and having the Rapini & Roasted Garlic Flatbread and Wild Mushroom Risotto? No clue. As I sat outside, yet again with my mom, I felt a wave of excitement come over me and realized, this is it. This is the sign and feeling I’ve been waiting for, telling me it’s time to move back to the city and start over. The creamy, herbacious risotto also helped solidify that. 

SO. After all of that, the news is I’m moving, and you’re probably wondering why I shared all of this on a blog about food. I meant for this post to be about everywhere I ate during my staycation, but realized quickly we ate at some very basic places - DELICIOUS, but still basic. Oops. Below are all the dishes I had and a rundown of the flavors, textures, etc., however don’t expect to find any new, revolutionary restaurants. Sorry! 

1. Topolobampo 

This Rick Bayless restaurant has been around forever, and unfortunately, you can tell by the interior. We’ve eaten here as a family a couple of times before, but never had a noteworthy experience. I can confirm that in a pinch, the patio covered in fun lights & mini piñatas, and the sharable, filling bites will do just fine. This was my first time going to a Mexican restaurant as a non-alcohol drinker, and instead of my typical mezcal margarita, I opted for a Fresh Limeaide which was refreshing and flavorful. We split the Guacamole and Chips, which if you’ve ever stopped at the Frontera in O’Hare, you know is good as fuck. It’s smooth, creamy, tangy, and topped with chopped onions and cilantro for a little crunch. It’s not the most life-changing, but it is consistently satisfying. Next, we got the Mushroom Tacos and Masa Quesadillas. The Masa Quesadillas were a fun surprise, as instead of a tortilla, the masa is what makes up the outside. They are almost like empanadas and stuffed with gooey, melty cheese, and come with a spicy salsa verde on the side. I would come back for these alone - they’re rich yet light, warm, and comforting, all the things you would want when dining outside when it’s still a little chilly. The Mushroom Tacos were quite frankly unreal, because whatever they seasoned the mushroom slices with and grilled them on made them taste unlike any mushroom I’ve had before. There was definitely some meat crossover on the grill, so don’t order those if you’re vegan, or ask them to prepare the mushroom separately. I however was LOSING MY MIND. Over mushrooms. The joys of being vegetarian! 

2. The Gwen

On a happening Saturday night in Chicago, Upstairs at The Gwen is sure to be a packed scene. Located in River North, this hotel bar/restaurant offers a somehow cozy rooftop filled with loungey couches, fire pits, and ambient lighting, even though you’re surrounded by apartments and skyscrapers and there is nothing “cozy” about River North. Every table was filled, yet since you’re outside and it’s fairy spread apart, it still felt safe. I got my new classic, a Lemonade, and we got the Burrata to start. With sourdough, roasted beets, squash, pomegranate, pistachio, & arugula, this plate was nothing short of mouth-watering. It has textures! It has flavors! It has pomegranate seeds, the TikTok must have of the moment! The bread was 10/10, the burrata was 8/10, and all of the toppings made for a very find bite of salad on their own. For my main I got the Lobster Fettucine, a beautiful bowl of “charcoal fettuccine with saffron-tomato sauce, lobster, calabrian chili butter, and basil-brioche crumbs” as listed on their website. Take any of those ingredients and it’s going to be delicious, but all of them TOGETHER? INCREDIBLE. The chunks of lobster were huge, absolutely making the dish worth its price tag, and the sauce was flavorful, unique, and unlike any sauce I’ve tasted in the last few years. It’s typical to do a squid ink pasta with seafood and tomato sauce, but the saffron added a new element I very much appreciated. 

3. The Starbucks Roastery 

I KNOW. THIS IS A TOURIST DESTINATION. All I am saying is if there’s no line, go get an iced latte with two packets of sugar in the raw. That’s all. It’s really good after something like, I don’t know, Lobster Fettucine. 

4. The Penninsula 

You cannot go wrong with hitting up The Penninsula for breakfast or brunch, especially if you are staying there and have the option to do room service. Typically we would go to Pierrot Gourmet, the cafe in the ground floor of The Penninsula, however it has been closed temporarily. If there’s one thing to order with your breakfast, it’s the smashed fingerling potatoes. Delish. 

5. Somerset 

Somerset is becoming a quick go-to of mine for an impromptu dinner downtown, given it’s in the heart of Gold Coast and is cute if you’re sitting indoors or outdoors. The food is nothing too innovative, but it is done well, which is the most important part with “cuter” restaurants that may focus on the Instagram appeal over the food sometimes. Each time I’ve gone I’ve gotten the seasonal flatbread and a pasta or risotto, usually something with mushrooms, and it’s always been plate-licking good. To drink, I got -you guessed it- a Lemonade! For dinner I went with the Wild Mushroom Risotto which was everything you could hope for in a risotto, topped with olive oil, herbs, and local parmesan. We split the Rapini & Roasted Garlic Flatbread which was as it sounds, flatbread covered in rapini, garlic, and ricotta, which added a nice crunch and had enough rapini to feel like it was replacing a boring vegetable side dish or salad. The patio vibes were wonderful, the judgemental girls in the greenhouses looked like they were having a good time, and our waiter couldn’t have been sweeter. I will be going back to try the Fontina Arancini, which I just noticed on the menu. FRICK. 

So there you have it, a very long-winded explanation of the last few weeks of my life and where you can find me on a staycation in Chicago. Hopefully once I move back to the city I’ll have endless new spots to try and won’t be basic anymore! 

Until next time, Happy Eating!

-Natalie 

[girls-scenarios]

Time and Time Again

Idol: Nako (IZ*ONE)

Prompt: Hi!! Can I request a scenario where you are a traveler, so you and Nako always coincidentally meet up while travelling and you eventually decide to travel together. + a kiss

Writer: Admin Kiwi

A/N: I love travelling so I was excited to write this AU. I hope you all enjoy!

♡ Tip Jar♡

The first time you met her, you were in Bangkok, Thailand, taking shelter from the sudden rain in a cafe on the hottest summer day you’d ever experienced in your life. As you stepped inside, your wet hair clung to your face and a welcomed chill went through your body as a blast of cool air hit your damp clothes, momentarily cooling you down. The cafe was crowded with other people just like you, rushing in to get away from the rain, and you looked around for a free table, shifting the weight of your backpack from shoulder to shoulder as you ordered a coffee in broken Central Thai.

Once the coffee was in your hand, you slipped further into the cafe, dodging larger groups and cursing the rain for pausing your day of exploring Rumbuttri Road. There were no tables open, but you spotted a single bar stool at the window and quickly walked over to claim it before anyone else could. As you sat down, placing your backpack on the floor underneath you and hoping nothing inside was wet, the woman on your right turned to look at you with a smile.

“Did you get caught outside too?”

You jumped a bit, not expecting anyone to talk to you, and glanced over, only for your heart to skip a few beats. The woman was small, with her wet hair pulled back into a low, messy bun at the back of her neck, and had the cutest dimpled smile you’d ever seen. A backpack similar to yours, just smaller and more purple, sat at her feet, and you collected yourself, realizing that you were talking to a fellow traveler.

“O-oh, yeah, I did. I totally forgot to bring my umbrella because it looked so sunny today. You’d think after years of travelling I’d learn better.”

She let out a soft laugh. “Same here. I’m usually better prepared than this! I’m Nako, by the way.” She held out a hand, and you took it, smiling back at her.

“I’m (Y/N). You’re a traveler too, I take it?”

“I am. I work out of Japan writing travel guides and posting photos and tips to Instagram. What about you?”

“I write guides as well. I go places that my followers are curious about and give them tips as well as photograph and sometimes video my experiences. It’s a great job.” You gestured out the window, where the rain was still pouring down. “Although sometimes I’m forced to take unwanted breaks.”

“It’s kind of fun though, isn’t it?” Her bright smile didn’t fade as she looked out the window, stirring her drink. “Even though I have to be inside, I get to meet other travelers or locals. It’s nice to try local places, relax, and chat a little. Plus, I love a little spontaneity!” Her positivity made you glance back outside, watching the rain with a new gaze. The street was now mostly empty, but inside of the cafe was cool and bustling with activity and chatter. You might have never stopped here if you didn’t get caught in the rain, and you had to admit that you liked the coffee. Plus, you might not have met her without the rain.

“I like that outlook,” you said with a smile, pulling out your phone. Maybe the rain wasn’t so bad. “You said you were on Instagram, right?”

-

A few months later, you found yourself wandering around the Amalfi Coast, trying to find a certain ice cream and yogurt shop a few of your followers had asked you to visit. It had recently been featured on a travel show and people were eager to see if it lived up to the hype, but you could hardly tell them if you couldn’t find the shop. Usually, you would be grumbling by now, but the scenery, the fried seafood you’d just eaten, and the feeling of the cool ocean breeze on your skin kept you in high spirits as you wandered through the pretty side streets, your eyes peeled for a little yellow shop sign.

As you walked, you looked at your phone, using the tagged photos of the outside of the shop as reference. You had the feeling that you were close as you stopped to study to roofs of the houses around you. They looked familiar, and when you turned a corner, you saw a sign that made you smile. You’d found the road the shop was on. Proud, you went to turn off your phone, only for a username in the tags to catch your eye.

It was Nako. And she’d just now posted.

“The ice cream already looks so good, I can’t wait to try it!”

Well. This was a pleasant surprise. Smiling, you made your way up the street and quickly found the yellow sign, hanging over an old yellow door with a bell at the corner. When you pushed the door open, you were met with the smell of fruit and she sight of Nako at one of the small tables in the corner. She looked up at the sound of the bell and her eyes widened.

“(Y/N)?”

“I saw your photo and figured you would still be here,” you said with a grin, waving at her. She was more tanned than she had been a few months ago, most likely from her recent trip to the Bahamas, but she still looked just as cute as she had when you first met her, especially in her loose floral sundress. A smile spread over her face as she jumped from her seat (just as tiny as ever) and waved you over.

“What are you going here?” She asked, opening her arms for a hug. The two of you had been talking over Instagram since Thailand, so it felt like hugging an old friend.

“I’m doing the same thing as you are, I’m sure,” you said as you pulled away, holding up your phone. “Travelling for my followers.”

“I guess I should have known that.” She giggled, and you remembered how much you’d loved the sound of her laugh when the two of you first met. “Oh, you should order something! The ice cream here is amazing!”

“So I’ve heard. Mind if I put my bag down here?”

“You know I don’t.”

Soon, you came back with your own order, only to raise your eyebrows in surprise. She’d already finished half of her cup, and you were impressed.

“How did you eat all of that without getting a brain freeze?” There was a playful lilt to your voice as you sat down across from her and she flushed, tucking her long brown hair behind her ear.

“I like ice cream and I eat it a lot, so I can eat it really fast.”

“That’s impressive.”

She giggled again, much to your delight. “Thank you!” After you took your first bite, she spoke again. “How do you like it?”

“It’s incredible,” you said truthfully. “It tastes so fresh.”

“Right? This place is totally worth the hype.”

“I agree, even though I had a hard time finding it.”

“Same here, but the walk is worth it, don’t you think? Such a beautiful view.” She sighed as she looked out the window. The shop was angled so that one could see the ocean out the front window, past the other buildings on the cliff side. “It’s romantic, don’t you think?”

It was your turn to blush as you glanced out the window and nodded. “Yeah. I bet the sunset is nice around here.”

“Want to see if we can find a spot after we finish? My followers are always looking for secret spots to watch the sunset.” She smiled widely, her dimples showing, and you couldn’t help but smile back, knowing that your review of this spot would be especially sweet.

“That sounds like a great idea!”

That night, you returned to your lodging with the sweet taste of fruit ice cream on your tongue and a photo of you, Nako, and the sunset on your phone.

And maybe you were biased, but the sunset had been especially beautiful from where you stood at Nako’s side on the cliff’s edge, staring out over the sky blue ocean.

-

A month later, at the night market in Kenting, Taiwan, you weren’t even surprised when you saw her familiar figure in the crowd, ordering food at a stand. Instead, a rush of happiness went straight to your heart and a smile came to your face as you approached her.

“I think our followers overlap,” you said, making her jump and spin around before bursting into laughter. It was somehow pretty when she did it, running her hand through her hair while the other held her skewer of fried milk.

“You surprised me,” she said, her face bright under the streetlights. “But I kind of had a feeling I’d see you again soon.” She held out her arms and again you accepted a hug, feeling like you were seeing an old friend. “Try some fried milk,” she said as she stepped back and gestured at the stand. “Seriously, it’s amazing!”

“I never thought I’d try something like this,” you responded truthfully, “but I trust you.” Pulling out your wallet, you stepped up to the stand, amazed as the cook pulled out a skewer of frozen milk, coated it, and dropped it into the fryer. The smell was amazing, and you were excited to try it when you picked it up, blowing on it as you stepped back over to Nako and started to walk with her.

“Thoughts?” She asked as you bit into it, giggling at your face.

“Hot,” you said, sucking in air to try and cool it off. After you got over the heat, though, the cold milk hit your tongue and your eyes widened. “It tastes like ice cream! So that’s why you like it!”

“Bingo!” She happily took another bite, humming at she ate, and you found yourself admiring her satisfied expression. How was she so beautiful?

“Are you headed anywhere after this?” You asked, hope tinging your voice, and she shook her head, sending you a grin.

“No, why do you ask?”

“I was going to invite you to spend the rest of the night with me. I know a great place for drinks nearby. Only if you want to, though.”

She giggled again and took your arm, making your heart go wild as she looked up at you. Did she know how cute she was? “I’d love to.”

-

-I saw your followers asking you to go to Kyoto. I know Kyoto really well, I can show you around if you want!

When you woke up to Nako’s message over Instagram, your heart started to pound. She was inviting you to travel with her, that had to count for something, right? Especially with the time the two of you had spent together, most recently accidentally meeting up in Australia and going on an outback tour together. The two of you had been talking nonstop since you met, and the feeling of friendship you felt for her had developed into something... more. You couldn’t help being hopeful that this invitation and the way she had smiled at you before the two of you parted ways in Australia meant that she felt the same.

-That would be awesome! I have a feeling we’d run into each other anyway 😂 so we might as well travel together.

-Right? That’s what I thought! Plus, I’ve been wanting to travel with you anyway so it’s a win-win for me!

Butterflies started up in your stomach and you grinned like an idiot, now fully awake.

-Same here. When are you free for Kyoto?

-I get back from Korea two weeks from now, does that work for you?

-Works for me! Just send me the details and I’ll book a ticket. Your wish is my command!

-Lol just put your trust in me, I won’t let you down!

The string of emojis she sent afterwards just further brightened your day and you got out of bed with a spring in your step, daydreaming about Kyoto. You had never been so excited for a trip before.

-

Even though the flight to Kyoto was long, the bubbling excitement in your chest wouldn’t go away. Nako had told you a few things, such as where you’d be staying and how long you’d be there, but she’d left most of her ideas up in the air, answering with a little “hm, I don’t know!” when you asked about the trip. If it was anyone other than her, you might have gotten annoyed with someone else planning a trip for you. With Nako, though, you found yourself having fun. You trusted her and knew she would make a trip you enjoyed.

When you finally got off the plane, dragging your luggage with your eyes searching for her, your mind was full of possible spots she would take you to and your body was almost vibrating with anticipation. It took you a moment to spot her in the huge crowd, but when you found her, she was standing on her tip-toes and waving, and you felt a smile spread over your face. You had never seen her in a autumn clothes before, but the oversize pink sweater she had on somehow made her look even cuter: probably because she was already so tiny.

“(Y/N), you made it!” She called, throwing her arms open as you walked over to her and pulling you into a tight hug (you were starting to really like her hugs). “I’m so happy to see you again!”

“It’s been a whole month,” you said playfully as you pulled away and gave her a once-over, butterflies going crazy once again. “Did you hair grow even longer? How does it grow so fast?”

She giggled and tucked her hair behind her ears, a flush on her cheeks. Cute. “I think I just use the right products. I’m thinking of cutting it soon, since it’s getting in the way when I try to free travel.”

“I’d miss your long hair, but I know you’d look good with short hair too.”

“Really?”

“For sure.”

“Thanks.”

For a moment, the two of you just grinned and stared at each other, before bursting into giddy laughter, amused at the situation.

“You’d think that after seeing you once a month I’d stop feeling nervous,” she said, and your heart rate spiked. What did that mean? You didn’t have time to ask her, though, because she quickly turned and gestured towards the doors. “Come on, I have a car waiting for us and we have a long day ahead!”

-

Nako knew how to plan a trip. Every minute was accounted for, and she’d chosen the spots that she knew you’d enjoy. Kyoto was beautiful, especially in the fall, and her hand in yours as she showed you around warmed you from the inside, keeping you warm even when the wind caught at your hair.

The first day consisted of a tour of the city: Nishiki Market, street shopping, the perfect view of the Kyoto tower, hidden cafes, a river walk, and dinner at one of the oldest restaurants in the region. By the time she brought you back to the ryokan you were staying at, you were exhausted, your feet hurting in the most satisfying way.

Half of you had hoped that she would stay with you, but of course, she said goodbye and gave you a hug, telling you to meet her outside bright and early in the morning.

As excited as you were, you fell asleep as soon as you laid down, a smile on your lips as you dreamed about the possibilities tomorrow might bring.

-

The second day started with a walk through the bamboo forest that left you breathless. By the time you left, you were sure you’d taken a hundred photos: of both the bamboo and of Nako, who blended right in with her light green sweater. After that, you found yourself on a train ride and doing a blur of other outdoor activities that made your well-earned dinner taste incredible.

The days seemed to blend together in a rush of wonderful moments, of beautiful scenery and Nako’s sweet giggle and foods you’d never tasted before. You walked through temples and visited a sea-side village and laughed as you rode a lift up a mountain, watching Nako whine about the height. Everything was just perfect in every way, but before you knew it, it was the last night of your trip and you were sitting across from her on a train towards an smaller traditional town outside the city.

“The scenery out here is so beautiful, I don’t think I’d ever be able to get used to it,” you commented as you looked out the window, watching as splashes of orange, red, and yellow appeared on the countryside.

“It’s a beautiful place,” Nako agreed, a smile on her lips. She’d been smiling this entire time (aside from when she got splashed by an octopus while the two of you were at the seafood market) but you still couldn’t get enough of it. She was so cute that your heart squeezed every time she sent that dimpled smile your way. “But I think all of the places we visit are beautiful in their own ways. We live in a beautiful world.”

“We do,” you said, gazing at the way the evening sun cast shadows over her small face. For a while, the two of you sat in comfortable silence, enjoying resting your feet in the warmth of the train and watching the scenery go by. As you watched, you thought back over the trip and wished it would never end. You’d had more fun with her in the past few days than you’d had in a long time, and you found yourself not wanting to leave her side. In fact, you kind of wanted to spend forever with her, and that feeling was kind of intimidating. Especially since you didn’t know how she felt about you.

“Where are we headed?” You asked, finally breaking the silence to get away from the thoughts that were beginning to make your heart pound.

“We’re headed to Kinosaki. It’s a beautiful town. There’s a ryokan there with private onsen baths and the food is incredible. I thought I’d treat you since it’s your last night here.”

“Haven’t you been treating me this entire time?” You joked, making her laugh.

“I guess so, but shouldn’t we go out with a bang this time?”

She was right about Kinosaki being beautiful. You could smell the sea as you stepped off the train and the air was cool and crisp: perfect for bathing in an onsen. Like you’d been doing since the beginning, you let her take your hand and lead you as you enjoyed the scenery.

It was only when the two of you reached the ryokan that it hit you: was she suggesting that the two of you get into an onsen together? Your face flushed and you gripped your backpack, suddenly feeling light-headed. You weren’t ready for this.

“Here we are! The best ryokan in Kinosaki.” She grinned and waved her hand, apparently oblivious to your plight. “Tonight is going to be a treat, just you wait!”

“I-I bet.” You followed her inside, in awe at how beautiful everything was. There was a garden outside, and when you went inside, you saw the spa sign. This place really was high end.

“Hello, I had a reservation for two rooms with private open-air baths under the name Yabuki Nako.” Ah, so she had reserved two rooms. That made sense. You weren’t sure whether to be disappointed or relieved.

“Of course, we’ve been waiting for your arrival. Just follow me.” The clerk stepped out from behind the desk and guided the two of you down the long hallway until you reached two sliding doors, side-by-side. “Here are your rooms, Ms. Yabuki. Please let us know if we can help you in any way.”

As he walked away, you raised your eyebrows at her. “How were you able to get two rooms side-by-side? I’ve heard of this place, it’s really hard to get any rooms here!”

“I might have flexed my ‘famous travel blogger’ muscles to encourage them to get us the rooms I wanted,” she said, a mischievous grin on her cute lips, and you couldn’t help but laugh.

“I figured as much.”

“Go in and explore your room! We can eat dinner together and since the baths are right next to each other, we can talk without it being awkward.” She opened her door and stepped inside and you followed suit, stepping into your room and glancing around as you took off your backpack.

It wasn’t the biggest room you’d ever stayed in, but it was nicer than most, immaculately decorated and spotless. At the back of the room was another sliding door and you could see the steam of a private bath through the panels. Curious, you walked back and opened the door, taking everything in. It was small and definitely meant for a one person bath, but you couldn’t help chuckling to yourself as you thought about how small Nako was. With her, it was definitely a two person bath.

There was a knock at your door, and you walked back to see her standing outside, her face bright and expectant. “Well?”

“It’s beautiful. I love the private bath. This is probably one of the fanciest places I’ve ever stayed.”

Obviously proud of herself, she grinned. “I knew you’d like it. Do you want to eat or take a bath first?”

“Honestly I’m not hungry yet, and the bath is calling my name.”

“Same. Meet you outside?”

You flushed despite knowing there would be a barrier between the two of you. “S-sure.”

Once you were ready, you sank into the warm water and let out a content sigh. Your sore muscles immediately felt better, and the chill from the air kept you from overheating. It was perfect.

A splash and similar sigh told you that Nako was in too, and you moved so that your back was towards the barrier, as close to her as you could get.

“This is amazing,” you said, “thanks for bringing me here.”

“You’re welcome. I wanted to try it too, after all.” She let out a giggle, and you tried not to imagine what she looked like in the bath, her face flushed from the heat. “So did you like my itinerary?”

“I’ll give it to you, you know what you’re doing when it comes to travelling. Everything has been great. I can’t even chose a favorite spot.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” She paused for a moment, and you could hear more splashing. “It’s sad that you have to leave tomorrow, though. It feels like this week has gone to quickly.”

You leaned back and watched the steam curl up into the sky. The stars were beginning to come out, twinkling and winking down at you as if they knew something you didn’t. A wind blew through the trees, rustling the leaves and causing some to fall to the ground, and somewhere in the ryokan, you could hear people laughing and talking. A dog barked somewhere far off and a bird returned its call as the nearby sea brushed against the sand, loud enough for you to hear but still faint to your ears. Your heart squeezed in your chest and you closed your eyes, sinking further into the water.

Was the world always this beautiful, or were you just in love?

“I almost wish I could stay forever,” you said truthfully, voice loud enough for only her to hear. “I never want this night to end.”

There was a soft splash on her side of the barrier, then a sigh. “Yeah,” she said, her voice equally soft. “Me too.”

-

After the bath, it was time for dinner. You let her into your room, breath catching in your throat at the sight of her in a yukata, her hair in a loose bun and her face still slightly flushed and damp from the bath. You were reminded of the first time you met her in Thailand, and the thought made your heart squeeze.

“You look nice,” she commented, looking you up and down, and you blushed, glad you’d put on the yukata hung in your room.

“Thanks, so do you.”

“Thank you!” Her giggle echoed in your ears as the two of you sat at the table, waiting for dinner to be brought up. “You know,” she said after a moment, “we could always do this again.”

You were caught off guard. “Do what again?”

“This. Travelling together, I mean. Our destinations usually match up anyway. And it’s nice to travel with someone else for a change.”

“It is.” You’d been thinking the same thing, but until she brought it up, you weren’t sure if she’d want to. All you wanted was to see her again, and the two of you hadn’t even separated yet. “Where were you thinking of going next?”

“I’m not sure. You know, I’ve never been to Austria, but I’ve heard it’s a beautiful place.”

“Should we visit, then?”

She smiled and opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by a knock at the door. Dinner was served.

-

She had been right about the food being amazing. Not only was it served course by course, making you feel like royalty, but it looked and tasted incredible. You almost didn’t want to swallow as you ate, wanting to savor the tastes forever. By the time dinner was done, you were full and happy, knowing you would rave about the place when you got around to your review.

“Did it live up to your expectations?” Nako asked as she finished the rest of her tea, and you nodded, glancing at the photos you’d taken of the food.

“I already want to eat it again, it was that good.” You grinned at her. “Thanks for this, Nako. I had an amazing time.”

“You’re welcome.” Her smile was soft and affectionate, and it made your heart skip a beat as she reached across the table to give your hand a quick squeeze. Just as fast as her touch was there, it was gone, and she was standing up. “Well, we have to be up early to get back, so we probably shouldn’t stay up too late.”

Words lumped in your throat as you stood up with her, and you were overcome with a feeling you’d never felt before. You weren’t sure how to describe it, but it was like a chill, telling you that you had to say something now, or you’d forever regret it. Your hand moved without your permission, and you gently grabbed her wrist, making her eyes widen.

Immediately, nervousness washed over you, but you swallowed and steeled yourself. You had travelled the world and encountered all sorts of situations, you could tell her that you liked her.

“(Y/N)? Is something wrong?”

“N-no.” You took a deep breath. “I just wanted to tell you something. Since I have to leave tomorrow and I might not get to say it again.”

Her cheeks turned pink as she looked up at you, her eyes wide with expectation and... hope? “W-what is it?”

“I like you.” The words tumbled out on their own, and you were almost relieved that they did. “Actually, I might love you. I’ve realized my feelings even more while traveling with you and I just wanted to let you know. It’s okay if you, um-.”

“I might love you too,” she said, her dimples appearing as she cut you off and stepped closer. Your heart raced and relief washed over you as you smiled so wide your face hurt.

“Really?”

“Really. I’ve liked you for a long time, actually. I just never knew if you felt the same way.”

You were breathless again, staring down at the woman in front of you. She felt the same way. It wasn’t just you. “Well, I do.”

“I see that now.”

A rush of confidence washed over you as she giggled, and you took her other hand in your own, a thrill rushing through you when she squeezed your hand in return. “Will you stay with me tonight? Since I have to leave tomorrow? I don’t mind if I don’t get any sleep. I just want to spend as much time with you as I can.”

She stepped in, closing the space between the two of you, and as her lips met yours you allowed your eyes to flutter closed. It was a short, chaste kiss, but a promise of more to come as she hugged you, pressing her racing heart against yours and speaking in a light, lovestruck whisper. “I was hoping you’d ask me to stay.”

[m42-fr]

Some FR Food Headcanons

Inspired by a thread on FR, I may or may not have accidentally written up a massive column of text on the various foods of Sorneith. I’m gonna copy-paste it here! Also gonna reblog with some headcanons from other users on that thread, so I can keep track of the ones that I really liked.

Lightning: In a more modern world, I'm absolutely certain somebody's invented the equivalent of Soylent (the meal replacement, not people). A quick, efficient meal that you can live your entire life off of, liquid and flavorless. Most people try to get some real food in whenever possible, but a particular strand of dragons absolutely swear by the stuff and spend their entire lives subsisting on it. Lightning cuisine also has a wide array of shelled creatures, including crustaceans, beetles, and armadillos. Many traditional dishes use the hollowed-out shells of these animals as bowls, while others utilize the bowl as an edible element. Dragon jaws are strong, and many texture-based eaters love the feeling of the shell cracking between their teeth.

Fire: Firstly, as a spice lover, I 100% support the notion of Fire having super spicy food. Secondly, it should be worth noting that I personally headcanon a large chunk of Fire's territory being covered in humid tropical rainforests, nourished by the rich volcanic runoff and the moist sea winds blowing in from both sides. Climates are basically as far from realistic as you can get in this game, so really, anything goes. With that in mind, I personally headcanon a lot of Fire's cuisine to be like Indian food, especially the advent of curry and the usage of an insane amount of spices. Having such fertile farmlands lends itself well to the growth of all sorts of exotic spices, and even if you don't personally share my headcanons, it's easy to say that since it borders Wind, it could ship in spices from there. Also, Fire residents absolutely boil their coffee like this. No exceptions. Which brings me to Wind. If Fire is India, then Wind is China and/or Japan. Seriously, having that sort of aesthetic already, it's very easy to say that their food might be like that as well! I think they 100% have rice, and they might have a wide variety of spices as well - if Fire grows their own spices, then the two Flights likely trade their spices very often with one another. The Wind flight is artistic, creative, and adventurous, and their food is no exception. Wind has one of the greatest amounts of imported food, and it's well-known that they have some of the best and most well-traveled chefs. Wind, having a border on two large oceans, also likes to make sushi, seaweed wraps, and other seafood-based items. There's an interesting cuisine difference between the coasts and the mainland - the coasts tend to rely less on spices and more on meats and rice, while the inland likes to pack their food with spice, and loves to utilize doughy recipes like dumplings and noodles. Arcane food is very sugary. Faes have a special sweet tooth and a hankering for honey in particular. Arcane food is also very showy - the more colorful, the better! Many professionally-made dishes will even utilize inedible elements, such as crystal chunks and gold flakes, to really make a dessert pop. Arcane is also the home of food-based magic. Instead of potions, crafters will cover cupcakes in frosting runes, and mix magically-infused powder into their dough. While lacking the long-term storage potential of a bottled elixir, there's no arguing that magical confectioneries are significantly tastier. Their most popular use is in the realm of light pick-me-ups and mild painkillers. Why take a pill for your headache when you can just eat a magic cookie instead? Shadow food focuses heavily on texture over appearance. In the dark, the way food looks doesn't matter much - it's how it feels in the mouth that counts. Unsurprisingly, many of its dishes utilize mushrooms as a primary ingredient, and slow-roasting is a popular way to bring a dish to perfection. Shadow also absolutely loves puddings, and one of its most famous dishes is a dark, sludgy, tarlike stuff laced with dark chocolate and mint. Very filling, and so sugary that getting all of it down without making yourself sick is a challenge. Earth food is plain, but hearty. Tubers are the most common type of food; potatoes, carrots, leeks, onions, and other ground-growing plants are common. There are few traditional meat dishes, as meat is exceedingly rare. Earth food lacks many spices, but has an abundance of one critical substance: salt. The territory is home to massive salt flats that can be mined for their salt, and this alone makes up the backbone of its trading economy. Earth flighters love their salt - there's essentially no dish in their repertoire that doesn't use it to some capacity. Plague cuisine tends to favor strong, meaty flavors. They like their meat juicy, bleeding, and fresh. Given the land's propensity towards hunting parties and scavenger behavior, dishes tend to be local. Cooking is quite widespread, though. Most notably: stews. Plague dragons almost invariably boil their water before they drink it to rid it of potential diseases, and eventually somebody got the bright idea to drop some bits of food in the water as it heated. Plague is adaptive and will use whatever foods they find in their stews, so again, recipes are local, but a wide variety of meats are the most common. Bordering Wind, Plague also imports a very high amount of spices. Their region lacks the widespread farming arrays that would enable it to make spices on a large scale, and many from the flight love the extra kick spices give to their food. Ice food is hearty, with a solid serving of both meats and vegetables, sourced locally. Their distance from the rest of the world means that their food has remained the most traditional and locally-sourced of Flight cuisine, virtually unchanged for hundreds - if not thousands - of years. Most dishes use some sort of meat, typically deer, caribou, or rabbit. With a large population of Tundras, they also grow all manner of vegetables. Many in the Ice flight like to make use of all parts of a carcass, not just the meat. Tools, including utensils, are carved from bones. Hides are used as clothing and shelter. Organs may also be eaten - most of Ice's more 'out there' dishes involve some sort of strange organ, like a deer stomach that's been cleaned out and filled with a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Nature food is also filled with both meat and plants, though has a much higher percentage of fruit-based dishes. Many foods utilize some sort of complimentary fruit, either as a side or as additional flavoring to the primary ingredient. As most inhabitants are the voraciously meat-consuming Wildclaws, their dishes tend to have a high amount of meat, and are cooked and flavored accordingly. Nature dragons like to slow-roast their food, cooking it until the meat's tender enough to rip apart with a fork and practically falls apart in your mouth. I like to think that Nature also is a big fan of sour and savory flavors - many of their dishes utilize things like lemons, limes, and pineapples. Light food isn't the tastiest, but it sure is the flashiest. Of the Flights, Light food is the showiest, and its bakers are exceptionally skilled in the art of making their dishes look the best. Light dragons have a propensity for large-scale feasts and celebrations. They bake insanely huge, mastercrafted cakes, and host banquets filled with exotic dishes from all around the world. Original Light cuisine is heavy on grains and dairy, creating all manner of beautifully knotted breads and succulent cheeses and butters. It also imports the most amount of ingredients and recipes; while it's hard to find a non-Light ethnic dish in Light that's as good as the originals back home, it's typically nothing to shake a stick at. Finally, we have Water. Water - what a shocker - really really likes seafood. As many spices and foods can't be transported properly underwater, they're quite uncommon, found only along the coastline and in the homes of those with the resources to magically ensure that their imports don't get ruined on the way down. They like fresh, raw fish, and probably also create something very much like sushi. They can't roast anything underwater, so they boil it all instead. Cuisine on the few over-land parts of the territory is heavily influenced by its neighbors, Lightning, Light, and Fire, and is just as varied.

[teenyfish]

Marine Biology Story of the Day #11

Hello followers.  Today we are going to talk about a very special period of my life that really drove my interests, opened up doors for me, and gave me a lot of confidence that what I had chosen to do with my life was my calling.

When I was in college, during both my undergrad and my graduate degree, I worked at a small aquarium.  To my young budding marine biologist brain, it was a dream job.  In many ways, it still is a dream job, and I’m glad I got the opportunity to have this experience.

The aquarium I worked for is the Virginia Living Museum, a small, not well known, but somehow magical place tucked into the Newport News woods.  You might know us from our virial photo of an albino catfish with a binky in it’s mouth—it went viral a couple of years ago. Yep, that was us.

Not only are there aquarium exhibits, but there were also reptiles and mammals as well, including a huge outdoor trail where you could see wolves, deer, water birds, otters, etc.  One of the really unique aspects of this museum was that almost all of the animals found here were Virginia native species, and therefore were either animals that needed care or rehabilitation, or, in our case, were caught in VA waters and hopefully eventually released.  

So I originally started volunteering at the VLM at the touch tank, and then I got an opportunity to volunteer for the aquarium department, and then, eventually, around my Junior year, I was offered a part time position as an aquarist. I dove into the experience, and the chaos.  

Our aquarium department was small, but we did have a lot of exhibits to take care of, ranging from a 30,000 gallon salt water aquarium, to our “habitariums” which were large freshwater exhibits built to mimic natural ecosystems in Virginia, the cypress swamp and a mountain river.  We also had much smaller exhibits—some of the smallest being no more than 30 gallons, housing juvenile marine fish, dwarf sunfish, and blind cavefish.

(our Chesapeake Bay Aquarium (above) and our Mountain Cove Habitarium (below))

We were taking care of these animals 24/7, holidays, snow days, weekends. A typical day included getting in and feeding all of the exhibits, and then doing food prep for the next day. We would feed our fish a variety of seafood products, cut up depending on their size and biology—squid, shrimp, scallops, herring, capelin, smelt, mysid shrimp, to name a few.  Then, we would get to work on some water changes—this would involve replacing out 10-50% of the water in an exhibit with new “fresh” water (meaning new water to the tank, not necessarily fresh as many of our tanks were salt water).  When you have biomass in a system (meaning fish, crabs, plants, etc.), these animals release excrement, and bacteria breaking down this waste can release ammonia and nitrates into the water, which can eventually kill fish at high levels, so it is important to exchange water weekly.  In addition, we would scrub algae from rocks and the tank glass, and use a “gravel washer” or a siphon vacuum to suck up un eaten food and waste that gets trapped in the sand or gravel substrate.  We would do 6-7 of these a day, depending on a rotating schedule.  

Now, with the bigger tanks, this meant getting in them in order to clean them.  We would either snorkel or dive, depending on the depth, and so I got my open water dive certification as soon as I could.  My absolute favorite was diving the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium.

Now, along with all of our public exhibits, we had a set of quarantine tanks as well.  A quarantine tank, in the terms of a public aquarium setting, is a place were we can acclimate new fish to tank life.  It allows them to become comfortable with feeding in an aquarium, it gives us time to treat them for potential diseases, and allows the individuals to be as healthy as possible before they get put on exhibit.  We had quarantine tanks for everything—from racks of small 20 gallon fresh water or salt water tanks for juvenile fish, to huge industrial tubs for sharks and turtles.

Some of our fish in quarantine: Juvenile Atlantic Spadefish (top left), Juvenile Smallmouth Bass (top right), Juvenile Black Drum (Mid left), very teeny tiny baby Atlantic Spade fish (mid right), Two of our juvenile Sandbar Sharks (bottom left), a very small (5 in) clearnose skate (bottom right). 

These were often some of my favorite tanks because they were constantly changing out—we were constantly getting new fish and it was always exciting to see new species. It also gave me a chance to get really good at fish identification—including juvenile fish.  Juvenile fish often have much different coloration and even physiology than the adults, so this has helped me in my marine biology career.

This job gave me a lot of cool experiences, but I’m going to give a brief talk about three of our programs that were some of my favorites, and that I got to work on.  I may elaborate these in more detail in later posts, but for now, I’ll give brief overviews.

The first project that we were heavily involved in was the North Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle program.  We would receive young juvenile loggerhead turtles, many of which would become stranded on beaches during the winter months, and care for them, have them on exhibit, but also, feed them and allow them to grow and be healthy.  Then, once the turtles got too big for the tank, or at a certain weight, we would release them, with a tag, back into the Atlantic Ocean. I went through 3 turtles while I worked at the VLM, we would get about one a year.  It was a fun, sometimes frustrating, and rewarding experience to work with this beautiful (albeit, dumb-as-a-rock) animals and see them released into the wild.

(Top: One of our adult turtles on exhibit, bottom: one of our turtles getting a  6 month check up, right: juvenile turtle in quarantine, getting ready to go on exhibit)

Another program that I loved was our Sea Horse Breeding Program.  Sea Horses are notoriously hard to keep in captivity as they are extremely sensitive to contaminants in the water and environmental changes. Breeding them is even more difficult—the babies, when they are released from the dad’s “pocket” are no larger than an eyelash, and even in perfect condition, sea horse babies have a 90% mortality rate.  Our little aquarium had the most successful lined seahorse breeding program on the east coast, we would regularly get baby seahorses to survive into adulthood—and this was mostly thanks to our aquarium curator, my boss.  We also managed to bring in new DNA into the Sea Horse scene by introducing wild-caught seahorses into our breeding population, only increasing our success.  Chances are, if you’ve been to an aquarium on the East Coast, you’ve seen our sea horses.  

(Some macro pictures of newborn seahorses--reminder, these fish are no bigger than an eyelash.  The white dots surrounding them are newborn brine shrimp their food)

Okay, last project I worked on while I was there was our coral reef tank. Now, I know I said before that most of the exhibits held only Virginia native species---well that was true, except for this exhibit.  This exhibit was supposed to represent prehistoric Virginia—as at one point, millions of years ago, Virginia was covered by a warm, shallow, inland sea—and so a coral reef is the closest we could get to representing that environment. I bugged, and bugged, and bugged my boss to teach me about it, to let me re-do the tank, because at the time it was pretty bare of coral, and wasn’t doing great.  He agreed, and together we rebuilt the exhibit—this whole saga probably needs it’s own post.  We drained the entire tank, added calcium and magnesium treatments, added new corals from the Mote Marine Laboratory down in Florida, and slowly but surely, created a beautiful exhibit.

(Top left: finished coral exhibit from above, top right: tank from the front, during our re-build, mid left: xenia coral in quarantine, mid right: spiny lobster in quarantine, bottom left: frogspawn coral in quarantine, bottom right: a shot of our quarantine tank after taking a trip down to Mote Marine Lab in Florida.)

Overall, this was a great experience for me, and I will probably do more posts on it, but I eventually left, because…weirdly enough, it got monotonous.  I think aquariums are great for public education, but I wanted to do more, I wanted to answer questions and solve problems, I wanted my work to impact my world on a bigger scale.  But I will never forget how this place shaped my young career—and I am still, always very excited to go to an aquarium, and I don’t think that is something that will ever change for me.

Now, because of this pandemic, the VLM had to let a lot of their staff go. They are non-profit, and therefore do not have a lot of back up funds to keep the museum running.  They are still open now at low capacity—so if you are in the area, feel free to visit (with a mask of course) and if you are interested, you can donate to this little-museum-that-could here.  And, you can read more about the workings and the past experiences of the aquarium department here, it’s a blog run by my former boss.

Thanks for listening, and as always if you have questions about my experiences or about the animals we housed, PLEASE do not hesitate to ask or comment.

[hellsbovnd]

time away.

wc: more than strictly necessary 2033 focus: leonnaux, ft. edda!

[ PDF MIRROR ] [ ORIGINALLY POSTED ]

The summer night’s air was warm, though not oppressively so thanks to the cool breeze off of the ocean. The smell of the sea mingled here with the smell of food—of fine seafood dishes and, of course, finer wine.

They’d taken a break from the city for a while, Leonnaux and Edda, though the former more-so than the latter. Where Leonnaux was reluctant to even think about his worldly troubles—“I’m on vacation,” he’d say, in the manner of a spoiled child—Edda kept up with her work even during their time away. The single concession that Leonnaux requested was that they’d share an inn room, which was simple enough to provide. Edda spent a lot of time at his apartment when they were at home, even though her work called her to the Mists of La Noscea, so it was more a change of scenery than a change of manner.

But even Leonnaux’s fascination with Limsa Lominsa was short-lived, if fascination was even the word; it was a city he was unfamiliar with, but it was nonetheless a city that he’d spent the past two moons practically living in as he allowed himself some time away from Alizarine and away from The Cloak & Dagger.

So they quit that city too, retreating for an evening to the beach and a seaside seafood restaurant that caught the fish and shellfish that they served fresh, right off the coast.

Where Leonnaux requested the concession of Edda staying with him while he finished out his vacation, Edda had requested the concession of not being dragged kicking and screaming to the Bismarck—in fewer words, though Leonnaux might have you believe otherwise with his playful jeers. It was a request he was reluctant to accommodate given the Bismarck’s reputation as the culinary capital of Eorzea, both a cultural center of fine dining and home to the Culinarian’s guild. But he wasn’t about to force the love of his life into a situation that she would be uncomfortable in, and he doubted that they could enjoy a meal properly with Edda metaphorically looking over her shoulder every five seconds, to make sure she hadn’t caught any unfortunately familiar gazes.

But the restaurant they’d settled on for one of their last nights out before their little vacation was over was charming nonetheless. They were seated in a section built partially over the water, and the incoming waves gently lapped at the posts that held the deck well above the water. The sun setting over the water was picturesque, and Leonnaux still couldn’t believe that there were people who got to behold such a sight every single night of their lives.

He’d told Edda before, multiple times, that he was glad that he could share this sunset with her, and indeed even now it was somewhat of an implied sentiment. He’d reached across the table, beckoning for her hand, which she gladly and wordlessly provided. He stroked slow circles over the back of her hand with his thumb. The sunlight still reflected distantly off of the water, but it was otherwise dark enough that Edda was finally able to shed the sunglasses that she donned when she had to be out during the day—though she of course still donned her iconic hat.

Tonight, like most nights, wasn’t treated like anything special, and even Leonnaux had dressed down (although given how formal his attire usually was, it was a bit difficult for him to dress up any more than he already did on most days) for the occasion. Where usually he’d be in some sort of button-down shirt and suspenders, tonight he donned a simple, loose-fitting white shirt. No longer did he get weird looks from onlookers next to Edda, who tended to dress similarly casually with her coatee and hat and omnipresent leather gloves.

(Instead, they just had to deal with odd looks from the not-small number of onlookers who connected the dots with regards to their relationship: Edda being a Hyur and Leonnaux an Elezen complicated things somewhat, but thankfully they were either too intimidated or too polite to put words to their mind.)

“I wish I could share every sunset with you.” Familiar words, yes; not even twenty-four bells had passed since Leonnaux last uttered the exact same words. They escaped him almost involuntarily, slipping as naturally from his lips as his breath, and he only seemed to realize he’d spoken when Edda looked up at him with a smile.

“I know, Leonnaux.” That had been her response last night, too—a smile, some words of acknowledgement, and a gentle nod. She squeezed his hand a bit and were they not sitting across from each other he was sure she would have pulled him into a loose embrace, as she did a few days ago when he told her that he wished he could share every sunset with her while they were sitting together on the beach, or countless other times before when he’d expressed similar sentiments before they went on their jaunt away from Ul’dah. She knew. Of course she knew. It didn’t take a genius to see the way that Leonnaux looked at her, had always looked at her—and she hoped, would continue to look at her. The sort of genuine affection he was capable of was rare, and something she’d learned well from past experience to appreciate while she could.

He let out a sigh. “I know. I mean—I know you know. I just—” He pulled his gaze away from her and let it settle on the distant sunset, which gave the impossibly clear water the appearance of liquid gold. “This time away’s been all the better because I got to spend it with you. We should do this more, though mayhap not for a moon at a time. Maybe—a few stolen weekends, here and there. We hardly ever get to go out on dates…”

Leonnaux let his hand slip from hers so that he could pick up his glass of wine and bring it to his lips. Edda used the opportunity to retrieve a roll rom the basket that the water had left for them before taking their order and scurrying off to the kitchen. They had already carved through nearly the entire basket, Leonnaux moreso than Edda on account of a quick addiction to the sweet butter that the bread had come with. Edda, meanwhile, had requested regular butter.

“Well, where do you want to go?”

“I—” That was the question it always came to, wasn’t it? Leonnaux exhaled sharply out of his nose. “… I can come up with a few places. I just feel like it would be nice, for a change, instead of spending every night in.”

Edda’s smile lingered even as she tore off part of her roll and stuffed it into her mouth. Her gaze left Leonnaux, finding itself fixed on some undetermined point between the edge of the table and his chest. “Just pick a place and we’ll go. You picked this spot; I’m sure you can find another in Ul’dah.”

“I mean, yeah—I just hoped you might have some suggestions.” His shoulders roll back in a shrug. “You’ve been living in Ul’dah longer than I have.”

“Men of Ul’dah ought to take the time themselves to acquaint themselves with the city.” There was an edge to her smile with those words—almost taunting.

Indeed, Leonnaux had lived in the city for three years now, but he scarcely took enough time to himself in the first place to properly recommend any date spots. No date spots that he didn’t own (The Cloak & Dagger) or that wouldn’t invariably end with him getting wrapped up in work (The Cloak & Dagger, again, or any of the seedier bars he had a propensity to poke his head into on his nights off).

“Fine, fine! I’ll look into it.” He laughs a bit, the sound light from his lips, lighter than it usually was.

—But, that lightness was a consequence of their time away in general. As much as Edda was a proponent of continuing to be productive, to be useful even when physically away from her work, it was hard to ignore the weight that seemed to have been lifted from Leonnaux’s shoulders as a result of his extended time away from both Alizarine and The Cloak & Dagger. Where he was usually reserved almost to the point of being restrained, he spoke freely now, seemed keener on dedicating some small measure of time on creative pursuits rather than purely academic ones, and, hells, Edda had even caught him singing in the shower. Normally he only hummed; she knew he would sing for her if she asked, but only if she asked.

So as much flak as she gave him for not checking his mail—which any reasonable businessman would do, in her opinion, regardless of whether or not he was on vacation, as he so, so often reminded her—she couldn’t deny that the time away from his work was doing him wonders.

The waiter came and brought them their food, then, offered refills for their drinks (they both accepted; Leonnaux was paying, and he’d made it clear when Edda first joined him on his vacation that he would be hearing no objections), and left them to their own devices. Edda had ordered the shrimp alfredo—a simple dish, and one that was hard to fuck up. While the food was undeniably fresh, fresh ingredients didn’t always mean that the cooks were worth their weight in salt, and she wasn’t terribly interested in having an ostentatious meal. Leonnaux, meanwhile, had ordered crab legs, because of course he did; it wasn’t the most elegant meal, but he had expensive tastes.

Of course, Leonnaux was more than capable of continuing a conversation with food in front of him, which was either an unfortunate talent or a welcome distraction depending on the night. For now, Edda was content to listen as she twirled the flat noodles around her fork before spearing a shrimp at the end of it.

“Anyway, I was thinking… My nameday is coming up, so I wanted to do something special this year. I’ve spent two summers in Ul’dah, and this will be the third, but this is also the first summer I’ve actually… Had anything to show for my time here.” He smiled, trailing off while he worked on cracking the crab leg open. “I know you don’t really celebrate yours, but—do you think reflects poorly on my character to throw a party for myself?”

She looked up at him then, biting off the end of a loose noodle before wiping her mouth. She took her time chewing to consider the question. “Why would it?”

“It just seems like an awfully vain thing to do.”

“A little, then. Who would you invite?”

“Well, there’s you, obviously.” He starts counting off on his fingers. “All of Alizarine; they’re the closest thing I have to friends at the moment, really, although I guess we’re less friends and more coworkers… Likewise for The Cloak & Dagger’s staff. I have to admit some fondness for Itara and Laz; they’ve treated me well and have done good work… … … Um. I’m sure there are some others. I don’t know who all would actually come, but it might be fun? Plus, I… Have a proposition.”

The shell of the crab leg cracked and was easy to peel off after that. He dipped the meat in butter before biting it off, his eyes lighting up. “You gotta try this,” he said, and summarily cut off a piece of crab meat for Edda, and set it down on her plate without even asking if she wanted (or liked) crab.

But it wasn’t the proffering of food so much as the mention of a proposition that had her eyebrow raised. “I thought you weren’t even thinking about work. What happened to vacation?”

And at that, Leonnaux just brought a finger up to his lips as if to gesture for her to keep quiet about it. “I’ll tell you when we’re back at the inn room.”

[tulipscomeinallsortsofcolors]

i know i haven't sent an ask in a while, and that's because i've been on my RP blog and not on my personal so you wouldn't know it was me, but hi i still love you and your writing, i'm so fucking happy for Logan that he's going to college (!) on the east coast (!!!!). i'm from DC area so the east coast really has my heart and i love it when characters get to experience it; but also it's so cute that his boyfriends are so supportive and happy for him and also getting education i can't

besides Requiem and Foundation (i... think) this is the first real decent time skip (i’m like... 90% sure) all the other oneshots (or threeshots in the case of Loyalty) take place in the year immediately following the main storyline.

so i’m really glad it went over well!! There’s quite a few as-mostly-adults and as-whole-adults ideas bouncing around in the ol brain but I was highkey not sure they’d appeal to people

I love the east coast too! im obvi not from there (chaboys a redneck through and through) but i’ve been all kinda places up and down it and its always so much fun 

(though, to be fair, this very well could just be because i really like seafood but im kinda squicked by the idea of eating it in a landlocked state in case its not fresh and i get sick, so i only eat it on vacation - i cant stand swimming in the ocean it freaks me tf out)

So i wanted Logan to go a decent distance from Ohio, because he DESERVES to get a ways away after being trapped there his whole life, but not so far as, say, california, because in my heart i did believe that would be too much for him (not for a vacation or something, but living? going from being confined to like a MAX 50 square miles to The Whole Continental United States? talk about overwhelming)

And then i got the suggestion of Colby College (with a side note of “they have a really good Environmental Science program”) took ONE look at that research green house and my mind was 100% made up tbh

[chicgeekgirl89]

The Honeymooners: Chapter 2

A/N: I’m back! I’m here! I’m slower at writing than ever! Enjoy the second chapter of Densi’s summer vacation!

Read Chapter 1 Here

They touched down in Jacksonville half an hour later. Medical was brought on board to deal with the elderly woman Kensi had helped and Cherise, the flight attendant. Kensi and Deeks were at the back of the plane meaning they were some of the last to disembark.

By the time they reached the gate it was packed with people attempting to change their flights. “Who would’ve thought Lima would be the vacation destination of the year?” Kensi asked as they squeezed into the cue.

“Apparently everyone.” Deeks grunted as a woman carrying a small dog elbowed him in the ribs.

It took another hour for them to get to the counter. The attendant looked harried and exhausted but she smiled at them anyway. “Hello how can I help you?”

“Well my wife and I here, we were on the flight to Lima and we didn’t exactly end up in Lima,” Deeks told her.

“What’s your last name?”

Deeks gave her all the relevant information and she spent a good five minutes clicking away on her keyboard. “All right Mr. and Mrs. Deeks, I can book you on a 5:00pm flight,” she said brightly.

Kensi checked her watch. Two hours from now. Perfect. They would only miss about half a day.

“Let me just confirm the details one more time,” the gate attendant said. “That’s two tickets for Mr. Martin Deeks and Mrs. Kensi Deeks on the 5:00pm flight that leaves Monday, June 17.”

Deeks blinked at her. “I’m sorry, did you say Monday?”

“Yes that’s when the next available flight with two seats is.”

“But it’s Friday.”

“Yes.”

“Monday at 5:00 is like, three full days from now.”

“Yes sir.”

Deeks looked at Kensi. “You have no flights available between now and Monday at 5:00pm?”

“I’m sorry, no. The airline will be able to compensate you for three night’s stay at a Jacksonville hotel on this list.” She handed them a laminated piece of paper. “Air Peru apologizes for the inconvenience.”

“This is unbelievable,” Kensi said, trying to reign in her frustration. She knew it wasn’t this airline employee’s fault, but she hadn’t waited six months for her honeymoon to spend half of it in Jacksonville.

“We could try another airline,” Deeks offered as they stepped away from the counter.

“And pay for another pair of tickets?” Kensi asked. “That’s not going to leave you much for guinea pig sandwiches.”

“Call Hetty?”

“I don’t want to bother her,” Kensi said. 

“Then…I guess we just wait it out? There must be something fun to do around here for a few days.”

“Fine. Let’s just get to the hotel and find some dinner.”

Deeks stepped back to the counter. “Hi, okay, so we’re going to stay at the Best Western.”

She tapped her keyboard. “I’m sorry sir that hotel is booked.”

“Completely?”

“Yes.”

Deeks took a breath and tried to remain calm. “What about the La Quinta?”

She tapped away. “Also booked.”

“Okay, is there a hotel on this list that isn’t fully booked?”

She typed for a long time. “Yes, Manny’s Inn and Casino has one room available.”

“Manny’s Inn and Casino. Of course,” Deeks said, feeling his shoulders growing more tense by the second. “I guess we’ll take it.”

“Excellent. If you could just give me your information.”

Deeks proceeded to repeat all the information he’d given her five minutes prior and half an hour later they were in an Uber on their way to the hotel. “Gonna do a little gambling tonight?” their driver asked.

“I don’t think so,” Kensi told him drily.

The Uber was one of those little, electric cars so they were both crammed into the backseat with their backpacks. The driver zipped through traffic like laws didn’t apply and Deeks wondered if they would even make it to the hotel alive.

“What are you doing in Jacksonville?” the driver asked, clearly not picking up on their “don’t talk to me” signals.. 

“It’s our honeymoon,” Deeks said. “We’re on the way to Lima.”

“Ooooh your honeymoon! Congratulations!” He frowned. “But you’re going to Lima? That doesn’t seem too romantic.”

“We’re the adventurous type,” Deeks said when it became apparent that Kensi wasn’t in a talking mood with her knees by her ears.

“Oh I see, I see. Well make sure you make the most of your time here in Jacksonville before you go if you know what I mean. Can’t imagine you could get up to much hanky panky all the way down there.” He chuckled and Kensi rolled her eyes.

He continued to chat all the way to their hotel. By the time they arrived the Deeks’ knew more about crawfish boils, gators, and illegal moonshine than they could ever have wanted to. “Thanks,” Deeks said as he paid while Kensi walked inside with their bags.

“Hey, listen,” the driver handed him a coupon. “Take the missus somewhere nice tonight. This is my brother’s place, Al’s Crab Shack. They do the best seafood this side of the Atlantic! They’ll treat you right!”

Deeks took the crumpled and slightly greasy coupon. “Good to know.”

“Good luck!” he hollered and then floored it out of the parking lot.

The hotel was worse than Deeks could have imagined. It looked like an adult entertainment store had mated with an arcade and then eaten a lot of tuna fish. Kensi was standing at the desk, her face resigned to the fact that this vacation was turning out to be yet another disaster.

“Welcome Mr. and Mrs. Deeks,” the desk clerk said in a monotone voice. “In your welcome packet you will find your room keys, a voucher good for half off one drink with purchase of three drinks at the hotel bar, and a pricing guide for the wifi. The hotel casino is twenty-four hours. Have a good stay.”

“There’s a pricing guide for the wifi?” Deeks asked as they walked to the elevator.

“Apparently ‘all-inclusive’ isn’t in their vocabulary,” Kensi said.

They opened their room door and Deeks snorted. “Of course it’s twin beds.”

“Of course,” Kensi said, dropping her pack onto the one nearest the door.

Deeks came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. “It just means we can cuddle.”

She turned to face him. “Maybe we should go home.”

“And miss out on the honeymoon adventure of a lifetime? C’mon Kens! What’s a little delayed flight and crappy motel room got on us? For better or for worse right?”

“Yeah I didn’t think that part of our vows meant our honeymoon was going to be the worse.”

He cupped her face in his hands. “It won’t be. You and me baby. We’ve got this.”

She sighed. “All right. Let’s stay. But you need to feed me like right now before I change my mind.”

“Done!”

It turned out that while Al’s might not exactly live up to its reputation as the “best” seafood on the east coast, it was the only place within walking distance of their hotel. “Oh my god,” Deeks’ eyes grew huge as they walked inside. “Okay, new aesthetic for the bar.”

The walls were covered in paraphernalia that had been reclaimed from the ocean. Crab pots, tackle boxes, paddles, and a wide variety of mounted fish were on display for all to see.

“You already have one fish. I don’t think we need anymore,” Kensi said as they settled into their table.

“But what if he gets lonely? Maybe he needs a fishy girlfriend to keep him company,” Deeks said, indicating a large bass that had a pink bow on top.

“Howdy everyone and welcome to Al’s Crab Shack,” their server said. “My name is George and I will be your server tonight. Would you like to hear about our specials?”

“We would love to hear about the specials George,” Deeks said, in his element as he watched his bride’s obvious distaste.

“For our appetizer this evening we have a deep fried cheese stick, deep fried shrimp, deep fried jalapeño popper platter. Very popular with the large groups. Our dinners tonight are the twice fried crab legs and our deep fried cheeseburger with deep fried cheese topping. These are both served with our triple fried potato chips. Would you like to order now?”

“I think we need a minute,” Kensi said and he moved on to help a retired couple who couldn’t read the menu or hear very well judging from how loudly George was speaking to them. “Is there anything on this menu that’s been fried less than twice?”

“This is the deep south babe. Fried is what they do best.”

“I’ll bet the hospitals make a killing on heart attacks.”

George returned. “Are you ready to order?”

“Yes,” Deeks straightened his menu. “I will have the deep fried seafood platter with a side of the deep fried fries.”

“Excellent choice. One of our most popular items. And for you ma’am?”

Kensi wrinkled her nose. “I guess I’ll have the deep fried salad? Any chance you can hold the deep fried?”

“Ma’am all of our items come fully prepared and frozen for maximum freshness and quality so no, we cannot hold the deep fried.”

“Okay then.” Kensi watched him walk away. “I’m not sure we should eat here.”

“Look babe, this place is packed! The food must be good.”

The food was not good. Kensi picked at her salad trying to find the freshest bits while Deeks chewed through four crab legs, six shrimp, two pieces of cod, and entire plate of french fries. “It’s like I’m back in college,” he said between bites. 

“You ate like this in college?”

“You’re telling me, KayKay Blye, queen of the junk food, didn’t partake in the occasional fried food binge in the dining hall cafeteria?”

“Not like this.”

“Liar. If they had a deep fried Twinkie on this menu you would be all over it.”

“Yes, one Twinkie would be fine. You’re eating a coronary on a plate.”

“What a way to go.”

Kensi rolled her eyes.

She hopped in the shower when they got back and when she was done Deeks hopped her. “Deeks, these are twin beds,” she gasped as he kissed her neck. “There’s not enough room.”

“Think of it as a challenge,” he said with a grin, his hands sliding down her thighs in a way that made her shiver.

There were a few more minutes of making out and then Deeks sat up, a little breathless as he stripped off his shirt. Kensi caught a glimpse of his face and she frowned. “Babe are you okay?”

He was sweaty and pale and even a little green, but maybe that was just the lighting. “Yeah,” he said. “Yeah I’m great.”

He definitely seemed great for the next two hours. Maybe being trapped in Jacksonville wasn’t so bad after all. 

[survivingtw]

A Weekend in Taitung // Why You NEED to Visit Eastern Taiwan

On the last weekend on the festival, myself and two coworkers hopped on travels and headed down to the south eastern town of Taitung.

First off, Taitung is FAR lol. Living in western Taiwan, we are blessed by the high speed rail system that shoots us down the coast in about two hours, north to south. On a regular train, from my area to Taipei is about 50 minutes. On high speed rail its less than 15. WHAT. Yes. I know.

Anyway, there is no high speed rail on Taiwan’s eastern coast and to be honest it would probably be quite the challenge and EXPENSIVE to build. The west coast is mainly flat until you hit the mountain range but the east coast pretty much is the mountain range lol. It’s also full of more aboriginals, nature and gorgeous seaside views !! Mountains and the sea all on one area ??!!?! YAAAAS.

The hot air balloon festival is VERY dependent on the weather. The few previous days were all cancelled and when we arrived (at 530am mind you =.=) it was raining a bit and many people left. Luckily, it cleared up for a good hour of hot air balloon fun. 

PS IT WAS GORGEOUS I JUST DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY.

Eastern as well as Southern Taiwan grows a lot of the food for the rest of the island so its not surprising that the food tasted so fresh. There were also some veggie choices that aren’t so common in the north. 

The alcohol is just as good in the north in case you’re wondering :P 

If you do your research, you can find some preeeeeeetty interesting restaurants to stumble into for a photo op :P

Just around from the hot air balloon festival, there is a look out where you can see the plains before the mountains start. Absolutely stunning. 

Later that day, we went to a restaurant on the shore. It was honestly such a great location because they had seafood, sangria, a pool and the ocean all on the same lot! You could really just spend the whole day here just for the cost of one meal and enjoy all the area has to offer.

   Although I only spent a really short time, it gave me a lot of inspiration and motivation to take more opportunities to visit towns and places like this that aren’t really in the tourist book. I felt so at peace not rushing like in the city but, having so much fun enjoying the water ... and panicking I was going to get a sunburn (WHICH I AVOIDED THANK GOD).

Pro tip: Rent a car or get a taxi drivers card. Renting would be lovely since most things are pretty spread out, but if everyone wants to drink, a cab is totally affordable, especially if youre with a few people and can split the fare. Just make sure to get someone’s number to pick you up cause you’re not just going to find a cab rolling around by the beach. 

[hellsbovnd-archive]

time away.

wc: more than strictly necessary 2033 focus: leonnaux, ft. edda!

The summer night’s air was warm, though not oppressively so thanks to the cool breeze off of the ocean. The smell of the sea mingled here with the smell of food—of fine seafood dishes and, of course, finer wine.

They’d taken a break from the city for a while, Leonnaux and Edda, though the former more-so than the latter. Where Leonnaux was reluctant to even think about his worldly troubles—“I’m on vacation,” he’d say, in the manner of a spoiled child—Edda kept up with her work even during their time away. The single concession that Leonnaux requested was that they’d share an inn room, which was simple enough to provide. Edda spent a lot of time at his apartment when they were at home, even though her work called her to the Mists of La Noscea, so it was more a change of scenery than a change of manner.

But even Leonnaux’s fascination with Limsa Lominsa was short-lived, if fascination was even the word; it was a city he was unfamiliar with, but it was nonetheless a city that he’d spent the past two moons practically living in as he allowed himself some time away from Alizarine and away from The Cloak & Dagger.

So they quit that city too, retreating for an evening to the beach and a seaside seafood restaurant that caught the fish and shellfish that they served fresh, right off the coast.

Where Leonnaux requested the concession of Edda staying with him while he finished out his vacation, Edda had requested the concession of not being dragged kicking and screaming to the Bismarck—in fewer words, though Leonnaux might have you believe otherwise with his playful jeers. It was a request he was reluctant to accommodate given the Bismarck’s reputation as the culinary capital of Eorzea, both a cultural center of fine dining and home to the Culinarian’s guild. But he wasn’t about to force the love of his life into a situation that she would be uncomfortable in, and he doubted that they could enjoy a meal properly with Edda metaphorically looking over her shoulder every five seconds, to make sure she hadn’t caught any unfortunately familiar gazes.

But the restaurant they’d settled on for one of their last nights out before their little vacation was over was charming nonetheless. They were seated in a section built partially over the water, and the incoming waves gently lapped at the posts that held the deck well above the water. The sun setting over the water was picturesque, and Leonnaux still couldn’t believe that there were people who got to behold such a sight every single night of their lives.

He’d told Edda before, multiple times, that he was glad that he could share this sunset with her, and indeed even now it was somewhat of an implied sentiment. He’d reached across the table, beckoning for her hand, which she gladly and wordlessly provided. He stroked slow circles over the back of her hand with his thumb. The sunlight still reflected distantly off of the water, but it was otherwise dark enough that Edda was finally able to shed the sunglasses that she donned when she had to be out during the day—though she of course still donned her iconic hat.

Tonight, like most nights, wasn’t treated like anything special, and even Leonnaux had dressed down (although given how formal his attire usually was, it was a bit difficult for him to dress up any more than he already did on most days) for the occasion. Where usually he’d be in some sort of button-down shirt and suspenders, tonight he donned a simple, loose-fitting white shirt. No longer did he get weird looks from onlookers next to Edda, who tended to dress similarly casually with her coatee and hat and omnipresent leather gloves.

(Instead, they just had to deal with odd looks from the not-small number of onlookers who connected the dots with regards to their relationship: Edda being a Hyur and Leonnaux an Elezen complicated things somewhat, but thankfully they were either too intimidated or too polite to put words to their mind.)

“I wish I could share every sunset with you.” Familiar words, yes; not even twenty-four bells had passed since Leonnaux last uttered the exact same words. They escaped him almost involuntarily, slipping as naturally from his lips as his breath, and he only seemed to realize he’d spoken when Edda looked up at him with a smile.

“I know, Leonnaux.” That had been her response last night, too—a smile, some words of acknowledgement, and a gentle nod. She squeezed his hand a bit and were they not sitting across from each other he was sure she would have pulled him into a loose embrace, as she did a few days ago when he told her that he wished he could share every sunset with her while they were sitting together on the beach, or countless other times before when he’d expressed similar sentiments before they went on their jaunt away from Ul’dah. She knew. Of course she knew. It didn’t take a genius to see the way that Leonnaux looked at her, had always looked at her—and she hoped, would continue to look at her. The sort of genuine affection he was capable of was rare, and something she’d learned well from past experience to appreciate while she could.

He let out a sigh. “I know. I mean—I know you know. I just—” He pulled his gaze away from her and let it settle on the distant sunset, which gave the impossibly clear water the appearance of liquid gold. “This time away’s been all the better because I got to spend it with you. We should do this more, though mayhap not for a moon at a time. Maybe—a few stolen weekends, here and there. We hardly ever get to go out on dates…”

Leonnaux let his hand slip from hers so that he could pick up his glass of wine and bring it to his lips. Edda used the opportunity to retrieve a roll rom the basket that the water had left for them before taking their order and scurrying off to the kitchen. They had already carved through nearly the entire basket, Leonnaux moreso than Edda on account of a quick addiction to the sweet butter that the bread had come with. Edda, meanwhile, had requested regular butter.

“Well, where do you want to go?”

“I—” That was the question it always came to, wasn’t it? Leonnaux exhaled sharply out of his nose. “… I can come up with a few places. I just feel like it would be nice, for a change, instead of spending every night in.”

Edda’s smile lingered even as she tore off part of her roll and stuffed it into her mouth. Her gaze left Leonnaux, finding itself fixed on some undetermined point between the edge of the table and his chest. “Just pick a place and we’ll go. You picked this spot; I’m sure you can find another in Ul’dah.”

“I mean, yeah—I just hoped you might have some suggestions.” His shoulders roll back in a shrug. “You’ve been living in Ul’dah longer than I have.”

“Men of Ul’dah ought to take the time themselves to acquaint themselves with the city.” There was an edge to her smile with those words—almost taunting.

Indeed, Leonnaux had lived in the city for three years now, but he scarcely took enough time to himself in the first place to properly recommend any date spots. No date spots that he didn’t own (The Cloak & Dagger) or that wouldn’t invariably end with him getting wrapped up in work (The Cloak & Dagger, again, or any of the seedier bars he had a propensity to poke his head into on his nights off).

“Fine, fine! I’ll look into it.” He laughs a bit, the sound light from his lips, lighter than it usually was.

—But, that lightness was a consequence of their time away in general. As much as Edda was a proponent of continuing to be productive, to be useful even when physically away from her work, it was hard to ignore the weight that seemed to have been lifted from Leonnaux’s shoulders as a result of his extended time away from both Alizarine and The Cloak & Dagger. Where he was usually reserved almost to the point of being restrained, he spoke freely now, seemed keener on dedicating some small measure of time on creative pursuits rather than purely academic ones, and, hells, Edda had even caught him singing in the shower. Normally he only hummed; she knew he would sing for her if she asked, but only if she asked.

So as much flak as she gave him for not checking his mail—which any reasonable businessman would do, in her opinion, regardless of whether or not he was on vacation, as he so, so often reminded her—she couldn’t deny that the time away from his work was doing him wonders.

The waiter came and brought them their food, then, offered refills for their drinks (they both accepted; Leonnaux was paying, and he’d made it clear when Edda first joined him on his vacation that he would be hearing no objections), and left them to their own devices. Edda had ordered the shrimp alfredo—a simple dish, and one that was hard to fuck up. While the food was undeniably fresh, fresh ingredients didn’t always mean that the cooks were worth their weight in salt, and she wasn’t terribly interested in having an ostentatious meal. Leonnaux, meanwhile, had ordered crab legs, because of course he did; it wasn’t the most elegant meal, but he had expensive tastes.

Of course, Leonnaux was more than capable of continuing a conversation with food in front of him, which was either an unfortunate talent or a welcome distraction depending on the night. For now, Edda was content to listen as she twirled the flat noodles around her fork before spearing a shrimp at the end of it.

“Anyway, I was thinking… My nameday is coming up, so I wanted to do something special this year. I’ve spent two summers in Ul’dah, and this will be the third, but this is also the first summer I’ve actually… Had anything to show for my time here.” He smiled, trailing off while he worked on cracking the crab leg open. “I know you don’t really celebrate yours, but—do you think reflects poorly on my character to throw a party for myself?”

She looked up at him then, biting off the end of a loose noodle before wiping her mouth. She took her time chewing to consider the question. “Why would it?”

“It just seems like an awfully vain thing to do.”

“A little, then. Who would you invite?”

“Well, there’s you, obviously.” He starts counting off on his fingers. “All of Alizarine; they’re the closest thing I have to friends at the moment, really, although I guess we’re less friends and more coworkers… Likewise for The Cloak & Dagger’s staff. I have to admit some fondness for Itara and Laz; they’ve treated me well and have done good work… … … Um. I’m sure there are some others. I don’t know who all would actually come, but it might be fun? Plus, I… Have a proposition.”

The shell of the crab leg cracked and was easy to peel off after that. He dipped the meat in butter before biting it off, his eyes lighting up. “You gotta try this,” he said, and summarily cut off a piece of crab meat for Edda, and set it down on her plate without even asking if she wanted (or liked) crab.

But it wasn’t the proffering of food so much as the mention of a proposition that had her eyebrow raised. “I thought you weren’t even thinking about work. What happened to vacation?”

And at that, Leonnaux just brought a finger up to his lips as if to gesture for her to keep quiet about it. “I’ll tell you when we’re back at the inn room.”

[thrandilf]

So Distracting Ch 11- First Date

AN UPDATE AT LAST!!!

-

Every tavern in Lowtown was the same. If it weren't for the stench of fish, Fenris could've sworn they were simply on a date at the Hanged Man. Laughter, shouts, and a comforting privacy-providing din surrounded them in the low lamplight. Fenris felt better about being dressed down, but still wished he'd done something better for Anders.

"Ah, finally, a proper meal together." Anders pulled out a chair at a secluded table by a window. Fenris had to admit this Mermaid Tail place was deck scrubbed and dusted more often than other venues in that part of the city and he slightly relaxed. Anders was so cheerful Fenris managed a strained smile that looked worse than not trying at all. "Hmmmmm, they have lovely clam chowder here."

"I hope they have wine."

"Likely white-" Anders paused. "NO Justice, of course I don't drink anymore." He rolled his eyes. "Justice might fuss- my apologies."

Fenris chuckled. "If we're meant to not fight on our date, he's providing you with someone to argue with instead of me." He was wondering how well he'd be able to keep seafood down. It wasn't right to complain on a first date, was it? Fenris sighed, opting to try shrimp instead and barely managing to willingly ask the long suffering waiter for seafood, as if anything there wouldn't taste like solid saltwater and despair to him.

Anders gave Fenris another bright smile and pulled a deck of cards out from his pocket. "Friendly game of Wicked Grace?”

Anders was even prepared for the meal wait time. Fenris accepted, sacrificing a few coppers to their betting pool. “I’m sorry for uh, my lack of preparation.”

“Huh? It’s my treat, I’m happy to be out with you.” Anders shuffled the deck. “It’s not a competition, Fenris.”

Fenris was eternally grateful when the bottle of wine arrived. He uncorked it and chugged half of the bottle in one go. “I worry I’m not classy enough to date.”

Anders looked smitten. Fenris belatedly noticed that there was glassware already on the table and awkwardly poured himself a glass of wine. “I love everything about you, Fenris.” Their table service brought a basket of warm rolls and Anders tore into one hungrily as he dealt their cards and looked at his. “Check.”

Fenris glanced at his cards and snorted, glad they were only playing coppers. “Check.”

A few minutes of playing cards passed. Anders put him at ease like no one else quite could. It felt like a breath of air, of living a life he’d never been allowed to have. He couldn’t believe people could have this any time they wanted. He swallowed hard as he watched Anders smile and simply exist, how the light in his eyes shone in the night. Anders smiling so freely was almost as much of a rarity as Fenris grinning.

Fenris ate a hot roll with his wine, finally telling himself that everything was alright with their date. He stopped his frantic head checking and peripheral glances. As for food, well, what problem was there that wine couldn’t fix?

Anders managed to keep losing magnificently, and Fenris snorted as he yet again scraped a few coppers to himself. “I’ve had absolutely trash in my hand- and yet you have worse?”

“Amazing, isn’t it? I might be cursed.”

Their food arrived and Anders eagerly dig into a bowl of chowder and his fried fish. Fenris poked at his breaded shrimp, telling himself that shrimp generally didn’t taste like anything. He decided to test how well seafood paired with the light taste of a white wine and ate a few shrimps, focusing on the crunchy breading and realizing it wasn’t nearly as bad as fish.

Anders always bolted down meals in record time, nicer than usual seafood no exception. He sighed and leaned back, giving Fenris a fond look. “I love you.”

Fenris’s throat tightened. He blinked in confusion, unused to the feeling.

His throat closed up, in fact.

Anders frowned as Fenris suddenly wheezed, his face and throat aching as he couldn’t breathe. “Fenris!” Anders’ healing magic flared up and he reached out, hands glowing as he touched Fenris’s chest, making Fenris’s lyrium glow brighter than any lanterns in the establishment.

The chaos was instant.

“WIZARDS! THERE’S APOSTATES ON THE LOOSE!”

“GUARDS! GUARDS!”

Fenris recovered from his allergic reaction and groaned, the first words out of his mouth were, “Well, shit.”

Anders gave Fenris a sheepish glance as their magic and lyrium swirled with light. Many patrons ran screaming, a few who cared less about their own personal safety continued drinking in their corners, while the clanking sounds of Templars and the city watch running towards them grew louder and the barkeep and a waiter suddenly had swords in their hands.

“We’re not leaving a tip!” snarled Fenris, stepping in front of Anders to shield him. His declaration of no tip leaving made Justice fully flare up, making Anders’s eyes pure gleams of light as he and Anders fought for control.

“A STANDARD SERVICE TIP IS TWENTY PERCENT-“ “We don’t mean any harm!” “-BUT GIVEN THE CIRCUMSTANCES WE SHALL LEAVE FIFTEEN-“ “-Except to that window!”

shouted Anders and Justice. He glanced behind him and grabbed Fenris’s hand.

Fenris phased through the window behind them as Anders blasted through it, both tumbling out in a mess. Fenris stayed behind Anders, hoping to shield him from any arrows. They sprinted out of town, aided by their powers to stay ahead of but most certainly not lose their pursuers. Fenris cursed their glowing as they drew more and more guards like moths. Anders cast a shield on him and Fenris blocked most attacks as Anders wove down side streets and alleys.

It was similar to how he used to protect Danarius, but he hadn’t protected Danarius with a grin on his face.

Anders was getting visibly winded by the time they reached the city gates and Fenris took his hand, willingly lending his lyrium. Anders breathed hard and squeezed his hand, lighter on his feet than he’d ever been. They made it out into the surrounding forests and the guards finally gave up, their pay not quite high enough to chase down two magical beings used to being on the run all through the night.

They gradually slowed down, still casting cautious glances behind them. Anders wheezed and leaned against a tree, clutching his side. He healed his aches and looked Fenris over as Fenris brushed himself off. “Thanks got the help.”

“Getting arrested would’ve made for a bad date.” Fenris was unscathed and merely stretched. “Tonight might’ve been my bad.”

Anders couldn’t hide a mirthful smile. “I’m sorry but- you’re allergic to shrimp? Is that why you seemed sort of tense?”

“Er- I had no idea I was allergic,” admitted Fenris. “I’ve always had an aversion to seafood, but I didn’t think there was a reason. I couldn’t remember I had that allergy, with no memories of my early life.”

“Oh.” Anders chuckled. “Er- I’m sorry. That’s horrible. No more seafood for us. I forgot you usually flee the scent of fish.”

“I should’ve spoken up, but-“ Fenris huffed with a fond smile. “I had a great time, actually. Looks like we better make camp somewhere, though.”

Anders reached out to take Fenris’s hand and Fenris reflexively pulled away before realizing he wanted to hold Anders’ hand and smacked him in his excitement, snorting at Anders’ bewildered expression. Andraste, was it always going to be this awkward? Anders seemed at ease, following the fresh nighttime sea breeze. The trees thinned out and Fenris could see all of the coast and the stars glittering high above them, welcoming the two for a peaceful stroll in the wilderness.

“I try to not talk too much about the Circle, but-“ Anders sighed. He gazed up at the stars with a look of wonder, like a child seeing them for the first time. “I never take the stars or the wind for granted. The rain, the sun, the clouds- it still feels so special after being locked away. I wake up in a city, free people all around me every day. Sometimes I worry it’s a dream but here I am, still free, still living and breathing and falling in love with the smallest things every day.”

Fenris let himself stare not at the stars, but at Anders. He hated to admit it, would never have wanted to face it before, but- “I don’t know exactly how you feel, but I’m close to it. Those little freedoms and pleasures of life I never had.” He took a deep breath, bracing himself.

“Anders? I’m sorry.”

“Hm? For what?”

Fenris took in the scenery, wondering what it would be like in a world without people locked away or kept in bondage. “I’m sorry for being harsh with you. The mages I’m angry with, the people who hurt me- I don’t take back being cautious, but I hurt you when you hadn’t done anything to warrant it. We’re more similar than we’d like to be.”

Anders nodded. “Then I’m sorry too, for what you’ve endured. There are things neither of us can get past, but all men have something.”

Fenris knew Anders was trying to say he’d never stop fighting for mags rights and he nodded. They always came back to this. He hoped one day they wouldn’t have to. “I respect that. At least we both hate slavers.”

“AGREED- I, ah, yes. So does Justice.”

They followed a trail down to the beach and found a soft area to rest under a grove of trees. Fenris reclined next to Anders, sighing. His ears twitched and he frowned. Oh, couldn’t they get a break?! “Hey Anders?”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t panic, but there’s a pack of wolves headed our way.”

Anders panicked. He threw a fireball towards the coastline and readied himself as a wolf yelped a distance away from them. Fenris sprang to his feet and drew his sword, glowing as he rushed into the middle of the wolves with Anders healing and shielding him. Fenris expertly weaved abd danced between (and occasionally through) the creatures, agile even with his heavy two handed weapon. With Anders on his side, he felt invincible. The pack was slain in a matter of minutes, leaving Fenris panting and bloodstained. He looked at Anders and sighed. “I didn’t think our date was going to go like this.”

“Let’s recap- I take you to a restaurant you don’t like, you have an allergic reaction, we blow apart their wall and are probably banned, get chased by half the Kirkwall watch, and then get attacked by wolves.” Anders smirked. “Sounds about right.”

“We’ll have to try this again sometime. It’s bound to go better.”

Anders looked around at the bloodied ground and watched Fenris brush himself off. He started giggling hysterically, doubled over and hiccuping. It spread to Fenris and soon the two were helplessly guffawing, each glance and eye contact making every bout worse and louder.

“I just- how could this get even more absurd?!” Anders sank back under the tree and Fenris curled up beside him.

“Well, considered how all this has gone-“ Fenris didn’t look Anders in the eye but did reach for his hand. “Merrill said elves will give each other bonding presents and I don’t have anything, not really.”

“It’s okay Fenris, I-“

“So let’s skip the gift giving. You should just move in with me.”

Anders widened his eyes. “What- really?!”

“I have no desire to use Danarius’s mansion for myself, but if it was ours, and you wanted to fix it up and make it a home, I’d be happy to let you.” Fenris folded his arms, habitually defensive. “I am not your housekeeper, and I’ll drink whatever I please, and you’ll have to deal with my nonexistent sleep schedule-“

“Fenris- I’d be honored to get to stay with you. You really mean it?” Anders’ voice was soft, as though he wanted to hope so badly that he’d have a home but couldn’t quite believe it.

“Yes.”

Anders leaned close and kissed Fenris, the affection welcome after such a harried night. “Thank you- I just- I’m an apostate-“

Fenris huffed with laughter and kissed Anders back. “I’m cleverer than you think, you know. I have quite vocal opinions about magic around town- who on earth would believe a rumor that I of all people would harbor a mage?”

“That’s- damn, you’re right.” Anders beamed with delight. “Can I have a cat?!”

“If it makes you happy, then bring home every stray in the city!” Fenris paused. “Actually, I’m pretty sure I have mice. Please get us a cat.”

[jenkinsjourneys]

Road Trip around Kent

Hi, I am Marie and my husband is Drew. We hope you like our blog based on our recent visit to Kent. Welcome to Jenkins Journeys, cycling, and adventuring through life. 

I had received a number of recommendations to visit Kent and as I had never been before, we decided to do it as a road trip to get the most out of the visit. We decided to hire a Motor Home and was delighted to pick up a spotless 6 berth Ford Chausson MotorHome from Motor Home Hire UK. It was a comfortable and easy drive especially as this was my first time hiring a motorhome. The vehicle came with all the extra’s you need, such as electric hook up, gas cylinder and kitchenware.

Day 1

We decided to head towards Epping Forest for our first night, as we are keen cyclists we thought it would be great to explore the area and find a campsite that was close to the Forest. Once in the area, we came across Debden House Campsite. It is a conference centre and had 6 large fields for the use of campers and large groups. It cost us £32 for the night which is more than what we would usually pay for a pitch, but as it was on the edge of the Forest we decided to stay for the one night. After a cozy sleep in the double bed above the driver's cabin, we set off for Whitstable, which we decided would be our next overnight stop. 

Day 2

We traveled across the Dartford Crossing along to Rochester,( it is important to note that you must log on to the website and pay your crossing charge before midnight on the day you travel), this was for a quick comfort break and I am glad we did as this was our first sightseeing stop, as there was lots of history in the area and an impressive Castle sitting proudly in the centre of the town. I especially liked the wonky buildings.

We arrived in Whitstable mid-afternoon and after a drive along the seafront out of town we came across Sea View Holiday Park. It has lots of static caravans, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that they had a touring site and offered pods right next to the entertainment area and washing facilities. 

As we wanted to explore the immediate area we decided to stop for the next 3 nights. The touring site was literally a stone’s throw (or pebble throw) on to the pebbly beach, with a long promenade. Once we had set up the motorhome, filling up the water tank and getting our set up right we headed out on our bikes back up the prom to Whitstable. It was a fantastic ride along a wide concrete prom passing lots of beach huts and bars and restaurants. As the area is famous for its Oyster Farm it was no surprise to learn that many of the restaurants offer wonderful seafood menu’s. As it was Sunday late afternoon most of the shops on the high street were shut, but it had lots of small independent shops and had a quaint feel to it.

Day 3

We were up early because we wanted to get out on our bikes and cycle along to Margate. As it turned out we traveled a lot further and made it to Ramsgate, this was partly due to the fantastic prom that made cycling along the coastline so much easier. The trail along the prom is called the Oyster trail and it leads on to the Viking trail, it is well signposted but given that your following on one path it is easy to navigate anyway.

After leaving our campsite the first area we came in to was Herne Bay, we stuck to the trail but it seemed like a beautiful area. Just after the bay, the trail heads away from the beach, however, we decided to push our bikes along the pebbly beach to do some beachcombing. Once around the Bay, we rejoined the trail and came to Reculver Castle Towers, an interesting stop for a quick refreshment break. 

We continued on to Margate and popped into the town for a quick look around and then continued on the trail along the way we passed some stunning coastline, namely Botany Bay, Viking Bay, and Broadstairs. Due to the time of year, there was a number of tourists but we were able to cycle along at an easy pace without having to dismount.

We reached Ramsgate and this was a pleasant surprise, it had a lovely old fashion seaside feel to the town and we visited a wonderful Fish and Chip Shop that was a well-deserved treat after the 25 plus miles ride. After sitting on the beach to enjoy our fish supper and ushering the seagulls, we took the cycle back. Lucky for us the wind was behind us and we arrived back at the campsite early evening, after a full day cycling and sightseeing.

Day 4

The next day we headed inland and took the Crab and Winkle trail on our bikes to Canterbury. The ride from our site was approx 8-9 miles along a disused railway line through gorgeous countryside and woodland. We visited Canterbury Cathedral which we believe is a must to visit when you're in town. It is steeped in history and was undergoing major renovation work, and has masses to see and learn. The town itself had lots of mini shop fronts and they also have punt trips along the Great Stour from West Gate. Here the wonky shops continued.

After speaking with a lady on the gates of the Cathedral that lives in Whitstable we decided to stop off for a seafood lunch in Whitstable, at Wheelers Restaurant. It was a quaint restaurant, with a large selection on the menu. We chose a fishcake starter and a seafood Mezze. We were instructed that the restaurant only takes cash payments and if you want a glass of wine with your meal there is an Offy across the road with a large selection of local beers and ales. So plenty to try while enjoying your meal.

On our way back to the campsite we picked up some fresh Oysters from the Whitstable Oyster Company, we paid £10 for 6 super fresh Oysters. We took them away and had them for our evening meal. It was great to hear about the history of the Oysters in the area and it was interesting to learn that this farm has over 10 million Oysters just off the shoreline.

Day 5

After packing up and moving on, we had decided to head towards Hastings and we came across a sign for Bodiam Castle as a member of the National Trust and after seeing it in our book we decided to do a slight detour and visit the Medieval castle ruins, its a wonderful sight to see, surrounded by a motto. It is one of the most impressive picturesque castles to go and see.

Due to our impromptu visit, we decided to find a campsite in the Royal Tunbridge Wells area, this was partly due to the fact that there is a number of National Trust sites to visit in the area that we wanted to visit. We had a quick google and found what we thought was a campsite called Sunninglye Farm. On arrival down a small lane, we were met by a lovely lady called Jill, she explained that they are a working farm but also have 7 stunning camping lodges or safari tents as we would call them. Although they are not set up as a campsite, she was kind enough to offer us the opportunity to park up our motorhome on their bottom sheep field close by to the communal shower block. We excepted graciously because it seemed like such a lovely location and we were not disappointed. We had two fabulous nights here and will definitely return in the future to stay in their lodges, it's a wonderful site and has lots to offer for families or groups. On this afternoon we cycled just a few miles into Royal Tunbridge Wells, the town had a number of architecturally interesting buildings but you could also see that the town is having a huge amount of upgrading and investment.

We had the privilege of cooking some of Jill’s home-reared pork in their pizza oven and it was great to make new friends of the farm animals. The chickens are free-range and would often wander around by where you sit. Take a look at their fantastic lodges. I particularly liked that the lighting was by gas lamps and you use a log burner as a stove. They had 3 bedrooms, 2 double and one was bunk beds. I think 2 of the lodges had ensuite showers but all lodges had their own toilet. Each lodge had stunning views of the countryside.

Day 6

This was a final day so we headed out on our bikes to visit Scotney Castle which was approx 8 miles from our site, this stretch was a little hilly for novice cyclists but the effort is well worth it when you reach this National Trust site with a detour to the small village of Lamberhurst. This is by far my favorite NT site, there is so much to see here. The house which was lived in by Betty Hussey, right up to recent times 2006. Its a beautiful time capsule of how she used to live, but then you have the stunning old castle and folly which you can view from the library window and explore. It’s important to add that the cafe and walled garden are worth a visit too. We did want to visit Chatwell House the home of Winston Churchill while we were in the area but we just ran out of time. So great reason to return to the area. 

Day 7

Today we were heading home but on route, we decided to visit Waddesdon Manor in Aylesbury, which is a French-style Chateau, previously owned by the Rothchild Family. The restaurant was superior for this type of national trust site, but we chose a traditional English Cream Tea, which was a welcome snack before we explored the impressive interior rooms of this impressive building. Again this was a wonderful property with lots of magnificent artworks and sculptures. You could spend a full day at this site but we were heading home, so we could clean the van in readiness to return it in the morning.

This is our first time in the Kent area and we were blown away by the number of things to see and do and we know we only scratched the surface. The motorhome experience was one we would also do again without hesitation. We have had a fantastic holiday and we crammed lots in and we would say if you're considering a holiday to somewhere new this is an area of the UK that is definitely worth your consideration. The people we have met have been friendly and extremely helpful and the changing landscapes from Coastlines to woodlands have been a joy.  Right I'm off to plan our next journey, wild camping the southwest coast path in Cornwall in a few weeks.

[theladymeera]

A Little Ghost-Breaking, Part 1

A short fic for @gendryxaryatrash, happy new year!

Things got a bit busy this week and today I had to sit down and read an entire book before overdrive could delete it from my shelf so I didn’t have time to finish this today. Instead we’ll all have to live in suspense until tomorrow! Enjoy!

Bears strong influence from The Haunting of Hill House (the novel), The Ghost and Mister Chicken, Stranger Things, and Ghostbusters. Oh, yeah and there was definitely no influence from that family trip to the Grand Canyon when I was seven.

Here’s the link to it on AO3 [x]

“Wait, are you telling me that you believe in this shit?” Arya asked Gendry, incredulous.

Gendry drew himself up defensively, “Hey, you can’t tell me what I did and did not see. This was way before I ever met you.”

“So you were what, five?”

“Twelve.”

“And you trust your twelve-year-old eyes and brain to tell you that you actually saw a ghost? Not some green light –”

“– it wasn’t green this isn’t Ghostbusters.”

“Or a sheet floating in the wind or whatnot?”

“It didn’t look anything like that.”

“Oh yeah, what did it look like then?”

“It was just this sort of – form – thing, and it spoke. It was muttering something about people I’d never heard of that no one else had heard of when I asked about it but some of those names were in an old family bible that was up in the attic.”

“The ancient family bible was being stored in the attic?”

“Yeah, don’t ask me why it was put up there.”

“Look it was freaky, it was real, and I saw it four different times over that week. And that wasn’t the only weird thing that happened while we were there.”

Arya waved him off and was quiet for a minute. She grabbed her coffee and took a sip, it was starting to get cold. “Well what if we went up there this weekend and checked it out? Then I can prove to you that it was all some elaborate scheme or Joffrey’s or something.”

“Fine. I’ll make the arrangements and this weekend I’ll prove that it was all real and you’ll have to admit that you’re wrong for once.”

Arya rolled her eyes at him but the wager was agreed upon – if she could prove it was all fake he’d have to concede to her restaurant picks for the rest of the year, if he won she’d have to admit that she was wrong and come to all his boring events for the rest of the year.

The drive up to the old farmhouse was long but the scenery was lovely. It was peak season for looking at leaves and Arya made Gendry promise that they’d stop and get pumpkins and cinnamon sugar donuts on their way back on Sunday. The farmhouse was old and dilapidated, about three hundred years old Gendry told her. Considering the age, the distance from any other people, and the long dirt driveway leading to the place Arya figured that Robert Baratheon must have chosen the spot for a vacation with all his children as a way to punish the wealthier ones such as Joffrey. Though Arya had no doubts someone as messed up and vindictive as him would have found some way to entertain himself anyway. She hoped the barn cats had all steered clear of the cretin.

The boards on the porch were a bit shabby from decades of feet pounding on them, Gendry knew a surprising amount about the house and could tell her that the porch had been replaced within the last fifty years. The floors inside the house were much older though, the original hardwood had been cleaned and polished recently – obviously the owners would have had the house cleaned before the weekend guests got there. These boards were truly well-worn with slight grooves in the paths that feet tended to go often. Arya tried to avoid those spots as much as possible, making a game out of stepping in the oddest places. Gendry’s teasing her by shouting “Parkour!” every time she made a particularly difficult move didn’t stop her.

There was nothing remarkable about the three-story house Arya thought. There weren’t even any particularly old and shabby blankets or memorabilia that she was used to seeing in such lived-in places. In fact nearly everything in the place was new except for the structure itself.

“Remind me again why you thought this place was so creepy?” Arya asked her boyfriend as she peered into the disappointingly empty chest at the foot of their bed.

“You haven’t seen the root cellar yet for one,” Gendry told her as he deposited their bags in the closet. “It’s also very different at night. Even without the ghosts there’s the wind coming up off the coast and sometimes I could’ve sworn we were hearing wolves howl outside even though they were killed off centuries ago.”

“So there are ghost wolves too? Sounds like my kind of thing.” Arya flopped down on the bed, checking the firmness of the mattress. It was new and felt just right for her back. She’d been expecting one of those ancient ones that are either rock hard and squeaky or that are so worn the springs would stick into her back.

“This is a nice mattress,” Gendry sighs, “Way better than the old ones.”

Arya twiddled her thumbs over her stomach, letting herself relax for a moment. It was a nice mattress, just not what she was expecting from the age of the place. “What’s this about a cellar?” she said when Gendry got relaxed enough to start snoring.

He woke with a start and begrudgingly led her to the trapdoor into the cellar. He hadn’t been joking about it being creepy. The place was a dugout under the house, the shelves were clearly ancient and covered in cobwebs. Both Arya and Gendry avoided those because if there was any place to get bitten by a spider it was down there or in the barn. Arya got several fantastic pictures of the light shining through the cracks and spaces in-between the slats and of the abandoned tack and farm equipment. By the time she was finished it was getting dark out. The coastal wind whipped Arya’s hair into her face determinedly on the walk back to the house and Nymeria was howling for her dinner. “I think I found your ghost wolf babe!” Arya shouted back to Gendry.

“Does she normally howl for dinner?”

“Nah, but I’m not right there or anything tonight. Don’t be such a wuss.”

Their dinner was a fresh clam chowder and sourdough bread that Arya had insisted on picking up when they passed through the nearest town. Arya had developed a fondness for seafood and sourdough bread in college and while she liked cooking and was good at it she didn’t have much experience with seafood or sourdough and she figured it was worth it to get some since she didn’t get towards the coast very often. “Besides,” she told Gendry when they stopped for the food, “I’d like to spend our first night at the cabin-thing doing something other than cooking.” Gendry appeared to have gotten the wrong idea about her planned activities but she didn’t correct him, after all she might lean that way herself later.

“So,” Arya started when they’d finished washing up, “do we need to do anything special to make the ghosts come out or d’ya think they’ll come on their own.”

Gendry glared at her for a moment before answering, “I don’t recall anyone acting out of the ordinary before the ghosts showed up last time.”

“I think I saw games in one of those cupboards upstairs, do you want to play Monopoly while we wait?”

“The real question is,” and Gendry leaned forward across the table, “are you ready to lose Monopoly?”

Arya did lose Monopoly, or so Gendry insisted she would have had she not decided the game was over and packed it up by the time it became clear she wasn’t going to win. She won the drawn-out game of Scrabble that was made more difficult by a lack of cell service – “Odd,” Arya thought to herself, “I still had coverage when we got here.” But to admit that it was weird would have felt like she was conceding to Gendry’s insanity and she would not allow that. “It’s probably just because of the wind or something,” she assured herself. After they’d either played or rejected all of their options Arya excused herself to the creepy shower and with the exception of the spiders she had to wash down the drain it wasn’t so bad. Her dorm had been much worse. “At least we don’t have to use the outhouse,” Arya said to her reflection as she brushed her teeth. The thing was still standing and had been filled with very large spiders when Gendry had opened the door on their tour. It reminded her too much of her family’s vacation to the Grand Canyon when she was little. She’d gotten a urinary tract infection from holding it too long because her only opportunity to relieve herself for a five-hour period when she needed to go was in an old, creaky outhouse and she hadn’t gone because there had been a tarantula on the seat.

By the time the two of them had curled up together, Gendry’s arm thrown over her waist and Nymeria laid out along the foot of the bed, Arya had nearly forgotten that she’d come there for a possible ghost-breaking. But Gendry was already asleep and he’d sworn he and his half-siblings and cousins hadn’t done a thing when he was here before, the ghosts had just shown up during the night though they weren’t as interactive as they were in A Christmas Carol. Arya shifted so there was less weight on her arm and went peacefully to sleep.

Much later Arya began to wake, faintly aware that Nymeria was growling on the edge of the bed and Arya could have sworn she heard a long “CREEEEEAAK” somewhere nearby. It was also freezing and Arya pulled the blanket tighter around herself, snuggling back towards Gendry’s warm embrace.

“Nymeria hush there’s nothing there” Arya mumbled but the wolfdog didn’t listen. Instead she stood up and growled louder, Arya could see the whites of Nymeria’s teeth in the dim light that filtered through the window. There was nothing there in the space between the bed and the door. Only there was. Arya froze. There, in the three feet between the chair by which Arya had deposited her shoes and the door to the hallway there was a – a shape. The faint outline of a person. It was sort of luminescent like the little glow-in-the-dark stars Arya and Sansa had both once collected and stuck all over their shared room.

Then, over Nymeria’s vicious growls and little warning yips Arya heard murmuring. She couldn’t quite make out the words but they were coming from the direction of the vaguely colonial historical-reenactment womanish figure Arya could almost make out in the dim light. Arya didn’t move, didn’t speak, didn’t breathe but Nymeria kept growling, the figure kept murmuring, and Gendry’s arm tightened around Arya as he woke up. There was a ticklish sensation running up Arya’s leg and she twitched, there was a slight sting on the back of her thigh and she yelped. Nymeria lept off the bed towards the door and the figure – whatever it was – was gone.

Gendry struggled and rolled out of the bed, landing on the floor with an unmanly shriek and a thump before he stumbled to his feet and turned on the lamp. He threw back the covers and Arya turned to see what he was about. She saw a rather large spider running across the sheet before Gendry’s hand flipped it off and into the darkness towards the wall. Arya scrambled away and said shakily “did you see what kind it was?”

“No, sorry.”

Arya turned back towards the door, “Nymeria get back up here” she said, patting the bed. “I don’t know what got into her” she lied, settling back down and keeping her face away from Gendry.

“Oh sure you don’t know. I know you were awake and scared out of your little mind,” he grumbled but he climbed back into the bed and turned off the lamp. Arya did not deign to reply.

[mind-reader1]

Love at First Gazpacho

ES AU: The Gang made it off the island, and their idol visions are coming true, but we get to see the bigger picture now

Word Count: 4985

Warnings: Weed use (if that seriously offends you though, bye lol)  

Notes: This is another little Raj fic I wrote a while back, in honor of the one who really brings the group together IMO. Our underrated star chef! Our entire gang won’t make an appearance this time, just Raj and Quinn! If you guys really like this, I could try to write more idol scenes! Also!!!! This won’t be the only time we get to see this lovely character of my creation, stay tuned for @brightpinkpeppercorn ‘s upcoming AMAZING Jake Halloween fic. Seriously, when she posts it go read it. You’d be dumb not to. 

If you’re into cooking you can find the gazpacho recipe here

It had been a year since Raj made it off the island of La Huerta, lots had changed in a year. Everyone was living their best life, especially Raj, he had his own cooking show just like he had seen in his vision. He was in Spain, his twelfth country this year. He always flew in a week before his crew to get the lay of the land, figure out where he wanted to film, and what he wanted to cook. It was a system, and no one messed with Raj's system. He had some ideas about what he wanted to cook, he was on the small island off the coast of Spain known as Mallorca. Since it was an island, they were known for their seafood, more specifically their paella. His mouth watered just thinking about it, all the various meats that went into it: shrimp, chicken, chorizo, mussels, prosciutto, all over the rice with rich flavors from the various herbs and spices he added. Raj was really going to outdo himself with this one. He couldn't go to any old supermarket though, he needed to find something more authentic to the island's small nature, a little farmers market, or something like that. As he strolled along a small lagoon off the marina he stumbled upon it, and her.

Romance was never the first thing on Raj's mind, it was usually food or weed, or both. When you've got the munchies, it's difficult to think about anything but food. He strolled through the market, checking the freshness and quality of the ingredients. This was the place, Raj knew he wanted to get all his ingredients from here, he began walking down the small aisle backward figuring out how the cameras would get through when he bumped into someone.

“Oh man, I'm so sorry.” Raj turned to help the woman pick up the things he had made her drop. She had tan skin and raven black hair that cascaded down her back, shielding her face from him.

“Gracias.” She smiled warmly at him and stood up, grabbing one more thing before walking away. Raj was drawn to her though, he didn't want her to go so soon.

“What are you going to be making?” The woman looked over at Raj and smiled again.

“You like cooking?”

“I enjoy cooking and eating.” Raj grinned and the woman laughed, her hazel eyes sparkling.

“Gazpacho,” she said, answering his earlier question.

“Oh, today is a perfect day for that. Very calor.” He wiped his forehead and made an attempt at speaking Spanish. The woman looked over Raj curiously, he didn't look American, but she could tell by his accent that he was, yet he didn't strike her as a tourist. This market was off the beaten path, usually only filled with locals.

“I think I might make some myself. It was nice to meet you.” Raj bounded off and the woman watched as Raj looked for ingredients. Frankly, gazpacho was one thing Raj didn't know how to make, he knew it was tomato soup and since he made that at home often he thought it couldn't be too much different. He grabbed some tomatoes, an onion, and some garlic, everything else he needed he could find at his Airbnb. He heard a sigh and felt the things snatched out of his hand, the girl from earlier was shaking her head at him and mumbling to herself.

“Are you trying to make gazpacho or liquid tomato?” Raj laughed.

“Honestly, I only know how to make tomato soup, not gazpacho.” She clicked her tongue and looked down at her basket.

“Come with me. I will make you gazpacho, show you how it's done.” She picked up the last of the ingredients she needed and dragged Raj behind her.

“I'm Raj by the way.” He bounded up next to her. She looked over at Raj and flipped her hair.

“Sofía.” Her looks had initially reminded him of Estela, but she was much friendlier, and that made her much prettier he thought.

“Have you lived here your whole life?” She nodded.

“Sí. My parents died when I was young and so my Abuela raised me.”

“I'm sorry to hear that. I was close to my grandma too.” she shrugged.

“I don't really remember them. We're here.” She stopped outside of a quaint little cottage, not at all like the grandiose mansions in the immediate vicinity of the marina.

“Abuela! Tenemos un invitado para cenar.” Sofía called into the house.

“Something to drink?” She asked Raj as he took in the magnificent kitchen. It had a sink right above the window, a small stove and oven tucked into the corner, with a large table in the center. Looking at the table, Raj could tell it had been around for a while. Marks from where a knife had slipped off the cutting board, stains from different foods that hadn't been cleaned up fast enough. It might not have been state of the art, but it had a story and that's what Raj loved.

“No thanks.” Raj watched as she unloaded her groceries. Tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, garlic, and green bell peppers. Rifling through her cabinets, she pulled out cream, olive oil, Sherry vinegar, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Raj's mouth was already watering.

“So, what's the first step?”

Sofía smiled and deftly pulled out a knife, chopping all her ingredients before putting them into the blender.

“Once you chop all the ingredients, you purée them, and I like to add cream.”

“Does it give it a thicker consistency?” She nodded, pleased that Raj was so eager to learn. Once she was satisfied with the consistency she put it in a bowl and then in the fridge.

“That's it?” Sofía chuckled and shook her head.

“Now it sits for cuatro hora.”

“Four hours?” She nodded and Raj grinned as he took a seat across from her.

“Did your grandma teach you how to cook.”

“Sí. Her mother taught her growing up and she passed it on to me. Family recipes that go back years.”

“Wow, so this recipe is specific to your family?” She nodded.

“You surprise me,” she looked over Raj, “you say you like to cook but you don't know how to make gazpacho.” Raj chuckled.

“I do love to cook, I wasn't lying. My grandma, before she died, she wrote down all her recipes for me. She taught me how to cook as well, just not many Spanish dishes.” Sofía considered his words.

“What can you cook?” Raj began rattling off his favorite dishes and Sofía listened intently. They talked for hours as the gazpacho chilled, Raj becoming more captivated by her and less by the food, the more time went by.

“It's time to finish!” She ran off to the fridge and pulled out the chilled soup. All that was left was to add the spices. Raj offered to help, he sprinkled some pepper and fresh herbs like basil and rosemary to garnish it. She added the cumin and broke up some day-old bread to make croutons.

“Why the cumin?” Sofía gave a cheeky smile.

“It's an old family secret. It adds a special kind of kick to the soup that gives it a rich flavor.” She tasted a small bit and closed her eyes, relishing the different flavors.

“Abuela! La cena está lista.” She called back into the house.

“My grandma will be joining us for dinner.” Raj grinned, he didn't mind at all.

“I would love to meet the woman who taught you how to cook.” Sofía poured three bowls of the soup, just as her grandma came into the kitchen. They exchanged a few words in Spanish, Raj couldn't keep up, but he imagined by the way the old woman was looking at him, she was wondering who he was.

“She wants to know why I brought an American here. I told her you were hungry and didn't know how to cook even something so… simple. She can never turn away someone who's hungry.” Raj chuckled.

“What is so funny?”

“She sounds just like my grandma.” Sofía smiled warmly.

“Your Abuela sounds like she was a nice woman.”

“She was.” Raj found himself staring into Sofía's soft eyes rather than the delicious soup in front of him, this was definitely a first.

“¡Comer! ¡Comer!” Raj broke away first and shyly smiled.

“She says to eat. It will be rude not to.”

“You don't have to tell me twice!” Raj grabbed his spoon and closed his eyes in ecstasy when the flavors hit his tongue. It was indescribable, the way everything mixed together, the chill a refreshing sensation compared to the heat of the day. Raj thought it couldn't get any better until he found one of the croutons she had made from old bread. The crunch was a stark texture to the creamy soup, Raj was in food heaven.

“You have been awfully quiet?” Raj set his spoon down and grinned, his bowl was almost empty.

“Was it bad?” Raj shook his head.

“No! It was delicious! I didn't want to stop eating.” Sofía laughed, noticing Raj's bowl now.

“Think of it as the highest compliment you could receive.” Sofía relayed the message to her grandmother who smiled, very pleased with herself. As Sofía picked up the dishes Raj knew their time was coming to an end but he wasn't quite ready for it.

“Maybe I can cook dinner for you and your Abuela tomorrow night? I can prove to you that I'm not completely helpless.” Sofía was silent, pondering Raj, his offer, she was curious about him.

“That would be very nice Raj.” he left that night pondering what he would cook to impress Sofia. First thing in the morning Raj jumped out of bed and ran down to the market, he was going to prepare something to blow them away. On his way home, he grabbed a bottle of sangria, Sofía didn't strike Raj as a beer kind of girl. Since it was only three of them eating and not 12, feuding college kids, he settled on pork chops. Raj put them in the slow cooker, so they would simmer all day and remain juicy and tender. As it got closer to the time Sofía and her grandmother would be arriving Raj began to panic. He had decided to do vegetable skewers and roasted potatoes with the pork chops. What if they didn't like them though? If they weren't seasoned well? He had forgotten the dessert! All he had to drink was sangria and cheap beer, what if they didn't like those! He could hear the ice and fruit in the sangria hitting the glass pitcher. He was never this nervous about his cooking and had never been this nervous about a girl, this was all new territory for him. Before his thoughts could spiral any farther the doorbell rang, they were here. Raj checked his appearance in the mirror before opening the door. Sofía and her grandmother were waiting on the doorstep, both of them smiled as Raj opened the door.

“Come in!” He smiled, trying to keep his cool. Her grandmother mumbled something in Spanish and Sofía rolled her eyes.

No. Raj considered asking what her grandmother had said but decided he probably didn't want to know.

“Everything is ready. We're having pork chops, roasted potatoes, and vegetable kebabs. I got sangria to drink, I didn't know what you guys liked. If you'd prefer something different I can go get something.” Raj stumbled over his words as he pulled plates out of the cabinet. Sofía smiled amused as he set the table and pulled out a chair for her grandmother. His grandma had always taught him manners were just as important as the food.

“It is perfect Raj.” she was standing behind him as he put the plates together.

“Want to try a bite?” Raj held up a small piece of pork chop that had fallen back into the pot. Sofía leaned forward to try it and closed her eyes before they shot open in surprise.

“¡Dios mío!” She held her hand up to her mouth and looked at Raj.

“What? What does that mean?” He was worried that she hadn't liked it, pork chops had been a bad idea.

“Raj! That was amazing!” She threw her arms around him and watched with bated breath as he finished preparing the plates. She helped him carry a plate and the pitcher of sangria. Raj set the plates down and pulled her chair out for her before pouring everyone a glass of sangria.

“Please! Dig in!” Everyone ate in silence; the food was too good to speak. The pork chops falling apart on the plate, practically melting in your mouth, the potatoes were cooked perfectly, not dry or too crispy. The vegetables were sautéed, really bringing out the flavor of the peppers and onions. The bright colors of the peppers and sangria, complementing the otherwise dull colors of the potatoes and meat. The grandmother finished her meal first and looked up at Sofía, waving her finger at her while speaking in Spanish. The young girl rolled her eyes and continued to eat.

“Muy bueno, Raj. Gracias.” Her grandmother pushed her plate aside and kissed Raj on the cheek. He knew enough Spanish to know that he had just gotten a compliment, his worries about the dinner far from his memory. Raj cleaned up the plates and was hoping that despite having dessert he would be able to talk to Sofía some more, but her grandmother had other ideas. She said something in Spanish to Sofía who sighed.

“Thank you for a lovely dinner Raj. My grandma is tired, but she enjoyed dinner and likes you.” Raj felt a blush creeping to his cheeks.

“I'm glad you enjoyed Raj's feast. Maybe we can get together again...just the two of us?” Raj was holding his breath, he just went for it. He had never asked a girl out on a date before, he had never met a girl who interested him as much as Sofía though. She smiled and gave Raj a gentle kiss on the cheek.

“Sí. I would like that.” Raj was excited, he had a date, with a girl. Not just any girl, a beautiful girl who could cook! It didn't get much better than that Raj thought to himself. It was a few days later when he had his next date with Sofía, they had agreed to go to her favorite restaurant this time rather than one of them cooking, she wanted to show him some of her favorite parts of Spain. When Raj met her at her place before he finally noticed her outer beauty. She wore a gold sparkly tank top that complemented her skin tone and made her eyes sparkle, even more, to complete her outfit she wore a dark pair of daisy dukes and some brown sandals. Her long black hair was pinned back with braids on the side but otherwise falling down her back in gentle waves. For the first time, Raj was drooling over something that wasn't food. He held out his arm to her and she took it, as they strolled peacefully to the restaurant. It was a small place, right on the water, tucked between businesses. The kind of place you had to know it was there or else you'd never be able to find it. They got a table overlooking the bay, the moonlight reflecting off the water, highlighted the curve of her face beautifully. She ordered them a bottle of sangria and turned to Raj with a curious look on her face.

“What brings you to Spain Raj?” He was surprised when he realized he still hadn't actually told her.

“I have a cooking show. We'll be filming an episode here next week. I always come to scope out the place before my crew arrives. I get a chance to figure out where I want to film, what I want to cook.” Sofia's eyes glistened at the mention of a cooking show.

“What is it like? Having a show?”

“I get to travel all over, try different foods, meet incredible people,” he smiled and reached across the table to squeeze her hand, “and I get to teach others how to make delicious meals.”

“That is very cool Raj!” The waiter returned with their sangria and was expecting their order, he had been so busy talking that he hadn't even looked over the menu.

“What do you recommend Sofia?”

“Empanadas para nosotros dos.” Empanads! Raj loved empanadas, he loved any food to be fair though.

“It's the best thing on their menu,” Sofía remarked.

“I love empanadas, I'm excited to try them at your local spot though.” Sofía smiled at how excited Raj was over something so small. He seemed to her like the kind of guy who just kind of sailed through life enjoying everything and making the most of it. They made small talk over drinks while waiting for their dinner. When it finally arrived Raj dug in, excited to explore what the food had to offer.

“You know, my Abuela likes you.” Raj grinned.

“I am a hit with the older ladies.” Sofía giggled at his bad joke.

“You are funny Raj.”

“And I think you're beautiful Sofía.” She blushed and finished off her glass of sangria, excusing herself to the restroom. While she was gone Raj finished his own glass and paid for the meal. When she came back he looked at her and smiled, he didn't want the night to end and he had a great idea, maybe.

“Want to take a walk?” Raj nodded and gently pulled Sofía away when she tried to flag down the waiter.

“We must pay.”

“I took care of it Sofía.” She looked at Raj surprised, she was the one who had suggested a restaurant.

“Gracias Raj.” He smiled as they strolled down the sidewalk in the moonlight, their fingers lightly brushing against each other. She suddenly grabbed him by the hand and towards the beach. Raj followed after her and plopped down next to her in the sand, the waves lapping at their feet.

“¿Fumas?” Raj didn't have to know what that meant to recognize what she was holding up. A joint was a joint, it was that moment that he knew Sofía was special.

“Definitely.” She lit the joint and took a hit before passing it to Raj who laid down to look up at the stars. She fell back beside him and rested her head on his shoulder.

“I love looking at the stars, it reminds me of a group of my friends, people who are very special to me.”

“Why are they so special?” Raj sighed, struggling with how to explain La Huerta without sounding crazy.

“We went on a vacation together, starting off as strangers, but by the end of it, we were best friends. We went to an island, you could see stars for miles, each one of us was a different constellation. When I look at the stars, I'm reminded of them.” Sofía was silent for a long moment as she really thought about Raj's words.

“I think it's beautiful you love your friends that much.”

“They're beautiful people. I love them very much.”

“They're lucky to have a friend like you Raj.” She sat up and looked at Raj before leaning in slowly. She planted a soft kiss on his lips and pulled away smiling, nervously gauging his reaction. Raj had kissed girls before, but never a girl he liked, he was terrified, but he leaned in for another. The kiss was soft and sweet, Sofia's lips tasted of sweet sangria, she smelled like warm vanilla. They laid there kissing, neither of them sure of how long before she pulled away.

“I should be getting home. My Abuela will start to worry.” Raj got up and helped Sofía to her feet. They walked back to her house, fingers laced together. Raj stopped at her doorstep and she leaned in for one more kiss, he was done for. He really liked this girl.

“Gracias for a wonderful night Raj.”

“The pleasure was all mine. I'd like to see you again, maybe you can come to my cooking show.” Her smile grew and she grabbed Raj's face and planted a soft kiss on his lips again.

“I would like that. Buenas noches.”

“Goodnight Sofía.” Raj walked back to his place on cloud nine.

It was a few days later when his crew arrived in town with the one and only Quinn.

“Raj!” She skipped off the plane and threw her arms around him. Raj tightly hugged her in return, she looked as amazing as ever.

“I'm so glad you could make it Quinn!” She had called Raj a few weeks ago to see how his show was going, and he had invited her to come on as a guest star.

“Me too. I've missed you Raj! How's Spain?” They began talking like that had only seen each other yesterday. He told her about the food and of course the lovely Sofía.

“Oh, she sounds great Raj! Can I meet her?” Raj grinned.

“I invited her to the show today. She's coming with her Abuela who taught her how to cook.”

“That's so sweet Raj. I'm so excited! What are we making by the way? Is it cupcakes, you know how I love cupcakes.”

“We're making Cantabrian cheesecake.”

“Oooh, I love cheesecake!” Raj chuckled.

“It's a little different than New York-style cheesecake but I promise you'll still love it. C’mon, let's go get ready!” They both got pampered by the hair and makeup team. Raj left first to go film his short little segment of picking up ingredients for paella at the market where he met Sofía. After that, he went to the main kitchen set where Quinn, Sofía and her Abuela were waiting. Raj barely had time to say hi before he was pushed in front of the cameras. He went through his normal spiel, explaining what paella was, the ingredients he picked out for it, how to prepare them, and then finally how to cook the meal. Normally he found it easy to stay focused on the food, but this time his thoughts and eyes kept wandering to Sofía who was watching eagerly from behind the camera.

Raj wanted to take a break between segments to talk to Sofía, make sure he had done the recipe justice, but production was rushing him. Apparently, they had one less filming day, he wasn't completely sure on the logistics, he just knew that he was being rushed.

“Today for dessert were going to be making quesada pasiega with my amazing friend, Quinn Kelly!” Quinn came on smiling at the cameras and threw her arms around Raj before giving him a kiss on the cheek. Raj looked out at Sofía and saw she didn't seem to be as happy as she was. He couldn't help but wonder if she was jealous.

“Thanks for having me Raj, what exactly is quesada pasiega?”

“I'm glad you asked Quinn, it's also known as Cantabrian cheesecake.”

“Ooh, cheesecake!” Quinn clapped and put on an apron.

“I love cheesecake!” Raj chuckled.

“It's not like New York still cheesecake though, it's got a very different flavor to it.” They went back and forth with quick jokes and fun while they made dessert, Sofía growing more jealous and suspicious until finally, it was over.

“That's all folks. A special thanks to Quinn for joining us. We'll see you next week when we hit Germany!” Raj heard someone yell cut and ran over to Sofía who regarded him cooly.

“What did you think of the show? How did I do?”

“I think you should ask your girlfriend. I see how it is, I was a fling before she came!” She raised her voice, her Spanish accent getting heavier the angrier she got.

“No, Sofía. Quinn is not my girlfriend. She's one of those special friends I was telling you about, the constellations.” He gently squeezed her hand and Raj looked into her eyes.

“Come meet her.” Raj motioned for Quinn and she came over, instantly pulling Sofía into a hug who was caught off guard.

“You must be Sofía! Raj told me all about you, he really likes you.” It became clear to Sofía quite quickly that Quinn was just one of those people with a bubbly personality.

“It is nice to meet you.” Sofía returned her hug and Raj relaxed a bit.

“So, what did you think? Was my recipe good?” Sofía smiled.

“It looked good but how does it actually taste?”

“Let's find out. I didn't invite you all here just to watch me eat!” Raj served a plate for everyone but gave Sofía a tester bite from the pan. She pondered for a moment before turning to Raj.

“This is muy bueno Raj.” He grinned.

“What does your Abuela think?” They both turned to look at the old woman who gave a thumbs up.

“If Abuela approves then I'm happy!” They all laughed and began eating before Raj pulled out the cheesecake for dessert. Quinn and Sofía chatted happily over the food as if Raj wasn't even there.

“Well, I'm really tired after the long flight so I'm going to go. See you later Raj, it was so nice to meet you Sofía.” Quinn hugged both of them and skipped off. Abuela had disappeared somewhere leaving just Sofía and Raj.

“What now Raj. What happens next?” Raj sighed. He knew this moment was coming but it didn't make it any easier.

“My show is moving onto Germany in a few days.” An uncomfortable silence hung between them.

“I see.” Was all she had to say.

“Maybe I can see you again before I go?” Sofía wouldn't meet his gaze.

“Maybe.” She walked away to find her Abuela and they left, leaving Raj standing there, unsure if he had made the right decision. Raj texted Sofía and asked her to meet him at the restaurant she took him too, he waited for hours and hours. Finally, he gave up and left, a full bowl of gazpacho sitting across from him. His plane left the next day, normally Raj was excited to see move on to the next country, to see what it had to offer, but this time Raj just wasn't feeling it. He slumped down in his seat and arrived in Germany a few hours later. He knew he should be out, exploring, figuring out where he wanted to film but instead he found the nearest bar and helped himself to a sample of the various beers. By the time it's crew arrived he really hadn't done much but drink beer but they made it work. Raj was filming but he was lacking his normal charm, he couldn't stop thinking about how he left things with Sofía. He had never felt about someone the way he felt about her, everything about her was incredible, especially her cooking.

“Cut!” Raj realized he had been lost in space and burned the meal he was cooking.

“I'm going to take a break.” Raj went outside to smoke, it always helped to calm him down.

“Are you going to share?”

“I'm hearing things now. It's La Huerta all over again.”

“Again?” Raj looked up and blinked a couple times, Sofía was standing in front of him.

“Sofía are you really here right now?” Raj stood up and thought about hugging her but decided not to.

“Sí. I was stupid to not go to the restaurant. My Abuela was angry, she told me to come here.”

“I always liked your grandma.” Sofía laughed and they both stood there awkwardly.

“Why did you come though? You live in Spain, I don't.” Sofía grinned sheepishly and looked at her feet.

“My Abuela had an idea. I think it is good.”

“Let's hear it.” Raj lit his blunt and took a drag before passing it to Sofía, both of them nervous.

“She said she will teach you to cook if you help her write a cookbook and put her name on it. You must stay in Spain though.” Raj almost said yes immediately, it would mean being closer to Sofía but there was more to it than that. Raj sighed.

“I want nothing more than that, but my producers might not…” Sofía sighed and nodded.

“I understand. Think about it Raj.” She started to walk away but Raj jumped up and grabbed her hand.

“Screw production! I want to learn your family traditions, I want to spend time with you.” Sofía smiled and threw her arms around Raj to kiss him, it caught him off guard but he couldn't be happier.

THE END

EPILOGUE

Raj moseyed on down to Sofia's in the morning like he did every day. His Spanish had gotten quite good since Abuela began had been teaching him her recipes and helping her write a cookbook. He knew it was going to be a big hit, at least that's what his production company told him and that's why he was allowed to stay. They had a deal, he could live in Spain and work on this cookbook but once a month he had to leave for 2 weeks to film an episode for the show. Raj was happy with that, it meant that for the rest of the month he got to see Sofía who he had come to love. She roped him in with her cooking, but he stayed for everything else. He had finally found his person, he never quite understood what his friends were talking about when they found their people on La Huerta, but he was happy for them nonetheless. As Sofía glanced up at him with a quizzical smile, flour on her face, he finally understood.

Tagging my finer things club 💖: @zaffrenotes @likethetailofacomet @ooo-barff-ooo @endlessly-searching-for-you @sleepwalkingelite @agent-bossypants

and people who might like this (idk sorry!): @leelee10898 @princesstopgun @choicesyouplayandmore 

[callmetippytumbles]

Home, A TRR Fanfic Series, Part 5 [1 /2] (MC)

Tippy’s note: Since tonight is Choices Fandom Night In, I figured I would try to get this up tonight instead of tomorrow.  The other half of this will go up tomorrow.  Fingers crossed.  I was working on this for a while and while looking at Part 5 there is a lot going on.  There are two separate narratives now blending into one.  It felt weird having it all in one place, so I split it. This part is still with Halle, the next part is with Liam.  I have to admit, I like writing Halle’s parents.  They are fun.  Tricky in some ways but fun.  

Disclaimer: Choices owns this and I do not.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

Words Counted: 2,338 Rating: PG Pairing: Liam x MC (Halle), endgame

Tagging @tmarie82 and @mfackenthal for Fandom Night In

Tags:  @youwontlikewherewewillgo @sleeplessescapades @jasoncrouse @lizzybeth1986 @hopefulmoonobject @ayo-minty-jess @flyawayblue56  @drakewalkerwhipped @drakelover78 @umccall71  @writtenbycandy

Summary: Joanne forces Halle to leave the house with her, I will continue to suck at summaries for Halle’s parts.  Hilarity ensues.

Halle was pouring a glass of orange juice in the kitchen.  She sat casually at the table taking in the silence and solitude.  She still had so much to think about. Halle looked at her WhatsApp again.  She would start a message and stop.  

Liam, I…

Delete.

I am sorry for leaving, but I needed thi--

Nope.  

I miss you.  I’m sorry.  I lo--

Not enough.

She placed her phone screen down on the table and pressed her back to the back of the chair as her mother entered.

“Morning, Halle.”

“Morning, mother.”

“Glad to see that you are awake at a reasonable hour.  Wish you were dressed though.”

Halle raised her eyebrow.

“Because we are going out.”

“We?”

“Yes, we,” Joanne clarified.  “We have stuff to do today and you are not going to bum around my house for free.”

Halle looked at her blankly.

“It’s not like you have got any plans outside of moping about that boy.”

“That boy?”

Joanne placed her hands on her hips.  “Are you being intentionally dense?  Have you been bewitched?”

Halle continued to stare at her mother.

“Fine.  Come with me because your mother likes shopping with company and your father is determined to stay in.”

The sound of Harrold’s slippers clapping against his heel and the floor could be heard before he was seen.  

“Not all days have to be get up and go, Joanie,” He said as he entered the kitchen.  

Harrold hugged his wife from behind and she presented her cheek for a kiss.  He dutifully kissed her on the cheek and walked over to Halle to kiss her on the forehead before making his way to the fridge.

Joanne sighed.  “I suppose they don’t, but I am not going to sit here and be idle.  Neither is Halle.”

“Actually, I would very much like to be idle.”

“Baby girl,” Harrold started while his daughter groaned at the juvenile nickname.  “While I would like to relax and enjoy some quiet time with a book.  I think you should go out with your mother.”

“What! I thought you were supposed to be on my side.”

Her father peered at Halle over the fridge door.

“You know what I always say to that argument.”  

Halle deadpanned, “The only side I am on is the side of goodness.”

Harrold nodded.  “That’s right.  Now go out with your mother.  Bond.  Breathe fresh air.  Let an old man read alone in peace.”

Joanne cleared her throat.  “I didn’t think I would have to use bribes on a full ad-dult, but if you come with me there will be jerk crab for you.”

Halle perked up.  Her mother was pulling out the stops.  Jerk crab was not a frequent occurrence in the Berry household.  Joanne usually reserved it for special occasions and when she happened upon some decently priced crab.

“I know you can’t say no to that Halle,” her father bargained.  

She looked between her parents.  There was clearly some collusion going on.  The only thing unclear was to what end.

Harrold narrowed his eyes.  “I won’t let you refuse this.  Go upstairs and get dressed.  I will get the cooler from the garage ready for the crab.”

She hesitated, looking from her mother to her father.

“Go on now.”

Halle wordlessly obeyed her father and went upstairs.  Ten minutes later, a casual outfit change of denim shorts and a simple breathable shirt and the two women set off.

***

“Mom, you passed the exit for the market.”

“We are not heading to your average supermarket.  I am in the mood for special crab and I want something fresh.”

When Halle heard that she slumped in her seat.  What was supposed to be a small outing was clearly going to be much longer.  

Twenty minutes into the extended trip and neither mother or daughter have uttered so much of a word.  Only silence punctuated by Halle’s sighs.  

“This silence is too much,” Joanne started.  “I took you out so you would be too busy to mope about like your problems are not your own.  I would hope that you would talk about it more if you were going to insist on dwelling on them.”

“There is nothing to say, mom.  I ran away from Liam, my fiance, who is a literal king because I didn’t like how being with him changed me.  Now I want to talk to him and I don’t know what to say.”

“Well, most conversations start with a salutation.  Have you tried saying ‘hello?’”

“It’s not that simple, Mom.  I ran from him.”

“They have words you can use when you think you have wronged someone.  Like ‘sorry.’”

“I am sorry that I hurt him.” Halle met her mother’s gaze in the rearview mirror before adding, “I am not sorry that I left.”

“Halle, you are about to marry this man.  Your lives, your worlds are going to unite and change.  Right now I know you feel that because you are marrying up the greater burden of that change falls on you.  You have had to accustom yourself to the Cordonian--it’s Cordonian and not Cordonese or some other word--”

“It’s Cordonian.”

“Anyway you have had to live that life but you don’t strip away all of yourself to be there.  Some of Halle, and your life before him can live in that fancy palace too.  It certainly has the room.”

“I feel like I did strip away all of myself.  I agreed to a transvaginal exam.”

“They did what?” Joanne’s eyes widened as she glanced over at her daughter.

Halle nodded.  Joanne took a deep breath and continued.

“I know that being there is hard, but I am not trying to victim shame or whatever the internet says is correct, yet I have to ask: what did you think you were getting involved with when getting in bed with a foreign monarch?”

“Mom,” Halle groaned incredulously.

Joanne puckered her lips, waiting for a response. 

“I cared about Liam.  I felt like that night, talking to him, being around his energy--it was different.  He is unlike anyone I have ever met.  Still.”

“That is the feeling that you let guide you.  Well, that and Jesus.  Mustn’t forget God and Christ the King.”

Joanne held a reverent hand to the sky.

“Halle, your father and I have been married for nearly four decades.  Love didn’t carry us through all of those years.  Some of those times we made it, barely, but we did.  That is not because Harrold and I were settling or just staying together for you and Hakim.  We have been empty nesters for ten years if it was just you guys holding us together we would have been separated.  

We make an active and concerted effort to build and strengthen that bond.  If love is doing all of the work of keeping your relationship together, there is no room for it to do what it’s supposed to do.  Love eases the burden.  It doesn’t carry it for you.”

Halle thoughtfully nodded her head.  

“At least with Liam you can do it with high thread count sheets,” Joanne quipped patting Halle on the knee.  She chuckled to herself, tickled by her own comment as she continued to drive.

About an hour later, Joanne and Halle arrived in Wilmington.  If you were going to shop for crab and you wanted the best available you had to go to the coast.  This was true of any seafood, anywhere.  The best is always at the coast

Halle breathed in the salty ocean air as she and her mother entered Oceanaire Crab Company.  While the storefront was not impressive from the outside, the assortment of seafood within made up for it.  Halle looked around the shop.  Her sandals clicked on the blue and white checkered floor as she appraised one of the massive lobster tanks.  She looked over at her mother who was already haggling with one of the attendants.

The attendant tried to be firm with her mother.  “Ma’am.  Snow Crab legs are twelve dollars a pound if you are buying over five pounds.”

“And I most certainly am,” Joanne insisted.  “I think you can part with twenty pounds for ten dollars per pound.”

“Ma'am I don’t know if I can do that.”  The attendant shifted uneasily in his shoes.

“Well, get me someone who can.  I’ll wait.”  Joanne planted her feet on the ground and folded her arms.  

Halle joined her mother.

“Twenty pounds?” she asked, raising her eyebrow.

“You think I should get more?”

“Mom, you do realize that it’s just me, you and dad?”

“Halle, you really underestimate how many pounds of crab you and your father can eat in a sitting.  When you were in your teens, you easily put away one-and-a-half pounds.”

Halle balked.

“Besides, I have this feeling that there may be more people coming so I need to have enough.”

“What do you mean by that?”

Before Joanne could answer, a middle-aged man with a dingy mustache and a sheen of sweat walked over to where the women were standing.  

The man clasped his hands together before speaking. “So, I hear that you have a problem with my current pricing.”

“I most certainly do young man.”

Fifteen minutes, seven “young mans” and $198 dollars later, the cooler was filled with twenty-two pounds of crab legs and free ice to keep them cool for the 90-minute drive back.  On the road, Halle was still asking her mother about her earlier comments.

“So you are just not going to answer the question?”

“What question was that?”

“You said that you have a ‘feeling’ that you were going to need to feed more people.  What makes you think that?”

“I just do.--”

“You just--”

“Speaking of which I do not have time to do greens.  I may do a salad and some cornbread.”

Joanne roughly turned right, crossing over two lanes.  Halle held the handle by the passenger window for dear life as a cacophony of car horns aired behind them.

“Mom!”

“You hush,” her mother sternly chastised.

At their next stop Food Lion, Joanne was perusing the condiments aisle pondering over salad dressings.  

“You still like Italian and Thousand Island right?”

“Ye-yes.”  Halle thought of the salad dressings the chefs at the palace made with sundried tomato oil and fresh basil, thyme, and oregano.  “Can I make the salad dressing instead?”

Joanne smiled.

“I mean, I know you are trying to keep dad somewhat healthy--”

“Which is a task.  Let me tell ya.”

Halle nodded.  “Well, I remember a recipe I had in Cordonia and it’s definitely heart healthy.”

Joanne looked Halle up and down.  “Alright then, Halle.  Get the ingredients and meet me at the registers.”

While she was in the produce section getting the fresh herbs for the salad dressing, Halle turned and noticed Rhon by the onions.  He looked up and their eyes met.  Rhon smiled and made his way over to her.

“Hey, Hal.  I see that you are still here.  What brings you over to the market?”

“The same thing that brings everyone here.  Food.”

“Well you do need to eat,” Rhon appraised her before adding, “You are losing your thickness.”

Halle cocked her head to the side.  “My thickness?  Maybe this is my grown woman body.”

“If you say so.”

She shook her head.  “Anyway, where is Jaleesa?”

“She is with her mother for the next few days.  We co-parent.  It works for us.”

“I see.”

Halle and Rhon stood for a moment.  Both unsure of what to say to the other.  They didn’t have to wonder for long as Joanne barreled towards them.

“I said to meet me at the registers and you have me waiting for more than 10 minutes.”

“It’s my fault, Mrs. Berry,” Rhon apologized.

Joanne’s jaw tensed before she took a deep breath and relaxed.  She smiled as warmly as she could given her annoyance.  

“Hello, Ron.  It’s nice to see you again.”

“Nice to see you too Mrs. Berry.”  He looked at the both of them and already knew the usual drill when the older woman was around.  “I guess Halle and you have to get going.”

“Yes, we do, unfortunately.  We have a lot of crab in our car that will not jerk itself.”

“I understand,” Rhon said heading to his cart.  “It was nice seeing you again Hal.”

He turned away to continue shopping.  

“Wait, Rhon-Ronald.  We do have a lot of crab.  An extra couple of mouths would be especially helpful.”

“Mom, are you--”

“Yes.  Rhon, come to dinner.  Halle--I mean--I would love to have you.”

“Are you sure Mrs. Berry?  I don’t want to cause any trouble and quite frankly I didn’t think you liked me enough to feed me.”

Joanne sighed.  “I’m extending a hand and some crab legs.  What do you say?”

“I can’t say no to some free crab.  I’m in.”

“Wonderful.  Are you done with your shopping?  Do you need to make sure some of your ingredients get refrigerated?”

Rhon smiled.  Halle stood back unsure what to make of what she just saw.  She knew better than to ask questions and just let her mother cook.

The three of them left the market.  Halle and Joanne rode in their car and Rhon followed behind them.

“Mom, was this the feeling you had that made you buy over twenty pounds of crab leg?”

“No.”

Halle gave her mother a questioning glare.  

“I am a mother,” Joanne reasoned.  “I have intuition and go with it.”

Halle started to speak but as they turned on to the street of their house, she noticed that there was an extra car in the driveway.  Harrold’s station wagon was in the garage because her mother would be damned than let her father’s car be seen in public next to her home.  Halle’s rental Civic was in the front and they were in her mother’s Acura.  She checked behind her and Rhon was still tailing them.  There was an unaccounted for SUV in the driveway.  

As Joanne got closer a thought crossed Halle’s mind.  

It can’t be.  Can it?

Joanne stopped the car in front of her house.  Halle quickly unbuckled her seat belt and bolted for the front door.  

“Halle!” Joanne called out after her.  “What is the meaning of this?”

Halle turned the unlocked door to enter her home.  Her mother’s voice fading behind her.

“I can’t even park in my own driveway.  This is some nonsense.  The black ass nerve.”

She rushed inside.

He’s here?

Part 5 [2/2]