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mskenway97 · 4 months

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Tfp merformers a.u Optimus x Reader.

I felt inspired for this one, I wanted to make it an everyday thing, there is a bit of a language barrier. But I thought it was adorable. I choose a human reader

Warning: None

Words: 829

(Merformers) Tfp Optimus Prime x Gn!Human!Reader

Fishing time

Today was not a lucky day for Y/N. The tide was calm on a sunny day, in the boat. A lot of trash had been picked up this week, no fish were in the area.

Y/N was desperate to catch something, otherwise she was going to get kicked out and the boat was not hers. Although fishing wasn't her thing, she just wanted the boat to see her huge sea friend.... None other than a blue, red and white whale.

Literally that whale had saved her life in a storm. He wanted to know more about her without exposing her to danger. Only the mere thought that Y/N would never see her again tore him apart.

-Let's go mince little fish....

Y/N cast the rod with the bait, only to see that it barely moved after a while he saw that something was moving. Y/N saw the opportunity to cast as hard as he could, "I'm going to get lucky" thought Y/N but as he pulled it out.

Another boot.

-Oh come on! I'm already going to wear a shoe store with so many boots! - Y/N said to himself as he cast the rod again.

This time the rod moved faster, Y/N smiled as he cast it looked like it was going to be the good one but he saw that it was too heavy.

-Come on, it's possible... Ah!

Y/N fell into the water because of the force that pulled the rod. He felt huge hands around him and pulled him out of the water.

To see Optimus somewhat surprised.

-Hello big guy! I didn't expect to find you here - Y/N smiling.

Optimus left me in the boat as he made a few small grunts and pointed to my fishing rod.

- Ah, what do I do? Fishing and I'm not doing so good," said Y/N.

Optimus noticed Y/N's face, which was somewhat frustrated and sad. He had told her to fish... Maybe he needed some help, the big guy dove down leaving Y/N confused, thinking maybe he was in a hurry, after a few moments with no luck he saw that Optimus had returned showing something big in his hands.

- Wait... that's a swordfish! -Y/N was startled as the boat wobbled a bit and she remained calm.

Optimus was confused the quality of the swordfish was a splendid specimen, something Y/N would surely help with.

- People would ask me a lot of questions about how I got it....

Optimus released the swordfish and dived again.

A while later he came back with something else. Y/N walked over to see that it was an octopus that had latched onto it.

Optimus was trying to get it off her. After a while he succeeded but Y/N was a little depressed.

- I'm no good at fishing! I wanted to dive and explore? But if I don't... I won't be able to go back - said Y/N as he sat down Optimus' face was in front of it and nuzzle to Y/N.

It was humid, it was nice especially in summer weather, she smiled a little at the gesture, Optimus purred a little.

- I should make it clear with the fish I want.... Look it would be something like this.

Y/N pulled out a log book of the fish in this area, showing Optimus which ones she wanted.

Those fish, most of them had gone to other waters the record was out of date.... At least since photo was still around the area and they were plentiful.

Optimus carefully dragged the boat.

Y/N did not know where Optimus was taking him as he was unfamiliar with this fishing area. It was a little different than what she was used to seeing until it came to a stop. Y/N heard Optimus grunting and pointing to the fishing pole. Y/N didn't have time to answer him as she had already submerged underwater. Y/N didn't know what he was up to but he took the advice to grab the fishing pole and get on with it.

She waited for a while until he saw that he was biting not trash but several fish! She was amazed as she caught a good amount of fish. Until she saw Optimus come out of the water.- This is great, Optimus with these fish! They won't throw me out are the amount I needed! Thank you so much," said Y/N as she jumped right into his hands and hugged one of his fingers.

Optimus on the other hand was happy to help her. He knew the difficulties Y/N was having with the job had, he met her by accident and seeing her go was not something he wanted her to go. Besides being one of the few beings that freaked out when she saw him.The presence comforted him, it was different....

Maybe next time she would take him to give lessons in something else.But at least they both got the big fish.

#sam writes #transformers #transformers prime #optimus prime #tfp #tfp optimus prime #optimus x reader #optimus prime x reader #merformers #maccadam #maccadams #tfp optimus x reader #tfp optimus prime x reader #transformers x reader

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minaramen · 2 years

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Torao Midou - 16 Idol Album - Part 3: Playtime with friends

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Torao: Superheroes… we only played superheroes together

Torao: They were the only things that connected me with my older brother except from blood, since we were years apart

Torao:....never mind

Minami: Oh, Historangers, the World’s Four Great Civilization Squadron. Some older child actors I used to know appeared in that show

Haruka: I don’t think I know it

Torao: I guess you were more into the next series, Satsumago Kai the Bakumatsu King of Beasts

Haruka: Yeah, that one! How nostalgic…!

Haruka: But in the end things got so vague, and I don’t remember what the last part was about…

Torao: It became problematic because it turned out that enemies had their good reasons as well. It was quite a unique situation

Torao: You can still find the last part featured in programs like “Nostalgic TV shows”

Haruka: Now you sound like you’re possessed by Rokuya Nagi from Idolish7…

Minami: You still watch it in the dressing room with the corner of your eye, when they feature the episodes on the TV

Torao: Mh? I don’t…They’re just in my field of vision

Touma: I understand your feelings! I glance at it as well, it’s so nostalgic!

Touma: I was happy to hear a story about little Tora! The gap is pretty good!

Haruka: Yeah. At least, it’s way better than a Torao hitting on every single woman he meets

Minami: I think the current Midou san has charm as well, but when I think about the pure boy he was back then I find him somehow cute

Torao: Give it a rest. I didn’t choose this picture because I wanted people to think I was cute

Torao: How did you guys have fun?

Touma: Let’s see… I used to go to the park and climb the jungle gym. We competed over who would reach the top first, or scrambled to get possession of the castle…

Haruka: Was it Tom Tiddler’s Ground? How nostalgic, I played that game too!

Haruka: But you’re not supposed to play in a jungle gym, are you? You should use trees that are in the park or some puzzling sculptures

Minami: Sculptures are pretty common. In a park you can easily find things like octopus and elephant sculptures, and even monuments with indefinable shapes

Torao: Does a park really look so much like a museum…?

Touma: No, it’s not such a splendid place! The park I used to go when I was a child didn’t have anything like a monument

Touma: There was only a jungle gym and some swings, then a slide, an exercise bar and a sandbox

Minami: Oh dear, in my opinion that’s a splendid park

Touma: Naw, there were places with much more to offer

Touma: Like those that have playsets where slides are included into the jungle gym, or animals you can ride and swing on

Haruka: Those animal playsets are pretty indefinable as well. Sometimes there are bugs, other times rabbits…

Torao: I can understand rabbits, but…bugs? Are children happy with that?

Minami: I guess they’re quite particular steeds

Touma: I loved them when I was a child! Even now, when I see them, I feel the urge to take a ride!

Touma: Ah, but I don’t do it! I’d just like to, but I don’t!!

Minami: Nobody said anything, Inumaru san

Haruka: You should just ride them, if you want to!

Haruka: Then I’ll sneak a pic of you from behind and upload it on Rabbiter

Touma: Stop it!

Torao: What kind of playset did you like, Haruka?

Haruka: The slide was the one I liked the most! Grandma used to wait for me at the end of the slide. Then, after I slid down ten times, the game was up for me and we went to buy ice-cream on our way home

Minami: Fufu, what a precious memory

Minami: I….well, I’ve been a child actor ever since I can remember, and I only went to parks for recordings

Touma: I bet you got surrounded by many parents and children who were interested in watching you when you went!

Haruka: You surely could make many friends!

Minami: Well, I couldn’t take enough time for that. You weren’t used to going to park as well, were you, Midou san?

Torao: No, because I’ve been kept in a golden cage. They didn’t let me play outside so I wouldn��t get injured

Torao: I played superheroes alone inside the house, or with my two older brothers

Torao: Now that I think about it my brother took time out from his busy schedule to play with me

Torao: It must have been hard for him dealing with a brat who was ten years younger than him. I could never do that. Using my free time to line up at a toy store…

Minami: I’m sure those were moments of reprieve that your brother holds dear

Torao: Who knows

Torao: Even now if I happen to meet my brother, he persistently asks me what superhero is popular nowadays

Torao: Not the kind of speech that a man who passed his twenties should make

Minami: Surely…he’s trying to keep a connection with you

Torao:....... well, maybe

Touma:........! Play superheroes with us!

Torao: With you?

Touma: Just like they keep you connected with your older brother, superheroes could connect the four of us…or something like that

Torao:.......!

Haruka: I agree. Tickling Torao must be fun!

Minami: Let me play the villain, please. I’m pretty good at it

Touma: Alright, let’s do it now!!

Touma: Which superheroes are we? You choose, Tora!

Torao: Hey, you must be joking. Aren’t we too old to play around?

Touma: It doesn’t matter! Also, there’s nobody here except for us

Touma: You can play with all our strength and laugh like an idiot, you can even skin your knees, and nobody will scold you

Touma: We’ll play with you, Tora

Torao:....! Ahah, that’s crazy…

Torao: Let’s say it’s the opposite. It’s me playing with you. Don’t forget I’m a professional playboy

Haruka: What does it mean?

Torao: Something that Yuki from Re:vale told me. “If you’re a pro, play with all your strength like a pro would do”

Minami: As always, he has quite a curious way of speaking

Torao: I’ll play, then. With all my strength. I’ll do it with you too…

Torao: On stage too…

Touma: Okay, so which superheroes are we?

Torao: We could be the Four Great Civilization Squadron. Too bad we don’t have any transformation items, however…

Haruka: Is it okay if I make one? I mean, with cardboard. I made plenty of them with cardboard when I was a child

Torao: I see. So, there’s also this way of making them?

Minami: I’ll go and ask if they have some cardboard, then

Torao: It’s getting interesting…if we have to make it, that’s definitely the best way

Torao: I’m gonna play for real, just like I do on stage. Wear your Miracle Historangers’ belt and join me!

End

TL notes:

Thank you so much Gloria for sending me so many helpful recordings, including Torao’s 16 Idol Album!

Next up... Yuki’s I-Hake!

#idolish7 #ainana #idolish7translation #torao midou

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cassielovesanime · 3 years

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Since one of my friends asked for anime suggestions, I figured I would make a small list for them here as a post.

1. Welcome to demon school Iruma Kun

Type: comedy and school life

My personal summary: a hilarious anime about a boy who gets adopted by the king of demons. The protag is very likable in my opinion as he is a good guy but also a doormat so it’s fun to see him grow with his friends. Just genuinely very fun, but also follows somewhat of a story line and can have its touching moments. Just 10/10 if you want a good light hearted laugh I would say. Highly suggest for those who want to watch a casual anime that will make them laugh.

2. Toilet Bound Hanako Kun

Type: fantasy and school life (also bit romance)

My personal summary: girl meets spirit boy with a dark side and now is his assistant because she effed up because she is a little boy crazy for handsome guys. But it’s okay cause now she goes on whacky adventures with spirits and is trying to get to know the spirit boy who kinda saved her and continues to save her. This one is both funny and sweet, but also can be dark at times. The characters all have very interesting personalities and dynamics, and the cast is actually pretty small so you get to see a lot more of the main characters develop. Very good story wise and character wise. Highly suggest to lovers of fantasy but are also not too into anime.

3. Assassination classroom

Type: Comedy, coming of age, and School life

My personal summary: Teenagers are earths last hope to be saved from destruction as they are tasked to kill their teacher who looks like a man and an octopus had a baby that has super strength and speed. This is my all time favorite anime, and it is a very, very, VERY touching underdog story. It has so much humor but also so much darkness but so many of the characters feel real and it still to this day has arguably the saddest yet most satisfying endings in anime that I have seen, and I watched it back in 2017ish. It just has a bit of everything and the storyline is amazing, the characters are so well written, and the concept is very interesting as well. I just would not recommend this to those who aren’t comfortable with fan service, as it does appear a bit often in this one. Highly suggest to anyone who wants to watch a found family or underdog story. Also, amazing English dub, one of the few animes I suggest the English dub over the English sub (English sub is good too, but I love the dub so much).

4. Bloom into you

Type: romance, coming of age, school

My personal summary: very gay, and very well written. It’s a story that follows Yuu Koito who is a late bloomer who doesn’t get love, which she has constantly read in the media and had this big expectation for. She then meets her schools class president who takes a liking to her knowing Yuu doesn’t think she can fall in love with someone. This is very good I think for lgbtq+ rep as it takes the topics very seriously and handles them respectfully. It handles questioning sexuality and finding yourself, as well as taking pride in it. It expresses both being a lesbian and asexual, as well as late bloomers and domestic lesbians. It also handles topics of mourning and bad ways of coping and expectations from what I remember. I am more of a manga reader but I have heard splendid reviews about the anime, the only thing is that this series is a lot more serious and the anime isn’t finished (the manga is though, so I suggest this path more if you can afford it.) highly suggest for anyone wanting lgbtq+ rep.

5. Rascal does not dream of bunny girl senpai

Type: sci-fi, romance (this one doesn’teel like school at all but they are high schoolers)

My personal summary: a sci-fi take on high schoolers teenage years and problems, following Sakura as he tries to help and solve the cases of people with “adolescence syndrome”, which is surrounded by their problems and insecurities in life that causes abnormal and supernatural things to happen. Very compelling story and again is more serious, but it also knows how to hit you in the feels. The main characters are lovable and have one of the best romances I have seen in anime, and all the other characters are really likable too. I highly suggest to anyone interested in a good story because this one just takes the cake.

6. New game!(!)

Type: slice of life

My personal summary: mc is a girl who gets a game designing job right out of high school and now must work on a team with her idol. Very light hearted, and also quite gay in my opinion. I personally like slice of life yuri genres and etc., but this one is my favorite. The cast is lovable again (always important), and it has this theme of working hard and going after your dreams. It is one with a bit of fan service (far less than others, but still a warning for my younger friends following), but it makes up for those moments with very heart felt moments between characters. I genuinely adore the second season as for a slice of life genre, it follows a bit more of a story and it gets a lot gayer. However, being a slice of life it isn’t really explicitly lgbtq+ rep, but there is one couple that has major subtexts and moments and a really cute scene at the ending. I do suggest this to those who like the slice of life genre and perhaps want a bit of lgbtq+ rep, but not to anyone who doesn’t like slower paced stories. Oh, and also the art style is adorable.

7. Rampo Kitan: Game of Laplace

Type: mystery, bit of a thriller

My personal summary: just a really good detective series. I haven’t watched this one in two years, but whenever I think about a dark mystery series, this is one of the top 3 to come to my mind, and is the most underrated one. It’s just very dark but also very compelling, so I suggest this to anyone who likes those sort of things. It also has an amazing English dub.

8. Little witch academia

Type: coming of age, fantasy, school life

My personal summary: another underdog story about a girl who dreams of becoming a witch like her idol and going to witch school… must I say more? It’s the gay witchcraft vibe that we all adore, a funny and lovable story that follows a girl chasing her dreams to become a witch. Again, likable characters, and an interesting story. It also has a unique art style that is adorable, and is very accessible seeing as its on Netflix. I highly suggest for younger viewers as this one is very kid friendly from what I know, but is also an amazing story with a nice fantasy aspect. Also, there is a bit of gay subtext and a hell of a lot of diakko shippers for wlw content if you like that (with a rival to lovers dynamic). MC can be paired with a guy or girl depending on how you wish to interpret it, and that screams bi rights to me :)))

#Cassie suggests #welcome to demon school iruma kun #toilet bound hanako kun #tbhk #assassination classroom #assclass #bloom into you #rascal does not dream of bunny girl senpai #new game!#new game!!#new game! anime #game of laplace #rampo kitan game of laplace #little witch academia #lwa

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cephalo-trio · 4 years

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Deepsea Escape Part 6

A Splatoon 2 Story written by Splat-Tendency

Starring: Lexi Camellia (POV)

((Lexi was on her way to deliver the last mail at first, and then she wakes up in the underground subway station. She has no clue where she is or how is she going to get back to the surface. She has no choice, but to venture through this abandoned station alone.))

"Eight. Can ya help me out for a bit?" Cuttlefish asked, after I brought the 2nd thang to that phone guy. He happened to be holding a notepad and a pencil. "We have been traveling through this facility for quite some time. Yet, I still haven't seen Agent 3.."

Agent 3 did say, he was going to investigate a little further after our encounter. "Yeah, sure. What do you want me to help you with?" I got up from my resting bench and approached the captain.

"I need you to describe what he looks like. That way someone might know where he is." Cuttlefish got his pencil ready, waiting for me to describe Agent 3's appearance.

"Fine, I guess.." I nodded. "He's around my age.. His hair is half-shaved, different from the casual hairstyles.." I described to him, specifically as Cuttlefish is scribbling on his notepad. "And his face has a few battle scars.. And his eyes are amber, too.."

I couldn't stop thinking about that iron-willed agent. Then again, he used to be my enemy when I was an elite trooper. ("Why do I care about the agent who got me into this mess...? Then again... he did found me while I was unconcious and gave me some snacks..") I would hate him, but he was a lot kinder when I first met him for 4 years..

"Agent 8? Earth to Agent 8!" I snapped out of my daydreaming as Cuttlefish called me. "Is this what're talking about?" Cuttlefish had drawn a pretty good sketch of Agent 3. How did he draw so fast, I wonder?

"Y-Yeah.. That's him." I nodded as I took a good look at his appearance. He's a lot different than our last encounter, 4 years ago.

"Splendid! You'll post this on the this wacky telephone. If anyone has seen Agent 3, we'll be sure to find him! Right now, there's only 2 left to find! I'm counting on you to get us outta here! Never give up hope!" Hope. This is what Cuttlefish has said to me once we returned to the train.

"Pearl.. Mind if I ask you something?" I asked them while I continue to collect the Mem Cakes. I'm currently in the E-Line in search for the 3rd thang.

"What's up, Eight?" Pearl is the one communicating with me, while Marina is typing away on her personal laptop.

"Earlier, Cuttlefish told me to never give up hope.. What even is 'hope' to you..?" I asked her out of curiosity. I have been fighting my way through a lot of challenges.

"Hope, eh?" Pearl replied. "Well it's like if you're feelin' down, you gotta get back up and go with the flow. Rina over there is the reason, I never give up hope. Ever since we first met and started makin' music"

"Awww.. Pearlie.." Marina was actually blushing.

"Listen, Eight. Don't let anyone bring ya down. We'll be there 100 percent, yo!" Thanks to Pearl, I'm motivated to keep going.

"I see.. Thank you for your time, Pearl.." I hung up after our conversation. When I do escape, I wouldn't mind listening to their music.

A few tests later, I stumbled upon another station between E-12 and F-01. After a lot of struggles, I'll soon have a chance to get home. The more I travel deep into the underground, the more worried I get.

"So, this is the Drop the Bass station..." I read the sign once I arrived at my destination. Something about this battle arena seemed familiar.

"Something seems a bit off, don't you agree Cap'n..?" There was no mistaken it. I have been to this area before. Was it just a coincidence?

"Nothin' familiar to me.. Just that much pile of green gunk on the floor." I shruggged hearing Cuttlefish's response. It could be yet another horde of the Sanitized trying to stop me from clearing a test.

Without delay, I took the launchpad and super jumped into the battlefield. C.Q Cumber has recommended me to use the Dualie Squelchers for this task. I don't pay much attention to the other weapons as of late but this will indeed help me.

As I ventured closer to the huge pile of sanitized ink, I saw a few jolts in the air. Before I could react, something colossal emerged from the ink. It was a huge cube-like enemy with short legs and it happened to be coated with some kind of silver armor. The huge enemy has a huge tentavle like the ones I've seen back in Octo Valley. My jaw dropped as I recognized what that thing is.

"Th-The Octo Stomp..?!" I cried as I stood still like a deer caught in the headlights. "I don't understand..!! Why is one of the Octobosses from the Canyon here..?!" This new form of Octo Stomp is extemely different than the one in Octo Canyon.

"Did you just say the Octo Stomp..? 4 years ago, Agent 3 splatted that thing to a pulp! Isn't he your ally, Eight..?" Cuttlefish remembers one of the Octoweapons all too well.

"Now's not the time for a history lesson, Cap'n..!! It's about to attack me..!" The Octo Stomp Redux charged straight towards me, leaving a huge trail of ink. It was so fast, I managed to get away from his assault.

Suddenly, an Octotrooper appeared on the top of his head. Along with the built-in Splatling, the trooper began shooting at me. With all the bubbles this Octostomp is creating makes it hard to move around. I noticed there was some kind of shield on his nose. That must be a weakpoint.

I made a b-line through the tainted ink, avoiding enemy fire. "Now, take this...!!" I dodge rolled forward to directly shoot at the face guard. That was enough to break open his coat of armor.

"Good going, Eight! It's armor is gone!" Marina was analyzing the enemy's weakness. "Still.. To think there are also a sanitized versions of the Octobosses.."

"I have no idea either, Hyperfresh.. We'll talk about it, later.." After contacting with Marina, I heard a loud roar from the Octostomp. Now that his armor is broken.

"Cry all you want, I'll just keep my distance.." I safely backed up before the Octostomp does another bodyslam. Or so I thought.

Instead, he made a long jump and slammed against me, causing my battle suit to break from the impact. As I shrieked in pain, I was tumbling down to the bottomless pit. Luckily, I quickly grabbed the ledge with one hand. "W-What the hell...?!" I winced from the tainted ink touching my skin. I was careless and didn't the long jump coming.

I thought back to what Pearl just said. To never give up hope and get back up. With all of my might, I climbed back up from certain doom to restore my suit's armor. That impact made me drop my Dualie Squelcher on the floor.

The Octostomp was still on the lookout for me. It seems it'll be pointless to reason with him at this rate. I stepped into the area again to pick up my weapons. That didn't take long to notice me.

The Octostomp got up close and personal and tried to drop his whole weight on me. Now that I'm in range, I can climb up there and up an end to this fight. As the enemy slammed down, it started blowing bubbles from both sides. Without warning, I recklessly climbed up the enemy. The contact from the bubbles does sting as I winced, but I didn't care. This fight will be over soon.

"To think they could duplicate the same boss tentacles in order to create the Octobosses... I bet Marina might analyze this ASAP.." Before I splatted the Octostomp, I took a quick snapshot on my CQ-80 for evidence. To think this device does a lot more than just gather and spend points. I quickly shot the huge tentacle, creating a massive explosion. I morphed into an octopus and jumped out of here safely.

The Octostomp was no more as it bursts into a huge puddle of my ink. My test is complete, but the whole duplication thing was bothering me. "I have to report this to Cap'n and Marina.." I stared at the picture. There's one mystery that needs to be solved.

Meanwhile back on the train, I got an earful from Cuttlefish while he was treating my minor injuries.

"I know you're still eager about gettin' us outta here, but.." Cuttlefish sighed as he patched up my arm from that harsh blow. "Don't go pulling a reckless act in the near future.. Otherwish you'll do more damage than your back.."

"Sorry.." I apologized to Cuttlefish. My back hasn't recovered just yet and it still stings. "There's something I wanna show you and Marina.. It's about the enemy that I fought.." I pulled up chat log and sent the photo of the large sanitized tentacle. "Something's been bothering me after I completed my task.."

Marina and Cuttlefish examined the tentacle, trying to figure out who or what created those sanitized beings. "It looked like the same tentacle that dragged me down in this facility..!!" Cuttlefish cried. "It happened when I was looking for Agent 3!" He points at the image on the holograph.

"Wait.. That's how you ended up here..?" So, he didn't just fall into the hole like I did. That same tentacle tried to attack Cuttlefish. "...Marina. Think you can locate the other bosses on the map..?" I asked Marina since she knows her way around the facility.

"Of course! Give me a sec..." After a few types away, Marina finally revealed the last three bosses's locations. "I've all ready pin point their locations, Eight. You'll be able to find one of the bosses between the F and J line."

Pearl looks over Marina's shoulder and noticed someting interesting. "That ain't all, Eight. There's the 3rd thang in the C line. You can nab that while you're beatin' the carp outta those things!"

I nodded to the two idols. "I'll do my best as always. This time, I'll proceed with caution!" I'm finally halfway there to the end. I'll soon reach to the surface and see the light. My friends must be worried sick about me. I still need to about my father's whereabouts. I guess, escaping the underground comes first.

To Be Continued...

#;;lexi #;;agent 8 #;;plot: deepsea escape

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clownsgobeepbeep · 5 years

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Shark Week

@grotesquegabby I find Lennie being a grandpa so adorable, so I wrote this fic about some possible future with his grandson X3

That wonderful time of the year finally came through.

Shark Week.

Ah yes, and visiting the aquarium was a great way to start off the week.

“I am so excited! This week is gonna be so great!” Cordelia exclaimed as she, her brother, and her father walked down the path leading to the front entrance to the aquarium. “Mom really outdid herself this year.”

“Well that’s because of the little fact we learned some time ago.”Lennie smiled, pushing on a small stroller that was meant for dolls but instead contained a baby due to its reliable sturdiness and such. It was perfect for Lennie’s height unlike normal strollers, and it even looked normal, but smaller.

“The little guy here loves sharks so much.”Lennie added as he now looked over at Basil who was strapped in the stroller, even wearing little shades so the sun wouldn’t hurt his eyes.

Basil turned to look at Lennie who smiled at him, especially with the shark patterned overalls he wore. The baby looked around the area, pointing at what was a banner with sharks.

“We’ll see those soon enough.”

Once the family was allowed inside, Lennie turned to his kids.

“You two go on and have some fun. Me and Basil are gonna give your mom a quick visit.”

“Where do we meet up?” Davey asked before his sister tugged on his arm, excitedly jumping around.

“Davey! Let’s go to the seal show! It’s about to start!”

“I’ll meet you there then.” Lennie chuckled before Cordelia booked it, not even waiting for Davey who gave a small groan and walked after her. Meanwhile, Lennie walked the opposite way and away from the crowd where there was a room labeled ‘Employees Only’, but he was of course allowed to roam wherever he wished.

_____________

“How are the numbers for guest satisfaction at the moment?”

“Quite high, the surveys we received prove that guests are greatly enjoying the aquarium even more than usual, and the same goes for your park and pier.”

“Fin-tastic, as my husband says.” Jelly giggled to herself as she looked outside the large glass of her office that worked as a window, looking over the aquarium filled with guests. “And how are all the children? They’re not scared of the sharks, correct?”

“Of course not. They have in fact even asked to pet said sharks, but we have not allowed that to happen on those not in the touch tanks of course.”

“Splendid. I think that’s all I’ll need for now.” Jelly waved a hand behind her at her employee. “I’ll call you if I need you.”

“Yes Mrs. D’Vitt. There is one more thing however.”

“What?”

“You have some visitors.”

Jelly turned around as the office’s door opened, feeling a large and surprised smile come across her features at who she now saw.

“Oh, Lennie! You brought Basil!” she excitedly ran around her desk and towards her husband who now stood next to the stroller, smiling as Jelly kissed his lips before going over to Basil. “Hello my little great white shark! Our outfits are matching today!”

Jelly took Basil out of the stroller before he clung onto her, putting his head on her shoulder as they hugged.

“I am so happy you two could come by.”

“Actually, Davey and Cordelia are here too.”

“Where?”

“They said they were going to the seal show.” Lennie chuckled as he followed Jelly to the glass she originally stood in front of, both looking at where they spotted their kids in the front row of the show. It was obvious because of Cordelia’s bouncing around.

“And are you taking Basil to see the sharks?” Jelly asked as Basil now pulled himself away.

“Of course, but I’m saving the best for last.”

“Are you excited to see all the sharks Basil?” Jelly giggled as Basil nodded his head, and she reached up to grab his pacifier to carefully pull it out. “Let Mama Jelly see those big shark teeth!”

Basil opened his mouth as he showed his teeth which no doubt looked like a shark’s, and he even grit them as if to bite the air.

“Oh! So ferocious!” Jelly exclaimed before reaching over to her desk where a glass bowl was, then holding up a gummy shark that Basil took, biting into it rather happily, even if his face didn’t show it. “Alright, time to go back with grandpa.”

Lennie smiled as he took Basil who held onto him while still chewing on his gummy.

“Once you’re done with everything, or just whenever you want, head on over to the Shark Reef and get whatever souvenirs you want. And get the best shark plush for Basil.” Jelly gently pinched the baby’s cheek. “You can’t miss it, you’ll walk into a giant shark mouth.”

“Got it, any food recommendations?”

“Right by the Shark Reef, just call me over so I can give Basil some food that he’ll like.”

“Okay. I’ll sea you around Jelly-Bean.”

“Yeah yeah, see you around Sharky.” Jelly playfully rolled her eyes, then waving at Basil who gave her a tiny wave. “And you too Basil.~”

_____________

“How was the show?” Lennie asked as he got to the seal area where guests were already walking away, except for Davey and Cordelia who approached him.

“It was so great dad! I got to pet Silver!”

“That’s because you made him come over to you.”Davey stared at his sister who shrugged and flipped her hair.

“Animals just love me a lot.” she scoffed before looking at Basil and crouching down to be closer. “How are you doing Basil?”

The baby looked up at her as he bit into a shark shaped cookie Lennie had gotten from the shop mentioned by Jelly, then offering it to Cordelia who giggled.

“Why, thank you Basil!” she grinned, then pretending to take a bite out of the cookie which Basil then continued eating.

“Where are we off to next dad?”

“Why don’t we stay here and look at the seals through the glass? I think Basil should see every animal here.” Lennie suggested before his kids nodded, then following behind him as they headed to the large tank containing said animals. Once there, they stood in front of the glass where there were seals swimming and playing around, eventually noticing the family. Cordelia ran to one side as the seal followed her, and then to another, repeating herself a few times before Davey calmed her down and the seal took notice of Basil. It swam over to be in front of him, Basil placing a hand on the glass as Lennie had already taken him out of his stroller.

“This is a harbor seal, or called phoca vitulina by scientists.”Lennie told Basil who attentively watched the seal who spun in place to entertain him. “They’re kind of related to dogs and bears, isn’t that funny? And their big eyes help them see in the dark.”

Basil brought his hands away from Lennie, bringing them in front to clap the back of his hands a few times.

“Your mom’s been teaching you how to sign for animals, huh?” Lennie chuckled before Basil looked back at the seal, making the motion again as the seal flipped around, making Basil bounce in Lennie’s arms quite happily.

“Let’s go over to the beluga whales next!” Cordelia exclaimed before once again running off, Davey sighing as he took the strolled and walked besides Lennie who still carried Basil as the seal attempted to follow them. When the seal could no longer follow, Basil waved at it as the seal practically waved with its tail.

They soon reached what was the darkened area belonging to the beluga whales, all swimming and even joking around with guests, especially scaring children(and adults) by opening their mouths in surprise.

Cordelia was pressed against the glass as a beluga swam by, then turning to her unexpectedly which made her jump back with a laugh.

“It got me!”

“Let’s see what Basil thinks about the belugas.”Davey chuckled as he took the baby while Lennie hesitated.

“Davey, I don’t want him getting scared.”

“Don’t worry dad, he’ll be fine.”Davey insisted as he held Basil up in front of the glass, everybody watching as a beluga whale swam by. When it was at a close range, it turned to Basil with an open mouth in an attempt to scare him, but Basil didn’t flinch one bit. Instead, he flashed his teeth at the beluga who immediately swam away in fear. The other belugas noticed this, swimming far from the glass as well before Davey brought Basil back down.

“Maybe we should go check out the sea otters instead?”

_____________

“Now these I think you’ll like Basil. They’re one of your grandma’s favorite creatures.” Lennie presented a tank to Basil after they had already gone through a series of other animals, even witnessing as Cordelia tried to take an octopus with her. She and Davey had decided to take a break and go eat something, leaving Lennie and Basil alone.

“Jellyfish, kind of like your Mama Jelly’s Squishies.”

Basil’s eyes looked over the floating creatures, all going with the gentle and soft flow of the water they were in. He lifted a hand and made a pulling-like motion, signing ‘jellyfish’.

“Exactly. There are so many types of jellyfish, your Mama Jelly’s favorites being the moon jellyfish. These guys right here.” Lennie pointed to one. “They’re all invertebrates and these ones specifically are so harmless despite being able to sting. They’re fun to watch under lights because they’re clear. If they were to eat brine shrimp, they’d turn orange!”

Basil pointed to his hair as if to ask like his, despite the locks currently being black like his father’s human self.

“Yeah, just like your hair. But they look lavender or pink when they eat crustaceans, always looking a different color depending on the setting. Like here they’re blue. And speaking of colorful, look at this one.” Lennie presented to Basil as a new tank was shown, revealing a red jellyfish. “That’s the bloodybelly comb jelly.”

Basil soon perked up at the sound of the word ‘bloody’, making Lennie give a laugh.

“They just look a little like blood, but they have a nice little glow effect, this being because of the cilia they have which diffracts light. Because of this, they propel through the water, it almost reminds me of a beating heart.” Lennie told Basil who held up a hand, a glow emitting from his palm which was pretty surprising. “Whoa, that’s...pretty nice.”

Basil nodded before Lennie walked on over to another tank.

“This one reminds me of your mom, it’s called Flower Hat Jelly.” Lennie turned to Basil who shut his eyes for a few seconds, then opening them, but quite drowsily. “Aw, are you starting to get tired?”

Basil gave another nod before rubbing one of his eyes, then laying his head on Lennie’s shoulder while hugging him.

“Well, I guess we should go home now, huh?” he pat Basil’s back as he headed away from the tanks and into a place with a lot more light. “Guess you won’t see the sharks then.”

Immediately, Basil lifted his head and was now wide awake as he looked around, realizing that the floor was moving through a large, clear, glass tunnel. His eyes widened at the sight of a large figure swimming over them.

“That’s a pretty funny head. Goes great with nails.” Lennie laughed to himself as Basil started to excitedly bounce in his arms again, pointing to the hammerhead shark. “That’s the scalloped hammerhead shark, relative of the oceanic whitetip, tiger and bull shark.”

“Oooh dad! Give me Basil!” exclaimed Cordelia as she now ran towards Lennie, Davey eventually coming along while they watched the large shark in awe. Lennie handed the baby over to his aunt, and she held him high with his face up, Basil reaching towards the glass, making it seem like he was touching the shark’s belly. Basil was simply amazed.

“Come on guys, onto the next room. Basil’s gonna lose it over this one.”Lennie motioned as the baby was lowered down and held against Cordelia’s chest who he accidentally dug his claws into due to this new excitement he felt.

“Look over there Basil, the kelp forest.” Davey pointed at an insanely huge tank containing kelp and a plethora of fishes swimming around. “There’s some sharks in there too. Lots of them.”

Basil’s eyes followed what shimmered brightly under the sun’s rays, it was like hundreds of silver lining rapidly moving to one side and then the other quite gracefully. But soon, his eyes landed on a face, staring into the open as he saw set on the ground near the glass.

“That’s a horn shark, they like to stay in caves or just be in the shadows in general. They prefer to crawl because they don’t swim too good.” Lennie shared out to Basil who got on all fours, then crawling over to what was considered closer to the shark’s location, then pressing his face against the glass.

“Basil be careful.” Davey laughed before pulling the baby away, lifting his chin so he could look up before his different colored eyes widened. “Look at that shark, it’s a leopard shark.”

Basil clapped his hands at the sight of the shark who swam right by him, Davey helping him onto his feet as he now had his hands on the glass. He gently tapped the glass with his hands as he looked at Lennie who was sitting down, but he scooted over towards him.

“They’re pretty nice.”Lennie nodded as he looked at the sharks as well, but he soon looked up at the ceiling when somebody spoke over the speakers. He smiled once they were done talking, Basil noticing this, but he didn’t understand why, especially because he didn’t understand what was even said.

“Come on, I’ll show you something even better.” Lennie picked Basil up as he wiggled his legs around, then holding onto Lennie while Cordelia and Davey walked behind him. “No other aquarium or sea center has this because they don’t know how to properly take care of one. But your grandma, she’s a very smart woman, and of course has a few tricks up her sleeve.”

Basil blinked at Lennie, then turning to his uncle and aunt in confusion. He looked up ahead where very many others rushed to go, before Lennie approached an employee who allowed the family to be seated in the front row. The baby was placed on a seat between Lennie and Davey who looked at him excitedly, the sunlight going through the water to create a blue atmosphere.

Once again, a voice spoke over a speaker while Basil looked around at excited and extremely nervous expressions, then turning back to the glass near him and his family. Lennie reached over to grab Basil’s hand, smiling down at him before he as well looked at the glass. Soon enough, Basil could not believe his eyes.

A.Great. White. Shark.

The giant fish swam across the glass as Basil reached his little hands out to it, practically in love at the sight. He didn’t hear as the speaker boomed with somebody’s voice again, only focusing on the shark who swam away and then back, this time heading straight for the glass. People were no doubt terrified at this sight, but Basil watched in wonderment as the shark looked straight at him.

_____________

Davey carried Basil as everybody now exited the seating area to view the great white shark, and he noticed how bounced like he had never seen before.

“Somebody clearly liked that.”Lennie commented before grabbing one of Basil’s sneakers in attempt to calm him down, the baby then looking down at him. “How about we go touch some sharks now?”

Basil froze at the sound of that, trying to wiggle himself out of Davey’s arms immediately after.

“Okay, okay, relax. Give him to me.” Lennie laughed before Davey handed him the baby who was still so excited. They finally reached the area where all the touch tanks were, and Lennie approached the shortest one before he let Basil take a look.

Meanwhile, Cordelia was already reaching into a much larger tank and taking out the sea stars and urchins while Davey told her to put them back.

“Look at these right here. They’re not gonna bite you, so you can touch them.” Lennie whispered to Basil who finally relaxed, slowly reaching a hand out to one of the sharks that swam close by. He felt a shiver as his fingers and then hand were submerged in the cold water, then feeling his eyes widen when his fingers grazed against the shark’s fin.

“That’s it, just like that.”Lennie chuckled while rolling up Basil’s sleeve, allowing him to reach further into the water to now touch the shark’s back. Basil let out an out of character sound which made Lennie give a surprised laugh, so glad at how joyful his grandson was. He was so precious.

“Look, another one’s coming!” Lennie exclaimed as Basil got ready to touch the next shark, or at least that was what Lennie thought.

“How’s he holding up dad-” Davey started before his and Cordelia’s eyes widened in complete shock, seeing as there was now a shark out of the tank and in Basil’s arms.

“Basil!” Lennie gasped before Cordelia gave a squeal, Davey then laughing loudly once his bewilderment was gone. “Basil noooo.”

Lennie chuckled to himself upon realizing that Basil had managed to pull out the shark out of the water, hugging it close to his chest while it attempted to wiggle away. As Davey continued laughing, Lennie shook his head before carefully taking the shark from Basil, then returning it to the water where it instantly swam away.

Basil gave a whine as the shark was now taken away from him and he was brought away from the tank, his aunt and uncle still laughing and wiping tears away from their eyes.

“Guys, come on. It’s over.” Lennie quietly laughed to himself as Basil now had his typical stoic expression. “Let’s go to the shop. There’s something I need to get.”

__________

When arriving to “Shark Reef”, Davey and Cordelia parted ways with themselves and Lennie to look at the several souvenirs provided. Meanwhile, Davey headed over to a large wall with a giant surfboard design. Basil turned to look at it, surprised at all th sharks he saw.

“Choose whichever one you want.” Lennie told him, Basil looking over every plush toy, then pointing to one. His grandpa chuckled to himself, grabbing the plush toy which was of course a great white shark. He handed it over to Basil who immediately hugged it tightly for a while. Once “finished”, he turned to look over at Lennie before hugging him tightly as well.

Lennie smiled to himself before hugging the little baby back, hearing the pop of a pacifier going out of Basil’s mouth, and then something else.

“Grandpa.”

#lazy lennie #basil the slasher clown #cordelia the mermaid ballerina #davey the sailor clown #jelly the clown #and a tiny surprise~

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travelonlinetipsofficial · 3 years

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10 Best Romantic Restaurants in Rome

New Post has been published on https://www.travelonlinetips.com/10-best-romantic-restaurants-in-rome/

10 Best Romantic Restaurants in Rome

In planning the most romantic holiday of your life in Rome, the one thing you’ll need to know before you get there is where to eat. After all, what goes hand in hand with love and romance if not food?

The eternal city is full of restaurants and bars and whether it’s a trattoria, pizzeria, a gelato or Michelin star dining experience you’re after, you can bet you’ll find it in the eternal city.

But that special romantic occasion, say a proposal or an anniversary or for when you really want to impress on Valentine’s Day, make a booking in advance at the best restaurant in Rome – if not Italy – La Pergola. Located at the Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, it boasts 3 Michelin Stars and is the only one of its kind in Rome. Featuring a terrace with a spectacular view of the city, not to mention the food and wine, this is a once in a lifetime dining experience. For another terrace experience with views you won’t soon forget, Mirabelle doesn’t disappoint and Adelaide is one of the new gems in Rome, located at the elegant Hotel Vilon.

Other favourites, boasting a star in the Michelin Guide include Francesco Apreda’s Idylio, located within the stylish Pantheon Iconic Hotel, Domenico Stile’s art deco Enoteca La Torre, Cristina Bowerman’s Glass Hostaria and Riccardo Di Giacinto’s All’Oro. Each with their own personality, the atmosphere or the food won’t disappoint. For the hottest addresses in town, you can’t beat Retrobottega or Pianostrada and for young, fresh and fun fine dining, head to Antonio Ziantoni’s Zia in Trastevere.

Happy eating in the city of love!

Walking along Via dell’Arancio you could be mistaken for missing Hotel Vilon. This luxury boutique hotel sits inconspicuously in Rome’s high end Tridente shopping district and is an elegant and nicely hidden plush gem. The in-house restaurant Adelaide, is an ode to the Princess Borghese, former resident of this historic site. Procida native, Chef Gabriele Muro has devised a stylish and eclectic menu that brings together his coastal heritage, international experience and local produce. Seasonally changing, find dishes like his gragnano grain spaghetti ‘ajo, ojo e baccalà’ with salt cod, the roast octopus (polpo in Italian), entertainingly entitled Polp Fiction and one of his signature dishes, the tender braised veal cheeks on the menu. The roman classic pastas including the carbonara and amatriciana make an obligatory appearance too. Open at lunch and dinner, enjoy the warm hospitality of Adelaide away from the chaos of Rome. Be sure to say hi to Magdalena Rodriguez, the expert bar mixologist who will prepare a spectacular aperitif or after dinner drink for you. METRO: Spagna

Recommended for Romantic Dining because: Modern and elegant dining, right by the Colosseum is a win-win combination.

Maria’s expert tip: Arrive early and have a ridiculously good cocktail in the lounge bar.

Read more about La Pergola →

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zipperdry57-blog · 5 years

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Three Days in Charleston

Travel

by Jenn P. | on April 3rd, 2018 |

When Vinny asked me what I wanted for Christmas last year, I replied “nothing”. Then I said, “Wait. I take that back. I want you to plan a weekend away together” because I am wise and all-knowing and pretty much always itching to get out of town if time and finances allow. On Christmas morning I opened an envelope with an itinerary he created– a few nights each in Charleston and Savannah, with print-outs of the most expensive hotels in each city because Christmas mornings are for wildest dreams and looming debt. We delayed booking until we filled our vacant apartment, but once we did, we hopped online and decided to go away for our 15th anniversary. We didn’t end up staying in the pricy, dreamy places he’d originally picked out, but that’s okay because Charleston and Savannah are pretty dreamy on their own.

WHERE WE STAYED:

The Ashley Inn: We stayed in room 5 of this cute pink bed and breakfast very conveniently located in downtown Charleston. We booked it last minute on bedandbreakfast.com, and were very pleasantly surprised by its location and the fact that it lead out to a slightly more private section of the home’s wrap-around porch.

PROS: Clutch location! Around the corner is one of Charleston’s best breakfast spots (The Hominy Grill) and just past that are two really great restaurants– Xiao Bao Biscuit (I’ll circle back to this!) and R’s Kitchen, which we wish we could have tried. The b&b is about a 10-15 minute walk to King Street, which is the main shopping/restaurant row in town. Also, I gotta give props to that four-poster bed. It’s rare that I sleep so comfortably when I’m not in my own home.

CONS: B&B purists will be none too thrilled at the check-in process. No one greeted us, and we never met an innkeeper. Rather, our keys were obtained from an envelope in a property down the street. Breakfast was also served down the street, but I never ended up going for it since Charleston is known for its food! But the biggest drawback (and it’s a big one frankly)… there was no coffee in the building! Not one sweet, sweet drop! Who could live like this? Seriously, this place needs to set up a keurig or something in the main area, because that’s just bad hosting, in my opinion. On the brighter side, the lack of in-house brew forced us to get up early and beat the crowds for breakfast:). Another thing to know before booking is that the hotel is a few blocks from the medical center and we heard emergency helicopters hovering overhead a few nights which scared the shit out of me until I realized what was going on.

NEARBY: The Hominy Grill, R’s Kitchen, Xiao Bao Biscuit, Sugar Cupcakes, Candy Shop Vintage, King Street

HOW WE GOT AROUND: By foot! If you stay downtown there’s really no need to rent a car. If we weren’t able to walk, ubers were plentiful and inexpensive and every single driver was so sweet and friendly we couldn’t get over it. Charleston is a super quick flight from NYC (I think it was less than 2 hours!) and a great weekend destination for people on the East Coast. We went in March, which was perfect timing since we’re about at the end of our ropes with winter weather.

WHAT TO DO:

Our intention in heading down to Charleston and Savannah wasn’t to “do” much, but to stroll, soak up a little spring sunshine and eat until our top buttons cried uncle. We met all these goals. We didn’t really do that much in Charleston except wander around and explore, punctuated by feedings. Downtown Charleston is super walkable, and there are a million guides on the internet to lead you toward the most popular areas to walk around in. South of Broad, Rainbow Row, the Battery, King Street, down by the water. It’s all very photogenic, clean and charming. That’s what we did the first day and a half– walked around, dipped into little stores, ate.

We also visited a plantation in nearby Mt. Pleasant, and I certainly would recommend that as well. There are a few to choose in the area; we chose the one that offered the most insights into what life was like for the slaves on the plantations. Boone Hall Plantation is the only plantation in the S.C. Low country to present a live presentation of the Gullah culture adapted by African slaves and they have eight former slave cabins you can walk through to learn more about the conditions for slaves on the plantation. (and yes… I suppose some people will choose this one over others because The Notebook was filmed here).

MOST IMPORTANTLY…WHAT WE ATE

Poogan’s Porch– Recommended!

We tried: Country Fried chicken with gravy and mashed potatoes (very much like the Chicken Fried Chicken I grew up eating in TX), Lump Crabcakes with creamed corn (super generous with the crab, but they could have punched up the flavor a bit), pimento cheese fritters with green tomato jam (the real MVP), and she-crab soup–very tasty but realllllly heavy. This soup is basically on every Charleston menu, but this was the only time we tried it so it’s hard to say whose is best. Very good food, super charming atmosphere, lovely service, a little on the pricier side. Oh yeah… great cocktails too!

Hominy Grill– Highly Recommended!

We tried: Bread Pudding French Toast with Bourbon Caramel Sauce (as good as it sounds) and their classic Shrimp and Grits with scallions, bacon and mushrooms over cheese grits (like heaven, but seriously). I just loved this place, and it was literally a five-minute walk from our inn, which was perfect to beat the morning crowds. On our second visit, I had the grits bowl topped with mushrooms and leeks (and side order of bacon I got to crumble on top:), and Vin got smothered eggs over biscuits. Fantastic and inexpensive. Get there early for breakfast because it gets totally packed, but there’s lots of good reasons why. I wish this place was in my neighborhood.

Sugar Bakeshop- Recommended (pop in if you’re already walking toward King Street)

We tried the Lemon Curd and the Raspberry. Small, light, lovely little place. Definitely worth a stop if you’re already in the area but I wouldn’t necessarily go out of the way unless you’re a total cupcake fiend (I’m not. I’m more of an ice cream gal).

Fleet Landing- Recommended, especially for atmosphere

We tried: Fried Green Tomato Stack layered with tarragon crab salad (for $8.99, this is an amazing deal and it was delicious!), Lump Crab Cake Sandwich with Red Pepper Remoulade (we’re used to paying through the nose for any dish whispering the word “crab” in NYC, so we ordered crab at almost every restaurant in Charleston!), the fish special which was served with a tomato relish, black-eyed peas and Charleston red rice (twas just ok). Great spot downtown, very popular and super nice if you’re looking to eat outside by the water. Not my favorite meal of the trip, but did the job.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams Highly Recommended!

I’m an ice cream gal, and this place is indeed splendid. If you’re ever in a town that has a Jeni’s shop, you must pop in to sample their excellent flavors made from premium ingredients. Top billing goes to Wildberry Lavender and Brown Butter Almond Brittle.

Xiao Bao Biscuit Very Highly Recommended!

All the in-the-know gals who travel to Charleston (thanks Victoria!) rave about this place and for good reason– it’s incredible! On the website, it’s described as “Asian Soul Food - Select dishes from China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam prepared locally & inspired by kick-ass grandmothers everywhere. ” We tried the popular cabbage pancake topped with bacon, an octopus tail and a crazy beautiful spicy salad (the menu has already changed for the season and I can’t remember what any of the dishes are called). But trust me, when you need a quick break from heavy home cooking, this place really hits the spot! Charleston truly is a foodie’s paradise, and not just for Southern cuisine.

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit Very Highly Recommended!

Line up early because this place is small, popular and fantastic! Vin had a breakfast sandwich on a biscuit (which was bomb) and I just tried two little guys (cheese & chive, which was really good and Black Pepper & bacon which was utterly mind-blowing). On King Street, so if you’re already shopping around, pop in! This one qualifies as an absolute “don’t miss”.

Circa 1886 - Very highly recommended (for a splurge). We went to Husk in Savannah, and I have to imagine this place beats Husk- Charleston. If you’re looking for a romantic and special meal for your trip, this is the spot! The restaurant is in the carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion (one of the fancy printouts Vin made on Christmas morning) and serves some really exceptional high-end Southern cuisine.

We tried:

Appetizers: BUTTERMILK FRIED ARTICHOKE HEART with Parsnip Puree, Tomato Marmalade, Black Truffle Pesto, Basil, Baby Spinach, Prosciutto (good, but not as awesome as it sounds)

NIMAN RANCH PORK CHEEK with Spaghetti Squash, Pickled Green Apple, Crispy Kale, Herb de Provence Glacé (very very good, very tiny)

Main Courses: COFFEE BRINED ANTELOPE with Sorghum Sweet Potato Mousseline, Braised Greens, Pineapple Relish, Shishito Peppers, Coconut Crema (Amazing!!! So many flavors– everything was covered)

BENNE CRUSTED DUCK BREAST with White Peach Grits, Broccoli, Carmelized Shallots, Sour Vanilla Tea Demi Glacé (I will dream about white peach grits for a very long time–such a subtle flavor that worked perfectly with everything else on the plate. Really fantastic!)

Dessert: CHOCOLATE BENNÉ CAKE Jivara Mascarpone, Ganache, Benné Butter, Lace Cookie

This was the best dessert I’ve ever had. The chocolate was practically unsweetened and the benne seeds (which are popular in the Carolinas, and are basically sesame seeds with a more toasted flavor) added lots of texture and crunch. My life’s mission is to recreate it. Plus, how pretty is this thing??

What we Missed: Husk, FIG, Jestine’s, R Kitchen, Leon’s Oyster Shop ( I hear the fried chicken sandwich is spectacular and I’m still sad I missed it!).

Jenn P.

30-something psychotherapist. Loves cooking, hosting parties, exploring new places. Texan by birth. New Yorker by choice. Likes to tell little stories. Pull up a chair; I'll tell you one.

Source: http://muchtomydelight.com/2018/04/three-days-in-charleston.html

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furederiko · 7 years

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Kyuranger is dancing its way to build teamwork! Groove it out, only on a Winged-Horsed episode 6...

- Now that the prologue episodes (as officially confirmed by TOEI) are behind us, it's time for the real work to begin. We get a quick reminder of what the Malistrates and their Planetium-sucking Conzumars are doing on Earth. There are at least 12 on the map shown in this episode, thus making the planet's liberation as their first priority. Our MotW is Malistrate Denvil, who apparently has a penchant for organized rule, and... uhm, calisthenics. - But before they deal with that, Hammy proposes to assign a Leader for the team. And well, nominates herself. This heats up the team, because Garu thinks Lucky should take the position. In the end, everyone aside from the carefree Balance and Spada wants to be in this 'election' too, so whoever nails the first official mission will get the part. With Dorado Yellow and Libra Gold not in the race (among the current away team), things get quite hectic among Leo Red, Lupus Blue, and the ever competitive Chamaeleon Green. Particulary between the latter two who VERY easily get into arguments. - That's when Commander Xiao sends the Pegasus Kyu Globe to assist Leo Red (through a rather inconvenient and ineffective method IMO). Intriguingly, it's not some passive Kyu Globe like we expect. Heeee? It SPEAKS?! Yes, it's actually a sentient being that calls himself Mr. Pega (VA: Masaki Terasoma, who's famous for voicing Kintaros in "Kamen Rider Den-O"), and immediately attaches itself onto Leo Red's torso. Sure, this isn't the first time in Super Sentai (Shishi-Oh much?), but it makes for a fine twist. As a supposed 'power up', Mr. Pega enhances Leo Red's speed and attack power... but not through the 'usual' way. After all, he's actually acting on his own free will, completely taking over his host body's control! Bouncing around recklessly. So not exactly a power up, huh? LOL. - Oh yeah, by the way, we finally get the official All-Star Opening Sequence now. Stinger is among them, without his desert coat too (parading that khaki-colored shawl underneath the Rebellion jacket, and that black leather pants)! So the odd gaps are no more... though for some reason, there's a huge empty space right next to Dorado Yellow. I wonder why? Hmmmm. Quick trivia: Did you know that the opening theme song "LUCKYSTAR" by Tomohiro Watano (of Project R.) is currently sitting on the Oricon chart's Top 10? THAT's how popular it is. Carry on... - Who would've thought that Commander Xiao had a heroic history with Mr. Pega, huh? His story sounds too outlandish though, that it's beginning to become... a little difficult to believe. I mean, that paper theatre is saying much, right? My goodness, I'm in love with Naga's 4th-wall-breaking reactions. Comedy GOLD! - Lucky is considering the winner of the challenge and is appointed as leader. But even Mr. Pega doesn't believe he can handle his teammates. Yep, our heroes stand no chance against the neatly-coordinated minions (and Earthling slaves) of Denvil, so Commander Xiao proposes them to have... a DANCE practice. Huh? Well, what do you expect from a dancing maniac, eh? Aside from Stinger (who is lucky to be somewhere on Earth), everyone has to participate in the training hall! Yes, the Orion has one, which is a neat little thing. But using what dance number? Their very own "Kyu Globe Dancing!" by an Earth-based singer Tsuyoshi Matsubara of course. LOL. And as suspected, their first attempt turns out to be a huge hillarious mess. Because they simply aren't in sync with one another. - Speaking of the ending theme, I've listened to the full version of the theme songs from the recently released Single. And well... this track is a good example of how the TV cut sounds MUCH enjoyable than its full-length. At least, for me personally. I thought the song would go all out with the speeding-tempo bit, but alas that only happens in the final chorus. So if you ask me, the full one is not that much recommended, because it's a bit of a letdown. Stick to the TV Size if you're already into it. - Stinger runs into two assassins while searching clues to why Earth is so special. Ikagen (VA: Yoku Shioya) and Madako (VA: Eri Kitamura, the voice of Juri Han in "Street Fighter"), who are obviously based on squid ('IKA' in Japanese) and octopus ('TAKO' in Japanese). Ikagen is the more interesting one, because he keeps including the word 'Ika' in his speech. Reminding me of that particular Kalos Pokemon. Judging from the Jark Matter emblem they are carrying, these two MIGHT be Malistrates/Menasters, though to be a Menaster they have to represent a constellation like Eridrone. So that's not confirmed for the time being, and even Stinger thinks it's much wiser to evade them. - While Lucky continues to 'have fun' with the practice (building bond and trust with Mr. Pega, which can be seen on a separate clip), Hammy and Garu give up and walk out from the training. They think it's a waste of time. Thankfully, because of this, they get a brief personal time to have a heart to heart moment. Specifically, the main reason why Hammy insisted on becoming the Leader, and why she has been 'distant' towards Lucky all these time. I'm loving this. This is a good example to why conflicts are necessary in storytelling, because it enables characters to grow. In this case, Xiao makes Hammy realize, that she has misunderstood Lucky's primary virtue. SWEET! A very splendid morale message as well, to not judge a book by its cover. Too bad we can't see more of the guys practicing in their pajamas though... LOL. - "Kyu Globe Dancing" vs "Denvil Calisthenics", which one would win? The answer's obvious: the power of teamwork. Then again, seeing the Kyurangers fighting in tune of a disco music is trully an exciting thing, right? Makes you want to shake your body and groove along. Thanks to this, Mr. Pega even earned his own roll call: The Dancing Star, Pegasus Leo Red. That finisher "All Star Pegasus Impact!" looks neat too, because it's a team attack, and not a one man show. Once again, breaking the habit of the power up formula. - But what else can Pegasus Kyu Globe do? Giving a temporary virtual armor and wings for Kyuren-Oh, enabling it to perform "Kyuren-Oh! Pegasus Break! Super Galaxy!". Yeah, in case you haven't realized it until now, Mr. Pega is clearly a nod, or at least inspired by Pegasus Seiya of the "Saint Seiya" series. I think the shape and color-tone of Pega's armor would easily remind any Saint Seiya fans towards the iconic Pegasus Bronze Cloth. It's even more interesting, when we recall Seiya's deep friendship with Shiryuu who dons the... Dragon Bronze Cloth. Remember, Commander Xiao is undeniably a Dragon! No wonder he has had history with Pega... - Anyway, Xiao pulls off a rather irritating surprise after the battle. Claiming that Mr. Pega has sacrificed his life in the battle. For a minute there, I actually gasped! Thankfully, that's totally NOT the case, because Pega's just feeling tired and wants to get some sleep. LOL. I can't help but wonder if we'll get to see more Kyu Globe acting like him, though? That would make a fine plot for the future. Not just Xiao, Lucky also has something on his sleeve to surprise the others. What's that? Showing his selflessness, by refusing to be a de facto leader. Why? Because "every one of us is a star". Well said, boy! No wonder I just can't dislike this guy, even if I wanted to. Let's just hope the writers feel the same way too, and will not turn Kyuranger into another 'Red Member Show' like past seasons. For now at least, Lucky and Hammy are sharing the ending dance's spotlight...

Overall: It might sound weird, but this episode is totally my favorite so far! It was nothing but pure delightful fun, and I had genuine grins and laughters throughout the episode. Whoever wrote this, did a truly commendable work. A power up episode that really didn't feel like one, and one that put teamwork at the center instead. Key component to this episode was none other than conflict, because friction helped built trust and teamwork. Yes, some members like Balance, Champ, and Spada took a back seat, but the rest managed to shine in their own unique way. With various kind of engaging personalities clashing, the Kyuranger definitely feels like a winning team! Here's hoping we get to see more conflicts and frictions in the future. Because inline with what Lucky said, every one of them deserve to be the star... Next week: A Balance-d Birthday! One that might require a doctor... a Game Doctor!

Episode 06 Score: 8,5 out of 10

Visit THIS LINK to view a continuously updated listing of the Kyutama / Kyu Globes. Last Updated: March 21st, 2017 - Version 08. (WARNING: It might contain spoilers for future episodes)

All images are screencaptured from the series, provided by the FanSubber Over-Time. "Uchu Sentai Kyuranger" is produced by TOEI, and airs every Sunday on TV-Asahi. Credits and copyrights belong to their respective owners.

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