#paella dish pan

[paellaworld]

Premium Paella Rice for Traditional Spanish Cooking

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[paellaworlduk12]

Large Paella Pans: Ideal for Events and Gatherings | Buy now

If you are looking for a large paella pan, you may want to reference our website. We offer a variety of paella pans in different sizes, including large ones that are perfect for cooking for a crowd. The pans are made of high-quality materials and are designed to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your paella cooks to perfection. In addition to pans, the website also offers a range of paella ingredients and accessories to help you create the perfect dish. Whether you are a seasoned paella chef or just starting out, is a great resource for all your paella needs. If you are looking for a large paella pan, you may want to reference our website. We offer a variety of paella pans in different sizes, including large ones that are perfect for cooking for a crowd. The pans are made of high-quality materials and are designed to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your paella cooks to perfection. In addition to pans, the website also offers a range of paella ingredients and accessories to help you create the perfect dish. Whether you are a seasoned paella chef or just starting out, is a great resource for all your paella needs.

[brewed-pangolin]

Captain Master Chef

OG Captain MacTavish x Fem Reader

18+ MDNI Sexual Themes

Captain Soap MacTavish is, contrary to popular belief, an absolutely amazing cook.

His mastery at the savory side of the culinary world is unlike anything you've ever experienced. For example, his take on Beef Wellington is bar none better than your mothers (you'll never tell her) and you'd be lying if you didn't fall head over heels in love with him the moment you took the first bite of his Haggis.

Even as he expands his cooking repertoire into more unfamiliar horizons, you're never left unsatisfied or turning up your nose to anything he manages to put on a plate.

--

"Oh my God, honey. This is delicious."

You praise with a quiet moan. Taste buds blissfully overwhelmed with the succulent flavor of rice, muscles, and saffron as the remaining accents of his newly mastered Paella dance their melody along the length of your tongue.

"Hm. Thank you, love. Quite proud of me self if I'm bein' honest."

You take another bite, eyes rolling back as the taste of the perfectly crusted and savory socarrat hits your tongue like an aromatic tsunami.

Your eyes linger on him, casting him a doey eyed stare that the Captain returns with his own distinctively confident gaze. Silence falling over you both as you take your time enjoying each other's company and savoring the masterful delicacy he so elegantly created.

Reluctantly, your eyes begin to shift. Turning towards the kitchen as you take in the absolute disaster that sits atop your granite counter tops and stove.

A quiet sigh escapes your lips, returning your gaze back to your Captain lover as he wipes his mouth with a flavor filled napkin.

"John, I love you. But goddamn, do you need to learn how to clean while you cook."

"What? It's not that bad, love."

"Not that bad? My kitchen's a disaster, John!"

Soap takes a long glance at the kitchen, surveying the damage before shifting his eyes up to the ceiling.

"Least there's no'a lobster on th'ceiling."

"Nothing will ever beat the lobster, John. That was truly a legendary experience."

"Yer mother didnae think so."

"Yeah. Because you threw the lobster at her!"

"The fuckin' thing pinched me!"

You exhaled an amused sigh, shaking your head with a smile that only he could pull to your lips.

"Thank God she had the pan in her hand, or I feel you'd have been excommunicated from any further family gatherings."

"Aye. Yer mother's got quite the swing, love. Better for me to stay on her good side, yeah?"

"I'd highly recommend so, John."

You gently scrape the last morsel into your mouth with an enamored and muffle moan. Wiping the corners of your lips as you take in one last look at the monstrosity that waits before you.

"Alright, honey. This mess isn't going to clean itself."

"No, it ain't, love. But I was cravin' a bit'a dessert before tacklin' that."

Your eyes narrow, brows knitting together while you shift your gaze over the counter tops for a sign of this hidden last course.

"What dessert? I don't see anything."

"M'lookin at it, sweetheart."

You pause. Rolling your eyes under heavy lids, you're met with the icy blue confidence within his stare that never seems to not have an amorous effect on you. Shifting in your seat to quell the ache already beginning to throb deep within your core.

"John MacTavish. You sneaky little bastard."

"Aye. I am. Now bring that sweet ass over here, lass. Yer Captain wants ta taste ya."

Your body then moved on its own accord. Easily snared into his hungry gaze and rolling timbre like a moth to a flame. The languid come hither of his fingers making your legs weak and breath quicken as you slowly sauntered over to your illustrious Captain.

The kitchen remained untouched the remainder of the night. Left in a culinary mess and disarray as Soap MacTavish feasted on your sweet nectar and filled the need to have your silken walls wrapped around his stiffened cock.

The dishes could wait. Your Captain would not. And you'd be daft if you ever denied Soap MacTavish what he wanted when you treated him so graciously to a feast that only you could provide.

Captain MacTavish Masterlist

@deadbranch @sofasoap @d3athtr4psworld @glitterypirateduck @homicidal-slvt @astraluminaaa @shotmrmiller @obligatoryghoststare @mykneeshurt @jynxmirage @writeforfandoms @simpingoverquestionablemen @thetrashpossum @haurasha @luismickydees @kkaaaagt

[futfemfantasies]

Secret Lover \\ alexia putellas x reader

✨ Just a little something for Barca winning Champions League ✨

It’s not like Alexia wants to hide you, you just travel and stay in different countries for months at a time for your photography job. You spend two months out of the year at home, with the exception of Alexia and your birthdays and Christmas. You land back in Barcelona after 2 months in the USA and you are planning to surprise Alexia. You pull out your phone and call your best friend Mapi to pick you up. Mapi mentions she’s outside so you grab your suitcase and start to walk towards the large double doors. You look around outside and can’t see the blonde anywhere. You feel hands cover your eyes and a small giggle you recognise. You turn around to see your best friend of over 20 years. You wrap your arms around Mapi tightly and you look over her shoulder to see Mapi’s new girlfriend that you haven’t met but talked to several times. You move away from Mapi and wonder over to Ingrid, who welcomes you with open arms. After a few minutes of small talk, Mapi mentions training is almost over so you all get in the car and Mapi drives to your shared apartment with Alexia. 

After the 30 minute drive, Mapi parks the car and both of them help take your luggage and cameras up. You unlock the door which earns a few barks from Nala and let out a content sigh. The small, fluffy dog comes running to you and jumping on your lower legs. You put your backpack down before picking Nala up and giving her a pat. Mapi and Ingrid announce they have to go back for some make up training since they missed the group session. You thank the pair for picking and dropping you off before putting your cameras away and washing your clothes. You have a quick shower and change into comfy shorts and one of Alexia’s oversized tees. 

You go back to the kitchen and open the fridge to see some familiar ingredients. You pull them out, along with your phone and found the photo of Alexia’s mum Eli’s famous paella recipe. You start by cutting up the ingredients before throwing some in the pan. You hear the front door open and your heart beat starts to increase and thump against your chest. You hear Alexia’s bag drop and you look towards her with a gentle smile on your face. She just stands there in disbelief that you’re actually here. Coming out of her senses, Alexia ran over to you and jumps in your awaiting arms. Thankfully your reflexes kick in and you hook your arms under Alexia’s thighs. She leans back and cups your cheeks before resting her forehead against yours. 

“You’re back early” She whispers, millimetres from your lips.

“I’m back and not leaving you again”

You both share the first kiss in months and you don’t want it to end. The burning pan encourages you to put your girlfriend down and to keep cooking. As you find another pan, Alexia peeks at your phone and notices her mothers handwriting. She smiles slightly as you re-chop the onion and shuffles over to you. Alexia wraps her arms around you and due to you being a few inches shorter, her head rests comfortably on your shoulder. You stop cutting and lean back into her and Alexia places soft kisses on your shoulder and neck.

“I missed you mi amor”

“I missed you more Ale. How was training?”

Alexia tells you about her training back with the team as you dish out the comfort food. You both sit at the table and you decide to tell Alexia your news.

“So I have some news mi amor” Alexia places her fork down and puts her hands on yours, silently telling you to continue. 

“I quit my job but I’m starting my new one on Monday. I’m not travelling anymore Ale, I’m staying right here”

Alexia bounced off her chair and hugged you tightly. You pull her down on your lap before peppering her face with soft kisses. She moves away and holds you face in her hands. 

“It’s at Barca” You whisper and Alexia’s eyes go wide. She just realised you’ll be around 24/7 and she could not be happier.

Alexia expressed how you should meet the girls on Monday before training and you agreed. Alexia moved back to her seat and you both finished your lunch before cuddling on the couch, stealing kisses from one another for the rest of the day. 

A few days later, Alexia texted the team to go to training a little earlier as she has an announcement. You move over to the closet to get ready when you let your intrusive thoughts get the best of you. What if I’m not going to make an impression on them? What if they think Alexia is too good for me? You get pulled out of your thoughts by hands on your hips and you look behind you to see Alexia, slightly worried. You explain your fears to her and she tells you that everything will be okay, and that’s all the reassurance you need. 

A little while later, Alexia pulls up to the training ground and you grow more nervous than before. She puts the car in park and turns to you. Alexia puts a hand on your cheek and you turn to her with worried eyes. You both don’t say anything but Alexia embraces you in one of her tight hugs you’ve grown to calm down to. You pull back and give Alexia a nod to signal you are ready to go. You get out of the car and grab your camera bags when Mapi and Ingrid call out to you both. You explain that you’re the new team photographer and social media manager and they both congratulate you. You hold onto Alexia’s hand as you walk in and she squeezes your hand in comfort. 

“Hola Ale, who’s this?” Pina asks. Alexia looks at you and you nod slightly.

“This is my girlfriend, Y/N”

“And your new team photographer so be nice” You joke and most of the girls laugh. 

The girls get called to the locker room and there’s no doubt Alexia will tell them in there. Before you go your seperate ways, Alexia gives you a good luck kiss. Meanwhile, you go into the building where you are met with your new boss who shows you around before telling you of the teams plans for the day. After signing a few more things, you take your cameras and laptop to the field to set up for training. You start and you slowly get used to things. The girls had a break after 45 minutes of intense drills so Alexia and a few others decided to seat with you at the meal area. The girls ask to see some photos from today so far and you turn your laptop around to show them and the gasps that escape their mouths. After a few more conversations, the team takes you in and Alexia is relieved that it’s all going well.

“So Ale, how long have you been hiding this one?” Lucy asked.

“A year” Alexia mumbled.

“What was that Ale?” Mapi teases, knowing the answer.

Jonatan calls the girls back out to training and you finish up editing the photo of Alexia when you feel a presence next to you. You look to your left and see the one and only Jennifer Hermoso. Alexia warned you about her and their history. 

“Hola hermosa, I don’t think we’ve met. I’m Jenni” Jenni holds her hand out for you to shake.

“Y/N, nice to meet you too” You say before returning to the lens. 

You and Jenni have a light conversation before your oh so lovely girlfriend yells for Jenni to come over and start training, since she arrived late due to media. You look up from your camera and lock eyes with Alexia. You give her a wink and she shakes her head before turning away smiling to herself. You take some more photos of everyone before filming some stories for Instagram. 

You pack your cameras and laptop away before you start to walk back to your office. You feel a presence next to you and yet again, Jenni looks at you with that same mischievous smile as before. She offers to take a camera bag for you and you accept the help. You walk into the building to your new office and Jenni gently puts the cameras down. You thank her for the help and she seems to be nervous about something. She eventually asks you out and before you could answer, you saviour shows up at the door. 

“You ready to go princesa? We need to pick some things for dinner” You nod and look at Jenni with sorry eyes. 

“Sorry Jenni, but I’m taken” You says as you walk near Alexia who wraps her arms around your waist. Jenni’s eyes pop out of her head and cheeks slightly flushed. 

“Dios mio Ale, I’m so sorry. I had no idea” Jenni apologised and Alexia accepts her apology. You three walk out and Alexia hold your hand tight. Alexia mentions that she has to get her bag and offered to show you the locker room. After catching up with Alexia’s teammates, you two head home where you can’t be bothered to cook so you order takeout. While you wait, you decide to have a shower in which Alexia decided to join. Not long after, the food arrived and you both cuddle up on the couch. 

“How was your first day?”

“I had a really good day. How was training mi amor?” You ask as you tighten your arms around Alexia.

“It was tough. My knee hurt a little but it’s good. I see you were making friends with Jenni” Alexia says as she turns to lie on top of you. 

“I think I saw a little bit of jealous Ale out there today” You mention as your hands creep up the back Alexia’s shirt. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about” Alexia dismisses your claim as she rests her head on your chest. 

“Oh really?” You pull up a photo you took and showed Alexia.

“So this isn’t you jealous?” Alexia’s eyebrows furrowed and eyes rolled.

“Okay, shut up” Alexia mumbles before leaving a lazy kiss on your chest.

“It’s okay mi amor, I like jealous Ale. It’s hot”

Safe to say, from that day forward everyone knew you are Alexia’s and she is yours. 

[ghostsslutss]

🌊 } at peace. for once. 18+

"Isn't this incredible, love? Just like racing, it's all about balance. Cheers to our endless adventures." - fernando alonso

1/2

f! user x fernando alonso impiled smut

The sillage of the briny air revitalises my senses. It was a golden day, the sun was shining peacefully and Fernando was finally free stewards and Mike Krack. However, Fernando had to do a photoshoot for some random brand at a seaside resort on Spain's Costa Tropical. Then, we can finally relax, without any worries.

For once. There were five people managing Fernando while I sat on the second floor of the yacht. I was reading a book, while I heard multiple shutter clicks. Photographer telling Alonso how to pose in the beacon of light. Fernando was wearing a white Ralph Lauren shirt, white shorts and a black belt with plain shoes to match it.

“Okay Fernando, we have finished everything. We’ll get back to you soon. Okay?”

One of the members of the photoshoot team told him as they slowly walked off the yacht. Taking a final glance at him and waving goodbye.

"¡Perfecto! Gracias a todos por su trabajo. Can't wait to see the photos. Vamos a terminar y prepararnos para el próximo desafío."

He flashed his pearly whites and waved goodbye to the rest. Quickly he rushed to you, tackling you from behind. Hugging you softly. You felt his stubble rubbing against your silky hair.

“Hello, Princesa.”

He chimed.

“Hiya Fernando.”

You replied.

“Why don’t I make you something, come down to the first floor, Querida.”

He offered, holding his hand to you, taking it he gently lead you downstairs to the lower floor. Watching your every move so you don’t slip. He silently told you to sit down, signalling you by nodding his head. He was like your guarddog, protecting you from everyone and everything. That would do anything, even die for you. His love couldn’t be written by songs, poetry or anything else. Except for cooking.

He kissed you on your forehead, slowly drifting away to the kitchen while you stared at the beautiful ocean. The sun highlighted all of your beautiful curves. In a cosy kitchen, he stands over a wide pan, sizzling with olive oil. They toss in onions, garlic, and colourful bell peppers, filling the air with a savoury fragrance. Saffron threads follow, turning the oil a sunny gold.

With practised hands, Alonso adds chicken and a medley of seafood—shrimp, mussels, and squid—each piece searing to perfection. A sprinkle of rice spreads out, soaking up the flavours. Fragrant broth joins in, bubbling gently as it melds with the ingredients.

A few stirs and adjustments later, fresh peas and tomatoes add bursts of color. The kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of the simmering paella. Finally, Fernando plates up the vibrant dish, a masterpiece of flavours and love, ready to share with their wife.

“Here you go, my love.”

I’d smile at him, pleased with my meal. Every bite felt like a new heaven, and tasted so good. I felt like Remmy from ratatouille.

Hours pass by, we would take in the sea and moonlight. Talking about the Media and other silly things. But there was a tension, a barrier that needed to be broken. Something to be snapped. Fernando ran through my hair, sitting next to me. I knew he needed something, his fingers trailed against my thin clothing to my thighs. Slowly rubbing it in circles.

“Cariño..Please.. Can I.?”

He’d squeeze your thigh for extra attention. He needed you, so fucking badly. The submissiveness finally gleamed in his eyes. He wanted you.

“Go on, I know you want it.”

[everynicorobin]

Robin is best at making paella! Paella is a dish of rice, meats, and herbs cooked together in a shallow pan. 

[sirenjose]

Jose Backstory Analysis (Version 3)

(Based on his backstory, deductions, letters, and other material)

Spanish Origins

We know from Paella, Jose’s food dish which references “Spanish sailors”, combined with implications from Jose’s 1st deduction that he was likely born in Spain.

Paella is a Spanish rice dish made using a variety of ingredients (all families have a different way they prepare it). The word itself comes from a Valencian word that refers to the pan the dish is cooked in. It was originally made with rice combined with whatever else was available locally, and is traditionally served family style, with the pan in the center of the table which people would eat straight from using only a spoon.

Paella Valenciana is said to be made with chicken, rabbit, and varieties of Spanish green beans (as well as saffron, paprika, and potentially several other spices).

Paella de Marisco (Seafood Paella) is made with seafood (rather than meat like chicken).

Paella Mixta (Mixed Paella) uses both meat like chicken and seafood.

The paella in-game appears to be Seafood Paella.

The story of Identity V takes place at the end the 19th century. As Jose is stated to be 25 years old, that means he was likely born around the 1870s, a time when Spain was going through both political and economic turmoil.

Politically, it was going through a revolution that overthrew the current Queen, a failed attempt at a republic, and a coup before the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy.

As for economic problems, this was a period of economic recession and high unemployment. The country had been dealing with several conflicts, including the Carlist Wars and Ten Years' War in Cuba, leaving the country in deep debt. Falling into recession, the government attempted to modernize the economy, but political instability, social unrest, and resistance made it difficult.

The Third Carlist War was from 1872-1876. The Spanish Navy (which Jose's father at least may have been a part of) would've been tasked with controlling the seas and protecting Spanish interests, but they faced a lack of resources and equipment, in part due to the government's financial issues, potential budget cuts, and the above conflicts.

Joining the British Navy

From deduction 1’s mention of “new identities, new flags, new routes” combined with Jose’s backstory and the reasons above, they likely came to Britain to get away from the turmoil and conflict in the hopes of finding better opportunities (especially in terms of a job and pay) and a better life.

As Jose’s backstory implies people saw them as “foreigners”, it is doubtful they’d been in Britain long enough to become naturalized citizens before they joined the Navy.

To become a naturalized citizen, this would require them to live in Britain for 5 years and fulfill a few other requirements (good character reference, knowledge of the English language, apply for eligibility, etc...).

In 1870, they wouldn't have been able to become citizens by marrying a British citizen as the British Naturalization Act of 1870 made it so a British woman who married a foreign man would lose their British nationality.

At the very least, a different section of that law did state that children under the age of 21 of a naturalized father (or widowed mother) were deemed to be naturalized if they were resident in the UK with the father (or widowed mother).

This is important to note that the Royal Navy didn’t accept foreigners.

According to “The Queens Regulations and the Admiralty Instructions of 1861” it states that “Foreigners are not to be entered for Her Majesty's Service in any capacity, except as Bandsmen, unless with the sanction of the Admiralty, if on the home station, or of the Commander-in-chief, if abroad; but under no circumstances are foreigners to be entered for continuous service.”

On the other hand, the British Merchant Navy did, and in fact recruited a considerable number of them.

The Navigation Laws by that time, which previously restricted foreigners from serving in the British Merchant Navy, were relaxed.

The Merchant Shipping Act similarly had few requirements or restrictions on who could serve besides having some general standards for all seamen. It didn’t even really make a distinction between British or foreign seamen.

Many foreigners were attracted to the British Merchant Navy due to the employment opportunities, chance to travel to new places, and the potential for higher wages than they could earn in their home countries.

The issue with both the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy though were the minimum age restrictions.

For apprentices in the Merchant Navy, the minimum age seems to have been around 12.

For the Royal Navy, the minimum age back then (according to the Queen’s Regulations and Admiralty Instructions of 1861) was 14. Additionally:

The minimum height for boys aged 14 or 15 was 4 feet 8 inches.

They also needed to have a "robust frame, perfectly sound and healthy constitution, free from any physical malformation, and intelligent, a preference being given to those who can read and write".

The boys also had to bring some satisfactory proof of their age (ex: declaration of birth or certificate) as well as the consent in writing of their parents to enter the Navy.

They would then undergo a medical examination.

After the exam, they would be engaged to serve in the Navy "continuously for 10 years from the age of 18, in addition to whatever period may be necessary until they attain that age."

Part of the reason for the minimum age restrictions may have been due to compulsory schooling being a thing that was introduced around 1880 up to the age of 11.

With Jose 10 years old or potentially younger, he would’ve been below that minimum age requirement. Despite this, a number of children did join the Navy even though they were too young. They did this either by lying, falsifying documentation (such as birth documents), via their parents influencing recruiting officials (as in to look the other way for example), or so on.

Some boys wanted to be sailors after hearing tales from others, being encouraged by friends, out of necessity if their families fell on hard times and to escape poverty, or if they were orphans they’d do it just so they could acquire some kind of food and shelter.

Considering the sort of economic and political turmoil going on in Spain at this time, it wouldn't be too hard to believe Jose did this out of necessity, potentially to help his father. Since Jose’s social status is stated to be Nouveau riche, meaning they likely got their wealth after the incident in deduction 3 and 4 when they were rewarded by the Queen herself, that implies they could’ve been much worse off when they were still in Spain as well as when they 1st came to Britain.

Since Jose states he sees themselves as “brave knights of the sea”, it is also likely he was inspired to want to join by tales from other sailors too.

Since the 2nd half of deduction 1 is “everything is going well, or better than expected” (or “it’s all going off without a hitch. Or at least, with less hitches than we thought there’d be” based on the translated version), which is phrased as if they expected issues or for things to go badly, when combined with the phrasing of them getting “new identities”, it’s highly possible the reason they might have issues is because they were using fake identities.

Fake identities (aka aliases or assumed names) were something people did in fact sometimes create/use, even when signing up for the Navy back then.

It’s possible we can look at Wu Chang’s 4th letter as evidence of this, considering “Chang XXXX” has seemingly changed his name “many times”, and he is implied to also be a sailor based on the description. There's also how Chang Chip is the name of 1 of the 6 Chinese survivors of the sinking of the Titanic (which ties to that “huge boat” they were mentioned to have boarded together). After the event, they were sent to the UK to support the sailor shortage during World War 1, so there’s a good chance Chang was as well.

This fake identity could’ve included a fake age for Jose. It’s also possible their “fake identities” could imply they were using other fake information, such as fake names (maybe “Baden” wasn’t their real last name, maybe “Jose” isn’t either) or fake countries of origin (as in, they pretended to come from someplace else, like Germany, instead of Spain, which could fit considering “Baden”, at least to my knowledge, isn’t a Spanish name and might actually be a German surname).

The need for fake identities may also imply Jose’s father at least (as he is older and has done more things than Jose, potentially bad things) had something he wanted to hide, or something about his past he didn’t want others to know about when he came to Britain. I’m doubtful he could’ve already been a pirate or privateer, as neither really existed by the late 19th century, but it’s hard to say for certain.

Going back to Jose’s deduction 1 where it says things are going “better than expected”, I do wonder if this could’ve potentially been written by Jose’s father rather than Jose himself (considering both their ages and the authority Jose’s father had).

Jose’s deduction 3 and his backstory imply Jose’s father already had some kind of authority and may have already been a captain despite them still being foreigners, as it says it was his father’s decision to change course. This is a decision that’s normally made by the captain.

If Jose’s father was a captain, with his influence, it likely would’ve been a bit easier for Jose to get into the Navy if he were below the minimum age requirement (especially as it wasn’t monitored as closely as it is today).

Captains tended to not like hiring younger boys, which they saw as a "burden on their profits" (expensive to train, cost money to be fed, etc...) and for the 1st year or so gave little in the way of labor back to the owner. Most captains wanted men who had some training, not weak young boys with potentially little or no education.

Examples of potential jobs/roles for young boys:

Cabin boys (cleaning cabins, running errands for officers, assisting with maintenance)

Powder monkeys (carrying gunpowder to cannons)

Runners (carry messages)

Ship’s cook

Had almost no qualifications to be one back then.

Entry-level profession for young men or boys with no particular experience with cooking or sailing.

Commonly given to foreigners.

Back in the 19th century, it wasn’t seen as “men’s work” and so some tended to give to those without the rights skills or to those they saw as inferior.

There are examples of foreigners who started as cooks and became Captains later.

The life of a sailor wasn’t an easy one, especially for the young. Reasons like those listed below were why this life was viewed as “masculine” and “heroic”:

Lack of sleep was common (especially with the Naval Watch System, meaning 4-6 hours of sleep was more common than a full 8)

The food tended to be of bad quality (and monotonous)

Long hours of back-breaking work

Required great discipline

Regular presence of physical danger

Side note regarding the Naval Watch System:

In the navy, ships always have a patrol to check everything and everyone on board to ensure all issues are identified and resolved swiftly. The entire crew, depending on the size, is divided into 2 or 3 "watches" (traditional royal navy used a 2-watch system) and assigned 1 of 2 watch groups: port and starboard. These were then split into different divisions and assigned a different area of the ship.

With the 2-watch system, sailors would work for 1 four-hour watch, then rest for 4 hours before working the next watch. So, sleeping patterns would be very different to those on land. The 3-watch system was more popular as it gave a much longer rest period between shifts.

Each watch fulfilled its tasks in its 4 hours. The 24 hours in a day (a naval day started at noon) was divided into 5 four-hour watches and 2 two-hour watches.

Afternoon Watch: noon to 16:00 (4pm)

First Dog Watch (2 hours): 16:00 to 18:00 (6pm)

Last Dog Watch (2 hours): 18:00 to 20:00 (8pm)

First Watch: 20:00 to midnight

Middle Watch: midnight to 04:00 (4am)

Morning Watch: 04:00 to 08:00 (8am)

Forenoon Watch: 08:00 to noon

One bell (for those without the benefit of a pocket watch) signified a half-hour, so eight bells denoted the half-hours in a four-hour watch and the Last (second) Dog Watch.

The reason for the dog watches was to swap the crew over so the same people weren't always on duty at the same time (it helped reduce the monotony while on board ship, so it's a little less of the same thing over and over). It also allowed the entire crew to enjoy the evening meal.

1 theory for why it was called a "dog" watch had to do with the slang "dog sleep", which basically referred to a light nap.

“The Nightmarish Waters” Incident

Jose and his father weren’t anything special initially, but by deduction 3, they were assigned a mission Jose’s father saw as important, one that “could not be delayed”. So, when they encountered a storm, rather than be cautious, he took a risk in his desire to complete the mission, due to his desire to rise in the ranks and achieve fame and fortune. As such, he changed course, causing them to sail through an area that was marked on their charts as “dangerous and not recommended for sailing”.

Based on deduction 4 mentioning they protected the Queen’s “wealth”, it’s possible their mission involved transporting goods of some sort. Potentially important or valuable goods based on Jose’s father’s opinion that this mission “could not be delayed”.

Unfortunately, Jose’s father’s risk did not pay off and the situation took a turn for the worse, as the area he chose to sail through proved just as dangerous as it had been warned to be.

Jose in his deduction 7 says there was “no storm” but there were “nightmarish waters”. Jose has no reason to lie about this in his own personal diary, not to mention everyone else on board could see the weather as well as he could. So, if it wasn’t a storm, other options that “nightmarish waters” could refer to include: rouge waves, strong currents, underwater hazards (ex: rocks, shoals, underwater canyons), obstacles, unpredictable weather patterns (ex: sudden squalls or micro bursts), etc...

There's no way to know without more detail, but I will say Lakeside's backstory references a sudden hurricane (to compare to deduction 3 titled "Windstorm"), and in Fiona's 4th letter, she talks about the lake water being odd (rising when normally it was always still).

Fiona's 1st letter uses the term lagoon, which is a shallow body of water that is separated from a larger body of water, like the ocean, by a barrier, such as a coral reef or sandbar.

Coral reefs and sandbars are hazards that can cause shipwrecks.

From deduction 4 and 7, we know the “nightmarish water” they encountered caused most of the crew to perish, though Jose and his father survived. This likely means the ship was damaged or sank, which could explain why it took 2 months before they could sail back home to complete the mission. If the ship took damage, it’s possible at least some of their cargo was also damaged or lost.

The fact it took 2 months to return is likely true considering everyone awaiting their return or for their cargo would be aware of how long they were missing.

So, much of the crew died, the ship was at least somewhat damaged if not totally, and they lost at least some or all their cargo, but they were able to sail home after 2 months. But before then, they likely washed up on shore somewhere and were stuck there until they could perform the necessary maintenance to their ship, or if they shipwrecked, until they could acquire appropriate means to allow them to sail back home.

Everyone’s feeling pretty depressed after everything they’ve lost, while Jose’s father is especially upset over the possibility he will fail this mission and thus ruin any future opportunities with the British Navy or with achieving fame and fortune. This is what leads to another detail from Jose’s deduction 7: that the “nightmarish waters” had “swept away” both the crew and their “consciences”.

Lacking a “conscience” means that the person is willing to do anything they want and not worry about the consequences. They’d be willing to hurt others and then show no remorse afterwards. They don’t care how their actions affect others.

At the same time, it confirms the way Jose’s father was leaning due to his desperation to ensure this mission would succeed at any cost, as it says “it also awakened the demons flowing through the Badens' blood”. The crew acting without a conscience and Jose’s father willingness to do anything to ensure success to the point its described as awakening “demons” heavily implies they became so desperate that they did something bad to ensure they could complete the mission and return home.

Theory: The Badens Involvement in the DeRoss Tragedy

My theory is they landed or wrecked near Lakeside Village and Oletus Manor, like the shipwrecked sailors shown during Season 18 Essence 3 and Season 19 Essence 1.

Then, once their ship had been sufficiently repaired or they had found a replacement, to help recoup the loss of their cargo, they participated in or led the attack on Oletus Manor, the same attack that caused the death of Alice’s parents and her separation from Orpheus.

Returning with Trauma

After carrying out their attack, they sail home and show their (stolen) spoils to the Queen. Jose’s father lies about what actually happened, saying they suffered in a bad storm and struggled against pirates but managed to guard the Queen’s “wealth”. This fake story is reported in the newspapers and the Queen rewards him handsomely for his actions, granting them “titles” (like Viscount to Jose) and their own wealth (how they became nouveau riche).

Additionally, according to 1 backstory, it states that, along with receiving the “Queen’s commendation”, they also received “the honor of leading the Royal Navy”, meaning they may have been transferred from the Merchant Navy to the Royal Navy by this point.

Jose’s father is happy to finally achieve his dreams of fame and fortune. The same can not be said for Jose, who is horrified at his father’s actions since the incident when he attacked and stole from innocents that helped them after their experience with the “nightmarish waters” as well as lying about what happened. Jose’s father likely refused to let Jose reveal the truth to anyone, which is likely why he wrote about it (to himself) in his personal diary.

There’s also a good chance he did this in part to try to help deal with his own trauma.

Jose, as I said, was potentially around 10 years old during this incident. This is based on Alice, who is 21 in the present, was reportedly 6 years old at the time of the tragedy. Meaning Jose, who is 25 in the present, would’ve been 10.

Besides basing it off Alice’s age, Jose being young to some degree (even if he’s not exactly 10) would also explain Jose’s trauma, and how he had such bad “panic attacks” and “night terrors” that nothing could cure. To the point the only way he was able to sleep was by drinking to try to help him forget.

Night terrors tend to affect children under the age of 13 more often than others, which Jose would be if he were 10 during deduction 3 & 4.

Panic attacks are more common in older teenagers and young adults, but it can happen due to being affected by a traumatic event. Younger children, like a 10-year-old, can be more easily traumatized as they're still in their developmental period, making them more vulnerable to stress or trauma. Though not all children develop psychological problems, as it depends on the severity and duration of the trauma, as well as their age, support systems, and temperament. They also have more difficulty processing or coping with such events and are more likely to experience physical symptoms in response to trauma.

Jose’s trauma was caused by:

His involvement in an incident that wrecked or damaged their ship enough to put it out of commission for 2 months with a high loss of life.

His involvement in an event where innocents, who likely helped the survivors of the nightmarish water and shipwreck, were attacked, their home looted, and some number killed, including the owners of the manor.

Both events he was involved in were caused by his own father, who lied about what actually happened.

A lack of support (we have no knowledge of his mother, friends, or other support systems, and his father doesn’t truly love him and only sees him as an object that he wants to ensure does his job) or coping systems.

As additional proof, we know both Alice and Orpheus are confirmed to have been deeply affected by the events of the tragedy.

Alice was called the "mad girl of doom" after the tragedy in the news articles from the official artbook, and her official backstory states she suffered "hysteria", while her trailer shows some of what happened in the asylum.

Orpheus during 1 of his trailers said he tried to "escape from reality", as well as suffered shock and delusion. It is also highly likely it is because of this event he develops his Nightmare personality as well as becomes the manor owner and eventually begins the manor games.

Jose’s Blessing

From here, the Baden family’s fame and fortune continue to grow, just like Jose’s father wanted. Unfortunately, Jose’s issues only continue to worsen over time, but Jose’s father doesn’t care and forces his son to continue helping him (the Captain) in his (Jose’s) role as First Officer. The major reason Jose’s father needs Jose is because of his son being “blessed by the god of the sea”, which caused “the winds [to] be silenced” and make the “ocean calm”. Considering the “nightmarish waters” that killed a majority of the crew, Jose likely had to have gotten this blessing right after that incident before they sailed home, or sometime after they finally completed that mission.

There is no information regarding where or how he got it, so the best we can do is guess.

Regarding the watch itself, the symbol on it is a Fouled Anchor:

Foul: a nautical term meaning to entangle or entwine, and more generally that something is wrong or difficult

Fouled anchor: refers to when the anchor has become hooked on some obstruction or has its cable wound around it

It is a condition at sea that is to be avoided, as it may cause the vessel at anchor to "drag" its anchor, thus endangering the vessel. To correct the situation was dangerous and time-consuming, and could usually only be accomplished by the most experienced sailors on the vessel

The fouled anchor has been the official seal of the British Admiralty/Lord High Admiral since 1588 (personal seal of Lord Howard of Effingham, who helped defeat the Spanish Armada).

It is also the emblem of the Chief Petty Officer (US Senior Noncommissioned Officer Rank)

Due to the fact the symbol and watch itself aren’t anything unusual (the watch itself was likely for the watch system aboard the ship, which I explained earlier), I don’t think he received the watch itself, more likely he already had the watch but it was blessed by someone or something else.

One possibility is he got it from Lakeside Village after they shipwrecked or when they landed when their ship was damaged from the nightmarish water. Fiona in her 4th letter does discuss the bottom of the lake and something strange about it, and we already know the villagers at Lakeside worshiped the lake deity aka Hastur, who has a Poseidon skin. Maybe if Jose fell in the lake after their wreck, that could’ve been when he got the blessing? Maybe from Hastur? Or maybe from Grace, or whoever that voice that spoke to her was in her last deduction.

Another idea is he got it some other way while at the village or Oletus Manor, since Dennis and his family did like Greek myths, but who knows.

Getting it while at Lakeside Village or Oletus Manor sometime during, after, or because of their trouble with the nightmarish water feels like it’d make the most sense.

I don’t think he got it as a reward or for any other reason from the Queen. If she did have it, why not give it to someone else sooner, or why not take it back when Jose’s father disappeared, since if she stripped the Badens of everything in her belief his father stole her treasure, she should’ve taken the watch with the blessing too if it did come from her.

I also think he would have to have gotten it fairly soon after the incident and their return, as Jose’s backstory implies a major part of their fame and success came because of that blessing.

(Even though Jose’s 4th letter mentions “The swaying pocket watch is finally back where it started” when he sees the umbrella, I’m not sure the blessing could’ve come from Wu Chang, as it was only recently they had it aboard the ship before his father disappeared, and the blessing is phrased like it’s been around awhile. It’s also possible that there is no blessing and it just has to do with the hypnosis he performs on himself or the “deep hypnosis” done to him, but we don’t know right now. I’m not yet ready to say for certain it’s not real, as Jose’s father is pretty intent on his son doing his job that it seems suspicious. Anyways.)

Drugs and Forgetting

Either way, for now, due to the lack of any information on this subject, it’s impossible to say for certain how exactly he got it. All that matters for now is Jose’s father needs it to continue to ensure his fame and fortune, which is threatened by Jose potentially being unable to sail due to his worsening panic attacks/night terrors.

Jose’s father needs to find a fix for this problem, but not because he cares. He still only sees Jose as an object, and just wants him to continue to do his job to ensure his own success and wealth.

Jose’s deduction 8 references “drugs” and “to forget is the best cure”. This implies Jose’s father may have at least thought about trying if not actually attempted to use drugs on Jose. Though we know from his deduction 6 that doctors “tried a variety of drugs with no obvious effect”. This implies Jose’s father had to have either been trying something abnormal, not one of the usual drugs.

If not drugs, it may at least imply he sought or attempted to utilize a solution that involved making Jose “forget”. As the trauma causing Jose’s night terrors and panic attacks revolved around the incident in deduction 3 and 4, caused by the nightmarish water which potentially led to Jose’s father participating on the attack on Oletus Manor, Jose’s father may have needed to cure Jose by making him forget that entire incident.

In terms of not the usual types of drugs, we know the manor owner has several, including Dionysus and Hydra which revolve around changing a person’s memory (either to forget or to rebuild it).

Though if Jose’s father did help cause the incident that resulted in the death of Alice’s parents, I’m unsure if the manor owner would want to help. Not to mention it seems like few are actually aware of the drugs he’s created, so I’m unsure if Jose’s father would’ve been able to hear about them himself. Though if he did, it’s possible he might’ve wanted to try to use his drugs on Jose. On the other hand, we do know Jose’s father to some degree was working with Sam Bourbon based on Jose’s 2nd letter, which states he carried cargo which belonged to Sam.

I say Sam as he was the 1 to create Dovlin, which is confirmed by both Demi’s release backstory as well as Demi’s 3rd letter. Dovlin we know was very popular based on her backstory, so much so that when Sam disappeared and Demi had to take care of the bar, business was bad because all the customers wanted was dovlin, and Demi didn’t have or know the recipe. Only Sam did.

From parallels with the summer event with Sea Salt Mocktail as well as Demi’s 3rd letter, we know dovlin uses the same “raw materials” the manor owner uses with his own drugs, except its effects (dovlin presumably) compared to the owner’s own drugs were “completely different (opposites even)”, and that a “strong drug resistance [is] created by any interactions between them”. He even essentially described dovlin as a drug when he said “the final effects of the drugs were completely different”.

The summer event and Demi’s backstory and deductions also tell us dovlin can be addictive if you drink too much of it (but that’s alcohol in general). Kevin’s description of the key ingredient for sea salt mocktail includes how it “greatly enhance[s] the flavor of food”.

From Demi’s 2nd letter, it implies the initial effects of dovlin caused the mice to “all [die] in fear with no exception”. In-game, health is called “fear”, so dying of fear would be like a survivor being downed or eliminated. Also, from in-game we know the description for dovlin states that it “reduce[s]” fear aka it heals damage a survivor has taken. Helping eliminate “fear” could be the sort of thing that might help Jose with his panic attacks/night terrors and inability to sleep, and thus help him to be more fit to sail.

Although, I haven’t seen anything explicit that says dovlin helps you to “forget” (besides the false myth that alcohol can make a person forget), though maybe that’s how it “reduces” fear, by making the drinker forget their problems.

The only other issue I can think of is how Sam didn’t perfect his dovlin recipe until later, meaning I don’t think it could exactly “heal” yet, though it may still make the person “forget”. So, there’s a chance he wasn’t given dovlin yet. Or maybe Sam told him it wasn’t complete yet but had Jose’s father help him, potentially by retrieving the material he needed based on Demi’s 1st letter as well as Jose’s 2nd letter.

The last option is Vilhelm Lamb from Wu Chang’s 4th letter, who may be the “medical professor” that adopted Alice aka “Eury Lamb” to be an “experimental subject” and subject her to “prolonged medication and physical therapy”. As we know Jose’s father, Joaquin, was working with Vilhelm, that means Joaquin knew Vilhelm and could’ve asked him for something to fix Jose. If he is performing experiments, and is even using “medication”, it’s possible he also had “drugs” that could make Jose forget (or in some other way allow Jose to do his job). It’s even possible Joaquin was doing the job he was for Vilhelm as (basically) payment in return for the drugs for Jose.

Route Amendments

It is unknown whether or not he did actually give something or do something to Jose, especially as Jose’s deduction 8 (when translated) mentions the letter Jose’s father wrote to whoever he was asking to help fix Jose is described as being “torn to shreds”. The fact it’s “torn” may imply Jose happened to see the letter his father wrote, though it’s also possible his father or recipient tore it up to keep it secret, but I’m not sure I see Jose’s father being the type to do that (or really care much if Jose or someone else saw it). I could be wrong though.

Considering Jose in his 4th letter mentions “drugs” (that cause hallucinations) it makes me wonder if this could be evidence that his dad did in fact use something on him, but also that Jose found and was aware (at least eventually) of what his dad was doing.

If Jose did see the letter his father wrote, it could relate to why his next deduction (9) mentions Jose having made a “large number of corrections” to “the route”. This sounds like a specific route, a single one rather than many. If we’re talking about a particular route Jose made changes to it in response to learning his father wants him to “forget” (about the incident), the route he amended may be the alternate route Jose’s father took in response to being caught in a storm. The route that led them to the “nightmarish waters”, causing the loss of most of the crew and cargo, as well as damaged or sank their ship.

If Jose thought he might forget, it’s possible he made corrections to the “dangerous” route to better outline why it is dangerous, based on their experience when his father took that route to avoid a storm in an attempt to avoid being delayed. This might’ve been to dissuade anyone using that chart (like his father, though he doesn’t seem the type to let this sort of thing change his mind) from using that route. It’s also possible he made these changes to help remind himself (if he did forget) about that route being dangerous.

Maybe he did this help himself avoid going on a voyage if they did use that route. Maybe that’s why he didn’t board the ship on certain voyages.

Jose as a sailor in the navy isn’t a coward, and he didn’t seem to avoid every voyage, as based on his backstory he did serve well to honor the Baden family name, as well as help his father earn fame and fortune. Yet we know at least close to when his father disappeared as well as the day he did disappear, he was being reprimanded for failing to board several times. I think the reason he fails to board those times, and thus why he drinks, is because of his panic attacks and trauma, as drinking is said to be the only way to allow him to sleep (he doesn’t drink only because he enjoys it).

It’s possible on those days he happened to have a panic attack or nightmare. It’s even possible he might’ve had either even if he was made to forget, as some part of him might’ve still remembered, and that was why he was drinking and failed to board the day his father disappeared (based on implications from Departure Date’s design notes). Or maybe his trauma was triggered if the voyage they were going to take that day involved the “dangerous” route or their destination being Oletus Manor (if Jose’s father made deliveries there to Sam while he was working on dovlin, or even deliveries to the manor in general as both Sam and the manor owner’s drugs used the same raw material, aka the ferns), which are places tied to his trauma.

It's possible that Jose was made to forget, as he doesn’t seem to reference or hint towards the nightmarish water incident later despite being at the manor. Maybe the reason he was potentially partying and drinking fairly care-free the day his father went missing based on Departure Date, who doesn’t seem obviously suffering from trauma, was because his father succeeded in making Jose forget how to be a “good man” as implied by his father in Jose’s deduction 8.

“Deep Hypnosis”

Maybe he forgot because of drugs. Or maybe it was because of the “deep hypnosis” hinted at by the manor owner in Jose’s 3rd letter (which also describes Jose as a “gift” from an “old friend” that passed away, which helps to provide a bit more evidence to the idea Jose and his father knew the manor owner aka Orpheus in some way).

We have no information who did it. Not even the manor owner seems to know. The only thing we do know is whoever did it buried a “spiritual anchor” for him that he could use to avoid a mental breakdown. The only 3 specific options I can think of so far for who did it are:

Jose himself, as his ability in game is hypnosis and we know he performs “self-hypnosis”.

Jose’s father, who’d have access to Jose’s watch to some degree, as Jose’s watch is the thing Jose uses in-game to perform hypnosis.

A bit of a crack theory, but the 3rd idea is Ada, who we know is the 1 person in the story said to “devote herself to hypnotherapy research, using hypnotic suggestions to eliminate the pain, fear, and other negative emotions plaguing her patients”.

Jose, I think, is unlikely as I don’t think you can perform “deep” hypnosis on yourself.

Jose’s father I’m doubtful of as “deep hypnosis” should likely require someone experienced and skilled.

The above reasons are essentially why Ada feels the most likely, even though we have not seen her related to Jose’s backstory at all yet. I do think it’s possible he could’ve been sent to the asylum (and maybe the church’s doctors are the ones who tested various drugs on him in deduction 6).

Back then, people didn’t understand mental health. Those who exhibited PTSD or other mental health problems didn’t receive the help they needed because they didn’t recognize or understand the issues.

By the end of the 18th century and during the 19th century, there was an increase in the number of sailors being admitted to London’s asylums due to mental breakdowns, especially after major battles.

The men suffered from severe anxiety, depression, and trauma. But back then, people only recognized the symptoms, such as partial paralysis, sleep disturbances, dysesthesia, delusions, and so on.

It also took a long time to recognize malnutrition, trauma through violence, and mistreatment.

Doctors noticed sailors in their everyday lives were "restless, had severe insomnia and delusions, and their moods quickly went from happy to sad". These were actually cases of bipolar disturbances, but doctors treated it like a fever, so many sailors ended up hurting or even killing themselves. The doctors just didn't know how to deal with these men.

Depression was dismissed as melancholic mood, which was treated with sea air, sunbathing, and walks.

Schizophrenia was treated liked malaria.

Many hoped for help in the asylums. Around the start of the 19th century, maybe 25% recovered, while another 25% died due to the treatment, and a good number simply disappeared. More serious cases were sent to Bethlem Hospital, 1 of the most notorious/infamous asylums.

The men here were seen as incurable. Conditions in the asylum were inhuman. Basic equipment (tables, chairs, beds, plates, cutlery) were forbidden. Sanitation was non-existent. They had a minimal diet, no medicine or fresh air, and were left to fend for themselves.

Mental issues had a stigma attached and those seen as having those issues were called insane. As a result, many attempted to hide their problems, otherwise they'd face social trouble or weren't taken seriously.

Sailors were seen as masculine and tough, which led society believing them incapable of having such illnesses, yet depression was indeed a major issue in the Navy.

Pressure from their higher-ups and a high demand for results in a short time worsened things.

Even officers were affected, due to the strain of responsibility.

The Navy Board considered men who were unable to perform their duties as having no place in the Navy and doctors were of the opinion that mental health issues made people "unfit for service".

While Jose’s at the asylum, he could’ve met Ada, who may have had the chance to perform hypnotherapy on him, which feels like it’d be very fitting for him. In her 4th deduction, it’s even said she studied and researched “psychology”, which again would fit with Jose’s issues. Emil in Ada’s 9th deduction is even said to suffer “recurring night terrors”, while 1 of his backstories mentions him having PTSD, which are the same sort of issues Jose is suffering from according to translations of Jose’s 5th deduction.

The Disappearance

Whatever the case, we know Jose fails to board his father’s ship 1 day while likely drinking in Liverpool, potentially due to a panic attack or nightmare or some other issue (or because he forgot), with Liverpool potentially being where they usually depart from (and thus could be where they may live close to).

From Jose’s 1st letter, we know the mission was supposedly to go to some spot in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean.

We know they brought mostly weapons like cannons instead of cargo out of caution due to the area being somewhere they apparently hadn’t been to before. The 1 non-weapon we knew they had was Wu Chang’s umbrella.

As the Queen thought they had stolen her treasure afterwards, as well as how they were said to “serve as the [Queen’s] royal escort”, meaning they might be protecting royals or their treasures, combined with how Jose’s backstory states they performed tasks such as “shielding English ships, or transporting royal treasures”, the latter may have been why they had the umbrella that day. In general, guarding her treasures may have been the “special mission” she assigned to them back in deduction 5. The antique umbrella may have been 1 of her treasures.

From Wu Chang’s 4th letter, we’ve learned that Joaquin, Jose’s father, was in the Mediterranean Sea to “perform trades” on behalf of Villhelm Lamb, with some of their cargo, including the umbrella, as collateral.

This connects back to Jose’s 2nd letter, as we hear about the “Bourbon” signature, and back in Jose’s 2nd letter, he said he saw the signature “Bourbon” on his father’s “list of goods” once. With what we now know about Villhelm, considering Jose says he’s only seen that signature “once” that implies Joaquin and Sam likely only worked together on this one mission (rather than them having a long term partnership).

The collateral (including the umbrella) would be returned once Joaquin gave Villhelm the “receipt of the goods from the specified area in the Mediterranean Sea”. We know from Jose’s 1st letter that Joaquin and his crew, aboard their ship which is called the Parthenope, never returned from this mission, which is why we see the umbrella exchanging hands in the latter part of Wu Chang’s 4th letter. It ends up with Qi Shiyi, who likely brought it with her when she went to the manor for her game. Jose goes to the manor himself when he learns that the umbrella is there.

Based on Jose’s 1st letter, as it says “the cannons couldn’t kill them”, it seems the crew somehow ended up hallucinating, which ends up being what caused their deaths (they likely sank, maybe by shooting their cannons at their own ship).

Considering we know Sam had some involvement with this voyage based on his signature, I do wonder if it’s possible he’s the reason the crew hallucinated. I’ve already discussed Sam and dovlin, as well as Demi’s 2nd letter, which states “the new mice all died in fear with no exception”. The crew based on Jose’s 1st letter were definitely “afraid”, and in terms of Sam’s experiment, they could be seen as “mice” aka lab rats. Since we know everyone died and the Parthenope likely sank, everything would match with what’s said. Joaquin and the crew of the Parthenope may have been experimental subjects for Sam’s dovlin and/or the manor owner’s drugs.

Shipwreck

If the Parthenope sank in the Mediterranean, that could mean that the shipwreck at Lakeside came from the Baden’s incident during Jose’s deduction 3 and 4, after the “nightmarish waters”, and why they ended up at Lakeside and the manor, which leads to them potentially getting involved in the tragedy where the DeRoss couple died.

Notable items on the ship include:

Map of the Mediterranean

Chinese symbols matching the ones on Xie’s (White’s) compass

The Teru Teru Bozu doll (used to pray for fine weather)

Picture from Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea depicting a sailor being grabbed by a giant squid

The Nighttime picture which seems reminiscent of Wu Chang’s trailer when Fan dies

The Jolly Roger/Cthulhu flag

“SAVE” (written in blood?)

The other reason being how we know Wu Chang’s umbrella ended up at Oletus Manor.

Various letters, including Hastur’s 2nd letter (which is before the Lakeside villagers disappeared) and Fiona’s 3rd letter, both describe it as a “shipwreck”. We also know the route Jose’s father took was described as “dangerous” and having “nightmarish waters”, and so entirely capable of causing a shipwreck.

Going to Oletus Manor

Jose waits from sunset to moonrise (as indicated by the titles of Jose’s 1st and last deductions, as well as from his backstory) for his father’s return, but he never appears.

The time between Sunset and Moonrise is usually between 30-90 minutes.

Due to the ship’s disappearance, the Queen believes they stole her treasure, leading her to punish the Baden family by taking their family’s wealth and titles.

Sometime after this, Jose hears that the umbrella turned up at Oletus Manor, and so he goes there to either find his father (despite how Jose’s father didn’t love Jose and how he treated his own son, Jose still attempts to look for him) or “retrieve our honor”.

Miscellaneous

Scurvy

Scurvy is caused by not having enough vitamin C (something the human body doesn’t produce naturally), which orange juice is rich in.

Back then, before refrigeration, sailors needed to ensure they had enough food on board to survive the journey. This meant mostly only salted or nonperishable food, like ship’s biscuits, salted beef, pork, cheese, and fish. Thus, without regular access to things like vegetables or fruit, sailors developed scurvy.

Scurvy killed more than 2 million sailors between the time of Columbus’ voyage and the rise of steam engines in the mid-19th century. The problem was so common that shipowners and governments assumed a 50% death rate from scurvy for their sailors on any major voyage.

The 1st symptoms of scurvy developed at least 3 months after having extremely low vitamin C levels.

The earliest symptom is lethargy, which was so intense people once believed laziness was a cause of the disease.

It was debilitating. Your body feels weak. Your joints ache. Your arms and legs swell, and your skin bruises at the slightest touch.

As the disease progressed, your gums become spongy, and your breath fetid, your teeth loosen, and internal hemorrhaging makes splotches on your skin. Old wounds open; mucous membranes bleed. Left untreated, you will die, likely from a sudden hemorrhage near your heart or brain.

Scurvy is treated by adding vitamin C to your diet. Most people treated for scurvy feel better within 48 hours and make a full recovery within 2 weeks.

Scurvy was brought to the public's attention due to commodore George Anson's journey around the world. He set sail with 6 ships for the Pacific in 1740 with 2,000 able seamen. When he returned to England with less than 700, the rest were found to have died due to the disease.

Anson's chaplain described their deaths this way: "those affected have skin as black as ink, ulcers, difficult respiration, rictus of the limbs, teeth falling out and perhaps most revolting of all, a strange plethora of gum tissue sprouting out of the mouth, which immediately rotted and lent the victim’s breath an abominable odor".

The Royal Navy discovered a solution to the disease in the 18th century thanks to surgeon James Lind. His experiment on board a naval ship in 1747 showed that oranges and lemons could be a cure for scurvy.

Explorer Sir Richard Hawkins in 1622 was the 1st to suggest citrus as a cure.

Dutch writer Johann Backstorm was the 1st to establish the true cause of scurvy

Captain James Cook circumnavigated the world from 1768 - 1771 on board his ship the HM Bark Endeavor, during which time no life was lost to scurvy.

Cook claimed it was because of the malt and wort he brought on board to test as a cure, but malt doesn't have vitamin C. His cleanliness and strict orders not to drink fat from the chef’s pans (that when came in contact with copper, irritated the bowels and made it hard to absorb vitamins) were actually more helpful.

Besides malt and wort, 1 other thing Cook had, found on the log of provisions put aboard, was 7,860 pounds of sauerkraut. Sauerkraut, which is made by fermenting thinly sliced cabbage in its own natural juices, is rich in vitamin C, though that fact was unknown at the time.

It wasn’t until 42 years after Lind’s experiment that the Admiralty first issued an order for lemon juice to sailors

Before Lind, some potential cures included:

"elixir of vitriol" (a dilute solution of sulphuric acid)

blood letting

applying a piece of turf to the patient's mouth to counter the "bad qualities of sea-air"

soup block (bones and scraps of meat from carcasses, boiled down then dried)

Cider

Sea-water

vinegar

1 cure besides citrus that did work involved sailors who ate the ship’s rats (as they synthesized their own vitamin C)

Superstitions:

Believed redheads were bad luck. If a sailor met a redhead before boarding, the sailor had to speak to the redhead before they spoke to him to mitigate the bad luck of encountering a redhead before setting sail.

Believed manta rays (aka devilfish or sea devils) could attach themselves to a ship's anchor and drag them under the waves to Davy Jones' Locker.

Tattoos and piercing are said to ward off evil spirits, while gold hoop earrings are said to bring good luck.

Had a fatalistic view of drowning. If someone fell overboard, they might not even be thrown a rope because it was believed their death was preordained. “What the sea wants, the sea will have”. Besides, a sacrifice to the sea gods might placate them so no more of the crew would follow.

Umbrellas were for foul weather use, and bringing one on board was thought to tempt fate.

Believed that earrings improved eyesight.

Wore gold earrings so they wouldn’t go broke. Even if they spent all their money drinking, the sailor could buy their way out of trouble. And if he died in a foreign port, there’d be enough money to take care of funeral expenses.

Similar superstition that gold coins placed on the eyes of a corpse were used to pay Charon for the voyage across the River Styx.

Why Sailors Wore Earrings

It was a mark of their voyages.

Earrings were given to young sailors to commemorate their 1st crossing of the equator or when they rounded the treacherous waters of Cape Horn (Southern tip of South America).

Believed pierced ears would prevent sea sickness.

Believed gold earrings would protect a sailor from drowning.

Silver or gold earrings were worth enough to pay for a sailor’s funeral.

Some engraved the names of their home ports inside their earrings so their body could be sent to their families for a proper burial.

If a man died on a ship, the earrings helped cover the cost of transporting his body home so it wouldn’t be buried at sea or on foreign soil.

Some sailors dangled wax from hoop earrings, which they used as earplugs when firing the ships’ cannons to help protect against hearing loss.

[thevegans]

Easy Vegan Paella 🥘

Hot delicious vegan paella is an exquisite culinary creation that tantalizes the taste buds and showcases the vibrant flavors of plant-based ingredients. With a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, tender grains of saffron-infused rice, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, this vegan version of the classic Spanish dish is a testament to the creativity and innovation of plant-based cuisine. Each mouthful offers a delightful explosion of flavors, as the rich tomato base intermingles with the smoky undertones of paprika, while the vegetables lend their unique textures and natural sweetness. The absence of animal products does not compromise the dish's depth and complexity, but rather allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, creating a truly memorable and satisfying dining experience. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or simply appreciate exceptional food, hot delicious vegan paella is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the incredible possibilities of plant-based cooking.

Ingredients:

1 red bell pepper

1 yellow bell pepper

1 cup kidney beans (cooked or canned)

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

1 1/2 cups paella rice (such as Arborio or Bomba rice)

3 cups vegetable broth

1 onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges for serving

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the vegetables: Slice the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips.

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or paella pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add the sliced bell peppers and green beans to the pan, and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Stir in the smoked paprika, turmeric, dried oregano, and saffron threads (if using). Make sure the spices coat the vegetables evenly.

Add the paella rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

After 15 minutes, check the rice. If it's still too firm, add a little more vegetable broth and continue simmering for another 5 minutes.

Once the rice is almost cooked and the liquid has been mostly absorbed, add the kidney beans to the pan. Stir gently to incorporate them into the rice.

Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add more vegetable broth in small amounts to keep the rice moist.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the paella from the heat. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Serve the vegan paella hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some lemon juice over the paella before eating for added brightness.

Enjoy your flavourful and delicious vegan paella!

[emblematicemblazer]

World building and theories of Engage

The Dishes of Solm

The dishes of Solm reflect the Mediterranean and Arabian influences in the cuisine of Sicily, the country Solm is inspired by. These dishes fall into various categories:

Special occasion food eg; milk nut pie, tiramisu,

Cold food suitable for the hot climate eg; chilled vegetable soup, berry sauce panna cotta,

Sharing food eg; classic pizza, seafood paella,

Easy to create and preserve eg; salt pork, meatballs and beans, tomatoes in sweet vinegar

Street food/take away food eg; soft candies, churros

Milk Nut Pie - This dish seems to be inspired by baklava. The foundation of all baklava, whether it is Mediterranean or Arabia, is: nuts, dough, butter or oil and syrup. Traditionally baklava is served at special occasions and was considered an aphrodisiac because of the ingredients.

Rice Nut Pudding - This dish seems to be inspired by zarda. Zarda can be served as a celebratory dish. The simplicity of the recipe and small number of ingredients make this a meal that can be enjoyed by commonfolk and nobility. 

Dome Bread - This dish seems to be inspired by Panettone. Panettone is served at special occasions because of the long time it takes to prepare. 

Chilled Vegetable Soup - This dish seems to be inspired by gazpacho. The reason the soup is cold is to reflect the hot weather of Solm. It is a refreshing soup that can be made with any fruit and vegetables available, traditionally tomatoes are the star ingredient.

Prosciutto - These thin slices of ham can be enjoyed as a light meal by themselves, placed in a sandwich or panini, in salads or as an antipasto. The uncooked ham suits the hot climate.

Kebabs - This dish is inspired by chicken kebabs. From the amount of meat Timerra consumes and the different places she cooks her kebabs it is clear that meat is plentiful. Kebabs can be marinated in a variety of spices and sauces to maintain moisture. It can be simply made as well as being as complex as desired. 

Seafood Paella - This dish can be with simple ingredients or with complex flavours. Paella is a Valencian word that means ‘frying pan’, it is named after the fact it can be cooked in just one pan. In the Mediterranean it is traditional to create huge paella to share at festivals or village gatherings. 

Meatballs and beans - This dish seems to be inspired by Cannellini bean and meatball stew. Just like the paella in that it can be made and served in one pot. Large quantities can be made to share at festivals. Stews and paellas are great for using up leftovers and ingredients of less quality.

Tiramisu - The name comes from the Italian ‘tirami su’; 'pick me up'. One slice of this Italian dessert is meant to cheer you up. It is often eaten as a celebratory treat. The great is always meant to ‘pick you up’ in another way because it is considered an aphrodisiac.

Berry Sauce Panna Cotta - The name means ‘cooked cream’ in Italian. This dish represents culinary artistry and elegance. It can be served as a snack or as a dessert to finish a meal. It is served cold, perfect to refresh in the Solm weather.

Seafood medley with garlic - This dish seems to be inspired by Cioppino. The word “cioppino” comes from the Ligurian dialect “ciuppin” and means ‘chopped to pieces’. This stew is easy to make and is the ideal meal for mariners and port workers in Solm. 

Fried Sardines - This dish seems to be inspired by ‘Sarde Fritte’, Fried Sardine Fritters. They can be served with a dip or with various sidedishes such as rice or salad. They are quick and easy to create.

Vegetable Stir Fry - This dish seems to be inspired by ‘sauted vegetables'. The dish can be made with any available or seasonal vegetables, it can also be a quick and simple method to use up leftover ingredients. 

Tomatoes in Sweet Vinegar - This is a way to reconstitute tomatoes for easy use. The tomato is hydrated in vinegar or oil and can be used in antipasto, as a snack on crusty bread. 

Crème Brûlée - In French ‘Crème Brûlée’ means ‘burnt cream'. This dish has a topping of a layer of hardened caramelized sugar with custard underneath. The top is slightly warm but the custard underneath is cold. It is traditionally a celebratory dish. In Solm's hot weather it is a refreshing dish.

Churros - Churro is onomatopoeic, it imitates the sound of frying. Churros are often sold by street vendors as a tasty treat. In so w reasons of Spain and Portugal they are eaten for breakfast with chocolate sauce.

Soft candies - This dish is inspired by ‘torrone'. It is a type of nougat made of honey, sugar, egg whites and nuts. They can be shaped into bars or a round cake. It can be eaten as a dessert good or a high energy snack.

Classic pizza - This dish is one that can be made in huge patches and stored. It can be eaten hot or cold to suit the climate of Solm. It is also traditionally a shared meal.

Risotto - Risotto means ‘young rice’ in Italian. Risotto is not the easiest meal to cook despite the few ingredients needed to make it. Risotto should be rich and creamy while al dente with distinct separation of the grains. The texture should be fluid and if spread there should be no watery pool. It should be eaten once it is ready. It can be eaten as a main course or as a side dish.

Rice croquettes - These are often sold as street food, served as a side dish or eaten as a tapas.

Rosetta Bread - This dish can also be known as michetta or rosette so ate.  The bread is shaped into a rose shape and is expected to puff up. They take a couple of days to make but make for a versatile bread. 

Acqua pazza - Acqua pazza means ‘crazy water’ in Italian. It is a recipe for poached white fish in a herb broth. This was traditionally eaten by fisherman but clever Italian peasants would make it with leftovers from wine making. 

Veal rolls - Solm is based on Sicily so it would be appropriate to call this dish ‘veal involtini’. In the Middle Ages beef was considered a coarse, tough meat to eat. Veal was considered tender so many peasant farms would slaughter a cow for their meat once their milk had dried up. 

Salt pork - This dish is inspired by pancetta which is often used to add depth to stews and soups. This meat can be preserved by curing. 

[gisenne-flameheart]

Meals and Musings

Another piece from Shio @the-littlest-kojin after discussing survivor's guilt that Rubi might experience. From what I know of 7.0 so far I may have plenty of ideas for these two in a completely different context and setting - a more relaxed vibe which they all well deserve both <3

Standing over the pan, Gisenne hums quietly to herself, slowly turning the wooden spoon dextrously between her fingers. Turning the food to a high flame, she hears the vast, heavy footsteps of her love behind her. Leaning back into his touch, she smiles quietly as his arm wraps across her shoulders - warm and pleasant to the touch, as ever.

“It’s nearly done,” she murmurs, “And I hope you will like it.”

Gently taking the spoon from her hand - the implement seeming utterly miniscule in his larger hand - Rubicante dips it into the food, bringing it up to his face. Gently sniffing it and placing a small portion in his mouth, he starts in surprise.

“I was… Not expecting the sense of taste to be so potent. The Alchemists were… Surprisingly skilled at creating this body. What was this dish called?”

A low laugh escapes Gisenne’s lips as she turns in his embrace, looking up at his face. The surprise painted across his inhuman features is obvious, and brings a smile to her own visage. Gently kissing his jaw, the warmth radiating through the point of contact, she takes the spoon back, resuming stirring the pan. “It’s called paella. It’s one of my favourite foods.”

“I see. I am… Still adjusting to having a sense of taste at all. I think I would need to eat more foods before I could declare this one my favourite. However… I do enjoy you cooking for me.”

Humming again, Gisenne rests her shoulders against his chest. The smell of seafood permeates the small kitchen as she watches the crust slowly form, in the embrace of her lover.

“So voidsent do not have a sense of taste, then?”

“No. Absorbing aether does not have a taste - more of a feel. So culinary matters are… Novel, to me. Lots of things here are.”

Hearing the melancholy in his tone, the Elezen frowns. Turning in his grip again, she reaches up to gently cup his jaw with one hand. Stroking the warm flesh gently, she meets his gaze with hers.

“What’s on your mind, my Ruby?”

A sardonic laugh meets her ears as he shifts - carefully, in the kitchen he is much too large for - until he is seated. Gently pulling her into his lap, his large hands softly caressing her body, he shakes his head.

“This world of yours… Is a wonder. It is a shining jewel, after so many years in the Void. Your star is one of bounty and plenty, and a part of me keeps wondering - when will it all turn to ash, and dust, and smoke, as everything in the Void did for so many years?”

Shifting herself closer to him, cradled in his grip, Gisenne makes no response, giving him the space he needs. Gently, she strokes his jaw, silently trying to comfort him as he is vulnerable.

“And my brethren… I weep for them, my Sun. Golbez may have not been entirely honest with me - with all of us - but I do not know. I cannot know. And regardless of his honesty, or intentions… It is a cruel fate for my Voidsent brethren, to be trapped in such a cycle.”

Gently pulling his face down by the jaw, the Elezen presses a kiss to his jaw, unsure how to respond. Cradling the back of her head with one vast hand, he laughs again, the deep sound resonating through her body.

“Here I am bemoaning the state of the Void with my beautiful Sun in my grasp. What fool I, to sound so ungrateful-”

“Shh,” Gisenne interrupts him, her voice soft. “You are not ungrateful. You are speaking your heart - and you are always welcome to do so here.”

Dipping his head, he presses his lips to hers for a slow, lingering kiss. His hands caress her back as he holds her close, slowly breaking the kiss. Warm breath washes over her face as he smiles at her - a small, secret smile.

“I love you, my sun. But for now, shall you finish cooking? I would love to share this meal with you - and many more to come.”

“Of course, my Ruby,” she murmurs, gazing up at him beatifically. “And we will share those meals while working together for your goal - you are correct, and I want to aid you, now and forever.”

[carrogath]

Undercurrent (ao3 link) arknights - f/f - specter/irene

“Do you recognize any of these, Irene?”

Irene skimmed the event schedule: cooking demonstration at 12 PM, flamenco lessons at 1:30, a classical guitar performance at 2. There was a virtual art exhibit down the street, and another beside it hosting artifacts from the Iberian Golden Age. One of the food stalls was selling authentic paella, fresh from the pan; another advertised cold gazpacho and charcuterie plates. There was a dedicated alcohol tent serving beer, wine, and a very heady-sounding sangria, which Irene was in no hurry to mention around her companion. Other vendors were selling dishes that sounded a little less intimidating, at least: Iberian tortillas, ham bocadillos, meat and vegetable stews that sounded more like what she was used to eating at home.

“Of course,” said Irene, looking up at her. Though in truth, she felt so distanced from this idealized version of Iberia that she hesitated to identify with it at all. “This is…” She clutched the pamphlet. “What Iberia used to be. Should be. If the Seaborn hadn’t come… If it were still safe to live…” Her hands shook. She folded up the paper and shoved it in her bag. “We have to defeat them. If we don’t, then we could lose all of this, too.”

“Is that what you’re thinking about?” asked Laurentina.

“You aren’t?” replied Irene.

“How could I be,” she said, looking her in the eyes, “when I’m surrounded by so many utterly captivating sights?”

The fledgling bird may have left the nest, but that doesn’t mean she’s ready to fly.

Irene, Laurentina, and the inexorable call of the sea.

(And an Iberian cultural festival. And also ice cream.)

[paellaworld]

The Ultimate Guide to Paella Spices for Authentic Flavour

When making a delicious paella, one essential component is the right paella spices. These spices give the dish its rich, signature taste that transports you straight to Spain. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, using authentic paella spices will ensure your dish is full of flavour. To perfect your paella, it’s important to understand which spices are must-haves.

First on the list is saffron, known for its golden hue and subtle floral notes. It’s an indispensable ingredient in paella and provides the dish with its distinctive yellow colour. Just a pinch of saffron can elevate the taste of your dish. If you’re looking to make your paella stand out, this is one spice you should never skip.

Next is paprika, which adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavour. Spanish paprika, often called pimentón, comes in different varieties: sweet, smoked, and spicy. The smoked version is most commonly used in paella. Its deep, earthy aroma brings depth to the dish and complements other paella spices.

Another important spice is garlic powder. While fresh garlic is often used, garlic powder can be sprinkled for an extra layer of flavour. It adds a robust taste to the rice and blends well with other paella spices.

Bay leaves are another secret ingredient. They release a subtle flavour when simmered with the broth, enhancing the complexity of the paella. The leaves are typically removed before serving, but their essence lingers, giving the dish a mild herbal note.

Lastly, don’t forget parsley and black pepper. Fresh parsley gives a burst of colour and a hint of freshness to contrast the rich flavours of the rice, seafood, or meats used in paella. Black pepper, though simple, enhances the taste of all other paella spices.

For those looking to make the perfect dish, the best place to find authentic paella spices is a specialty store or an online source such as Paella World. Their selection includes high-quality spices that guarantee an authentic paella experience. From saffron to smoked paprika, these spices are sure to give your paella the perfect flavour.

In conclusion, paella is all about balance and the right combination of paella spices. Whether you’re using saffron for colour, paprika for smokiness, or garlic powder for depth, these spices are the foundation of an excellent paella. Explore different varieties and experiment with amounts to create your perfect dish.

[dad-zac]

“I know it’s not the ideal assignment,” Hackett started. He stared out a large viewport, watching the ships come and go from the space stations docking port, with his weathered hands folded professionally behind his back. Isaac’s earliest memories were of his father standing the exact same way. “I don’t want you to think of this as a punishment.”

“I don’t, Sir,” Isaac answered honestly. He was fairly certain that punishment didn’t come with six figure salaries and command of an entire defense fleet at the Galaxy Alliance’s premier station. Isaac had grown up on Arcturus, just as much or maybe more, than he had grown up under the Terra Nova sun. 

“Still.” Hackett’s weary sigh betrayed him. He didn’t want to be assigning young officers to positions that until fairly recently were held by old friends. “I remember what it’s like. To wish you had boots on the ground.” He turned away from the viewport, glancing at Isaac, who straightened without thinking. “This life isn’t for everyone.”

Isaac paused, processing the Fleet Admiral’s meaning before responding in a classically calm manner. “I understand, Sir.” A heartbeat. “I won’t let you down.”

“I know you won’t, Son.”

-

The newly minted Rear Admiral had spent the walk to the docks reminding himself that it would be inappropriate for him to hold Commander Maisy Knight’s hand. He’d forgotten all about the shining bar pinned proudly to his chest until her painted fingertips grazed it and all he could do was wish away every scrap of fabric still between them.

He tried to downplay her accolades and congratulations, insisting the promotion a matter of logistical vacancies rather than merits, but she wouldn’t have it. Not wanting to spend their ever too-short time together in petty squabbles, he acquiesced with a quiet thank you as they walked, near shoulder to shoulder, to the small block of high rise apartments turned officer’s quarters he’d inherited from his father years before. Though, admittedly, he spent most of the stroll wishing he could hold her hand.

-

He’d made her one of his favorite childhood meals: paella straight from his grandmother’s ancient cookbook. But it was the stolen kisses and longing, loving looks, the tender touches between them as she sat next to him on the kitchen counter while he flitted back and forth chopping and sauteing and stirring and always offering her another taste. 

“Ma always grew the saffron flowers in her garden. She’d raise hell if anyone touched them before the fall harvest.” Isaac chuckled to himself at the memories of his mother cursing him, his father, the farm hands and anyone else who dared to mess with her crocus flowers before their yearly bloom. He smiled at the memories, well aware of Maisy watching him while he tossed a few strands of the potent, precious spice into the dish he’d spent so long on. “I promise it’s worth the wait.” “I’m not worried about the wait,” she offered simply with an honesty that never failed to wash over the young officer like a breath of Terra Nova’s fresh air. 

It was too easy to get used to the neverending rush of Alliance responsibility, the ever-impending sense of too much to do and never enough time to get it all done. He was grateful, more so every day, for the way all the clocks seemed to stop when she was here with him.

Isaac popped a lid on top of the wide paella pan and slipped himself between Maisy’s legs, delighted to find a complete lack of resistance. Keeping his hands firmly to himself, he leaned to kiss her impossibly soft cheek, to savor the scent of her freshly washed hair. “Twenty minutes to chow.” His heart nearly stopped beating in his chest when her pale green eyes flashed to his with a small smile fit to her full, tinted lips. 

“Whatever shall we do while we wait?” she teased, reaching out to tangle their fingers together and pulling him closer.

“It’s your call, Ma’am. I just work here,” he teased back, grazing his lips against her brow.

-

He wasn’t sure if it was the authentic home cooking still warm in his belly or the taste of Maisy still rich on his tongue, but Isaac hadn’t felt so full or satisfied in months. 

“That was bloody delicious, Zac,” Maisy sighed and let herself relax back into the soft sofa. 

He was sure she’d meant the food but he made a show of sucking her juices from two of his fingers and agreed wholeheartedly. “Yeah. It was.” They shared a wicked, shameless grin. “Mase, you’re my favorite dessert.”

[allwaysfull]

Margaritaville | Carlo Sernaglia and Julia Turshen

Breakfast

Pineapple and Coconut Milk Smoothie

Key Lime Yogurt with Graham Cracker Granola

Baked Boatmeal Squares with Blueberries and Coconut

Huevos Rancheros

Key West Omlet

Key Lime Hollandaise

South Florida Eggs Benedict

Spicy Breakfast Quesadillas

Triple B (Buttermilk, Blueberry and Banana) Pancakes

Best-Ever French Toast

Our Breakfast Potatoes

Appetizers

Volcano Nachos

Warm Asiago Crab Dip

Grilled Oysters with Tarragon Butter

Peel-and-Eat Shrimp

Mustard Sauce

Drunken Shrimp Skillet

Lava Lava Shrimp

Conch Fritters with Calypso Sauce

Spanish Octopus Salad

JWB Crab and Quinoa Cakes with Curry Kale Slaw

Crispy Calamari with Peppadews and Lemon Aioli

Fried Oysters with Creamed Spinach

Lionfish Carpaccio

A Day on a Boat

Kusshi Oysters with Granny Smith, Cucumber, and Mint Granita

Veracruz Seafood Cocktail

Tuna Poke with Plantain Chips

Paradise Ceviche

Belizean Shrimp Ceviche

Pimiento Cheese Hushpuppies

Crispy Eggplant and Goat Cheese Stuffed Piquillo Peppers

Fried Baby Artichokes with Remoulade

Tostones with Mojo Sauce

Hollywood Burrata with Grated Tomato Dressing

Jalapeño Deviled Eggs with Pickled Mustard Seeds

Cajun Chicken Quesadilla (Blackening Seasoning)

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings with Buttermilk Blue Cheese Dressing

Sweet Chile Chicken Wings

Salads and Soups

JWB Caesar Salad with Sourdough Croutons

JWB House Salad with Cashew Dressing

Little Gem Wedge Salad

Avocado and Papaya Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing

Quinoa and Mango Salad with Seared Tuna

Fried Green Tomato Salad with Salsa Verde and Quesp Fresco

Andalusian Gazpacho

Luxurious Lobster Bisque (Lobster Stock)

Bahamian Conch Chowder

Chicken and Corn Chupe

Burgers, Sandwiches and Hot Dogs

Cheeseburgers in Paradise with Paradise Island Dressing

Black-and-Blue Burgers

Turkey Burgers with Cheddar and Barbecue Aioli

JWB Surf’n’Turf Burgers

Ultimate Veggie Burgers

Grilled Flank Steak Sandwiches with Horseradish Sauce

Cuban Meat Loaf Survival Sandwiches

A Day on The Beach

Tailgate Muffuletta for a Crowd

Beach Club Sandwich

New Orleans Fried Oyster Po’Boys

Delta Fried Catfish Reubens

Blackened Fish Sandwiches (Jalapeño Tarter Sauce)

JWB Lobster Rolls

Aloha Hot Dogs

Own-Damn-Fault Hot Dogs

Blackened Chili Dogs

Main Dishes

Best-Every Chili (alt: vegan version)

Margaritaville Family Recipe Cuban Meat Loaf

Veal Saltimbocca Pockets

Prime Sirloin Oscar

Steak au Poivre

Summer Grill Surf’n’Turf

Grilled Skirt Steaks with Carlo’s Chimichurri

Slow Cooker Pork Should with LandShark and Cola

Chicken Enchiladas with Salsa Verde, Smoked Ancho, Pasilla Sauce

Chicken Tinga

Jerk Chicken

Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Country Gravy

Shrimp Mofongo al Ajillo

Spear Fishing with Carlo

Outside-Optional Cajun Clambake

Sardinian Seafood Stew

Pan-Seared Halibut with Artichoke Ragout

Seared Grouper with Fresh Mango Salsa

Crispy Sicilian-Style Pounded Tuna Steaks

Coho Salmon in Lemongrass-Miso Broth

Salt-Crusted Whole Snapper

LandShark Beer-Battered Fish

Seafood Mac and Cheese

Lobster Pasta

Paella del Mar

Jimmy’s Jammin’Jambalaya

Baby Back Ribs with Guava Barbecue Sauce

Pizza à la Minute

Side Dishes

Pico de Gallo

Guacamole

Cilantro-Lime Coleslaw

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Yukon Gold Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Spicy Red Onion Rings

Livin’ Floridays

Lobster Hash Browns with Jalapeño Cheese

JWB Creamed Spinach

Oven Fries

Fajita Black Beans

Island Rice Pilaf

Creamy Spinach and Cheese Grits

Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter

Grilled Corn with Lime Butter

Pickled Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

Dessert

Baked Florida

Key Lime Pie

Banana Cream Pie with Caramel Rum Sauce

Coconut Tres Leches Cake

Island Rum Cake

Strawberry Sponge Cake Shortcake

Frozen Mango Cheesecake

Crispy Bananarama

Chocolate-Bourbon Croissant Bread Pudding

S’mores Nachos with Warm Chocolate Sauce

Drinks

Brunch Rum Punch

Perfect Bloody Marias

LandShark Micheladas

Incommunicado

Jimmy’s Perfect Margarita

Frozen Paradise Palomas

5 o’Clock Somewhere

Red Wine and Cherry Sangria

Cucumber and Mint Coolers

Watermelon Pink Lemonade

[global-gastronomy]

PAELLA

country of origin: Spain 🇪🇸

Paella is one of the most famous delicacy from Spain, paella is a rice dish that originated in the Valencia region of Spain. Paella typically includes rice, saffron, and a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, and is cooked in a large, shallow pan over an open flame. The origins of paella can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when farmers in the Valencia region would cook rice dishes using ingredients from the surrounding countryside. Over time, these dishes evolved into the paella we know today, which has become a symbol of Spanish cuisine. Paella is often served at family gatherings and festivals in Spain and has become popular in many other parts of the world as well.

drawn & written by: KIRK GONZALES

[casspurrjoybell-17]

HEART'S FATE - CHAPTER 11

*Warning: Adult Content*   

As Skylar West sets the pan of steaming paella in the center of the little table, the mussels nestled picturesquely in the seasoned rice and a mouthwatering aroma filling the air, Martin Hunter realizes he can't remember the last time someone cooked for him in his own home. 

He also realizes, as Skylar serves everyone a hearty helping, how lucky he is that the kids aren't picky eaters. 

He'd been a little concerned when, upon learning what calamari is, Nico and Rio released squeals of disgust. 

But once Miguel tried a piece, they had tried it as well ‘not to be outdone by their older brother’ and declared themselves fans.

"This is really good, Daddy," Nico announces around a bite of rice and shrimp. 

"You should ask Mister Sky for the recerpy." 

"It’s recipe and don't talk with your mouth full," Martin remonstrates gently. "Remember your manners."

Nico ducks his head and chews more carefully. 

"Yes, Daddy."

"You're right, though," he says, ruffling his son’s hair. 

"It is delicious. Remember to thank Sky as well."

“Where did you learn to cook like this, Mr. West?" Flora asks, her sharp gaze fixed on Skylar. 

He casts Martin an amused look. 

Despite his insistence to the contrary, the children can't seem to drop the more formal terms of address.

"In Catalonia," he says. 

"I lived there for a time."

"Were you a teacher there, too?" she asks, narrowing her eyes.

"Not yet, no. I was an artist."

"What did you paint?"

"The sea, mostly and the tourists."

"Tourists?"

"Yes. I'd sketch or paint their portraits at famous places for a small fee."

"Like a street artist?"

"Indeed." 

Skylar nods and wipes his mouth with his napkin. 

As Martin’s eyes are drawn again to his long, lean fingers and sculpted forearms, toned and strengthened by all that swimming, no doubt, a thought as intrusive as Flora's questions slips through his brain.

Martin: ‘What would it feel like to be held by such arms?’

Barely stifling a gasp, Martin turns aside and coughs, blushing with secret embarrassment as Flora continues to grill their guest.

"Did you live in your van there, too?"

"Oh, no. I wandered about on foot, mostly. I found Europe much more amenable to an itinerant lifestyle."

Undaunted by the fancy words ‘her voracious reading habit having bolstered her vocabulary’ Flora plows on.

"Did you have a wife, or a husband?"

Skylar smiles. 

"No, I've never married."

"Do you want to?"

"Flora!" 

Snapped out of complacency at last, Martin casts her a warning look. 

"That's none of our business."

"It's alright," Skylar says, laughing easily. 

"Questions don't bother me at all. And yes," he adds, still looking at Martin, 

"Someday I would like to find a suitable match."

For some reason, Flora scowls at this and continues to cross-examine him for the rest of the meal, revealing that he'd traveled the entire coast of South America and had swam the English Channel more than once. 

Afterwards, once the kids have thanked him for the meal and headed off to do their homework, Martin apologizes for his daughter’s forwardness as he helps Skylar clear the table and wash up.

"Your children love you," he says, smiling. 

"But Flora is especially protective, I think."

"Yes. She is."

Skylar’s eyes sparkle with humor. 

"She wanted to establish my intentions," he says, wiping his hands on a cloth.

"Intentions?" Martin’s voice sounds a little strained and he clears his throat. 

Skylar nods. 

"She's very perceptive. Your marriage to her mother was an unhappy one, I've gathered."

Setting a clean dish aside carefully, Martin keeps his back to Skylar as he answers.

"Yes. We met in college. She was a few years older than me, already in med-school while I was an aimless English major. It felt like a fairy tale, a beautiful princess, a whirlwind romance. I found myself married at twenty-one, a father at twenty-two. I was still a child, myself, in a lot of ways, though I didn't think so then."

"But you weren't unhappy, at first."

"No. By the time I realized my wife wasn't who I thought she was, by the time I fell out of love with her..." 

Martin shakes his head. 

"It was too late."

"And you've not dated, since?"

Surprised, Martin blinks. 

"No."

Skylar nods. 

"Flora doesn't want to see you get hurt and she can tell that I like you."

The plate he’s holding slips from Martin’s hand and clatters in the sink but thankfully doesn't break. 

He spins to face Skylar, heat spreading from the center of his chest. Skylar merely smiles, keeping his distance.

"You like me, too, don't you?"

"I don't even know you," Martin gasps.

Skylar tilts his head to the side. 

"Must you know someone to feel attraction? I like you, so I'd like to get to know you better. That's why I'm here, in fact. I'd like to move in."

Heart beating wildly, Martin back away in alarm, wondering what kind of weirdo he’s allowed into his home and bumps into the counter. 

Skylar frowns.

"Have I said something wrong? You intend to rent the space above your garage, anyway, don't you?"

"Eventually, yes! But it's nowhere near finished, yet."

"I can help with that. I'm good with my hands."

Another intrusive thought wanders through Martin’s brain, adding fuel to the fire and he chokes a little.

"There's no plumbing," Martin says, shaking his head. 

"It's not even insulated yet. It's just a bare space."

"I can stay in my van, at first. I only teach three days a week, you know, so I'd have plenty of time to work on the renovations. I'll pay you in labor, and you can pay me in hospitality. I can help with the children, too and free up some time for yourself. And meanwhile... perhaps we can get to know each other better."

Dragging a breath into his lungs with an effort, Martin shakes his head. 

"I'm sorry. I can't. I'm... not interested."

Setting the dishrag aside, Skylar approaches until he stands directly in front of Martin.

"Not interested in men? Or not interested in me? I don't think I'm reading you wrong."

"Not interested in anyone," Martin says raggedly, forcing himself to look at the very attractive art teacher. 

A strangely gentle look softens Skylar’s eyes. 

"Flora has nothing to worry about, then. Will you think about it?"

"I can't," Martin repeats, self-protective shields closing down. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Skylar says, smiling. 

"And the offer stands. You know where to find me, if you change your mind. For now, I'll leave you in peace."

Skylar leaves Martin, alright but not in peace. 

It takes several hours for the single father’s heart to calm down and several days for the whole conversation to stop playing on repeat in his head.

                                                      ***

Skylar's sea-green eyes are still troubling Martin’s dreams when, Friday morning, the doorbell rouses him from an accidental nap. 

He'd fallen asleep on his laptop, passing out in the middle of a paragraph and now pages of gibberish fill the screen. 

Rubbing his face to erase the keyboard imprint, Martin checks the front door. 

A hulking figure stands on the other side. 

Six and a half feet tall, with biceps as thick as my leg and a bundled dread-locks in a neat knot, his brother, Dane, casts a long shadow. 

He's dressed in jeans, a white shirt and mirrored sunglasses and frowns as he rings the bell a second time, or possibly a third, depending on how deeply Martin had been sleeping. 

Steeling himself, Martin opens the door.

"Hi.,Dane."

Dane nods and shifts his weight. 

"Hey, Martin. Can I come in?"

Martin opens the door wider and back away. 

"Of course."

He enters, looking around and sniffing the air curiously.

"What brings you over this way?" Martin asks, though he can guess.

"Just checking in. Haven't heard from you in a while."

Martin clears his throat. 

"I've been busy."

"So I've heard."

Martin sighs. 

"Noah?"

"He's concerned. Says you're not taking care of yourself."

"Well, I'm not his business to worry about," Martin snaps, turning away quickly.

"Sure you are," Dane replies evenly. 

"You're family, you're Pack. Speaking of, when was the last time you Shifted?"

Martin shakes his head. 

"I don't know. Why?"

Dane shrugs. 

"Not good to go too long without letting the Wolf run free. Why don't you come over next week? You and Noah. We can Run together, and Julian can watch the kids."

"The kids..." Martin repeats and rubs his fingers over his mouth.

"Yeah. They'd love to see you. Luca keeps asking where 'the other Noah' is. They miss you."

Martin’s throat constricts, choking off his voice and he shakes his head. 

Dane sighs and rests a hand on his shoulder. 

"Martin, they don't remember. They had no clue they were ever in danger because you protected them."

"Protected." Martin scoffs. "I..."

"I know what you did and why and I forgave you a long time ago. Julian did, too. The only person who hasn't forgiven you is yourself. Don't you think it's about time?"

Martin shakes his head, unable to speak.

"Come here."

Dane pulls his little brother into a hug and kisses the top of his head, the way he used to when he'd pick-up, Martin, Noah and Travis, from grade-school as kids, embarrassing the shit out of them in front of their friends.

"Hey, you're my brother, you'll always be my brother and I'll always love you as my brother," he says gruffly. 

"When you're ready, we're waiting. You know that, right?"

Martin nods against Dane’s chest. 

"Yeah, I know."

Dane releases him. 

"Okay. Gotta go pick up the kids from daycare. I just wanted to say that in person."

Dane leaves and Martin watches him from the window by the door as he walks away. 

For such a macho guy, he sure knows how to get into the feels. 

For a moment, Martin imagines himself taking him up on his offer, arriving at his house, being welcomed by his Mate, greeting his little nephew and niece with a hug. 

Part of him knows Dane is right, that he’s held on to his guilt long enough and that he needs to let it go if he wants to move on. 

He just can't. 

Not yet, anyway.

                                                     ***

Monday morning, right after the kids have left for school, Martin’s cell-phone rings. He glances at the caller ID and groans. 

His editor only calls when a deadline is near and when she knows he’s not going to make it.

"Hi, Evelyn," he says, trying and failing to keep the weariness from his voice. 

"What's up?"

"Martin. How's the manuscript coming?" she asks, cutting to the chase. 

"Can I have it by Friday?"

"Um... Actually, I was thinking..."

"Martin," she cuts him off. 

"The publisher will not give you another extension, so don't ask. They're talking about dropping the series if you can't keep up. You missed three deadlines this year already. If you ever want to see another advance, I will have Death's Orchestra or whatever the fuck this one's called, in my inbox by next Friday. Next Friday. I'm giving you two weeks but that's all I can do. Understand?"

Feeling as if he’s just been asked if he understands his sentence of death, Martin manages a reply. 

"Yes, I understand."

"Good. I look forward to reading it."

She hangs up. 

Martin hangs his head. 

Two weeks? 

There's no way. 

A mellow voice echoes through his mind.

Skylar: ‘I could help with the kids, too... free up some time for yourself.’

The ache in Martin’s chest intensifies suddenly and it takes him a minute to catch his breath. 

He rubs his hands over his face and sighs. 

It's crazy but he has to do something. If he doesn't finish this book and get an advance for the next, he’s screwed. 

And he can't let his children see him fail like that. 

Not again. 

The Hunter children were already asking their father, when was 'Mr. Sky' coming to dinner again. 

Even Flora had grudgingly warmed up to him. 

Maybe, if all went well, they'd be in for a nice surprise. 

As for the rest, the 'getting to know each other' bit... well, he'd be much too busy for that.

Martin: ‘And besides, I hadn't lied. I'm not interested.’

Martin’s heartbeat quickens at the memory of sea-green eyes and powerful arms. 

He presses his hand to his chest and brushes the memory aside. 

Nope. 

Not interested at all.