#musings on last Friday's panel

[wafflebloggies]

the long con - part 4/7

a Don't Feed The Muse/Captain Disillusion crossover story. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

*

“I’m sorry, Alan.”

Alan stared at the Captain. He looked like a person who was seriously doubting the input of their own ears, and, in the dim cabin, the bright neons of the control panels and lights around them turning every speck of luminance into sharp glimmering point, his astonished expression wobbled. He did not actually burst into tears, but for just a moment he looked as if he might.

Only for a moment, though. It passed, and his expression sobered and settled, and he slowly sat back in his seat and leaned his head back against the worn leather, staring into the night.

“I… don’t believe you,” he said.

Blinking, almost as if the words were a question he was asking himself. Shaking his head, a numb little motion that grew as he spoke.

The Captain reacted sharply enough for both of them, flinching as if shot, turning towards him with an astonished, stung-to-the-core look.

“Alan!”

“It doesn’t make sense,” said Alan, calmly. He sounded more like he was talking to himself than the Captain, telling himself something important, with quiet, bewildered conviction. “There’s something you need me to do, or… something you’re not telling me, another temporal emergency that means you have to make me feel positive emotions, or- or something. There’s no other reason why you’d ever say that.”

The Captain bridled. “Alan, I don’t lie! This is me we’re talking about! I’m basically- thematically incapable of it! I literally spend most of my time telling people on the Internet not to lie because it freakin'- pisses me off so much!”

“Just back there, you told that ticket booth guy that vehicles of extra-terrestrial origin aren’t liable for parking tariffs under U.N law.”

“Come on, that was an exaggeration at most- and sixty dollars for a weekend? That is blatant extortion!” The Captain grimaced. “Okay, not the point. I wouldn’t lie to you!”

“You also tell people on the Internet not to accept claims without evidence,” said Alan, doggedly. “Sir.”

He sighed, glancing down, tucking his phone away behind him. “Captain… you’ve been acting strangely since Friday. Iknowyou. You gotta at least give me that, right? I know when something’s wrong, or- something’s upwith you, even if I can’t understand it because I’m just a dumb human, you could maybe at least just… tell me what’s really going on. Maybe-” He shrugged, looking away through the glass. “Maybe you’d feel better, at least.”

Feel better. It wasn’t hard to extrapolate from the tired undercurrent of apathy in Alan’s voice that what he really meant was stop acting weird. Quite easy, to go further and hear because, whatever this is, I don’t trust it, I don’t want to deal with it, and it’s making me uncomfortable. I’d just like it to stop.

The shuttle hummed, the systems purred and clicked. The Captain gazed out of the rain-streaked glass, shoulders slumped, following the faint smudges of lighter cloud scudding by above and below with his eyes. He looked wretched.

“You didn’t even remind me.” He swiped his sleeve quickly across under his nose, with a sharp sniff and a struggle into something more like his usual confident, upright posture. “About your talk. I... I’ve had a lot of other things to think about, you know. I’ve had a lot on my mind!”

“I know,” said Alan.

There were probably a lot of other things he could have said, but none that would have been so effective. Without meaning to, without meaning anything beyond just a simple agreement, he didn’t know how quietly, flatly damning he sounded.

I know. I’ve had a lot on my mind too. With everything we do, and everything it needs from me, everything you need from me. I know what it’s like, to have a lot to think about.

The Captain swallowed again, as if it hurt, flicking a couple of switches overhead as he stared through the windshield, the bright overlays and the HUD blinking between them. At last, like every word was a pulled tooth, he said,

“Fine. Listen, when I was on stage, I… I don’t know what happened. I’ve never felt anything like it before, or at least I…” He hesitated. “I… I just looked at some random guy in the audience, and the next thing I knew, I felt… it was like, I felt seen. Not in a good way, it-” He stopped again, his mouth pulled into a moue of discomfort and distress, gazing a hole through the clouds ahead as he struggled to explain. “It felt like... the tiniest part of something really, unfathomably big was looking straight at me and… it could see way more than you people can.”

“More?”

The Captain huffed. “Humans don’t exactly see a lot, Alan. Visual acuity isn’t really your species’ thing, you know? Your basic three dimensions, barely a million colours… well, you know, we made a whole video about it. But this, I felt like it could see… everything. Like it- it could...” He stumbled, stopped.

“It... wasn’t a great feeling.”

Alan frowned. “You said you were looking at someone in the audience, when it happened. Do you think it was anything to do with them?” He watched the Captain’s face, but saw only confusion, and that strange edge of fear- a mix of emotions which looked so out-of-place there that he felt pushed to try to help, to clarify, say anything if only to stop the Captain looking so frighteningly lost.

“What were they like? Maybe I would’ve noticed-”

“I hardly think that’s likely, Alan,” snorted the Captain. It was a relief for Alan, to hear him taking refuge in impatience. At least it was normal. “There’s no way you would’ve seen him from the booth, anyway. Some kid, hair all slicked back like George McFly, grey sweater, he was sitting in like centre-G with another guy- red check jacket, band shirt- that French prog rock thing-”

“Escalier,” said Alan. The Captain blinked.

“You saw them?”

“Not then. They- they were sitting at the same table I was at, after my talk, you literally just miss- sir, please maybe sometimes, um, actually look where we’re flying, you’re making me really nervous.”

The Captain finally returned his eyes to the windshield, where the low lights of early evening were gleaming through the soft rain, glinting across the dim landscape below. In grids and in tangles, towns and highways and the huge blackout zones of the Everglades, the state slipped through the rainy night under a blanket of cloud.

“I don’t like this, Alan,” he said. “I feel things, like my whole... vibe thing? Like when I say I’ve gotta go, because someone’s aunt in Des Moines is thinking of investing in crypto, that thing. You know?”

Alan blinked. “I… kind of always thought that was a bit?”

The Captain went to put his head in his hands, remembered he was supposed to be flying a shuttle, straightened up again. “No. Sometimes, people get all lined up to make exceptionally poor decisions- particularly ones involving the Internet- and wherever they are, I feel it. It’s like... someone sticking a Q-tip so far up my nose it tickles my brain. Ughh.” He shuddered, as if his silver skin was crawling from the inside out. “But it’s never been a two-way thing before. This time, it was. Like… like some super-terrible, super-toxic, life-altering decision, but- with eyes.”

Alan thought about this. He thought about Mark’s flat, hurried voice, how even in the middle of his pitch he’d sounded kind of frantic, more like a hostage with a gun to their head than someone nervous and eager at the chance to work with a favourite channel. He thought about the sinking feeling the whole thing had left him with, the anxious funk he’d been stuck with ever since.

“I don’t think I… understand exactly, but it sounds bad.”

“It is bad. I haven’t been able to stop- thinking about it, and...” The Captain trailed off, rubbed his forehead. “Other stuff. Whatever, the point is, this isn’t something we want to just leave roaming around loose out there. Look, I know tracking down some random guy we saw for five seconds at a convention full of thousands of people sounds like a pretty crazy, gargantuan mission, but honestly, the more I think about it, the more it feels like something I just gotta do.”

“Oh, that’s easy, I got his number.”

“You may well ask why, Alan, but it’s a question of responsibility. I have to ask myself, does it fall to me, as the sole superpowered defender of verifiable truth and generally good digital decision-making in this entire galactic sector, to… wait, what did you say?”

Alan was wrestling with his seatbelt, trying to get into his back jeans pocket without loosening the strap. “He gave me a business card, Captain. His name’s Mark… let me just give him a call.”

*

Anthony, shocked silent in the wake of Mark’s outburst, struggling for something to say, had only just opened his mouth when the sound of Mark’s phone came buzzing, muffled, from under the jackets in the back seat. It pulsed against the upholstery, vibrating through the fabric covering it like a smothered wasp. Anthony barely reacted to it at first, but as the sound came a second time, the fabric of Mark’s jacket illuminated faintly by that small blueish rectangle underneath, he blinked, twisted in his seat. Relieved, maybe, to have any kind of distraction, a reason to move.

“That’s, uh- that’s yours-”

He was already fishing into the back, feeling blindly around in the clustered shadows with one arm. Mark, instantly panicked, took a hand off the wheel long enough to try to grab the phone himself, but even though his arms were longer the driver-side seat was directly in front of where his jacket lay, and he would have needed to be some multi-jointed tentacle-being to have even stood a chance of getting a hand on it.

“Leave it, it’s fine!”

Anthony was fumbling under the jacket, hanging out of his seatbelt with half of his torso leaned into the back. “No, I got it- gimmie a sec-”

“I said leave it!” yelled Mark. The rhythmic double-pulse buzz of the phone felt like it was wired directly into his brain, the scraping of an insect buried between his ears. He felt the car start to drift under his control, and returned both hands to the wheel in a hurry, heart lurching, gripping hard. “Just let it go to message-”

“I got it, dude,” said Anthony- puzzled, uneasy, not a little wounded still. “What if it’s your mom?”

He sat back, poked the screen. “Hey, this is- hello? Shit, missed it.”

“See? Put it back, I don’t care who-”

“Wait, I could check the number-” All of a sudden, Anthony’s voice stopped in its tracks. Mark, glancing desperately sideways in snatches as long as he dared, was in a perfect position to see the exact moment that his worst fears were confirmed, right as it happened. Anthony’s brow scrunched, his hands went still, and he looked down at the phone in silence.

“What’re all these notifications?” he said.

“Don’t,” said Mark, but all the volume had gone out of his voice, all of the force, and with it the ability to even try to sound in control. The word sounded more like a small winded plea, and it was ten to one if Anthony even heard it, his finger already tracing and flicking and tapping, his eyes glued to the small screen.

“Thumbnail edited successfully? Thumbnail edited… thumbnail… description edited successfully… video title edited- Mark?”

Mark couldn’t breathe.

“Mark, what’s going on?”

Mark could feel Anthony looking at him. He could imagine his expression far too well even without looking, his accusing eyes, floating in the darkness with the lights flicking past the windows like the last crashing embers of his oh-so-clever plan. He said nothing, swiping the tears from his face with a quick, hot palm, kept staring straight ahead.

“Why did you change the video title?”

One last try. One last try, to explain again what he’d been trying to explain all weekend, to make Anthony see, as if anybody could explain anything well while battling the rising fury and panic that the embarrassment of being caught red-handed only flamed and fuelled, like throwing water on blazing oil. Like he should have to feel guilty, like he’d done something wrong, when he was doing the only thing he could, the one thing left that he’d been forced to do. Anthony was even incapable of understanding how he had forced him to this, forced him to lie and sneak around and feel like some kind of traitor.

“No-one cares about our videos,” he said, as patiently as he could. “This is the only way they’re going to be seen.”

Anthony was shaking his head slightly, automatically, the harsh light from Mark’s phone casting ghastly blue-white shadows up across his shocked, hurt face as he dropped the phone in his lap and turned to look at Mark.

“You’re making us sound like some stupid contrarian clickbait channel-”

“Those channels actually make money,” said Mark, evenly.

Anthony let out a quiet, punctured breath, and Mark didn’t even have to glance at him now to know he had that maddening, sympathetic, pitying look on his face again. He didn’t want to see it, he didn’t want Anthony’s pity. As if pity wasn’t completely useless, as if pity would green-light his mother’s medical coverage, or save her life.

“Look. I know you’re in a tough situation with your mom,” said Anthony, gently. “I get it! But that doesn’t have anything to do with the channel-”

“No, you don’t get it,” snapped Mark. His hands were still neatly at three and six, but his nails were digging into the fake leather of the wheel and he might as well have been driving underwater, or on Mars, for all the attention he was paying to the road in front of his burning eyes. On one level, he was aware that Anthony was not going to be any more easily convinced by being snapped at, or talked to as if he was a particularly stupid six-year-old. On another, he was too angry to care. “My dad’s not helping, our insurance got denied- I have to take care of her!”

“I’m sorry, Mark-”

Injured, understanding, but even now full of a kind of petulant, aggravating sympathy, Anthony’s voice grated in Mark’s ears and on his fraying nerves. To Mark, he sounded just like a whiny kid whose favourite toy was being handed away to someone else. And maybe that was the last straw, to hear so clearly in Anthony’s voice that the channel, the thing that was being dangled relentlessly over Mark’s head as his last thread of hope, was in Anthony’s eyes nothing but a neat toy he refused to give up, something fun he didn’t want to let go of just because it was his too.

“-but this isn’t just your channel! I’m not going to let you ruin this!”

Because this, this, was really the only thing Anthony cared about. Fun. Keeping something fun.

“You asshole-!”

Anthony’s stunned face, his eyes flicking all of a sudden past him, to the road. In the tumbling slowdown of seconds, his mouth opened without sound, the betrayal in his eyes flaring into panic, horror. Mark turned back to the road, far too late, as the car completed its slow drifting slew across the empty road and hit the kerb with a sickening, bone-shaking lurch, mounting it in a series of terrible earthquake bounces. A final glare of light, a snatch of safety rail, before the car dove headlights-first into a black void beyond. A black and crowding host of branches slamming against the windows, a rush of wet wheels tearing at the soaking grass, a final heavy impact that ended in a splintering crash of glass.

*

Silence.

Slowly, his pulse a jackhammer in his throat, his heart loud as a marching band in his ears, Mark raised his head. For a moment- a jumbled collection of moments- he wasn’t even sure where he was, only that his neck hurt and he felt sore and shaken in every nerve. His grasp on the thread of the world felt as if it had undergone a terminal skip, and he could catch hold of nothing coherent other than the fact that it was horribly, hideously dark, and something awful had happened.

Was happening.

Reality overtook him fast. Everything tumbled into place, and he jerked forwards- tried to- but his seatbelt held him clamped across the chest, a mechanical death-grip too tight to escape.

“Anthony?”

The car was quiet, the headlights, dash, every system dead and dark. The road, somewhere above and behind them, was empty, hidden, lightless. The engine ticked slowly as it cooled, water dripped and trickled, crushed branches groaned in the damp black night.

“Anthony??”

Fresh air started to seep in, cool against Mark’s face, full of rain and the scent of churned earth and bruised growth.

“Anthony!!”

#dftm #muse arg #don't feed the muse #mark mayhew #anthony williams #captain disillusion #alan the intern #alan amelik #my writing

[thatsnotwhoifuckingam]

After SPNDEN's Misha Panel... *.*A ficlet*.*

He sat cross legged on the couch flipping absentmindedly through his book while his mind ran over all the things he needed to get done in the coming week. It never seemed to end but it was so worth it. The busyness, the exhaustion, the time away from home. He felt like he was really doing something with his life and it made him feel so content.

A knock sounded on the hotel room door jerking him free of his musings. He jumped up and padded across the room wondering who it could be at this hour. A glance through the peep hole answered that question. He threw the door open and guestured for Jensen to come inside.

"Hey! I wasn't expecting you. Everything ok?" Misha smiled warmly but his smile drooped when he noticed the look on his friends face.

"We gotta talk Mish. What the hell was that during your panel on Friday?!" Jensen's glassy eyes told Misha he'd been drinking. Not so much he didn't know what he was doing but enough to loosen a tongue that was usually very controlled.

"You're not seriously upset about that, are you?  Come on Jensen, we both know the writers have been playing up that "will they/won't they" tension for years now.  They won't pull the trigger on it unless you're on board but that doesn't mean it's not there.  The fans know it and my fans enjoy an open dialog about it.  If they bring up Destiel I'm not just going to shut them down.  That's not fair."  His thick thighs flexed with the effort to lower himself to the couch in the living room.  Green eyes flashed for a second before returning to meet his blue.

"Ok, yeah, but that wasn't all you talked about.  What did they call it? 'RPF'?" His faded skinny jeans strained as he took a seat on the couch across from his long time friend.  Jaw working while he tried to find the words to express why he was so frustrated but he was having trouble figuring it out as well.

"Cockles.  You're pissed because I joked about you and I.  Come on, man, you know I was joking.  Daneel makes jokes about it all the time.  She even called me after the panel to laugh about it.  Are you having a "no homo" moment, is that what this is?" Misha swallowed the nervous disappointment that had thickened in his throat and pasted on what he hoped was a reassuring grin.  He suspected that maybe he'd let it go too far this time.  Maybe this man he'd been in love with for years finally saw his shenanigans for what they were.  An admission.

"Mish, look, I just....I mean I get uncomfortable.  I hate that some of the fans get shitty with you over it but I don't feel like we should get involved or it'll snowball. You know how I feel about you.  You and Jared are my best friends."  Jensen rubbed his scruffy face in frustration.  He couldn't get the words to connect to anything coherent.  Hell, he didn't even know what he was trying to say or why he was even there.  He'd come over in a rush, finally free from the schedule, but now he wasn't sure what he'd been so irritated about.

"What makes you uncomfortable?  Help me understand because I'm not sure I'm getting it. You realize this is no different that if the fans were wanting you to get together with any woman on the show.  I'm not telling you what to think or how to respond but I'm not going to allow it to be any different in terms of a conversation when it comes up in my panel because I refuse to alienate our LGBTQ fans.  If you think I'm wrong, call me out.  I want to hear what you think."  Misha stood up and began to pace as he talked, uncomfortably aware of how important this was to him at the moment and how quickly he would know for sure how Jensen felt about this, once and for all.  Maybe he didn't want to know.

"Well, I mean, don't you think Vicki might be just a little uneasy with the idea of you and some dude...." Misha cocked an eyebrow and stared back at Jensen.  Jensen smirked when he realized how stupid that particular concern was. 

"Jens, what are you really worried about?  Lay it all out there.  You can trust me, you know that." As he spoke he returned to the couch and sat down close enough to smell the familiar musk that seemed to follow this Texan everywhere.  Brow furrowed in earnest, Misha laid his hand over Jensen's fidgeting fingers trying to get him to relax. His reaction was the opposite.

Jensen jumped up from the couch and strode to the door.  "I shouldn't have come...you're probably right...I'm just overreacting."  His words tumbled out of his mouth in a fury. Misha jumped and ran after him, his heart hammering in his chest and quickly filling with dread. Just before he pulled the door open, Misha's toe caught on the rug sending him plowing into Jensen's back slamming them both into the door.

Taking a step back and murmuring apologies, his blue eyes sought out the green ones he cared about so much.  Jensen's were blown wide and frantic as he turned to look at his long time friend.  Misha wrapped his palms around the other man's shoulders and searched his face.

"Jensen, please.  Talk to me. If I've upset you this badly I'll do whatever I need to to fix it but something else is wrong here, I can feel it."  Jensen took a deep breath and looked at the floor as he rubbed at his neck.

"Do you even think about how it makes me feel when you talk that way?" The words came out quaking with uncertainty.

"No.  I guess I hadn't.  I mean we all joke constantly, I didn't think it mattered.  Honestly if the idea upsets you that much I'll just.."

"No, Mish, you're not understanding me.  I don't know how to come back from this but I can't keep it buried because every time you talk about it, at a con or on set, I wonder and it's torture.  Do you even mean what you're saying or is it all an act?  Do you actually...I mean, am I the only one who feels like this tension is real?"  Jensen chewed his lip nervously and looked anywhere but at the soft smile forming on Misha's lips.

Leaning in close, he slid his strong fingers behind Jensen's tanned neck and brushed his nose against his freckled one."Dammit Jens, why did it take you so long..."

#ficlet #fanfiction #cockles #musings on last Friday's panel #misha collins

[lonely-lost-soul]

A Pirate's Life for Me

Cover Art Done By: @fridaydev-draws and @friday-dsv (Dreamsmp x reader) Pirate Au! Love Interests: C!Wilbur, C!Techno, C!Dream, C!Sapnap, C!Quackity, and C!Schlatt

~~~

Salt burned your lungs as you tossed open your window with a loud bang, the seagulls perching on your flower boxes screeched in protest and flew from your window. “Fucking sky rats get the fuck out of here you heathens!” You snarled out the window shaking your fist at the bothersome birds, the sounds of the ocean crashing on the shore filled your ears as well as the chatter of the dock workers. You let the breeze blow back your hair and you heard someone calling your name from down below.

“Good morning (Y/n)!” You glanced below you and grinned,

“Morning Eret!” They waved back enthusiastically their dress spilling around their ankles, a basket of fruit was balanced on his hip. “Opening early today? I'm sure your patrons would be happy to start their drunken stupor early,” She held a hand to his mouth snickering and you shot them a look.

“If that gets more money in my pocket then so be it, I won't complain too much.” You shrugged, “Will I still see you later tonight?”

“Always do dove, how can I resist a drink from my favorite bartender.”

“You can’t it’s my charm.”

“Will the both of you shut the fuck up!” Another man’s voice growled from another open window, “It’s too early for your bullshit.” You saw Eret click his tongue but smiled up at you despite the man's protests,

“I’m heading to the market anyway. These fruits won’t sell themselves, I'll see you later.”

“See you soon!” You closed your windows once more, but not before urging your daisies to grow one last time. You tossed open the curtains allowing light to spill into your cozy home, a small carpet was in the middle of your room. It was a deep red and the pattern was made of gold yarn, aside from that everything in your residency was made of dark wood. Your shelves were littered with books and empty cups, and your old worn journal sat open on your desk. It was filled with childhood memories and you continued to write in it to this day, it was easier then, things were simple and everything was innocent and new to you. Now your days were filled with sea fairing idiots who liked to drink themselves stupid, but you could handle yourself, you always kept your father's dagger on your thigh at all times. Those who were frequent customers knew not to mess with you and those who were new learned their lesson within the first ten minutes of meeting you. You inherited the bar from your father, a kindhearted man who died a few years before today, leaving you with the bar and the dagger you had on your hip. You fished through your closet pulling out your clothes for the day, your dress was a gorgeous light coffee color and came down to your ankles. The bottom was flared and had dark brown panels on the sides, it faded inward to a light green then back to the coffee color. The corset around your waist was a dark brown with light green trim, you tied it tight with a small huff making sure your waist was sinched perfectly. The sleeves came down to your elbows allowing you to move your arms freely while making drinks. The top of the dress ended just below your collarbone, you strapped your dagger to your thigh before lacing up your knee-high black boots.

You thought back to your tavern downstairs, you were fortunate enough that you weren’t running this entire operation yourself. You ended up hiring help and they were like family and you knew they saw you as such as well. Most of the girls didn’t have a family of their own so you gave them room and board, also money, of course, you weren’t a terrible boss! You opened the door to your room, you watched Cecil, the tavern’s mascot trot out of Juniper’s room. The border collie liked to switch up which rooms he stayed in protecting every one of your girls when you couldn’t be there for them.

The first of your girls was Adelaide or Addie, she was one of the first to fall under your care. She was around your age, a motherly type, sheep hybrid, who cared for the girls, and always gave the drunk patrons with mommy issues a shoulder to cry on. Her long brown hair always hung down her back, she typically worked tables, served food and drinks, and always got a generous tip from patrons.

The next girl was Judas, a squid-enderman hybrid who was taller than you could ever wish to be, although intimidating you couldn’t meet a kinder woman. A jack of all trades the woman helped out wherever she could, black-ish purple hair curled around her shoulders and some people came specifically to hear her sing. Her voice was like rich velvet and lured men and women in like a siren.

Juniper was after Judas, a demon hybrid who was naive but you’d be a fool to underestimate her. She worked beside you at the bar, she can make some mean fruity drinks, Eret always preferred her drinks over yours. Freckles adorned her face and shoulders, her light brown hair curled down to her middle back, purple horns sprouted from the top of her head. You wanted to adorn it with gold jewelry and you were saving up to gift some to her.

Yeti was a human woman like yourself, she didn’t bother with those who were rude or obnoxious. She kept to herself only really talking when she was spoken to or when there was an opportunity to crack a rare joke. She typically stayed on the sidelines, out of the scenes and Yeti liked to help Judas decorate her sets.

Zig was a kind young adult, they got along with everyone who came inside the tavern. Soft emerald eyes drew people in, and they tried to make sure tensions within the bar didn’t rise and start a fight. There would always be one or two that’s just natural, but one look at Zig and his magic words and they seemed to disperse, not wanting to hurt the kid’s feelings.

Vendetta was the tallest member of the group you had taken in, she was stunningly beautiful and didn't take shit from anybody. She was a guard dog if you will, making sure no one fucked with any of the girls in your tavern. While Zig did their best to keep people under control sometimes they couldn’t win. That’s when Ven would step in and ‘kindly’ escort them off the premises with or without force.

The youngest member here was Luvena. She was a moo-bloom hybrid with soft brown hair that sprouted flowers, her cow ears would twitch when she was excited and followed Addie around like she was her daughter. Addie took her under her wing and was training her to be a perfect little waitress, absolutely warming customers’ hearts. Luvena also loved to give out flowers, she was a fan favorite bringing new life into the tavern.

Cecil barked seeing his mama and scampered over to you, you poured food into his bowl as Juniper wandered into the hallway. Her head rested on the doorframe as she gave you a tried wave, “Morning (Y/n).”

“Morning Juni, We’re opening a little early today. Take your time I’m not expecting a big rush of bar patrons this early.” You assured her and she gave a sleepy nod,

“I’ll be down as soon as Ven’s out of the shower.” She yawned, “This beauty doesn’t come naturally.”

“Hardly darling you’re gorgeous just the way you are.” You reassured with a wink, Juniper flushed a little, happily laughing beside you.

“Just go wake the others will you, you flirt!”

Tossing your head back you gave a happy laugh heading down the hallway to make sure everyone was awake and ready to go for later. Addie and Luvena shared a room so she was in charge of waking up the youngest member of the tavern. Judas was already awake making breakfast for everyone when you headed downstairs, Zig was sitting on the counter beside her, they were the designated taste tester.

“Good morning Miss (Y/n)!” Zig chirped, the young adult hummed fondly, “Sleep okay?”

“Absolutely. What about you both? Thank you for making breakfast Judas.” You hummed fondly and Judas had a shy smile on her face.

“I slept well thank you.” Judas hummed softly, “Also it’s my pleasure. Want to make sure everyone’s healthy and alright.” She let out a little squeak as you wrapped your arms around her body, you barely came up to her chest,

“Judas please marry me,” You complained, “Your breakfast is always heavenly and you care for everyone. Please be my wife.”

“(Y/n)! Please.” She sputtered face turning a dark purple, Zig made a noise of protest and held his hand in the air.

“If she won’t marry you I will!”

“Zig! I’d be honored!”

Their entire face lit up with excitement and they hopped off the table to hug you tightly, you hugged them back and pressed a fond kiss to the top of their head. “I got to open up the tavern, you mind setting the table for me Zig?”

“Sure Miss!”

You sent Judas a kiss in the air which her face burned at, quickly going back to her cooking. You smiled eagerly and unlocked the door to the tavern, you shoved a bucket in front of the door to keep it open. The salty ocean air wafted through your nostrils and your eyes sparkled wondrously.

Today is going to be a good day.

Almost immediately a particular bastard caught your eye,

“You’re here early.” You mused raising an eyebrow,

“Heard you were opening early today sweetcheeks,” His voice was a low baritone, rough from years of smoking and drinking. Horns curled around his fluffy ears that stood out against his gruff exterior, he was a ram hybrid at its finest. “Figured I’d take the opportunity to get a special drink from my special girl,” He mused looking you up and down drinking in your figure. You scoffed at the retired man, he dressed like he was cosplaying captain jack sparrow, the gun’s in his belt just added to his costume and so did his large ruffled shirt, he was never one to forget his gold jewelry.

“Where’s Quackity?” You ignored him sitting him at his usual table, he frowned but you knew he was taking it as an opportunity to stare at your ass. He slid into the stool and put his feet up on the table, his boots were muddy but you could only control him so much. He was too much of a regular to get scared off by your threats and scolding.

“He’ll be in at his normal time. He’s not much of a day drinker, although can’t say I’m complaining. Having all your attention on me and all, considering I’m the only one in here. That being said, I’ll have my usual sweetcheeks.”

“Stop calling me that,” You scolded with a certain fondness that was reserved for the man. “You’re lucky you’re my favorite regular Schlatt,” you gave his ears a fond pinch and he bleated. He sent you a scalding look as you walked away, although the look soon fell as he got a good look at your ass once again.

“I’m your only regular sugar tits!”

“Schlatt feet off the table.” Addie criticized whacking his boots with a rolled-up menu, he rolled his eyes but dropped his feet to the floor. “You should know this by now, we go through this every day.”

“Yeah, yeah little lamb I’m on it. Judas here?”

“She’s always here,” She huffed spreading the menu down on the table. “Do you want your usual or something different? Should I get Quackity’s drink ready too?”

“Nah just stick with mine, for now, tell Judas I’d like to see her.”

Addie clicked her tongue and placed her hand on her hip, “fine. But if you’re just going to grossly flirt with her as you do with (y/n), then keep it to yourself.”

“You’re not the boss of me. Just because you look like an old hag-” The way she glared at him sent a chill down his spine, “shit babe take a joke will you.”

Eventually, people began to file into the tavern, as the morning faded into the afternoon and then into the evening. The tavern was bustling with life, Judas’s elegant voice traveled through the crowds and her voices seemed to float above the voices. Quackity joined Schlatt by his side seemingly irritated by a conversation they were having, Schlatt was about five drinks in at this point, which was much less than his usual, and Quackity on his second.

“What are they talking about?” Luvena asked swinging her legs as she sat on the bar beside you. Her moobloom ears twitching every so often as she tried to eavesdrop on their conversation,

“Vena it’s impolite to eavesdrop.” You scolded bopping her on the head lightly, she whined and rubbed the top of her head.

“I wasn’t!” She argued as you rolled your eyes, you looked over at the two men to find Quackity looking over at you. His hand was raised in the air, one finger was up summoning you to get him another drink.

“I’ll be back, why don’t you talk to Ven while I’m gone. She’ll keep an eye on you.”

“I don’t need a babysitter!”

“Good thing she doesn’t want to babysit your ass either, now shoo.” You motioned her to hop off the bar and she did so with a long, dramatic sigh. You looked over at Ven who gave you a silent nod, letting you know she’d watch out for the youngest member of your band of misfits. Meanwhile, you grabbed Quackity another drink and walked over to the two men at the table, “Someone order a drink?”

“Aye! Mamacita! Fancy seeing you here.” Quackity purred a bright smile spreading across his face seeing that you were the one to deliver his drink,

“Hey Big Q,” You greeted placing the drink in front of him, “You doing okay?”

“Better now that an angel walked into my sight,” He flirted and you rolled your eyes. “What? It’s true! You always brighten my day you know? Ow!” Schlatt hit his ex-first mate over the head,

“Take a breath lover boy. Thanks for the drink sugar tits.”

“You’re welcome, what were the both of you talking about if I may ask.” You hummed grabbing some of Schlatt’s empty glasses, an uncharacteristic frown came over both their faces. “Oh? Touchy subject?”

“Don’t worry about it, sweetheart. Just dishing out some old problems, most of which are better left unsaid.” He aimed that statement at Quackity, his jaw seemed clenched and Quackity’s brow furrowed in annoyance.

“Well I just want to remind the both of you,” You passed the tray of empty glasses over to Addie as she walked by, she took them swiftly. You grabbed the side of both their heads and pressed them against your chest, not that you knew but both men’s flushed to the tips of their ears. “No physical fights are allowed in this tavern. If one starts I won’t hesitate to kick your fucking asses. Got it?” They looked over your chest and locked eyes with one another, after years on the sea they could read one another’s facial expressions rather easily and at that moment they shared the same thought,

‘They should fight more often.’

“I said, got it?”

“Yes ma’am,” The repeated simultaneously as you pulled away,

“That’s what I like to hear-”

“(Y/n)!” Vendetta’s velvety voice called out from behind you, you turned and saw a group of newcomers file into your bar. Your body tensed momentarily,

Pirates.

Schlatt turned his head to follow your gaze and he tensed from behind you, “fuck me.” He growled and Quackity raised an eyebrow at his captain, he turned to look over his shoulder and his face lit up.

“Sapnap!”

The pirate who had a white bandana tied around his forehead glanced over at him and a smile lit up across his features. “Quackity? Is that you?”

“My man!” He stood up from his chair heading over to wrap the man in a hug, “I haven’t seen you in years, man.” You zoned out of their conversation eyes locking with a few of the other pirates who walked into the tavern. Vendetta and Addie both greeted them, but everyone who was under your care knew to keep their guard up around pirates. From what you could gather there seemed to be two crews, a crew of what only seemed to be two, Sapnap was included. The fire demon was still talking with Quackity, while the other man took in the view of the tavern, he had shaggy blonde hair, and had a few scars across his face. A porcelain mask sat on top of his head, a forest green cloak was around his shoulders, his hood was lowered around his neck. A sword was strapped tight against his hip and there was another dagger that seemed to be tucked against his side. His eyes gazed towards you and he winked teasingly with a coy smile, you scoffed looking over at Addie.

“Seat those two gentlemen yeah? Be careful, I’ll tell Ven and Yeti to keep an eye.” Addie looked at you, concern written on her soft features but she nodded. While Addie departed, you noticed Ven talking with the other group. Luvena was hiding behind Vendetta’s long legs, although a tall blonde boy seemed very keen on talking to her. You smoothed out your dress and moved towards the group of three, you eyed them up casually. The blonde looked to be around Luvena’s age, he had a shit-eating grin on his face and his uniform matched that of the second tallest in the group. The second tallest was clad in a light blue jacket with large golden buttons on the red collar. He had a cream-frilled shirt underneath and a black belt holding up his brown slacks, those were tucked into black boots. On his back seemed to be a guitar and was the only one of them not holding a weapon, but you knew better than to assume with pirates. His curly brown hair seemed to bounce every time he talked, he seemed to be the ringleader but there was no doubt that the real ringleader was the hybrid standing beside him. He was taller, on par with Vendetta in height, he had long pink hair that was tied in a ponytail on top of his head. A few pieces framed his face elegantly, there was no doubt he was the captain of the little crew that was in your tavern. He had a white shirt on with a deep low cut ‘V’ it showed off a good portion of his scared chest, around his shoulders sat a deep red jacket but his arms were outside of it and crossed over his chest. He seemed content on letting his second in command do all the talking, his red eyes were the only ones to meet yours. His head tilted upwards and before Vendetta could stop him he walked over towards you,

“You own the tavern?” His voice was a low monotone and it sent an array of pleasant chills up your spine.

“I do,” You raised an eyebrow crossing your arms over your chest, “Names (Y/n). You are?”

“Captain Technoblade of the ship Odyssey, I was hoping you had a few rooms and a table available. My brothers and I are pretty exhausted, we’ve been sailing all night.”

Brothers, they certainly didn’t all look alike, but then again you certainly had a mix of girls in your care. Your tongue swiped against the top row of your teeth, “Why don’t you and your brothers take a seat at the bar for now. Juniper will be happy to serve you, I’ll see if we have some free rooms available.”

“Thank you, once you return I’ll introduce them to you if you’d like,” Technoblade bowed his head before turning back to get his brother’s attention.

“I’d like that thank you.” You gave a nod motioning for Vendetta to follow you as you slid behind the bar with Juniper, Judas had also taken a spot sitting on the bar. You figured you’d let her know as well, considering she was another adult figure in the group. You knew either Juniper or Judas would fill in Addie considering the three were close. “Ven, can they be trusted?”

“Not too sure about the masked man, the one Quackity seems to be familiar with seems decent enough. He’s a fire demon though, could smell him from miles away, we all just need to be cautious.”

“Agreed,” Juniper added tapping her finger on her chin. “We should just try to curb all fighting if at all possible, what did the captain of the other group ask you?”

“They want a room, I’m about to check to see if we have availability. Thoughts on that?”

Judas let out a low hum her eyes followed both sets of pirate groups around the tavern, “I say if we have availability let them stay. They seem harmless so long as we don’t mess with them, which we’d never do.”

“Plus I can always stay awake to keep an eye on them.” Vendetta tapped her nails against the table,

“You sure.”

“As if I’d let anything happen to any of you, you’re my family.”

You all smiled softly, and you noticed Judas’s eyes widen, “Zig! Get that out of your mouth this instant!” She shot up from her spot and over to the person in question. The three of you laughed fondly at the nonsense, meanwhile, Juniper saw the three brothers sit at her bar. She moved away from you to greet them, you immediately could tell she was taken with the second eldest brother.

He seemed to be an absolute lady killer.

Vendetta ruffled your hair before going back to stand at her place by the door to keep the peace. You headed up the stairs to the rafters to check on the extra rooms you had, “Excuse me?” You tensed visibly turning around to face the man in all green. His eyes were mesmerizing, a fierce jade green to contrast his cloak, “Do you happen to have two rooms available?” The man held up two fingers to clarify his request,

“Do you usually start introductions with a blatant request like that?”

He chuckled a smile spreading across his lips, “I’m Dream and you gorgeous?”

“(Y/n), it’s your lucky day I’m about to check and see if any are available. My tavern is a hot commodity tonight.”

“Well, I can see why,” he spoke and you raised an eyebrow and tilted your head to the side.

“Oh?”

“It has the hottest owner around. Word spreads fast.”

You couldn’t believe this man was making your cheeks burn, he chuckled softly taking a step towards your figure. “Oh really, word spreads that fast on the open sea, Captian?” It was his turn to turn light pink, but he covered it up quickly with a chuckle.

“Touché.”

“I’ll get on that room for you and your friend. Take a seat, for now, this part is for guests and staff only you know?”

“So I have you all to myself?” He cheekily mused, he stepped towards you and before you knew it you were pinned against a wall. His hand suddenly brushed against your cheek, it was cold in comparison to your warm cheek. You felt Dream’s thumb brush against your cheek slowly, “You know...being on the open sea alone does something to a person.”

“Oh, I’m sure.” You mused pushing your forehead back against Dream’s, “All alone with only your crew with you.” Taking his other hand within your own you slid it up to your hip, you saw his entire face turn red as he stared down at your chest. “You’re probably missing a little love in your life, aren’t you Dreamy?” He nodded dumbly, his eyes still not leaving your chest,

Perfect. You weren’t going to let some pirate boy get the better of you.

He let out a grunt of pain as you spun him around and pressed his head into the wall with your elbow, your other hand has his pinned behind his back. “This hallway is for staff and guests only,” You purred in his ear before letting him go and swinging your hips before heading up the stairs fully. From behind you, Dream’s face was a deep, dark red and he had to clear his throat. Dream wasn’t going to let you go after that, I mean look at you, tough and able to hold your own, it awakened something inside him.

After checking up on the rooms you headed back down into the main hall, three-room keys in your hand. Glancing over at the scene in front of you, you saw Juniper dancing in the middle of the tavern the flirtatious brother at her side. Judas was sitting beside Schatt and Quackity at the bar, Addie was tending to Technoblade and the blonde at their little table. Dream and Sapnap were whispering to one another in the corner but still seemed to be enjoying the show. Vendetta was smiling softly by the door, beside her were Luvena and Zig both playing various instruments. You noticed Eret was also amongst the crowd, she had a brilliant grin on his face, it was flushed pink with alcohol and you smiled to yourself.

It was peaceful, and for a moment you forget half the patrons were scoundrels or pirates.

That was until the man dancing with Juniper locked eyes with you, his eyes lit up and he spun Juniper off into Addie’s arms. She giggled snuggling into the mother sheep’s arms, you heard a distressed “Juni! I’m holding glasses!” Before your vision was overtaken by the handsome flirt.

“Hello love,” He hummed, “May I offer you a dance?”

You were about to refuse but you saw Yeti, who finally made her appearance as it was getting closer to Judas’s set, giving you a big thumbs up “I’d be honored.” You responded taking his hand within your own, he pulled you out onto the dance floor and you felt his other hand politely hover on the small of your back. He allowed you to lean into his touch as he began to elegantly spin you around the dance floor, you were almost embarrassed to say felt like a princess. “Maybe I could get your name?” You asked above the music, “Since it seems you’re my dance partner this evening?”

“Wilbur Soot my love.” He hummed proudly, “The first mate of the ship Odysseus at your service. Plus I play music on the side.”

“Well now you need to play for us,” Wilbur twirled you around in a circle,

“Maybe one day. If you give me your name?”

“(Y/n) (L/n).”

“Beautiful name for a beautiful woman.”

“I was right.” You commented biting the bottom of your lip trying not to smile,

“About what?”

“You.”

“Ah? Already talking about me I see? Is my manliness and gentlemanly qualities that renowned?”

“Not exactly.” He picked you up slightly and pulled you into a low dip, “I was right in thinking you a nothing but a flirty playboy.” Wilbur almost dropped you, you squawked grabbing onto his neck. He began to laugh as you clung to his chest,

“Alright love. You caught me red-handed.”

Wilbur set you on your feet hands on your lower back, you were pulled close to his chest. “Can I buy you a drink?”

“I get them for free hon. I own the place.”

“Oh...oh.” He paled a little, “I didn’t fuck up our chances of getting a room did I?”

“Nah lucky for you and your brothers, I have you covered, same with your buddies over there.” You motioned to Dream and Quackity’s friend, Wilbur’s face paled as he felt the chilled room key get placed in his palm. “What’s your little brother’s name?”

“Tommy.”

“Tell them both we serve breakfast free from 7 am to 10 am.” He nodded as you walked past, Wilbur meanwhile turned to look at Technoblade. It seemed he had his red eyes on the couple the entire time they were dancing. He held up a room key, it was labeled 205; Technoblade nodded his head before leaning back and talking to Addie once more. “Dream!” You called throwing a hand up into the air, instead of Dream, Sapnap looked up he nudged Dream with his elbow. The man was now wearing his mask, but at least you could tell he was looking at you,

“Well hello, darlin’ you must be (Y/n). Name's Sapnap. Dream told me about you, so you have good news for us I hope?”

“Pleasure, I'm sure he told you all about me,” He nodded, his eyes taking in your body especially your ass. “Got you both a room key, your neighbors. Across from the other crew of pirates. Just don’t fight and we won’t have any problems.”

“You mean those jackasses are staying?” Sapnap complained loudly, looking over your shoulder at the other crew members.

“You both didn’t think you were the only patrons, did you? This is a business after all.” You, tossed the keys their way, Dream caught it with ease and Sapnap fumbled it only a little bit. After they were in their hands, you waved them off with a flutter of your palm you turned around to go speak with Judas about her set but before you could take a step you saw Schlatt stumbling up from his seat. “Ah shit,” You knew what was about to happen, you weren’t paying attention to the ram hybrid so who knew how many drinks in he was. You felt responsible, for a while you and Judas had been trying to help Schlatt with his addiction. You couldn’t help but wonder what exactly set him off for him to get this drunk, Quackity caught him in his arms with a grumble. The man was a drunken mess, and as you approached you could hear his slurred speech and could practically smell the alcohol on his breath. “Schlatt,” You spoke carefully and as soon as you got close Schlatt detached himself from Quackity and lunged at you. His head was buried in his chest, he almost purred like he was very happy to be there, you rolled your eyes and ran your fingers through his hair. You were mindful of his horns but he seemed pretty eager for you to touch them,

“(Y/n).” He whined although it was muffled against your ample chest, “Why do pirates have to fuck everything up?”

“What are you on about Schlatt? No one likes pirates.”

“They’re gonna take you away from me, sugar. You’re my safe space, this tavern is my safe space.” You sighed listening to his drunken ramblings, you grabbed his horns and pulled him away from your chest.

“This is my life Schlatt, I’m not going anywhere trust me. Plus my family is here, they need me. So try not to worry okay?” You slicked back the hair on his forehead before planting a fond kiss there, everyone in the tavern narrowed their eyes at the scene. Even your girls were green with envy, at the sight of their lovely boss kissing someone who wasn’t them. He leaned against your lips eyes fluttering closed,

“Well, well, well if it isn’t Captian Schlatt? Or ex-captain if I remember correctly.”

“What?”

You turned your head and felt Schlatt’s arms wrap around your waist and held you close to his chest. The touch was protective and you felt your heart skip a beat, why was he protecting you, and why did you actually feel protected?

“Has the drinking finally caught up to you? Or was it the fact that you lost your so-”

Was that Dream's voice?

“Shut the fuck up.” He snarled and you were shoved behind him into Quackity’s arms, you felt less protected. “I’m not that person anymore and you fucking know that,” Vendetta came to stand beside the both of you a hand was placed on your shoulder protectively. You knew she was desperately wanted to step in and you held up a hand to stop her.

“This isn’t good…” Quackity murmured, “They’re going to fight. Schlatt’s going to get himself fucking killed.”

“Calm yourself. We won’t let it get that far.” Ven grumbled eyeing you waiting for your signal. But you were lost in the conversation or argument, the two were having, you couldn’t believe Schlatt was a pirate. He was so...he just didn’t...he was a drunk okay? That didn’t exactly shout feared pirate to you!

“Oh, are you sure? I remember that look, that’s the look you’d get before you stomped someone’s lights out. No wonder your son disappeared under mysterious circumstances-” Dream was shoved against one of the poles holding up the building. He grunted and Schlatt’s arm was pulled back ready to punch, but his arm was stopped by smaller hands,

“Pardon me Mr. Schlatt but you know how we feel about fighting in our tavern.” Addie bubbled, she had a smile on her face but it wasn’t kind, it was full of warning.

“Get the fuck off me, sheepie. This doesn’t fucking concern you.” Schlatt shoved her away and as soon as his skin made contact with her body he made a sound of distress.

“(Y/n)...” Addie murmured quietly, your father’s dagger was embedded in Schlatt’s arm,

“Fucking hell you bitch!” He snarled baring his teeth, you glared at him twisting the dagger he yelled in agony.

“Touch one of my girls again and next time this dagger is going right into your back.” You ripped the dagger out, splattering the floor with blood. He grabbed his arm tightly and looked at you with slight betrayal in his yellow eyes. “I mean it Schlatt, Quackity take him home.” The man nodded looking at you longingly, he muttered a quiet ‘Sorry’ before escorting him out of your tavern. “You,” You glared harshly over at Dream, “Go to your room.”

“You’re not my mother.”

“Then find another play to stay.” You spat, he turned away and you looked over at Addie, “Are you alright?” Your voice turned tender as you cupped her cheeks. She nuzzled against your palms and nodded her head,

“I’m fine. You didn’t need to-”

“Yes, I did. No one messes with you. With any of you on my watch.”

The sheep hybrid made a little sound as her bottom lip trembled, she wrapped you in a tight hug which you accepted without hesitance. Judas walked over next and wrapped you both in her arms, pretty soon you were surrounded by your girls and Zig.

All of them had the same mindset: comforting both you and Addie.

It was good to be loved.

Wilbur watched the scene curiously and glanced over at Technoblade who stood up from his chair.

“I think that’s our cue to leave for the night.” He looked over at his first mate, Wilbur nodded in agreement grabbing his guitar from the chair beside Technoblade.

“They...Techno were they talking about Tubbo.” Tommy whispered to his brother, his brow furrowing in concern as they all climbed the steps up to their room, “You don’t think-”

“It just might be Tommy.” Technoblade tilted his head to the side, “Guess that’ll be something we ask him when we get back to the ship tomorrow.”

“Well, this trip is going to be way more fun than I thought.” Wilbur snickered lighting a cigarette, taking a long drag, before letting the smoke curl out of his mouth and up into the rafters. ~~~

Tag List: @v01dw4lk3rz, @jam-bombs, @abovenyx, @glitterydigitalart, @phoenixaesthetic19, @luluwinchester, @boiled-onionrings, @pastelmoonwitche, @roxy3457, @alovestruck-fool, @victory-is-here, @mack4676, @fiorenc, @theoneandonlyyeti, @bloodrose0723, @sandyy-woo,

#dream smp x y/n #dreamsmp x reader #dreamsmp drabbles #dreamsmp x you #mcyt x y/n #mcyt drabbles #mcyt x reader #mcyt x you #dsmp x reader #dsmp x you #dsmp x y/n #x reader #minecraft fanfiction #fanfiction #fanfic #pirate au #technoblade x you #techno x you #technoblade imagines #technoblade x reader #techno x y/n #technoblade x y/n #dream x reader #dream x y/n #dream x you #sapnap x reader #sapnap x y/n #sapnap x you #wilbur x reader #wilbur x y/n

[bucksfucks]

           amorosa // steve rogers

           chapter three: midnight

    chapter one // chapter two // chapter three

                    chapter four // chapter five

               ─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

                             main masterlist

summary || you wake up alone, a single note in the kitchen detailing where steve has gone. a few hours later you’re in his lavish office where he hands you a contract telling you to look over it before he takes you out to dinner. what you don’t realize is that dinner soon turns to something a little more risqué.

pairing || sugar daddy!steve x reader

word count || 2,908 words

warnings || financial struggles, sugar daddy dynamics, undefined age gap, public washroom sex, unprotected sex, heavy daddy kink, mocking, degradation, name calling, orgasm denial, blowjobs, praise kink, dirty talk — 18+ ONLY//MINORS DNI

      When you awoke the next morning you found yourself alone in your bed. The sheets were cold, though his side still smelt like Steve. You groaned as you stretched your arms above your head and your legs as far down as you could. 

     You were sore.

    Sore in the best possible way as butterflies flocked to your belly as you thought about how Steve was perfectly situated between your thighs or the way his cock filled you full. 

    You finally got the strength to get out of bed, legs slightly shaky as you grabbed your phone only to find it dead. It was plugged in and forgotten soon after as you started on a pot of coffee. 

    Your eyes caught sight of a note neatly placed on your small kitchen table, coming closer to inspect the neat writing over it. 

    Had to run to work, last night was everything and more. Give me a call when you see this. xx 

    Steve (678-136-7092)

    You smiled, as old-fashioned as a note might be, it made you feel warm inside as you impatiently waited for your phone to charge. It was only ten in the morning, you were sure he could wait just a little longer. 

    Your peace was soon disturbed by loud, incessant knocking at your front door that startled you, making you jump. You barely had time to set the piece of paper down before an envelope slipped under your door. 

    Grabbing it and quickly tearing it open you couldn't believe your eyes. 

    An eviction notice? 

    You groaned, rolling your eyes in disbelief as you shot daggers at your front door where your landlord was surely standing not even minutes ago. Still, you shook your head, tossing the notice onto your table before grabbing Steve's note and hoping your phone had enough juice to turn on. 

    Your day seemed to be turning up as it flashed on, a small victory as you quickly punched in Steve's number, turning speakerphone on as you tapped your foot waiting for him to pick up. 

    "Was startin' to think I scared you off after last night," Steve chuckled as he picked up the phone on the third ring. You playfully rolled your eyes, falling back against your bed. 

    "Scared me off? If anything you'll have trouble getting rid of me." You chid back as you heard Steve laugh followed by a click, probably an office door closing. 

    "Princess I won't be gettin' rid of you anytime soon." He said earnestly as you bit your lip trying to conceal your smile. You felt giddy, like a high schooler talking to their crush late on a Friday night. 

    "Do you think you can come down to my office this afternoon? I think we should discuss some rules." He said seriously, a twinge of professionalism coming through as your stomach flipped with nerves. 

    "Uhm yeah, sure, does one o'clock work?" You asked, sitting up to take a look at the time on the wall clock mounted right across from your bed. 

    "That's great, I'll send over a town car. See you soon, Princess." Steve said and you could hear the smirk in his voice as you stood up, feeling more confident in yourself. 

    "I'll see you later, Daddy." You nearly purred as he groaned lowly on the other end of the line, "oh I can't wait." And with that you were getting ready for your day. 

~

    Stark Towers was an impressive, daunting looking building as you stepped out of the town car Steve had sent over. The driver told you to just go to the front desk, tell them your name, and the rest would be taken care of. 

    You did just that, the petite woman behind the desk giving you a warm smile as she led you through a set of doors where you both got into a polished elevator. She hit the number 92 on the panel before you began your swift ascent. 

    The doors opened to white marble tiling, dark blue accents, and crystal clean statutes as she led you to a large set of where the name Steve Rogers, VP read in neat writing. She knocked twice before the doors were opened. 

    Steve had a hard look on his face that softened immediately as he caught sight of you. 

    "Thank you Belinda, can you prepare an all access card for her please?" He asked as she nodded her head, disappearing back into the elevator as Steve led you inside of his office. 

    He embraced you, wrapping his arms around your waist and placed a sweet kiss to your lips. 

    "I haven't stopped thinking of you," he mumbled, smiling as you played with the short hairs at the nape of his neck. He hummed, feeling the vibrations against your own chest as he leaned his forehead against yours. 

    "But as much as I'd love to take you right here, over my desk and in front of the windows, we have to set some rules." You couldn't help but whimper at his words, your arousal growing as he took a step away. 

    "Sit," it was a gentle command, and you did as you were told, taking a seat in one of the two plush chairs that were positioned right in front of his large oak desk. He leaned against the front of the desk, crossing his arms over his chest as he licked his bottom lip. 

    "I'm a man of business as you know, so," he grabbed something behind him, "there is a short contract." 

    You narrowed your eyes at the paper, extending your arm wordlessly as he gave it over to you. You skimmed over the first few paragraphs, noting how there were four pages total before you glanced at where he had already placed his signature. 

    "You signed already?" You asked, a little puzzled as he chuckled, "this is something I'm confident in." Steve shrugged, pushing himself off the desk and placing both of his hands on either side of your chair. 

    "Take your time, I don't need an answer right away." He says sweetly, his body towering over yours and the only thing you can think of is how much bigger he felt as he was on top of you last night. 

    You nodded your head slowly, swallowing thickly as he straightened his posture. He was so tall and broad and you had to stop thinking of him like that. At least for right now. 

    "I'll take a look at it tonight," you replied as he smiled, "good girl." 

    The praise sent another shiver down your spine as you watched him lick his bottom lip, he knew what he was doing to you, was this a test? 

    "Let's have dinner tomorrow, same time, different place? You can ask any questions you have pertaining to the contract, how's that sound?" You nodded your head again as Steve spoke. 

    "That sounds good." You told him with a smile as he extended his hand for you to take, he helped you up before his arms were around your waist again, lips against yours before his hands travelled down to your ass. 

    "Good girl, maybe this time you can skip the panties?" He purrs against your neck, his lips already nipping at your exposed collarbones as you feel him stiffen against your hip. You gasp, nodding your head, "o-okay." 

    "Okay who?" Steve eggs, "o-okay, Daddy," you whisper, biting your lip as he slowly rocks your hips against his. 

    You're just able to get your hand on the outline of his cock as his intercom buzzes, "Mr. Rogers, your one-thirty is here, should I send him in?" A woman's voice interrupts the two of you as Steve groans, rolling his eyes. 

    He hits a button on his desk harshly, "give me five minutes." 

    You reluctantly step away from him, taking in the bulge in his pants, wet lips, and slightly mused hair. 

    "I'm sorry Princess, Daddy's gotta work," he winked, readjusting himself as you gave him a small pout. He cooed at you, pressing a kiss to your forehead, "don't pout, if you're good maybe you'll get a surprise or two tonight." Steve promises as your eyes light up at his words.  

    "Now be a good girl, okay?" He says, giving your bum a pinch as he leads your out of his office, pressing the button on his elevator. 

    "Stop at the front desk on your way out and pick up your access key, okay? And text me when you get home, the car's out front for you." Steve says as you nod, clutching the contract tightly in your hands. 

    He presses a chaste kiss to your cheek before the elevator doors close leaving you alone to your thoughts. 

~

    You sat in your dimly illuminated kitchen, Netflix playing softly in the background as a cooling cup of tea was at your side. The contract was in front of you as you tapped your pen against it. 

    Clause 1.0: You will attend all events asked by Steve Rogers assuming he gives you enough time in advance. 

    That seemed fair, not like you were about to turn down anymore fancy dinners or a trip to the Alps. 

    Clause 2.0: In return, Steve Rogers will take care of and pay all bills. Any extra cash needed will be provided. 

    2.1: A credit card with a limit will be available at any time

    You stared at the words, it almost seemed too good to be true. You'd struggled with money nearly all your life and for Steve to just take all those troubles away? 

    Clause 3.0: This is a monogamous, exclusive relationship where no third party shall be involved unless each party involved agrees. 

    No problem there. 

    Clause 4.0: Transportation and housing will be provided through Steve Rogers. 

    As your eyes scanned through each clause you felt yourself getting antsy, wanting to see Steve again as you chewed on your lip. 

    You got to the final clause, skimming it over. 

    Clause 10.0: You are to refer to Steve Rogers as Daddy unless specified otherwise. 

    Your stomach flipped, thighs burning as you longed to feel the weight of his cock between your legs. You wanted to sign the damn thing right then and there, but you capped the pen, sliding the contract up the table before hopping into the shower. 

    Tomorrow would be interesting. 

~

    Steve had chosen an equally fancy restaurant, you expected nothing less as you walked through the glass doors, led to the table where Steve was waiting for you, phone to his ear as he caught sight of you. 

    You were wearing the only form fitting dress you owned, but it clung to you like a second skin and you could see his eyes darken as he cut whoever was on the phone by hanging up on them without a second thought. 

    "Christ, Princess," he groaned in your ear as he enveloped you, "you tryin' to give me a heart attack?" He smirked, taking your head and letting you spin around as you giggled. 

    "Only the best for you, Daddy." You purred, watching as his jaw clenched. You slid into the seat, Steve climbing in beside you in the booth before his hand was instinctively on your thigh. 

    Two menus are placed in front of you, the waiter pouring two glasses of water as you skim through the pages. 

    "I have something for you," you whisper, grabbing the folded contract out of your purse, handing it to Steve as he looks at you darkly. 

    He looks through it, noting the signature as he shoves it into his blazer pocket. 

    "It's all official now, Princess," he purrs, tilting your chin upwards with his index finger so you're looking up at him. You can feel the heat coming off of his body, the warmth of his finger under your chin causes you to shiver as his lips hover over yours, "meet me in the bathrooms in three minutes." 

    With that, Steve slipped out of the booth and gave you one last glance over his shoulder before disappearing from sight. Your heart was racing, nearly beating out of your chest as you tapped your fingers on the table before deciding fuck it and slinking away to the bathroom. 

    Steve was leaning against the wall, foot against the wall as he cocked his head to the side. 

    "There's my best girl," he said, extending his hand before pushing you both through the threshold of the toilets. 

    The door was locked seconds later, Steve whipping around to pin you against the sinks. 

    "Princess do you have any idea how hard it's been to keep my mind off of you? When I've had you writhing under me, my cock deep inside of you as I fucked you senseless?" His words were a low growl in your ear as you gasped. 

    "Daddy, fuck, I-I need you." You mewled, pouting and nearly begging him up you looked up at him through your lashes. 

    "Love hearin' you beg for my cock, Princess." He growls, hand snaking behind your neck as he kisses you roughly. It's teeth and tongue as he nips at your lower lip, tugging it before he's shoving his thick thigh between your legs. 

    You gasp at the contact, his hard flesh meeting your core as jolts of electricity run through you. You can barely keep your eyes open as his mouth is sucking right below your ear, his coarse beard tickling at your skin. 

    "Grind yourself over my thigh, Princess. Wanna watch as you ride it." He whispers darkly into your ear. You're shamelessly grinding yourself over his thigh as his hands go to palm your breasts through your dress. 

    It feels quick and dirty, but it's exactly what you need. 

    "Fuck, Daddy, want your cock." You whimper before he's stopping all movements to grab your chin and force you to look up at him. 

    "Oh is my dumb baby already so desperate for my cock, hmm? Then get on your knees and open that pretty mouth of yours." It's a simple command, your breath getting caught in your throat as you're pushed down onto the cool tiling of the bathroom floor. 

    You watch as he undoes his belt, bulge meeting your eyes before he's freeing his cock. 

    "Go on, Princess. Put that sweet mouth of yours to work," he purrs, running his thumb over your bottom lip as you wrap your hand around his base. 

    You pump him slowly, eyes watching him as he lets out a low groan, throwing his head back when you wrap your lips around his tip. 

    You can taste the salty pre-cum as you take him further, slowly relaxing your throat before hollowing your cheeks as you bob your head. 

    "Oh fuck—what a good little girl, look so pretty with Daddy's cock in your mouth Princess." He praises, your arousal growing as you feel your panties get wetter as you take him further. 

    Steve's gripping the edge of the counter as he lets his head fall forward. Your saliva coats his cock, your hands, and your chin as you moan around him. Steve's low grunts and groans fill the echoey bathroom before he's pulling his cock out of your mouth. 

    "Up. Now." And there's a sense of urgency in his voice that you've never heard before. 

    You do as you're told, Steve lifting you onto the counter and hiking your dress up, sneering when he finds you wearing panties. 

    "What did I tell you about panties, Princess?" It's a condescending tone as your head falls forward. He's pinching each cheek with his fingers as he makes you look up at him.

    "Good girls get rewards," he speaks, "but bad, bratty girls don't get to cum." He growls, ripping your panties off as you squeak. 

    He's plunging his cock into you seconds later, the action causing your body to jolt upwards. Steve is merciless in his thrusts as he keeps your body locked with his, your legs wrapped around his torso as he clamps his hand around your mouth to keep you quiet. 

    "My dumb little baby, couldn't even listen to simple instructions," he grunts, "God your pussy feels so good wrapped 'round me, Princess."

    You can feel the coil starting to form, the pressure building as your toes curl inside of your shoes and you want nothing more than to chant more, more, more. 

    "I know you wanna cum, baby, I can feel you squeezin' me," he whispers huskily, a dark smirk on his lips. 

    "If only you had listened to your Daddy," he almost snickers as he pulls out, fisting his cock until he's painting your thighs with his cum. It makes you shudder, watching him cum, feeling him cum, as he makes you watch. 

    He's breathing heavy, panting nearly as he drops his hand and kisses each cheek lightly before sealing his lips over yours. 

    "Let's get you all cleaned up, Sweetheart." Steve's tone has changed, now sweet and caring as he takes care of the mess he's made. You let, relishing in the gentle touches before he's helping you down from the sink and back onto your feet. 

    You pout when you meet his eyes again and he taps your nose, "don't give me that look, Princess." He warms playfully before you're making a hmph sound that makes him chuckle. 

    "How about I take you back to mine, we'll order in tonight, though what I want a taste of isn't exactly on anyone's menu."

tagging // @jennmurawski13​ | @nakedrogers​ | @vollzeitliebe​ | @kelbabyblue​ | @jevans2​ | @babyyhoneyydarling​ | @rogerslovesstark​  

any and all feedback is always appreciated! <3

#steve rogers smut #steve rogers x reader #steve rogers x reader smut #sugar daddy!steve #steve rogers headcanon #steve rogers headcanons #steve rogers au #steve rogers oneshot #steve rogers fanfic #steve rogers fic #steve rogers fanfiction #steve rogers series #steve rogers x you #steve rogers x you smut

[searchingwardrobes]

Not the Type - 6/8

Finally! A new update :) Sorry for the delay, but the muse has been fickle as of late. In this chapter, Emma has her first competition of the season, and it's psyching her out. Will Killian be her encouragement, or will she push him away in the midst of it all? This chapter includes another iconic scene from the movie, when Torrance dances around her room to Cliff's song. I wanted to use the actual lyrics to the song, but in looking at it, there were a few lines that bothered me. One literally says "I'd bring you flowers every day just to roll you in the hay." And then there's a constant refrain that says "I'll make you mine." Those lines just don't seem to jive for me with Killian's character when in canon he specifically tells David that he doesn't see Emma as loot and tells Emma that he will win her heart, but not through any trickery. We know he isn't the kind of guy to give a woman flowers in order to manipulate her into sleeping with him. We also know how much agency means to him, so I didn't think telling Emma in song "I'll make you mine" fit either. Anyways, that's a long way of explaining that the lyrics are 99% like the ones in the movie, minus those two parts.

Massive thanks to my beta, @hookedonapirate who takes my confusing sentences and makes them sound purty ;) You’re the best! And thanks also to the @captainswanmoviemarathon​ for putting together this event and being massively supportive and patient. 

Summary: Emma Swan first notices him in the stands at the Friday night football game. She can tell right away Killian Jones is not the football type. Then again, she’s not the cheerleader type either, but here she is with pom poms. Life hasn’t ever gone the way Emma planned. Lately, that’s actually been a good thing. Maybe Killian Jones is a good thing, too.

My loose Captain Swan AU of the movie Bring it On

Rated: T

Also on Ao3

Tagging: @kmomof4  @snowbellewells @whimsicallyenchantedrose @xhookswenchx @teamhook @let-it-raines @winterbythesea @spartanguard @shireness-says @superchocovian @thesschesthair @resident-of-storybrooke @vvbooklady1256 @hookedonapirate @ultraluckycatnd @hollyethecurious @welllpthisishappening @wellhellotragic @bethacaciakay @optomisticgirl @lfh1226-linda @ilovemesomekillianjones @ekr032-blog-blog @itsfabianadocarmo @profdanglaisstuff @thisonesatellite @winterbaby89 @tiganasummertree @xsajx @jennjenn615 @zaharadessert @stahlop @scientificapricot @thislassishooked @kday426 @ultraluckycatnd @carpedzem @ohmakemeahercules @branlovestowrite @delirious-latenight-laughs @jennjenn615 @snidgetsafan @lassluna​

The room was thick with hair spray, and Emma and the rest of the Storybrooke Knights Cheerleaders were sucking on orange slices. Except for Ruby who was touching up her blood red lipstick in front of one of the mirrors propped up on the classroom’s smart board. 

“I think they’re red enough already, Ruby,” Coach Ava remarked as she sprayed more Aquanet all over her daughter’s hair. MM was having to wear a hair extension so she didn’t look out of place with their “hair” theme, and Coach was paranoid it was going to go flying across the gym floor during their routine. Emma wasn’t sure hairspray worked that way, but she wasn’t about to say so. 

Ruby smacked her lips together with a loud pop. “The redder the better, I say. I want them to see my smile.”

She turned to the rest of the group and flashed a toothy grin. They all laughed, and Belle grimaced. 

“More like a predator about to devour her prey.”

Ruby winked at Belle and growled, resulting in more laughter. Coach Ava rolled her eyes as she capped the hairspray. “Just don’t get it all over your teeth, okay Lucas?”

“No worries, Coach, it’s that long-lasting stuff that isn’t supposed to come off.”

“So why did you need fifty coats?” Tiana quipped.

They were all still laughing when a woman wearing a t-shirt that read, East Maybrook Invitational and holding an ipad poked her head into the classroom. “Storybrooke High in the hole!”

The girls all stood, gathering up their things, tossing orange peels into the trash bins and giving their hair and make up one last glance in the mirror. They followed the woman in the official t-shirt down two hallways to East Maybrook High’s cafeteria where cheer mats had been set up in the same configuration as on the performance floor. The girls took their places as if they were really performing, and marked out the routine while Coach Ava counted out the beats. If something went wrong with the music, they would have to keep going. They only pantomimed doing the stunts, however, not wanting to risk a last minute injury. 

After running through the routine, a nervous silence fell among them. Some girls stretched, others did a few jumps, or even a back handspring. Anything to handle their nervous energy. Emma bounced on the balls of her feet, heart pounding in her chest more than usual. A phone call had followed the letter: someone from the UK cheer staff would be in the stands today. 

And she still hadn’t told her friends about it.

“Storybrooke High on deck!” 

The girls gave each other nervous glances and clasped hands in little groups as they followed the woman out of the cafeteria doors. Emma had Ruby on her left and Mary Margaret on her right, their arms threaded together. For once, Ruby was quiet. 

As they neared the gym, the girls could hear the familiar sounds of competition: loud music, an announcer's voice, shouts as the audience cheered for the cheerleaders for once. It made the adrenaline pump even harder. It usually was at this moment that Emma went into her competitive “zone” where everything around her went fuzzy and her mind became laser focused on the routine and what she had to do. Today, however, she felt like she was on sensory overload, unable to turn off all the sights, sounds, and smells around her. 

Before she could even process everything, Storybrooke was being announced to the crowd. Emma ran out onto the floor with a huge smile, cheers, and fist pumps for the crowd, but it felt like she was outside of herself, watching. She took her place on the floor, standing in prep, her arms straight at her sides and her head down. Her fists were clenched, and she tried to control the nervous tremors coursing through her as she waited for their music to start. 

A synth-pop remix of “Hair” from the Broadway musical started to play, and the Storybrooke Knights whipped their ponytails as they started their back handspring/back tuck peel-offs. Coach Ava always said that the music needed to appeal to every generation represented in the judge’s panel as well as the crowd, and as Emma flawlessly landed her tumbling pass to roaring applause, she saw the two boomer judges smiling and bopping to the music. 

She reprimanded herself for looking at the judges as she jogged across the floor for her next tumbling pass. Nevertheless, she scanned the crowd just before she started her pass, wondering where that UK recruiter was. It was the most difficult pass in the entire routine: a back handspring into an arabian, then a double whip into a full twisting double back. She hesitated, stumbling, before getting started because of her distraction, and by the time she did her second whip, she had a sinking feeling. Sure enough, when she landed her double back, she was way out of bounds. She didn’t need the loud buzzer from the line judge to alert her to the fact. She gritted her teeth in frustration, but then remembered to fake a smile as she got into the dance formation. Her face ached from her forced smile as she swung her hips to the rhythm of “Whip My Hair.”

Emma’s next mistake came in the squad’s first pyramid. It felt like she had a weight attached to her ankle, and she couldn’t lift her leg as high as she normally did to connect to Mary Margaret’s stunt group to her left. She almost lost her balance completely, but Ruby compensated and saved it. Mary Margaret didn’t falter either, thank God. Emma was practically shaking as she went into the twist up stunt - her nemesis in this routine. Kelly Rowland singing “Crown” as Emma popped up, her hand grasping her ponytail, helped her power through, as cheesy as it sounded. 

Despite the mistakes Emma was berating herself for, the crowd was going crazy for the combination of the theme, the music, and the cool tricks. By the end, the entire gymnasium was on its feet with thunderous applause. Emma ended the routine seated on the mat, back to the audience with her head flung back. Since she saw them all upside down, she couldn’t pick out her family or anyone in Kentucky blue. 

Ruby yanked Emma to her feet, screaming loud enough to shatter her eardrums. Mary Margaret and Ariel sandwiched her in a hug, and then they were swept away by the rest of their ecstatic teammates. 

“Amazing job, girls!” Coach Ava praised, gathering them in a big, squirming, awkward group hug. “Mary Margaret didn’t even lose her hair!’’

They all laughed giddily, except for Emma. Her mind was reeling. “I went out of bounds,” she confessed.

Coach Ava waved off her words. “It’s our first competition. It’s normal for there to be kinks to work out. Let’s not worry about that until the next practice, though. For now, let’s just celebrate a solid opening for the season.”

Her teammates seemed to all be in agreement, and so did the judges, awarding The Storybrooke Knights with a third place finish. It wasn’t their best opening - that had been last year’s first place trophy to kick off the season - but making the top three was the goal of every top squad right out of the gate. Even the UK recruiter had congratulated her on a solid routine.

“I could see the nerves a bit,” she told Emma, her smile kind and reassuring, “but the level of tumbling skill you possess is rare. Top five I’ve seen so far, no doubt about it. We’ll definitely be in touch.”

Emma, however, couldn’t shake the feeling of failure that clung to her. 

“I’m blown away, Swan, that was amazing!”

Emma was in Killian’s arms before she could even register that he’d rushed out of the bleachers and onto the floor to greet her. He brushed a kiss to her cheek and deposited a bouquet of white daisies into her arms. 

“It wasn’t amazing,” Emma whispered, staring down at the white flowers. 

“Come now, don’t be modest.” Killian’s grin conveyed giddy pride in her which she found inexplicably annoying. 

“I stepped out of bounds on my big tumbling pass, I almost took down our first pyramid, and I was shaky on every single stunt!”

Killian’s eyes narrowed. “Your team doesn’t seem put out with you.”

Emma rolled her eyes. “They’re being nice. If we hadn’t placed, it would have been a different story. It would have all been my fault.”

“Whatever happened to the whole we win as a team, we fail as a team thing?”

“My team relies on me keeping my head on straight!” Her voice had risen, and she slashed the air with the bouquet of flowers. White petals fluttered to the gym floor. 

Killian cocked his head and studied her. “What’s going on in that head of yours?”

“Nothing!”

“It’s something, Swan.” 

He stepped forward, reaching for her, but she stepped out of his reach. 

“I just let everyone down, but no one will be straight with me. Why can’t you all just admit I screwed up today?”

Killian shook his head. “I don’t think you’re seeing things clearly. I saw an amazingly talented athlete today, Swan. You were amazing.”

Emma rolled her eyes. “Yeah, right. Of course you’d say that. You’re a high school guy. You’ll say anything you have to to get in a cheerleader’s panties.”

Killian’s eyes widened and his head jerked back as if she’d slapped him. “You really think so little of me?”

She tilted her chin. “I’m no fool. Did you think tonight would be the night? Show up to my little competition, compliment me, throw in some flowers, and I’d spread my legs for you?”

Killian backed away, his jaw clenching, nostrils flaring. “I’m going to assume you don’t mean any of that, Emma, so I’m walking away before either of us can say anything we might regret.”

“Fine!” she yelled as he turned and walked toward the gym doors. “Walk away! That’s what every guy does when a girl won’t put out.” She threw the flowers at his retreating form. She watched the white petals swirl through the air and the green stems hit the parquet floor with a soft swish and crinkle of cellophane wrapper. 

“Emma!”

She whirled around to see Ruth standing there, frown upon her face and her brow furrowed. David stood next to her, his arms crossed in disapproval. Nearby a cluster of her teammates stared as if she’d morphed into some mythological creature with two heads. Her face burned as she realized how loudly she’d yelled at her boyfriend. 

Probably ex-boyfriend now. 

Humiliated, she turned and fled, fingers pressed to her flaming cheeks. 

*********************************************

“Go away,” Emma muttered into her pillow.

“What if I were Mom with a plate of brownies?”

Emma grabbed a teddy bear, clutching two tiny red pom poms (a gift from Ruth after last year’s state championship win), and smacked her brother in the head with it. She glared at him through one eye, the rest of her face still smashed into the pillow. 

“I knew it was you because you crashed down on my bed hard enough to catapult me out the window. Ruth’s more subtle.”

David just laughed as he rubbed at his cheek where the bear had met his face. 

“Go away,” she repeated, turning her face fully into the pillow again.

“You left your phone downstairs.”

“So?”

“So, you have like fifty text messages and thirty missed calls.”

Emma rolled over, still clutching her pillow to her chest. “Well, he’s persistent, I’ll give him that.”

“It wasn’t just Killian. Your entire team is worried about you.”

“Because I choked?”

“Because you're delusional,” David shot back with equal parts humor and frustration. “You didn’t choke. You didn’t let any of us down. You didn’t give a lousy performance, or any of a thousand other ridiculous claims you’ve made in the past few hours.”

Emma turned to look at her brother. “I made mistakes, David.”

He shrugged. “Who doesn’t? It was one competition, Emma, not the Olympics. It wasn’t even the state championships or regionals. One. Competition. At some tiny high school in the middle of nowhere, Maine.”

Emma groaned as she pushed herself up to the headboard and let her head drop to David’s shoulder. He put his arm around her and pressed a kiss to her forehead. 

“Why didn’t you tell me about Kentucky?”

Emma sighed. When the recruiter had called, she insisted on speaking to Ruth as well. Emma should have known she would spill the beans to her son, especially after Emma acted like a complete lunatic. 

Yes, a delusional lunatic. Her brother wasn’t wrong. 

“I don’t know, it was just . . . a lot to process. And a lot rides on this. I mean, there aren’t any football recruiters looking at you, which means college is gonna be expensive, Mr. Quarterback. If my tuition is taken care of, Ruth can just worry about you.”

“I could get other scholarships.”

“You’re a white, middle class male. You aren't getting any other scholarships.”

He chuckled and poked her in the ribs. “Regardless of all that, Mom just wants what’s best for you. We’ll figure out college and the money and all that, but we’ll do it together. That’s what a family does. Okay?”

This family thing was still new for Emma, so she just nodded in agreement against David’s shoulder. 

“But speaking of Killian,” David said, waving her phone in front of her face, “some of these calls and texts are from him. He sent you a video, too. Then called me and pretty much begged me to get you to watch it, so just give him that much, okay? So he’ll leave me alone?”

Emma rolled her eyes as she took the phone. David could protest all he wanted, but she knew about the little bromance he had with her boyfriend. 

She waited until her brother went downstairs before she sat cross-legged in the center of her bed and pulled up the video from Killian. She gnawed on her bottom lip nervously before pressing “play.” 

And there Killian was, on the tiny screen, smiling like they’d never had a fight. Emma’s lips pulled up into a grin of her own. He was also holding his guitar in his lap and fidgeting.

“Hi, Emma,” he said with a nervous little wave. “You’ve been ignoring all my calls and texts, so I decided to pull out the big guns. I was gonna give this to you as a gift for like Valentine’s Day or something, but  . . . you know . . . desperate times call for desperate measures.”

He cleared his throat and shifted again, and Emma blinked back tears. She’d never seen him at such a loss for words. 

“I wrote you a song,’ he continued, “so, I’ll just shut up and sing it already.”

Emma gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as he began to strum his electric. It started 

out as a kind of slow, cheeky punk rock ballad.

Oh, Emma, I don’t get your cheerleading squad, but I love your pom-poms. I'd feed you bon-bons all night.

Then it transitioned into a full on rock song, and Killian began to shred on his guitar. He was really good, and the song had Emma bobbing her head to the music. 

1,2,3,4. Yeah, you got me to feel all those butterflies inside. In your locker I would hide. The truth, it's only you I see, and you're just what I need. I'll bring you flowers all the time in hopes that you’ll be mine. Well I'm feelin' fine, I'm right on time. I hope I’ll win your heart.

When he transitioned into the chorus, Emma leapt up from her bed. She propped her phone on her nightstand and began to dance around the room to Killian’s song.

And you're just what I need. And you're just what I need. Not everything works as it seems. Is that so hard to believe? So I went down to the record store. Picked my head up off the floor. The truth, it's only you I see. And you're just what I need. And if it's my world that you fear, let me make this very clear. Well I'm feelin' fine, I'm right on time. I hope I’ll win your heart. And you're just what I need.

The chorus repeated a couple more times, and Emma danced around her room like she hadn’t in a long time. She even grabbed an old pair of pom poms she’d gotten as a joke at the squad’s white elephant Christmas party. They were those enormous pom poms cheerleaders used to wave in the long ago days of letter sweaters and megaphones. They made a fun swishing sound as she bounced around the room to Killian’s song. 

A song he’d written for her! A song about her! If she wasn’t so giddy and happy, she would burst into tears. 

When the song ended, Emma collapsed onto her bed, panting from her ridiculous dance party and grinning ear to ear. She rolled over and grabbed her phone. She texted rapidly, her fingers trembling. 

I watched your song. 

Did you like it? 

I LOVED it!

Good. I meant every word. 

I’m sorry. 

I know. 

#cs ff #captain swan movie marathon #csmm #bring it on au #lieutenant duckling #high school au

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

August 30, 2021

Heather Cox Richardson

At 3:29 ET on August 30, 2021—early on the morning of August 31 in Afghanistan—the U.S. military mission in Afghanistan ended. It was the longest war in American history.

Among the last to come home were the 13 Americans killed in an ISIS-K attack last Thursday. They arrived at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware Sunday morning from Germany. President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, and 8 aides attended the dignified transfer between the plane and a waiting vehicle.

In the last 17 days in Afghanistan, U.S. troops evacuated more than 120,000 people, making up the largest airlift in our history. For comparison, as Jennifer Rubin of the Washington Post pointed out, the U.S. evacuated no Americans from the civil war in Yemen in 2015, and only about 167 from Libya in 2011.

While critics have suggested that America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan will hurt American credibility abroad, President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have called for combatting terrorism through financial sanctions, bombing, and drone strikes like the one they used to retaliate against ISIS-K for the attack on the Kabul airport that killed more than 160 Afghans and 13 Americans last Friday, and by strengthening democracy at home.

There is plenty of work to do on that last front.

Last week, Peter Wehner, who served in the Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush administrations, pointed out in The Atlantic that the right wing has moved to such extremism that former president Trump, whose behavior seemed so shocking in 2015 and 2016, is now being sidelined by lawmakers and pundits who are even more extreme.

Yesterday, in an event hosted by the Macon County Republican Party, Representative Madison Cawthorn (R-NC) insisted that the January 6 rioters are “political hostages” and said he wanted to “bust them out.” When someone in the audience asked “When are you going to call us to Washington again?” he said, “We are actively working on that one…. We have a few plans in motion that I can’t make public right now.” He called for removing Biden from office under the 25th Amendment and added, “when Kamala Harris inevitably screws up, we will take them down, one at a time.” He concluded by saying: “The Second Amendment was not written so that we can go hunting or we can shoot sporting clays…. The Second Amendment was written so that we can fight against tyranny.”

Increasingly, right-wing agitators are calling for violent overthrow of the government.

Today in Pennsylvania, Steve Lynch, a candidate for Northampton County executive, said: “Forget going into these school boards with freaking data. You go into these school boards to remove them. I’m going in with 20 strong men and I’m gonna give them an option—they can leave or they can be removed.”

At a protest in Santa Monica yesterday before a vote on a mask mandate, a man held a sign with the names and home addresses of each Los Angeles City Council member and said protesters would go to the homes of anyone who voted for the mandate and, if it passed, “Civil War is coming! Get your guns!”

This sort of street-level violence is known for radicalizing individuals as they get swept up in it and then later embrace the larger political arguments behind it. It also forces more reasonable individuals out of government positions as they conclude that their position on a school board, for example,  is not worth threats against their families and their lives.

Far from trying to tamp down this violence, right-wing leaders are egging it on. Tonight, on the Fox News Channel, personality Tucker Carlson told his audience that no leader had apologized for “these terrible decisions” in Afghanistan. “This can’t go on,” he said. “When leaders refuse to hold themselves accountable, over time, people revolt…. We need to change course immediately… or else the consequences will be awful.”

The images on the screen behind Carlson were of President Biden, Secretary of State Blinken, Defense Secretary Austin, and Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Milley. Carlson often tries to undermine the current leadership of the military, suggesting that he would welcome its replacement by officers he finds less objectionable.  

Republican offense may be an attempt at defense.

Today, Representative Bennie Thompson (D-MS), chair of the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, announced that the committee has demanded that 35 major communications companies preserve their records from April 1, 2020, to January 31, 2021, for people involved in the January 5 and January 6 rallies in Washington, D.C., or “potentially involved with discussions” about stopping the electoral vote count on January 6 or otherwise  “potentially involved with discussions" in planning the January 6 insurrection. According to CNN, the companies affected include cell phone giants Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Sprint. Social media companies covered under the request include Apple, Google, Facebook, Signal, Slack, YouTube, Twitch, and Twitter.

CNN reports that members of the committee have requested preservation of the records of representatives Cawthorn, Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), Jim Jordan (R-OH), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Mo Brooks (R-AL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), Jody Hice (R-GA), and Scott Perry (R-PA). They have also asked the companies to preserve the records of former president Trump; those of his children Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump; and those of his daughter-in-law Lara Trump and Don Jr.’s girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle, who worked on the campaign.

Those determined to regain control of the country from the Democrats also have to contend with continuing good news from Biden’s policies. A new study from the Center on Poverty and Social Policy at Columbia University shows that the first child tax credit payment kept 3 million children from falling below the poverty line and that the child poverty rate dropped from 15.8% in June to 11.9% in July. Coronavirus relief measures kept another 3 million children from poverty. Families are using the money to buy food and pay off debt.

The administration is also coordinating aid to the states hit hard by Hurricane Ida, which brought up to 15 inches of rain to parts of Louisiana and knocked out the state’s power grid. The administration deployed more than 3,600 employees of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, who prepared more than 3.4 million meals, millions of liters of water, more than 35,700 tarps, and roughly 200 generators in the region before the storm hit. They have moved ambulances and search and rescue teams into the area and have opened shelters. The Army Corps of Engineers has mobilized personnel to remove debris and to provide temporary roofing and housing.

The administration is shifting its focus from unilateral military might to multilateral alliances to deal with common problems. Tomorrow, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry will leave for Asia, where he will meet with leaders from Japan and then China to bolster international cooperation on climate change before the meeting of the 2021 U.N Climate Change Conference in early November.

—-

​​

Notes:

Kyle Griffin @kylegriffin1CENTCOM's Gen. McKenzie: In total, 123,000 civilians were evacuated from Afghanistan over the last 18 days.

869 Retweets3,334 Likes

August 30th 2021

Aaron Fritschner @FritschnerAt Macon County GOP event yesterday, Madison Cawthorn called January 6 rioters “political hostages,” and spoke of trying to “bust them out.” Then- Attendee: “When are you gonna call us to Washington again?" Cawthorn: “We are actively working on that one.”

4,235 Retweets7,587 Likes

August 30th 2021

https://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/cawthorn-calls-jan-6-defendants-political-hostages-muses-about-trying-to-bust-them-out

Scott MacFarlane @MacFarlaneNewsALERT:  House Select Jan 6th Committee asks 35 major communications companies (including major cell service providers, Twitter, Parler, etc) to preserve records  for "individuals  potentially involved with discussions" in planning Jan 6 Sweeping request (more)

1,408 Retweets3,875 Likes

August 30th 2021

/photo/2

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/08/30/statement-by-president-joe-biden/

https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/30/politics/fact-check-biden-dover-afghanistan-kabul/index.html

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/28/world/asia/kabul-airport-attack-isis-us-strike.html

https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/30/politics/january-6-phone-records-members-of-congress/index.html

Ron Filipkowski @RonFilipkowskiAt protest in Santa Monica today before the vote on mask-mandate, Jason Lefkowitz has the home addresses of each LA City Council member on his sign. He says they are going to the homes of whoever votes for it, and if it passes, it’s “civil war, get your guns.” From @chadloder

3,407 Retweets5,941 Likes

August 30th 2021

Andrew Lawrence @ndrew_lawrencethe most watched cable news host in america justifies a coming "revolt" unless we "change course immediately"

261 Retweets957 Likes

August 31st 2021

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/apr/01/american-civilians-yemen-left-behind

https://www.npr.org/2021/08/30/1032615984/house-panel-investigating-the-capitol-attack-orders-35-companies-to-preserve-rec

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/08/30/how-evacuation-americans-is-going/

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2021/08/radicalism-post-trump-gop/619891/

https://www.povertycenter.columbia.edu/news-internal/monthly-poverty-july-2021

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/08/30/readout-of-president-bidens-briefing-with-gulf-coast-elected-officials-on-hurricane-ida/

https://www.businessinsider.com/child-tax-credit-expansion-reduce-child-poverty-rate-research-2021-8

https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-ida-louisiana-new-orleans-c43c2c68946ceb6100c2239534c6c290

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

#extreme right wing #corrupt GOP #criminal GOP #January 6 2021 #January 6 Commission #Letters From An American #Heather Cox Richardson

[wonderofwillows2]

The Training Part 1

There were no young men who came to the resort without a sponsor. Be it a wife, a girlfriend, a sister, mother, or aunt. No young man was allowed there without a sponsor and none were allowed without meeting certain very strict criterion. Some were specific and fit into neat categories that were known as the “basic minima of entry”. For the first basic minimum no more than one man could be there for every eight women which meant there was almost always a waiting list of sponsored young men up to a month. The second was that the young man be between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one, though those over twenty were rarely taken. The third was aforementioned sponsorship and generally at least two sponsors known to the group were required though some more respected members of the group could bring another. The fourth was that the young man must be circumcised prior to getting to resort with enough time to heal and be ready for intercourse.

There were also the three more abstract criterion. The first of these was that a young man must be physically attractive both in the body and face and have hygiene befitting his qualities. He was to be judged by a panel and if they found his physical features attractive enough he could join, if he was deemed near enough, he would be given three months to correct whatever issue as best he could. Allowances were made for small things like acne that a young man might not perfectly control. Most often it was simply that a young man was expected to become more fit or to simply improves his grooming. There were generally few who fell into this category.

The second was that the young man should be of some intelligence, he had be able to understand instructions given and, he had to understand the deeper relevance of them. He would have to be able to understand the lessons and mantras repeated on a daily basis. There would be plenty to learn for those impressionable young men who were taken there and it was important to know the lessons would become ingrained though the indoctrination those young men would receive. Few young men who left would have said that it did not leave an impression on them.

The third was personality and more broadly speaking social skills. The young men had to posses those requisite social skills to at least avoid being boring to the women of the resort and to be able to pick up some minimum of the women’s emotions and desires. Of course this was not a hard thresh hold as young men were to be further educated in these skills. Indeed most of the women there were eager to teach the men who came there how to further anticipate a woman’s needs. Some even took it to the point of being like a sport or challenge. To see how much they could spur a young man to further development in this category. They would show off to one another how well their charges and students could read their body language and the inflections of their voices and how thoroughly and eagerly they responded.

The brings us to to Victor, a handsome young man of Russian-Canadian origin who lived Toronto where his father and mother had settled and become firmly middle class. He was tall, about 6’1” but perhaps just a bit more with a lithe frame and with some musculature though he was by no means one gifted to be a true athlete. His features were fine and sharp with a pale complexion and fine blond hair. He had a well sculpted face and though not at all feminine he was not what one would call overly masculine. He turned eighteen early in his senior year and this had bought him some initial popularity as he could buy alcohol but that soon waned. He had always been shy and so it surprised him one day when hi sister called him in the first week of October from university to tell him she had helped to arrange a surprise and that a friend of his, Priya, had set up the very idea. He was to travel with them in one week, to see small resort several hours north.

Priya and he had been friends since they met eight years prior when she came to his elementary school. She was outspoken and intelligent and the two had bonded immediately though they contrasted in many ways. Physically she was petite and feminine in every way with no androgyny to speak of. Her complexion a fine color like that of cinnamon. She was outspoken and vigorous about stating her opinions and able to talk to anyone with ease I contrast to Victor who was sometimes shy. Yet they were able to form a bond in terms of being older than their respective classmates, though not by much, as well as being from immigrant families and speaking different languages.

The idea came as a shock to Victor but he was certainly open to it. His sister, Any, had always been supportive of her younger brother and despite an age difference of four years he always felt that he could come to her for advice in comfort and ease. One would be hard pressed not to assume they were related by looking at them as they shared some physical features though Anna was the more practical and wished to be a researcher while victor pursued softer studies. He hoped one day to be a human rights lawyer and Anna was the only one in full support of this. His father and mother thought he ought to go for the highest paid position and not pursue lofty ambitions. After all this is how they had overcome their initial poverty.

The week passed an Victor was excited to see his older sister once more. He had asked Priya about the details of the trip though she had been reluctant to share too much. She had told he conservative parents she was going with a girlfriend and suggested that he find a suitable person to use as an alibi as well. It would be fun she was sure but she did not want to arouse suspicions in their school nor to raise alarms about the seemingly odd group going. Since unattached straight men are usually not invited on trips with women whom they are not seeing intimately. Nor was it at all usual that his older sister was going. However none of them were bothered by this, all of them knew each other too well for that. Sometimes the assumptions of others are off base. In this case though expectations would indeed conflict with reality.

When Friday night of the next weekend came Victor hugged his parents goodbye before descending the steps of the house to the waiting car below. Priya and his friend Paul were in front and Victor got in the back with his small backpack. His parents warned him to be aware of bears and be careful one last time and then they waved the small group off. It was not three blocks before they dropped off Paul and changed the GPS to the coordinates of his sister’s school. It would be an hour before they even got there and then another three to the cabin. It would be a remote place for certain and cold this time of year, there would likely be frost. Eventually they reached the apartment near his sister’s campus. The sun was beginning to set and the sky had turned a variety of beautiful and fiery colors. They would soon be in wild lands. They called and waited and in a few minutes Anna appeared closing the door with grace and nearly bounding down the steps with a smile on her pale face. She dropped her bag into the trunk and then took her place in the back seat. Pleasantries were exchanged and short laughs were had.

The group set off in the now near darkness. Victor was having one of the most pleasant times that he could remember as they chatted in the car and share old memories. Priya and Anna having many to share themselves with Anna being like an older sister to Priya as well in many ways. Priya was the oldest in her house too and of course was often in need of advice when she was younger, about boys, makeup, or the life in Canada her parents were reticent to teach her off. They knew each other well and their friendship had grown from a the role of mentor and student to a more genuine and equal footing.

It was past nine when they arrived at side road leading down a path which terminated in a large packed earth parking lot and a small set of beautiful and carefully made wooden buildings with a set of four small cabins. Priya steered the care to the left into the parking lot and then up to the main building. Stopping the car she turns the keys and stops the engine.

“I’ll just be a few minutes, I need to check us in and get the keys before we can go the cabin” Priya anounced with a small smile before opening the door and departing into the cold night.

“So in all seriousness, Anna, what prompted this trip?” Asked victor.

“In all seriousness I just felt the need to get away. We just had a round of exams and I wanted to let off some stress and see people I knew well. We all need comfort.

“That is true. I actually came along partly to see you, we haven’t talked in a while and I am sorry for that.”

“It’s ok, I am sure you are busy at school. Have you met any girls?”

“I know them all at this point I think. I really only talk to Priya.”

“Do you still mostly hang out with Paul, Kendrick, and Mit?”

“For the most part yes.”

“How are things with you and Vanessa, are you still fighting?”

“No, we patched...”

The car door opens interrupting and Priya returns with the keys.

“I’m back it’s cabin number four.” She presents the cabin key before starting the car and then engaging it. She backs out of the parking space and drive parallel to large main building before making a left and then a right and parking in front of raised wooden cabin with small windows and a propane tank beside it.

“We’re here she announces and turns off the car. The group exits, each stretching upon their immediate exit. Priya and Victor walk around to the trunk while Anna grabs her articles from the seat beside her in the rear of the car. Finished with unloading the group climbs the stairs and approaches a beautifully finished door made of thick planks of wood.

“I can’t believe we got this for such a price” Victor muses.

Priya unlocks the door and they enter the cabin. It is a cozy space but more than suitable for four and lightly decorated with the beauty and finish of the construction materials playing the main role in the aesthetic. There is a small wood stove on one side and s small gas stove next to it giving choice to the renters. On each side of the main room are two sets of beds with bunk pressed against the wall on the right where the wood stove allows more room. Past the gas stove on the left is a small bathroom with a toilet sink and shower. The general amenities of civilization all seem present in the small retreat. It’s warm inside as the heat was left on for them. They pick their beds and with the ample choice there is no difficulty, the women choose the beds on the left and Victor picks the right. They each take their turns bathing and changing into night clothes and Priya turns up the heat to allow for the light bedclothes she packed.

A bottle of wine is opened and shared among them while they talk of old times and laugh while reminiscing. They talk about the time Priya developed a deep crush on her math teacher. They talk about Victor’s infatuation with skateboarding when he was younger and his broken ankle. They finish with more pleasant stories as they finish the bottle and then brush their teeth and turn in to sleep. They all sleep soundly after being thoroughly exhausted by the day and the enjoyment of each other’s company. They awake in the morning and Priya announced that there is a free breakfast the first day. So they dress in the bathroom and depart to the main building, walking down the bumpy earthen path and ascend the flight of stairs opening the main door. A young woman in her twenties with a plump frame attends the desk. Priya talks to her and hands her some papers and the young woman directs them to the left hand hallways. They walk up a short amount of stair and see two rooms. Priya indicated that they should head to the send and they do. She claims they should be seated and make small talk while they wait. Suddenly they are interrupted by three women.

���Is this the one one?” A tall and strongly featured woman asks them.

“Yes it’s him. Victor my little brother.” Anna answers smiling from ear to ear. One of the women makes a note on a small clipboard.

“What is this?” asked the poor, confused victor.

“It’s just something we arranged for you.” said Priya with a smile.

“I don’t understand, is this like an intervention? You both know I never do anything.”

“We know Vic. But this isn’t about that, imagine it as a different kind of intervention. You see we both know the lessons you got from mom and dad growing up and we think that a bit of modernity might help you. It might help you loose your virginity too.”

“You tokd her?” Victor turns to Priya with a hurt expression.

“I knew Victor.” Anna assures him

“pleasure just trust us.”Priya assures him and places her hand on his shoulder.

“Is this a brothel did you hire a prostitute for me.” Victor asks.

Priya laughs and shakes her head at him and Anna smiles knowingly. The other women seem to be amused as well and one lets out a small giggle.

“No it’s not that.” Priya assures him.

“Just trust us. It’s more of a workshop on social skills” Anna assures him.

“Alright I’ll trust you for now.” Victor says, still nervous.

“Don’t worry your sister is mostly right.” The lead woman in the group assures him.

“Besides we have the car keys until tomorrow evening so why don’t you follow us?” She adds and turns to leave the room. Priya and Anna stand immediately to follow. Victor is reticent at first but Anna and Priya pull reassuringly on his arms and soon he stands and begins to follow.

The end of part one.

[justjensenanddean]

Jensen Ackles |  DCCon 2019, Gold Panel

Jensen says there is not necessarily a specific Dean storyline. Will be episodes when Dean is doing his thing and Sam is doing his. #spndc #dccon [x]

Jensen says just finished episode 9 and 10 is shaping up to be one of this favorite episodes. It's a one-off and a funny one. #spndc #dccon [x]

.@RuthieConnell comes to answer what episode they're on. @JensenAckles : we can't function without amazing women on set #SPNDC  [x]

Jensen said had a fight scene Friday night that had the crew doubled over laughing. Premise is Sam and Dean have lost their ability to do things Winchesters do. They can't fight cool anymore; Dean has cavities, Sam's got a cold. #spndc #dccon [x]

“you’re perfect day, with wife/kids?....or a sequel to 10 inch hero” “there was pretty perfect day yesterday, that i was not a part of at the brewery. i was a little sad i wasn’t there. i don’t care, the perfect day is just being with them.” #spndc [x]

He said arts and crafts and vendors and kids running everywhere. "I was a little sad I wasn't there but I'll get my chance next weekend." He says perfect day is just being with Danneel and the kids - no matter what they are doing. #spndc #dccon  [x]

Anything on the horizon after SPN in terms of acting? Someone yells batman and he says "that ship has sailed." #spndc #dccon  [x]

Jensen says nothing set in stone yet. He says he has been dragging his feet a little bit to focus on this season and not get distracted. He is going to LA in the next few weeks and will be having meetings he has been putting off... Networks/studio wanting to ask about his future. #spndc #dccon   [x] [x]

As far as acting is concerned, anything placed after #spn? @JensenAckles says there's nothing at on stone. He's been dragging his feet on that to focus on this season but he's heading to LA soon to have meetings he's been putting off about his future. Studio is invested. #SPNDC [x]

.@JensenAckles : I've held off on what I'm doing next to concentrate on this show but I have meetings in the next few weeks in LA. And I'm like people care about my future! #SPNDC [x]

Fan saw him as Bacchus last year - what was it like being king? "It was about the best experience you could possibly have." His first Mardi Gras - will be back. Already has time off. #spndc #dccon  [x]

He says the Bacchus Krewe allowed him to bring friends and everyone had so much fun. #spndc #dccon [x]

What was it like being King of Mardi Gras? It was @JensenAckles' first Mardi Gras. He says he already asked time off for next year to go again. It was amazing &he got to bring friends & they still won't stop talking about it being the funnest weekend of their lives. #SPNDC #DCCon [x]

"I didn't understand how big the King of Bacchus was until I arrived at the airport. Was going to go to the bathroom to freshen up but there was a brass band! #spndc #dccon  [x]

“i walked off the jetway and there was a brass band. i didn’t realize how big of a deal bacchus was. someone leaned over and told him that the president doesn’t get this many people. ‘oh i better turn it up’” #spndc11240 [x]

He says he hopes he didn't peg the fan in the face with beads. #spndc #dccon  [x]

Mardi Gras was great. Pretty special. He did not understand how big this was until he arrived a the airport and saw a brass band, the chief of police, his wife and JJ. See all those people je was like what is happening ?!  « even the President does not get many people » #SPNDC [x]

He didn’t think beads were a big deal but he walked out to the Muses Parade Thursday night and was immediately all GIMME SOME BEADSSSS #spndc [x]

"They're plastic beads. I don't get it. As soon as I walked out I was like GIVE ME THE BEADS!!!!!! I fell for it." Apparently something primal happens when you're on the thick of it that makes you REALLY NEED TO CATCH SOME BEADS. #SPNDC #DCCon [x]

Jensen says his father-in-law took a high heel to the head and split him open. "It's like full contact sport - wear a helmet." #spndc #dccon [x]

"if you go to mardi gras, wear a helmet" - @JensenAckles, gold panel #spndc [x]

His father in law got hit right on face with a high heel bread and it cut his face right open. "IT'S A FULL CONTACT SPORT." Throwing coins he realized they started to turn red because he was bleeding from digging his hands into the dubloon bucket with so much enthusiasm. #SPNDC [x]

So then Jensen focused on throwing the beads. Said it was satisfying to make eye contact with someone and throw them to him. Felt like getting points when he did it successfully. #spndc #dccon  [x]

“my hands got cut up from the plastic coins. i started throwing just the beads. and it became a video game. when they’d catch them it’s like i got more points” #spndc  [x]

Question about his episode next week that he directed - what has he learned from directing. [x] Jensen said it was his sixth episode and he has learned a lot. To my detriment - feels like first episode was easy because he knew so little. Ignorance is bliss.  [x]  He has accumulated more knowledge and tools. Directing is not easy task. As actor responsible for one link in the chain. AS a director he is responsible for every link. #spndc #dccon [x]

.@JensenAckles feels like he's learned a world since his first direction episode and that's too his depriment because the job gets so much harder as you know more how to go into it. As an actor, he's only one link but as director you have to go in and make every part work. #SPNDC  [x]

He says the worst is getting a director who looks like deer in headlights. Quickest way to lose a crew. #spndc #dccon  [x]

Directing isn't just knowing what you're doing from a technical standpoint but also knowing how to command a set, which is something he learned from watching the legendary directors he's worked with deal with mishaps. "have an answer" is the best advice he's gotten. #SPNDC #DCCon [x]

Directors have to have answers when things happen. Have an answer - you can always change your mind. But if you say I don't care or it doesn't matter you just diminished that person's job. #spndc #dccon [x]

Bob Singer says if you are going to steal, steal from the best so that's what Jensen does.  #spndc #dccon [x]

.@JensenAckles : I learned from Phil and Kim when you're the director have an answer. Otherwise you're diminishing someone else's job. #SPNDC [x]

Fan tells Jensen he is beautiful. #spndc #dccon She is all of us. [x]

If Jensen had to face some of the monsters what would he do? Run. #spndc #dccon [x]

He says part of him would react with Dean Winchester but also there is a screaming child in him too. #spndc #dccon [x]

“when the show is over, dean is not gone. he’s right here in me” #spndc [x]

"If you had to face monsters Dean has had to face, what would you do?" @JensenAckles: RUN. Call Dean Winchester? I've been able to succeed at playing Dean because he is a part of me. He is an exaggerated part of me. Sometimes people say "your Dean is showing--well YEAH." #SPNDC [x]

Jensen says he wasn't trained as an actor - didn't go to school. The way he tells the story through a character is he uses himself. How would he react to a situation? #spndc #dccon [x]

jensen: sometimes i hear people say "hey, your dean is showing" - yeah, because he's here, he's a part of me. #SPNDC [x]

Jensen says he has done haunted houses for a lot of his adult life and he is rarely scared. So he thinks he might face danger head on and channel as much Dean Winchester as he can. #spndc #dccon [x]

Is Jensen pleased with the way it is going to end? Jensen talks about going to the writing room and getting the pitch of the end.  He said at first it didn't sit well with him; slept on it; thought about it for a few days. Talked to Dee about it, who suggested calling @therealKripke . Called Kripke and asked about the ending. He thought about it and got an email the next day - said Jensen is too close to it and you have to step back and think about it from an audience/fan perspective. So now Jensen is really excited about the end. He says if you are first like "what?" he encourages to step back and think from a bigger perspective. #spndc #dccon   [x] [x] [x] [x] [x]

.@JensenAckles : yes I'm double denim today. Deal with it! #SPNDC [x]

#Jensen Ackles #DCCon19 #Dean Winchester #Jensen x Dean #Director!Jensen #Bacchus: Mardi Gras 2019 #SPNDC #Convention #* #his solo panels are magical #we got so much info in 30 minutes than in the past 4 cons wow

[fairestcat]

We Did The Thing: Musings On the AO3, Wiscon, and Winning the Fandom Culture Wars

HOLY SHIT WE WON A MOTHERFUCKING HUGO.

Ahem.

More seriously - or at least more verbosely - I think we won the fandom culture wars. How weird is that?

This is a sort of rambly post. It's about the OTW and the AO3, but it's also about Wiscon, because that's the community I'm in where old-school SFF fandom and transformative works fandom collide, and it's where I've watched this transformation happen over the last decade.

Back in October I made a tumblr post about the history of the OTW/AO3: On the AO3 all these years later.

That post is mostly just quotes from the comments to @astolat's original post that started the AO3: An Archive Of One's Own - and quotes from the post I made back then linking to hers:  An Archive of One's Own, Or: Why Shouldn't We Ask For Everything We Want?

Those posts are from May 2007. I was on the OTW Finance Committee by that fall.

One year later, in May 2008, I went to my first Wiscon. I was on two panels: "Fanfic and Slash 201," and "Fanfic Rising: The Organization for Transformative Works."

They were back to back on Saturday night. "Fanfic and Slash 201" from 9:00 to 10:15 and the OTW panel from 10:30 to 11:45. All fanworks panels at non fanworks-specific cons were late night panels back then. Or, occasionally, on Monday morning after half the con had gone home.

I don't remember who else was on the Fanfic 201 panel, but the OTW panel was me, @oliviacirce and ellen_fremedon. The three of us had never met before that con. @oliviacirce and I had been in Chicago Friday night for a Panic! At the Disco concert and hadn't gotten back to Madison until 3am. I have no idea how we were even still coherent for a 10:30 PM panel.

None of us wrote the panel description, which reads even more impressively antagonistic in retrospect.

"The Organization for Transformative Works (OTW), led by fanfic writers, fan vidders, and fan artists (including writer Naomi Novik) seeks to establish a new regime in copyright law, in which 'all fannish works are recognized as legal and transformative and are accepted as a legitimate creative activity.' Should there be an exception for fanfic under copyright? Is OTW a good idea? (Some fans are afraid that OTW's activities will end BigMedia's tolerance for fannish creations.) What does the law say? What's the viewpoint of those who create original works -- should authors lose control of their original creations, as long as fans claim protection under a fanfic exception? And what about OTW's commitment to offer protection for RPF (Real People Fanfic)?"

At the time I would have said it was a pretty good panel, and yet we spent a distressing percentage of the panel defending the mere right of fanworks to even exist.

I went back to Wiscon in 2009, which was an...eventful year. It was the first Wiscon post-Racefail and it sparked a lot of discussion of intersecting modes of fannishness and particularly online fandom vs. offline con-based fandom, which was at the time a much bigger divide.

Wiscon 2009 was also the year @ellen_fremedon went to a panel on historical fiction, and got jumped on by Ellen Klages, who was one of that year's Guests of Honor, for the sin of mentioning fanfic in her presence.

After that Wiscon I posted Wiscon, Media Fandom and The Larger Fannish Conversation, about my experience of that divide, particularly as a transformative works fan at Wiscon.

Here's the thing: online media and fanfic fandom is a vibrant, active community within broader SF fandom. [...] And to a large extent media fandom is where the young female fans are, the women who are the future of fandom. We're there at Wiscon too; I was amazed by the number of people from LJ fandom I saw at the con this year. And yet, when it comes to having a voice in larger fandom, we're still the embarrassing cousin shuffled off into the corner (or the hotel lobby). Even at Wiscon, the feminist science fiction convention, we're mostly under the radar, carving out a tiny niche for ourselves.

Last year we had two general, broad-topic fanfic panels. This year we had a fanfic panel, a vidding panel and the media vs. book fandom panel, which was not explicitly a media fandom panel but had an audience heavily weighted towards media fandom participants. And I walked into those panels and I thought "Here! Here are my people!" But it was frustrating too. Why are we relegated to the corner, why are we willing to be relegated to the corner? The conversations we're having, the things we're doing, they don't exist in a vacuum, they're relevant to the larger fannish conversation, they're especially relevant, I think, to the conversation going on at Wiscon. And I think it's time we were a bigger, more open part of that conversation.

So, we set out to make that happen. The OTW and the AO3 were a big part of that. Everyone who was worried at the time that the OTW would bring too much attention to fandom was right to be afraid. And wrong to be afraid too. Because that attention was how everything started to change. The OTW was fandom coming out of the closet, and like any coming out it was a powerful, transformative moment for those involved.

In 2010, a group of fans held the first ever Wiscon Vid Party. 

At Wiscon in 2010, we held the first ever vid party in one of these hospitality suites on the Saturday night, from 9pm to 3am. That's six hours of vid programming! It was mostly unthemed, other than "here are some amazing vids!"[...] The general vibe of the party was loud, a little bit raucous, and pretty informal. We had a mixture of sofas and armchairs, stackable seating, and standing room. People came and went at will. We put a sign on the door asking people to keep conversations to a minimum, and it worked pretty well to keep chatter down while still allowing people to relax and have a good time. It was pretty much like a really big living room.

I missed that con due to the whole move to Canada and get married thing I did, but I remember my first Vid Party in 2012, looking around the party room and having this amazing feeling of being surrounded by my people.

I loved Wiscon, but it was always a fraught experience. There was always this worry that I'd say the wrong thing in the wrong place and suddenly get that disappointed, "oh, you're one of those fans," response. The vid party was the one place at the con that you could just walk in and that worry went away.

And then there started being more of those places. We started suggesting more and more fic and vid related panels.

In 2012, @oliviacirce and I were both on two transformative works panels. "What makes a great transformative work?" and "Fans Fix SF." In a step up from previous fanworks panels at Wiscon they were both during the day. But they were also both in the smallest panel rooms at the con, and both panels fit comfortably into those rooms. Conference 5, where "Fans Fix SF" was held, is still the only room Wiscon uses for programming that's so small it isn't wired for microphones.

And then in 2013 I suggested ten panels for Wiscon and nine of them ended up on the schedule. They weren't all explicitly transformative fandom panels, but a lot of them were, and most of the panel descriptions were informed by my experience in transformative works fandom. Looking back, that was a sea-change moment, because an interesting thing happened. There mostly stopped being transformative fandom-specific panels at Wiscon, because it started being okay, even expected, that fanfic and other transformative works might come up on any panel, from the audience or the panelists.

At Wiscon 2018, I went to a panel on #OwnVoices fiction. Every panelist was a published author and/or professional editor. In the course of the panel, every panelist mentioned fanfic in general or the AO3 in specific in an explicitly complementary fashion. I nearly burst into tears in the back of the panel room.

Afterwards, I met up with @oliviacirce and ellen_fremedon to flail about it, at which point we realized that it had been ten years since that first fateful OTW panel where we all met. And that ten years both felt like so long ago, and also so recent for everything to have changed so completely.

At Wiscon 2019, the three of us were on another panel together. We called it "Fanfic: Threat or Menace - Ten Years Later," and this time I wrote the description:

Do you remember a time before the AO3? Do you remember a time when mentioning fanfic at Wiscon risked a lecture on its illegality and/or immorality? We sure do! In 2008 we met on the panel “Fanfic Rising: The Organization for Transformative Works,” & spent most of our time defending the right of fanworks to exist. In 2018 we were amazed to realize just how much had changed. Let’s talk about how the perception & reception of fanworks have changed, both in fandom at large and right here at Wiscon.

We made it onto the schedule. They once again put us in the smallest panel room. We looked around the lobby on Thursday night and said, "yeah, that ain't happening." We eventually moved to one of the largest panel rooms.

It was almost completely full.

I started the panel by reading out the original panel description from 2008. There was laughter! revolutionaryjo came up afterwards and asked to take a picture of the description on my phone. There were so many people in that room who had no idea what the Wiscon of a decade previous had been like. It was amazing.

Best Related Work? The OTW and AO3 changed the nature of the relationship between fic readers and writers and the entirety of mainstream organized SFF fandom.

The Wiscon Vid Party is still happening, and it's still a marathon of amazing vids, but it's not a really big living room anymore. The Vid Party is the Friday night feature in the biggest panel room. There are Premieres. There’s a sing-a-long. People come who have never watched a vid outside of Wiscon. People come who've never even heard of vids outside of Wiscon. The first year the Vid Party was in the big room, I walked into the room just before the show started, looked around, and realized I didn't recognize ⅔ of the people in the room. And I was so happy. Because I no longer need the Vid Party as a safe space to let down my guard, the entire con is now that place.

We did that. We made that happen.

The OTW made that happen. The AO3 made that happen. But also, a whole lot of individual fans made that happen. We stepped out of our corner, we stepped out of our closet. We demanded a seat at the table. And now we have a motherfucking HUGO AWARD, and when Naomi Novik got on stage at the Hugos and asked everyone who felt that they were part of the AO3 to stand up to be acknowledged, a notable number of this year's other Hugo nominees were among the attendees who got to their feet.

#ao3 #HUGO AWARD WINNING AO3 #we did the thing #otw #wiscon #meta

[fightingforcreativity]

Missed Dance- Second Chance

Notes:

This ficlet would be without 

@massivespacewren

​ who gave me a lovely addional prompt: 

how about, bucky coming home late night after a mission, which went on longer than he planned, so he missed a bunch of social events that he wanted to go out with tony to, and he thinks tony is probably asleep by now, but he comes home to tony waiting for him (in a tux? or just dressed down?) and he's got the music ready and made a bit of space in their living room and pulls bucky in for some surprise dancing session, with just the two of them

Also many thanks to @the-chibi-sempai for the quick betaing. In additon this ficlet ticks off two sqaures, one for @tonystarkbingo‘ flash bingo: Touch, and one for @buckybarnesbingo Y4 Surprise Dancing. [Bingo Fills: 

TSBFlash

Title: Missed Dance- Second Chance

Collaborators: Fighting_for_Creativity

Card Number: 023

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26326441

Square: touch

Ship: WinterIron

Rating: general

Tags: Soft, Fluff, Angst, Bucky Barnes Feels, Soft Tony Stark

Warning: none

Summary: A mission delayed Bucky's plan to go out with his boyfriend.

Thankfully said boyfriend was nothing if not resourceful.

Word Count: 980

BBB

Title: Missed Dance- Second Chance

Collaborator: J_Gun_I

Square Filled: Y4 Surprise Dancing

Ship: WinterIron

Rating: General

Major Tags: Soft, Fluff, Angst, Bucky Barnes Feels, Soft Tony Stark

Summary: A mission delayed Bucky's plan to go out with his boyfriend.

Thankfully said boyfriend was nothing if not resourceful.

Word Count: 980

On Wednesday evening Bucky finally got to board the extraction quinjet. He had been supposed to be home on Friday last week and hated that some greenhorn screwed up their mission so badly, that Bucky had to save not only that newbie’s ass but everyone’s else as well. Which, sadly, included their main target, who had been a dick from the moment Bucky’s team got their hands on him. 

 ‘To think that I had to cancel my dining and dancing plans with Tony because of this fuck up…’

 Sighing deeply, Bucky leaned back into his seat, waiting for Fury to enter the conference room for their debriefing. The super soldier wanted nothing more than to get back home. Maybe stopping at a flower shop and buying Tony some carnations in red and white, before returning home to his lover and apologizing for the missed date and social events. 

 If Bucky managed to do it right, Tony would agree to go out on the next Friday Bucky’s preferred bar did a swing evening. Fury’s rude voice interrupted his musing, “Anything to add, Sarg?”

 “Only if you send me on another mission with any greenhorn, ‘m gonna quit.”

 By the small barely there tug upwards of Fury’s lips, the man was amused. ‘Bastard.’

 ~~

 Finally, Bucky was home. He took two steps at a time, being too impatient to wait for FRIDAY sending down the elevator. The flowers were a beautiful arrangement protected by foil and Bucky hoped Tony would love the meaning behind them.

 Arriving at the penthouse, Bucky entered his personal code into the panel lock. When it was accepted, the door slid open and Bucky entered Tony’s their penthouse. The super soldier still wasn’t used to calling Tony’s living quarters theirs, but he sure loved the sound of it. Upon entering Bucky briefly wondered why the lights were all dimmed, hoping that he wouldn’t wake Tony if his genius was already sleeping for once.

 Proceeding towards their living room, Bucky felt like he walked into the wrong apartment. Sure, the glass wall was still there as well as the big cream-colored couch, but that one, as well as most of their furniture, was shoved to the side, leaving plenty of space in the center of the living room.

 For a terrifying moment, the soldier believed that Tony was done with him and wanted to renovate like people did when they got rid of the old ballast. Then the dimmed light turned a bit brighter and his eyes landed on Tony.

 Whatever panic might have tried to claw at him before, it was gone. Tony was wearing one of Bucky’s favorite tuxedos. A red one with beautiful blue accents on lapel and cuffs. Elegantly Tony stood, a swift smooth motion, his high-class upbringing clearly showing.

 Soft music started and from one moment to the next, Bucky found Tony in front of him, taking the bouquet.

“My. Are those for me, darling? They’re beautiful.”

 A faint blush graced Bucky’s cheeks, eyes glued to Tony’s every move while the smaller man took care of the flowers.

 Upon Tony’s return, Bucky had time to take in their surroundings and had realized that the floor was decked out with parquet. To the side stood Bucky’s old fashioned gramophone, the needle dropped and hooked up to the penthouse speakers.

 The music wasn’t one of his LPs but a waltz and as soon as Bucky’s brain caught up with that , he flushed even more. Before Bucky had left, the taller brunet had confessed to Tony how much he wanted to learn the waltz, that back in his days only upper-class children were taught and he had learned swing instead.

 Tony had smiled softly at him and promised, lips touching featherlike Bucky’s own, that one day he would teach the taller man. 

 ‘Looks like the day arrived.’

 “Hi, sweetheart.”

 “Good late evening to you, Mr. Barnes. Might I be so daring and ask for this dance?” Tony’s brown eyes sparkled mischievous, the only thing giving way to how much this was a game for both to enjoy. The slight bow and outstretched hand. The soft lighting. Everything about this gave off a fairytale-like vibe.

 “Oh, I’m not so sure I’ll be able to dance this, Doctor Stark,” Bucky replied, coyly. Because he was so focused on his smaller lover, Bucky saw the moment Tony’s pupils dilated a fraction. ‘Two can play this game, honey.’

 “Don’t worry, Mr. Barnes. If you let me, I shall lead you through it. I promise to be patient and gentle.”

 Tony’s voice was promising things and before Bucky knew what he did, his metal hand lay gently in Tony’s outstretched one.

 Not more than a heartbeat passed before Tony pressed a soft kiss to the metal fingers, a butterfly-like touch. Then he guided Bucky on the parquet. The soldier’s heart was beating furiously, nerves, and love competing to be the reason the tall brunet went into cardiac arrest. Getting into position, Bucky could have sworn his body melted against Tony’s while Tony was all solid muscles and confidence. The first few steps were more stumbles than real dancing but Tony whispered whatever step was needed softly, leading him through, first one, then a second and a third waltz.

 Without fully acknowledging it Tony had slipped into being lead during their third waltz and Bucky beamed after.

 “I knew you would do fantastic, Buckeroo.”

 “M sorry for the missed date, doll.”

 “Don’t be. We can practice a bit more before you go and touch me all in public.”

 A soft chuckle followed that statement. Forehead against forehead, they breathed each other’s air. Tony’s hand resting gently on Bucky’s back, while Bucky’s arms rested on Tony’s shoulders. 

 They didn’t dance any real dance for the rest of the evening, simply swaying to and fro with each other, content to just be.

 “Winterwonder?”

 “Hm~”

 “Welcome home.”

#buckybarnesbingo2020 #tsbflash #j's fics #writing prompts #WinterIron #soft #dancing

[fashournalist]

Thank you, Isentia Content Hub: An open letter to my colleagues.

Eleven days ago, it has exactly been two years since I first started working at Isentia. I remember feeling scared whether I’d belong, and what kind of people I’ll be working with. I remember I kept telling myself “Bawal maattach, Grace, as some alumni have said, when you enter the real world, you’re there to work. Just do your job well and be a team player, but don’t invest your emotions.” But here I am, after two years, with so many beautiful memories with amazing people. I did get attached after all, and it’s worth it. Because I did not only have colleagues, I met a new family.

This was my open letter to Content Hub, which I hesitated to send at first after writing, because it’s too long. But thankfully, two of my teammates encouraged me to send it because they said what matters is I wrote it from my heart and it’s my farewell message to my friends. (I was one of the employees who got laid off.) It was here that I learned tears are really contagious, because after sending this letter, I received texts saying they shed a tear, too. Perhaps that’s because when I wrote it, I was shedding tears myself. Why do I feel like graduating from high school? Haha! I guess this is how close we have been. So here goes my letter, and pictures of some of the memories we have made. :)

Dear Content Hub,

This August 20, it has been exactly two years since I started working at Isentia. And now, 731 days and 41,283 summaries later, I just finished my last working day as a Broadcast Monitor. Permit me to be cheesy, I just want to thank the amazing people who made the past two years a memorable journey. I apologize in advance for the length of this email, but please know this letter came from my heart.

I'm really blessed that I got to work with you. I did not only have colleagues, I had a family. That is why whenever I reached the office, my update to my parents has always been "Happy place". It meant I arrived safely, I'm at OSMA already. And I know there have been hardships, times heartbreaking news crushed me, or times I went home way past my shift. Yet whenever I was on my home, no matter how tired I got, I just looked forward to facing the next day and working again. If world news were a play, we all get front row seats, binge-watching current events for at least 40 hours a week. It genuinely excited me that our job allows us to literally learn something new every day. But, I don't feel that way all the time; sometimes I just have burnouts and frustrations. So I think the real major reason that kept me going through it all is I had colleagues as supportive as you guys are. Allow me to thank you.

To Sydney Swans, my first team. 

Working with helpful teammates like you added to my motivation as I traveled from LB to Ortigas every day for five months (when I was not yet able to find an apartment in Manila). Thank you for your devotion to Qld Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. It showed me what client-obsessed looks like, and I committed to following that example. Your compere inside jokes and reactions to news added a lot of fun to our job. Until now, I enjoy backreading the group chat just to see your new musings or memes. Thanks a lot especially to John, Julianne, Zennon, Marco, and Kuya Ronnie.

To Fremantle Dockers, my afternoon shift team for more than a year, 

Thank you for everything; for being supportive colleagues, helping me whenever I struggled, and celebrating with me whenever I improved. 

Kuya Coily’s last day at our team.

How we help one another, especially during the Christmas dinner just so everyone can go to Sambokojin on time, inspires me. This was our post-Sambo bonding at Greenfield. I am also relieved that you never judged me as “walang pakisama” even though I only drank iced tea or milkshake haha. Others tend to force me to drink, but my friends at Isentia just let me finish all the food. HAHA. I appreciate people who can respect our preferences and differences. And you are witnesses that I don’t need to drink to be drunk. Based on my energy, I am drunk by default. Haha I will miss all these sessions with you and my batchmates!

I will miss our movie nights and billiard sessions (tho I'm just watching you haha) at the lounge. I wish we played more board games, too.

Isentia Outing 2019

Thank you so much also for being there for me when I lost my mother, you had my back and that will always mean a lot to me. When my Momi was still alive, she always knew I was working with great people. Thank you to every single one of you especially AJ, Morris, Evann, Aly and Kuya Mel. 

I look forward to a Dockers reunion when this pandemic is over! 

And my favorite teammate, Czesar. The best meetings are the ones you participated in. Thank you for all the laughter you gave us. 

I also want to thank my friends outside my team, including Tomie, Zendee, LA and Nico from Collingwood Magpies. 

Thank you for the dinner sessions and conversations on life and dreams!

This was LA’s birthday salubong at Kanto Breakfast :) While the next photo is a “panel discussion” at Goto Believe haha! We talked about the news we monitored, and boi, we went home at almost 5am.

Tomie, thank you for our never-ending laughter on our way home. Normally, I just want to be quiet and regain energy while traveling, but with you, it's okay to chat all the way to Quiapo.

To my favourite comperes, who will not read this but I feel like thanking anyway because some of you might share love for them: Marc Fennell, Jan Fran, Kanoa Lloyd, Jules Schiller, Sonya Feldhoff, Anna Vidot, Dave Sutherland, Tamara Oudyn, Sammy J, Paul Barry, Jeremy Corbett, David Speers, Leigh Sales and my inspiration Jesse Mulligan. Thank you because I learned so much about the world and about life from you. I will miss blogging about your stories and reacting to your insights.

To the leaders who managed me and/or accommodated my concerns, 

This is my former TL, Kuya Coily :)

TL Coily, TL Angel, TL Rem, TL Nico, TL Nic, TL Jonna, TL Geoff, TL Alni, and Sup Mitch. Thank you for all your help! Thank you for the times you inspired me and my colleagues to grow as well as the times you coached me, gave constructive feedback, and helped me overcome my weaknesses so I can continuously improve. 

To our Trainer Rachel, who we can consider as Content Hub's matriarch, 

thank you so much because you patiently equipped every single one of us before we transitioned to live operations. To OM Dean, thank you for your feedback and praise during my regularisation.

And most of all, to Western Borlogs fam, my home for two years, I don't even know how to thank you enough. 

I'm grateful you've been my batchmates at our training--and for everything after that. 

Isentia Outing 2019

Sibyullee, farewell samgyup party for Jai (her last day in the company)

Seoulgyupsal, farewell samgyup party for Aiona (before she flew to Spain to teach)

office memories :)

Pantry catch-ups. I usually eat at my desk because of all the work but I’m grateful for the times I was able to join their dinner breaks hehe.

Sambokojin, Christmas dinner 2019

Dear Borlogs, thank you for all the memories, endless laughter, samgyup sessions (a regular segment haha), Friday nights, and times we comforted each other when some of us are facing a hard time. Thank you also for comforting me and my family when you and B visited the wake of my Momi. She has always heard about you (and I'm happy she met some of you) when she was still alive. Thank you for being such a great sounding board, a safe space where we can be vulnerable and strong at the same time. Also, I've never been a milk tea person until I met you guys, so thanks for that, too. My BM experience would not be the same without you. Naz, Janelle, Joey, Patty, Billie, Lou, Aiona, Jai, Nee, Mau, C, Ady, Sarah. Thank you, sists!!

If you've read until here, thank you for bearing with my lengthy cheesy, farewell note to Content Hub. I attached some photos that captured a few of the memories I spent with you, as well as some jokes I've randomly thought about while monitoring. I was reserving them for Christmas Party or something, but anyway, here they are. I am confident they will make you cringe.

So there, I will miss you and I appreciate you always. I will not forget the memories we've made along the way. Thank you for everything, Isentia Content Hub! God bless you all and stay safe.

Arrivederci :)

Always,

Grace / Mariel

(this was me when I graduated from training and was so excited to be part of Content Hub haha)

PS. Thank you to Janelle, Jai, Joey, Jai, Kuya Coily, LA, Zendee, Dots and Troy for the photos!

PPS. Thank you so much for your heartwarming replies!!! And the food/gifts some of you sent!! I love you guys. (There, I said it. Haha! I was too shy to put that sentence in the email I sent. But this is my blog, I can write what my heart says without holding back)

^letter from AJ with a Bebi plant. She sent me oatmeal cookies and three novels too huehue she knows my weaknesses well haha thankuu ajj

^Matchaaaa from Patty thank you sist! <33

^Carbonaraaaa from Tomiee thank you siz!!!

Thank you to every single one of you. I was emotional when I wrote the open letter, but I got more nostalgic when I read your responses. I will always be thankful for the privilege of working with you and being your friend. Keep in touch, okay? We’ll still meet again. :)

Love,

Grace

#memories #grateful #work #job #Isentia #happy place #journey #personal #life #blog post #open letter #letter #colleagues #article #photojournal #thank you

[rovalent]

After a long time, it’s time to come back.

To accompany their title, the group will use ‘Cream’ as their sibling song. To help with this, Zoe will be offered to choreograph it. Their usual dance coaches will be available to assist her with whatever she may need. The rest of the members will be taught as it is created. They’ll record a dance practice to both ‘Cream’ and their title track ‘Up & Down’ on May 17th. 

Cheri will go to her costume fittings on May 7th in order to get everything checked for the start of recordings on the following week. The drama will consist of 12 episodes ranging from 55 to 65 minutes in length. Recordings will start on a Monday, the 11th, and should go until the 3rd of August. They’ll be recording around an episode a week with only short breaks for the cast and crew. The day of the release will be announced later on, aiming for July. This will be an extensive project, having to record from early in the dark morning to the dark nights, depending on what they need. Expect not to have much free time at all. They’ll have a day break every two Sundays, the first being on May 24th.

Zoe will also start her musical activities on May 26th. ‘Legally Blonde’ will have one show per night from Tuesday to Friday, and two during the weekends, having a break on Mondays. The musical will continue on for two months, making her last performance land on July 26th, a Sunday. Since she’ll only have the role of a dancer, she won’t get the spotlight for any big interviews, but a couple of journalists may stop by after the first night to ask her questions on how it is like to take part in such a production.

To help with promotions, the five girls will head out a recording of the variety show ‘Weekly Idol’ on May 11th based on episode 304 featuring TWICE. You can find it here. This episode will air on May 27th. On May 14th, Ella and Zoe will go together to a recording of ‘King Of Masked Singer’ as guest panel members based on this episode. This episode will air on May 30th. On May 16th, Ashe and Yena will go together to a recording of ‘Hello Counselor’ as based on this episode. This episode will air on June 1st. All of this may and should be changed to fit Luxe’s story, discography, and each of the members’ personalities.

Their comeback showcase starts at 7pm, an hour after the official release. Their MV will play on the big screen and then the MC of the night Choi Haebin will step onto the stage to start things off. The members will be called onto the stage and introduce themselves to the public, as well as their brand new song. That’s when they’ll perform ‘Up&Down’ for the first time. They’ll then start a section of questions and answers regarding their new album and comeback preparations including Ashe’s participation in the production, as well as other major events during their hiatus period such as drama and musical participations. They’ll then perform ‘Just The Two Of Us’ while sitting down, followed by a full performance of ‘Cream’. During the next break, the MC will ask a few personal and variety questions, as well as their goals for this comeback and the future. They’ll sing ‘My Soulmate’ and then ‘Like A Cat’ as an encore stage. Their outfits will follow the one on this image.

The following is the music show promotion schedule for LUXE’s ‘Up & Down’ activities:

05/22, 05/29, 06/05: KBS Music Bank

05/22: Arirang Simply K-Pop

05/23, 05/30, 06/06: MBC Music Core

05/24, 05/31, 06/07: SBS Inkigayo

05/26, 06/02, 06/09: MTV The Show

05/27, 06/03, 06/10: MBC Show Champion

05/28, 06/04, 06/11: Mnet M!Countdown

During the first week of promotions, LUXE will use ‘Cream’ as their sibling song and will perform it alongside the title track. For any day that you do not have to perform or have any other schedules, you may have a break at the dorms unless said otherwise.

Music show promotions will last for a total of three weeks this time. Programs will begin pre-recording early in the morning and groups are expected to stay at the broadcasting station until the live broadcast takes place later in the day. Although music shows in real life follow varied recording schedules, for IC writing purposes, the schedule for every music show will follow this consistent pattern:

06:20AM: at broadcasting station: basic first rehearsal on stage; no makeup, casual clothes.

06:45AM: head to salon: get makeup and hair done.

07:45AM: return to broadcasting station: eat breakfast, nap in dressing room/space.

09:00AM: dress rehearsal on stage; stage outfits, makeup on.

09:20AM: return to dressing room/space: rest, eat, nap.

11:00AM: final camera rehearsal on stage; stage outfits, makeup on.

11:15AM: greet senior artist groups at their respective dressing room/spaces, accompanied by a manager. you may not sleep during this time, up until the live broadcast.

07:00PM: live broadcast; when not performing, must stay in dressing room/space until the ending stage of the show.

08:00PM: line up in waiting room area to formally greet producers, director, and senior staff.

09:00PM: meeting time with fans who attended the recordings.

10:00PM: return to dressing rooms to clean up, change back into casual clothes.

11:00PM: arrive back at dorms.

On applicable Fridays, members leave the KBS building for recording Arirang Simply K-Pop which airs 1PM ~ 2PM.

Due to her drama recording schedules, LUXE will pre-record their stages early in the day with Cheri and Zoe (starting on the 26th) before they have to leave for their solo schedules. The rest of the members will stay for the music show airings.

On May 25th, LUXE will be holding their first fansign in Goyang. 100 lucky fans will be chosen through a lottery system. Each album they buy gives them one chance to join the fansign and, from those specific purchases, only the luckiest will get to have a one-on-one moment with each of the girls. Since it’s their first fansign, they may keep presents that the fans give them except for food, which they can either eat on the spot or let go of it after the event.

Ella will finally conclude her ‘The Heirs’ recordings on May 9th. To celebrate, the cast and staff will have a dinner night all together. She’s also invited to the finale watching on May 28th with more tasty food guaranteed.

On May 13th, Cheri and Ashe will go to a recording of IQs for the S-POP channel. The episode will air on the following, on May 20th.

On May 16th, the members will record a commercial for SuperStar Royal.

On May 29th, they’ll hold a surprise performance and teaching moment on the Speak Up! Event.

You will gain +5 POINTS TO DISTRIBUTE AS YOU WISH, +3 DEBUT POINTS and +2 ACHIEVEMENTS for completing the written requirements explained on the idol tier page. As this is a song promotion month, one of your chosen achievements must be relevant to the above schedule and all required content should be written about activities listed on the above schedule for the month of May. There is a capped maximum of five solos, sets of starters and/or partnered threads you may write to collect this month’s points.

To clarify, the only form that needs to be submitted at the end of the month is a verification form for your debut points and achievements. Any SP points earned can be collected as soon as you finish the requirement for them. At the end of the month, as you did with your previous evaluation forms, you will submit the following form to the Points Verification blog:

IDOL’S NAME - ROYAL ENT - MAY SCHEDULE (for the June 3 verification form)

PROOF OF ACTIVITY: [ x ]

POINTS: +00 SP [ distribute these however you like ]

TOTAL POINTS EARNED: +00 SP +00 DBT

+1 WK ACHIEVEMENT #1 [ NUMBER OF TIMES TAKEN + CURRENT LEVEL ]

+1 WK ACHIEVEMENT #2 [ NUMBER OF TIMES TAKEN + CURRENT LEVEL ]

IF DO MAX REQS. :  +1 WK ACHIEVEMENT #3 [ NUMBER OF TIMES TAKEN + CURRENT LEVEL ]

DEBUT POINTS SPENT ON THE IDOL SHOP THIS MONTH:

NEW DEBUT POINTS TOTAL:

* Rookie and trainee characters are allowed to attend pre-recordings and fan meetings to interact with idol muses if they choose to do so. Just be realistic about the scheduling; trainees who skip too many lessons to support idol muses will be noticed by their company staff!

**** The group performances on music shows give them 19 EXP. The members’ appearance on TV shows for promotions gives 3 EXP. Their fansign gives 1 EXP. Zoe’s participation in the musical gives 2 EXP and her choreographing a song gives 1 EXP. The members’ appearance on S-POP will give them 1 EXP, making it a total of 27 EXP. For more information regarding GROUP EXP, refer to the idol tier page.

#rkluxe #luxe:may20

[theonyxpath]

Art for Book of the Fallen by Vincent Locke

The title may say “Monday Meeting Notes” because, well, it’s Monday and that’s what we do!

But it’s a lie.

There was no Monday Meeting this week.

Now that I’ve established myself as an unreliable narrator, what will you do? How can you trust that the information I’m bringing you is accurate? I’m even questioning myself at this point! It probably should have said “Monday Musings by Dixie” or something. I honestly have no idea how Rich does one of these every week.

Anyway…

Book of the Fallen art by Drew Tucker

Hi, this is Dixie! As I said, there was no Monday meeting this week because Gen Con just wrapped up and everyone is either traveling, on vacation, or didn’t volunteer to have a 2-4 person meeting in which we couldn’t do much without the rest of the team (a wise choice, no? We’re rather wise). Rich will be back next week with a full update, much as we did for UK Games Expo a few months back, but until then they’ve (unwisely, probably) left me in charge with no oversight. I say this week is “aberrant” because many folks were out of the office, but also because of the Aberrant Kickstarter funding! More on that later.

As most of you know from previous blogs, we didn’t have a booth at Gen Con this year, but that was a very intentional choice, and shouldn’t be seen as a negative indicator of anything. We did have books for sale at both Studio 2 and IPR, and we did some panels! The members of the team who did go had a chance to attend more meetings and panels, as well as roam the floor a bit more to reach out to folks. (I didn’t go, but I bought a t-shirt and buttons in D.C., played some video games, did a cool playtest with some friends, and didn’t have to walk around in Indianapolis in the summer, so…)

Matt McElroy (sorry, Rich, I can’t bring myself to do the nicknames. I just can’t. That’s your thing.) sent along some photos from the show, so here’s a little slice of Gen Con

A display of Onyx Path books at Studio 2! Look at all the Scion! Those banners! Cats and dogs living together! Changeling: The Lost and Scarred Lands! So much!

The Wrecking Crew running some demos!

They also saw a few of our Onyx Path artists!

Hello, Priscilla! (I have a print of that Scarlet Empress piece from Exalted and it’s divine. (No pun intended until after I typed it.)

It’s Steve Ellis! He’s worked on a few lines for us, including Scion: Hero! (No one gave me a list! I’m trying!)

Claudio Pozas has also worked on quite a few things for us, including the terrifying goat-thing piece from Adventures for Curious Cats, the first book I developed! Thanks for being so talented, Claudio!

Darker Days Radio recorded our What’s Up With Onyx Path? panel and you can listen to it here:

The other super-cool thing that happened last week aside from Gen Con was that Trinity Continuum: Aberrant funded! We ended at $125,098, or 312% of our funding target! Once we get BackerKit set up we’ll be posting links here, I’m sure, but until then here are some of the stretch goals we unlocked via the campaign:

N!WE N!TERNATIONAL WRESTLING ENTERTAINMENT – A new PDF product discussing the N!WE, the performers and industry personnel, and various elements of professional wrestling in the world of Aberrant.

PROTEUS NOVA COMPENDIUM SECTIONS 1-3 – A new PDF product, with stat blocks for many characters featured in bio write-ups in the Trinity Continuum: Aberrant book. All backers receiving the PDF version of Trinity Continuum: Aberrant will have this automatically added to their rewards list. 

ABERRANT NOVELLA – A short story set in the world of Aberrant, highlighting the world and characters.

ART BUDGET INCREASE – Additional funds will be allocated to the art budget, adding more amazing and incredible art to the Trinity Continuum: Aberrant  book.

NOVAS WORLDWIDE 1-3 – Introductory scenarios, designed to jumpstart a longer chronicle.

IN-GAME FICTION –  Duke Rollo, direct and uncensored journalist of the world of Aberrant is back with more irreverent insights into the ironies of life in a nova-loving world. A new essay will be released as a PDF.

Not final design!

That’s SO MUCH, and that’s only a few of them. I can’t wait to see what all we do with Aberrant. Congratulations to Steve Kenson, Ian A. A. Watson, Eddy Webb, and the rest of the amazing Aberrant team! If you are unfamiliar with the world, here is an actual play we did over the past couple of weeks:

Additionally, if you like that sort of thing, we are streaming more and more via Twitch at https://ift.tt/2YeJZ07. Come say hi! We’ve been doing actual plays, interviews, and even a live Pathcast! Hit that follow button so you get notified whenever we go live.

Art by Alex Sheikman for Dark Eras 2!

Many Worlds, One Path!

Blurbs!

Kickstarter!

I already talked about Aberrant‘s amazing wrap up above, but keep an eye out for the Deviant: The Renegades Kickstarter when it launches! (I’m personally very excited for that one, for obvious reasons: It’s a brand-new line launched with me as the Chronicles of Darkness in-house developer! Also Eric and Dave have done amazing work, along with all the writers. I’m waiting with bated breath for the art to start rolling in.)

Onyx Path Media!

This Friday’s Onyx Pathcast is all about our good and bad experiences in games, as well as stumbles and misses we may have had here or there.

And Here’s More Media About Our Worlds:

Our Twitch channel has been alive with content over the last week, and you can find it right here:  https://www.twitch.tv/theonyxpath So many of our fans and customers have been engaging with the livestreams we’ve been running through the channel, and we’re so grateful for your involvement in everything we’ve been doing. If you missed any of the episodes of Collateral Damage, the interviews with Dixie Cochran, Matthew Dawkins, Eddy Webb, or the live Onyx Pathcast, or indeed any of the other videos we’ve put up, do not despair! Those videos have all been migrated to YouTube so you can watch them again. Again, our channel is here: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheOnyxPath

You can also find the latest episode of the Onyx Path News on our channel right here: https://youtu.be/V3X1qt3qSoU

And here’s part three of our Wraith: The Oblivion chronicle prologue: https://youtu.be/8q88qC39IhI

In other news, here’s the Story Told Podcast continuing with their Exalted actual play: http://thestorytold.libsyn.com/fall-of-jiara-episode-11

And for the love of all that is Exalted, check out Beanduck‘s show right here: https://www.twitch.tv/beanduck

Occultists Anonymous will soon be going up on our channel, but until then, here’s episodes 32 and 33 of their Mage: The Awakening chronicle.

Episode 32: Speaking With Graves – Who is this young woman at the bar? Where is Mr. Johnson?! Is this Demesne going to be a problem?!? All will be answered…maybe. https://youtu.be/_jE9fM2O2PA

Episode 33: Trigger Pull – Mammon picks up Beck from the airport and tries to make up for lost time together. Songbird reaches out to an Obrimos mentor to compare notes. Atratus tries to look after Wyrd the Seer, but Wyrd has other ideas… https://youtu.be/_DEJ6XZdGfk

Twin Cities by Night continues with their Chronicles of Darkness actual play and a whole bunch of other non-Onyx-Path games you might want to check out: https://twincitiebynight.podbean.com/

Don’t forget Caffeinated Conquests is running The Sacrifice from Chicago by Night using V20 rules over here: https://www.youtube.com/user/CafConIsOn/videos

Drop Matthew a message via the contact button on matthewdawkins.com if you have actual plays, reviews, or game overviews you want us to profile on the blog!

Please check any of these out and let us know if you find or produce any actual plays of our games!

Electronic Gaming!

As we find ways to enable our community to more easily play our games, the Onyx Dice Rolling App is live! Our dev team has been doing updates since we launched based on the excellent use-case comments by our community, and this thing is awesome! (Seriously, you need to roll 100 dice for Exalted? This app has you covered.)

On Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

You can now read our fiction from the comfort and convenience of your Kindle (from Amazon) and Nook (from Barnes & Noble).

If you enjoy these or any other of our books, please help us by writing reviews on the site of the sales venue from which you bought it. Reviews really, really help us get folks interested in our amazing fiction!

Our selection includes these fiction books:

Our Sales Partners!

We’re working with Studio2 to get Pugmire and Monarchies of Mau out into stores, as well as to individuals through their online store. You can pick up the traditionally printed main book, the screen, and the official Pugmire dice through our friends there! https://studio2publishing.com/search?q=pugmire

We’ve added Prince’s Gambit to our Studio2 catalog: https://studio2publishing.com/products/prince-s-gambit-card-game

Now, we’ve added Changeling: The Lost 2nd Edition products to Studio2‘s store! See them here: https://studio2publishing.com/collections/all-products/changeling-the-lost

Scarred Lands (Pathfinder) books are also on sale at Studio2, and they have the 5e version, supplements, and dice as well!: https://studio2publishing.com/collections/scarred-lands

Scion 2e books and other products are available now at Studio2: https://studio2publishing.com/blogs/new-releases/scion-second-edition-book-one-origin-now-available-at-your-local-retailer-or-online

Looking for our Deluxe or Prestige Edition books? Try this link! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

And you can order Pugmire, Monarchies of Mau, Cavaliers of Mars, and Changeling: The Lost 2e at the same link! And NOW Scion Origin and Scion Hero are available to order!

Running RIGHT NOW until August 11 is the Dog Days Of Summer Sale! 50% many of our Deluxe Editions!

As always, you can find most of Onyx Path’s titles at DriveThruRPG.com!

On Sale This Week!

This Wednesday, we’re putting the PDF of Heroes for the World on sale, which is the collection of ready-made characters for Scion Second Edition!

Conventions!

Save Against Fear: October 12th – 14th GameHoleCon: October 31st – November 3rd We’ll also be back at PAX Unplugged later this year!

And now, the new project status updates!

DEVELOPMENT STATUS FROM EDDY WEBB (projects in bold have changed status since last week):

First Draft (The first phase of a project that is about the work being done by writers, not dev prep)

M20 Victorian Mage (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Exalted Essay Collection (Exalted)

Dragon-Blooded Novella #2 (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Exigents (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Terra Firma (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Crucible of Legends (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Many-Faced Strangers – Lunars Companion (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Contagion Chronicle: Global Outbreaks (Chronicles of Darkness)

W20 Shattered Dreams Gift Cards (Werewolf: The Apocalypse 20th)

W20 Art Book (Werewolf: The Apocalypse 20th)

Yugman’s Guide to Ghelspad (Scarred Lands)

Vigil Watch (Scarred Lands)

Pirates of Pugmire KS-Added Adventure (Realms of Pugmire)

Player’s Guide to the Contagion Chronicle (Chronicles of Darkness)

Contagion Chronicle Jumpstart (Chronicles of Darkness)

Lunars Novella (Rosenberg) (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Redlines

Monsters of the Deep (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Tales of Aquatic Terror (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Kith and Kin (Changeling: The Lost 2e)

Scion: Demigod (Scion 2nd Edition)

Titanomachy (Scion 2nd Edition)

Wraith20 Fiction Anthology (Wraith: The Oblivion 20th Anniversary Edition)

Trinity Continuum Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum Core)

Second Draft

Tales of Good Dogs – Pugmire Fiction Anthology (Pugmire)

Dragon-Blooded Novella #1 (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Across the Eight Directions (Exalted 3rd Edition)

One Foot in the Grave Jumpstart (Geist: The Sin-Eaters 2e)

Development

M20 The Technocracy Reloaded (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Creatures of the World Bestiary (Scion 2nd Edition)

Heirs to the Shogunate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Scion Companion: Mysteries of the World (Scion 2nd Edition)

Cults of the Blood Gods (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Legendlore core book (Legendlore)

City of the Towered Tombs (Cavaliers of Mars)

TC: Aeon Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition core rulebook (Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition)

Masks of the Mythos (Scion 2nd Edition)

Scion: Dragon (Scion 2nd Edition)

Manuscript Approval

WoD Ghost Hunters (World of Darkness)

Geist 2e Fiction Anthology (Geist: The Sin-Eaters 2nd Edition)

Creatures of the World Bestiary (Scion 2nd Edition)

Oak, Ash, and Thorn: Changeling: The Lost 2nd Companion (Changeling: The Lost 2nd)

Editing

Night Horrors: Nameless and Accursed (Mage: the Awakening Second Edition)

Lunars: Fangs at the Gate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Heroic Land Dwellers (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Pirates of Pugmire (Realms of Pugmire)

TC: Aeon Ready-Made Characters (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Hunter: The Vigil 2e core (Hunter: The Vigil 2nd Edition)

Chicago Folio/Dossier (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

City of the Towered Tombs (Cavaliers of Mars)

Post-Editing Development

Memento Mori (Geist: The Sin-Eaters 2e Companion)

DR:E Threat Guide – Helnau’s Guide to Wasteland Beasties (Dystopia Rising: Evolution)

DR:E Jumpstart (Dystopia Rising: Evolution)

Indexing

ART DIRECTION FROM MIKE CHANEY!

In Art Direction

Contagion Chronicle – Art buy configured. Notes getting configured.

VtR Spilled Blood – All the art that is in is approved. Felipe is working on stuff.

Trinity Continuum Aeon: Distant Worlds

Trinity Continuum Aberrant

Hunter: The Vigil 2e

Ex3 Lunars

They Came from Beneath the Sea! – Contracted

TCfBtS!: Heroic Land Dwellers

Night Horrors: Nameless and Accursed

Ex3 Monthly Stuff

DR:E Threat Guide – Helnau’s Guide to Wasteland Beasties – Gonna just get Michele to do this one

DR:E Jumpstart – Sam Denmark is doing this.

Deviant for KS – Contracted.

In Layout

M20 Book of the Fallen – Files with Josh

CoM – Witch Queen of the Shadowed Citadel

Dark Eras 2 – Files with Aileen

Proofing

Shunned By the Moon – Errata gathering.

Aeon Aexpansion

C20 Cup of Dreams

V5: Chicago – Backer PDF sent, errata coming in

Geist 2e

Signs of Sorcery – Inputting errata.

At Press

Dragon Blooded – Deluxe at Studio2, shipping after Gen Con.

Dragon-Blooded Cloth Map – At Studio2, shipping after Gen Con.

Dragon-Blooded Screen – Shipped to Studio2, shipping after Gen Con.

Trinity Core Screen – At Studio2.

TC Aeon Screen – At Studio2.

Book of Oblivion – PoD proofs coming.

Trinity: In Media Res – PoD proofs coming.

Scion Ready-Made Characters – PoD proofs coming, out this week in PDF.

Trinity Core – Files uploaded to printer, waiting for proofs.

Trinity Aeon – Files uploaded to printer, waiting for proofs.

DR: E – final PDF off for approval

Today’s Reason to Celebrate!

The stress and excitement of Gen Con is over for the time being and we can start working on PAX Unplugged, Save Against Fear, and all the rest! Also Gen Con looks as if it was a great success for us, our fans, and our freelancers. (Additionally, Rich and Eddy are on vacation, and I hope they’re having a grand time! That said, Eddy needs to come back so I can ping him with ridiculous things on Skype throughout the day.)

If you went to Gen Con this year, what was your favorite thing there? If you didn’t go, what announcements did you enjoy or what do you hope to do there in the future? Tell us in the comments!

#Onyx Path Publishing

[dresupi]

hard pressed

Darcyland Crack Challenge 2019 |  Day 2: An Unexplainable Predicament to Explain | 

Ship: Bruce Banner/Darcy Lewis |  Prompt: Day 2 - An unexplainable predicament to explain |  Rated: M |  Word Count: 1422 |  Other Tags:  Adult Situations, Dum-E. Crack, Established Relationship, Fade to Black, Implied Sexual Situations, Humor | 

Summary:

Bruce walks in on Darcy doing something… well, it's something alright.

Darcy's got some explaining to do, and the best way to do that is just complete honesty.

No matter how crazy it sounds.

Bruce didn't like to think of himself as someone who stuck his nose where it didn't belong. In fact, he usually only went one of three places in the new Avengers complex. The first was the lab, which was considerably smaller than the older one Tony had set up in Avengers Tower, but it was still pretty substantial. The second was his apartment. And the third was Darcy's.

So he wasn't really involved with any of the interpersonal drama, so to speak. Darcy filled him in on almost everything, but he wasn't in the thick of it.

Which was why he really wished he hadn't walked into the thick of… whatever this was. Even if it did involve his girlfriend.  All he wanted was to duck into Darcy's office and check to see if she wanted a coffee from the kitchen. But now… this.

At first glance, it looked as though Darcy was controlling Dum-E through an app on her phone, instructing him to push against a panel by the open door, which was innocuous enough by itself. Darcy liked to fiddle with the bots, and Tony was only too happy to give her quick lessons. But there was something significantly off this time.

Since Bruce was standing in the open door, Dum-E was rolling toward him. With an insanely huge dildo duct taped to his arm extension.

He liked to think of himself as a fairly smart guy, but there weren't enough pieces to this puzzle. Bruce tilted his head before speaking, but it didn't help his confusion at all. "Um… what?"

Darcy looked at him like this was completely a normal, everyday occurrence. Like she always secured sex toys to the bots, and Bruce was the one with the problem. "What-what?"

Bruce raised his eyebrows. "Not to be one of those guys, but I have to ask... what are you making Dum-E do? Is that thing strapped to his arm what I think it is? What are you making him do with it? And why?"

"Okay, you only asked me one what. There were two extra 'whats' and a 'why' in there too."

Bruce sighed. "Okay. How's this? What? Why? And Darcy???"

She pressed something on her phone to pause the bot's progress and pocketed it, holding both palms out in front of her in mock surrender before she spoke. "Okay, so there is a completely logical explanation for this, and you'll just have to bear with me until I get through it.. Firstly, and most important, Tony grounded me from my door."

He opened his mouth to speak, but she shushed him and continued. "And before you even suggest it, this is what happens when I ask FRIDAY for help." She looked up at the ceiling. "FRIDAY? Can you shut my office door?"

"No, Ms. Lewis. Mr. Stark says it's better for you to 'move your ass'. It's good for blood flow."

She shot Bruce a frustrated look.

"FRIDAY can shut my office door," he mused, figuring there was more coming. When it came to Tony and Darcy, there always was.

"Yeah, but I regularly ride Tony's rear end for not going home and going to sleep and for practically living in this lab like some kind of goblin, so he's getting me back by forcing me to do business without an office door. Which you think wouldn't be a big deal, but you have no idea how many of the little interns want to stop and chat. Or how chatty Scott can be. About everything." She gestured around to her desk. "I have so much crap piling up and I need to close this."

"Why don't you just… apologize to Tony and get your door back?"

"And let him win, Banner? If I let him win, then he'll know he has a wild card and I need at least the illusion of control or Tony will lapse into full-goblin. No one wants that. You don't remember full-goblin, because the Other Guy yeeted you into outer space. You weren't even on the planet for the last full-goblin episode."

Bruce reached out and pressed the button, closing the door easily. "There."

"Yeah, are you going to stay in here with me? Because that's the only way it stays closed. You have to be in here for the door to stay closed."

That was true. "I mean, I could, but I have some stuff that I…"

"Right? So just… leave me and Dum-E and Nixon to our experiment."

Bruce glanced over at the dildo, a veiny, comically large phallus that Dum-E was sporting. Apparently named Nixon.

"Nixon?" he asked, gesturing towards the extra appendage.

"Tricky Dick," she countered with a shrug.

He smirked, reaching up to cover his mouth with his hand. "Of course. Can I ask why he's here as well?"

"Well… Dum-E can't press the panel, it requires something with more… heft? Something meatier? That thing's pretty thick. And made of silicone. I figure if it can work for a vagina, it'll work for a door."

"There's a sentence I didn't think I'd ever hear…" Bruce muttered, folding his arms and stepping back behind Darcy. "So try it. I need to see the end of this saga before I'll be able to focus on my work."

Darcy unpaused the program and started it up again. Dum-E slowly moved towards the panel, and when the dildo pressed against the contact area, it did nothing.

She sighed heavily. "Goddammit, Tony."

"Sorry Nixon failed you…" Bruce said, crossing the floor to remove it from Dum-E's 'arm'. It was green. Veiny. Definitely something else vaguely interesting about it. He froze, his gaze catching a seal at the non-business end. It was licensed. And hell if he didn't recognize from where.

"Is this a… Hulk dildo?" he asked, somewhere between alarmed and surprised Not that he and Darcy didn't engage in amorous adventures, because they did.

Never anything with this… girth, but to each their own.

The toy wasn't accurate, not that it mattered.

"What…" His mouth fell open and Darcy quickly scurried over to him, ripping the silicone monstrosity from his hands. "Okay, so I know this looks awful, but I have an explanation for this too."

He blinked, not upset in the slightest. More amused than anything else. Amused and inquisitive. "And I'd like to hear it."

"First off, this hasn't been used by me."

"Okay… not sure if that's better or worse..."

She blushed and reached out to playfully swat his arm. "I got it from Pepper's bachelorette party. I won some naughty raffle and that was the grand prize. Since the party was here in the lab, I just tossed it in my desk drawer and forgot about it until today."

"It's a Hulk… product."

She grinned. "It is. It's like… a novelty. I'm sure women don't use them…" She didn't even sound like she believed that, but Bruce couldn't really help but laugh a little.

"It's… it's fine. Far be it for me to judge…"

She narrowed her eyes in a mock-glare."I don't use it. I'd be the first to tell  you if I did."

He reached over to wrap his arm around her waist, pulling her close. "Hey, I'm just kidding, okay?"

"Yeah, yeah. I still wish it would have closed the door. Might have been actually useful…"

Bruce reached around behind her back, grabbing the toy and stowing it in his bag. He reached for her hand and tugged her towards the door.

"It's not even close to lunchtime…" she said, taking a few steps before stopping.

"Figured we could play hookey until Tony gives you back your door…" Bruce said, leaning down to nuzzle her neck."We could go to your place… see if we could find another use for Nixon here…"

"Dr. Banner…" She raised her eyebrows, her tone rising like she was scandalized, but Bruce knew her better than to believe that for a second.

He mirrored her expression, catching the blush rising in her cheeks and thrilling a little.

"Okay, so like everyone who ever said you were a nice boy lied to me," Darcy said, laughing. "You are not a nice boy if you want to use that on me."

"I don't want to use it on you. I just want to watch.."

"Still. You're a dirty, dirty, boy." Darcy teased.

"Hey. You're the one with this…" He gestured towards his bag. "You're the corrupting influence."

"I've never heard any complaints," she countered, following him out the door.

"And you won't."

#Tasersmash #Darcy/Bruce #Bruce Banner #Darcy Lewis #dlaf2019 #slight lemon #fade to black #Crack Challenge

[queenlua]

trusting fiction

tl;dr: wow, uh, this got long. literary musings ahead, if that’s your thing!  but the upshot is, this manga is really good so far and someone should read it with me :P

“Trust” is a word you hear thrown around a lot, when readers talk about particular authors.  Le Guin once wrote about her first time trying to read José Saramago’s Blindness:

“. . . I began to get scared. The story was, to put it mildly, a nightmare.  Tough-minded thrillers I’d read were custard sauce to this.  The idea of everyone in a city suddenly going blind, not all at once but at random over several days, is fairly horrible in itself; Saramago’s even, quiet narrative tone brings the horror home as he describes it through the eyes (all too literally) of one ordinary person after another.  Despite or because of governmental efforts at control, the city soon begins to break down—cars driven by blind drivers, fires in homes, panicky soldiers faced with panicky citizens.  A disused mental hospital where the early blind are locked away very soon becomes a hellish concentration of the worst that terror and weakness can bring out in people—bullying, enslavement, gratuitous cruelty, rape... At this point I stopped reading the book.  I couldn’t handle it.

To read on, to be willing to read about terrible cruelty, I had to trust the author unquestioningly, the way one trusts Primo Levi.  I had to know that Saramago was not merely putting on a horror show, exploiting his power over his readers.  I was quite ready to admit the power, his Dostoyevskian gift for communicating suffering, but I needed to trust him enough to let him tell me this fearful story in the confidence that he’d make it worth enduring.  The only way to find out if he deserved such trust was to read his other books.  So I did.”

He did end up earning that trust, by the way.

I most recently heard about this “trust” in a different context—a notable editor for a short story magazine said that a really good first page, even a really good first paragraph, can make you trust the author, make you say: damn, they are going someplace, someplace good, and I know they’re going to take me there.  

Firstly because it’s competent writing—no grammar errors, no words badly out of place.  But mere competence doesn’t earn trust.  (That was another interesting bit from this editor; rarely does he get story submissions that are obviously lacking.  But you can’t get a story published that’s just fine.)

Rather, the trust is usually bound to some keen and startling detail, some striking turn of phrase, or something that makes you laugh—a thing that convinces you an author has absolute command of their story.

You can probably think of such a moment, in something you’ve read.  I think of the finest short story I ever had the pleasure of workshopping in college, centering around an arranged marriage in Hassidic Jewish community in New York City—a culture and a city that I knew nothing about—but they portrayed it with such keen detail (they either had firsthand experience, or researched the shit out of the subject) and such tenderness, that by the time the central couple spoke their first words to each other as a married couple (and those words were so perfect—awkward, and nervous, and kind), I realized, by God, this is gorgeous, it’s only been a few pages but I want so much for these humans and I’m going to read every other page about them that’s here.

(...I wonder if she ever published that, now that I think of it.  Hm.)

I think very dense or inventive fantasy/science-fiction has to earn your trust, in a similar way, and it has to do it before your bafflement overwhelms your trust.  I remember reading Too Like the Lightning, a novel with ridiculously dense worldbuilding—and I remember laughing so hard at a relatively early bit, where deep in the midst of a tense multinational political discussion, I realized one character was panicking in Lovecraftian manner over a doomsday prophecy in the form of a damn mathematical economic model!  That’s probably the moment when Palmer “won” me—this is the kind of book that blurs the fantastic and the mundane so smoothly that I may not even realize it until I’m halfway through a chapter, and it’ll make me laugh—though she won me over in a hundred other smaller ways roundabout there.  (I’m far from the first to comment on the whole “I don’t know what you’re doing but you have me in your clutches” allure that book has.)

((Similarly, shouts to Cat Valente’s Silently and Very Fast, which won me over the second I realized the super-AI had once been a house built by an eccentric genius on the coast of Shiretoko, with foxes and bears snuffling in the night outside.  How oddly, charmingly specific.  It helped that I’m in love with Hokkaido, of course.))

Anyway.

I was thinking about all this, because I’m trembling with excitement after finishing volume one of “Go with the Clouds, North-by-Northwest,” a manga I bought on total impulse this weekend, because I was at a local store and the shopkeeper was nice and there were birds on the cover.

It’s not trust—at least, not in any of the senses that I mentioned above (the author being horrific but not gratuitous, the author convincing me via some crucial detail that this story is going someplace solid, the author convincing me if I just “go with” the worldbuilding it will pay off beautifully).  It is probably far harder for a manga/comic author to earn my trust, probably takes far longer, because even if the art is gorgeous—and my God, the art in this volume is gorgeous—well, we’ve all read our share of comics that were visually gorgeous but ultimately proved hollow, and failed to connect.

For me, the thing that will earn my trust is the story, and since comic panels move more slowly than the written word, it takes longer for me to feel like I really know any given character, or the shape of the plot, well enough to trust them.  I managed six volumes of Pluto, for instance, before I gave up, realized that it just wasn’t my thing.

The feeling I got out of this manga wasn’t trust, exactly—much more like the feeling of a giddy, nervous, but overall-splendid first date.  It helps that he’s good to look at (did I mention the art is gorgeous? and such a fun setting; I’ve never thought overmuch about Iceland, but the vast panoramas of windswept grasses and winding roads we see made me want to go there, badly).  The story’s primary conceits (our protagonist’s grandpa can talk to birds; the protagonist himself can talk to machines) are subtle so far, and border on magical realism—it’s not like the car talks back to the protagonist, not in any way we can see.  But he banters as he drives, as if to no one in particular, but afterwards just knows things about the car, stuff he couldn’t know any other way.  He leverages this little talent into a knack for finding shit for other people, teenage-detective-style.

There may be other characters with similar knacks, too—we get a hint of it in the last chapter—but it’s hard to know for sure, and I like it that way.  I don’t want it to veer into supernatural shenanigans; I like the idea of lots of only-very-slightly-magical people making sense of what their sixth senses are telling them.  But that subtlety means I need to watch it longer, so I can see where it’s going with all this, quietly-oh-so-quietly.

There’s a bit of the haha-grandpa’s-kind-of-a-pervy-old-man humor going on in this volume.  Mercifully very little, but still, sigh.  (It’s a first date and his sense of humor seems a little immature—is this a triviality to be overlooked? or a sign of deeper trouble?)

And, as is all-too-common in manga, the first volume ends just when I feel like we’re digging into something meaty—what’s the deal with his younger brother?—and now I’ve gotta either wait until August or go scrounge up a fan translation to read what happens next.

So no, I don’t trust North-by-Northwest absolutely yet, but it got a lot right, and I’m just thrilled by the possibility of this thing, this serendipitous gorgeous little book.  I smile when he texts the next day, I’m rereading the pages of what just happened, maybe it just ends up being a weirdly-paced standard detective manga, or maybe he’s The One.

Meanwhile I trust that next Friday it’ll give me a good time, something new to change up the pace a bit.

#writing about writing

[brokehorrorfan]

Event Report: Rock and Shock 2018

The Rock and Shock horror convention and concert series invaded the DCU Center and The Palladium in Worcester, MA last weekend, October 12-14. This year marked the 15th annual event, boasting a decade and a half of the biggest names in horror movies and alternative music descending upon New England every Halloween season.

I had the honor of hosting two panels on Friday night. The first featured New England Horror Writers members Jack Haringa, Rob Smales, Trisha Wooldridge, and Steve Van Samson. Their discussions of their writing careers, their approach, and their experiences with small press provided invaluable insight to the aspiring writers in the audience. For my second panel I was joined by Dawn of the Dead with stars Scott Reiniger and Gaylen Ross to celebrate the film's 40th anniversary. The old friends reflected on the landmark zombie movie and working with the late, great George A. Romero.

Saturday kicked off with a panel with the charismatic Ted Raimi (Evil Dead II). He opened with what was essentially a 10-minute standup routine about the Worcester/Boston area before answering questions. Fittingly, he even received a special microphone so he could stand up to address the crowd rather than sit behind the table. The actor spoke highly of Deadwax, the Shudder original series on which he recently worked, stating that he didn't want it to end. He also revealed that Lunatics: A Love Story, the 1991 comedy/romance film in which he stars, is finally coming to DVD for the first time soon.

Raimi's panel was followed by an equally entertaining but entirely different session with author Joe Knetter. It was billed as a reading from I, Survivor, the new Victor Crowley tie-in novel that he co-wrote with filmmaker Adam Green, but he only read a brief passage. The rest of the time was filled by Knetter - who admitted he was “floating on an edible” - musing from collaborating with Green to playing the killer in the upcoming Hanukkah alongside horror icons Sid Haig, Caroline Williams, and P.J. Soles. His raunchy and self-deprecating humor extended to his longtime girlfriend, indie scream queen Sarah French, who watched from the audience. It was a unique and hilarious experience.

Later in the day, Malcolm McDowell took the stage to answer fan questions. He discussed his seminal roles in Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange and Rob Zombie's Halloween films. (After admitting that he his still never seen John Carpenter's original Halloween, a fan gifted him with a VHS copy the next day.) The gregarious Brit spoke about some of his less publicized performances as well, including the recent fun he had doing Lunchables commercials. "Thank God they paid me a shit load of money," he mused.

On Sunday, Bill Moseley (The Devil’s Rejects), Andrew Divoff (Wishmaster),and R.A. Mihailoff (Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III) took over the panel room to discuss their legacies as icons of horror in a Q&A, which you can watch in its entirety here. Moseley was unfortunately unable to disclose any details on Rob Zombie’s Three From Hell, but it was a fun chat nonetheless. Divoff shared a particularly enlightening story about being an action figure.

For various reasons, several beloved Rock and Shock traditions were absent this year: the costume contest, the film festival, and the supergroup cover band The Rocking Dead. I hope to see them all reinstated in the future, but Sunday saw the launch of a new favorite tradition: a children's costume contest, hosted by Fiona's Fright Shoppe. A gaggle of adorable children dressed as killers from movies they've (hopefully) never seen proudly showed off their cosplay. Chucky took home first prize, with Dani from Hocus Pocus and IT's Pennywise placing second and third, respectively. It was truly heartwarming.

Next door at The Palladium, concerts took place throughout the weekend, beginning with a sold-out kick-off show from Ice Nine Kills on Thursday. Horrorcore hip-hop duo Twiztid headlined on Friday. Saturday offered a night of Swedish/Finnish metal featuring Amorphis, Dark Tranquility, and Wintersun. Two different shows took place on Sunday: downstairs was headlined by heavy metal titans Trivium, while hardcore stalwarts Terror brought the mosh upstairs.

In addition to the aforementioned names, other celebrity guests who met with fans throughout the weekend included Linda Blair (The Exorcist), making her Rock and Shock debut, along with Derek Mears (Friday the 13th), James Marshall (Twin Peaks), Dana Ashbrook (Twin Peaks), Jeremy Davies (Justified), William Forsythe (The Devil's Rejects), and Kelli Maroney (Chopping Mall), among others.

Per usual, the vendor room was loaded with horror DVDs, Blu-rays, toys, shirts, collectibles, artwork, handmade goods, tattoo artists, and more, but it was laid out differently this year. The floor space itself was smaller, but the configuration of the booths made it feel just as full. In addition the regulars, I was happy to find quite a few new faces and products among the vendors. I hope to see the Rock and Shock family to continue to grow in future years.

Click here to see all of my Rock and Shock 2018 photos.

#rock and shock #ted raimi #derek mears #bill moseley #cosplay #halloween #halloween costumes #dawn of the dead #freddy krueger #hocus pocus #pennywise #malcolm mcdowell #linda blair #event report #article