#hart legacy extras

[behrbiedoll]

NOEL HART'S LOOKBOOK ★

[puretopia]

[mosneakers]

i love your story soooo much but i definitely started reading... a bit late haha. do you have a plot recap of any kind? or a family tree? sometimes i try to pick things up on context clues and end up totally wrong

omg yeah so no worries most readers actually started late! My stories and lore are super extensive and there's only a select few who've been around since the very beginning, because it would take a super long time to read everything, so I'm always happy to support you with wherever you'd like to hop in and start your journey!

Again the lore is extensive, but here is a Darling family tree you can click through to visualize all the generations Darling family members My masterpost is a good landing page for getting an idea of where to begin. I plan on updating that after this season is over, but it's still very helpful 😊

If I can try to sum it up the best I can, essentially:

Every Darling generation is part of a magical legacy that must choose an heir to pick a ghost to resurrect from the dead, that will carry on the legacy with them. However, there's always been talk amongst the family, a legend if you will, of a family curse tied to love. So as you can imagine, while each generation works so hard to find their happily ever after, each time it seems to get more and more complicated. Coraleye Darling is the youngest of generation 4, and the first female heir. It was going to be her brother, Sunglo, but he didn't have what it takes. Coraleye is a hopeless romantic family sim who wears her heart on her sleeve and can come across as very naive in most cases. Coraleye entered a mutually beneficial marriage with resurrected sim and lifelong family friend Mira Salas (now Mira Darling) to not only fulfill the legacy rules, but to appease Mira's power-hungry vampire mother, Tatiana Salas, who has recently been elected president of the United Worlds of Simerica. Mira also recently entered a second marriage with Coraleye's distant cousin lesser-known actress, and most extra (see family tree) Starling Sparrow (now Starling Darling) While all this was happening, Coraleye was attending university in Britechester, and slowly falling in love with the one and only Tycho Curious, roommate and best friend of her brother, Sunglo. During their time at Britechester, Coraleye, formed a tight knit group of friends who had pretty much become main characters in the story. Tycho simultaneously had his own story being interwoven into the legacy, throwing a wrench into everything. He was in love with Coraleye from the very moment he saw her, so he kept his alien identity hidden from his friends (except for form alien girlfriend Coni Breeder) and everytime he gathered the courage to tell her, he'd backtrack and erase her memory, continuing the facade. As the season comes to a close, the group has slowly but surely fallen apart, with a dramatic ending delivered in a documentary format by filmmakers Alex Hart and Cameron Rai.

There are of course many other cousins, siblings, spares, and side characters, all who have in-depth personalities and thoughts as well, but this is the main gist. I am totally open (and eagerly encourage!) questions and dialogue if you'd like more in depth answers on specific topics or characters. There's a whole universe out there to explore so the inbox is always open please make good use of it ♥

[the-golden-comet]

✨Composition Analysis: Into The Ashes✨

I’m back with another Composition Analysis from my Peter Hart soundtrack, courtesy of @gioiaalbanoart ✨

Without further ado, the Titular Piece. As always, use headphones or earbuds for the best listening experience:

Into the Ashes

“Into the Ashes” was named after The Golden Phoenix. Before Peter became the captain, his father Johnathan Hart was commanding The Phoenix. Proceeding a long battle with an enemy ship, The Phoenix was nearly sunk. However, as it is named The Phoenix, it dove into the ashes and rose back from them to sail the sea again.

After Captain Hart I’s death, Captain Hart II (Peter) rebranded the vessel as The Golden Phoenix to honor his father’s legacy, while also giving rise to a new era.

This movement is in 3 distinct parts, with an overarching melody passed between accordion, flute, and strings. The meter is 6/8, to give a “rocking” feeling like the ocean. Swells in the strings represent the waves rolling over in the sea, and the deep baritone/bass parts are added because yes. ✨

At the end of each section is a little “Pirate motif” that I used in the previous analysis post, as well as a few other movements in the Peter Hart soundtrack.

The song opens with the “drums of war” (one of my favorite opens). The tambourine is heard playing both on the beat and in syncopated rhythms for extra pizazz. An accordion takes the melody on the first part, while harmonies fall to the harp and the delicious choir of men.

Then, the melody is passed to the flute for Part II. Some minor embellishments are added to the flute to mimic the rising and falling of the waves. Lots of grace notes added to put a distinct spin to the melody shown in Part I.

Then, Part III. This part was FUUUUUN 🎵

We introduce Part III with a stagger rhythm, as the waves get a little chopper, and the seafaring adventures take a more treacherous turn. The flute and accordion are paired on the melody line with strings, and even more embellishments, as they anxiously try to catch up to the impending storm of accelerandos.

The ending of the piece slows down to signify that the boat has broken out of the storm, into the calmer seas, and is ready to sail another day ⛵️✨

I hope you enjoyed this analysis! Tag list below the cut for people who may/may not be interested in this (+ or - me if you want to be added or removed 💖)

Tag list: @gioiaalbanoart @wyked-ao3 @autism-purgatory @lychhiker-writes @thatuselesshuman @theverumproject @sunglasses-in-the-bentley @tabswrites @fortunatetragedy @bookish-karina @alinacapellabooks

[ofwrxth]

BASICS

Full Name: Rowan “Ro” Hart

Age & Birthday: 30, 

Hometown: Carlin, Nevada

Current Residence: New Horizon Motel

Occupation: Scammer, Bartender at the Prairie Dog Saloon & Grill

DETAILS

Family Legacy: The Harts have absolutely no history or standing in Clearwater. Their reputation is fairly new and depends entirely on Rowan and Bianca’s actions on a daily basis.

Favorite Spot in Town: Honestly, he likes the Motel because he can sleep. 

Hidden Talent or Hobby: Rowan is an animal whisperer. He’s never met one that didn’t like him. Despite his wild manner, they seem to get a sense of calm from him. 

PERSONALITY

Core Traits: Clever, Convincing, Fearless, Innovative, Relentless Caustic, Cunning, Smug, Unpredictable, Volatile 

Strengths: Rowan is always a step ahead, using his cleverness to manipulate situations in his favor and outthink others. His ability to convince others makes him a master of persuasion—he can talk his way out of (or into) almost anything with ease. Rowan thrives in high-pressure environments, and his fearlessness means he’ll take risks others shy away from, often leading to unexpected wins. His innovative mindset allows him to find unconventional solutions, and he’s relentless when it comes to getting what he wants, pushing through obstacles without hesitation. He’s cunning, always plotting, and knows exactly how to twist a situation to serve his purposes.

Weaknesses: Rowan's confidence can easily slip into smugness, and it’s not uncommon for others to find him arrogant. He’s unpredictable and volatile, which means he can turn on a dime, making him difficult to work with long-term. His caustic nature pushes people away—he doesn’t hold back on biting remarks, and his sharp tongue often leaves others feeling alienated or on edge. While his cunning can be an asset, it also means he’s constantly scheming, sometimes to his own detriment. His relentless drive can make him single-minded to the point of recklessness, ignoring consequences in favor of his end goal, regardless of who gets hurt in the process.

What Keeps Them Up at Night, If Anything?: Rowan has the annoying ability to close his eyes and drop right into REM.  There’s no tossing and turning for him. He’ll leave that to Bee. 

How Do They Handle Conflict?: He’s an instigator, shit stirrer, goader-on-er and general menace. He delights in fights, finding other people’s anger amusing. He tends to get dragged into his fair share by his sister but he never minds because they’re fun to him and never anything that serious. 

HISTORY

Backstory: 

Rowan was born trailer trash and he figured he’d stay that way, to some degree or another. It wasn’t like their parents had vision or a desire to change their situation. Willow and Duncan Hart weren’t people who strove for more. Instead they squabbled over limited resources rather than getting more. Rowan didn’t exactly resent his parents (they weren’t worth resenting really), but he didn’t stray from opportunities. Chances to make a bit of extra cash here or there. All he had to do is tell a little lie for John-John (the local thug) or wait for Bianca to smile sweetly at some ladies before he grabbed their purses and made off with it. They were better together and from a young age knew that if they wanted to do something with their lives, they’d have to stick together. 

It wasn’t planned but it seemed they always knew the only way out was out. Leaving it all behind. It was the first bit of fresh air and freedom Rowan breathed and he knew he’d never go back. They traveled along in their father’s stolen truck, spending their mother’s stolen money and began life as their own sort of Bonnie and Clyd. 

Las Vegas never saw them coming. They ran little scams and cons to keep food on the table, with Rowan providing much needed muscle to Bee’s cunning. His volatile nature lent itself to violence and maybe that was where the trailer trash came in. He was his father’s son. Fists crunching into jaws. Laughing with a bloody smile. Ro thrived in the chaos of it all.  

When Duncan filed a report for his truck, he didn’t worry. The Hart siblings were cunning as they came and their survival was a testament to their will. They weren’t easily frightened and they were good at what they did. Their lives were chaotic and unplanned, but so were they. From fleeting stops in towns and cities, they’d stay as long as they could, just enough to make connections and friends, before dipping to their next location. Nothing ever lasted forever but that didn’t mean they didn’t enjoy what they had when they had it. 

But sometimes their enjoyment and aspirations went a step too far. They messed with the wrong person in North Dakota, swindling twenty grand from the wrong person. It sent them off on their next adventure, deciding to keep it and face the consequences head on if they ever caught up to them.

Clearwater became their escape a few months ago, both siblings on their best behavior despite running scams in Ridgeview. They were balancing on a knife’s edge but wasn’t that what made life more exciting? Ro certainly thought so. Besides, he was keen to stretch his acting skills and show that he really was an upstanding citizen. Despite being the opposite. 

Current Situation: 

Ro bartends amongst other odd jobs around town. He keeps an ear to the ground for any tips on potential marks but, for the most part, comes across as just another dude figuring out life in a small town. They’re still sitting on that twenty grand, figuring out how to clean it enough so they can actually use it without being traced.

How Do They Feel About the Changes in Clearwater?:

He doesn’t have any investment one way or another but it does seem like everything is a bit more expensive than you’d think of in a small town. So he’s not a fan of that. 

CONNECTIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS

Reputation in Clearwater: 

Ro comes off as just another guy making a living. He’s friendly at the bar, remembering names and facts people have told him to come off as a really congenial person. He’s kept fights to a minimum, only stepping in when it seemed like someone was definitely in the wrong. Bee keeps reminding him that just because he can doesn’t mean he should and if she’s holding her tongue to get into the town’s good graces, then he’s got to pull his punches. 

Important Relationships: 

Bianca, The Dog regulars/coworkers, Hunter (the short king his sister helped out)

Potential Story Hooks: 

Things catching up to Ro and Bee, Ro making real friends that would make leaving harder, someone needing his help and he steps in for altruistic reasons rather than pure gain, rivals.

[posi-pan]

2022 books with pan rep 📚

At the time of posting previous lists, there were 57 books in 2020 and 141 in 2021. This year, there are 176!

30 Things I Love about Myself by Radhika Sanghani

Ablaze by A.H. Cunningham

All I’m Asking by J. Marie Rundquist

Apparition by Zahlia Amin

Attraction (Mobsters + Billionaires #3) by Kelly Fox

Bad At Love by Gabriela Martins

Barcelona (Circus After Dark #3) by Chloe Adler

The Barkeep and the Bookseller by V.L. Locey

Barnabas Bopwright Saves the City by J. Marshall Freeman

Bartholomew (The Temple Brothers #2) by Elle Sparrow

Ben and Beatriz by Katalina Gamarra

Bishop’s Opening by R.S.A Garcia

Bitter Medicine by Mia Tsai

Blood Bound (Youkai Bloodlines #3) by Courtney Maguire

Blood Legacy (Avators of Ruin #2) by Tej Turner

Bloodmarked (Legendborn #2) by Tracy Deonn

Bound (Fangs with Benefits #3) by Aveda Vice

Bound (Kozlov Chronicles #2) by Elena Sobol

Carnal Cryptids 2: Southeast (Carnal Cryptids #2) by Vera Valentine

Changing the Rules (Rules of the Game: Evanston River Otters #1) by Brigham Vaughn

The Chasm (Finding Humanity #2) by Branwen Oshea

Cold Cases and Bitter Enemies (Cold Case Unit #3) by J.M. Dabney

A Cosmic Kind of Love by Samantha Young

Count Your Lucky Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur

A Cruel and Fated Light (The Hollow Star #2) by Ashley Shuttleworth

Dance with the Devil (Mercenary Librarians #3) by Kit Rocha

The Darkest Edge by Lyra Blake

Dead Draw by Layla Reyne

Death by Society by Sierra Elmore

Dinner with the Schnabels by Toni Jordan

Dominance of the Heart by Char Dafoe

Dragon’s Honor (Irresistible Dragons #2) by Nora Phoenix

Dreams Bigger Than Heartbreak (Unstoppable #2) by Charlie Jane Anders

D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding by Chenica C. Higgins

The Edge of Being by James Brandon

Electric Idol (Dark Olympus #2) by Katee Robert

Epilogues of Lost Gods (Unwritten Runes #2) by Cat Rector

Errant Vol. 1 (Errant #1) by L.K. Fleet

Eternal Hoptimist by Lee Blair

Every Word You Never Said by Jordon Greene

Exodus 20:3 by Freydís Moon

Extra Witchy (Fix-It Witches #3) by Ann Aguirre

Fabricated by Zoe Lee

The Fae Keeper (The Witch King #2) by H.E. Edgmon

The Fake Date by Trisha Bradley

Fate in Suspension (Horn & Haven #1) by Archer Kay Leah

Fault Tolerance (Chilling Effect #3) by Valerie Valdes

Fight + Flight by Jules Machias

Fighting Monsters: Part One (Fighting Monsters #1) by Sam Hall

Fighting Monsters: Part Two (Fighting Monsters #2) by Sam Hall

Forward March by Skye Quinlan

Furious Heaven (The Sun Chronicles #2) by Kate Elliott

Going Public (Jade Harbor Capital #2) by Hudson Lin

Got Me Looking (Vet Shop Boys #3) by Casey Cox

Griff by Ana Night

Grim and Bear It (Love Me Dead #2) by Heather Novak

Grounded for All Eternity by Darcy Marks

The Heartbreak Handshake by J.R. Hart

Her Stubborn Warrior by Kaylee Pike and Kyra Keys

His Heart Knows by Riley Long

The Hourglass Throne (The Tarot Sequence #3) by K.D. Edwards

Howl Down the Moon by Layla Dorine

How to Love a Dragon (Dragon Tamer #2) by Lila Mina

How We Ricochet by Faith Gardner

I Am Sebastian by Cameron James

I Bought Him, So He’s Mine by Kaylee Pike and Kyra Keys

Icebreaker by A.L. Graziadei

Icebreaker by Hannah Grace

I F-ing Dare You by Emm Darcy

If I Were A Weapon (All These Gifts #1) by Skye Kilaen

The Immortality Trials (The Immortality Trials #1) by Madison Nicole

Incandescent by Christina Lee

Indigo: Nights (Indigo B&B #2) by Adrian J. Smith

Inked Temptation by Carrie Ann Ryan

In the City of Time by Gwendolyn Clare

Irresponsible Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James

It’s Not Unusual To Be Loved by an Alien by Chloe Archer

Jamison by A.N. Waugh

Jilted: Jaren (The Foster Brothers #1) by Nora Phoenix

Just a Touch Away by Jae

Just One Date (Castleton Hearts #5) by Chelsea M. Cameron

Kieran by Avery Tu and Kota Quinn

The Kindred by Alechia Dow

Kink Camp: Hunted by A. Anders

Know It In the Dark (All These Gifts #2) by Skye Kilaen

Kostya the Fallen Star by Melissa Polk

The Last Hero (The First Sister #3) by Linden A. Lewis

Last Resort by Helene Gadot

Lead Me Astray by Sondi Warner

Let Me In (Gods of Hunger #3) by R.M. Virtues

Let the Light Shine Through by A. Marie

Lipstick Lies (The Order Duet #2) by Kris Butler

Lizzie Blake’s Best Mistake by Mazey Eddings

London (Circus After Dark #4) by Chloe Adler

Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly

Love Me Gently by E.M. Dennings

Love You Like That by Scarlett Cole

Lunar New Love by Ophelia Silk

Man o’ War by Cory McCarthy

Match with the Demon by Chace Verity

Meet Me on St. Patrick’s Day by Bryony Rosehurst

Moon Dark Smile (Night Shine #2) by Tessa Gratton

MumFest & Murder (The Java Tavern #2) by Elizabeth Garver

Music Lights & Never Afters by C.L. Matthews

My Roommate Romeo (First Times #1) by Billie Bloom

Nestor (Green Hill Pride #6) by Catherine Lievens

Not Good for Maidens by Tori Bovalino

Not Your Type by Elizabeth Jeannel

Odder Still by D.N. Bryn

Omega’s Study Partner (Sweet in Silford #3) by Hope Bennett

One Night With You by Laura Jane Williams

One Night With You by Sky McCoy

One Step at a Time by Lily Seabrooke

One Week with His Stepbrother (Daddy Tales #3) by Kelex

The One Who Loves You the Most by Medina

Ophelia After All by Racquel Marie

Paris (Circus After Dark #1) by Chloe Adler

Pitcher Perfect (Tap That Brewery #1) by Lee Blair

Playing for Keeps by Jax Calder

Play Me (Dragons Love Curves series #10) by Aidy Award

Pull (Love Is Love #1.5) by Nyla K.

Project Himbo by S.J. Whitby

Promote (Shattered Pawns #3) by Jennifer Cody

Pushing the Limits (Secrets Kept #2) by Riley Hart

Queen of Queens (Our Fae Queen #5) by Traci Lovelot

Queen’s Hope (Star Wars: The Padmé Trilogy #3) by E.K. Johnston

Reaper Hospital: Code Hot Nurse (Their Repear #2) by Lacey Carter Anderson

Recast (Handled #4) by Romilly King

The Redemption by Alexia Chase

Ripped (Kozlov Chronicles #3) by Elena Sobol

Rookie Mistake (On the Board #1) by Anna Zabo and L.A. Witt

Royal Exposé by Jenny Frame

Royal Lines (Boston Rebels #4) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey

Sasha and the Butcher (The Moretti Family #1) by Stephanie Kazowz

The Savior’s Rise (The Windermere Tales #2) by Talli L. Morgan

Scorpica (The Five Queendoms #1) by Greer Macallister

Seize the Castle (A Knight’s Revenge #2) by Elizabeth Dear

Shake Things Up (Love at Knockdown #2) by Skye Kilaen

Silent Secrets (The Secrets of Sorlphi #1) by Miranda May

Silhouette and the Shadows (Silhouette #1) by Delaney Andrews

The Society For Soulless Girls by Laura Steven

So This Is Ever After by F.T. Lukens

Spin the Damn Bottle (All the Games We Play #2) by Emm Darcy

Stiletto Sins (The Order Duet #1) by Kris Butler

Stitched (Kozlov Chronicles #1) by Elena Sobol

Stone Wings (The Gargoyles of Arrington #1) by Jenn Burke

Storm the Gates (A Knight’s Revenge #1) by Elizabeth Dear

A Strange and Stubborn Endurance by Foz Meadows

Sugar Girl by Emma L. McGeown

Sweet to the Core (Lighthouse Bay #3) by Amy Aislin

Temptation Cove (Hot Takes #3) by T.S. Ankney

Tempt Me Tonight by Natasha Washington

A Tended Garden by J.P. Jackson

Thank You, Next by Andie J. Christopher

That Good Mischief (The Nine Worlds Rising #3) by Lyra Wolf

This Cursed Crown (These Feathered Flames #2) by Alexandra Overy

This Wicked Fate (This Poison Heart #2) by Kalynn Bayron

Tracking Trouble (Spellster Universe #2.5) by Aldrea Alien

The Trow of Duncaster by Melissa Polk

Twilight’s Touch (Prairie Smoke Ranch #2) by V.L. Locey

Two Rights Make a Wrong by Chloe Liese

Undeniable (Bainbridge University #4) by Andi Burns

Uninhibited (Bainbridge University #3) by Andi Burns

Unlikely Savior (For the Gods’ Amusement #3) by Catherine Lievens

Untitled (The Councillor #2) by E.J. Beaton

Us Against the World by Shayne Prescott

VAMPS: Fresh Blood by Nicole Arend

Venice (Circus After Dark #2) by Chloe Adler

Violet is Nowhere by Faith Gardner

Warrior Queen (Our Fae Queen #6) by Traci Lovelot

Warwick (Rebel Sky Ranch #4) by Kelly Fox

What’s Mine Is Yours by Willow Renee

When the Walls Come Down by Harper Robson

Wicked Beauty (Dark Olympus #3) by Katee Robert

The Wicked Love by Pru Schuyler

Wrong Hunt by J.S. Harker

Have you read any of these books? Or books with pan rep at all this year? Let me know! Happy Pan Week!

[secretsbehindthenine]

prev posts: 1 2 3 // idol!AU fic

Okay, so I’ve been developing the idol!AU a bit in between other writing projects and college stuff and I just. Came up with a completely new approach to Levander and his whole role in the story.

So, like I’ve said before, the Harts are the founders/owners of Blazing Heart Records, the biggest record label/music production company in all of the United States. They’re legends in the industry and are responsible for establishing the careers of the biggest names in American music. We're talking, like, music royalty-levels of influence and impact.

Levander grew up surrounded by music and watching artists' journeys through the industry from behind the scenes. He would always be by his parents' side as his dad (Daniel Hart) produced music for countless group and solo acts, while his mom (Kiki Kotomoto-Hart) created new looks and styles for those same artists. Because of this, Levander developed a passion for music and dreams of stardom.

I previously said that his dad tried to discourage Levander from a career in music b/c of Levander’s “lack of talent” with the guitar. But now, Daniel’s motivations are rooted in a desire for Levander to be a dutiful son and continue the family legacy. He doesn’t want Levander to be an artist b/c he (and the rest of the family) thinks a Hart’s place in the music industry is in the behind-the-scenes stuff. Management, music production, songwriting, choreography, etc. Harts weren’t made for the limelight; they were responsible for putting talent in it.

So, Daniel does whatever he can to push Levander towards fitting his family's mold and conforming to the Hart standards. He forbids Levander from taking guitar lessons, constantly talks about how harsh and difficult it is to be an artist, and only ever praises Levander’s songwriting and music composition skills. Anything that will make him disregard his dreams of stardom and become a proper Hart.

His mom, on the other hand, is more supportive Levander and his dreams. When she was younger, before she moved to America, Kiki actually tried to become an idol. However, she abandoned her dreams due to pressure and disapproval from her parents. She’s always regretted this decision, and thus was quick to defend her son and help keep his ambitions alive.

When Levander and Rachel passed their initial auditions for Star Demon and were invited to a callback, Kiki filled out the form that parents had to fill out in order to essentially give Star Demon permission to house trainees and act as their guardians during their training period. She also provided extra funds for the two and put one of her cousins in charge of looking out for them while they were in Japan. All behind Daniel’s back.

Suffice to say, the days leading up to Levander's departure from Norrisville was tense.

When Levander’s debut stage airs, Kiki is so proud of her son. But Daniel is. Conflicted.

On one hand, he’s immensely impressed with Levander and his performance. It forces him to acknowledge the fact that his son really does have what it takes to be a performer. However, ruthlessly upheld familial standards are a bitch, and Daniel still thinks Levander is better off being a producer/songwriter. He’s also kind of pissed that his son is now under a rival company and not Blazing Heart Records, so. There’s that.

Meanwhile, after Levander’s trainee debut stage, the higher-ups of Star Demon were instantly hooked on how well Levander and Randy performed together. So hooked that they started to entertain the idea of them being in a group together once they passed their debut evaluations.

Soon, Levander and Randy start having lessons together. Randy’s overly hyped, Levander’s reluctantly optimistic. It’s an experience, either way.

Ultimately, though, Levander and Randy realize that they have a lot in common. And that they really, really like being each other’s friend. They click in ways that both remind Randy of Howard but also. Not. Levander is, essentially, both similar to and the exact opposite of Howard. Quiet, ambitious, snarkily deadpan, empathetic, compassionate, loyal. Being friends with him is like a breath of fresh air, or a warm blanket to Randy. Comforting and familiar.

Meanwhile, Levander realizes that, for all his stupidity and selfish moments, Randy is a good person who just wants to be accepted and seen as "cool" by his peers. He’s dedicated, and takes his training very seriously. He’s not afraid to help others, whether by teaching them a trick to help them memorize a choreo or telling them a cheesy joke to cheer them up. When it comes to music, Randy’s a natural. His singing and dancing just. Blows Levander away. But, he's always trying to hard to be like their seniors and puts on this act that he's a lot more confident/suave than he actually is. It frustrates Levander to no end, but he can't help but sympathize with the other boy.

And when Randy finds the courage to tell Levander about what happened between him and Howard? Levander loses all the resentment he once felt towards Randy and just. Feels bad for him. He understands what it’s like when someone you care about breaks your heart and makes you second-guess yourself at every possible moment. It doesn’t just hurt; it shatters you. And, with this newfound understanding of Randy, Levander forgives the other boy and really starts to bond with him.

I initially didn’t have any plans for romance in this AU (other than Howard’s unrequited crush on Randy), but then Levander’s addition happened and now I’m shipping him with Randy. Like, I'm 99.9% positive that they're gonna be the endgame couple for this AU.

Remember when I said Levander’s like a tsundere when he starts warming up to Randy? Yeah, well…he’s also a tsundere when it comes to his romantic feelings towards Randy. Because, honestly, going from strangers to kinda-sorta friends to acquaintances with rocky histories to kinda-sorta friends again is a battle in itself. But throw romantic feelings into the mix? Yeah, Levander is having a rough time.

Also doesn't help any that him realizing his crush on Randy throws him into a full-on crisis. With him being entirely devoted to his dreams and having been raised in an environment where the standards are painfully heteronormative, he never really thought about his sexuality till Randy starts making him feel things that aren't 100% platonic.

On the other hand, Randy’s realization of him being attracted to Levander is just pure panic. No angsting over sexuality b/c, ya know, he grew up with two moms in this AU for crying out loud. Also, I always pictured Randy's attitude towards his sexuality (I headcanon him as pan, btw) being the same as mine (I'm pan). Which is basically I always knew that I never really had any sort of strong preferences for the gender I'd be attracted to, but rather only cared about their personality and if I vibed with them. It's just that I never knew how to label it till I got older.

So, Randy's panic stems from worrying about if Levander swung that way, if he should just go for it and confess his feelings, if he'd be a good partner or not, and if things not working out will badly affect their friendship.

If I could describe RandyxLevander with a song, it’d be these two.

[ladyherenya]

This was more-books-than-sometimes month, because rather than take the time to write about the books I'd finished, I just read more books! Also, I read a lot over the Easter break, including some shorter books and a very binge-able series.

Also read: Two-Step and Someone Like Me by Stephanie Fournet, Hooked by Cathy Yardley, “Cloudy with a Chance of Dropbears” and “All the Different Shades of Blue” by W.R. Gingell, and “Home: Habitat, Range, Niche, Territory” by Martha Wells.

Reread: A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer.

Total: nineteen novels (including two audiobooks and one reread), one novella collection, two novellas, two novelettes and one short story.

Cover thoughts: Bellewether’s blue cover is (unsurprisingly) my favourite. I also really like The Ghosts of Sherwood. 

Still reading: A Portrait of Loyalty by Roseanna M. White and Playing Hearts by W.R. Gingell.

Next up: Torch by R.J. Anderson.

My full reviews are on Dreamwidth and LibraryThing.

*

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn (narrated by Saskia Maarleveld): Historical mystery about three young women who worked at Bletchley Park during WWII.

My favourite out of the books I’ve read so far this year. Most of the narrative is set during the war, but interspersed with sections set in 1947 -- when Beth, in a sanitarium after a breakdown, has sent her two estranged friends a coded message begging for help. I loved this, but at times found it stressful and heartbreaking! The writing is so lively and effective and emotional. 4½ ★

 *

Castle Charming by Tansy Raynor Roberts: Fairytale retellings, collection of novellas.

A very entertaining and a somewhat different take on fairytales, focusing on the reporters, Royal Hounds and royalty at Castle Charming. Some of the character dynamics felt similar to those in Roberts’ Unreal Alchemy although I didn’t feel quite as attached to these characters. I’ll read the sequel. 3 ★ 

*

Bellewether by Susanna Kearsley: Historical and contemporary fiction, set in Long Island during the so-called Seven Years War in 1759 and the present day.

Alternates between a curator overseeing turning a house in a museum and some of the house’s previous occupants, including a French-Canadian Lieutenant awaiting hostage exchange. Despite the various tensions the characters face, there’s something slow and ultimately gentle about this story. Which is lovely --  I enjoyed the picturesque sense of place and astute observations of people -- but it is less dramatic than I was expecting. 3½ ★

*

Happy Trail by Daisy Prescott: Contemporary romance, set on the Appalachian Trail.

A park ranger and a hiker shelter together during a storm. I was fascinated by the insight into hiking the Appalachian Trail and enjoyed some of the characters’ interactions, although I thought the way the romance unfolded was somewhat anticlimactic. Not always what I wanted, but I don't regret reading it.

*

Legacy by Stephanie Fournet: Contemporary enemies-to-roommates-to-lovers.

Wes offers to move in with his late-best friend’s girlfriend to help her out financially. This sort of hurt/comfort appeals to me. I liked how seriously this story takes Corinne’s messy, consuming grief. I don’t really want to spend any more time with the characters, but I was very invested in seeing them reach a better place in their lives.

Two-Step by Stephanie Fournet: Contemporary romance between an actress and a dance instructor. I enjoyed reading this. I particularly enjoyed how Beau helps Iris with her anxiety about dancing and with her controlling mother/manager. He’s very supportive and understanding! But I finished this with a niggling feeling of dissatisfaction -- Iris needed more opportunity to support Beau in turn.

Someone Like Me by Stephanie Fournet: Contemporary romance between a yoga instructor and her new neighbour, who has just got out of prison.

This one didn’t particularly appeal to me. Although interesting to see the experiences of someone recently released from prison, the romance developed too quickly.

(No, I didn’t read all three of these back-to-back!)

*

Hooked by Cathy Yardley: Contemporary fandom-y romance novella, set near Seattle. Takes place during Level Up and is about two of Tessa’s colleagues.

I enjoyed the characters' interactions and would have liked this more if it hadn't felt rushed. 

*

The Ghosts of Sherwood by Carrie Vaughn: Historical Robin Hood retelling, novella.

Exactly what I wanted! It alternates between Robin and Marian’s eldest daughter, Mary, and Marian herself. I liked seeing Robin and Marian as a long-married couple, who still love each other and still have disagreements. And the dynamic between their children gave me a zing of recognition, reminding me of my siblings. 3½ ★

*

The City Between by W.R. Gingell: Australian YA urban fantasy (murder) mysteries. Set in Hobart.

I ended up enjoying this series so much more than I’d expected to!

Between Jobs: After a neighbour is murdered, our seventeen-year-old orphaned narrator acquires some unexpected housemates -- two fae, one vampire. Once I got past the opening, with its tales of murder, the worldbuilding intrigued me. I still wasn’t sure what I thought about her housemates or the fact that they call her “Pet”, but was willing to reserve judgement until I’d read more. 3 ★

Between Shifts: About supermarket shifts and shapeshifters. Pet and JinYeong go undercover at the local grocery store. This is a reasonable murder mystery. I was initially disappointed with how something played out (but in retrospect can see how that was actually a positive development for Pet). It ended on a cliffhanger, so I was extra motivated to start the next book. 2½ ★

Between Floors: This is where the series took off, because things suddenly get personal! One of her fae housemates has been captured and the closest any of them get to finding Athelas is Pet contacting him in her dreams.This raises a lot of interesting questions, not just about Pet’s abilities, but about her relationship with her housemates. How much does she trust them and how much do they value Pet’s personhood? 3½ ★

Between Frames: Pet’s housemates are hired to investigate a series of fae deaths around Hobart, which involves scrutinising some baffling security footage.  Another solid murder mystery.  The final pages felt like one step forward, two steps back, but yet again, in retrospect, this was a positive development. I’m glad I could dive immediately into the next book. 3 ★

Between Homes: Pet has moved in with some friends. Hurray for Pet having friends! I think this was the point where I started to feel comfortable with Pet calling herself Pet -- when it's the name used by people she likes and trusts and who don’t view her as a pet at all. 3½ ★

“Cloudy with a Chance of Dropbears” (novelette): An awesome title and an entertaining opportunity to see Pet from someone else’s perspective -- moreover, someone who doesn’t know her or what she’s capable of. 3 ★

Between Walls: Pet’s friend Morgana is worried about an online friends and asks Pet and co to investigate his disappearance. Along the way, they discover that there are human groups who actually know a lot about Behindkind. I am also becoming increasingly entertained by the Korean vampire. 3 ★

“All the Different Shades of Blue” (novelette): A great cover and it explains who that guy at the cafe is, but otherwise didn’t really do anything Cloudy with a Chance of Dropbears hadn’t already done -- ie., show us Pet from someone else’s perspective. Most of the time, I have enjoyed this series all the more for binging it, but I suspect this particular story would have worked better if I had read it after a period of absence. 2½ ★

Between Cases:  My favourite of these have been the ones where things get personal, and this involves a lot of revelations about who Pet is -- from a fae perspective -- and why her parents were murdered. I enjoyed this one a lot. 3½ ★

*

The Duke of Olympia Meets His Match by Juliana Gray: Historical espionage romance novella, set in 1893 onboard an ocean liner travelling to England. Apparently not the Duke’s first appearance in Gray’s fiction.

I liked the idea here much better than the execution. I liked Penelope, a fifty-year-old widow dependent upon her position as a governess, and I enjoyed her interactions with the older Duke of Olympia. But parts of the spy plot were rushed or confusing, and the resolution was almost-but-not-entirely satisfying. 2½ ★

*

A Vow So Bold and Deadly by Brigid Kemmerer: Fantasy. Follows on from the fairytale-retelling A Curse So Dark and Lonely and its sequel, A Heart So Fierce and Broken.

If this is meant as a conclusion to a trilogy, then the ending was a bit too anticlimactic, with a few too many loose ends, to be really satisfying. But I reached the end feeling positive about the story, because I really enjoyed the characters’ interactions. All of the protagonists have to deal with conflict in relationships. I loved the times when they each navigate these conflicts by acting fairly and communicating honestly, when doing so is often difficult and complicated. That’s realistic and satisfying. 3½ ★

*

“Home: Habitat, Range, Niche, Territory” by Martha Wells:  Science-fiction short story. Part of The Murderbot Diaries series, set after Exit Strategy.

Very, very short but I really liked seeing things from Dr Ayda Mensah’s (third person) perspective. 3½ ★

*

Emily of Deep Valley by Maud Hart Lovelace: Historical coming-of-age fiction, set in Minnesota in 1912-3.

I am very glad to finally have read this! It’s delightful, a fascinating insight into community life in a Minnesotan town, and it effectively captures the emotional experience of navigating a period of transition. After high school, Emily’s friends  leave for college, but Emily has to find her own path to purposefully fill her time, build connections and further her education. 4 ★

*

On Wings of Devotion by Roseanna M. White (narrated by Susan Lyons): Romantic historical mystery, set in London during 1918. Christian fiction. Features characters from The Number of Love.

Arabelle Denler is a nurse working in a London hospital; Phillip Camden is an airman now working for British Intelligence. I enjoyed their interactions, especially once they start to get to know each other. I didn’t like the antagonist’s contribution to this narrative -- between the dangers of wartime and the protagonists’ respective issues, there’s enough tension without her. But what I enjoyed about this story outweighed what I didn’t. 3½ ★

*

Our Darkest Night by Jennifer Robson: Historical fiction set during the Nazi occupation of Italy in WWII.

Nina, a young Jewish woman from Venice, goes into hiding by pretending she’s married to Nico, a Catholic farmer. Robson’s strength lies in pairing details of daily life with likeable characters, realistic dialogue and a sweet romance. I read this quickly and eagerly. But if the characters had been more nuanced, more complex, or if their emotions had been conveyed more vividly, I likely would have found reading this a more emotional experience. 3½ ★

[gillysims]

The Patisserie CAS Legacy Final Celebration!

I had a ton of fun playing this CAS legacy through all 10 generations! In celebration of finally reaching the end and sending it off with a bang, I thought it would be fun to have one final poll... but this time, you’re voting for your favorite heir, spouse, and spare from the legacy! The winners will get an extra lil photoshoot!

In addition, I’ve left a little box for you to comment your ideas for legacy challenges I could take on next! I love doing CAS legacies, and I’m interested in maybe doing another one (after a bit of a break). If you have a legacy challenge in mind, there’s a space for you to suggest it!

All that said, here are your options for favorite spouse again, just to jog your memory:

Gen 1 - Pixie Puff | Gen 2 - Sesame Oil Gen 3 - Palladium | Gen 4 - Curio Chambray Gen 5 - India Ink Starling | Gen 6 - Crinoline Gen 7 - Velvet Regal | Gen 8 - Cheshire Hart Gen 9 - Blue Note Solo and Whirlwind Ritz 

Take the poll here!

[excellentexecution]

@deadman-inc-bikeshop​ asked: Write about Elise's first match! What's Papa Bret feeling? What are his thoughts? Gimme the juicy daddy Bret feels bby

Bret knew that the day would’ve come sooner or later. Elise had asked for years to learn. What the difference was between a wristlock and a chop block - those christened with the last name of Hart had professional wrestling within their blood. Always did and would forever because of the efforts from their patriarch, his father had created a legacy that went well beyond himself. A dynasty that would outlive everything that the family founded and more, layered questions were asked from her whenever the Hitman was around to answer them. Elise was too curious for her own good. Sweet pleading and the obvious love of his life, any squared circle would be an unvisited friend to the beloved child who dared to be eager. Who just wanted to master the tricks of the famous Sharpshooter and Heart Attack. Her age too young yet a promise still made - Bret vowed to teach Elise when the time was right. Once either was set, when the parent could bare to release his darling daughter into that world by herself. Bret wasn’t ready so soon then. 

Said and kept like every other commitment he honored before, down into their basement did they both go when Elise welcomed adolescence. Straight into the fundamentals and the technical aspects of the sport - gentle hands and delicate critiques were teachers that Bret hadn’t met himself. Decades prior and when training with Stu proved to be the toughest battle of them all. When blackened eyes and battered hearts were the only outcomes that meant any good, pinned firmly to those mats was a father who was overcome with pride. Elise could untangle herself from any hold. Swiftly knock out a leg faster than a breath could be taken in, dumbbells that were littered around the room were picked up and put away with understanding gazes thereafter. Sweat padded free from her skin with a loose towel and his fingertips tracing patterns over her face, the lines and smiles that resembled himself were no longer held by Bret’s little girl. All around was she a woman. Wiser and more aware of what the business would call for, the clock was ticking for her arrival within the ropes. Never to be parted without a display of some sort, eighteen or not didn’t matter, Bret peppered Elise in kisses. On the top of her nose and right below her chin, against the temple and her forehead for extra luck. Devotion to the hours and years had paid off. Elise Hart was ready. 

Instinct would have caused for worse to happen had Bret acted on them. A thrust into the turnbuckle that was rough and ruthless, Calgary provided both the best and cruelest when it came to just starting out. A venue that was polished and precise - the walls were white and the floor marbled, a small school that booked better when the draw was near. Third generation stars weren’t guarantees that could’ve been passed by. Rare and priceless as far as the promoter was concerned, when Elise walked through the doors with the Hitman at her side, a leather jacket with pink print on her shoulders, natural talent improved what great chance was already there. She was a knockout and presence to behold. Confident and reliable in her work as so none would get hurt, signed on the line was she for another shot later that night. A grand show that would feature the best there was. An audience who would appreciate the entertainment - assured on the handshake of a moral agreement, Elise would be of most importance, not dear old dad. Maybe a special guest, if he would’ve been so kind, maybe something more afterword for the loyal fanbase around. Maybe a common figure and coach for students - as he watched Elise take her first turnbuckle hit later that evening, Bret could only remain perched on his seat from the crowd. 

If Instinct was released than all would’ve been over. Blonde hair and enhanced assets were rowdy like some of the craziest from the industry. Nails across the spine - Elise’s opponent for the match had gone about destroying whatever she could get a bite out of. Left ears and exposed flesh, hair pulled and knotted to the point of being almost yanked out completely. Swallowed hard were the worries that Bret kept beneath the surface. Cheers were loud - come on, baby girl - and the voice was broken. Butterflies not rested in the stomach but instead fluttering about just the same too, taunts toward himself were greeted with only a passion that someone from his family was regarded for. Unrelenting and bruised like the purple nearest her cheek, Elise was as fervent as the word went. An utter lunatic who had just enough of whatever game was being played that show. Unable to stop despite the begging and whimpers from her foe, chimes of the bell had signaled her first win and the excitement from more than solely a fixated audience. 

Raced for the back as soon as the claps and bodies allowed, Bret rushed to find his little bundle who wasn’t so small anymore. Scooped her up and hugged her tightly - he did so without so much as the second to pause the arms already looped around her waist. Tears not yet fallen from his eyes but ever there as he looked her way, victory was recorded in Elise’s name and everyone who worked the local promotion would recognize the fact. Would have to even if they didn’t care. Would be made to because he wouldn’t let that moment slip through their fingers, black ink onto the pages would mark the return of the Harts. Not the same face that was remembered but so similar, the newest and most exceptional member who would outdo everything that those before accomplished. Best there ever would be: Bret didn’t need to be Elise’s father to know just how hard she worked. Could comfortably be one of the random bodies who admired her, rather, there was such joy to be found in his role as her papa. 

Tanned fingers twirled through brown tresses, whispered were the praises repeated often but the sentiments no less true: he was so proud of her. 

[tazzflasharts]

The man i strive to be: by caduceus monkey.

The man i strive to be is strong wiled loving and reliable. Trusted by my experience and principles. A understanding man that ppl look up to. Even some day be a guru that this world has ever seen.

All the wealth i gain would go to worthy cause's like feeding the homeless. And establishing shelters. And found a nation wide homeless rehabilitation program with all the resources in 1 place.

I want to be that loving man with my sweet country bumpkin at my side and 4 kids. A happy family out doing good for the community and loveing on every 1 we come across.

I thrive to be the man that learned everything there is to know about love so i can fallow my life mission to show the world how to love again.

My Legacy in my hart isn't property or cars or things. My legacy isn't my bike collection or teck collection. Its people.

Thats right my legacy is in the harts of the lives i chang. The harts i touched. Its in the humanities i spread with out a 2nd thought.

I have no choice its the life im compelled to live. I take only what i need to get by and spread the extra wealth that comes my way to help those less fortunate then me.

I go through life like a bum so i have extract to help when its needed. I wake up and put my best foot forward every day for everyone but neglecting myself. Holding myself back. For ppl that dont get it.

I am love. The caduceus monkey. The monkey of love humanity and healing i am the messager of peace and i ancer to 1 ane and he dont live on this planet

[fromtheringapron]

WWE WrestleMania XXVI

Date: March 28, 2010.

Location: University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. 

Attendance: 72,219.

Commentary: Michael Cole, Jerry Lawler, and Matt Striker. 

Results:

1. WWE Unified Tag Team Championship Match: ShoMiz (The Miz and Big Show) (champions) defeated R-Truth and John Morrison 

2. Triple Threat Match: Randy Orton defeated Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr. 

3. Money in the Bank Ladder Match: Jack Swagger defeated Christian, Drew McIntyre, Dolph Ziggler, Evan Bourne, Kofi Kingston, Kane, Montel Vontavious Porter, Matt Hardy, and Shelton Benjamin. 

4. Triple H defeated Sheamus. 

5. Rey Mysterio defeated CM Punk (with Serena and Luke Gallows).

6. No Holds Barred Lumberjack Match: Bret Hart defeated Vince McMahon. Bruce Hart was the special guest referee.

7. WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match: Chris Jericho (champion) defeated Edge. 

8. Layla, Alicia Fox, Maryse, Michelle McCool, and Vickie Guerrero defeated Kelly Kelly, Beth Phoenix, Mickie James, Gail Kim, and Eve Torres. 

9. WWE Championship Match: John Cena defeated Batista (champion) to win the title. 

10. No Disqualification Career vs. Streak Match: The Undertaker defeated Shawn Michaels. Per stipulation, Michaels retired.

My Review

WreslteMania XXVI is a difficult show to sum up. It’s a pretty good WrestleMania, but also one that happens to be all over the place in tone and focus. Perhaps its reflective of how indeterminate the future of the WWE felt at the start of the 2010s. The roster was such a mishmash of eras that you’d be forgiven of not having a clue where the hell the company was going. John Cena, Batista, and Randy Orton were at the top of the card after their rise to superstardom in the 2000s, but the spotlight was still shared guys who rose to stardom in the ‘90s like Triple H and The Undertaker. Then there was a new generation of talent—The Miz, Sheamus, Drew McIntyre, etc. — bubbling in the undercard who seemed poised to rocket into the top at any moment. But wait! Time was also given to  . . . the 13-year-old feud between Bret Hart and Vince McMahon?!? Suffice to say, with the show splintering off in so many different directions, it’s not surprising it has some misfires.

Let’s start with the good stuff, though. The main event between Undertaker and Shawn Michaels is fantastic and I’m gonna throw it out there that I like it more than their match from the previous year. The stakes feel higher, the suspense level feels higher, and there’s more of a story here than just Shawn needing to beat Taker. He puts his entire career is on the line here, for heaven’s sake! And speaking of his career, like many at the time, I didn’t have a clue this would be Shawn’s last match. Most on-screen wrestling retirements are never legit, so there was plenty of basis to believe this one would be no different. But alas, this one was different, and we get about as good a sendoff as we could’ve gotten for someone who’s been dubbed Mr. WrestleMania.

On another show, the WWE title match between John Cena and Batista would’ve been the main event. Their match here is great fun. It’s actually an end of an era for the two men who were crowned as the leaders of the next generation at WrestleMania five years earlier. Batista would move on to Hollywood shortly after this and, while certainly not his last WWE run, it would mark the end of his career as a full-timer. Interestingly enough, Batista was really coming into his own as a heel at the time of his departure, even winning over fans who previously couldn’t stand him. He would resurrect his heel run in 2014 and 2019, again only for a short spell. A shame we haven’t been able to spend much time with arrogant heel ‘Tista and his impeccable designer fashion, but then I guess that’s what makes it so special.

As for what doesn’t work, I probably don’t need to go into much detail about the Bret/McMahon clash. The basics of the story are solid — Bret gets his long-awaited revenge on McMahon, with his family right by his side. It’s just not super fun to watch in execution, however well-meaning it may be. They match is dragged out much longer than it should and it takes the crowd completely out of it. Another misfire is the Money in the Bank match. This would be the final iteration of the match at WrestleMania before it becomes its own pay-per-view. It’s clear the concept needs some rejuvenation by this point as it’s now a lazy, bloated affair where everyone gets in their allotted number of spots and there are way too many participants. To cap it all off, the ill-advised decision is made to push Jack Swagger into the main event scene, an idea which would run out of gas in a matter of months.

The show seems to have some weird pacing issues as well. In the era of the Network, I’ve grown so accustom to Manias being stretched to the point of exhaustion, so it’s always little odd to go back and watch one that feels like it doesn’t have enough time. It’s almost like it’s struggling to figure out how spread out time across a card so stacked. The tag opener and Rey Mysterio vs. CM Punk feel like abridged versions of the matches we would’ve otherwise gotten, while Bret vs. McMahon gets more time than either combined. Even Money in the Bank feels somewhat rushed. I’m definitely not a huge fan of WrestleMania becoming a seven-hour event, and WWE has proven they struggle with time management on longer Manias, but this is one show where it seems an extra hour absolutely would’ve been to its benefit.

At its best, WrestleMania XXVI is a nice sampler plate of eras, even if struggles to give you equal portions for all of them. The multi-generational makeup of the card ensures there’s a little something for everyone and even closes the books on a couple of legendary careers. You’re bound to dislike some it but for better or worse, and this is a cheeseball thing to say, it definitely puts the “showcase” in the Showcase of the Immortals.

My Random Notes

No joke, I really did not think this would be it for HBK and even seriously thought Taker’s streak was in jeopardy. Am I a fool for thinking that? Maybe, but I like that wrestling conned into believing it in a way it hardly ever does anymore.

I feel like the temple entrance set is something that should’ve been more impressive than it is in actuality. They just stacked LED screens on top of each other and just rolled with it. It looks like something from Minecraft.

Ah, this show reinvigorates my fond feelings for Matt Striker. Such a handsome chap! Not surprising at all he would appear on a Bachelor ripoff a whole decade later.

I chuckled at Bruce Hart being the special guest referee for Bret vs. McMahon. You just know he huffed and puffed his way into that one, much to Bret’s annoyance.

I also chuckled at Diana Hart-Smith walking down to the ring with her best “evil, vindictive femme fatale on the cover of a pulp novel” look. God bless her. She needs to write another book.

I know Rey singing Happy Birthday to his daughter is meant to be a heart-warming thing but if I were a kid in the same situation, I would be traumatized. Just think of how uncomfortable it is when a room full of people is signing at you and then think of enduring that in an arena filled with thousands of people. CM Punk did her a huge favor by crashing the moment, as far as I’m concerned.

Not saying anything new here, but the whole Spear thing with Edge is cringe as hell and it’s for the best that it’s been forgotten in the annals of his career.

I know some people like to mock Vickie Guerrero doing Eddie’s frog splash, but I personally thought it was a sweet moment while staying true to comedically heel Vickie.

The official theme song to this Mania is “I Made It” by Kevin Rudolf. A time-period appropriate choice, I must say. I feel like the dawn of the 2010s is the only time a Kevin Rudolf could be a success.

I identify myself as someone who will always be more embarrassed by John Cena haters than Cena himself and I gotta say him posing next to the guys in the front row hating his guts is fucking hilarious. Cena is funny sometimes when he just straight-up trolls.

On the Legacy fallout: The storytelling for this was weird as hell. Am I the only who remembers that one time on Raw where they teased Ted turning face and the crowd was actually kinda into it? Then they completely abandoned it for whatever reason and just had Randy be the breakout face (as if he needed it) and dunk on both Cody and Ted at WrestleMania. I feel like Cody’s AEW origin story more or less began here.

Awwwwe, this show has little baby Drew McIntyre. It’s so interesting watching this with the benefit of hindsight. I remember a lot of people Not Feeling It when he was anointed as the Chose One, and truthfully I wasn’t feeling it at the time either, but watching it back really makes you appreciate how much hard work he put in to get to where he’d be a decade later. A lot of folks were dreading the inevitable Drew world title run in 2010. The title run did happen, but it was much later and much more welcome than anyone back than anyone could’ve imagined.

[vormirjumper]

Avengers Endgame Press Interviews Compilation

Last updated: 01/05/19

The Stars of Avengers: Endgame to launch Avengers Universe Unites 

Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame- Full Press Conference  

Good Morning America 

‘Avengers: Endgame’ cast talks about the film’s highly-anticipated debut | GMA 

‘Avengers: Endgame’ cast ‘certain’ movie will live up to the record-breaking hype | GMA

Jimmy Kimmel 

Avengers Cast on Premiere , Favourite Lines , Matching Tattoos & Birthday Gifts 

Avengers Cast Reads New Thanos Children’s Book 

Danai Gurira on Avengers & Walking Dead Spoilers 

Jeremy Renner on Hawkeye & Ronin in Avengers: Endgame 

Don Cheadle on War Machine & Avengers: Endgame

Entertainment Weekly 

‘Avengers: Endgame’ Cast Full Roundtable Interview on Stan Lee & More 

ET Canada

‘Avengers: Endgame’  UK Premiere With Paul Rudd , Chris Hemsworth , Scarlett Johansson

Chris Hemsworth , Scarlett Johansson Step Out For ‘Avengers: Endgame’ London Premiere 

Paul Rudd , Jeremy Renner Received Cold Welcome On Set of ‘Endgame’ | EXTENDED

‘Avengers’ Cast Talk Emotions On Set Of ‘Endgame’

Chris Hemsworth , Robert Downey Jr & More ‘Avengers’ Give Back!

Hemsworth , Larson , Cheadle React to ‘Captain Marvel’ Passing A Billion At Box Office

Ellen 

Chris Hemsworth Has No Idea What Happens in ‘Avengers Endgame’ 

Scarlett Johansson, Brie Larson & Hannah Hart Walk Onto a Stage

Brie Larson & Scarlett Johansson on First Kisses, Fan Tattoos, and ‘Avengers: Endgame’

Brie Larson & Scarlett Johansson Cheer on an 'Avengers’ Fan During 'Hot Hands’

Scarlett Johansson & Brie Larson Play ‘Who Saves the World? Girls!’

First We Feast 

Scarlett Johansson Tries to Not Spoil Avengers While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

Extratv

‘Avengers: Endgame’ Cast Sounds-Off: Who Negotiated for More Hair , Who is the Shortest , and More!

‘Avengers: Endgame’ : Scarlett Johansson Reveals Her’ 3 Weeks from Catsuit’ Rule for Staying in Shape

‘Avengers: Endgame’: Paul Rudd Reacts to That Ant-Man & Thanos Fan Theory 

Entertainment Tonight

Avengers: Endgame: Chris Evans Wants To Keep THIS Captain America Suit (Exclusive) 

Avengers: Endgame Cast Can’t Stop Swearing While Reading Kid-Friendly Infinity War Story 

Watch Avengers: Endgame Stars Surprise Kids at Disney Theme Park 

Brie Larson Teases That She Paid $25 for ‘Avengers’ Initiation Fee (exclusive)

Avengers: Endgame : Chris Hemsworth , Brie Larson and Don Cheadle (FULL INTERVIEW)

Fandango All Access

The Cast of ‘Avengers: Endgame’ React to Hawkeye’s New Mohawk | Exclusive Interview | Fandango

Paul Rudd & Jeremy Renner Consider Swapping Superhero Roles | Avengers: Endgame Cast Interview 

JOE.ie

Chris Hemsworth talks about the big changes for Thor in Avengers: Endgame 

Scarlett Johansson and Paul Rudd Discuss the crazies Avengers: Endgame Theories 

Digital Spy

Scarlett Johansson and Paul Rudd Avengers Endgame interview 

Anthony and Joe Russo Avengers Endgame interview 

Kinowetter 

Interview Chris Hemsworth , Scarlett Johansson & Paul Rudd AVENGERS ENDGAME Marvel 

Interview Anthony Russo & Joe Russo AVENGERS: ENDGAME Marvel

The Graham Norton Show

Paul Rudd Comments On Ant-Man vs Thanos Fan Theory In New Avengers Film | The Graham Norton Show 

Paul Rudd Jumped Out Of A Moving Car To Impress His Date?! | The Graham Norton Show

BBC America 

Paul Rudd’s Absolutely Awful Double Date | The Graham Norton Show | BBC America 

Chris Hemsworth Swaps Spoilers with Kit Harrington | The Graham Norton Show | BBC America 

MTV News 

Russo Brother on ‘Avengers: Endgame’ & Wrapping Things Up in the MCU | MTV News 

Avengers: Endgame’ Cast Play Most Likely To | MTV News

‘Avengers: Endgame’ Cast Play Name That Avenger | MTV News

Good Morning Britain

The Avengers: Endgame Stars Share the Naughtiest Thing They’ve Ever Done | Good Morning Britain

Daily Mail 

Avengers cast talk the difficulty of keeping secrets at a fan event 

Avengers: Chris Hemsworth looks back at his time playing Thor

Scarlett Johansson reveals Avengers have a ‘disgusting’ text group 

Avengers Endgame cast talk about the franchise one last time 

HeyUGuys

Marvel Producer Trinh Tran - Avengers: Endgame UK Fan Screening Interview 

Avengers: Endgame Interview Writer/Director Joe Russo and Ava Russo

Chris Hemsworth (Thor) - Avengers: Endgame UK Fan Screening Interview 

Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) - Avengers: Endgame UK Fan Screening Interview 

Avengers: Endgame Fan Screening Interviews- Chris Hemsworth , Paul Rudd , Scarlett Johansson 

The Upcoming 

Anthony and Joe Russo on Avengers: Endgame: “It’s the conclusion of the grandest movie experiment”

Scarlett Johansson and Danai Gurira on Avengers: Endgame - interview 

Chris Evans , Karen Gillan and Mark Ruffalo on Avengers: Endgame - interview

Paul Rudd (Ant-Man) and Jeremy Renner (hawkeye) on Avengers: Endgame - interview

Brie Larson , Chris Hemsworth and Don Cheadle on Avengers: Endgame - interview

Joe & Ava Russo Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: “We make these movies for fans”

Trinh Tran Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: “For MCU fans, this is the movie to catch”

Anthony & Joe Russo Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: An epic final chapter, cast didn’t see it 

Chris Hemsworth Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: “It’s a special thing to be part of”

Paul Rudd Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: We’re like the Beatles & the best fans are the kids 

Scarlett Johansson Avengers: Endgame fan event interview: “My character’s journey echoes my own”

Avengers: Endgame fan event UK arrivals & photocall : Paul Rudd , Scarlett Johansson , Chris Hemsworth 

Marvellous TV

Avengers Endgame Chris Evans, Karen Gillan & Mark Ruffalo

Avengers Endgame w/ Brie Larson , Chris Hemsworth & Don Cheadle 

Avengers Endgame Danai Gurira & Scarlett Johansson

Avengers Endgame with Jeremy Renner & Paul Rudd

Chris Hemsworth at the Avengers: Endgame UK premiere 

Avengers: Endgame UK premiere with Paul RUDD Ant-Man

Scarlett Johansson “Natasha Romanoff: Black Widow”

Avengers Endgame UK Fan event Uk Premiere 

Social News XYZ

Avengers: Endgame EPK Cast & Crew Soundbites || #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Seoul Fan Event B-Roll & Soundbites || #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Jeremy Renner & Paul Rudd Generic Interview || #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Joe Russo & Anthony Russo Generic Interview | #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Danai Gurira & Scarlett Johansson Generic Interview || #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Chris Evans , Karen Gillan and Mark Ruffalo Generic Interview || #SocialNews.XYZ

Avengers: Endgame Brie Larson , Chris Hemsworth , and Don Cheadle Generic Interview || #SocialNews.XYZ

Rotten Tomatoes 

Oral History of Avengers: Endgame & Infinity War with the Russo Brothers | Rotten Tomatoes 

Collider Quick 

Avengers: Endgame Deleted Scenes : 5 Minutes May Be on the Blu-Ray

Avengers Endgame Ending : Russo Brothers on Crafting Finale 

Russo Brothers Interview Avengers Endgame 

ExtraButter 

Russo Brothers talk last minute edits | Avengers: Endgame Interview | Extra Butter

Cosmopolitan UK

Scarlett Johansson & Paul Rudd on weird Avengers: Endgame fan questions & the secret to Paul’s youth

heatworld

Chris Hemsworth gets emotional about Avengers: Endgame and says Thor changed his life 

Geek Culture 

Avengers: Endgame Korea | Interview with Jeremy Renner , Brie Larson and the Russo Brothers

Avengers: Endgame Fan Event in South Korea | Stars’ Reaction to Fan Videos 

Yahoo Entertainment 

Avengers: Endgame’ cast talks about surviving the Snapture

NOTHING BETTER TO YOUTUBE

AVENGERS: ENDGAME INTERVIEWS | Spoilers Without Context & Remembering Stan Lee

Avengers: Endgame | Scarlett Johansson Pranked Me On Black Widow Movie

Avengers: Endgame Interview : Russo Brothers | Dust Explanation

Avengers: Endgame Cast Recite Lil Nas X’s Old Town Road 

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert 

Just One Question: ‘Avengers: Endgame’ Edition 

Lorraine 

Scarlett Johansson Is Glad the AVENGERS IS NOT A ‘Testosterone Festival” Anymore | Lorraine 

The Cutaway 

Chris Hemsworth Lobbied to keep Avengers: Endgame’s Thor in the spirit of Ragnarok

Avengers: Endgame’s Russo Brothers: Thanos isn’t right, and ‘Thanus’ is hilarious by the way 

NCTV뉴스컬처

어벤져스: 엔드게임(Avengers:Endgame) Asia Press Conference Full Ver.

ODE

Avengers Endgame: Chris Hemsworth hints Thor and Thanos will team up to become ‘Thor-nos’

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME- Mark Ruffalo , Kren Gillan and Chris Evans Interview

Stars of Avengers: Endgame take on Brexit 

Avengers Endgame: Paul Rudd feels like he showed up late to the party

Avengers Endgame: Chris Hemsworth worried he would be recast as Thor!

Avengers Endgame : Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) reveals the Avengers have ‘gross’ text group!

Flickering Myth 

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME - Anthony and Joe Russo Interview 

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME - Paul Rudd and Jeremy Renner Interview 

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME - Scarlett Johansson and Danai Gurira Interview 

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME - Don Cheadle , Brie Larson and Chris Hemsworth Interview 

Marvel’s AVENGERS: ENDGAME - Mark Ruffalo , Karen Gillan and Chris Evans Interview 

Capital FM

Paul Rudd Explains The Ant-Man-Thanos Butt Meme To Scarlett Johansson | FULL INTERVIEW

Variety 

Avengers Cast Plays ‘How Well Do You Know Your Co-Stars?’

Anthony Russo & Joe Russo On Bringing 'Avengers: Endgame’s Epic Conclusion

Don Cheadle On Stan Lee’s Diverse Legacy

Karen Gillan Says Nebula’s Costume Feels Claustrophobic

Paul Rudd Talks Ant-Man/ThanosTheory

Jeremy Renner Explains Why Hawkeye Wasn’t In 'Avengers: Infinity War’

Chris Hemsworth Talks Hanging Up Thor’s Hammer - Avengers Endgame

Brie Larson On 'Captain Marvel’ Success & Female Empowerment

Scarlett Johansson on 'Avengers: Endgame,’ Black Widow’s Next Move and the 2020 Election

Avengers: Endgame’ World Premiere in Hollywood - Variety on the Carpet

Avengers: Endgame Cast Gets Hands and Feet Cemented at Chinese Theatre in Hollywood

WIRED

Avengers: Endgame Cast Answer 50 of the Most Googled Marvel Questions | WIRED

Anthony Mackie Answers the Web’s Most Searched Questions | WIRED

Vanity Fair 

“Avengers: Endgame” Cast Answers Fan Questions (Paul Rudd, Don Cheadle, & Karen Gillan)

“Avengers: Endgame” Cast Answers Fan Questions (Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy Renner, & Danai Gurira)

BBC Radio 1

“I got real tingles!” Avengers: Endgame’s Chris Hemsworth on Thor’s greatest moments.

Chris Hemsworth and Scarlett Johansson Insult Each Other | CONTAINS STRONG LANGUAGE!

“Rudder!” Scarlett Johansson reacts to Paul Rudd and Jeremy Renner’s Avengers: Endgame Bromance.

“You can trust us!” Avengers: Endgame’s Russo Brothers on Korg, “Thanus” and dusting Spider-Man.

POPSUGAR

The Avengers: Endgame Cast Try to Chronologically Order All 22 Marvel Movies

LuissandovalTV

AVENGERS ENDGAME - SCARLETT JOHANSON AND CHRIS HEMSWORTH INTERVIEW

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Just One Question: ‘Avengers: Endgame’ Edition

PopBuzz

Chris Hemsworth Tries To Name Every Marvel Film In 1 Minute | Avengers: Endgame | PopBuzz Meets

Today 

Jeremy Renner: ‘Avengers: Endgame’ Cast ‘Just As Surprised’ As Fans With Ending | Sunday TODAY

BuzzFeed Celeb 

Chris Evans and Mark Ruffalo Try To Survive Thanos’ Snap

The Cast Of “Avengers: Endgame” Tries To Survive Thanos’s Snap

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon 

Thank You Notes: Joe Biden, Avengers: Endgame Poster

Paul Rudd and Jimmy on the Making of Their “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” Remake

Paul Rudd Fainted in a Hong Kong Bathroom and Woke Up in an Odd Position

Jimmy Fallon and Paul Rudd Recreate “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” Music Video

Brie Larson Filmed Avengers: Endgame Without Knowing She Was Captain Marvel

Avengers: Endgame Cast Sings “We Didn’t Start the Fire”

The Late Late Show with James Corden

Paul Rudd & James Corden’s Wildly Inappropriate Kids Duo

[daleisgreat]

WrestleMania 35

As of this writing, WrestleMania 36 is set to air in two days, and due to the fallout from the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, will be airing taped from an empty arena a couple weeks prior, and over two nights. I have been advocating for two night ‘Manias since the WWE Network era of PPVs have caused WrestleManias having bloated cards and lasting nearly SEVEN hours when factoring in the pre-show matches. Since it is WrestleMania week, I am here to continue my annual tradition of watching the previous year’s installment on BluRay and break it all down here. I broke up watching the nine-ish hours of BluRay content over a few days, which lead for a more non-overkill experience, and I ended up enjoying the overall show exponentially more this way as you will soon read on. Now even though the BluRay has around nine hours of content on the disc, the cumulative total of content the BluRay unlocked for me was about 12 hours by including a digital copy of not only the PPV, but also a digital only copy of the Hall of Fame ceremony that preceded WrestleMania a couple days prior. For the second straight WrestleMania BluRay, the Hall of Fame is not included on the disc, and is instead replaced with the following night’s RAW in its entirety, which here is just over two hours when taking out all the ad breaks.

The Hall of Fame ceremony this year saw Jerry Lawler replaced as the host with Corey Graves & Renee Young, complete with grimace-caliber jokes of the stereotypical award show variety. The 2019 ceremony also saw a different setup with a ring in the center of the arena where all the speeches were delivered, and while it provided a nice visual, it also made it easier for an overzealous fan to run in and attack cancer and stroke survivor, Bret Hart during his speech. I recall getting the faintest look at the guy before cameras cut away and at first thinking because of the goofy hair that it was Enzo again up to shenanigans a few months after dancing in the front rows of the crowd at Survivor Series, but was then further perplexed to find out minutes later that Enzo and Cass did a worked shoot run-in at the G1 Supercard concurrently taking place. It turned out it was a fan with mental health issues, and obviously WWE cut out the run-in on the final Hall of Fame video cut, and the only thing apparent of something happening is that after a cut to the crowd, Bret Hart’s hair is suddenly tangled up. If you have not witnessed that brazen fan run-in, click or press here for fan-phone footage of proceeding to get pounced by countless wrestlers almost instantly. Bizarre fan attack aside, it was a much brisker ceremony (only three and a half hours!) thanks in part to no Hillbilly Jim speech this year (which was deservingly poked at this year), and a couple inductees not having inductions either, and the ones that did must have had strict time limits because I do not recall an inductor going longer than five minutes. Honkey Tonk Man set the stage with the fun-gimmick from the Rock ‘n Wrestling years, with a groovy entrance and exit, complete by singing his song on the way out and doing a noticeably better performance than Double J the year prior. Torrie Wilson’s speech felt more of a Ted Talk, but still heartwarming and inspirational and I will give her all the benefit of the doubt considering her father and former on-screen talent and Dawn Marie love interest, Al Wilson passed away two days prior. Also pleasant was seeing Stacy Kiebler break her 13-year WWE absence by inducting her.

The legacy class of 2019 had another ten inductees with brief 20-30 second video pieces on each. Most of them are more classic pre-cable TV era wrestlers, but some are more recently noteworthy and remembered like SD Jones, Bruiser Brody and Luna Vachon and in my opinion more deserving of traditional inductions. I hope if WWE keeps this up they will at least have a family member do a separate video induction and include it on their website for a more proper way to remember these legacy stars. The Hart Foundation was the next inductee, with Natalya accepting for her father, The Anvil. Bret and Naddie gave the successful Rock ‘n Wrestling era tag team a fitting induction, filled with classic stories from their days in one of the most successful periods of tag teams in WWE history. Brutus Beefcake gave a surprisingly good speech for his induction, as did the Hulkster for inducting him as he laid out how he broke Brutus into the business. Kind of surprising it happened considering the recent disparaging comments between the two with Brutus’s tell-all biography from a couple years earlier, but maybe it ‘was all a work brother!’ Props to Brutus for giving the Doctors who saved him from his terrible parasailing accident their kudos, and for calling out Shawn Michaels for still owing him for his barbershop window! The Warrior Award went to Sue Ajtheson, a backstage WWE official who is largely responsible for their Make-a-Wish efforts. Dana Warrior and John Cena gave heartfelt, genuine inductions for her, and Sue was a gem enlightening us about her philanthropic accomplishments.

Harlem Heat got inducted next, and after Booker T gave his brother Stevie Ray an outstanding tribute, it was then time for Stevie Ray sharing several stories of the trials of Harlem Heat breaking in before they finally found success in WCW. D-Generation X headlined the Hall of Fame, and as expected it was lengthy with X-Pac, Road Dogg, Billy Gunn, Shawn Michaels and Triple H all giving speeches. They unleashed some vintage DX humor to start off with. Other highlights include giving Chyna her proper acknowledgement, Billy Gunn getting razzed for being with the new competition in AEW, X-Pac getting super jittery in his sea of notes and all of them busting out Super Soakers and dousing their colleagues in the crowd, especially Baron Corbin. Now onto the 16 match WrestleMania 35 card (guys….I am sorry, thank you so much for sticking with me!). If you have yet to watch WrestleMania 35 then before reading this recap, I recommend breaking it up into a two part watch, and give this strong recommendation of preferred matches for each night to make for a better experience that I guarantee you will not struggle to stay awake through: WrestleMania 35 – Day 1 Watch Order: Tony Nese vs Buddy Murphy, WrestleMania Women’s Battle Royal, Seth Rollins vs. Brock Lesnar, SmackDown Tag Titles Fatal Four Way, Miz vs. Shane McMahon, Triple H vs. Batista, Elias/John Cena ‘Concert’, Finn Balor vs. Bobby Lashley, Kofi Kingston vs. Daniel Bryan WrestleMania 35 – Day 2 Watch Order: Zack Ryder & Curt Hawkins vs. Revival, Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, AJ Styles vs. Randy Orton, Women’s Tag Titles Fatal Four Way, Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre, Samoa Joe vs. Rey Mysterio, Kurt Angle vs. Baron Corbin, Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch Four of those matches were on the pre-show and are included on the BluRay as extras. In a rare move, WWE had the local have a feel good moment with Tony Nese winning the Cruiserweight Title from Buddy Murphy in a nice hybrid of strong style and high-flying that got the crowd hot by the end. In the WrestleMania Women’s Battle Royal, Carmella played the surprise last second sneak-in card to eliminate Sarah Logan and win the ‘prestigious’ hip/leg trophy. In a surprising second feel good hometown hero story, Curt Hawkins snapped his 269 match losing streak when him and his fellow bro-ski, Zack Ryder won the RAW tag titles from The Revival when Hawkins got the surprise inside cradle for the electric pop! In the final pre-show match, Braun Strowman won the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal by eliminating celebrity entrants, SNL’s Colin Jost & Michael Che. A lot of hype on RAW built up the SNL stars, but the two hid under the ring until the end of the match in their failed efforts to surprise eliminate Braun.

In the official WrestleMania opener, Seth Rollins won the Universal Title from Brock Lesnar. Their follow-up match at SummerSlam is leagues better, because all there is to this is Brock getting an early attack on Seth and brutalizing him outside the ring for a few minutes, and then only a couple minutes into the actual match Seth low blows Brock and hits a few stomps for the victory. Last few years something about Randy Orton has made his stock rise higher for me. I appreciate his ring IQ and psychology that allows matches to breathe, and Orton’s skills blended perfectly with AJ Styles with some convincing sequences before Styles hit a Phenomenal Forearm for the win. The first of two four way tag title matches occurred next with the Usos, The Bar, Rusev & Shinske Nakamura and Aleistar Black & Ricochet vying for the SmackDown straps. All four teams brought it, and did not appear they were there for an easy payday with the creative spots they unleashed with an innovative tower of doom spot and Cesaro’s countless swings to the crowd’s approval until the Usos hit their double top turnbuckle splash on Sheamus for the W. I loved the buildup for The Miz and Shane McMahon’s Falls Count Anywhere match. Miz gradually won over Shane’s trust all in the name to win his dad’s precious approval, only to then see Shane turn on Miz and attack Miz’s dad! I was not disappointed with how they got Miz’s dad involved in the match with Shane shaming Miz’s dad’s ability to fight. The two had a pretty solid brawl all over the arena that ultimately saw Miz deliver a suplex from the tech area scaffolding onto a crash pad, but saw Shane conveniently laid out barely over Miz to nudge out a three count for the fluke upset. The newly established Women’s tag titles were on the line with Sasha Banks & Bayley defending against the Iconics, Nia Jax & Tamina and Natalya & Beth Phoenix. A lot of controversy was reported on the champs throwing a tantrum backstage hearing they were losing the titles, which happened when Billie Kay stole a pin with a blind tag on Beth Phoenix after she hit a top rope Glam Slam. Minus a handful of moments, Sasha and Bayley’s main roster runs have been beyond disastrous compared to their rise up the ranks in NXT.

‘KofiMania’ emerged when Kofi Kingston vanquished that vile do-gooder, Daniel Bryan to become the first full blooded African American to win the WWE title in its near 60 year history. There were a couple of extended hold sequences in the front half that overstayed their welcome, but the back half amped up big time with some creative reversals, near-falls and clever use of the New Day and Erik Rowan on the outside. I was just as happy as the WWE locker room shown celebrating for Kofi after he hit the Trouble in Paradise to win the championship. He had a killer half year run as champ….until Brock Lesnar waffled him in seven seconds for the gold and Kofi immediately went right back to the midcard in his happy-go-lucky pancake thrower days of yore and acted like his championship run never happened. Samoa Joe finally got his overdue WrestleMania debut match against a recently returned Rey Mysterio. I presumed the two had an epic match lined up, but Rey got hurt the RAW before and was only capable of performing for about a minute before Joe locked in his trademark Kokina Clutch for the submission victory. Roman Reigns was up next in his first singles match coming back after overcoming a second bout of Leukemia for the heartwarming win against Drew McIntyre. I recall dreading the buildup for this because Drew had a variety of ‘you may have conquered cancer…’ type promos and hyped himself up as deadlier than cancer, when naturally everyone knew Roman was going to win, and that is exactly what we got in a formula Roman match. The read in the ardent fan crowd throughout the match was readily apparent, they were no longer booing Roman out of the building like they normally would, because what kind of person can boo a cancer survivor (please do not answer that)? However, there was no overwhelming crowd going wild reaction either, but more of a tempered, altruistic applause instead. That has primarily been Roman’s reception for coming back since, and that is kind of how I feel too.

Elias performed a one man ‘concert’ next complete with other hologram Elias projections playing in conjunction with him until John Cena interrupted. John came out in throwback Dr. Thugganomics form and laid down some rhymes before hitting a F-U to the crowd’s approval. The presumption going in by most was that Undertaker would make his requisite WrestleMania appearance here, but 2019 marked the first time since 2000 that Undertaker did not appear or wrestle in any form on a WrestleMania. Strangely enough, Undertaker did interrupt another Elias performance the next day on RAW. Triple H and Batista squared off in a No Holds Barred brawl next, and I recall being burnt out by this point in the card and nodding off throughout it. Match held up incredibly better on second viewing with the two busting out a wide variety of weaponry in too many gruesome spots to dissect, other than that grotesque nose ring spot that reverberated throughout everyone in the crowd. The finish saw Triple H hitting probably the slickest looking sledgehammer shot ever with some added trajectory by leaping off the stairs, and following it up with the Pedigree for the pin. Kurt Angle hit the end of the line in a few months of ‘farewell tour’ matches against Baron Corbin here. I was worried for Angle as his previous few matches saw him struggling to go through the motions, but a few weeks of added rest benefitted him here with him looking remarkably better and capable of several of his vintage suplexes and throws, and even busting out an impressive moonsault….that missed and lead him walking into an End of Days that netted Corbin the pinfall. Finn Balor faced Bobby Lashley in the penultimate match of the night, and the two delivered a short, but high energy match to help inject some energy into the understandably deflated crown by this point. Balor hit his Coup de Gras for the pin.

The 16th and final match of the night saw the women headline WrestleMania for the first time ever with the Women’s titles for both RAW and SmackDown on the line in a triple threat between Ronda Rousey, Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch. All three laid it in strong style in easily one of the hardest hitting women matches I have ever seen. All three were decorated with battle scars, especially Ronda’s leg! However, one significant botch tarnished the match, and unfortunately it happened right at the finish when Lynch countered Rousey’s Piper’s Pit slam with a crucifix for the pin. Rousey inadvertently popped her shoulder up during the pin, and the ref did not restart his count and continued with the controversial three count. Even the announcers did not turn a blind eye to it and questioned the ref’s call, and it turned out the ref was later fined for blowing the call. I am not going to recap the following night’s RAW, but I did watch it and will give a couple key takeaways since the RAW after WrestleManias are notorious for returns, and unpredictable fan reactions suffering from wrestling burnout. Rollins and Kofi teased a winner takes all title match, but it quickly morphed into a tag match after The Bar interfered to the crowd’s rightful disgust! The controversial Lars Sullivan debuted on the main roster, Sami Zayn returned and turned heel after nearly a year away from double rotator cuff surgery. Dana Brooke and Mojo Rawley both deliver bizarre backstage promos. There was the aforementioned Undertaker attack on Elias and finally Dean Ambrose’s final televised WWE match that did not officially get started because he brawled outside the ring with Bobby Lashley before getting sent through a table. There is one last BluRay bonus that has footage from after RAW went off the air, where Rollins called out Roman and Dean and brought them to the ring for one last curtain call from The Shield.

That puts a wrap on the yearly monstrous WrestleMania recap. Once again I give my heartfelt gratitude for sticking with me the whole way through this. It was a chore to get through the whole show live in one shot, but it definitely helped spacing it over a few days this second time around. Again, if there is any upside with WWE having to switch up their WrestleMania plans with the global pandemic currently happening, it is that them having WrestleMania transpire over two days will make it vastly more watchable, and decrease the burnout of trying to watch wrestling for seven hours straight. Throw in the wild cards of the empty arena and undisclosed filming locations for the gimmick matches, and well….check back with me here next year to see how it all played out.

Past Wrestling Blogs Best of WCW Clash of Champions Best of WCW Monday Nitro Volume 2 Best of WCW Monday Nitro Volume 3 Biggest Knuckleheads Bobby The Brain Heenan Daniel Bryan: Just Say Yes Yes Yes DDP: Positively Living Dusty Rhodes WWE Network Specials ECW Unreleased: Vol 1 ECW Unreleased: Vol 2 ECW Unreleased: Vol 3 Eric Bishoff: Wrestlings Most Controversial Figure Fight Owens Fight: The Kevin Owens Story For All Mankind Goldberg: The Ultimate Collection Hulk Hogans Unreleased Collectors Series Impact Wresting Presents: Best of Hulk Hogan Its Good to Be the King: The Jerry Lawler Story The Kliq Rules Ladies and Gentlemen My Name is Paul Heyman Legends of Mid South Wrestling Macho Man: The Randy Savage Story Memphis Heat NXT: From Secret to Sensation NXT Greatest Matches Vol 1 OMG Vol 2: Top 50 Incidents in WCW History OMG Vol 3: Top 50 Incidents in ECW History Owen: Hart of Gold RoH Supercard of Honor 2010-Present ScoobyDoo Wrestlemania Mystery Scott Hall: Living on a Razors Edge Shawn Michaels: My Journey Sting: Into the Light Straight Outta Dudley-ville: Legacy of the Dudley Boyz Straight to the Top: Money in the Bank Anthology Superstar Collection: Zach Ryder Then Now Forever – The Evolution of WWEs Womens Division TLC 2017 TNA Lockdown 2005-2016 Top 50 Superstars of All Time Tough Enough: Million Dollar Season True Giants Ultimate Fan Pack: Roman Reigns Ultimate Warrior: Always Believe War Games: WCWs Most Notorious Matches Warrior Week on WWE Network Wrestlemania III: Championship Edition Wrestlemania 28-Present The Wrestler (2008) Wrestling Road Diaries Too Wrestling Road Diaries Three: Funny Equals Money Wrestlings Greatest Factions WWE Network Original Specials First Half 2015 WWE Network Original Specials Second Half 2015 WWE Network Original Specials First Half 2016 WWE Network Original Specials Second Half 2016 WWE Network Original Specials First Half 2017

[ao3feed-bemorechill]

new place, new life

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2JOJm3N

by winchestered_again

prompt: movie crossovers

--------------------------

in the beginning, there were nine

now there are six

jeremy heere is tired of constantly moving, but he can't risk getting caught.

so the next best thing is to hide in the small town of Paradise and hope the mogadorians don't catch his trail.

(installment one)

Words: 784, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Series: Part 23 of One Shots

Fandoms: Be More Chill - Iconis/Tracz, The Lorien Legacies - All Media Types

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Jeremy Heere, Jeremy Heere's Father, Brooke Lohst

Relationships: Jeremy Heere & Brooke Lohst, Jeremy Heere & Jeremy Heere's Father

Additional Tags: AU, Alternate Universe, Anxiety, this will be a series eventually, but for now, Take this, no canon characters except maggie as of yet, since she isn't in the first book or movie, i'm taking some liberties here, more like the book than the movie, my fave scene is the camera moment between john and sarah, it translates well with brooke and jeremy, maybe a tiny bit of prior knowledge needed?, Most Likely Not, i want to say something abt sarah but spoilers, yes i changed brooke's last name to hart, arospec jeremy heere, demiromantic jeremy heere, garde jeremy, if the garde are basically humans with superpowers and extra durability, then does that technically make this a superhero au?, alien mentor mr. heere, the technical term is cepan for those who don't know, all lowercase bc why not, did i mention both Jeremy and mr. here are aliens?, didn't think so

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2JOJm3N

[librarycompany]

For nearly two hundred years, researchers of Philadelphia history from all disciplines and backgrounds have turned to John Fanning Watson’s extensive Annals of Philadelphia to help uncover the stories of the city’s past. First published in 1830 and subtitled “A Collection of Memoirs, Anecdotes, & Incidents of the City and Its Inhabitants from the Days of the Pilgrim Founders,” Watson’s Annals has become an enduring and impactful source of knowledge on a range of Philadelphia’s legacies that includes information on everything from agriculture and apparel to transportation and military history.

Library Company Print and Photograph Department intern and Haverford College student, Allison Wise, has spent the last few months working with our extra-illustrated copy of Watson’s Annals. Read all about it on the Library Company blog.

Watson, John Fanning. Annals of Philadelphia. Philadelphia: E. L. Carey & A. Hart, 1830.

William Birch, An Unfinished House, in Chesnut Street, Philadelphia (Philadelphia: William Birch, 1800).