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xxbottlecapx · 2 years

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I saw a video about a girl having focal seizures and this plot bunny came up

Steve was an idiot.

It was one of the only things that the party collectively agreed on. They loved him, don’t get them wrong, and they would never want him to leave them, or to even know that they thought it, but that was the way things were. He hadn’t done too well in school, unlike everyone else. Which was how the party would explain away all the weird things about him that they ascertained were simply him being an idiot. Zoning off constantly, confusion, taking increasingly long allotments of time to answer simple questions, mixing his words up. It was just Steve being Steve. A little dumb, slow on the uptake, but kind.

That is, until Eddie.

°•. ✿ .•°

“Your class is essentially your profession, and it'll outline the kind of role you’ll have within the party as a result.” Dustin said from the floor. He had a DND manual laying flat on the carpet. Steve was sitting criss cross beside him, staring almost too intently at the colorful pages, squinting.

“And your race will determine how your character looks, as well as giving you exclusive skills and features.”

The entire party was over for a sleepover. Robin, Argyle, and Jonathan were out by the pool smoking (if they had given Max some weed to help with joint pain, no one had to know) Nancy was teaching Eleven how to braid hair. Steve had given her one of his mothers wigs as a text subject. They have taken over half the livingroom floor.

Lucas was recovering from a hangover (which Steve was going to give him so much shit for once he had drank all his water and took some painkillers) and Will was stacking old slices of bread on Lucas’s face, the tower was 13 stacks long so far. Mike was sitting next to Will, watching him like a hawk. Erica was keeping a running tally of how many breads Will could stack before they fell. She was practicing rock balancing on lucas’s shin with the designer rocks from next door (don’t ask Steve why they were called designer rocks, he hadn’t asked, he just knows that’s what they’re called because once about a year ago he had cut across their rock-filled lawn and had gotten a mouthful for stepping on their designer rocks. Sue him. He helped Erica steal them a few hours ago.) she had 14 stacked, which was extremely impressive to everyone who saw it.

And Steve was trying to learn how to play DND. Dustin didn’t know that Steve actually had purchased his own dnd manual a few months back, but he had such a hard time reading (the letters moved!) that he had finally agreed to let Dustin teach him. Eddie was on the couch watching. He had been doing that a lot lately, they all had noticed. Watching Steve. The party had a betting pool on when Eddie was going to ask Steve out, since Eddie seemed to be the only one in the party who didn’t know Steve liked men.

“These features can include ability score increases, age and life expectancy changes, size differences, increased speeds, and unique languages.” Dustin moved his hands to show Steve a chart.

Steve swallowed hard once, twice, his left hand clenched and unclenched a few times. He blinked about seven times before speaking (Erica liked counting, she knew the exact average amount of times everyone in the party blinked in an hour. Steve had much more then the rest of them.)

“… What?”

“Oh my God, Steve. It’s not that hard. What do you not get?” Dustin rolled his eyes. He was starting to think this was a useless endeavor. Eddie quickly got up and grabbed a bottle from the table.

Steve squinted at him again, looked down to the paper, eyebrows drawn down.

“I- uh, en-“ Steve stumbled over his words. This could go on for minutes, in Dustin’s experience.

“That’s enough for now,” Eddie interrupted, setting the water into Steve’s lap. He quickly grabs at it with his right hand, gripping it hard enough that it almost broke.

“This would be so much easier if you just paid attention.” Dustin said, exasperated.

It took Steve a few seconds to roll his eyes. “Yeah, whatever.” He said eventually, sloppily knocking Dustin’s hat off his head. That sets Dustin off on a long rant about the history of hats and why they should be respected.

From above, Eddie looked like he was in pain. Dustin chose not to question why.

°•. ✿ .•°

Steve had made a pretty large chicken casserole for dinner, along with a cheesy salad looking thing and Bomboloni for desert.

“What soda do you want, Steve?” Robin asked, bending down to open the bottom of the fridge. It was absolutely humongous, with thirty different sections and labels on said sections. They all assumed that Steve’s parents had done that. He didn’t correct them. He just wanted them to always be able to find exactly what they were looking for if they were hungry.

Steve opened his mouth, then closed it again. Eddie turned quickly from his place to Steve’s left.

“Ash…” Steve closed his mouth again. “Ad-“

Dustin snorted so hard that he started choking. Will silently clapped his back. Robin grinned from her place near the fridge, shaking her head. He did this frequently.

After about a minute of confused mumbling, Steve finally gets his words across.

“A Slice Strawberry Soda.”

Robin gently poked fun at him as she handed it to him. The rest of the party proceeded to start in their little let’s joke about Steve debacle, which Steve always took like a champ.

And then of course, Eddie had to be the one to set them straight.

“Steve,” Eddie said gently. “Do you know you’ve been having seizures?”

°•. ✿ .•°

It was called a Focal seizure. Most common with those who have had frequent head injuries. Symptoms were: motor spasms (like aggressive swallowing, blinking, and hand clenching) Staring blankly into space, confusion, sight issues, and speech problems.

They didn’t look like the seizures you were used to seeing. A lot of the time, people wouldn’t even know that they were having them. You can be fully conscious when they happen, mistake them for a panic attack or a simple migraine.

Eddie only caught it because his mother had had them before she died.

At first, the party thinks he’s being delusional. But then Dustin decides the party is going to skip school and check the library.

They all come to the collective decision that Steve definitely was having focal seizures. Steve wasn't an idiot. He was having seizures the entire time.

They don’t apologize for making fun of him, but they do feel bad about it. They do stop making fun of him for being stupid, though. At least until he tells them they’re allowed to smile at him when he’s having one. Steve claims it makes him feel weird when they all suddenly start acting like he’s going to die.

“Ha- wait, tsh-“ Steve paused, his hand spasming around the dice he had been about to throw.

It took them a while, but teaching Steve DND was much easier when they just spent more time letting him figure it out without pressuring him. This was his first session. It was proving to be a success, since Eddie (a very brutal DM) had such a soft spot for Steve that he was letting a lot more things slide when he was there.

“Youre having a seizure, Steve.” Eddie told him, bringing his hands down to his notes. Will had just rolled a nat-20 and saved half the party from getting eaten by a dragon.

“Ween-“ Steve squinted his eyes.

“A seizure, Steve. Can you say seizure?” Eddie took the sharp dice out of Steve’s hand so he wouldn’t hurt himself (they were made by Argyle, who didn’t how to properly use a sander. Erica, Lucas, and Mike all already had splinters from holding it) Dustin and the rest started talking about what to do next to get past a river full of lava.

"Hnnn”

“Try again.” Sometimes Steve wouldn’t catch the seizure, and think he was saying something that made sense when it didn’t. It explained a lot. So sometimes when someone else caught it, they’d let him know so he knew why no one knew what he was saying.

“Shhh,”

Eddie smiled gently at him. He looked like one of those cartoon characters that have hearts shooting out of their eyes (Erica words) “You got it.”

“Sheizure,” Steve mumbled, “seizure.”

“There we go, you’re back.”

The game continued.

Sources

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/epilepsy/focal-seizures

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/seizures-focal-partial

https://milesanthonysmith.com/blog/33-nostalgic-discontinued-reintroduced-sodas-from-the-80s-90s-00s/

Https://www.foodandwine.com/desserts/italian-desserts

Https://www.gamesradar.com/how-to-create-your-first-character-in-dandd/

https://www.epilepsynorcal.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Partial_Seizures.pdf

#steve harrington #steddie #eddie munson #steve x eddie #steveddie #eddie x steve #robin buckley #eddie the freak munson #stranger things #steve has seizures #eddie is in love

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brokehorrorfan · 5 months

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The Gate will be released on Blu-ray (with Digital) in Steelbook packaging on May 14 exclusively at Walmart for $19.96. Other than the packaging, the disc is identical to Lionsgate's Vestron Video release from 2017.

The 1987 horror cult classic is directed by Tibor Takács (Sabrina the Teenage Witch) and written by Michael Nankin. Stephen Dorff, Louis Tripp, Christa Denton, Kelly Rowan, and Jennifer Irwin star.

Vance Kelly designed the Steelbook art. Special features are listed below, where you can also see the interior layout.

Special features:

Audio commentaries by director Tibor Takacs, writer Michael Nankin, and special effects designer Randall William Cook

Audio commentary by special effects designer Randall William Cook, special make-up effects artist Craig Reardon, special effects artist Frank Carere, and matte photographer Bill Taylor

Isolated score selections and audio interview with composers Michael Hoenig and J. Peter Robinson

The Gate: Unlocked featurette

Minion Maker featurette

From Hell It Came featurette

The Workman Speaks! featurette

Made in Canada featurette

From Hell: The Creatures & Demons of The Gate featurette

The Gatekeepers featurette

Making of The Gate featurette

Teaser trailer

Theatrical trailer

TV spot

Storyboard gallery

Behind-the-scenes still gallery

When best friends Glen and Terry stumble across a mysterious crystalline rock in Glen’s backyard, they quickly dig up the newly sodden lawn searching for more precious stones. Instead, they unearth The Gate — an underground chamber of terrifying demonic evil. The teenagers soon understand what evil they’ve released as they are overcome with an assortment of horrific experiences. With fiendish followers invading suburbia, it’s now up to the kids to discover the secret that can lock The Gate forever… if it’s not too late.

Pre-order The Gate.

#the gate #horror #80s horror #1980s horror #stephen dorff #vestron video #steelbook #dvd #gift #vance kelly #tibor takács #kelly rowan #cult classic #80s movies #1980s movies

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visit-new-york · 1 year

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Are pets allowed in Brooklyn Bridge Park, and are there designated areas for them?

Exploring Pet-Friendly Spaces in Brooklyn Bridge Park: A Guide for Pet Owners

Brooklyn Bridge Park stands as a picturesque oasis along the East River, offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. As a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, many pet owners wonder whether their furry companions are welcome in this urban haven. In this article, we'll explore the pet policies at Brooklyn Bridge Park and discover if there are designated areas for our four-legged friends.

Pet Policies at Brooklyn Bridge Park:

Brooklyn Bridge Park prides itself on being a community space that accommodates a diverse range of visitors, including those with pets. The park allows leashed dogs, making it a welcoming environment for pet owners looking to enjoy the outdoors with their canine companions. However, it's crucial for pet owners to adhere to the leash requirement to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Designated Pet Areas:

While Brooklyn Bridge Park doesn't have specific sections exclusively reserved for pets, the entire park is open to leashed dogs. This means that you and your furry friend can explore the various sections of the park, from the lush lawns to the scenic waterfront, all while following the park's guidelines.

Tips for Pet Owners at Brooklyn Bridge Park:

Keep Dogs on Leashes: To ensure a harmonious experience for all visitors, it's essential to keep your dog on a leash at all times. This helps prevent any unwanted interactions between pets and ensures the safety of both animals and park-goers.

Respect Other Visitors: Not everyone may be comfortable around dogs, so it's important to be mindful of other park visitors. Keep a reasonable distance from people who may not be as enthusiastic about interacting with pets.

Clean Up After Your Pet: Be a responsible pet owner by carrying waste bags and promptly cleaning up after your dog. This helps maintain the cleanliness of the park and ensures a positive experience for everyone.

Check for Specific Events: While the park is generally pet-friendly, it's a good idea to check for any specific events or temporary restrictions that may affect pet access. The park occasionally hosts events that might limit access to certain areas.

Conclusion:

Brooklyn Bridge Park is indeed a pet-friendly destination, welcoming dogs on leashes to enjoy the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere. With a commitment to creating an inclusive space for the community, the park allows pet owners to explore its various attractions while being mindful of guidelines and fellow visitors. So, grab your leash, enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, and relish the beauty of Brooklyn Bridge Park with your beloved furry companion.

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justinspoliticalcorner · 5 months

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Eric Cortellessa at Time:

Donald Trump thinks he’s identified a crucial mistake of his first term: He was too nice. We’ve been talking for more than an hour on April 12 at his fever-dream palace in Palm Beach. Aides lurk around the perimeter of a gilded dining room overlooking the manicured lawn. When one nudges me to wrap up the interview, I bring up the many former Cabinet officials who refuse to endorse Trump this time. Some have publicly warned that he poses a danger to the Republic. Why should voters trust you, I ask, when some of the people who observed you most closely do not? As always, Trump punches back, denigrating his former top advisers. But beneath the typical torrent of invective, there is a larger lesson he has taken away. “I let them quit because I have a heart. I don’t want to embarrass anybody,” Trump says. “I don’t think I’ll do that again. From now on, I’ll fire.” Six months from the 2024 presidential election, Trump is better positioned to win the White House than at any point in either of his previous campaigns. He leads Joe Biden by slim margins in most polls, including in several of the seven swing states likely to determine the outcome. But I had not come to ask about the election, the disgrace that followed the last one, or how he has become the first former—and perhaps future—American President to face a criminal trial. I wanted to know what Trump would do if he wins a second term, to hear his vision for the nation, in his own words.

What emerged in two interviews with Trump, and conversations with more than a dozen of his closest advisers and confidants, were the outlines of an imperial presidency that would reshape America and its role in the world. To carry out a deportation operation designed to remove more than 11 million people from the country, Trump told me, he would be willing to build migrant detention camps and deploy the U.S. military, both at the border and inland. He would let red states monitor women’s pregnancies and prosecute those who violate abortion bans. He would, at his personal discretion, withhold funds appropriated by Congress, according to top advisers. He would be willing to fire a U.S. Attorney who doesn’t carry out his order to prosecute someone, breaking with a tradition of independent law enforcement that dates from America’s founding. He is weighing pardons for every one of his supporters accused of attacking the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, more than 800 of whom have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury. He might not come to the aid of an attacked ally in Europe or Asia if he felt that country wasn’t paying enough for its own defense. He would gut the U.S. civil service, deploy the National Guard to American cities as he sees fit, close the White House pandemic-preparedness office, and staff his Administration with acolytes who back his false assertion that the 2020 election was stolen. Trump remains the same guy, with the same goals and grievances. But in person, if anything, he appears more assertive and confident. “When I first got to Washington, I knew very few people,” he says. “I had to rely on people.” Now he is in charge. The arranged marriage with the timorous Republican Party stalwarts is over; the old guard is vanquished, and the people who remain are his people. Trump would enter a second term backed by a slew of policy shops staffed by loyalists who have drawn up detailed plans in service of his agenda, which would concentrate the powers of the state in the hands of a man whose appetite for power appears all but insatiable. “I don’t think it’s a big mystery what his agenda would be,” says his close adviser Kellyanne Conway. “But I think people will be surprised at the alacrity with which he will take action.”

The courts, the Constitution, and a Congress of unknown composition would all have a say in whether Trump’s objectives come to pass. The machinery of Washington has a range of defenses: leaks to a free press, whistle-blower protections, the oversight of inspectors general. The same deficiencies of temperament and judgment that hindered him in the past remain present. If he wins, Trump would be a lame duck—contrary to the suggestions of some supporters, he tells TIME he would not seek to overturn or ignore the Constitution’s prohibition on a third term. Public opinion would also be a powerful check. Amid a popular outcry, Trump was forced to scale back some of his most draconian first-term initiatives, including the policy of separating migrant families. As George Orwell wrote in 1945, the ability of governments to carry out their designs “depends on the general temper in the country.” Every election is billed as a national turning point. This time that rings true. To supporters, the prospect of Trump 2.0, unconstrained and backed by a disciplined movement of true believers, offers revolutionary promise. To much of the rest of the nation and the world, it represents an alarming risk. A second Trump term could bring “the end of our democracy,” says presidential historian Douglas Brinkley, “and the birth of a new kind of authoritarian presidential order.”

[...] The spectacle picks up where his first term left off. The events of Jan. 6, during which a pro-Trump mob attacked the center of American democracy in an effort to subvert the peaceful transfer of power, was a profound stain on his legacy. Trump has sought to recast an insurrectionist riot as an act of patriotism. “I call them the J-6 patriots,” he says. When I ask whether he would consider pardoning every one of them, he says, “Yes, absolutely.” As Trump faces dozens of felony charges, including for election interference, conspiracy to defraud the United States, willful retention of national-security secrets, and falsifying business records to conceal hush-money payments, he has tried to turn legal peril into a badge of honor. [...] In a second term, Trump’s influence on American democracy would extend far beyond pardoning powers. Allies are laying the groundwork to restructure the presidency in line with a doctrine called the unitary executive theory, which holds that many of the constraints imposed on the White House by legislators and the courts should be swept away in favor of a more powerful Commander in Chief.

Nowhere would that power be more momentous than at the Department of Justice. Since the nation’s earliest days, Presidents have generally kept a respectful distance from Senate-confirmed law-enforcement officials to avoid exploiting for personal ends their enormous ability to curtail Americans’ freedoms. But Trump, burned in his first term by multiple investigations directed by his own appointees, is ever more vocal about imposing his will directly on the department and its far-flung investigators and prosecutors.

[...] Trump’s radical designs for presidential power would be felt throughout the country. A main focus is the southern border. Trump says he plans to sign orders to reinstall many of the same policies from his first term, such as the Remain in Mexico program, which requires that non-Mexican asylum seekers be sent south of the border until their court dates, and Title 42, which allows border officials to expel migrants without letting them apply for asylum. Advisers say he plans to cite record border crossings and fentanyl- and child-trafficking as justification for reimposing the emergency measures. He would direct federal funding to resume construction of the border wall, likely by allocating money from the military budget without congressional approval. The capstone of this program, advisers say, would be a massive deportation operation that would target millions of people. Trump made similar pledges in his first term, but says he plans to be more aggressive in a second. “People need to be deported,” says Tom Homan, a top Trump adviser and former acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “No one should be off the table.”

[...] As President, Trump nominated three Supreme Court Justices who voted to overturn Roe v. Wade, and he claims credit for his role in ending a constitutional right to an abortion. At the same time, he has sought to defuse a potent campaign issue for the Democrats by saying he wouldn’t sign a federal ban. In our interview at Mar-a-Lago, he declines to commit to vetoing any additional federal restrictions if they came to his desk. More than 20 states now have full or partial abortion bans, and Trump says those policies should be left to the states to do what they want, including monitoring women’s pregnancies. “I think they might do that,” he says. When I ask whether he would be comfortable with states prosecuting women for having abortions beyond the point the laws permit, he says, “It’s irrelevant whether I’m comfortable or not. It’s totally irrelevant, because the states are going to make those decisions.” President Biden has said he would fight state anti-abortion measures in court and with regulation.

Trump’s allies don’t plan to be passive on abortion if he returns to power. The Heritage Foundation has called for enforcement of a 19th century statute that would outlaw the mailing of abortion pills. The Republican Study Committee (RSC), which includes more than 80% of the House GOP conference, included in its 2025 budget proposal the Life at Conception Act, which says the right to life extends to “the moment of fertilization.” I ask Trump if he would veto that bill if it came to his desk. “I don’t have to do anything about vetoes,” Trump says, “because we now have it back in the states.”

Presidents typically have a narrow window to pass major legislation. Trump’s team is eyeing two bills to kick off a second term: a border-security and immigration package, and an extension of his 2017 tax cuts. Many of the latter’s provisions expire early in 2025: the tax cuts on individual income brackets, 100% business expensing, the doubling of the estate-tax deduction. Trump is planning to intensify his protectionist agenda, telling me he’s considering a tariff of more than 10% on all imports, and perhaps even a 100% tariff on some Chinese goods. Trump says the tariffs will liberate the U.S. economy from being at the mercy of foreign manufacturing and spur an industrial renaissance in the U.S. When I point out that independent analysts estimate Trump’s first term tariffs on thousands of products, including steel and aluminum, solar panels, and washing machines, may have cost the U.S. $316 billion and more than 300,000 jobs, by one account, he dismisses these experts out of hand. His advisers argue that the average yearly inflation rate in his first term—under 2%—is evidence that his tariffs won’t raise prices. [...]

Trump’s intention to remake America’s relations abroad may be just as consequential. Since its founding, the U.S. has sought to build and sustain alliances based on the shared values of political and economic freedom. Trump takes a much more transactional approach to international relations than his predecessors, expressing disdain for what he views as free-riding friends and appreciation for authoritarian leaders like President Xi Jinping of China, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán of Hungary, or former President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil. That’s one reason America’s traditional allies were horrified when Trump recently said at a campaign rally that Russia could “do whatever the hell they want” to a NATO country he believes doesn’t spend enough on collective defense. That wasn’t idle bluster, Trump tells me. “If you’re not going to pay, then you’re on your own,” he says. Trump has long said the alliance is ripping the U.S. off. Former NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg credited Trump’s first-term threat to pull out of the alliance with spurring other members to add more than $100 billion to their defense budgets.

[...] Trump has historically been reluctant to criticize or confront Putin. He sided with the Russian autocrat over his own intelligence community when it asserted that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. Even now, Trump uses Putin as a foil for his own political purposes. When I asked Trump why he has not called for the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been unjustly held on spurious charges in a Moscow prison for a year, Trump says, “I guess because I have so many other things I’m working on.” Gershkovich should be freed, he adds, but he doubts it will happen before the election. “The reporter should be released and he will be released,” Trump tells me. “I don’t know if he’s going to be released under Biden. I would get him released.” America’s Asian allies, like its European ones, may be on their own under Trump. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister recently said aid to Ukraine was critical in deterring Xi from invading the island. Communist China’s leaders “have to understand that things like that can’t come easy,” Trump says, but he declines to say whether he would come to Taiwan’s defense.

[...] Yet even his support for Israel is not absolute. He’s criticized Israel’s handling of its war against Hamas, which has killed more than 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza, and has called for the nation to “get it over with.” When I ask whether he would consider withholding U.S. military aid to Israel to push it toward winding down the war, he doesn’t say yes, but he doesn’t rule it out, either. He is sharply critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, once a close ally. “I had a bad experience with Bibi,” Trump says. In his telling, a January 2020 U.S. operation to assassinate a top Iranian general was supposed to be a joint attack until Netanyahu backed out at the last moment. “That was something I never forgot,” he says. He blames Netanyahu for failing to prevent the Oct. 7 attack, when Hamas militants infiltrated southern Israel and killed nearly 1,200 people amid acts of brutality including burning entire families alive and raping women and girls. “It happened on his watch,” Trump says.

[...] Another inside move is the enforcement of Schedule F, which allows the President to fire nonpolitical government officials and which Trump says he would embrace. “You have some people that are protected that shouldn’t be protected,” he says. A senior U.S. judge offers an example of how consequential such a move could be. Suppose there’s another pandemic, and President Trump wants to push the use of an untested drug, much as he did with hydroxychloroquine during COVID-19. Under Schedule F, if the drug’s medical reviewer at the Food and Drug Administration refuses to sign off on its use, Trump could fire them, and anyone else who doesn’t approve it. The Trump team says the President needs the power to hold bureaucrats accountable to voters. “The mere mention of Schedule F,” says Vought, “ensures that the bureaucracy moves in your direction.”

TIME Magazine interviewed 2024 GOP Republican nominee Donald Trump twice over the span of just over two weeks, and in those interviews, Trump told Time's Eric Cortellessa his plans for what his 2nd term would be.

His plans would include a full-scale fascist takeover of the United States should he get elected to a 2nd term are as follows:

He would enact draconian anti-immigration policies such as deporting 11M+ undocumented immigrants and build concentration camps for not just undocumented immigrants but those opposed to his agenda.

He would also aid and abet in cruel anti-abortion policies that invade the privacy of a pregnant person and criminalize those who obtain abortions.

He would destroy the nonpartisan civil service system by enacting Schedule F to give jobs to his MAGA cronies.

He would pardon every domestic terrorist who participated in the J6 Capitol Insurrection that he incited.

He would endanger national security by refusing to come to the aid of our allies if attacked, effectively doing China and Russia's bidding.

He would summon the National Guard and the military to put down protests against him and his anti-American regime.

He would turn the DOJ into his partisan political tool to go after his critics.

The Project 2025 agenda would be used to guide Trump into making decisions that would end America as a beacon of freedom and democracy.

These interviews he gave to Time should be a remind that America does not vote to put the tyrant back in office and that re-electing Joe Biden is essential to keeping America free.

See Also:

Time: Full transcript of Time's two interviews with Trump.

Read the full article at Time Magazine.

#Donald Trump #2024 Elections #2024 Presidential Election #Fascism #Joe Biden #Schedule F #Abortion #Immigration #Eric Cortellessa #Time Magazine #Time #Unitary Executive Theory #Life At Conception Act #Project 2025

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squarebill · 1 month

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Continued from here So, the Little Golden Books thing reminded me of a Little Golden Book I had read involving Winnie the Pooh. Not that surprising - there are many Disney properties (and others!) that get turned into Little Golden Books. But maybe I was thinking about it because I was thinking of the silly little blurb in the newspaper (the one that pulls up when you type WEIRDMAGEDDON into the computer). It talks about how Soos gets his head stuck in a clay honey pot. So silly! This is obviously a Winnie the Pooh reference as Winnie the Pooh is often getting his head stuck in honey pots. It's cute and silly, but also... Kind of odd? But that's Soos for you. And then, I was thinking... Wait. Soos is the one who fixed the thisisnotawebsitedotcom. FIXINIT1 also cuts to a supercut of scenes with Fixin It with Soos (unrelated, but that cuckoo clock looks like Bill?), the L IS REAL 2401 password that you can put in the computer leads to Soos making a little "Doo doo doo" to the Mario theme, the "BOOBERRY" code pulls up a question mark symbol with a rant by Bill that's titled "The Meaning of Life." The question mark symbol has always been associated with Soos. And I thought to myself, well... Maybe I should just... Go take a look at Winnie the Pooh's wikipedia page. Now We Are Six (1927) - Hmm. Okay. That could be nothing, though. Ashdown Forest. Valley of Ashes??? Coincidence, probably.

Ahahaha. Little triangle/pyramid thingies in the background. But hey! Triangles are a common shape! It's fine. And then, I read this on the wikipedia page From the front lawn the family had a view across a meadow to a line of alders that fringed the River Medway, beyond which the ground rose through more trees until finally "above them, in the faraway distance, crowning the view, was a bare hilltop. In the centre of this hilltop was a clump of pines." Hilltop. Clump of Pines. Okay, okay, maybe I'm just stretching here.

OKAY MAYBE I'M CONSPIRACY-ING TOO MUCH! (Found in the newspaper picture) In the Milne books, Pooh is naive and slow-witted, but he is also friendly, thoughtful, and steadfast. Although he and his friends agree that he is "a bear of very little brain", Pooh is occasionally acknowledged to have a clever idea, usually driven by common sense. <- Sounds like Soos. Pooh makes it a habit to have "a little something" around 11:00 in the morning. As the clock in his house "stopped at five minutes to eleven some weeks ago", any time can be Pooh's snack time. <- Around 11:00... like how Alex Hirsch is apparently supposed to go through a maintenance update at 11:30 AM? And the clock being stopped... Like how in FixinIt with Soos, Stan notes that the new and improved cuckoo clock seems to be permanently set to 1:50. Again, maybe stretching here. Maybe not. Now, here's something that gets interesting. That I think might be a theme we've seen thus far with the Book of Bill and now, perhaps this as well. A. A. Milne's U.S. copyright on the Winnie-the-Pooh character expired on 1 January 2022, as it had been 95 years since publication of the first story. The character has thus entered the public domain in the United States and Disney no longer holds exclusive rights there. Winnie the Pooh is in the public domain. Along with the Great Gatsby (which was referenced in the Book of Bill). And what else? Remember Alex had a display set-up of Bill infecting other books? Books that were in the public domain. I'm not through yet. If you scroll down much further on Winnie the Pooh's wikipedia page, there's this: 1960: Shirley Temple's Storybook on NBC: Winnie-the-Pooh—a version for marionettes, designed, made, and operated by Bil and Cora Baird. Bil missing a letter L. Marionettes are basically puppets. I decided to take a quick detour to Bil Baird's wikipedia page and...

IS THAT THE INSPIRATION FOR BEARO?! Baird grew up in Mason City, Iowa. <- MASON?! "Flannel Mouse" the Villain "Ronald Rodent" OKAY! Back to Winnie the Pooh - Winnie the Pooh has inspired multiple texts to explain complex philosophical ideas. Benjamin Hoff uses Milne's characters in The Tao of Pooh and The Te of Piglet to explain Taoism. Similarly, Frederick Crews wrote essays about the Pooh books in abstruse academic jargon in The Pooh Perplex and Postmodern Pooh to satirise a range of philosophical approaches.[90] Pooh and the Philosophers by John T. Williams uses Winnie the Pooh as a backdrop to illustrate the works of philosophers, including Descartes, Kant, Plato and Nietzsche. WAIT, WAIT. WINNIE THE POOH?! PHILOSOPHY?! PLATO?!

#thisisnotawebsitedotcom #book of bill #public domain #conspiracy #gravity falls

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ridenwithbiden · 5 months

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26 MINUTE READ (w/o ads)

APRIL 30, 2024 7:00 AM EDT

Donald Trump thinks he’s identified a crucial mistake of his first term: He was too nice.

We’ve been talking for more than an hour on April 12 at his fever-dream palace in Palm Beach. Aides lurk around the perimeter of a gilded dining room overlooking the manicured lawn. When one nudges me to wrap up the interview, I bring up the many former Cabinet officials who refuse to endorse Trump this time. Some have publicly warned that he poses a danger to the Republic. Why should voters trust you, I ask, when some of the people who observed you most closely do not?

As always, Trump punches back, denigrating his former top advisers. But beneath the typical torrent of invective, there is a larger lesson he has taken away. “I let them quit because I have a heart. I don’t want to embarrass anybody,” Trump says. “I don’t think I’ll do that again. From now on, I’ll fire.”

Six months from the 2024 presidential election, Trump is better positioned to win the White House than at any point in either of his previous campaigns. He leads Joe Biden by slim margins in most polls, including in several of the seven swing states likely to determine the outcome. But I had not come to ask about the election, the disgrace that followed the last one, or how he has become the first former—and perhaps future—American President to face a criminal trial. I wanted to know what Trump would do if he wins a second term, to hear his vision for the nation, in his own words.

Trump remains the same guy, with the same goals and grievances. But in person, if anything, he appears more assertive and confident. “When I first got to Washington, I knew very few people,” he says. “I had to rely on people.” Now he is in charge. The arranged marriage with the timorous Republican Party stalwarts is over; the old guard is vanquished, and the people who remain are his people. Trump would enter a second term backed by a slew of policy shops staffed by loyalists who have drawn up detailed plans in service of his agenda, which would concentrate the powers of the state in the hands of a man whose appetite for power appears all but insatiable. “I don’t think it’s a big mystery what his agenda would be,” says his close adviser Kellyanne Conway. “But I think people will be surprised at the alacrity with which he will take action.”

Every election is billed as a national turning point. This time that rings true. To supporters, the prospect of Trump 2.0, unconstrained and backed by a disciplined movement of true believers, offers revolutionary promise. To much of the rest of the nation and the world, it represents an alarming risk. A second Trump term could bring “the end of our democracy,” says presidential historian Douglas Brinkley, “and the birth of a new kind of authoritarian presidential order.”

Trump steps onto the patio at Mar-a-Lago near dusk. The well-heeled crowd eating Wagyu steaks and grilled branzino pauses to applaud as he takes his seat. On this gorgeous evening, the club is a MAGA mecca. Billionaire donor Steve Wynn is here. So is Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, who is dining with the former President after a joint press conference proposing legislation to prevent noncitizens from voting. Their voting in federal elections is already illegal, and extremely rare, but remains a Trumpian fixation that the embattled Speaker appeared happy to co-sign in exchange for the political cover that standing with Trump provides.

At the moment, though, Trump’s attention is elsewhere. With an index finger, he swipes through an iPad on the table to curate the restaurant’s soundtrack. The playlist veers from Sinead O’Connor to James Brown to The Phantom of the Opera. And there’s a uniquely Trump choice: a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” sung by a choir of defendants imprisoned for attacking the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, interspersed with a recording of Trump reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. This has become a staple of his rallies, converting the ultimate symbol of national unity into a weapon of factional devotion.

The spectacle picks up where his first term left off. The events of Jan. 6, during which a pro-Trump mob attacked the center of American democracy in an effort to subvert the peaceful transfer of power, was a profound stain on his legacy. Trump has sought to recast an insurrectionist riot as an act of patriotism. “I call them the J-6 patriots,” he says. When I ask whether he would consider pardoning every one of them, he says, “Yes, absolutely.” As Trump faces dozens of felony charges, including for election interference, conspiracy to defraud the United States, willful retention of national-security secrets, and falsifying business records to conceal hush-money payments, he has tried to turn legal peril into a badge of honor.

In a second term, Trump’s influence on American democracy would extend far beyond pardoning powers. Allies are laying the groundwork to restructure the presidency in line with a doctrine called the unitary executive theory, which holds that many of the constraints imposed on the White House by legislators and the courts should be swept away in favor of a more powerful Commander in Chief.

In our Mar-a-Lago interview, Trump says he might fire U.S. Attorneys who refuse his orders to prosecute someone: “It would depend on the situation.” He’s told supporters he would seek retribution against his enemies in a second term. Would that include Fani Willis, the Atlanta-area district attorney who charged him with election interference, or Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan DA in the Stormy Daniels case, who Trump has previously said should be prosecuted? Trump demurs but offers no promises. “No, I don’t want to do that,” he says, before adding, “We’re gonna look at a lot of things. What they’ve done is a terrible thing.”

Trump has also vowed to appoint a “real special prosecutor” to go after Biden. “I wouldn’t want to hurt Biden,” he tells me. “I have too much respect for the office.” Seconds later, though, he suggests Biden’s fate may be tied to an upcoming Supreme Court ruling on whether Presidents can face criminal prosecution for acts committed in office. “If they said that a President doesn’t get immunity,” says Trump, “then Biden, I am sure, will be prosecuted for all of his crimes.” (Biden has not been charged with any, and a House Republican effort to impeach him has failed to unearth evidence of any crimes or misdemeanors, high or low.)

Such moves would be potentially catastrophic for the credibility of American law enforcement, scholars and former Justice Department leaders from both parties say. “If he ordered an improper prosecution, I would expect any respectable U.S. Attorney to say no,” says Michael McConnell, a former U.S. appellate judge appointed by President George W. Bush. “If the President fired the U.S. Attorney, it would be an enormous firestorm.” McConnell, now a Stanford law professor, says the dismissal could have a cascading effect similar to the Saturday Night Massacre, when President Richard Nixon ordered top DOJ officials to remove the special counsel investigating Watergate. Presidents have the constitutional right to fire U.S. Attorneys, and typically replace their predecessors’ appointees upon taking office. But discharging one specifically for refusing a President’s order would be all but unprecedented.

Trump’s radical designs for presidential power would be felt throughout the country. A main focus is the southern border. Trump says he plans to sign orders to reinstall many of the same policies from his first term, such as the Remain in Mexico program, which requires that non-Mexican asylum seekers be sent south of the border until their court dates, and Title 42, which allows border officials to expel migrants without letting them apply for asylum. Advisers say he plans to cite record border crossings and fentanyl- and child-trafficking as justification for reimposing the emergency measures. He would direct federal funding to resume construction of the border wall, likely by allocating money from the military budget without congressional approval. The capstone of this program, advisers say, would be a massive deportation operation that would target millions of people. Trump made similar pledges in his first term, but says he plans to be more aggressive in a second. “People need to be deported,” says Tom Homan, a top Trump adviser and former acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “No one should be off the table.”

For an operation of that scale, Trump says he would rely mostly on the National Guard to round up and remove undocumented migrants throughout the country. “If they weren’t able to, then I’d use [other parts of] the military,” he says. When I ask if that means he would override the Posse Comitatus Act—an 1878 law that prohibits the use of military force on civilians—Trump seems unmoved by the weight of the statute. “Well, these aren’t civilians,” he says. “These are people that aren’t legally in our country.” He would also seek help from local police and says he would deny funding for jurisdictions that decline to adopt his policies. “There’s a possibility that some won’t want to participate,” Trump says, “and they won’t partake in the riches.”

As President, Trump nominated three Supreme Court Justices who voted to overturn Roe v. Wade, and he claims credit for his role in ending a constitutional right to an abortion. At the same time, he has sought to defuse a potent campaign issue for the Democrats by saying he wouldn’t sign a federal ban. In our interview at Mar-a-Lago, he declines to commit to vetoing any additional federal restrictions if they came to his desk. More than 20 states now have full or partial abortion bans, and Trump says those policies should be left to the states to do what they want, including monitoring women’s pregnancies. “I think they might do that,” he says. When I ask whether he would be comfortable with states prosecuting women for having abortions beyond the point the laws permit, he says, “It’s irrelevant whether I’m comfortable or not. It’s totally irrelevant, because the states are going to make those decisions.” President Biden has said he would fight state anti-abortion measures in court and with regulation.

Since leaving office, Trump has tried to engineer a caucus of the compliant, clearing primary fields in Senate and House races. His hope is that GOP majorities replete with MAGA diehards could rubber-stamp his legislative agenda and nominees. Representative Jim Banks of Indiana, a former RSC chairman and the GOP nominee for the state’s open Senate seat, recalls an August 2022 RSC planning meeting with Trump at his residence in Bedminster, N.J. As the group arrived, Banks recalls, news broke that Mar-a-Lago had been raided by the FBI. Banks was sure the meeting would be canceled. Moments later, Trump walked through the doors, defiant and pledging to run again. “I need allies there when I’m elected,” Banks recalls Trump saying. The difference in a second Trump term, Banks says now, “is he’s going to have the backup in Congress that he didn’t have before.”

That’s one reason America’s traditional allies were horrified when Trump recently said at a campaign rally that Russia could “do whatever the hell they want” to a NATO country he believes doesn’t spend enough on collective defense. That wasn’t idle bluster, Trump tells me. “If you’re not going to pay, then you’re on your own,” he says. Trump has long said the alliance is ripping the U.S. off. Former NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg credited Trump’s first-term threat to pull out of the alliance with spurring other members to add more than $100 billion to their defense budgets.

But an insecure NATO is as likely to accrue to Russia’s benefit as it is to America’s. President Vladimir Putin’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine looks to many in Europe and the U.S. like a test of his broader vision to reconstruct the Soviet empire. Under Biden and a bipartisan Congress, the U.S. has sent more than $100 billion to Ukraine to defend itself. It’s unlikely Trump would extend the same support to Kyiv. After Orban visited Mar-a-Lago in March, he said Trump “wouldn’t give a penny” to Ukraine. “I wouldn’t give unless Europe starts equalizing,” Trump hedges in our interview. “If Europe is not going to pay, why should we pay? They’re much more greatly affected. We have an ocean in between us. They don’t.” (E.U. nations have given more than $100 billion in aid to Ukraine as well.)

Trump has historically been reluctant to criticize or confront Putin. He sided with the Russian autocrat over his own intelligence community when it asserted that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. Even now, Trump uses Putin as a foil for his own political purposes. When I asked Trump why he has not called for the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been unjustly held on spurious charges in a Moscow prison for a year, Trump says, “I guess because I have so many other things I’m working on.” Gershkovich should be freed, he adds, but he doubts it will happen before the election. “The reporter should be released and he will be released,” Trump tells me. “I don’t know if he’s going to be released under Biden. I would get him released.”

America’s Asian allies, like its European ones, may be on their own under Trump. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister recently said aid to Ukraine was critical in deterring Xi from invading the island. Communist China’s leaders “have to understand that things like that can’t come easy,” Trump says, but he declines to say whether he would come to Taiwan’s defense.

Trump is less cryptic on current U.S. troop deployments in Asia. If South Korea doesn’t pay more to support U.S. troops there to deter Kim Jong Un’s increasingly belligerent regime to the north, Trump suggests the U.S. could withdraw its forces. “We have 40,000 troops that are in a precarious position,” he tells TIME. (The number is actually 28,500.) “Which doesn’t make any sense. Why would we defend somebody? And we’re talking about a very wealthy country.”

Transactional isolationism may be the main strain of Trump’s foreign policy, but there are limits. Trump says he would join Israel’s side in a confrontation with Iran. “If they attack Israel, yes, we would be there,” he tells me. He says he has come around to the now widespread belief in Israel that a Palestinian state existing side by side in peace is increasingly unlikely. “There was a time when I thought two-state could work,” he says. “Now I think two-state is going to be very, very tough.”

Yet even his support for Israel is not absolute. He’s criticized Israel’s handling of its war against Hamas, which has killed more than 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza, and has called for the nation to “get it over with.” When I ask whether he would consider withholding U.S. military aid to Israel to push it toward winding down the war, he doesn’t say yes, but he doesn’t rule it out, either. He is sharply critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, once a close ally. “I had a bad experience with Bibi,” Trump says. In his telling, a January 2020 U.S. operation to assassinate a top Iranian general was supposed to be a joint attack until Netanyahu backed out at the last moment. “That was something I never forgot,” he says. He blames Netanyahu for failing to prevent the Oct. 7 attack, when Hamas militants infiltrated southern Israel and killed nearly 1,200 people amid acts of brutality including burning entire families alive and raping women and girls. “It happened on his watch,” Trump says.

On the second day of Trump’s New York trial on April 17, I stand behind the packed counter of the Sanaa Convenience Store on 139th Street and Broadway, waiting for Trump to drop in for a postcourt campaign stop. He chose the bodega for its history. In 2022, one of the store’s clerks fatally stabbed a customer who attacked him. Bragg, the Manhattan DA, charged the clerk with second-degree murder. (The charges were later dropped amid public outrage over video footage that appeared to show the clerk acting in self-defense.) A baseball bat behind the counter alludes to lingering security concerns. When Trump arrives, he asks the store’s co-owner, Maad Ahmed, a Yemeni immigrant, about safety. “You should be allowed to have a gun,” Trump tells Ahmed. “If you had a gun, you’d never get robbed.”

On the campaign trail, Trump uses crime as a cudgel, painting urban America as a savage hell-scape even though violent crime has declined in recent years, with homicides sinking 6% in 2022 and 13% in 2023, according to the FBI. When I point this out, Trump tells me he thinks the data, which is collected by state and local police departments, is rigged. “It’s a lie,” he says. He has pledged to send the National Guard into cities struggling with crime in a second term—possibly without the request of governors—and plans to approve Justice Department grants only to cities that adopt his preferred policing methods like stop-and-frisk.

To critics, Trump’s preoccupation with crime is a racial dog whistle. In polls, large numbers of his supporters have expressed the view that antiwhite racism now represents a greater problem in the U.S. than the systemic racism that has long afflicted Black Americans. When I ask if he agrees, Trump does not dispute this position. “There is a definite antiwhite feeling in the country,” he tells TIME, “and that can’t be allowed either.” In a second term, advisers say, a Trump Administration would rescind Biden’s Executive Orders designed to boost diversity and racial equity.

Trump’s ability to campaign for the White House in the midst of an unprecedented criminal trial is the product of a more professional campaign operation that has avoided the infighting that plagued past versions. “He has a very disciplined team around him,” says Representative Elise Stefanik of New York. “That is an indicator of how disciplined and focused a second term will be.” That control now extends to the party writ large. In 2016, the GOP establishment, having failed to derail Trump’s campaign, surrounded him with staff who sought to temper him. Today the party’s permanent class have either devoted themselves to the gospel of MAGA or given up. Trump has cleaned house at the Republican National Committee, installing handpicked leaders—including his daughter-in-law—who have reportedly imposed loyalty tests on prospective job applicants, asking whether they believe the false assertion that the 2020 election was stolen. (The RNC has denied there is a litmus test.) Trump tells me he would have trouble hiring anyone who admits Biden won: “I wouldn’t feel good about it.”

Policy groups are creating a government-in-waiting full of true believers. The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 has drawn up plans for legislation and Executive Orders as it trains prospective personnel for a second Trump term. The Center for Renewing America, led by Russell Vought, Trump’s former director of the Office of Management and Budget, is dedicated to disempowering the so-called administrative state, the collection of bureaucrats with the power to control everything from drug-safety determinations to the contents of school lunches. The America First Policy Institute is a research haven of pro-Trump right-wing populists. America First Legal, led by Trump’s immigration adviser Stephen Miller, is mounting court battles against the Biden Administration.

The goal of these groups is to put Trump’s vision into action on day one. “The President never had a policy process that was designed to give him what he actually wanted and campaigned on,” says Vought. “[We are] sorting through the legal authorities, the mechanics, and providing the momentum for a future Administration.” That includes a litany of boundary-pushing right-wing policies, including slashing Department of Justice funding and cutting climate and environmental regulations.

Trump’s campaign says he would be the final decision-maker on which policies suggested by these organizations would get implemented. But at the least, these advisers could form the front lines of a planned march against what Trump dubs the Deep State, marrying bureaucratic savvy to their leader’s anti-bureaucratic zeal. One weapon in Trump’s second-term “War on Washington” is a wonky one: restoring the power of impoundment, which allowed Presidents to withhold congressionally appropriated funds. Impoundment was a favorite maneuver of Nixon, who used his authority to freeze funding for subsidized housing and the Environmental Protection Agency. Trump and his allies plan to challenge a 1974 law that prohibits use of the measure, according to campaign policy advisers.

Another inside move is the enforcement of Schedule F, which allows the President to fire nonpolitical government officials and which Trump says he would embrace. “You have some people that are protected that shouldn’t be protected,” he says. A senior U.S. judge offers an example of how consequential such a move could be. Suppose there’s another pandemic, and President Trump wants to push the use of an untested drug, much as he did with hydroxychloroquine during COVID-19. Under Schedule F, if the drug’s medical reviewer at the Food and Drug Administration refuses to sign off on its use, Trump could fire them, and anyone else who doesn’t approve it. The Trump team says the President needs the power to hold bureaucrats accountable to voters. “The mere mention of Schedule F,” says Vought, “ensures that the bureaucracy moves in your direction.”

It can be hard at times to discern Trump’s true intentions. In his interviews with TIME, he often sidestepped questions or answered them in contradictory ways. There’s no telling how his ego and self-destructive behavior might hinder his objectives. And for all his norm-breaking, there are lines he says he won’t cross. When asked if he would comply with all orders upheld by the Supreme Court, Trump says he would.

But his policy preoccupations are clear and consistent. If Trump is able to carry out a fraction of his goals, the impact could prove as transformative as any presidency in more than a century. “He’s in full war mode,” says his former adviser and occasional confidant Stephen Bannon. Trump’s sense of the state of the country is “quite apocalyptic,” Bannon says. “That’s where Trump’s heart is. That’s where his obsession is.”

These obsessions could once again push the nation to the brink of crisis. Trump does not dismiss the possibility of political violence around the election. “If we don’t win, you know, it depends,” he tells TIME. “It always depends on the fairness of the election.” When I ask what he meant when he baselessly claimed on Truth Social that a stolen election “allows for the termination of all rules, regulations and articles, even those found in the Constitution,” Trump responded by denying he had said it. He then complained about the “Biden-inspired” court case he faces in New York and suggested that the “fascists” in America’s government were its greatest threat. “I think the enemy from within, in many cases, is much more dangerous for our country than the outside enemies of China, Russia, and various others,” he tells me.

Toward the end of our conversation at Mar-a-Lago, I ask Trump to explain another troubling comment he made: that he wants to be dictator for a day. It came during a Fox News town hall with Sean Hannity, who gave Trump an opportunity to allay concerns that he would abuse power in office or seek retribution against political opponents. Trump said he would not be a dictator—“except for day one,” he added. “I want to close the border, and I want to drill, drill, drill.”

Trump says that the remark “was said in fun, in jest, sarcastically.” He compares it to an infamous moment from the 2016 campaign, when he encouraged the Russians to hack and leak Hillary Clinton’s emails. In Trump’s mind, the media sensationalized those remarks too. But the Russians weren’t joking: among many other efforts to influence the core exercise of American democracy that year, they hacked the Democratic National Committee’s servers and disseminated its emails through WikiLeaks.

Whether or not he was kidding about bringing a tyrannical end to our 248-year experiment in democracy, I ask him, Don’t you see why many Americans see such talk of dictatorship as contrary to our most cherished principles? Trump says no. Quite the opposite, he insists. “I think a lot of people like it.” —With reporting by Leslie Dickstein, Simmone Shah, and Julia Zorthian

#TIME #Time Magazine #Trump #Project 2025

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hamaylfabrics · 7 months

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deewellsosd · 7 days

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The Evolution of Sneaker Culture: The Shift

Sneaker culture in 1994, was a lot like Michael Jordan himself: untouchable, iconic, and still soaring from that ‘Last Shot’ magic. When Jordan Brand re-released the Air Jordan 4 in black and red, it wasn't just a shoe hitting shelves again — it was the birth of a new era. Suddenly, people weren’t just buying kicks to ball in, they were buying history. This wasn’t about sneakers anymore. It was about sneakers with a story.

Hear me out. 👂🏾👂🏾

I knew that the sneaker world was about to get a lot more crowded but was happy that the 4s ended up at Nike outlet stores.

1994: Jordan Retros Are Born, and the Game Changed.

Jordan Brand drops the retro Air Jordan 4, black and red, and boom — sneakerheads everywhere lose their minds. It’s like Jordan-mania got a sequel. No longer just about playing basketball, this retro release turned sneakers into must-have collectibles, and paved the way for the boom of re-releases we’re swimming in today. But Jordan Brand wasn’t alone in the game. Oh no, we had #K-Swiss out here dropping their signature tennis whites and staying clean in the country club scene, while #Diadora and #Ellesse were holding it down on soccer pitches. Sneaker culture wasn’t just about hoops anymore; it was becoming global.

Early 2000s: Collaborations, Hip Hop, and the Sneakerhead Scene

Fast forward to the early 2000s. While everyone was still buzzing over Jordans, something wild was happening: #adidas was teaming up with everyone from Pharrell to Missy Elliott, #FILA was riding that retro wave, and sneaker culture was going digital. Enter the message boards — places like NikeTalk, Instyleshoes where sneakerheads could gather and post news and photos of kicks and trade rare pairs like digital currency before anyone knew what cryptocurrency even was.

It wasn’t just about what you wore on your feet anymore; it was about where you were buying them, who you were talking to online about them, and how you were hustling to get the next big release. The #New Balance "Dad Shoe" (S/o Steven Smith) renaissance also quietly began, sneaking into wardrobes with its chunky, comfort-first aesthetic. The early 2000s were all about collaborations and the beginning of sneaker culture’s obsession with exclusivity. #Puma was pushing their Clyde sneakers, while #Saucony—yes, the running brand—was quietly building its own cult following with sleek, comfortable designs that were street-ready.

Legacy Brands in the Mix

While Nike and Jordan were grabbing headlines, let’s not forget the underdogs. K-Swiss continued to carve out a niche with those iconic five stripes, while Diadora and Ellesse were quietly getting love from soccer fans and Euro-stylish types. FILA, meanwhile, was riding high on the back of Grant Hill’s signature sneakers, and it would see a full-blown revival in the 2010s, with the Disruptor II becoming the chunky sneaker everyone suddenly couldn’t get enough of.

Remember when people made fun of chunky sneakers?

New Balance? Don’t sleep on them. While everyone was busy drooling over the latest Jordan or Yeezy release, New Balance was already a legend in the DMV and those who knew….knew. Those "dad shoes" became the ironic fashion choice for the cool kids, and suddenly, New Balance wasn’t just for your lawn-mowing dad — they were fire on the ‘gram.

Saucony, meanwhile, wasn’t just for marathon runners anymore; their Shadow and Jazz models crept their way into collections. (Shout out to The Floor Lords for their 2007, Courageous sneakers.)

Hip Hop and Sneaker Domination

Let’s be real: sneaker culture and Hip Hop go together like peanut butter and jelly. As sneaker culture evolved, so did its Hip Hop connection. Enter Kanye, Pharrell, and a host of people making sneakers not just part of their brand, but central to their identity. Kanye’s #Yeezy partnership with adidas wasn’t just a big deal; it was a tectonic shift. Suddenly, sneakers became art, social currency, and an investment all wrapped in one.

And let’s not forget the OG brands keeping things fresh. Puma reimagined their classics with help from collaborations like Rihanna’s Fenty line, making old-school silhouettes new again. Meanwhile, FILA staged a comeback that felt like a ‘90s nostalgia tour, with chunky sneakers like the Disruptor II becoming must-haves.

And while these brands rode the waves of Hip Hop and sneaker culture are no longer just a U.S. phenomenon. It’s global.

2010s to Now: Sustainability, Resale, and Nostalgia on Steroids

By the 2010s, sneaker culture hit hyperdrive. Online reselling became a thing, and StockX made flipping sneakers as common as flipping burgers. Suddenly, people were buying kicks not just to wear, but as an investment. Remember those New Balances your dad swore by? Well, suddenly those "dad shoes" became the ironic fashion statement everyone couldn’t get enough of.

And then came the sustainability wave. #adidas started using ocean plastic, #Nike launched the Move to Zero campaign, and Puma got serious about eco-friendly kicks. In today’s sneaker world, it’s not just about looking good, it’s about doing good, too. We’re not just talking about aesthetics anymore; we’re talking about carbon footprints.

What’s Next: Virtual Sneakers and the Metaverse

So, where’s sneaker culture going? We’ve got NFTs, virtual sneakers, and even digital sneakers for your Metaverse avatar. Yes, that’s a thing now. Brands like adidas are already dropping virtual kicks, and as much as we love the feel of fresh leather underfoot, the next frontier of sneaker culture might just be something we can’t even lace up.

At this point, sneaker culture is about a whole lot more than shoes. It’s about art, fashion, self-expression, sustainability, and even digital futures. And if there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that sneaker culture will continue to evolve.

Change is inevitable.

#kickstory #obsessivesneakerdisorder #osdlive #sneakers #solecialstudies #fashion #education #hip hop #sneaker culture

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magazinepk · 2 years

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aclandscaping13 · 3 months

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imagine-that-one-thing · 5 months

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Chapter 3 "The Escape from Silence."

Word count: 5,493

Harry x Anastasia || Fanfic series

Master Link || Chat with me

The morning of Royal Ascot has been quite chaotic, with everyone scrambling to change dresses and rotate carriages. Harry, in particular, has been struggling as the event always tests his ability to handle change. He dislikes the Royal Ascot for a good reason - every public outing requires him to be familiar with revised plans, every entry, exit, and even underground area. He must know every detail like the back of his hand and remain on high alert throughout the event. Even a slight change to one plan can send security into a frenzy of anxiety.

The event is planned down to every minute detail, including when and where the carriages arrive and how long they spend greeting people. With over 300,000 people visiting Berkshire during Royal Ascot week, it is difficult for Harry to keep track of everything. However, he manages to make things work every year, along with the rest of the security team.

I'm not much of a fan of the horse races in the aspect of having to be a Royal and treat this as an event, There are eyes always on me and I still have to act in a certain manner. I can thank Queen Anne for turning horse races into a royal activity. Ascot Racecourse was founded in 1711 by and ever since has been a major event that royals attend.

The Royal enclosure, however, is quite lovely. The Royal Enclosure was built in 1822 when King George IV commissioned a two-storey stand to be built with the surrounding lawn. This was designated an exclusive area with access strictly by invitation of the King. To this day, membership to the Royal Enclosure continues to be by invitation only. Every individual who has a membership and will be in the Enclosure is monitored and a background check is thoroughly run.

Harry knows of every person who will be in the enclosure and he has to watch their behaviour. He hates it just as much as he hates being out in the public areas, but the good thing is that being invited to the Royal Enclosure is hard. To get in without a direct invitation, one must sign up, which is easy, but the hard part is providing letters of recommendation from two existing Royal Enclosure members who have themselves been members in good standing for a minimum of four years— this is where Harry's job gets a little easier, for the most part, new entries don't happen often. The only thing Harry enjoys about this event has nothing to do with the horses, he isn't formally allowed to bet since he is on duty, but he likes to bet on the colour of Her Majesty's hat. It is a tradition that people bet on what colour they believe my mother will wear, and it is such a big deal that not even I know what colour my mother's hat is until I see her in the morning and sometimes she will change hats before arriving at the venue.

The enclosure is bustling, with royals and guests floating around, drinking champagne and acting high on life without a care in the world. I stand towards the back, a glass of champagne in my hand, a rented prince to my left and my love to the right. I take a sip of the bubbly champagne, pretending to enjoy its company— I now see why my mother chooses martinis. "Anastasia, don't you think you should mingle and entertain these guests?" Syrus asks as he smiles towards my guests.

"Did you want me to do party tricks or take my clothes off? You should elaborate," I respond.

Syrus cocks his head to the side, "Why are you so defiant?"

"Because I don't want to be Queen with you, my father, and parliament condemning me. I'm not a puppy you can put on a leash," I assert, trying to hold my ground.

"That's debatable," Syrus replies, his voice low and menacing as he steps closer, eliminating the small gap between us. His presence feels oppressive, the air around him charged with a palpable threat. "Do not make a mockery of this family," he warns, his eyes dark and intense, hinting at the danger that lurks beneath his composed exterior. "You might be quieter on a leash."

"Or what? What are you going to do?"

Syrus's eyes narrow dangerously, his gaze locking onto mine with an intensity that feels almost physical. "Or I will dismantle everything you hold dear, piece by piece," he murmurs, his voice cold and steady, his eyes flickering between myself and Harry. "You will find yourself isolated, powerless, and forgotten. Remember, I live to play dangerous games." His threat hangs in the air, a dark promise that sends chills down my spine. His tone leaves no room for argument, painting him as a man who is not just dangerous, but also not to be tested.

A warm arm gently encircles my waist, and I feel a protective presence as Harry steps in, creating a barrier between Syrus and me. My heart pounds against my chest. "It's okay, go," Harry murmurs, nudging me to step back. He immediately takes my place, now standing toe-to-toe with Syrus, "I believe the King is motioning for you," Harry flicks his head, defusing the scene, not allowing Syrus to give any sort of reaction before I step away, deciding to escape the moment and find solace elsewhere.

***

I feel a droplet of rain grace my skin, I look up and notice the ominous clouds forming over us, making their way across the sky in a swift manner. I open my umbrella and I step off the gravel path. I walk along the grass, attempting to reach the very edge of the fence where some of the horses are just now starting to make their way to the stables.

I carry the umbrella over my head, the rain coming down heavily, patting the umbrella brutally but creating a moderately calming tone. This is certain to create an early departure for me or a rain delay in the Royal enclosure.

I watch as a figure walks closer to me, holding his Umbrella as a pair of blue eyes meet with mine. Niall's eyes twinkle mischievously as he observes the rain falling around us. "Most women are sipping champagne and here you are, in the rain," he remarks with a playful smile.

I can't help but chuckle at his comment. "I'm not much of a champagne girl," I reply, shaking my head.

Niall's smile widens as he leans closer. "I picked you to be more of a rum girl," he says, his voice filled with intrigue.

I nod, a sly grin forming on my lips. "Correct," I affirm, enjoying the playful banter between us.

I welcome a hand press over mine, "Allow me," Niall instructs, taking the umbrella from my hand. "A princess doesn't hold her own Umbrella." Niall holds the umbrella over me while he stands, holding both umbrellas to shield me from the intense rain.

Niall is the epitome of royalty, with his flowing blond locks and mesmerizing blue eyes. His calm and composed nature added an air of elegance to his presence, making him the perfect embodiment of a prince. Whether he was engaging in conversation or simply observing the world around him, Niall's quiet and poised demeanour never fails to captivate those around him.

Niall's family's historical connection to a once-reigning Irish monarchy is what started his title. Through generations of noble bloodlines and ancestral ties, Niall carries the title of prince as a symbol of his regal lineage. His royal heritage adds an intriguing layer to his character.

Niall's mother is from Ireland and her family was once in the reigning monarchy, and his father is a prince in the Netherlands.

"Charming," I smile.

"Always," he nods, "You know, you're supposed to be inside."

"Mhm," I hum, "I'm supposed to be in many places but I escaped the deadly silence." ... "Pulled in directions that have no end. There is no light at the end of this tunnel, may as well jump off the train before it gets too dark."

"Oh, such a tortured poet," Niall chuckles, "You should dabble into writing."

I roll my eyes at the comment. There is a part of me that wonders if there is a life for me outside of royalty and if there was a hypothetical life, what would I do with it? The possibilities are endless. Perhaps being a writer and weaving intricate tapestries of prose and poetry would be a wave of emotion I would enjoy. To lose myself in the rhythm of my own words to captivate an audience holds contrast and thrill. However, my life doesn't need more thrill, I think there is enough drama in this life— more than one could possibly handle all at once.

"Do you not have something better to do?" I curiously ask, "Drinking? Smoking a Cigar? Doing all things a Prince isn't supposed to do at events?" I continue with a slight chuckle. He may be the perfect embodiment of a prince in the way he talks, treats others, etcetera. However, his after-hours activities are far from after-hours. He flies under the radar and nobody tends to care if the Prince is drunk by noon at an event, of course, he holds himself well when intoxicated. Nobody cares to give him press interviews, nobody cares what he wears and what he does— it must be a wonderful quality to possess in this life— One of which I desire to have the luxury of ever so deeply.

I turn back around and continue walking, the rain coming down heavily on us while we make our way closer to where the horses are stationed and unwinding before they are transported to their stables.

"Your security guard took my cigars," Niall mutters, "Your Father is running around like a chook with his head cut off because he can't find you and your security guard is amused by it. Your Uncle is being your Uncle, a menace. So, here I am, walking in the rain to escape the chaos your disappearance has caused."

"Mmm, I am sure it quite a mystery where I am," I roll my eyes, "Perhaps if a monarchy wasn't shoved down my throat and my father's drastic need to present to me a Prince, I may not be walking down here." ... "It is starting to sound like Syrus wants the crown more and more each day."

"Mhm," Niall hums in a quiet agreement. "A Prince who seems to have left you," Niall points out. We all know this was a PR stunt, organised by my Father who is more interested in complying with the monarchy than stepping back and taking a look at the bigger picture. This monarchy isn't good for anything besides destroying those involved within it. Whether he wants to admit it or not, PR will not stitch his quilt back together, it will be nothing but broken patches and stripped thread.

I glance around and nod my head, disappointed my Prince seems to have disappeared and left me in the downpour to combat the media and the crowds on my own. He was here to serve a purpose, not only to show his presence to everyone who wasn't at the garden party but to also draw attention to a new budding romance that could turn into more. My father needs the media to spark its attention towards us— the monarch is ready to change— my father wants to hand over the reins and pass down the crown but he can't do so unless the public is on his side and approves of not only me as the queen but my partner.

"That Prince doesn't want this any more than you, Anna," Niall points out, "He is going to rebuttal. He knows this isn't what you want. He sent me to find you."

I shrug my shoulders, "He could grow a set and just turn down the offer of being the handbag on my arm." ... "Instead, I am walking alone."

"And somehow she acts like I am not here holding an umbrella for her," Niall chuckles. "I am sorry I am not a handbag but I believe that Prince needed the money."

"If you're smart, you will walk away, and very quickly," I gesture my head towards the group of piranhas that are inching closer with their cameras and questions. Niall doesn't deserve to be thrown into this catastrophe.

Niall glances towards the crowd and turns to face me, a small glimpse of empathy dashing through his bright eyes, "Never been the brightest. Maybe the attention will be fun." Niall half smiles at me. Contrary to his words, he is a very intelligent man.

"Princess, Princess!!! Anastasia!" My name is thrown around and flashes begin to blind me, a sudden burst of reporters grappling for the best photo and media headline swarming me. I tilt my head down and allow my hat to cover my face, the sound of the rain tapping the umbrella getting heavier with each moment. They're relentless today, usually, they swarm and then they leave— not today— today they want every angle, every moment, and every drop of blood they can draw out of me. Part of me believes this is just the start of it, they have tasted blood and they want more, they know there are stories, they know I am up next on the throne, and they know it is coming soon. Fuck me.

"Please, make it stop," I tug Niall's arm. I'm not allowed to raise my voice towards the media or announce my discomfort. I didn't mean to suddenly fall to the demise of the media and have a weakened moment. I never intended the words to leave my lips and put the strain on him to make it stop.

He hands me the umbrella and stands in front of me, "We are trying to get her out of the rain, so please be kind and move," Niall speaks loud enough to be heard but keeps his voice contained and charmed. He lets out a heavy sigh and clears his throat, "Are you not capable of leaving someone the fuck alone?" Niall questions, "Take a step back!" He orders, trying to take control of the situation.

"Don't you have security for this?" I question. It's a logical question, all royals at this event have their own security.

"Don't you?" Niall chuckles, "I fly under the radar, nobody cares about me... Except for when I am around you." Niall points out the obvious, "You're like a moth to a flame. Nobody can stay away from you."

I roll my eyes and look back down, avoiding the cameras. "I didn't realise I was hosting a press conference on the sidewalk today," Niall comments, "Don't worry, folks, I will sign autographs as soon as I finish my afternoon stroll and remember my name." Niall begins to speak to the media, catching me off guard. He's unphased by the repercussions of being a smartass to the media.

I guess if you can't beat them, join them.

"Royals aren't allowed to sign autographs," one woman shouts out.

"No shit," Niall responds, "Please, leave us alone."

"Whoever doesn't take two steps back from the prince and Princess will be legally charged by the time I count to three!" Harry's voice takes me by surprise as I see him taking control of the situation, the media, surprisingly listening. "Three!" Harry uses his hands to split the crowd like the Red Sea. "Scurry along, you all know I have the time to charge you all, I have done it before," Harry smiles, gesturing with his hands for the swarm of people to leave. "Especially you," Harry winks towards one reporter, tapping them on the shoulder, "Go," his voice is deep and resonates like bottles of thunder. It's almost enough to scare me.

"Prince," Harry nods his head towards Niall, returning with a smile.

Niall chuckles and playfully shoves Harry's shoulder, "Ass hole," Niall mutters, the two of them catching me off guard. They're acting like friends.

"You two know each other?" I softly question while the rest of our security team takes control of the media.

Harry nods his head, "We uh, so fun fact," Harry begins, "We play poker and smoke cigars once a month with a few other mates." ... "Niall, you are not meant to be here."

"We've also gotten drunk quite a few times," Niall smiles. "Neither is Anna."

"He's far from your typical Prince," Harry informs me, "Now, I need to get you home." Harry takes his phone out and makes the calls he needs to ensure everything is for me to leave promptly and without issues, slowly walking us past the huddles of paparazzi and eager photographers who stayed at a legal distance.

Harry escorts me to a blacked-out car with his head of security waiting by the car with an umbrella. Whenever the head of security is waiting for me, it means Harry is handing me off. There is a good chance I am in some sort of trouble. A princess should never wander off on her own. Boring.

"Matthew will take you to the Palace," Harry informs me as I step under the head of security's umbrella, allowing Harry to finally hold the umbrella over his head despite the fact he is already soaked, his hair is damp and droplets are falling from his soft curls, his white shirt has become slightly see-through I can see the slight outline of his abs as the shirt clings to his body.

"Why?"

"He needs to escort Niall, Plus, you said you preferred my service better, I am not as stiff as Harry," Matthew lightens the mood with a small joke, finally forcing a small chuckle to escape my lips.

"Finally, she smiles," Harry grins, "I will come past your quarters when I get done."

"Get in the car. Let's get you home," Harry opens the door, returning to bodyguard mode and gesturing for me to get in the car.

I get into the car with ease and I rest back against the leather seats.

I view Harry and Matthew talk outside and I watch them intently for a moment, curious as to what they are discussing. I can only assume most of their conversation right now will revolve around me.

As Matthew gets in the driver's seat of the car, I watch Harry walk off into the distance before the car begins to move. I stare out the window, watching the droplets of rain slide down.

I lean my head against the window and close my eyes for a moment but I am quickly distracted by the sound of Matthew's voice. "He loves you, you know?"

"Harry?" I question, "Did he put you up to this conversation that is about to take place?"

Questioning his love has never been an issue, questioning mine is, but not in the conventional way. He doesn't deserve to be dragged into this life with me, he deserves a simple life without hassle. I love him, but I

Matthew chuckles as he looks in his rearview mirror at me, "Am I talking to the Princess or?"

"This is off the record. I am off royal duty." I respond, assuring Matthew that whatever is said in the car will stay in the car.

For the most part, conversations between Harry and Matthew are generally off the record. Sometimes they are the only times I get to feel a sense of normality. Everyone else treats me like a princess and always wants to discuss politics, royal duties etc.

"He'd do anything for you, all you have to do is say the word."

Burn it down and end it all. Physically the monarchy burning from the outside, turning to soot will not do me any justice, but destroying it from the inside out— now that, that might be worth my sanity.

"I know," I nod, "Oh, how I know," I sigh, closing my eyes as I lean against the window, taking the quietness in.

As I watch the rain cascade down the window, the streets of London blur into a watery canvas. The sound of tires splashing through puddles creates a symphony of melancholy. Lost in my thoughts, I find solace in the rain's gentle rhythm, its ability to wash away the chaos of the world. But amidst the calm, a storm brews within me. How can I navigate the treacherous waters of royalty? The weight of expectations weighs heavily on my shoulders, threatening to drown me in uncertainty. But I refuse to let it consume me. I will find my way, even if it means forging a path no one else has taken. In this moment, as the rain washes away the city's grime, I am reminded that I too can cleanse my soul and discover my way.

As I sit in the car looking out the window at the stone steps of the palace, dark clouds loom overhead, casting a sombre tone to the scene. The heavy rain pours down relentlessly, adding an air of mystery and drama to the surroundings. The palace, with its majestic architecture, stands tall and resilient against the elements. The rainwater cascades down the walls, tracing intricate patterns along the stone facade. The sound of raindrops hitting the ground echoes through the courtyard, creating a symphony of nature's melancholy. Despite the gloomy atmosphere, there is an undeniable beauty in the way the rain intensifies the colours of the palace, making it seem even more enchanting.

I force the car door open and I make my way up the wet steps of the palace, the rain pours down relentlessly, drenching me to the bone. Hurrying, I try to shield myself from the downpour, but it's no use. Each step feels heavier than the last, and the water seeps into every crevice of my clothing. Despite the discomfort, I push forward, my determination driving me to seek refuge within the grand entrance. The echoing sound of my footsteps against the marble floor reminds me of the weight of my worries. I brush off the raindrops clinging to my coat, their shimmering presence a stark contrast to the gloomy weather.

As I make my way into the palace, the anticipation of facing my father's wrath gnaws at me. I despise the thought of disappointing him by not fulfilling my duties. The weight of his expectations feels suffocating, like an unrelenting storm brewing inside me. I'll gather my courage, face him head-on, and explain my choices. I am determined to assert my independence and find a way to navigate my path, even in the face of his disapproval.

The moment I enter the palace foyer, my world is turned upside down and my Father pounces on me like a lion on its weak prey.

My father is a great man, for the most part, but when he is angry, he is furious. He can't always control his temper and that is something the public does not know. The public only sees the lower side of his temper, they see the relatively calm and collected King. I, on the other hand, get to witness the King at his full capacity of anger and it is far from fun. My father can be relentless, he is like a dog with a bone, which is why he is so good at making foreign deals and running a monarchy, he does not take no for an answer, nor does he take shit from people. Of course, he handles himself in a royal matter but with a hint of dominance.

My father wastes no time by laying into me, "How many stunts do you anticipate to pull off?" My father questions, his eyes narrowed to crinkled slits, his crimson with fury as he stares me down.

My lips screw into irritation and I take a moment to come to terms with the fact that the King is yelling at me in front of the staff just as I have managed to walk into the palace. "What?"

"Anastasia, I expected more from you."

"Excuse me?" I challenge with a raised brow.

"I raised you better."

My brows bump together in a scowl, my body stiffening at the words my father speaks. He didn't raise me better, he raised me to be a pawn in the Game of Thrones.

"Have you scooped that low? Is the monarch's rules so important to Syrus that you are willing to act like this— like him?" ... "If this is what you call raising, we have different definitions of raising."

The monarchy will always come first in his eyes— it will always twist and turn, heaping my life into a whirlwind of turmoil and vulnerability. I can't escape the grasp of the government and the power, I can't escape the life he has forced me into— I can't escape from myself.

"You're the one who has forced me to this extent. You won't cooperate"

I shake my head, no longer wanting to continue the nightly conversation. "Excuse me, I am going to bed before this turns into more of an argument." I step around my father and begin to make my way to the staircase.

"Stop right there!" Syrus sneers towards me storming into the foyer.

I turn around, facing my Uncle as Harry steps into the foyer, "Oh, boy," he mutters under his breath. "I was just locking the door," Harry half smiles, walking across the foyer to lock the doors. His presence doesn't stop my father from the conversation he is determined to continue.

"You, a patchwork heir of convenience, dare to tread where only true blood should rule? You're nothing but a living insult to the crown." His voice is loud and full of anger.

His words hit me like a shockwave, leaving me stunned and confused. My father, who has never raised his voice at me before, is now allowing his brother to shout with such intensity. It makes me want to shrink away, feeling powerless against his anger. But there is another part of me that refuses to back down, a fire within me that urges me to stand up for myself, even in the face of adversity. "You will not make things any worse for this monarchy. It isn't hard to fucking comply and be a quiet fucking Queen."

I want to fight, but I can't. I'm statue-like as I blink. Did he just reference me as becoming a quiet Queen? Is he wanting me to become submissive with all duties and allow this monarchy to ruin all of us?

I think it is time it burns to the ground— I don't mean metaphorically— I mean literally. Burn it, piece by piece, pillar by pillar. Let the smoke fill the air and the prying eyes of the people watch on. I would rather my hands be covered in soot than be left silenced like my mother.

"I'd rather burn it than be silenced," I retort, my voice defiant as I watch my uncle's face contort with rage. His eye twitches uncontrollably, his jaw clenched so tightly I can almost hear his teeth grind. A vein throbs dangerously on his forehead, a testament to the storm brewing within him. I've ignited a fire I never knew he harboured.

"Don't you dare even think about destroying it," he seethes, his voice a terrifying crescendo of fury. He steps closer to me, allowing barely any space to creep between us as a breath hitches in my throat. "We have sacrificed too damn much, sweated blood and tears — and you think you can just tear it all apart with your selfish whims? Not while I'm breathing!" His words crack through the air like a whip, his rage is noticeable, filling the room with an electric charge that sends shivers down my spine. This isn't just anger; it's something primal, a deep, seething wrath that I've unwittingly unleashed. Oops. "Mark my words, your reign will be a brief and tragic footnote in the history of our great kingdom. I will see to that."

"That's enough," Harry steps in, placing himself between my Uncle and me, forcing my Father to take a step forward. I watch as he gestures towards the staff, reminding them to focus on their duties. "And you all," Harry nods politely towards the gathered staff, "Please continue with your work." His head turns towards my Uncle who is still seething. "Don't—" He forwarns as my Father steps forward and goes to speak. A small smirk dances across my face as I eye the back of his white shirt, the outline of his flexed muscles showing subtly.

Who would have thought anyone would stand in front of the King and his brother and forewarn him?

"You will not keep yelling at her."

"And who are you?" Syrus snips, his eyes dark with fury.

"The man who will slit your throat without remorse, don't raise your voice and treat her like a rag doll," Harry warns, staring back at Syrus with heavy eyes. Syrus met his match.

Then, Harry's attention turns to me as he turns to face me. "Anna, let's try to calm down," he says, shaking his head disapprovingly. I can't help but feel a sense of admiration for how he takes control of the situation. I'm mildly turned on by this side of him.

I go to speak but Harry interrupts, "Don't be mouthy with me."

I raise a brow with a raised smirk, eager to push his buttons and do the opposite of what he's requesting, but I recompose myself when I notice the look in his eyes. He's not angry, he's not trying to be intimidating, he's genuinely tired and trying to dissolve the distance between myself and my father. He isn't the villain here.

I nod my head towards Harry, and my father takes a deep breath, "Okay," he inhales in an attempt to keep himself composed, "Syrus, I can handle this, you can leave," he dismisses his brother, seeming to be a coward in my eyes for allowing his brother to raise his voice at me. My Father waits for Syus to walk out and the door slams behind him before he speaks, "Anastasia, I need you to pick a man, and stick with it. I don't care if it's just for media propaganda, pick," my father instructs, rubbing the corners of his eyes, "I'm not telling you to sleep with them, for Christ sake." His voice is finally low.

"You sure?" I question, crossing my arms over my chest. "Harry, want to weigh in?" I smile.

"Leave me out of this," Harry shakes his head disapprovingly. "I'm here to make sure you don't kill each other."

My father glares at me, "Anna, for the sake of my fucking sanity, choose." ... "You're making it difficult to remain calm. I need you to do this."

He is determined to have the throne accompanied by a man as though I am a weak girl who can't do anything without a man by her side.

"I don't understand why you are so determined to fulfil the requirements of me having a Prince. But fine," I heavily sigh, "I choose Niall."

"Niall," My father hums, "Niall?" He's confused.

"Yes, blond and blue-eyed."

"The one at the bottom of the chain?" my father huffs, "The one who hosts poker nights with Harry over there?" My father flicks his head towards Harry. "Ireland doesn't have a monarchy. They have a parliamentary democracy with a president as the head of state. He's not exactly a prince, I don't think it will be allowed."

I shake my head. "His father is a prince of the Netherlands so he has a title there as well," I remind my father. "Hey, does it matter as long as it's for publicity?" I question. "An alliance of convenience, just what you requested."

"I don't think that's a good idea," Harry comments, "It'll intrude on my poker nights," Harry continues, causing the king to roll his eyes and somewhat chuckle.

"The two of you aren't slick," my father gestures between Harry and me. "I know what's going on."

Harry lifts his shoulders into a careless shrug, "You know I'm about to go smoke a cigar on the balcony and drink whiskey?" Harry questions.

"I am not giving you a title."

Harry chuckles, "Believe me, I do not want one. Now, I am going to go to the balcony."

The king nods with a defeated sigh, "May I join you?" My father's voice becomes soft, finally.

"Depends, as an asshole King or as a normal person, Alaric?" Harry boldly asks.

My father looks at me, "We can finish this tomorrow. Harry, do you have the cigars?" My father questions Harry, the sudden change in everyone's tone and conversation taking me by surprise.

The two of them smoking cigars together is unsettling.

Harry smirks and nods his head, leading them both away towards the steps to the hidden balcony.

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