#anthems of rebellion

[lightineventide]

"Am I to burn?"

With these masterpieces in my CD player, surely! 🤪

[x--daughters-of-darkness--x]

20 iconic metal albums that turn 20 in 2023 (by Metal Hammer)

Iron Maiden, Metallica, Evanescence – these classic albums all celebrate their 20th birthday this year

[randgugotur-6]

𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟑 #𝐀𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐛𝐮𝐦 “𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧” #𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐄𝐲𝐞𝐬𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐍𝐨𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 #𝐄𝐱𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐓𝐨𝐄𝐱𝐢𝐭 #𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐎𝐟𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐬 #𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥

𝐃𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰...

𝐀𝐭 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐛𝐮𝐦 𝐠𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭-𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.

[landlordevil]

I like that I picked out Goth to read (the non fiction not the fiction one tho I have to read that at some point too) as something quick to read and it's so... it's fine

[crypticpatterns]

the ballad of songbirds and snakes was really good and i am very curious how on earth they're going to adapt it without snow's internal monologue. without the contrast of snow's outwardly kind actions and his internal selfishness i don't know how they can communicate who he really is as a person and make it clear his actions at the end aren't part of some corruption arc but just his true colors revealed and that he was a fascist egotist all along.

[straykats]

xdinary heroes comeback AHhabHXAjdbj

[redroomreflections]

Hotel California | Track 1: Smoke and Mirrors

Natasha Romanoff x Fem!Reader

Summary: Natasha Romanoff, frontwoman of the punk rock band Velvet Rebellion, falls hard for a woman she believes is too good for her. Their intense relationship unfolds in the chaotic world of rock 'n' roll, where they struggle to balance fame, personal demons, and their undeniable passion for each other.

W/c: 7k

Chapter 1/12

Masterlist | General Masterlist

Note: I was going to wait to post this since I have fifty-leven WIPs but to make up for me not being able to write for a while and also finishing two stories in the coming weeks - here we are. I'm nervous about posting this one for some reason. Hope y'all like it.

Themes: love, fame, sex, drugs

Track 1 - Smoke and Mirrors (each chapter is a track)

In the world of music, there's no denying that Velvet Rebellion's sound is electric, their melodies are undeniably addictive. But offstage, the drama and chaos surrounding this band have been the subject of endless tabloid fodder. It's a classic case of the music being sweet, but the rest of the package is a tad sour. Will their rock 'n' roll lifestyle ultimately overshadow their undeniable talent? That remains the question on everyone's lips.

The TV channel flicking produced a rapid succession of blips and static.

"You know, when it comes to Velvet Rebellion, it's clear that Natasha Romanoff is the best thing about the band. Her vocals are just on another level!"

"Oh, absolutely! Natasha's stage presence is incredible, and her voice, that raw emotion she pours into every note, it's what sets them apart. But let's not forget the rest of the band; they bring their own magic to the mix!"

Another press of the button. Another channel emitting the same rhetoric. 

"So, what are your thoughts on Velvet Rebellion, the band that seems to be taking the music scene by storm?"

"Look, I won't deny that they've had their moments. Natasha's got a powerful voice, and they've had some catchy tunes. But let's not forget, there's more to rock 'n' roll than just one person. We bring our own unique sound to the table, and we're here to show that rock isn't a one-trick pony."

Suddenly, the screen goes black. The television has been turned off. The room is silent. 

“Whatever,” The mysterious person tsks. There are better things to do. 

In the dimly lit room, the first flicker of a cigarette lighter illuminated a shadowy figure, and a guitar's haunting melody echoed through the air. It was a simple beginning, a humble birth of sound that would eventually become the anthem of a generation.

Images flashed in rapid succession—a chaotic whirlwind of memories and moments that had defined their journey from obscurity to stardom. The flashing lights of a small, dimly lit club, the very place where they had played their first gig, gave way to a sea of screaming fans, arms raised in fervent adoration.

“Bucky! Bucky!”

“Steve, we love you!”

Talk show interviews brought them into living rooms across the nation, their faces beamed into millions of homes as they shared their stories and their music with the world. The camera panned to Natasha, her fierce gaze unyielding as she answered questions with poise and grace.

And then, there were the guitars. Guitars being smashed in a blaze of glory on stage, a ritual that had become their trademark. The destructive catharsis of the act symbolized the release of their raw energy and passion into the world.

Groupies and fans clamored for their attention, their devotion evident in the longing looks and outstretched hands. Each face in the crowd told a story of how Velvet Rebellion's music had touched their lives.

Late-night studio sessions followed, with the band working tirelessly into the early hours, crafting the songs and lyrics that had earned them their place in music history. In the dimly lit room, the flicker of a cigarette lighter once again marked the beginning of a new song.

Magazine covers splashed with their images adorned newsstands across the country. Excerpts from clippings of their first studio album, "Velvet Love," told a tale of raw, unbridled emotion set to music—a story that had resonated with countless souls.

The montage painted a vivid picture of a band that had journeyed through the highs and lows of fame, never losing sight of the music that had brought them together. Velvet Rebellion had carved its path through the music industry, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those who had listened and loved.

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

Sunlight filters through the curtains of Natasha and Wanda's cozy Los Angeles apartment. Disheveled yet determined, Natasha sits on the edge of her bed, cradling her guitar. She strums the strings absentmindedly, searching for that inspiration that once fueled Velvet Rebellion. Her fingers danced over the strings of her trusty guitar, each note a whisper in the quiet solitude of the bedroom.

Natasha's hair framed her face, and frustration lined her expression as she strummed the chords once again. The next album's melodies were meant to be born here. Yet, inspiration remained at arm’s length, teasing her like a fading dream.

"Come on Natalia," she whispered gruffly, remembering the name she had left behind long ago.

With a sigh, she shifted her gaze to the muted TV on the dresser. A NEWS REPORTER's face appeared on the screen, accompanied by headlines that could never escape the relentless clutches of the media. She searched for the remote to turn up the volume as the face of one of her bandmates, Tony Stark’s pictures appeared. 

NEWS REPORTER

(on TV)

“In a surprising turn of events, Velvet Rebellion's Tony Stark was arrested last night for public indecency.”

Natasha's eye-roll was instinctive. Tony always had a way of making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

NEWS REPORTER

(on TV)

“...fans and critics alike have noted the band's gradual decline, and it seems the once-revered punk rock indie sensation is now on the verge of falling apart.”

The reporter's words cut through Natasha's indifference, a scalding reminder of the shadows that had been gathering around them. She couldn't deny it; the band had been stagnant for too long.

Fury sparked in her eyes, and she clenched the neck of her guitar, momentarily abandoning the song. The Velvet Rebellion of yesteryears, the band that had ignited stages and won hearts, couldn't be reduced to this—a spectacle of controversies and dwindling star power.

Returning her attention to her guitar Natasha sighed. The room's stillness hung heavy as she gently laid the guitar down on the floor. It felt like a futile effort, the muse remaining frustratingly out of reach, leaving her with an empty canvas and an aching desire to create.

Her gaze dropped to the small, black notebook, its pages filled with aborted attempts to capture the essence of their experiences and emotions in song. But today, those pages mocked her, an unforgiving reminder of the creative void that had taken its home within her.

Just as her frustration reached its peak, the bedroom door swung open with a soft creak, and in walked Wanda, a bowl of popcorn cradled in her hand. She plopped down on the bed beside Natasha, her eyes rolling in a knowing, teasing manner.

“How’s writing going?” Wanda asked, grabbing a handful of popcorn to plop into her mouth. 

Natasha let out a weary sigh, her notebook momentarily forgotten as she shared her woes with her best friend.

“You have no idea. It's like I've hit a wall, and I can't seem to find my way around it.” Natasha said. “How are we supposed to come up with another album with no songs? It’s been two years. We’re going to be known as one-hit wonders.”

“First off that’s a bit dramatic,” Wanda attempted to calm her down. “We made the hot rock and alternative songs billboard charts for our debut. I think the momentum is still there.”

Wanda cast a glance at the muted TV screen, where a news reporter was still busy dissecting Tony's latest escapade. She couldn't help but roll her eyes, mirroring Natasha's exasperation.

“And of course, our dear Tony adds another branch to the publicity tree. It's almost impressive how consistently he manages to get into trouble.” Wanda shook her head. 

After placing her bowl of popcorn on the dresser, Wanda decided to abandon her sitting position and instead flopped onto her belly, propped up on her elbows. She grabbed Natasha's small notebook, a curious glint in her eyes as she skimmed through the handwritten lyrics and scattered notes.

“You know, Nat, I think I see where you're stuck.” Wanda hummed to herself for a moment. 

Turning her attention to Wanda, Natasha felt her frustration momentarily ebb away, replaced by curiosity.

“Oh?” Natasha eyed her. “Please, share your wisdom.”

Wanda's eyes sparkled with an unexpected idea, and she pointed to a particular verse in the notebook. Her voice took on a sultry, poetic quality as she suggested a new lyric.

“How about this: "In the shadows of desire, we ignite the night."

Natasha's eyes widened in surprise as the words resonated deep within her. She quickly reached for her instrument and strummed the guitar, incorporating the new lyric into the melody, and in that instant, it all fell into place. A smile grew on her face, and she turned to Wanda.

“Wanda, that's brilliant! Thank you!” Natasha leaned forward to kiss her cheek. “I know why I keep you around.”

Wanda beamed in response. 

"Speaking of," she began, her voice casual yet laced with an underlying purpose, "we've got a gig this weekend. It's a birthday party for Harley Jameson, you know, the producer's daughter."

Natasha's response was swift and uncompromising, her will clear in her refusal. Her head shook slightly as she firmly voiced her decision, her thoughts already drifting toward the disturbing pattern of her bandmates taking liberties with decisions without consulting her, the lead.

"Absolutely not, Wanda," Natasha declared, her tone leaving no room for negotiation. “Aren’t we better than performing for snot-nosed brats?

Wanda, ever patient and understanding, propped herself up on her elbows. 

“Well, when that snot nose brat is paying us fifty thousand dollars plus a retainer,” Wanda shrugs. “And all the booze and food we want.” Her words were measured, spoken with the calm that came from knowing this conversation was inevitable." Nat, remember," she began, "you're the lead, not the boss. We haven’t been taking gigs because you've been declining. You know we need to keep the momentum going."

Natasha's jaw clenched in frustration. She leaned back, her gaze shifting to the ceiling as she contemplated her response.

"There's a reason, Wanda," Natasha explained, her voice tinged with concern. "Our brand has taken a beating lately with all the scandals we've had over the years. It’s not a good look being so new. I want us to lay low for a while, let the storm pass."

Wanda sighed, her eyes reflecting her understanding of Natasha's concerns. But she also recognized the band's need to keep going ahead despite the challenges.

"Nat," Wanda said, her voice gentle and reassuring, "I get it, I really do. But we'll be fine. Harley's party should be a breeze, and I promise we'll stay out of trouble. We'll stick to the music, no antics."

Natasha's hesitation lingered. Ultimately, the trust she had in Wanda, her lifelong friend and partner-in-crime, began to outweigh her reservations. She finally nodded, a reluctant but willing acceptance of the gig.

"Alright, alright," Natasha conceded. “We'll do it. But just this one, and we'll play it safe."

Wanda's eyes sparkled with a victorious smile, recognizing that she had won this battle for now. With that agreement, they returned to their songwriting. 

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

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the manicured lawn of Harley Jameson's grand estate, Velvet Rebellion gathered on the makeshift stage. Around them, staff and party planners began to decorate the backyard. Their instruments glistened under the setting and stage lights. 

Natasha, her guitar slung securely across her shoulder, couldn't help but notice Tony, seated behind the drum kit, his sunglasses doing little to hide the lingering effects of his earlier indulgence. She approached him with a stern expression, a hint of frustration in her voice.

"Tony, you better get it together," She warned. "We're not messing this up tonight."

Tony, ever the charmer, brushed off her concerns with an easy smile and a wave of his hand.

"Nat, I promise, I'm fine. See?"

With that, he launched into a lively drum solo, his sticks dancing skillfully across the drumheads. The rhythm was tight, the sound electrifying. Natasha couldn't help but acknowledge his undeniable talent, even as she sighed in resignation.

"Great," she muttered to herself, "the sunglasses are his secret weapon now."

Standing beside Natasha, Steve placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. His quiet and calming presence was a balm to her nerves.

"It's alright, Natasha," He reassured her, his voice steady and comforting. "We'll get through this gig, just like our old days. Tony’s recovering but he seems fine."

Together they glance back to their bandmate who was more than likely inebriated. Tony chugged a bottle of water, before crushing it and dropping it down onto the floor beside him. 

Natasha's gaze softened as she looked at Steve, a small smile forming on her lips. “Yeah, he’s the epitome of fine.”

“Okay,” Steve pulled her gently to the side. “What’s the problem?” 

“Nothing,” Natasha shrugged. “I just can’t help but think that gigs like this are beneath us. I mean we went from performing at the MTV Video Music Awards to this? A sweet sixteen?”

Steve looked at her. He had been through thick and thin with Natasha and knew the depth of her concerns. 

“Natasha,” He replied. “I get your worries, but I promise this is a good thing for us. Todd Jameson is one of the biggest music producers in Hollywood right now. There will be a lot of executives here just to support his daughter. Think of what that could mean for us.”

“Fine,” Natasha nodded. “But if he fucks up I kick his ass.”

“Oh, you bet. Right after I’m done kicking it,” Steve joked causing Natasha to burst into laughter. 

Natasha steps back over to the mic. “Alright let’s take it from the top.” 

As Natasha prepared to lead the band into their rehearsal of the first song, the peacefulness of the backyard rehearsal space was abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Harley Jameson. She swept onto the scene with all the extravagance befitting a Hollywood princess, accompanied by a harried-looking party planner and another woman, who appeared to be a guest.

Harley, the embodiment of a spoiled heiress, immediately began issuing orders with a sense of entitlement that left the party planner flustered.

"No, no, no! These decorations are all wrong! Change them around! The mirror ball should be over here. And I want a live peacock by the pool. It's not too much to ask, is it?" Harley demanded impatiently.

The party planner, clearly overwhelmed, tried to keep up with Harley's demands. "Harley, we only have a few hours before the party starts. It's going to be challenging to make all these changes in such a short time."

Harley huffed, uninterested in the logistical challenges she was causing. "I don't care about that. Just get it done. My dad said I could have whatever I wanted."

Meanwhile, Harley's attention shifted to Velvet Rebellion, her face lighting up with enthusiasm.

"Oh, my God! I've been dying to meet you! I'm a huge fan!" she exclaimed with excitement. “I’m so happy I could get you here.”

She bounded over to the band, seemingly oblivious to the chaos she was creating, and introduced them to the party planner and you.

"This is Velvet Rebellion!" Harley introduced with enthusiasm. "Steve, the keyboardist, Tony on the drums, Bucky on the electric guitar, Wanda, the second lead singer and bass guitar, and Natasha, the incredible lead singer!"

You and the other woman exchanged glances, your expressions a mixture of frustration and amusement at the whirlwind that was Harley Jameson. You gave a small wave, opting to be in the background of this exchange. 

Wanda, ever the peacekeeper, managed to maintain her composure and put on a friendly smile despite Harley's overwhelming energy. She nodded graciously at Harley's enthusiasm.

"Oh, thank you so much, Harley!" Wanda replied with genuine warmth. "We're thrilled to meet you too. Your party looks like it's going to be incredible!"

Harley's energy showed no signs of waning as she delved into the details of the band's performance. When Wanda mentioned their planned first song, "Smoke and Mirrors," Harley immediately piped up with an alternative suggestion.

"No, no, no," Harley interrupted with fervor. "I want you to start with 'Ink and Whiskey.' It's my favorite!"

Natasha, who had been preparing to protest the sudden change to their setlist, hesitated as she saw Wanda's meek demeanor. However, it was clear that Harley's demand had disrupted their carefully planned sequence.

Natasha began to voice her concerns, but Harley's retort was swift and smart-mouthed. 

“We’ve already planned this out for-” Natasha began. 

“Oh, you can change it, can’t you? It’s just a silly setlist,” Harly questioned. 

Before Natasha could respond, you intervened with a calm yet authoritative tone.

"Harley, let's tone it down a bit," You advised, your demeanor oozing an air of authority that surprised Natasha. Harley listened, her earlier defiance giving way to a more composed demeanor.

“Sorry, I’m just excited,” Harley shrugged. 

Natasha found herself intrigued by your presence and the respect Harley seemed to show you.

"Alright," Natasha conceded with a smile, "since it's your birthday, we'll start with 'Ink and Whiskey.'"

Wanda offered a nod of agreement, and the tension in the air began to dissipate.

Harley, feeling triumphant, turned her attention to the party planner.

"Sarah, darling, let's make sure everything is perfect. I want it to be a night to remember!" Harley changed the subject, pulling you both back into a conversation with ease. 

Sarah, the party planner, nodded and tried to hide her relief that the brief crisis had passed. 

"Of course, Harley. Everything will be just as you want it."

Natasha watched the exchange between Harley and Sarah, her curiosity piqued more by you. 

“Who’s the chick?” Natasha pointed over to you with a tilt of her head. She got shrugs from Steve and Bucky. Tony was way too distracted to answer as he flirted with one of the staff. Wanda squinted to see if she could guess. 

“I don’t know,” Wanda said. “She looks vaguely familiar, but I’m guessing it’s not her mom.”

“Interesting,” Natasha mumbled to herself. She shook her head. There was no time for whatever the thumping in her heart was proving to be. She was here for the band and for the music. Also for the money, she couldn’t forget the money. 

As the preparations for the party continued, your cell phone suddenly rang, breaking the conversation flow. You excused yourself with a polite smile and stepped away from the group, heading toward a quieter corner of the backyard a few feet away.

Natasha couldn't help but overhear snippets of your conversation, the tone of your voice suggesting a heartfelt exchange, likely with a significant other. Natasha discreetly glanced in your direction, her curiosity getting the best of her.

Your voice held a gentle warmth as you spoke softly into your phone, your words filled with affection and longing.

 "I miss you too, sweetheart. Yeah, the party's getting started here in a couple of hours. It's not the same without you. Can't wait to see you soon." You smiled. 

Natasha couldn't hear the other end of the conversation, but the tenderness in your voice painted a clear picture of a loving connection between you and someone special.

Meanwhile, Harley, always the inquisitive host, began questioning Steve and Bucky about the band and its music.

"So, guys," Harley started, her interest genuine, "Have you ever thought about going solo? I am dying to know the secret."

Steve and Bucky, accustomed to answering these questions, engaged in a friendly chat with Harley, even if they also found her annoying. 

As Natasha discreetly observed you from the corner of her eye, she couldn't help but be captivated by your natural beauty. You were dressed in a simple white t-shirt and form-fitting jeans, a look that should have been unremarkable, but on you, it was utterly captivating.

The way your hair was styled, framing your face in soft waves, added to your appeal. Your skin had a radiant glow, and your features held an understated elegance that drew Natasha's attention. Despite the casual attire, you exuded a timeless charm that was impossible to ignore.

Natasha found herself admiring the effortless beauty that seemed to emanate from you and she wanted to know more. 

Just as Natasha started to pretend she wasn't eavesdropping, you turned around with a warm smile, catching her off guard. She quickly toyed with her microphone stand, feigning indifference.

You found her reaction amusing but were soon drawn back into your phone conversation. Natasha couldn't help but wonder about the person on the other end of that call and what had sparked such a genuine smile on your face. 

She toyed with the mic stand for as long as possible, physically forcing herself not to look your way. It’s a few more minutes before you returned to the group. You turned your attention to Harley and Sarah.

"Harley, don't forget, you have that hair appointment in an hour," You reminded her, glancing at your watch. "We need to make sure you're all set for your big night."

Harley, momentarily distracted by the band's presence, nodded in agreement.

"Oh, right! Thanks, y/n. I'll head out now," Harley replied with a grin. She turned to the band and offered her farewells. "Catch you all later!"

With that, Harley and Sarah departed, leaving Velvet Rebellion alone in the backyard.

As the group began to disperse, you took a moment to say goodbye to the band. 

“See you guys tonight,” You said. “I’m sure you’ll do great. If you need refreshments just ask one of the staff and they will be happy to help you with anything you need.” 

Natasha responded with a small smile and a nod, a subtle acknowledgment of the brief but pleasant interaction.

Once you, Harley, and Sarah were out of earshot, the rest of the band couldn't resist teasing Natasha. Wanda, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, chimed in.

"Uh oh, I know that look," Wanda teased, earning a knowing chuckle from the others. Natasha's momentary fascination with you hadn't gone unnoticed, and her bandmates were more than happy to playfully nudge her about it.

“There’s no look, I don’t have a look.” Natasha rolled her eyes. 

“Sure, you don’t,” Wanda grinned. “Any bets on how long until she gets her number?”

“I say within the hour,” Tony raised his hand pulling out a single, crinkled five-dollar bill from his back pocket. 

“Fifteen says they sleep together after the show,” Bucky shrugged. Steve is the only one to remain silent. 

“I don’t know,” Steve scratched the back of his neck. “I think I’ll save my thoughts for later. The girl barely said two words to any of us.”

“Thank you,” Natasha said. “Now, can we rehearse like a proper band?” 

She tried to erase your image from her head as she positioned herself in front of the microphone. 

From the top. 

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

The night was alive with energy as Velvet Rebellion took the stage, the crowd gathered around, eager to soak in every note of their music. Natasha oozed confidence and charisma, a star in every sense of the word. The opening chords of "Ink and Whiskey" filled the air, and the crowd erupted in cheers. This birthday party was a rager if she’d ever seen one. Natasha always considered rich people stiff and uptight. Going to plenty of parties once their debut kicked off their careers. Stiff drinks, weird pleasantries, and even more drugs. She was being proven wrong with this particular shindig. 

She moved to the edge of the stage, her presence magnetic. She sang with a passion that could be felt in every corner of the space, her voice carrying the weight of their lyrics. The audience couldn't help but be drawn into her performance, and they eagerly joined in, singing along and dancing to the beat.

Wanda, standing beside Natasha, bled a different kind of cool and calm. Her steady presence provided the perfect balance to Natasha's fiery performance. It was clear to anyone watching that their dynamic was the secret to their success.

Natasha lowered her head, giving Wanda the floor to sing her part of the chorus. Wanda’s hands moved steadily between the chords as she sang into the microphone. 

Ink and whiskey, the pages of our hearts,  

Tangled in the chapters where love starts,  

In the darkness, our secrets we confide,  

With every word written, our souls collide

Natasha steps forward, moving close enough to the microphone so that she and Wanda could harmonize the last verse. Her eyes travel from Wanda’s, smiling as they share in the energy and joy of being on stage before she maneuvers herself to face the crowd. 

In the night's embrace, our love's sweet refrain,  

Ink and whiskey, like a runaway train,  

Through the highs and lows, we'll find our way,  

With every word we write, love's here to stay

In the front row, Harley danced with her friends, reveling in the music and the excitement of the night. The atmosphere was electric, and the joy was contagious.

As Natasha sang, she scanned the crowd, her eyes landing on familiar faces among the sea of B-listers and music enthusiasts. But the one that stood out the most was you. Your eyes locked, and Natasha couldn't resist a playful wink, a silent acknowledgment of your earlier encounter.

You raised your glass in a silent toast and clapped enthusiastically when the song came to an end. You weren’t a huge fan of the music genre but you could see why Velvet Rebellion was such a rising star amongst new artists. Their stage presence was undeniable, the song was catchy and the beat was electrifying. It helped that Natasha was cute. All good things in your book. You can’t take your eyes off the stage as they move into their next song. It’s a bit disjointed considering Harley made them change the setlist around the last minute but it seems smooth either way. Natasha dances a bit for this one, her body movements fluid and effortless. Almost as if she’s had some training. 

You’re momentarily distracted when a distant family member comes to say hello. 

The show must go on as Natasha continues to sing her heart out. 

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

The final notes of their setlist rang out, and the crowd roared in appreciation. Velvet Rebellion had given their all, and now it was time for the DJ to take over and keep the party going.

Wanda had convinced Natasha to stay a while longer, promising that the night was still young and full of possibilities. Tony, ever the charmer, remarked with a grin, "I see a few MILFs in the crowd that I wouldn't mind mingling with." He slipped into the crowd with ease, chatting up the first single woman he saw. 

Natasha, however, remained all about business. She stood at the bar, surveying the party and keeping a watchful eye on her bandmates. The chaos and revelry around her seemed to blur into a colorful swirl of dancing bodies and laughter.

It was then that you approached her, catching Natasha's attention. Your presence was a welcome change of pace, and Natasha couldn't help but appreciate the genuine compliment she received.

"You guys were incredible," You said with a smile. "I'm impressed."

Natasha, always a woman of few words in such settings, offered a gracious nod of acknowledgment. 

You extended your hand with a warm smile as you introduced yourself, "I'm y/n. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Natasha shook your hand firmly and replied, "Natasha. Likewise."

You couldn't help but notice Natasha's reserved demeanor. Almost as if she felt too cool to be here. 

"I couldn't help but wonder," You began, your curiosity evident as you raised your voice above the music. "why aren't you out there dancing like the rest of your bandmates?"

Natasha offered a wry smile and shot back, "I could ask you the same thing."

“Touche,” You nodded. “I’m not much of a party girl.” You turn towards the bartender. “Do you want a drink? Eric here makes the best mojitos.”

“Sure, I’ll have a sex on the beach,” Natasha asked. 

“You heard the woman,” You jokingly said to Eric as he began to make your drinks. As you focused your attention on grabbing a few napkins, Natasha gave you a once-over. Your party dress was a delightful balance of simplicity and style. The knee-length and backless dress showcased a flattering silhouette, hugging your curves in all the right places. The deep, midnight-blue fabric was decorated with tiny, shimmering glitter that seemed to twinkle with each movement you made. Its sweetheart neckline and delicate spaghetti straps added a touch of femininity to the ensemble, while the mid-thigh slit allowed for easy movement as you moved. The overall effect was a cute yet elegant dress that perfectly suited the festive atmosphere of the party.

Natasha's observant eye caught the jewelry adorning your wrist. It was subtle but tasteful, hinting at a level of refinement that didn't go unnoticed. It was at least half of her salary for tonight’s show. This only interested her more. She needed to know who you were. She wanted to know the mystery behind you and your name. 

“Here you go,” You step back over to Natasha to hand her a drink. “I hope I’m not being too forward.”

“Not at all,” Natasha shrugged. 

"You know, if you're looking for a bit more quiet, we could step inside for a breather." You suggested, tilting your chin towards the house. 

Natasha considered the offer, realizing that a change of scenery might be a welcome respite from the party's chaos. With a small smile, she agreed, "That sounds like a good idea."

You led Natasha through the sea of people and inside the mansion to a nearby office where the music's relentless thump was muffled, and the atmosphere was quieter. It was a welcome change from the frenzied party outside.

As you settled into seats close to each other on the couch, drinks in hand, Natasha couldn't help herself and began to ask you questions. 

“Why did you ask me in here tonight?” Natasha asked. “Not that I’m complaining. I have been invited into much worse places.”  

“Thanks, I think,” You chuckled. You sensed Natasha's curiosity and offered a simple explanation, your eyes holding Natasha's in an unspoken connection."I enjoy meeting new people," you confessed, your voice soft but sincere. "And I've decided I wanted to talk with you."

You took a sip of your drink, your gaze thoughtful. "I also wanted to apologize for Harley's behavior earlier. She can be... spirited at times."

Natasha waved off the apology with a small smile, understanding that spirited was one way to describe Harley's antics.

You went on to explain, "Usually, I don't speak up like that, but my uncle has a way of spoiling Harley. It's... complicated."

Natasha's curiosity got the better of her, and she asked, "Your uncle? He’s Todd Jameson?"

You took a moment before revealing, "Yes. He and my dad are half-brothers. Making Harley my little cousin. I don’t admit it often."

The revelation left Natasha intrigued. She had heard the name Todd Jameson before, a figure of significance in the entertainment industry. The connection between you and Harley was now becoming clearer, and Natasha couldn't help but wonder about the family connection.

“That would make your dad…” Natasha began. 

“Nick Fury, the one and only,” You finished for her. “Different fathers. My dad is somewhere out there tonight. It’s a thing I don’t like to admit to strangers.”

“I get it,” Natasha nodded. 

The revelation about your family connection to Todd Jameson made Natasha pause for a moment. She had always admired the award-winning jazz player turned talent manager, Nick Fury, from afar. His contributions to the music industry were legendary, and Natasha couldn't deny that she was a fan of his music.

She decided not to fangirl, though, and instead offered a genuine smile. "Your dad is a legend. I've always been a fan of his music."

Your eyes lit up with appreciation. "Thank you, Natasha. I'll be sure to pass that along to him." You set your half-empty cup onto a coaster, before turning back to Natasha. “So, watching you on that stage. Not many people have that star power. I was wondering if you have experience dancing? You were incredible.” 

Natasha's eyes sparkled as she recalled her performance. "The way I danced on stage during our set, it's a part of who I am. I guess you could say it's a bit of my background showing through."

Your curiosity piqued, and you guessed, "Ballet, then?"

Natasha nodded. "Yes, I did ballet for sixteen years as a child. I even got into Juilliard."

Your eyes widened in admiration. "That's amazing, Natasha. How did you get into singing and music?"

Natasha took a sip of her drink and smiled as she delved into the story of how she got into music. It was a story that she didn't often share, but there was something about her conversation with you that made her feel comfortable opening up.

"It all started back in high school," Natasha began. "I was really into dancing, and it was an elective at my school. But then, one day, I decided to join the choir on a whim. And I fell in love with singing and songwriting. I grew up in a rough neighborhood. I needed something to keep me out of the house and off the streets."

She paused for a moment, reminiscing about those early days. "So, I started writing songs, and my friends Wanda and Steve would go over to Steve’s small bedroom. We'd play our rented instruments and experiment with different sounds. It was just a fun little hobby at first."

Natasha's gaze drifted, lost in the memories of those simple beginnings. "Then Bucky, Steve’s best friend well, he's always been a bit of a troublemaker, but he's got a talent for the electric guitar. And Tony...his dad's pretty wealthy and bought us all our equipment. Plus, he's good at the drums."

She chuckled, shaking her head. "It was a bit of a motley crew, but that's how Velvet Rebellion came to be. We started playing in small venues, dive bars, and country clubs. And somehow, we made it here."

Natasha's usually guarded demeanor had softened in your presence, and she found herself enjoying the opportunity to share a piece of her journey with someone who seemed genuinely interested in her story.

“I love that,” You nodded. You and Natasha share a smile before she asked. 

“Is your boyfriend here tonight? I don’t want to keep you too long,” She fished for more information. 

“No, no,” You shake your head. “No boyfriend. You?”

“Not really into monogamy at the moment,” She shrugged. She doesn’t know if this statement will bite her in the ass later but for some reason she trusted you. “Tell me about you. Are you in the family business or?”

"I've always had a bit of a connection to the music world," You began. "As a teenager, I sang a few backup vocals for artists my uncle produced. I guess you could say I almost pursued a career in music, but life had other plans for me. I got pregnant at seventeen. Dedicated to finish school and go to college."

You took a thoughtful swig of your drink and continued, "Now, I'm a publicist. I don't mean to brag, but I'm good at what I do.When I'm not working, I'm taking care of my daughter, Isabella. She's nine years old and the light of my life."

Your face softened as you spoke about your daughter, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. "She's with her dad for the weekend," you added, "and we co-parent quite well."

Natasha was genuinely interested in your life outside of the party scene, and she couldn't resist asking, "Do you have any pictures of Isabella? I'd love to see her."

Your eyes twinkled with delight as you pulled out your phone and began to share a few adorable images of your daughter. Natasha couldn't help but smile as she admired the photos, enjoying this glimpse into your world beyond the music and the party.

“Here she is at gymnastics practice,” You flipped through a few pictures of Isabella’s smiling face. “And swim. She is a little spitfire and she wants to do it all.”

“Wow,” Natasha smiled as if Isabella were her own child. “Do you ever want more?”

“Maybe one day,” You said wistfully. “For now I feel pretty full with everything in life. You?” 

You noticed the change in Natasha's expression and asked, "Is something on your mind?"

Natasha sighed, leaning back into her seat. "I just don't know if I'm cut out for motherhood," she admitted. "I have a younger sister, Yelena, she’s attending the University of Cambridge in England now. She's even developed a bit of a British accent." Natasha couldn't help but chuckle at the thought.

"But," she continued, "I enjoy the fast-paced life, the music, the performances, and the constant movement. A significant other won’t quite understand that I don't always have the time. Not that I don’t ever want that someday but…” Her voice died down. 

You listened empathetically, understanding the complexities of Natasha's life as a musician. "I get that," you acknowledged. "But it's essential to find the right balance for you, whether it's in your music career, personal life, or something in between. My dad was able to do it. When he crossed over into hip-hop there was definitely a lot he missed but he still made things happen"

“Really? Well, I will have to ask him for pointers.” She grinned. 

Just as the conversation was reaching its peak, there came a polite knock at the office door. A member of the party staff popped in to inform you that they were ready to sing "Happy Birthday" to Harley.

You turned to Natasha with a warm smile. "It was nice meeting and talking to you, Natasha," you said genuinely.

Natasha, not wanting the connection to end, began, "You know, I'd love to..."

But before she could finish her sentence, your cheeks flushed, and you interrupted already knowing what she was going to say, your voice bold, "Are you going to call me, or are you going to leave me hanging in the wind?"

Natasha couldn't help but laugh at your sudden assertiveness. It was a pleasant surprise. "I’m not that type of woman," Natasha said. At your look, she laughed again. “You got me there.”

You returned her smile and handed Natasha your phone, saying, "You'll just have to trust me with your number instead, and I'll call." Asking for her number instead eased the pressure off Natasha, and also your nerves at hoping she’d call. 

You gave Natasha a wink and chucked a thumb over your shoulder to indicate you were going back to the party. Natasha nodded and watched you walk away. When her eyes trailed lower she doesn’t even feel guilty about it. 

Natasha left the office, rejoining her bandmates outside in the backyard, just as they were preparing to sing "Happy Birthday" to Harley. The festive atmosphere was in full swing, and the energy of the party was infectious.

As the crowd gathered around Harley, Natasha's eyes scanned the faces, and they landed on you, who was standing among the partygoers. Your eyes met, and you shared a knowing smile, a silent acknowledgment of the connection you had developed.

Tony, always quick to pick up on things, couldn't help but tease Natasha when he noticed her grin. "So, did you get her number?"

Natasha rolled her eyes at Tony's assumption but then burst into laughter. "No," she replied with a playful smirk, "she took mine."

The party was still in full swing when someone on stage stopped the music with a loud, "Hey, everyone! Can I have your attention, please?"

The spotlight shifted to the stage, and all eyes turned toward the source of the interruption. It was a friend of Harley's, and he had a mischievous grin on his face as he spoke into the microphone.

"I have a special surprise for our birthday girl tonight," he announced. "We have someone here who's agreed to sing 'Happy Birthday' to Harley, and I think you're all in for a treat."

A collective cheer and applause erupted from the crowd as they eagerly anticipated the surprise. The spotlight moved to you, highlighting your face and putting you on the spot. You managed to not look like a deer in headlights which was a feat in itself. Natasha's curiosity was piqued, especially considering you had mentioned you weren’t much of a singer.

You tried to protest shyly, but the crowd begged you to come up on stage. Encouraged by their cheers, you reluctantly made your way up to the spotlight.

Once on stage, you cleared your throat and took a deep breath, your nerves palpable. You began with a little birthday speech, your voice tinged with affection and humor.

"I want to wish a happy birthday to my cousin Harley," You began, your smile directed at the birthday girl. "Even though she's a bit of a brat," you teased, earning laughs from the crowd, "she's my brat, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

Then, as expected, you began to sing "Happy Birthday." Your voice, which you had modestly downplayed earlier, was nothing short of remarkable. It was soulful, sweet, and filled with a depth of emotion that resonated through the entire backyard.

The crowd, including Natasha, was utterly blown away by the unexpected talent that you possessed. Your voice filled the air, making the birthday celebration even more special and memorable. It was a moment of pure magic, and Natasha couldn't help but be captivated by your incredible singing ability.

Natasha decided two things then and there. One, she really liked you, and two, boy, was she in for a ride.

---> next part

[mostlysignssomeportents]

2600’s amazing Hackers on Planet Earth con may go down under enshittification

Catch me in Miami! I'll be at Books and Books in Coral Gables on Jan 22 at 8PM.

It's been 40 years since Emmanuel Goldstein launched the seminal, essential, world-changing 2600: The Hacker Quarterly. 2600 wasn't the first phreak/hacker zine, but it was the most important, spawning a global subculture dedicated to the noble pursuit of technological self-determination:

https://www.2600.com/

2600 has published hundreds of issues in which digital spelunkers report eagerly on the things they've discovered by peering intently at the things no one was supposed to even glance at (I'm proud to be one of those writers!). They've fought legal battles, including one that almost went to the Supreme Court:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DeCSS

They created a global network of meetups where some of technology's most durable friendships and important collaborations were born. These continue to this day:

https://www.2600.com/meetings

And they've hosted a weekly radio show on NYC's WBAI, Off the Hook:

https://wbai.org/program.php?program=76

When WBAI management lost their minds and locked the station's most beloved hosts out of the studio, Off the Hook (naturally) led the rebellion, taking back the station for its audience, rescuing it from a managerial coup:

https://twitter.com/2600/status/1181423565389942786

But best of all, 2600 gave us HOPE – both in the metaphorical sense of "hope for a better technological tomorrow" and in the literal sense, with its biannual Hackers On Planet Earth con:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hackers_on_Planet_Earth

For decades HOPE had an incredible venue, the Hotel Pennsylvania (memorialized in the phreak anthem "PEnnsylvania 6-5000"), a crumbling pile in midtown Manhattan that was biannually transformed into a rollicking, multi-day festival of forbidden technology, improbable feats, and incredible presentations. I was privileged to keynote HOPE in 2016:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1D7APjmVbk

But after the 2018 HOPE, the Hotel Pennsylvania was demolished to make way for the Penn15 (no, really) skyscraper, a vaporware mega-tower planned as a holding pen for luxury shopping and empty million-dollar condos sold to offshore war-criminals as safe-deposit boxes in the sky. The developer, Vornado (no, really) hasn't actually done all that – after demo'ing the Hotel Pennsylvania, they noped out, leave a large, unusable scar across midtown.

But HOPE wasn't lost. In 2022, the ever-resilient 2600 crew relocated to Queens, hosted by St John's University – a venue that was less glamorous that the Hotel Pennsylvania, but the event was still fantastic. Attendance fell from 2,000 to 1,000, but that was something they could work with, and reviews from attendees were stellar.

Good thing, too. 2600 is, first and foremost, a magazine publisher, and these have been hard years for magazines. First there was the mass die-off of indie bookstores and newsracks (I used to sell 2600 when I was a bookseller, and in the years after, I always took the presence of 2600 on a store's newsrack as an unimpeachable mark of quality).

Thankfully for 2600, their audience is (unsurprisingly) a tech-savvy one, so they were able to substitute digital subscriptions for physical ones:

https://www.2600.com/Magazine/DigitalEditions

Of course, many of those subscriptions came through Amazon's Kindle, because nerds were early Amazon adopters, and because the Kindle magazine publishing platform offered DRM-free distribution to subscribers along with a fair payout to publishers.

But then Amazon enshittified its magazine system. Having locked publishers to its platform, it rugged them and killed the monthly subscription fees that allowed publishers to plan for a steady output. Publishers were given a choice: leave Amazon (and all the readers locked inside its walled garden) or put your magazine into the Kindle Unlimited system:

https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/arp/B0BWPTCP4K?deviceType=A1FG5NAKX0MRJL

Kindle Unlimited is an all-you-can-eat program for Kindle, which pays publishers and writers based on a system that is both opaque and easily gamed, with the lion's share of the money going to "publishers" who focus on figuring out how to cheat the algorithm. Revenues for 2600 – and all the other magazines that Amazon had sucked in and sucked dry – fell off a cliff.

Which brings me to the present moment. After 40 years, 2600 is still at it, having survived the bookstorepocalypse, the lunacy of public radio management, the literal demolition of their physical home by an evil real-estate developer, and Amazon's crooked accounting.

This is 2600, circa 2024, and 2024 a HOPE year:

https://www.hope.net/

Once again, HOPE has been scheduled for its new digs in Queens, July 12-14. Last week, HOPE sent out an email blast to their subscribers telling them the news. They expected to sell 500 tickets in the first 24 hours. They didn't even come close:

https://www.2600.com/content/hope-ticket-sales-update

It turns out that Google and the other major mail providers don't like emails with the word "hacker" in them. The cartel that decides which email gets delivered, and which messages go to spam, or get blocked altogether, mass-blocked the HOPE 2024 announcement. Email may be the last federated, open platform we have, but mass concentration has created a system where it's nearly impossible to get your email delivered unless you're willing to play by Gmail's rules:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/10/10/dead-letters/

For Emmanuel Goldstein, founder of 2600 and tireless toiler for this community, the deafening silence following from that initial email volley was terrifying: "like some kind of a "Twilight Zone" episode where everyone has disappeared."

The enshittification that keeps 2600's emails from being delivered to the people who asked to receive them is even worse on social media. Social media companies routinely defraud their users by letting them subscribe to feeds, then turning around to the people and organizations that run those feeds and saying, "You've got x thousand subscribers on this platform, but we won't put your posts in their feeds unless you pay us to 'boost' your content":

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2023/04/platforms-decay-lets-put-users-first

Enshittification has been coming at 2600 for decades. Like other forms of oddball media dedicated to challenging corporate power and government oppression, 2600 has always been a ten-years-ahead preview of the way the noose was gonna tighten on all of us. And now, they're on the ropes. HOPE can't sell tickets unless people know about HOPE, and neither email providers nor social media platforms have any interest in making that happen.

A handful of giant corporations now get to decide what we read, who we hear from, and whether and how we can get together in person to make friends, forge community, rabble-rouse and change the world. The idea that "it's not censorship unless the government does it" has always been wrong (not all censorship violates the First Amendment, and censorship can be real without being unconstitutional):

https://pluralistic.net/2022/12/04/yes-its-censorship/

What can you do about it? Well, for one thing, you can sign up for HOPE. It's gonna be great. They've got sub-$100 hotel rooms! In New York City!

https://store.2600.com/products/tickets-to-hope-xv

If you can't make it to HOPE, you can sign up for a virtual membership:

https://store.2600.com/products/tickets-to-hope-xv-virtual-attendee

You can submit a talk to HOPE:

https://www.hope.net/cfp.html

You can subscribe to 2600, in print or electronically (I signed up for the lifetime print subscription and it was a bargain – I devour every issue the day it arrives):

https://store.2600.com/collections/subscriptions-renewals

2600 is living a decade in the future of every other community you care about, weird hobby you enjoy, con you live for, and publication you read from cover to cover. If we can all pull together to save it, it'll be a beacon of hope (and HOPE).

I'm Kickstarting the audiobook for The Bezzle, the sequel to Red Team Blues, narrated by @wilwheaton! You can pre-order the audiobook and ebook, DRM free, as well as the hardcover, signed or unsigned. There's also bundles with Red Team Blues in ebook, audio or paperback.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/19/hope-less/#hack-the-planet

[luminalunii97]

I've seen non Iranians admiring the Islamic Republic national football team for not singing the national anthem. And then they were confused as to why iranians were happy that the team lost. Yes not singing the anthem might have consequences for them, but it won't change the fact that these people went to visit Raisi, the Islamic Republic president and bowed to him, posed happily for pictures while we were dealing with Kiam Pirfalak news, and said they don't care about politics and what's going on Iran in an interview, stating that they will focus on the game only. Not singing the anthem is nothing in comparison. And you might think they were under pressure. So were other athletes in Iran, let's see what they did:

Picture on the right is Elnaz Rekabi, an Iranian rock climber who was the first athlete to take off her hijab during Mahsa Amini protests to show her solidarity with people. She's currently under house arrest. she wasn't the first Iranian woman ever doing that. On the left, that's Shohreh Bayat, her story is so sad.

In many interviews I've seen of her, she always cries when she says her story. She was to referee the final of the Women's World Chess Championship a couple of years ago. While in another country she decided to wear her hijab loosely in an act of rebellion. She got warning from Islamic Republic twice and everytime she made it worse. She was asked to apologize but she refused, saying that she wouldn't apologize for what she believes in. At last, even though she wasn't ready to leave everything behind and start from scratch in a foreign country, she decided to ditch the compulsory hijab completely and never come back to Iran, because her life would be in danger if she did. Because of her choice she can't come back to visit her family anymore. her family supported her which made the authorities to force her father to resign (her father was the president of chess association in Gilan, Iran).

Then we had Iranian national beach soccer team. I think they were the first group who refused to sing Islamic republic national anthem. And after they got threatened to sing the anthem, they did something even more iconic. One of the players cut his imaginary hair after he scored.

Then we had these two scenes after scoring. They were recreating an inhuman thing Islamic republic did. The guy on the right is Khodanoor Lajei. He was murdered on bloody Friday in Zahedan. He was a Baloch guy. I'm going to post about Balochs and the thing that's been done to them by Islamic republic in details. For now know that this guy got killed in protests but this picture of him is for a couple of months back. He insulted a Basiji guy or something, Islamic republic police chained him to a pole in the middle of the city to make him an example for others, after beating him. When he asked for water they brought him a cup but they put it out of his reach in front of him and laughed at his thirst. (You see why we hate Islamic Republic, IRGC and Basij?!) The picture got out only after his death because Baloch people didn't think the rest of Iran would care about them enough to react. That broke my heart unspeakably much.

With so much bravery, our national girl's basketball team has been posting photos without mandatory hijab ever since the protests have begun.

Last but not least, Parmida Ghasemi, iranian archer ditching mandatory hijab inside of iran. She took it out for receiving the prize and while she was being photographed.

(Btw, non of these women "forgot" their hijab accidentally. If you're iranian you learn to never forget your hijab since you're 7, the age you start school. Without a formal head wearing you won't be allowed to attend school classes. When you grow up with it, you'll get used to it. You have no idea how weird it feels to not wear a veil in public, I'm still getting used to it.)

we've witnessed many iconic brave moves by our athletes but non of them said we don't give a shit about what's happening in Iran before the game. I'm not saying they won't be redeemed one day, I'm just saying they should work to win their respect back.

[vogelmeister]

“its the things we love most that destroy us.”

lucy grey being the only person in the end who has evidence against snow

“its the things we love most that destroy us.”

lucy greys songs being used as anthems of the rebellion, that eventually took down snow.

[consoledacup]

The wedding dance is my favorite dance for sure. And while I adore that BTS video Nicola shared (how generous is she, btw??) and watch it frequently, I really do like what we got in the final edit. Plus, kudos to Tom Verica for imagining the cutaway and springing it on the cast day of filming. Brilliant directing choice.

When Penelope approaches Colin -- after they've been longing for each other at their own wedding?? -- Colin's so game to do whatever she wants. He thinks she's going to ask him to ditch the breakfast, and he's like, where?

But it's lovely that instead, she tells him she'd like to dance with him. And as he's half-heartedly pushing back, you can tell how he's still so charmed by her. By this time, they must have danced with each other a hell of a lot. I love that Penelope constantly reminds Colin of their dance in the empty church. It was just a silly, romantic something Colin did on the fly, but clearly it meant so much to her.

"You Belong With Me" has been Penelope's anthem since before the series started, and it has been Colin's for a shorter, but no less intense, amount of time. And they're in a very uncertain state in their new marriage, so the song still really works.

They may not be ready for a real conversation just yet, but the dance erodes away some of their tension where they can just enjoy each other. And it's funny because as much as Colin postured about not caring what people thought, he's the one scandalized by Penelope's offer. But he extends his hand and leads her to the center of the room without showing any reluctance.

What's so special about this dance is that it spurs other characters to take chances too. The ton has been more or less intrigued by this match, and others have been downright obsessed. So the two lovely dancer couples who probably have very sweet backstories join in. And now it's a dance, not a scandal.

It's not just Colin and Penelope making a statement, but really, it's them giving everyone else permission to just kinda live a little. Who cares if it's a wedding breakfast? And yeah, people might be shocked later on that Penelope is Lady Whilstledown, but can they really say that if they were one of the wedding guests? Penelope has always been challenging the status quo, anonymous or not.

And then John is inspired by the couple's display of affection and rebellion and asks Francesca to join in. And Marcus, who is definitely a romantic, sees the love flowing among Violet's children and their partners and takes that opportunity to approach Violet.

The beauty of this is, the entire time, Colin and Penelope have no bearing on their surroundings or what sort of catalyst their impromptu dance has become. But the rest of the ton do. And instead of becoming scandalized by this faux pas, everyone's actually pretty charmed by it.

Obviously, the intensity during their dance is so magical and the best part of the entire thing. But I really do love how earnestly everyone else responds, too.

[queenofthekings]

Being in Eddie's trailer usually meant sitting you on his floor with your acoustic guitar, strumming and singing songs long into the night and morning. Sometimes Eddie would join in with singing, his lower voice harmonizing perfectly with your softer one.

There were times you'd write songs together but you had very different styles and ideas of what you'd want to write about. Eddie would want to write metal songs about rebelling against the status quo and how much he hated everyone, while you wanted to write folk songs about how beautiful nature and life was and love songs.

It always made it entertaining for you two to cover each other's songs; Eddie turning your song about hope into a metal screaming anthem, you turning Eddie's song about teenage rebellion into a heart breaking ballad.

Despite your differing music tastes, both of you loved those jamming sessions. They were all you needed; the night, a pack of beer, a few candles and enough songs to last until morning.

When Eddie left to tour with Corroded Coffin, you'd tried to have jamming sessions over the phone but they were infrequent and didn't work most of the time. Eddie would sometimes be too tired from travelling or performing to even call but you understood; he was living his dream and you didn't want to stop him.

But goddammit you missed him so much.

The songs you wrote during his absence being all about how alone you felt and how badly you wished you'd told him about your feelings for him, that somewhere during the years of nights you'd spent together that you had fallen in love with him and all those love songs you'd written were secretly about him.

He was your muse, simple as that.

But little did you know, that Eddie felt the same way you did. He regretted not kissing you goodbye, regretted every time he missed a call with you and mostly regretted ever leaving you behind.

On one hard night, he called you. You picked up after the second ring. "Hello?" your sleepy voice coming through.

"I'm sorry for waking you up, sweetheart. I couldn't sleep," Eddie confessed, taking the phone over to the hotel window and stared out at the sprawling city before him.

"I wasn't asleep," you muttered back. "I couldn't sleep either."

Eddie couldn't help but smile a little at the thought of both of you being unable to sleep. "I miss you, sweetheart. I'm sorry I've been terrible at keeping in contact."

Tears pricked at your eyes as you smiled too. "I miss you too, so much. When do you come back?"

"Should be in a couple weeks. Listen, there's something I wanna tell you and I wanted to wait until I came back-"

"I love you, Eddie," you interrupted.

"I'm sorry?"

"Edward Anthony Munson, I am in love with you."

Eddie stuttered over his words for a few moments, a massive grin on his face. "I love you too, sweetheart. God it feels good to say that, I wanted to tell you before I left but I didn't wanna be an asshole."

You laughed a little as you found Eddie getting flustered absolutely adorable. "I would've never let you leave if you did. But I have one demand for when you come back home and I wanna do it as soon as possible."

"Anything, love."

"One more jamming session on your bedroom floor."

[darknesseddiem]

What about a vintage? reader with Eddie? It could be the 80s or 90s but she wears stuff from the 50s. And Eddie just calls her his little doll.

𝐀 𝐕𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲

N/A: I'm so so sorry for the wait sweetheart, I got so busy with college and forgot about this ask, I wrote a lil' different but I hope you like it!

In the pulsating heart of 1986, amidst the neon glow of arcade machines and the echoing strains of heavy metal anthems, there existed an unlikely pair: Eddie, the quintessential metalhead with his wild hair and leather jacket, and you, the vintage girl who seemed to have stepped out of a bygone era, your attire a homage to the glamour of the 1950s.

Eddie was a fixture at the local arcade, his presence as undeniable as the thrumming bass lines that reverberated through the dimly lit room. He was the embodiment of rebellion, his leather jacket adorned with patches of his favorite bands, and his hair teased into a defiant mane that defied gravity.

And then there was you, with your timeless elegance and old-world charm. Your wardrobe was a treasure trove of vintage finds, each piece meticulously selected to capture the essence of a bygone era. Your victory roll hairstyle and polka-dot dresses were a striking contrast to the leather-clad patrons of the arcade, but you carried yourself with a quiet confidence that commanded attention.

Despite your outward differences, there was an undeniable chemistry between you and Eddie, a connection that transcended the boundaries of time and fashion. You would often find yourselves drawn to the same games, exchanging playful banter as you competed for the high score.

One day, as the arcade buzzed with the energy of another bustling evening, Eddie approached you with a mischievous glint in his eye.

"Care for a game, doll?" he asked, a smirk playing on his lips.

You couldn't help but smile at his invitation, the nickname "doll" sending a warm flutter through your heart.

"Bring it on," you replied, your own grin mirroring his.

And so, amidst the flashing lights and cacophony of sounds, you and Eddie embarked on a friendly rivalry that would soon blossom into something more. As the night wore on, you found yourselves laughing and sharing stories, your differences melting away in the warmth of newfound friendship.

As the neon lights of the arcade flickered, Eddie couldn't shake the feeling that he wanted more than just friendly banter with you, the vintage girl who had captured his attention.

With a nervous knot forming in his stomach, Eddie cleared his throat, summoning the courage to speak up.

"Hey, um, listen," he began, his voice surprisingly soft amidst the fading sounds of the arcade. "I was thinking... Would you, uh, maybe wanna grab a bite to eat sometime? You know, just you and me?"

You looked up at him, your cheeks warming as you met his gaze. His invitation took you by surprise, but there was a warmth in his eyes that made your heart flutter.

"I'd love that," you replied, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "I know this little diner not too far from here. They serve the best milkshakes."

Eddie's grin widened at your response, relief washing over him like a wave. He couldn't believe he had mustered the courage to ask you out, and now, as you agreed to join him, he felt a surge of excitement coursing through his veins.

Together, you made your way to the diner you had mentioned, the anticipation of the evening ahead palpable between you. The streets were alive with the hustle and bustle of city life, but in each other's company, you felt as if you were in a world of your own.

As you entered the diner, the familiar strains of oldies tunes greeted you, transporting you back to a simpler time. The décor was a delightful mix of retro charm and nostalgic flair, with checkered floors and vinyl booths adding to the ambiance.

Eddie held out a chair for you, his gesture a silent promise of his gentlemanly nature. With a grateful smile, you took your seat, the warmth of his gaze sending a shiver of excitement down your spine.

Together, you poured over the menu, exchanging playful banter as you debated the merits of milkshakes versus burgers. In the end, you both decided to indulge in a bit of everything, eager to savor the flavors of the diner's classic offerings.

As the evening wore on, you found yourselves lost in conversation, sharing stories and laughter over plates of fries and sips of creamy milkshakes. With each passing moment, you felt your connection with Eddie deepening, the bond between you growing stronger with every shared smile and stolen glance.

And as the night drew to a close, Eddie reached across the table, his hand seeking yours with a gentle touch.

"I'm really glad we did this," he said, his voice soft with sincerity. "I've had a great time, and I hope we can do it again sometime."

You met his gaze, your heart swelling with affection as you returned his smile.

"I'd like that," you replied, your voice filled with warmth. "Thank you for tonight, Eddie. It's been wonderful."

And as you sat there, hand in hand, amidst the cozy glow of the diner and the timeless melodies of yesteryear, you knew that this was just the beginning of a beautiful journey—one filled with love, laughter, and the promise of many more unforgettable moments to come.

[x--daughters-of-darkness--x]

The 100 songs that changed metal (by Metal Hammer)

74. Within Temptation – Ice Queen (Mother Earth, 2000)

In the 90s, symphonic metal was more a glittering garnish than a scene in itself, something bands from Therion to Celtic Frost would sprinkle on their music to make it sparkle. And while the genre would start coming together into something more tangible towards the end of the decade, it wasn’t until a few years later that a song would emerge to put symphonic metal on the map.

That song was Within Temptation’s Ice Queen. A complete volte-face from the gothic doom of the Dutch metallers’ 1997 debut, Enter, it appeared on the follow-up, Mother Earth, in a flurry of lavish arrangements and fairytale histrionics. Buoyed by vocalist Sharon den Adel’s crystalline voice, it pushed metal towards a new frontier, quickly whipping up a buzz in mainland Europe. Ice Queen can take credit for being symphonic metal’s first major hit, pushing women to the forefront and influencing a brand new generation of bands.

81. Evanescence – Bring Me To Life (Fallen, 2003)

Evanescence’s debut single, Bring Me To Life, turned vocalist Amy Lee into a megastar. Arriving in 2003, when mainstream music was dominated by hyper-masculine men and overly sexualised pop stars, with her billowing long skirts, corset tops, arm socks and steely self-confidence, Amy redefined what a female artist could be, becoming a role model for millions of misfits and dreamers everywhere.

Despite its crunchy guitars and a rapped verse, courtesy of 12 Stones’ Paul McCoy – which Amy has since said she was forced to add by their label – Bring Me To Life’s cobwebby, goth fragility also brought something fresh to nu metal’s dick-swinging party, extending the mainstream’s flirtation with the genre for a little longer – as of 2019, it’s sold more than 3 million copies and has passed more than a billion streams on YouTube and Spotify.

82. Arch Enemy – We Will Rise (Anthems Of Rebellion, 2003)

We Will Rise was a huge song, not only for Arch Enemy but for the new generation of 21st-century melodic death metal they spearheaded. Guitarist Michael Amott had already laid down the melodeath blueprints with Carcass, while Arch Enemy themselves had already made three albums with singer Johan Liiva, but neither they nor anyone else had made an anthem quite like this.

As well as propelling the genre as a whole to greater heights and popularity, it provided a bigger platform for Angela Gossow – a hugely influential figure and one of the first prominent female vocalists to not only try but absolutely nail an extreme metal style. “Her emergence as a metal vocalist was, without hyperbole, revolutionary,” Svalbard’s Serena Cherry told us recently, and we’re not arguing.

84. Nightwish – Nemo (Once, 2004)

Nightwish didn’t invent symphonic metal, but alongside peers Within Temptation and Epica, they popularised it and packaged it to the masses. By 2004, the Finns had already established themselves as a major player in Europe, but with the sumptuous Nemo, they broke through on an unprecedented level.

No longer a niche concern in the geeky corners of the metal world, symphonic metal, in all its lavish, overwrought glory revelled under a global spotlight. Nemo’s fantastical magic, sparkling piano refrain and stirring melody has endured – it’s still the band’s best-known song – but its lasting image comes via its gothic music video, and then-singer Tarja Turunen singing in the snow in a blood-red coat. Nemo showed metal at its most fragile and beautiful.

95. Babymetal – Gimme Chocolate!! (Babymetal, 2014)

If elitists were tearing their hair out at the likes of Ghost, Bring Me The Horizon and Limp Bizkit being considered ‘metal’, then they might as well have just reached for the clippers for this one. The sight of three young Japanese girls rocking choreographed moves and singing sugary-sweet, J-pop-infused choruses about chocolate over heavy metal riffs was as shocking as it was delightful.

Babymetal hadn’t just broken the mould for metal, either; they’d given the West a fuller glimpse into the uniquely Japanese phenomenon of idol culture, and given the cutesy world of Kawaii a bigger global platform than ever. Overseen by band mastermind and producer extraordinaire, Key ‘Kobametal’ Kobayashi, Babymetal were unlike anything our world had seen before: equal parts hyper-polished girl band and full-on heavy metal experience, with their mysterious Kami Band backing musicians as formidable as any ‘proper’ metal band you could name.

Cynics moaned, but with the likes of Rob Halford, Metallica and Corey Taylor throwing in their support, the trio quickly transcended their ‘gimmick’ tag to become a legitimate force in the modern metal landscape.

99. Spiritbox – Holy Roller (Eternal Blue, 2022)

Spiritbox were already firmly established as Ones To Watch by the time Holy Roller, the first single from Eternal Blue, exploded like a hand grenade in the summer of 2020. Once those first, colossal riffs rang out, however, it was clear that the Canadian troupe hadn’t just levelled up considerably – they had successfully repositioned themselves as one of the most exciting and vital bands of their generation.

Backed by a memorable video inspired by Ari Aster’s disturbing Midsommar movie, Holy Roller was the perfect crystallisation of the last decade-plus of evolution in metal, packing djent, metalcore, nu metal and more into a massively crushing (but seriously catchy!) three minutes. “This song was never intended to be a single,” explained vocalist Courtney LaPlante later. “Our mission statement was, ‘Let’s make the most ridiculous song that we can.’”

[glasshcvse]

ficswap for @pickmedolls !

(D)OLLIES  is  the  first  mini-album  by  a  fictional  girl  group,  PICK  ME!,  known  for  blending  bold  rebellion  with  a  playful  charm.  the  album  was  considered  a  collaboration  with  GLASSHOUSE  INC.,  home  of  the  renowned  producer  GLOOMY,  who  took  the  lead  in  producing  it.  

the  album  reflects  its  core  themes  of  individuality  and  breaking  free  from  societal  expectations.  the  six  songs  feature  a  dynamic  mix  of  pop,  hip-hop,  and  dance,  capturing  a  spirit  of  confidence  and  empowerment.  the  group  released  their  debut  single,  ANGEL  OF  MY  DREAMS,  on  april  20th,  2022,  which  was  also  included  in  the  mini.  key  tracks  include  BADITTUDE,  a  powerful  pre-released  anthem  celebrating  self-assurance  and  defiance,  and  TALK  THAT  SHHH,  which  highlights  staying  true  to  oneself  and  embracing  authenticity.  

(D)OLLIES  received  mixed  reactions.  knetizens  thought  this  album  was  a  dig  at  them  for  judging  the  members  for  the  previous  rumours  and  callouts  they  made  about  the  girls.  at  the  same  time,  international  fans  praised  the  group  for  their  fresh  sound  and  empowering  message,  establishing  PICK  ME!  as  a  standout  figure  in  the  music  scene.

album inclusions. ( they might have )

photo booklet + folded poster ( 1ea ) + sticker sheet ( 1ea ) + lyric booklet with illustrations + miniature dollhouse set + postcard ( random member ver. ) + photocards ( random two out of five ).

track list. ( analysis cr. to /plasticflwrs )

ANGEL OF MY DREAMS ... described  as  a  'shape-shifting  banger',  the  song  explores  the  group's  love/hate  relationship  with  the  pop  industry  they've  been  at  the  heart  of  since  their  survival  show.  *there  has  been  lots  of  speculation  that  this  song  is  about  their  former  companies,  especially  with  the  line  "sold  my  soul  to  a  psycho"  could  be  directly  linked  to  that  rumour.

BADITTUDE ... is  all  about  owning  your  confidence  and  standing  up  for  yourself.  lines  like  "girls  with  that  bad  attitude"  highlight  the  power  of  embracing  your  true  self  and  rejecting  anyone  who  tries  to  bring  you  down.  it's  an  anthem  for  anyone  who's  ever  felt  misunderstood  or  pushed  aside,  encouraging  them  to  embrace  their  unique  edge  with  pride.

TALK THAT SHHH ... is  a  declaration  of  self-confidence  and  authenticity.  the  lyrics  focus  on  staying  true  to  who  you  are  despite  the  noise  and  expectations  from  the  outside  world.  the  chorus  evokes  a  sense  of  intimacy  and  self-assurance.  it’s  about  confidently  owning  your  individuality  and  living  life  on  your  own  terms,  celebrating  the  freedom  to  express  yourself  fully  and  unapologetically.

DIE FOR ME ... portrays  a  bold  and  confident  female  character  who  enjoys  having  control  over  her  partner  and  demands  their  submission  and  admiration.  the  song's  lyrics  suggest  a  sensual  and  intense  dynamic  between  two  individuals  but  with  a  hint  of  danger  and  risk.

SO WHAT ... is  all  about  shaking  off  the  weight  of  overthinking  and  self-criticism.  it’s  a  reminder  to  not  get  stuck  down  by  worries  and  to  take  life  a  little  easier.  the  chorus,  with  its  “so  what?”  attitude,  is  a  push  to  let  go  of  perfectionism  and  just  be  okay  with  things.  it’s  about  allowing  yourself  to  slow  down,  make  mistakes,  and  not  sweat  the  small  stuff.

FINDER ... is  the  desire  to  break  free  from  routine  and  monotony  and  to  explore  new  possibilities.  the  lyrics  reflect  that  despite  the  fear  of  the  unknown  or  the  dangers  of  pursuing  their  dreams,  the  group  strives  to  overcome  their  fears  and  take  action  to  obtain  a  better  life.  they  urge  others  to  take  their  hand  and  join  them  on  this  adventure.

poster.

[rose-pearls]

finnick odair x fem!reader fluff/angst

maybe reader was sold off similar to finnick and they bonded over the trauma of it and in the 3rd quarter quell they have a little sweet moment where readers like "i just dont think i can do it anymore'' and finnick comforts them and they cuddle a bit

Thank you for your request! I definitely got carried away with this but I hope you like it!

The Capitol was in full celebration after Peeta and Katniss’s win, the two lovers destined to lose each other miraculously survived. Deep down you knew this was going to help with the revolution that you had all been planning, but faced with it know you couldn’t help but feel scared.

You let out a sigh as you watch the people continue their celebration and decide to turn around and get something for your aching shoulder. The last tribute of district three had died not too long ago and yet here you were again, being sold off to the highest bidder. The couple you had today wanted to try some things you never wanted to think about, but you still had to heal your wounds before sunrise, because god help it if someone saw you with bruises that they gave you. 

“Let me guess, the Levan’s tonight?”, a voice asks behind you as you get your ice pack out and you turn around to see Finnick in a similar state as you.

“And you Heavensbee?”, Finnick hums and sits down on the barstool, wincing as he sits down. 

“How did you guessed it?”, he asks sarcastically, and you can’t help but sigh at his words.

“How did you?”, you know it isn’t a question that you need to ask, Finnick had been in this far longer than you had, and he knew practically everyone. 

Finnick thanks you silently as you give him the ice pack and the both of you sit down in silence, hearing the capitol still celebrating in the background. The two of you often got together after seeing clients, Finnick had helped you into the business when you had to start, and you would be forever grateful for his help. Beetee was nice but he didn’t manage to be there for you when you needed him, when Snow was selling you. Johanna had been helping you too, but she often needed some time alone after her appointments which you understood. Finnick had just always found a way to calm you down and you had gotten closer to him, missing him when you were in district three. 

“Things are going to change, aren’t they?”, you can’t help but whisper after a moment and Finnick looks at you with a soft smile.

“They are. We better get ready for it.”, he says, and you simply nod at his words, you know that you should get ready for something to arrive in response to Katniss’s rebellion.

“We better get some sleep, got a long road back tomorrow.”, Finnick says after a moment, and he puts the ice pack back into the freezer before turning back to you.

“Be careful. I’ll see you in six months.”, he says before kissing your forehead and holding you for a moment.

“See you in six months Finnick.”, you can’t help but look at him for a few seconds more, trying to remember every single bit of him before you don’t see him anymore.

“Don’t be a stranger!”, he yells over his shoulder as he leaves and you can’t help but laugh at his antics, knowing that Beetee had been woken up by his yelling.

Johanna arrives shortly after, and you spent the rest of the morning together before you all need to leave towards the train station to go back to your districts. 

--

District three is cold, even more now that snow has fallen, and you can’t seem to warm yourself up but that is probably because of the announcement tonight. 

Snow was going to give his annual speech before the games, and he would be revealing what the third quarter quell was going to be. You had a bad feeling; you didn’t know why but you just felt like you were going into a trap.

Beetee was in his own house with Wiress to watch the announcement and you were joining them a bit later, you just couldn’t get yourself to leave the frozen lake in front of you. The anthem started and you knew that was your cue to get back to the village, Beetee and Wiress were already sat down when you arrived, and President Snow was ready to talk.

The speech was long and quite boring if you were paying attention to it, but you weren’t you just wanted to know what was going to be in the envelope. Then finally he took the envelope and you felt breathless at the sight of it.

“For the Third Quarter Quell the tributes will be reaped from the existing pool of victors.”, the words rang through the room for a good minute before Wiress let out a deafening scream and left the house. Beetee looked like he wasn’t surprised, but you felt like the walls were closing in on you, there was one chance out of two that you were going back into that hellhole. 

Finnick. 

He was definitely going back into them; he was the Capitols favorite; they were definitely going to rig this to get him there. 

Johanna was the only female victor from district seven so she will also be going back into the arena. Most of you were going back in there and only one was going to get out of there.

“Hey, listen to me.”, Beetee’s voice got you out of your thinking and you look at him, frightened by the prospects in front of you.

“We can’t send Wiress in there, you know it I know it.”, you knew what he meant, Wiress was kind, but she would get crazy in there even more than she is right now. 

“If they call her name I’ll volunteer.”, you whisper, feeling like you were signing your death. Beetee looks at you with a sad smile, but you look at him determined.

“We better get back into shape.”, you tell him, and he nods quickly.

“You need to, I was never one for the fighting and such things. I’m going to try and figure out what could help us in there.”, the two of you talk a bit about what you need to do when Wiress enters the house hysteric and Beetee takes her to the kitchen to calm her down. 

The image of Snow is frozen, and you can’t help but feel the anger come up at the sight of him, he wanted a war he was going to get one. 

--

The training had been hard, watching what you were eating and getting back into shape in about a month. You wondered if the other victors were doing the same thing, probably well, but you tried not to think too much of them particularly Finnick.

The reaping day had arrived faster than you would’ve wanted it to come and here you were back on stage with a deadly silent Wiress. 

“Ladies first.”, your escort moves towards the bowl where only two names were in and starts dramatically moving her hand around before taking a slip of paper that was going to seal your fate.

“Wiress.”, she says after a moment, and you feel sick in your stomach as you see Wiress looking around stressed.

“I volunteer as tribute.”, you say loudly and Wiress turns to look at you, but you are already moving to stand at the place you stood 7 years ago. The district is murmuring, and the escort needs to talk multiple times before the crowds calm down.

“For the male tribute. Beetee.”, you knew it was going to be him but still it felt like a punch in the guts. Beetee had been your mentor and you were now going into the games with him.

The two of you get taken to the train station and as you board the train like every year you feel a sense of dread, not ready for what’s to come. 

The Capitol is ready for the games, having built everything back up from the ground just in time for their biggest Quarter Quell. The building is large, but you don’t have time to look at is closely before you are taken to get ready for the first ceremony.

It’s the same ritual every year and yet you can’t help but wince every time they take hair away, saying that your skin should be as smooth as possible. The make-up is still over the top but at least your dress is better than the last time you had to go into the chariot. Beetee is already there when you arrive, and you see Finnick in the distance talking with a sexier Katniss Everdeen then before. You feel a twinge of jealousy at his flirty smile but quickly dismiss it, there was no time for feelings. 

“Don’t you look delightful.”, Johanna says sarcastically, and you can’t help but snort at her words before turning around.

“Not as much as you, trying to fit in with the trees? Peeta could probably give you tips on camouflage.”, you can’t help but snigger at your words as you see her scowl, probably murdering her stylist in a hundred ways.

“Well, at least it shows off my assets.”, she says with a smirk, and you can’t help but agree with her, she always had a beautiful body.

“Haymitch not paying attention to you?”, you say with a smirk, and she quickly glares at you, but you ignore it to pay attention to the horses. 

“Couldn’t give a shit if the old man pays attention to it or not.”, she says haughtily but you can see the flicker in her eyes.

“Sure, I believe you.”, she shoots you one last glare before turning around towards an approaching Finnick and letting out a loud whistling.

“Guess we didn’t get the memo that this was a batting suit show.”, you can’t help but chuckle at her words and Finnick playfully glares at the two of you.

“Don’t be jealous that you can’t rock this, Jo.”, the latter snorts before putting him on the shoulder and leave us to go and talk to Beetee.

“Silver really is your color.”, he says after a moment of looking at you and you feel the blush on your cheeks at his words.

“I don’t know what to think of your outfit.”, Finnick laughs softly at your words before looking around to make sure no one is listening.

“Don’t forget the meeting tonight.”, his words are careful, and you quickly nod, reassuring him that you will be there for the meeting later that night.

The bell rings to signal everyone to get into their chariots, Finnick kisses your cheek quickly before leaving you there stunned. Beetee ushers you into the chariot and the show starts, you try to prepare yourself for the show and after a second or two you slip back into the role. 

--

The training center is brand new, and you can already see some victors training, trying to show off their skills while you pass them by, but you pay them no mind.

“You know if you were going to do a striptease you could have told me.”, you say at Johanna who was busy with her axe. The woman turns around with a wide grin and you look at her with a smirk.

“I’ll tell you next time.”, you can’t help but laugh at her words and after a quick chat you leave her to her training taking place at the gun stand. 

The training is as boring as it was years ago until Katniss starts using her bow and arrow and suddenly everyone is looking at her in awe. You don’t know how to feel with her, she has an emotional range even smaller than Johanna, and that is saying something. Plus, she doesn’t seem to want to work with anyone else, but Haymitch had said that he would be working on that.

“The girl on fire strikes again.”, Johanna says sarcastically next to you as you both watch the group of victors watching the girl.

“I don’t know why, but I don’t trust her for the moment. She is far too unpredictable.”, Johanna hums in agreement and the two of you leave towards the lunch space before the rest of the victors join you.

Beetee gets the news later that Katniss and Peeta are choosing to not get any allies for the moment but that she was interested in getting him and Madge as allies. Which means you have to try and get the two of them out of the blood bath. But first you have to concentrate on your training scores and interviews. 

“Look, I know this isn’t ideal, but that girl is stubborn, and she will not change her mind. So, Johanna and Blight will get partnered up with the two of you.”, Haymitch says while pointing towards Beetee and you before turning towards Finnick and Madge.

“Finnick will try to win her trust at the blood bath.”, Finnick looks at him confused and you feel the same way, Katniss had clearly shown that she wanted nothing to do with anyone else.

“I know that I am charming but how will I do that?”, Haymitch sighs for a moment before looking at all of us.

“Effie got into her head that we needed something gold to show that we are a team, I will get a bracelet that she will have clearly seen. I’ll give it to you the night before the games and you will show it to her before helping her. That way she knows she can trust you.”, Finnick nods in understanding before looking at you and smiling reassuringly.

“Now get ready for your interviews.”, all of us start to leave until you are left with Haymitch, Johanna and Finnick who seems to take his time.

“This is going to be a shit show.”, Johanna mutters under her breath and you can’t help but agree at her words.

“Listen just get them out of there and then we will try to be there in time.”, Johanna nods her head, but you can see the anger in her eyes.

“I need to get some air.”, she leaves quickly, and you smile at Haymitch and Finnick before joining her, needing to be with a person that seems to understand your angst. 

--

Peeta is a genius, but that was something you already knew. Throwing into the mix that there was a baby is a genius move but it won’t be enough to stop the games. Johanna had said goodnight before leaving and Finnick had hugged you tight after reading his poem to the entire nation. You didn’t know for who it was, you secretly hoped that it was for you, but you knew you couldn’t think of that right now.

This was your last night, and you couldn’t sleep, the thought of going back in there was just too much to find sleep. 

Beetee and you got ready together and you saw each other one last time before seeing each other in the arena. With the clothes on you try to get yourself into the best mental state but as you enter the tube you feel a familiar sense of panic.

However, the moment you see the arena you feel even more scared than you were ever before, this arena was something completely different and it was filled with victors. No one was safe.

--

The blood had fallen down on all of you and after hearing the canon of Blight in the distance you tried to keep going forward, a limping Beetee holding on to you while Johanna was leading the way. You had somehow managed to find the beach and trying to get the blood out of your eyes.

“Johanna! Jo-”, you hear your name after Johanna’s and turn around to see Finnick running towards you. 

You don’t have the time to realize that it is really him before he brings you into his arms, holding you tight. The two of you hold each other for a moment before he leaves the hug and turns towards Johanna. You take Beetee towards the water and starts washing him up while Johanna tells Finnick everything. 

There was something that was bothering you, something that you couldn’t quite catch about the arena that you were supposed to. Beetee was just looking towards the Cornucopia as if it had all the answers.

“Beetee, there is something that we aren’t catching, aren’t we?”, the older man looks towards you with a knowing smile before turning back to look at it.

When he is finally cleaned up you take him back where his cable is and where the rest of the group is talking. Katniss doesn’t look pleased to see us, but Peeta has a kind smile on his face as we arrive.

“So, how was your trip down the jungle?”, you quickly ask and Finnick gives you a forced smile that leaves you looking at him questioningly.

“We had some ups and downs, had a couple of mutts attacking us, a weird fog that burned our skin.”, Peeta said, and you nodded along trying to keep everything in mind.

“Did you stay in the same place all the time?”, Peeta looks at you weirdly for a moment before turning to look at the middle of the arena.

“Judging by the point of the cornucopia, we started right there but I think we left the woods right where we are now.”, so they had travelled, and a couple of things had happened one after the other.

“Did you travel clockwise?”, Johanna asks before adding left to right, but suddenly you get it.

“It’s a clock! Johanna!”, she looks at you for a moment confused but you turn towards the others.

“Around the cornucopia everything is divided into sections, right?”, the group nods along.

“What if the arena was also divided into sections and every time something happened it was at a precise hour?”, Beetee starts nodding along to what you are saying, and the others start to realize what you are saying.

“Holy shit.”, Johanna says and turns around to look at the arena in front of you.

Finnick is smiling proudly towards you, and you can’t help but smile shily back at him.

“How about we talk about every single thing we had in the arena and stock up on some weapons?”, the whole group agrees, and you leave the beach to get some weapons, trying to restock on what you need exactly. 

“Watch out!”, Johanna yells and you duck down to see a knife hitting the spot where your head was, Gloss is smirking behind you, but you just shoot him down. 

Johanna is fighting Cashmere and you catch sight of Enaboria and Brutus but before you can react the platform starts moving.

“What the hell?”, you can’t help but explain and suddenly it starts turning around. You hold on to the structure itself and you see Johanna holding Katniss but just as it starts turning even more you see Katniss being unable to hold any longer and fall into the water. That wasn’t good, you were supposed to save the girl.

The platform stops turning and all of you rush towards the girl getting out of the water. 

“Well, now we definitely don’t know where what is anymore.”, Beetee says, and you can’t help but sigh in defeat.

“Why don’t we go and get some water?”, Finnick suggests, and you can’t help but agree, feeling like your throat is like parchment paper. 

The jungle isn’t reassuring, and you are a bit unsure to let Finnick and Katniss go just the two of them, but Peeta asks you some questions about district three and you decide to stay to answer them. The four of you are talking until you see Katniss coming back looking like she was followed by something but as she arrives, she is unable to pass the wall. You see Finnick in the distance and you feel sick at the sight of his pale face, the stress and pain overwhelming him.

--

It feels like hours before they get to leave that place, Katniss is in Peeta’s arms, and you try to talk to a shaking Finnick.

“Hey, you are out of there.”, you whisper softly and Finnick nods slowly, his eyes firmly shut.

“I’ll go and get us some water.”, Katniss tries to stop Johanna, but the woman turns around with a hard look.

“Don’t worry there is no one left that I love, they can’t use anyone against me.”, she says before leaving to get water. You know you should probably go see her, but Finnick is holding you tightly, so you stay.

The six of you go back on the beach and you see Johanna and Katniss finally talking for once. 

“They seem to finally get along.”, you laugh a little at Finnick’s words before turning around to see him.

“How are you doing?”, he sighs as he looks at the water before turning back to you.

“Could have been better, I lost Mags.”, you feel sick at the words, and you quickly bring him into an embrace holding him tight in your arms. He hugs you back just as strongly and you stay that way for a moment.

“The birds.”, Finnick seems to hesitate as he stops the hug and turns back towards the water.

“They were screaming like people we knew and loved.”, Finnick says after a moment and you sigh, only the capitol would do something like this.

“I don’t think I can do all of this anymore.”, you whisper and Finnick looks at you surprised, but his eyes are full of understanding.

“I don’t think I can either.”, the two of you stay there in silence for a moment, watching the ocean.

“We’ve lost everything, ourselves, our families, then we had to go sell our bodies and if it wasn’t enough here we are again in the arena.”, Finnick sighs at your words and you shake your head.

“Sometimes I wish that I had died in that arena back then. Maybe it would’ve been far much easier.”, Finnick looks at you sadly and you can’t help but sigh as you think of your next words carefully.

“But then I remember that I never would’ve met you, and that would’ve been a shame.”, Finnick looks surprised at your words and the sudden spur of confidence that you had disappeared as you turned back towards the ocean.

“The birds, they were replicating your voice. Begging for me to help you.”, you turn around in surprise at his words and Finnick looks pained before chuckling under his breath.

“They knew exactly who to use to drive me crazy in there because-”, Finnick hesitates for a moment, but you hold his gaze, looking at his sea green eyes for a moment.

“Because I’ve loved you for years. I fell in love with you through the years more and more and I don’t think I could ever stop loving you.”, you feel breathless at his words, tears in your eyes at his words.

“And if you don’t feel the same way I understand I just-”, you don’t let him finish, you bring him into a loving kiss that portrays all the emotions you feel towards him and after a second or two Finnick kisses back. He holds you like you are the most precious thing on the planet, and you hold him as close as possible. 

The two of you only separate when you need air, but you are smiling at each other like idiots. 

“You know I’ve always wanted it all, saving everyone, a family, and all of that. But now I just want you.”, you whisper and Finnick smiles at you lovingly.

“Can’t get rid of me now.”

“You are stuck with me Finnick Odair.”, he laughs softly before bringing you into another kiss. You know that you are in an arena but still, you hold him close and let yourself bask in the attention and touch.

“Not that I’m not happy that the two of you got your head out of your asses but we have a plan.”, Johanna yells and the two of you break apart to look at her smirking face.

“We are never hearing the end of this are we?”, Finnick says while laughing and you join in his laughter.

“No, she will hold this above us for the rest of our lives.”, he laughs at your words before helping you get up to join the others.

Everything in this arena is hell and life after getting out of here will be even more difficult but as you feel Finnick’s hand in yours and you see the rest smiling and talking you know that there is something worth fighting for.