#eboni dixon

[august-and-clouds]

Good Luck, Studio Q&A Highlights (25 Oct 2022)

Highlights from Good Luck, Studio's livestreamed Q&A on 25 October 2022, 10pm. The full replay is up on @/wiltscreative on Instagram. Enjoy xx

Do catch Good Luck, Studio on tour if you're able to! They're currently playing in the Salisbury Playhouse (Salisbury) and afterwards going to the Yvonne Arnaud (Guildford) in November.

[theteasetwrites]

Merciless Beauty

Chapter 1: Your Eyes Slay Me Suddenly

❧ Pairing: Knight Daryl Dixon x Princess Reader ❧ Era: Medieval fantasy AU ❧ Pronouns: she/her ❧ Warnings: mentions of blood/gore and violence ❧ Word Count: 5.3k

❧ Before You Read...

❧ Glossary

❧ In This Chapter: Duke Richard of House Grimes and his knight, Sir Daryl, arrive at King Ezekiel's court, though they do not know why they've been invited. Meanwhile, things are not well in the kingdom of Alexandria as a new threat begins to terrorize its citizens. Despite this, the princess dreams of seeing the world outside the castle walls by which she is imprisoned. She meets someone who she thinks might be able to help.

❧ A/N: Well, here it is. The first part of this weird ass thing I'm writing. I realize that this is super cringey but do I care? Well, a little, but you know what, I am having so much fun writing this and learning about medieval stuff so I am happy with it. I will link a "Before You Read..." page so that you guys can get a little more background info about what I'm trying to do here. I know this is kind of a weird AU and stuff so I have some disclaimers in that link. I've also included a link to the Merciless Beauty Glossary, which lists definitions for some of the terminology I will be using throughout the series. I recommend having that document open as you read as you can use it to quickly refer to in case you come across a word you are not familiar with.

Beyond gentle slopes of overgrown emerald pastures rose tall, imposing battlements of limestone, with tiny silhouettes of guards poking out of each crenel. From this distance, they looked hardly menacing, but the king’s guards were diligent, and their prowess in battle was not to be underestimated. 

The duke raised the blue flag of Alexandria, signaling to the guards that they were no threat. In response, a guard reached over the wall to wave the same flag.

“They see us,” remarked the duke, pulling on the reins of his golden horse. “Here.” He handed back the worn piece of cerulean fabric to the knight who rode by his side. “Strange customs, but I don’t blame them.”

They moved upon their horses in a dignified trot, the knight’s ebony friesian stallion trained to mirror the movements of the steward’s palomino steed. 

“They should be afraid,” said the knight. “The world is a dangerous place. Can’t believe they’ve held out this long.”

The duke flashed him a knowing look, that almost seemed to curl into an amused crack of the lips. “Sir Daryl,” he said, “I’ve always admired your optimism.”

The knight adjusted his feet in the heavy iron stirrups. He’d never quite get used to his lord’s jests. “Sorry,” he spoke simply. A man of few words, Richard always said. 

“It’s all right, but you’d be advised to put on a cheerful face for the king. Joviality goes a long way with his type.”

“His type?”

“Unlike you, my friend, King Ezekiel is known for his… good humor.”

Daryl scoffed from the corner of his crooked smirk. “Thanks… What does the king want with you, anyway?”

Richard’s brows knit together in another amused expression of faux offense. “You think I’m not able to acquire a king’s favor? Careful, knight, you’re a free man now, but you could be downgraded to villein if necessary.”

Of course, the serious knight knew that such a threat was meant in good humor. Ten years of loyal servitude to the duke was more than enough reassurance. 

The men continued onward, their horses plodding through moors that seemed to stretch on forever. The castle couldn’t come closer for Sir Daryl. He was dreading it, the pomp and circumstance of it all. But then, he knew that when he became a knight. It wasn’t the typical story, in fact. He wasn’t of any kind of good birth, his parents being poor and rather unsuccessful merchants in some other kingdom he’d purposefully forgotten the name of. 

No, he wasn’t a nobleman’s son or a squire. He’d earned his title almost reluctantly, through his triumphs and battle prowess in the First War. That is, the war that preceded the Scourge. 

A knight’s duty was to protect a lord, of course. He’d managed a position as the protector of Duke Richard’s land, just outside of Alexandria. In exchange for his protection, the knight had a place to live, and not a bad place at all. It was better than any decrepit wooden shack he’d lived in before, and, as far as nobility went, the duke was not a bad man. In fact, he was a good man, and that was hard to come by in times like these. 

“But it’s odd,” Richard continued, “I don’t know what the king wants with me. I know he wants me to join his court, but I’ve heard he hasn’t invited anyone to court in ten years, since it broke out.” It, of course, was always understood as a reference to the plague that killed ordinary men with a gruesome fever, then brought them back as snarling, rotting walking dead men that feasted on the flesh of those who were unlucky enough to still be alive. 

No one knew where it came from, but many thought the curse was nothing short of the wrath of God Himself. It was the only explanation in a world completely devoid of comfort. Though the idea that a supposedly benevolent god bestowing such a pestilence upon his so-called beloved children was hardly comforting. In these times, people took what they could get. 

“Maybe he just wants your wonderful company,” Daryl replied, sure to speak with a sarcastic lilt to his gruff voice. 

“No, no,” Richard said. “It doesn’t make sense. Ezekiel and I have only spoken a few times… You know, there’s a princess.”

Oh, yes, everyone knew of the princess, of course, though no one had seen her in years. The gatehouse of that castle hadn’t opened in ten years. No one had come in, and no one had gone out. Until now, of course. 

“There’s always a princess,” Daryl huffed. “What does that have to do with anythin’?”

“Well, she’s got to be a woman now… I’m sure the king is looking to wed her to someone.”

Daryl flashed a suspicious glance at the curly-haired man, who returned the look with a steady shake of his head. 

“You think he wants you to court her?”

“I don’t know, but if what they say is true, the princess is the most beautiful woman in Alexandria. Some say beyond Alexandria, too.”

It was odd for a man of Richard’s age and status to be unmarried. His wife had died six years ago in childbirth, along with the child. It wasn’t an uncommon occurrence, but it was a great tragedy in the duke’s life. The knight couldn’t see him remarrying at all after that, but if the king was going to offer his daughter to him, he would be a fool not to accept. 

“Women with that kind of beauty are hard to come by,” continued Richard. “And royal, too. Hell, the princess is the king’s only child. That means… I could become king when he dies.”

“Gettin’ ahead of yourself,” chided Daryl. “We’re not even at the gatehouse yet.”

“Welcome, my friends!”

The king extended his arms wide, about as wide as the grin upon his countenance. He crossed the great hall, the steps of his pointed poulaines echoing off the grand high ceilings. The king’s hand clasped jovially upon the duke’s shoulder, but the gesture quickly turned into a hearty embrace. 

“It’s good to see you,” said the king. “It’s been too long, Richard.”

“It has.” 

The duke raised his eyes to gaze upon the magnificence of the hall. Though the exterior of the castle may have appeared quite imposing, the great hall was warm, welcoming, even. Elaborate arrangements of strong wooden arches upheld the roof, complete with intricately designed corbels to support them. Draped from the high stone walls were long blue banners bearing the royal family’s crest, no doubt made from the finest threads. Tapestries depicting mythical creatures and romantic scenes of knights going to battle or courting ladies were on full display, too. The hall was illuminated by the gilded light of what seemed to be a hundred or so candles, some upon sconces, others upon tables and in iron chain chandeliers. The pungent aroma of honey and elderflower tickled at the uninitiated noses of the two travelers, and, sure enough, in the king’s hand was a fine pewter goblet, which no doubt must’ve been brimming with a particularly pungent, sweet smelling mead.

“Come!” exclaimed the king. “Have a drink! This is cause for celebration.”

The loud bravado in the king’s voice must’ve alerted the court as finely dressed nobles began to pour in from the arches and the upstairs landing. As the duke and his knight followed the king to his banquet table, just in front of his imposing bronze throne, the court gathered in greater globs. Murmurs began to permeate the great hall, and the knight could just feel an army of eyes laid upon him and his lord. It wasn’t a feeling he reveled in. 

“We’ve already had our feast,” said the king, sitting himself comfortably at the head of the long wooden table. “But I can have a servant bring you something. Only the finest dining here.”

“We’ve already eaten. Just a drink is fine for now, your majesty,” said the duke. As he sat, the loyal knight followed. 

Daryl felt bear, having been made rid of his greatsword and his cloak by the guards at the entrance to the keep. There were few places outside of his home that he felt safe enough without either. 

“Ah, libations!” exclaimed the emphatic king. He held his goblet high for emphasis. “This is the finest mead in Alexandria and her surrounding kingdoms. It comes from a monastery, I’ve been told. They raise bees there, isn’t that fantastic?”

The knight and the duke exchanged a glance. They had no idea what to make of the king. He was so full of merry, the likes of which they hadn’t seen in years. Perhaps it was the mead, but Richard knew the man was jovial. Still, it was a kind of shock.

The servants arrived with intricately detailed pewter pitchers full of the honey wine, filling their goblets to the brim. The excesses of wealth and royalty were foreign to the knight. Duke Richard was wealthy, yes, but not like this.

“So,” spoke the king, “I trust your journey through my kingdom was pleasant? No dead ones crossed your path?”

“Not at all,” said Richard. “Your kingdom is quite safe, it seems. Those tall walls will keep anything out.”

“Hm, yes,” agreed Ezekiel. “But you can never be too careful. No one’s left the castle in ten years, I’m sure you know. It’s better to be safe.”

That reminded the duke. He intended to ask why the king had invited him to court, but before he could speak again, the boisterous king looked to Sir Daryl with an enthusiastic curiosity. 

“This is your knight?”

“Yes, this is Sir Daryl.”

The king settled back in his chair, stroking the gray corkscrew hairs upon his noble chin. “Ah, I’ve heard of your gallantry in battle, how you earned your title. My father knighted you, didn’t he?”

Daryl looked to his steward, wordlessly asking for permission to speak. Richard nodded. “Yes, your majesty,” spoke the knight. His voice was raspier than usual, having been silent for so long since arriving at the castle. After all, what could a knight possibly have to say? His only duty was to protect his lord, as a vassal. He was of lower rank than Richard, and, though he never much cared for the details of hierarchy, it was in his best interest to know his place.

“How grand! Well, gentlemen, I do hope you find this court to be a fount of merriment in these dark times.” He gestured to the surrounding great hall, and the people who watched with bated breath as they clung to the monarch’s every word. “Everyone has been so eager to meet you. This is a momentous occasion. A toast!” The king stood to his feet, raising his goblet high. Others followed suit, of course, as the two newcomers sat overwhelmed at the king’s table. “To Duke Richard and his knight, the first additions to court in a decade of strife.”

“Huzzah!” 

With a long drink of his mead, the king met the duke with wide eyes, then removed the cup in a near panic, though it was a jolly panic. “I almost forgot! How could I forget? My daughter, (Y/N). Elizabeth! Fetch my daughter!”

“Yes, your majesty.” The mousy young maid with flaxen hair frantically ascended the staircase with great haste. 

Richard straightened in his seat, clearing his throat. The knight could tell he was nervous, but he couldn’t understand why. A princess was hardly anything to be nervous about. It was the king the duke needed to impress, he thought. 

“Minstrels!” the king exclaimed, gesturing towards the troupe of musicians across the great hall. There were three, each dressed in colorful garb and feathered caps. One held a lute, the other, a flute, and the third, a tambour. “Play something for the princess’s entrance. Something… delicate, but dignified, like her.”

“Yes, your majesty!” one of the minstrels replied.

Yes, your majesty, seemed a rather common phrase around here.

Then, from atop the stairs appeared a young woman.

You heard the musicians begin to play their little tune—a soft, simple tune that seemed to evolve with each step you took. Each step was calculated and precise, partly because that was how you were trained to walk, and partly because you were careful not to trip over your gown. Your father had instructed you to wear your best clothes the last few days, though you weren’t sure why. You’d heard of a duke coming to court, but it was hardly of any interest to you. Why should you care? Why should you welcome an outsider when you haven’t been able to leave this dusty old castle in years? 

“That must be the duke,” whispered Margaret. She followed your every move, as a lady-in-waiting was supposed to. 

“He’s handsome,” Michonne whispered back. 

You shushed the ladies out of the corner of your mouth. They were much too excited for their own good, much more excited than you. 

At the base of the staircase, your father held his hand out to you, beaming at your beauty. Tonight, you wore your favorite champagne-colored surcote, made from a heavy silk, with long, flowing sleeves that split at the elbow to reveal the pure white lace-front gown. The décolletage was modest, but deep enough to reveal just the beginning of your cleavage, formed by the tight lacing that held your chest in place. It wasn’t quite in vogue these days, but then again, nothing was in vogue these days. 

As you took his hand, you realized that the duke and his knight were standing for you. Of course they were, but their new faces caught you off guard. You knew everyone in court so well, it was strange to see two strangers standing for you.

Your father lifted his hand, in turn raising your arm to show you off like a prized mare. With knitted brows and a quivering lip, you flashed him a confused expression. He’d never introduced you like this before, but then again, he never introduced you to anyone before. 

“Gentlemen,” he said, turning his attention to the duke and his knight. “I present to you my daughter, (Y/N), Crown Princess of Alexandria.”

The men each bent over to bow before you, and you took in their appearance with great interest. It wasn’t often you had new faces to study.

The duke was well-dressed, wearing a damask scarlet doublet that must’ve cost a fortune, with tight-fitting wool hose to accentuate his lean legs. It would be remiss not to note how handsome he was, with a head of lush curls and a short, well-trimmed beard to frame his salmon-colored lips. If it weren’t for his title and his clothing, you could tell the man was a noble just by looking at the shape of his nose, aquiline and strong. Yes, he was handsome.

But just beyond his shoulder, your eyes were pulled like magnets to the knight. His clothes were more muted, but made from a fine material. A plain black wool tabard draped over his broad shoulders, his waist cinched with a fine leather belt, strapped to which was a lone misericorde, the dagger which you knew from your studies to be what knights used to deliver the final death blow to an enemy. The sharp tip sent a shiver down your spine as you wondered briefly if he’d ever had to use it. 

Though his coloring was similar to the duke, both having hair of brown and eyes of blue, their similarities ended there. The knight had a much more tired face, world-weary. It was difficult to see clearly, given the shadows created by the long wavy locks of hair shrouding his visage, but he appeared to have a reddened scar trailing from his brow to his cheek, crossing over his left eye. 

From what you could see, he looked nothing like any man you’d seen before. He was weather-worn and hardened by the world, at least, that’s how he looked. He must’ve seen such terrible things, you thought. In the fine lines of his face, you could begin to make out an image of the world outside. Here was a man who must’ve known its ins and outs like the back of his hand, must’ve been so brave to have survived this long outside the walls, fighting the Dead.

Though your face was softened by curiosity, the knight’s was stoic and cold. He seemed somehow both distant and alert, aware of his surroundings despite his reluctance to be surrounded by them. The duke’s kind face was much more welcoming, but, for a moment, you were held hostage by the knight’s narrowed, serious gaze. 

“Your highness,” said the duke. “I am Duke Richard of House Grimes.” He turned to gesture towards the knight. “And this is my knight, Sir Daryl.”

A curious name for a curious face, you thought. Still, you tried to maintain your focus on the nobleman.

“It is an honor to meet you, milord,” you replied. “The court has been anticipating your arrival.” Though I haven’t. “Oh, these are my ladies-in-waiting, Lady Margaret and Lady Michonne.”

You brought the ladies forth, each of them curtseying before the duke. It gave you a moment to look upon the knight again. 

“Pleasure,” the duke said to your ladies. “And… may I say, princess, you’re just as radiant as they say.”

You looked wide-eyed at the king, who smiled bigger than he had in years. The blush that blossomed upon your cheeks was not one of flattery, necessarily, but slight embarrassment. “Oh… They speak of me?”

“Yes. Common people often praise your beauty. Many would sell their land or their livestock for the chance just to get a glimpse of you. I must admit, it would be worth it.”

A whirlpool of emotions formed in your belly, mostly confusion. You’d never been complimented quite like this before. “Well… Thank you, milord. That’s very kind of you to say.” Swallowing hard, you turned to your father, who seemingly expected you to return with an equal compliment. “Father, I’m going to retire to my chambers for the evening.” You turned back to face the duke. “Goodnight, Richard. I hope your stay in court is pleasant.”

Your father’s smile faded with your announcement, but he nodded as he tried to offset his disappointment. “Of course, my dear. Goodnight.”

At length, you sat before your vanity to remove your jewels while Elizabeth prepared your bed as usual. She hummed to herself the same little tune the musicians had played earlier for your grand entrance to meet the duke. Removing your translucent veil, you got to work undoing the circles of elaborate braids and removing the genuine pearls laced throughout when a rapping came at the door of your chamber.

“My dear, it’s me,” said your father. “May I come in?”

Oh, for pity's sake. 

You turned on your stool to gesture towards Elizabeth. “Let him in,” you said. “I can undress myself tonight. Goodnight, Beth.”

The young girl nodded before opening the door for the king. He thanked her as she left, while you straightened up to no doubt receive a tongue lashing for your less than friendly reception of the newcomers. 

“(Y/N),” he sighed, sitting at the foot of your bed as he adjusted his gold trimmed velvet robe. “My dear… I must say I am a bit disappointed that you didn’t sit and speak with the duke tonight.”

“Well, father, I… It’s hard to be excited about these new guests when I myself haven’t been outside the castle since I was a girl. And now, all of a sudden, you’re letting in some nobleman and his knight? Why?”

To the king, it was obvious, but to you, it was totally unclear. There was much about the world you still didn’t know, and though you were knowledgeable, on account of your royal tutoring, you were still naïve in many ways. 

Your father stood as he sighed, piecing a long, gray-black dread lock behind his ear. “Well, I was hoping…” He shook his head, then crossed over to you, taking your hands in his as he looked at you with that adventurous sparkle in his eyes. “You liked Richard, didn’t you? He was charming?”

You were caught off guard by the question, but you shrugged and nodded with a half-smile. “Why, yes. He’s charming.”

“And handsome?”

“Well… Of course. He’s very handsome, any woman would think so.”

“So…”

“Father, are you… trying to ask me if I want to court the duke?”

“Yes,” he laughed in relief that you caught on without him having to explain. “Richard is a good man, one of the best nobles left. He’s wealthy, too. Though I was always hoping for a political marriage for you, as long as the man is at least a noble and a suitable husband, I think this kind of match would be good for you. In fact, we could move Richard here, that way you never have to leave the castle, and—”

“Father!” you exclaimed, shocked by how excited he was at this idea without even hearing your thoughts, of which you had many. “I’m not ready to marry!”

“But you’re twenty-six, my dear.”

Standing to your feet, you shook your head and pulled out the remaining braids in your hair. “I’m just not ready. The duke is… He’s perfect, but I’m not interested. I can’t explain it, it’s just not a match.”

“But you’ve hardly spoken to him!”

You didn’t need to speak to him to know, you just knew. It was impossible to explain. All you knew was that it wouldn’t work, and that marriage was simply not in your near future. You had other priorities, other… curiosities. Love was not one of them, except in your fairytales and love poems. You had a hard time believing love could be any better than that. 

“Father, please. I’ve told you how I felt, and I’m sorry if you brought this man here just for me, but I can’t force myself to try with someone who doesn’t interest me in that way.”

He crossed the room with a soft step, his face morphing into an understanding smile. “I know, darling. I’m sorry to have upset you. I would never force you into a marriage that didn’t please you, I just… I just want you to marry a good man. Well, so long as he’s a noble, at least.”

Your father was never a traditional king, but he still insisted on some things, and one of them was that you would marry well. Well meaning high status. Some things were sacred.

“But if the duke isn’t to your liking,” he continued, “I won’t force it.”

“Thank you, father. That means a great deal to me.”

“Good.” His hand cradled the back of your head to bring you forward, allowing him to bestow a fatherly kiss upon your forehead. “Someday, you will make a great queen. A better ruler than me, I am sure.”

“Father,” you laughed. “You are a great ruler. The people love you. Everyone loves you. That’s what matters.”

“My sweet girl,” he said, now holding your cheeks to admire your pretty, delicate features. You were truly a princess through and through. “You’re the most precious jewel in my crown.” An old phrase he’d said to you since you were a little girl. The man was so sentimental, a trait you admired greatly. “I bid you goodnight.”

As he headed back towards the door, you began to think freely, with your mind returning to the knight beside Richard. Daryl, you recalled his name. You’d never heard a name like that, nor seen a face like that. 

“Father?” you called out to him just before he could leave.

“Yes, my dear?”

Looking down, you toyed with the fine silk fabric of your surcote, prefering to study the rich champagne color than to face your father as you asked, “Tell me about Richard’s knight.”

The king’s brows furrowed, his head tilting to the side in a display of curiosity and confusion. “The knight? Sir… Daryl, I believe?”

“Mhm,” you mumbled, still nervously rubbing the garment between your fingers. To clarify, you lifted your gaze to your father. “Well, I mean… I was just curious. You know how I have a fascination with knights and things of that sort.”

The king shook his head with a warm, deep chuckle. “Oh, daughter. Well, I don’t know much of him, other than that he is brave, loyal… He was knighted by your grandfather, you know. Just a few years before he passed.”

“And he is of noble birth, like Richard?”

“No, no,” he replied. “Not at all. His parents were lower gentry. He earned his title in battle, a rare feat for a knight, as you know.”

Indeed, most knights were born to nobility, becoming pageboys before the age of ten, then promoting to squire in their youth. After years of studying under an established knight, the squire would then undergo the dubbing ceremony. He’d learn the code of chivalry, and he’d pledge allegiance to a lord, offering military services in exchange for a fief, or land. It seemed that Sir Daryl must’ve met many of these requirements, but he certainly wasn’t a noble. 

“That’s quite interesting,” you said. “I knew he seemed different. Well, goodnight, father.”

“Goodnight, my sweet.”

When the candlelight was extinguished, and the only sound left in the dead of night was that of the crickets chirping and the toads ribbeting, you were left in solitude with your thoughts. These thoughts were not new, of course. They were visions of the outside world, beyond the castle walls and the walls of the kingdom. They hung somewhere between consciousness and dream, but your thoughts were intentional, purposeful. You thought of the trees, the flowers, the little streams. You thought of the deer and the birds and the butterflies, every beautiful thing you hadn’t seen since the Scourge began. That plague had taken everything from you, your mother, your freedom, your peace of mind.

Others had it much worse, of course, and you knew that, but that didn’t ease your heartache. There were many nights you cried yourself to sleep, hoping your father couldn’t hear, for he did what he did for good reason—he was terrified of losing you, his only child. 

But tonight, you didn’t cry at all. In fact, there was a strange sense of hope nestled in your heart, something you hadn’t felt in so many years. At first, you couldn’t put your finger on it, but as your head and your heart began to work together, you realized—it was the knight.

Not only was the knight a new addition to the court, but he was brave, a fighter. He would surely help you escape. 

Escape was something you’d thought of before, but now, it seemed within reach. Of course, you wouldn’t leave forever, just a day. Just a day outside the walls, breathing in the fresh air, feeling the soft grass underfoot. There wasn’t anyone else. The guards all pledged such strong allegiance to the king, they would surely inform him of your plans if you asked. The others weren’t skilled in combat, couldn’t keep you safe. No, the only solution was the knight. He would help you. Surely, he would help you. 

In your alone time, you often walked the corridors of the keep, as there wasn’t much else to do when you weren’t occupied by your books or your needlepoint. Today was no different, though the court was still excitable over the arrival of the duke last night. 

You tried to ignore that, instead keeping yourself in your thoughts as you wandered aimlessly, until your father’s panicked voice resounded from inside his cabinet, adjacent to his bedchamber. What you made out were the words, “How could this happen?!”

Curiosity overcame you, your boredom having been relentless. You looked around the corridor for a moment, ensuring no passersby would see you. The guards were at the other end of the hall, facing away from you. If you were quiet, no one would see you pressing your ear to the ornate wooden door. 

“Constable,” your father huffed, “are you quite sure?”

“Yes, your majesty,” spoke Lord Constable Aaron. “There have been reports of mysterious cloaked knights extorting citizens throughout the kingdom. They demand crops, livestock, women… They threaten murder if they don’t get their way, my liege. We had some isolated incidents in the past, but this past month, they’ve been happening more frequently.”

“And you didn’t think it of import to tell the king?” questioned Lord Chancellor Gerald. “There hasn’t been crime like this in Alexandria since we closed our gates.”

“I didn’t want to worry his majesty with incidents of petty crime,” responded the constable. “But now… Well, a boy has been killed.”

“What?!” your father exclaimed. “Who?”

“Thomas Webb, son of the innkeeper, James. He was only sixteen… I’ve been told it was…”

The constable trailed off, his voice becoming shaky as he spoke. 

“Speak, Aaron,” demanded the king. 

The constable cleared his throat, then lowered his voice. You pressed your ear harder against the wood of the door, so much so that you feared a splinter. 

“Apologies, milord… It—it was a gruesome death, the likes of which we haven’t seen in Alexandria since the Dead breached our walls. But this wasn’t a dead man, it was a knight in black armor, their leader. We could hardly identify the boy, his head was… Well, your majesty, his head was obliterated.”

A small gasp escaped your lips, your hand quickly reaching up to catch it before it alerted the guards. 

“By God,” uttered the chancellor. “What kind of knight are we dealing with?”

“A knight wouldn’t commit a crime like that,” spoke an at first unfamiliar voice, but you quickly identified it as that of the duke. “No, not any kind of true knight. A dishonored one, maybe.”

“It’s of no concern to me what this man’s status is,” said the king. “All I care about is protecting my people. Constable, I need strengthened security across the kingdom, especially in the merchant district. Something tells me these marauders are targeting the middle and lower classes. I also want tighter security at the outer curtain. No one should be entering or leaving the kingdom without my permission, and if they’re entering clandestinely, there must be a blind spot or a chink in our armor. If the living can get in, the Dead can, too. Get it sorted. There will be no more of this… obliterating in my kingdom, understand?”

“Absolutely, your majesty. We’ll double up our defenses. This won’t happen again… Oh, and… There is one more thing.”

“What is it?” asked the king. “I have very little time for idle conversation today, constable.”

“Yes, yes, of course, your majesty, but… Well, this is quite important. The knight in black armor left a message with one of our guards, just before he… chopped off his arm.” 

Your lips trembled with fear. How could a man do such a thing? And this man was in your kingdom, hurting your people. It was horrifying. That poor guard, you thought. That poor boy… Oh, that poor, poor boy. 

“Good lord!” huffed the king. “All right, what is it?”

The constable cleared his throat as you heard a crinkling of paper. “Your majesty,” the constable read from the letter, “let this be a first warning, an introduction of sorts. My name is Sir Negan of House Smith, my people are the Saviors. If you cooperate with me, there will be no more bloodshed, but if you go against me, I will plunder and pillage this pretty kingdom until the streets are soaked red. I ask, or demand, rather, for one thing: your daughter.”

~

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Series Masterlist Next Chapter ➳

[walker-bait-1973]

8 Years Part One

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A Daryl Dixon/ Sybil Tremont Fanfiction (Daryl x OC)

Background information: It’s assumed the reader knows the world of TWD. This Fanfic takes place after Alexandria, Hilltop, Oceanside, and the Kingdom are established and at the height of success. Carl is dead. The communities are bound by a doctrine created by Michonne. Rick is presumed dead. Daryl and Michonne never lost hope and searched for several years for Rick without luck. Daryl had a short relationship with Leah. The Saviors disbanded with Negan in a jail cell in Alexandria. The Whisperers have been defeated, and Lydia is a valued member of the Hilltop homestead.

18+

Daryl x OC (Female)

Warnings: Violence, Alcohol, Slow Burn, Fluff, Smut

Part Two

Master List

Chapter 1: Caramel

The summer of 1990 was a record-breaker for heat. The sun shone brighter than ever by early June. While people around Atlanta were finding ways to keep cool, Merle Dixon along with his younger brother Daryl, and their motorcycle gang pulled into the local 7-11 to get some ice-cold brews. They were headed to Pine Lake for a party. Merle and two of his buddies went inside for drinks.

“Hey Merle, get some snacks too!” Daryl yelled after him. Merle shot him the middle finger, laughed, and went inside. Daryl lit up a cigarette. As he listened to the group talking and laughing, a small group of young ladies walked past them. Daryl’s attention averted to have a gander at these five women. One, in particular, stood out to him. She was a curvaceous woman, with an ample chest, wide hips, and thick thighs. Her long ebony curls bounced in a neat ponytail as she walked in flip-flops with painted red toenails. She was wearing a pair of cut-off blue jean shorts that hugged her apple-shaped bottom. Her skin was a delicious shade of caramel, tanned from the hot sun no doubt. Her red halter top complimented the shade well. As she passed him he said, “Hot day.”

She nodded curtly, eyeing the pale-skinned man in the grey tank top as her friends giggled and they went into the store. She stopped for a moment to look over her shoulder at him, “You better watch yourself, you’re gonna get burned.”

He smiled slyly and playfully smacked Terry in the chest as the automatic door swung shut, “damn!”

“She’s outta your league, Daryl.” Terry chuckled as Daryl rubbed his dirty blonde goatee. He was already plotting what to do next.

“Naw… she ain’t.” He took a breath before heading into the convenience store himself. Terry looked at Buck and sniggered.

Inside, Daryl could hear Merle’s loud voice back by the beer cooler laughing with Sam and Joe. He casually walked down one aisle with low shelves, spying on the girls over by the Slurpee machine comparing flavors. He paused by the snacks and perused the various chips, raising his eyes often to watch the girls as they laughed and poured themselves the thick icy beverage. He glanced back praying his brother wouldn’t come up while he made his move. He walked to the girls and said, “Hey, ‘s y’ flavor?”

“Caramel” sucked slowly on her straw before saying, “Cherry.” A pair of large green eyes framed with long lashes lifted to look at him. He felt his insides turn to mush, as a boyish grin crossed his face.

He followed her outside and as she started walking away with her friends he called out, “’s yer name?”

Looking over her rounded shoulder, “Sybil.”

From that moment on, he was hooked.

Chapter 2: The Receipt

Alexandria

Daryl rolled over, restless in his bed. He heard footsteps thudding on the basement ceiling. Judith and RJ must be over for breakfast. He sat up, Dog instantly licking his face.

“Down, boy…” he grunted. Dog jumped to the floor and waited patiently by the back door for his morning walk. Daryl shirked into some clothes, donned his boots, and opened the door. Dog ran out into the dew-covered grass behind the house to do his duties. Daryl whistled,  beckoning for Dog to join him as he walked down the road toward the Alexandria main gate.

Rosita and Aaron were up on the platform, keeping watch for possible trouble.

“Good Morning, Daryl!” Aaron called out. Daryl waved quietly and moved along, toward the community center where many of the residents chose to eat together. He walked in, nabbed a fresh loaf of bread, and returned to Carol’s house.

“Good morning Uncle Daryl!” Judith exclaimed running to him as soon as he closed the door.

“Mornin’ Jude,” he answered as she hugged him around the waist. He put his arms around her shoulders and hugged her in return. RJ joined them and gave Daryl a high five.

“Come on, Judith… RJ… let’s get you fed before classes.”

“Y’ heard Aunt Carol… c’mon and get to the table.” Daryl grabbed a knife and started cutting up the bread for toast. Carol served the kids fresh scrambled eggs, apple slices, and orange juice. They munched on the yummy food while Carol poured Daryl his first cup of coffee. He leaned against the counter sipping it, his mind wandering.

He went weeks before he saw Sybil again. This time, she was at a grocery store as a cashier. What luck Daryl had! He spotted her immediately as he carried the armloads of food to the register. He decided to go through her line, affording him a great opportunity to talk to her again.

“Have a nice day,” she was saying as she handed the receipt over to the customer in front of him.

He scratched the back of his neck as she started cashing him out, “find everything you were looking for?” She lifted her eyes, a smile on her face, dimples adorning her cheeks.

“Naw…”

“No? Is there something I can help you with?”

“Sure. Y’all could give me y’ number.”

She chuckled, “You’re mighty confident.”

“’ Member me?”

“Not sure that I do,” she replied, toying with him. There was no way Sybil could forget those deep-set blue eyes and that handsome face.

“I can make it so y’ never f’get me again.” He leaned on the conveyor belt, stopping it.

“Oh yeah?”

There was a line forming behind him.

“You’re right I’ll never forget you if you get me fired,” she feigned being cross.

“Give me y’ number an’ I’ll pay m’ total.”

“I don’t even know your name,” she said, “that will be twenty-eighty-seven.”

He pulled out thirty bucks. When she returned his change, she handed him his receipt.

“Daryl. M’ name’s Daryl.”

She smirked, “have a nice day, Daryl.”

He grabbed his bag, frowning. As he put his change in his pocket, he realized she’d written a phone number on the back of the receipt.

She winked at him and started on her next customer’s order.

“… Daryl?”

Daryl looked up from his mug at Carol, “Huh?”

“I asked what your plans were for today. Where were you just now?”

He shook his head, “Nowhere. ‘M thinkin’ of takin’ a ride t’ Hilltop.”

“Yeah? If so, could you take a few things for me? I made Maggie some curtains for Hershel’s room in the Barrington House, and there are some parts that Eugene needs for the radio.”

He shrugged, “Yeah, get t’ stuff t’gether n’ I’ll take it w’ me.”

He took a plate of eggs and set it on the floor for Dog.  Dog chowed down while Daryl munched on a piece of toast.

“Alright, go get washed up and Uncle Daryl will walk you to school on his way out.”

“Okay,” Judith looked at her younger brother, “get your stuff.”

Once Daryl delivered the kids to class, he and Dog ambled to the gate where Carol was waiting for him. He shouldered his pack and strapped the box of things to take down on his motorcycle. Carol squeezed his shoulder, “You have a safe trip, okay? Tell everyone I say hello. Oh, and I nearly forgot. Judith wrote Hershel a letter.” She slipped it into his hand. Daryl smiled.

“I’ll make sure he gets it.”

Chapter 3: Lending A Hand

Hilltop

Daryl sped into Hilltop, Dog in tow, and parked close to the barn. He got several waves from various community members and was warmly greeted by Maggie. She wrapped her arms around him for a big hug, “Been a long time, stranger,” she remarked, squeezed his shoulder, and knelt to pet Dog.

“Too long,” Daryl confessed, nodding in acknowledgment toward Jesus and Tara.

“Damn right it’s been too long,” Tara piped up, “tell us, what’s everyone been up to?”

“Y’ know,” he shrugged, “same old. Ain’t much t’ tell.” He patted his jacket pocket, “Got somethin’ f’ Hershel though.” He pulled out the envelope and handed it to Maggie.

“A letter from Judith?” She ran her fingers over the front of the makeshift envelope.

“Mhm. Seems they’re becomin’ pretty good pen pals,” He smiled.

“They are. It won’t be long, they’ll be on the radio talkin’. I think Hershel has a lil’ crush,” Maggie’s toothy grin spread.

Daryl grunted, “I got stuff f’ Eugene too.”

“He’s up in the attic monkeying with things, I’ll run it up to him,” Jesus said knowing full well how Eugene liked to talk people’s ears off, and Daryl was more of a quiet man.

“Thanks f’ that,” Daryl remarked looking around, “Where’s Connie?”

“She’s at Oceanside with Kelly and Luke. I know you’re disappointed,” Maggie teased.

“I’ll catch her soon ‘nough.” He shrugged, “’m here now. What can I do t’ help out?”

“We have a few cabins to build. Wanna help with that?”

“Sure,” he nodded, walking with Maggie to the area of expansion past the orchards. He was greeted by Alden, one of the blacksmiths, who was delivering a box of nails.

“Daryl, good to have you here,” Alden smiled, handing him a hammer.

“Jus’ tell me where t’ go.”

He pointed to one of the cabins already in progress. Daryl joined in immediately. As he worked with the others, it wasn’t long before he was sawing logs, roofing, and throwing himself into the job at hand. Daryl didn’t mind hard work. When the frame of the cabin was finished, he felt a sense of accomplishment and moved onto the exterior walls.

When he paused to take a cigarette break, he spotted Lydia making her way over to him. She had a wide smile on her face, her long black hair hanging loosely around her shoulders. Elijah was holding her hand, the same goofy smile on his face. Daryl smirked. Young’uns.

“We brought you some water. You’ve been working hard,” Lydia handed him a canteen.

“Thanks,” he said, swishing the cold liquid in his mouth. Felt cool and refreshing on this warm Spring day.

“We were going to head to Alexandria for a visit, but now seeing as you’re here, we won’t leave until you do. If you don’t mind.”

“Naw could use the company,” he answered, patting her shoulder.

“Great! I miss everyone. And I wanted to see Negan.”

Frowning, “What y’ need t’ see him for? He ain’t no good, Lydia.”

“I know his past, and I know how you feel about him-”

“You don’t know all ‘bout that sumbitch.” Daryl never talked with anyone in his family about what transpired when he was held prisoner at Negan’s compound, Sanctuary. Tortured, starved, stripped down for humiliation…

“I suppose I don’t. But he stuck up for me when those kids attacked me. If it weren’t for him, I might not be here. I don’t need you to understand it, but I won’t sneak around to talk to him.”

Daryl had to give her credit for being so upfront about her connection with Negan. It was true that he helped her one night when three members of Alexandria ganged up on her. It was also true that one ended up dead at Negan’s hand. It was an accident, but with Negan’s history, it nearly got him lynched.

“I don’t understand it, an’ I don’t like it. But I ain’t gonna stop ya.”

That’s one thing Lydia admired about Daryl – he didn’t treat her like a little girl. He talked to her as if she was an adult, and she respected that. Too many people tried to treat her like a child. She was seventeen, and beyond her years in many ways.

Daryl tossed her back the canteen, “Back t’ work. Y’ know, y’all could help out. Get done a lot faster.”

“I can swing a hammer,” Elijah smirked, “I’m gonna help out.”

“I’ve got some other things to do, but then I’ll be back over.” Lydia kissed Elijah before leaving. Elijah blushed and cleared his throat.

“C’mon,” Daryl spoke up, “ ‘s getcha that hammer.”

Chapter 4: First Date

(One Week Later) Daryl drove up to the house where Sybil lived. Already outside, she’d been waiting for him. She laughed when he turned off his motorcycle.

“I just knew you were going to show up on that thing.”

Daryl looked down at the bike, “’s my ride.”

She nodded, “Oh yeah… it’s your ride alright. I’ve never been on one before.”

“Well, y’all will have the time o’ yer life then.” He smiled. She walked over in a pair of tight-fitted jeans, her hips swaying practically mesmerizing him.

“Interesting way to start a first date,” She commented, sliding on behind him. Her hands went to his waist, clutching tight as he kicked the motor on and took off down the street.

“Shouldn’t we have helmets?” She called into the wind. Daryl swung the bike onto the main road.

“Naw… yer fine.”

She laughed, “As I said before, you’re mighty confident.”

Daryl enjoyed the feeling of her behind him, her hands tightening their grip. He lowered his left hand and pulled one of her arms around him tighter.

“You’re bold,” she remarked, but slid her other arm around, locking her hands in front of his stomach.

“So are ya.”

They drove along Pine Lake, one of the first places he could think of to take her. When they got off the bike she said, “You’ve got me alone, in the woods. Should I be afraid?”

“I didn’t keep y’ alive on that bike only t’ kill ya in the woods,” He smirked. She laughed. It was music to his ears; so light and genuine.

“Been t’ Pine Lake ‘fore?”

“Oh yes. This is the main hang-out spot. You?”

“Come here a bit.”

They walked a trail along the east side of the lake, quiet at first.

“So that gang you’re with…” she finally cut the silence as she studied the trees, “been with them long?”

Daryl shrugged, “yeah. They’re kinda family. My big brother Merle started hangin’ out w’ some guys an’ it went from there.”

“How many of you are there?”

“Just one,” he teased.

“Ha ha,” she rolled her eyes.

“’ Bout twenty or so. Why?”

She shrugged, “Just curious.”

She pulled a leaf off a branch and twirled it between her fingers.

“Y’ thinkin’ ‘m gonna be trouble?”

“I don’t know… are you?”

“Maybe,” he stopped walking and pointed, “look,” he whispered, “a doe.”

She squinted, “Where?”

He extended his arm with his fingertip pointing, “Between them two birch trees. See her?”

After a few moments, Sybil smiled brightly, “I do. She’s beautiful. You have a keen eye.”

Daryl shrugged, “maybe.”

“Do you spend a lot of time in the woods?”

“Quite a bit. How ‘bout ya?”

“I love nature, but no… I haven’t been camping since I was a kid.”

“Yer missin’ out.”

“I suppose I am.”

“C’mon, I wanna show y’ somethin’.”

“Okay.”

They continued casually down the trail until he veered off it, onto an unbeaten path.

“Okay, now I know you’re going to kill me,” she teased.

“C’mon,” he rolled his eyes. They came to some tall rocks, “Up f’ a lil’ climbin’?”

Hands on hips she looked up at the rocks, “Should I have worn hiking boots?”

“Naw… them shoes are fine.”

She looked down at her vans and was thankful she’d chosen them.

“Alright. Let’s go. Show me the way.”

“It ain’t gonna be as hard as it looks. Found an easy way to get up there.” He motioned for her to follow. He went around the right-hand side of the stone goliaths.

“See here,” he pointed in front of him and upward, “almost like someone made a trail in them rocks.”

“They look like they have stepping stones cut into them.”

He started up the incline, turning around every so often to make sure she was still behind him. She was eagerly bringing up the rear, keeping close.

“’s is the hard part,” he said, reaching for her hand, “lemme help y’ up the rest o’ the way.”

She took his hand and he pulled just enough to get her over the final ledge. She took a breath and looked down behind her whistling, “We are up high.”

He nodded, “Higher than it looks from down there.”

She noticed a singed area and a pile of wood.

“You come here often?”

He nodded, “’s m’ place t’ getaway. C’mere… an’ look.”

She joined him on the opposite side of the rocks and looked out. What a sight to behold. She could see the large lake in its entirety from this vantage point, and the multitude of trees on the other side. The sun was bright in the sky. She felt as if she could reach out and touch it. The rays warmed her face. She turned to look at Daryl. His blue eyes were studying her, gauging her reaction. The humongous smile on her face was enough for him. He was convinced that she was the most beautiful woman he’d ever laid eyes on.

Daryl rolled to his side and stared into the darkness inside the hay mound sighing. He didn’t sleep much, to begin with. And even less since the world fell. Thinking of her made it near impossible. He sat up while Dog rustled through the hay to rest his head in Daryl’s lap. He brusquely pet the dog's head. Dog whined. He’d been with Daryl so long that he could read his emotions.

“S’ alright, boy. ‘ll get through it. Always do.” He got to his feet, stretched, and said, “C’mon. ‘S go f’ a walk.” Daryl and Dog made their rounds, checking the sentinels on the wall, joining them for a bit to watch for walkers or marauders.

“You’re up early,” Cal commented, shaking out his foot that fell asleep.

Daryl shrugged, “Always am. Don’t need much sleep.”

“I don’t know how you do it, Dixon,” Cal continued.

Diane looked over at the two men, “Be thankful Daryl doesn’t sleep much. He’s saved a lot of our asses more than once because of it.”

Cal knew it was true and agreed, “Oh I know he has. It’s just when I manage to have some time to rest, I conk out. Sometimes for half a day.”

People meandered about as the sun rose, and Daryl found himself back to work at the cabins.

“You know, there’s always one of those here for you,” Jesus said, holding up a board to be nailed.

Daryl said, “Hate t’ take a place from someone else. I don’t mind the hay mound or a tent. ‘M easy.”

“So have you completely set down roots in Alexandria?”

Daryl shrugged, “Dunno if I set roots down anywhere.” The truth was the man had huge bouts of wanderlust and couldn’t sit still for too long before needing to be out in the wild again. He went with Aaron sometimes to look for more people to bring back to the communities. He brought messages from one community to the next. He also liked to provide food, go on scavenging runs; anything to keep himself busy.

People that knew him knew he was this way. They noticed a big change when Rick infamously blew up the bridge that was to connect everyone to save his people. 

Daryl disappeared for three years. During his search for Rick, he met a woman by the name of Leah. No one knew about the affair he’d had with her except Carol. Dog had discovered an old house that seemed abandoned one day during their travels. But it wasn’t empty. That’s when he found an ornery woman living there that didn’t want him anywhere around her land. After about a year they began to talk, her more than him, and in a few more months they shared food. After that Daryl realized how lonely he was; one thing led to another and the two became involved. It didn’t last long. Daryl pulled away for several reasons: he wanted to continue looking for Rick, and he couldn’t allow himself to feel what he once felt for Sybil. When he was with Leah, she knew he was far away in his mind: thinking about his brother, and she had no idea what else. He couldn’t open up to her. That took years and trust. Something he knew he could never have with her. She put conditions on him and gave him ultimatums.

“It’s your brother or me.”

“It’s your family or me.” He was not a man who responded well to conditions. He wasn’t about to choose a woman that wanted all or nothing. So he walked away, never looking back.

Chapter 5: The Race

After two weeks of working on cabins, several were finished thanks to the hard labor everyone put in. Daryl wanted to reward them all with some venison, so he decided he’d head out before the light of day to hunt.

Dog stayed in step with Daryl as they silently made their way through the forest. He’d seen deer droppings which decided the direction they would go. Tell-tale signs of a foraging deer were seen everywhere if you were observant enough. Daryl was a master of tracking. He held his breath as soon as he saw the three-point, lifted his crossbow, aimed, and fired. The arrow hit its mark between the front shoulder and the ribcage, piercing the heart. The deer dropped where it stood, feeling no pain. Just the way Daryl liked it. No suffering.

He set to work right away field dressing the internal organs before he heard the groans of Walkers coming from the left.

“Shit,” he muttered, hefting the deer over his shoulders, “c’mon Dog,” he called, quickly making his exit. The organs would keep the few Walkers busy. At least enough for him to get safely away.

He returned at dusk with his prize, congratulated by many, and thanked personally by Maggie.

“Can’t have them people be veg’tarians,” Daryl teased, taking it to hang out back.

“Oh no, too many vegetables will make the people weak,” Maggie teased. Daryl eyed her between his curtains of bangs, a smirk on his face.

“They’ll appreciate it to be sure. We can do a lot with poultry and beef…”

“But there ain’t nothin’ like venison,” he cut in.

She nodded, “Right.”

They heard kids laughing and spotted Hershel and the other kids playing with Dog. Dog of course loved all the attention.

“Seems good to have them bein’ kids, huh?” Maggie asked, sighing. She had to dig deep to remember the days of misspent youth and no fear. Riding horses with her sister Beth, playing in the fields, and nights catching fireflies.

Daryl nodded as he shoved his bloodied hands into a basin of water, “Mhm… they ain’t had it so good, growin’ up too fast ‘cause t’ way t’ world turned out.” He dried his clean hands on a rag and watched the kids for a bit, a small smile on his face.

“Can’t catch me dog,” Marigold yelled out, her laugh echoing through the trees.

(August) ”You’ll never catch me, Daryl!” Sybil yelled, swimming faster out towards the floating dock in the middle of the lake. Daryl however was an experienced swimmer and was soon closing in on her. The thrill of the chase caused Sybil to start laughing and slowed her down in speed. Daryl slowed his pace, waiting for her to gain her wits and start moving faster again. Soon her hands were touching the dock.

“Damn, y’ got away,” he said, holding the edge of the dock with his hands. She splashed him playfully.

“I know you let me win.”

“Did no such thing.”

She giggled, “Okay… deny it all you want.” She caressed his damp cheek, “I’ll still give you your reward,” she moved closer and kissed his wet lips before pulling up onto the dock. Daryl could feel his stomach flip flop and his heart quicken in reaction to her affection. It was their first kiss. His cheeks reddened and he pulled up onto the dock next to her, their feet dangling in the water. He’d been pursuing her avidly for several months. His first thoughts of just wanting to bed the woman passed once he realized there was so much more to her than just a beautiful body. She had spunk, a clever mind, and kept him on his toes. He’d never met anyone like her before. Sybil seemed to enjoy her time with him, and this kiss just solidified what he was hoping for. He knew that other guys were trying to get her attention, he wasn’t blind. But the more she accepted offers of dates from him, the less concerned he became with them.

She laid back on the dock, the sun’s rays kissing her wet skin. Her hair spread out above her head like a dark halo. Her red one-piece showed plenty but left just the right amount covered to let the imagination run wild.

Daryl chewed his lip for a moment, “Sybil…”

“Mhm?” She hummed, shielding her eyes from the bright sky as she looked his way.

“’S a band playin’ at a bar next weekend. A local band… thought maybe y’all would like t’ go.”

“What kind of music?” she asked him curiously.

“Heavy stuff. Ain’t no room for country shit.”

She grinned, “You’ve got yourself a plus one then. I think it would be a lot of fun.” The idea of being squished in close to her was on his mind. He was still a man after all.

“Rememberin’ the good old days?” Maggie asked. Daryl stopped chewing his lip.

“Gonna go find somethin’ t’ do.”

Chapter 6: Scavenging Parts

“Hey, Daryl…” Jesus caught up with the archer after morning chores, “Eugene needs some parts for the solar panel he’s been working on and gave me directions to a place he thinks I can find those parts. Wanna ride with me, help me out?”

Daryl nodded as he finished brushing a horse down, “be ready in a few. Lemme finish up here.”

Jesus drove fast down the road. Daryl stared at the directions, “A bullfrog’s hop t’ the right of a… what t’ hell is this?” He asked, scratching his head.

Jesus laughed, “It’s directions. Eugene wrote them.”

“F’ fuck’s sake. Two leagues past the old maple tree… ‘s a million maple trees out here!” He threw the instructions on the dashboard. Jesus smirked, “Don’t kill me. I wrote those just to tease you.”

“You bastard,” Daryl huffed, but smiled in the end, “figures. Where’s them directions at?”

Jesus pulled a paper out of his front pocket, “Here.”

Daryl read them quickly, “’s more like it.”

When they rolled up to the old rusty warehouse, Jesus cut the engine and looked over the list Eugene had given him. Daryl got out and started scouting for Walkers, and anyone else who happened along the way. He and Jesus cleared out a small group of the dead before breaking the chain lock on the door to head inside. Pigeons flew in the disturbed air kicking up dust and dirt. The men covered their mouths, Daryl quickly pulling his rag from his back pocket. He tied it over the bottom half of his mouth.  Both were silent as the grave as they passed through the large building in search of any trespassers alive, or undead. Once they were certain it was empty, they set out to find each of the things Eugene wanted. It took longer than they expected since neither knew where to start. Searching boxes, and reading labels… they’d found two of the five things before dark.

“Looks like we’ll be staying the night,” Jesus huffed, wiping the dust from his hands onto his pants.

“Mhm,” Daryl lowered his backpack and brought out some salted dried venison, doling out some pieces to Jesus.

“Thanks,” Jesus said as they sat on the cold cement floor.

 As they settled in for the night, Daryl volunteered to keep a watch out.

“T’morrow we hit them boxes upstairs. Can’t see shit now.”

“Agreed. I didn’t think this would be a two-day trip. I’ll just catch a few winks.”

(1 Year Later) “Sybil, get on over here, woman!” Daryl had called out over the heavy strains of guitar on the jukebox to his girl.

Sybil’s green eyes danced with merriment as she set her beer on the bar and made her way over to the young man who beckoned her. She laughed as he snaked his arms around her waist.

His nose brushed against her ear as he said, “Dance w’ me.” As if she was ever interested in dancing with someone else. She slid her palms flat against his chest as they moved to their own beat. It certainly didn’t match the fast drum solo in the Motorhead song. But finding their way to sway their bodies together had never been a problem. They began to sweat there under the hot lights, their friends milling around them. Some were dancing, others playing pool, and still, some just drinking and sharing conversation.

Daryl’s brother Merle was leaning on his old lady, licking salt from her neck as he downed another shot of tequila. He followed up with a lemon wedge from her cleavage as his loyal gang cheered him on.

“ ‘s get outta here,” Daryl said into Sybil’s ear, “ ‘s gonna get crazy t’night.”

“It’s well on its way,” she said, gripping his hand. They made a quick exit and soon were taking off on his bike. The wind whipped through Sybil’s untethered hair. The exhilaration from the cool air and the feel of her cheek against his back were enough to make Daryl giddy. He pulled up to her apartment and as he walked her to the door she stopped, key in her hand.

“We’ve been seeing each other for a while now,” she spoke up, her eyes staring into his, “and you’ve been good to me, Daryl. Come inside. I want you to stay the night.”

His jaw twitched. He’d been excited for this moment, he wouldn’t deny it. But now that it was here, he felt a sense of pride. He’d spent his time getting to know her. There was still so much to learn. And tonight would be another lesson in the ways of Sybil.

There was no small talk as her roommates were already in their respective rooms sleeping. He hadn’t been in the apartment at night unless there was a crowd of sorority sisters having a party. He and Sybil preferred being out of the house and hanging out with his gang often. She closed her room door there in the dark and turned on a dim lamp next to the bed.

She smiled at him, walking close, her hands caressing either side of his face as they began to kiss passionately. His palms rested on the flat of her back, rubbing slowly up and down as their mouths opened to explore like so many times before. It was more intense though, with pure need behind each tongue lashing and twisting together. A small groan lifted from his throat as she stepped back from him. They stared at one another, the soft glow from the light accentuating her features. The shadows delved into her curves and along the line of her legs.

“Help me out of this skirt, will you, Daryl?”

Daryl heard a noise that caught his attention. He went to investigate but seeing that it was a raccoon he shooed it away before walking the interior of the building alone. He placed a cigarette to his dry lips and lit it. Staring out one of the wide warehouse windows, he saw a few Walkers milling about near the truck. He puffed out some smoke and moved on toward the opposite end.

Sybil was more amazing than he could’ve imagined. Her body was perfection to him, and as she lifted on top of him, her hair swung down her back. He tangled his fingers into it before rubbing down around her ass while she ground her hips on top of him. He breathed as if through honey, labored, and sweet. As she rubbed his chest, a little pout curled on her lips as she neared the height of pleasure, calling out to him. He rolled her to her back, taking her breath away as he kept the rhythm up, bringing her to orgasm. He came in sync with her. He looked down at Sybil, the sweat beading on her forehead, their wet bodies sticking together, and he felt something he’d never felt before – fulfilled.

“Kiss me…” she gasped, still feeling the aftershocks of their lovemaking.

“Ain’t gotta ask, Syb…” He lowered his mouth onto hers, sucking her lips slowly, delightfully before withdrawing. He lay back, his chest still heaving as she lay her cheek upon it, listening to his fast heartbeat. He opened his legs, and she nestled her lower half between them, her stomach resting on his groin, not uncomfortable. He rubbed her saturated back, fingers slipping in the sweat, her hair pasted to her shoulders and his chest. Their bodies fit together like an intimate puzzle. Their hands locked together, fingers woven tight, his free hand cradling her. It was at that moment he knew his heart belonged to her.

When the first hint of light came through the windows, Jesus was up. He and Daryl searched the remainder of the building and found the rest of the items for Eugene by midday.

When they got outside, the Walkers from last night were still wandering around the truck, and seeing the two men, started lurching towards them.

“Dammit,” Jesus uttered while Daryl shot the closest in the head and then pulled his knives. Jesus round-housed one right in the skull, its rotted head exploding from the connection. Daryl took out two, a stab to the front of each temple, and Jesus took down the last one.

“ ‘ll drive,” Daryl said once everything was packed into the back of the pickup. Jesus tossed the keys to him. On the drive to Hilltop, Daryl was reliving those moments with Sybil still. Waking up with his legs wrapped around hers, her body still on his. He could almost feel her warmth, smell her perfume. He swerved almost hitting a Walker in the road. Jesus looked over at him, “Are you sure you’re up for driving?”

“Yeah, ‘m fine.” He sped up to get past the gathering herd quickly leaving them in the dust.

Eugene was pleased as he met the men getting out of the pickup.

“Did y’all find everything?” he asked as he pulled back the tarp over the parts. He went over the list and marked each item off, “Well done, you guys. I know these doodads don’t look like much, but when I get ‘em all put together, we’ll have some fine additions to those cabins y’all been working so hard on. Electricity! Creature comforts.”

“Glad we could help,” Jesus said as he and Daryl unloaded.

“Did you meet up with any trouble?” Maggie asked as she picked up a small box from the back.

“Naw,” Daryl responded.

“Nothing we couldn’t handle,” Jesus added.

( 1 Month Later) Carver College

Daryl spotted Sybil and her friends in the throes of students in the cafeteria. She’d been pouring over textbooks for a test coming up in English Lit class. He breathed hot air on the back of her neck, “Hey babe.”

She smiled as she whispered, “Daryl…”

Mandy sniggered, “You two are something else.”

Daryl kissed Sybil lightly and slid into the chair next to her.

“Where have you been?” She asked in a hushed tone. She hadn’t seen him in four days. No explanations, no phone calls, “I was worried about you. I thought something might have happened to you!”

“Naw, no need t’ worry. ‘M here now.” He rubbed her hand slowly.

She picked up her books and excused herself from her circle of friends. Daryl grabbed them to carry for her. Once they were outside she turned to him, “Where have you been?” She asked him again, “You just disappeared.”

“I had t’ go outta town w’ Merle.”

“To do what?” She asked curiously.

He shrugged, “Just some odd errands, ain’t no big deal.”

“Daryl, it’s a big deal when you’re dating someone, and you just disappear. What if something happened to you?”

“Syb… don’t need t’ keep tabs on me. Ain’t nothin’ gonna happen t’ me.”

She frowned, “I’m not keeping tabs. Why are you keeping secrets?”

Chapter 7: Unavailable

The deer was finally ready to process. Many offered to help him, but he kindly rejected those offers. He wanted to work alone and get things off his mind. His memories were flooding in and he couldn’t build the dam fast enough to keep them at bay. It was close to the time of year when he first met Sybil. Even though people referred to parts of the year by the period of Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, Daryl knew it was around June. He felt it in his heart, and thoughts of Sybil were at their pinnacle. He sharpened his knife on a whetstone til the blade could slice easily through the meat, and as he removed the hide, he halted suddenly.

(6 Months Later) Sybil looked up from the bed, “Where are you going, hot stuff?”

He zipped his jeans, “gotta go outta town f’ a few days.”

She sat up, slipping on one of his t-shirts, “where? You never say.”

“Nothin’ y’ need t’ worry y’self over, Syb.” He rubbed her shoulders slowly, “Y’ won’t even have time t’ miss me.” He kissed her lips.

“Your brother is a troublemaker. Why do I have the feeling you two get up to no good when you’re gone?”

He shook out his head and started working the hide again, bound to have the hide salted and stretched before dinner. His workworn hands rubbed the salt into the thin layer of skin remaining, and as he was stretching it, he could smell dinner. His stomach rumbled.  He covered the meat with an old tarp and went to join the others.

That night he sat by the campfire longer than most. The dog was sleeping by his foot, basking in the heat from the flames.

(One Year Later)  Daryl knew it was late. It was nearly one. He’d been out fucking around with his gang, causing a ruckus, getting into a fight with another gang, and then Merle suggested they all go out for drinks. Daryl had a few and lost track of time.

“Shit, I gotta go!” He told his brother.

“What? Why?”

“’S Sybil’s birthday. ‘M late.”

“You’re so whipped. Hell, she’ll have another one next year.”

“That ain’t the point!” He said goodbye to his friends and rushed out to his bike. When he got to Sybil’s apartment, he could see the windows were dark. He pulled the present he had messily wrapped out of his saddle bag and went up to the second floor. He knocked on the door, and Theresa answered.

“What are you doing here, Daryl? Don’t you know how to tell time?”

“Jus’ wanna see Syb… don’t need y’all givin’ m’ a hard time. Lemme in.”

“Why don’t you just go and try to make amends tomorrow? You’re on her shit list you know.”

“Who’s at the door?” Sybil called out behind her. Daryl looked over Theresa’s shoulder and saw Sybil tying up her silky robe.

“Syb… ‘s me. I wanna come in.”

“I’ve got this Theresa…”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, you go on back to bed.”

Daryl ducked his head in shame, “Happy Birthday.” He held out the gift. Sybil’s hands were on her hips.

“Kind of late for that. My birthday was yesterday. It’s nearly two. What happened?”

“Got caught up w’ the boys. I lost track o’ time s’ all.”

“Oh, that’s all huh? My birthday didn’t matter much to you then, did it?”

“That ain’t true.”

“Sure it is. If you cared, you’d have been on time. You get with those guys and forget everything.” She pulled him into the room, and looked at him in the light, “And what the hell happened to your chin?”

Daryl instinctively touched his jaw. He must’ve gotten a bruise from the fight.

“You’ve been fighting again?”

“Weren’t much o’ a fight,” he half–laughed, “We got ‘em good.”

She stared at him angrily, “I can’t believe you’re missing the point here.” She wiped tears from her eyes, “I don’t think this is going to work out.”

“What? Y’ breakin’ up w’ me?!”

“Yes, I am.”

“Because m’ late f’ y’ birthday?”

“You just don’t get it. You didn’t show up. You didn’t call. And when you finally do show up you don’t feel one inch of remorse for it all.”

“Said I was sorry, Syb. Don’t be like that.”

“No, you didn’t apologize. You bragged about a fight. I don’t want to be a part of this. I expect more from the man I care about.”

He wiped his eyes, blaming the smoke from the fire, and decided it was time to head back to Alexandria. He’d leave as soon as he finished preparing the meat for Hilltop.

Chapter 8: Camping

Daryl waited a couple weeks for Sybil to cool off after their split.

“You’re better off without her baby brother. Now you ain’t tied down to one woman, you can date any y’all want.”

“Don’t wanna date anyone else. I want Sybil,” he muttered, wiping his greasy hands on a rag. He turned over the engine on his bike, bringing it back to life after its tune-up.

“Well she don’t want nothin’ to do with your sorry ass. She thinks she’s too good for ya! There’s plenty of other bitches that are interested in ya.”

“She ain’t a bitch, Merle. She’s different than them other girls.”

“Ooh, are you in love, pussy?”

“Why am I tellin’ y’ anythin’?” He put his tools away, and said, “Goin’ out f’ a bit.”

“Go on then, run back to that highfalutin’ uptown bitch. She must have some sugar ‘tween her legs to keep ya comin’ back to her.”

He showed up at Save A Lot where Sybil worked. She wasn’t at the cash register, but he found her stocking shelves as he searched the aisles.

“Hey Syb…” he said as he approached. She stopped marking canned goods with the pricing gun and looked in his direction.

“What are you doing here?”

“Came t’ apologize. M’ sorry I was such a dick.”

“Are you? Because I have the feeling that the sort of thing that got you in trouble with me in the first place is going to keep happening.”

“Naw… it ain’t. What can I do t’ make y’ change y’ mind?”

She huffed, “You need to stop fighting. I knew full well you were in a gang when I met you. But I don’t think I realized what that entailed.”

He reached out and touched one of her curls, wrapping it around his finger, “I can stop fightin’.”

“Yeah, right,” She rolled her eyes.

“I can,” he insisted.

“Prove it.”

“I will. Supposed t’ be a lil’ somethin’ on Friday. ‘ll come an’ see y’all instead. Maybe I can help you study…” he leaned his arm against the shelf, keeping close to her, “what d’ ya say?”

“Give me a week to think things over. Stay out of trouble until then. I refuse to have a boyfriend that will probably end up in jail. You’re better than that.”

He screeched to a halt on his bike. Right in the middle of the road. 

“Can’t go back to Alexandria.” He felt a tightness in his chest, “Just can’t. C’mon.” He veered off the road and pushed his bike into some bramble to hide it.

He and Dog made their way deep into the forest around them. He knew the area well. He retreated towards a long winding river that cut through a clearing and set up a little lean-to between two trees and dug out a hole for a campfire. He set up a perimeter and fashioned a spear from a sturdy branch to go fishing. He and Dog ate a fine catch of fish for dinner.

He lay back against a log and stared up through the tree branches as the stars peeked into the holes between the leaves.

Three months later, they were back together. It took him that long to convince Sybil that he was staying out of trouble. He hung with the gang but skipped out when any brouhahas took place. His brother and friends didn’t let him live it down. He took the brunt of their brutal teasing, keeping his focus on what he really wanted, Sybil.

He watched as Sybil tried to figure out the instructions to the tent she’d brought on their first camping trip. It was early Autumn, and the weather was still pretty warm. He snorted, “Don’t need that booklet. Didn’t need no fancy tent neither.”

“I wanted it to be special,” she huffed, “and I can’t make heads or tails of any of this.”

He walked over, grabbed the instructions, and tossed them in the fire.

“Hey!” She laughed, “How do you expect to set up this tent then?”

He set to work, “Syb… pull them ropes your way.” He handed her a spike, “Stick ‘em in the ground…”

He pulled the other side and did the same. He put together the supports inside, assembling the tent in no time. She smiled proudly as she looked at the results.

“I knew you were good for something,” she teased, messing with his short hair.

That night after hot and heavy lovemaking, they went skinny dipping in the river not far from their setup. She shone under the moonlight, her body dancing with the beads of water dripping down her shoulders, over her breasts, and into the water at her waist. Daryl joined her and as they made out she said, “I could stay here forever.”

How he wished he had.

Chapter 9: The Thick of the Woods

Daryl spent weeks wandering the woods. He’d become so silent, he didn’t even need to call Dog, Dog just knew when to come. He’d gone a longer distance with each day, following the river downstream. He’d passed some small makeshift cabins and checked them out. Even spent some nights in one or two of them. He fought Walkers. Trudged through a downpour. Played with Dog in different clearings they happened upon. They lived off fish, rabbits, squirrels, wild yams, and leeks.

(2 Years Later) Sybil and Daryl got an apartment together. They’d been together for well over four years, and things just fell into place. They were happy, content with life. She was in her fourth year of college, she wanted to be a teacher, and Daryl was working for a local garage fixing just about anything with a motor.

“C’mon Syb… y’all get that cute ass in here. ‘ll help y’ study.” Daryl wanted to be as supportive to Sybil as he could. Even when he didn’t understand what he was quizzing her on, he felt proud of his girl for being so smart.

“If I don’t know it by now, I’m never going to know it.”

“C’mon ‘s the hard stuff, Early Childhood Development,” He held up the book, “We’re gonna go over t’ ones highlighted. Y’all got the rest down pat.”

“Okay, okay,” She threw her hands up in the air.

“Listen… ‘s somethin’ y’ really want, right?”

“Yes,” she answered, her eyes locking with his.

“Then y’ gotta put the time in. ‘S been four long years, but ‘s almost over. Don’t give up.” He squeezed her hand gently as he leaned in to kiss her.

“What would I do without you?” She asked, rubbing his scruffy cheek.

“Fail t’ damn test,” he teased, wiggling his eyebrows. They both laughed, “Right. Question one…”

He smiled at the thought, on how she graduated in the top five of her class. He’d liked to have thought he was part of the reason for that, if she wasn’t so smart to begin with. Still, it was some of his favorite time back then, watching her mind work, the way she’d bite her tongue and look at the ceiling while she thought about her answers, and how she loved to be rewarded with kisses.

One evening, just before dusk he heard a scream. Another voice was yelling, “Over here… this way!”

Heavy footfalls, groaning, and growling. Walkers. He followed the sounds and before crashing through the brush, he surveyed the situation. About ten Walkers were surrounding a couple of women and a man. They were fighting the Walkers pretty well, but there were too many. Daryl aimed his crossbow, clipping one Walker in the head about to bite the man’s shoulder. He fell to the ground. Unsure of what happened, the people continued to fight. He unsheathed his two knives, broke through the brush, and took two out, slicing another at the knees. One of the women brought down a knife into its brain. The other woman shoved a Walker into a tree and split its head with a machete. Three more to go. The man was backing up, looking to see if there were any more, turned around, and got one mere moment from attacking him. Daryl wiped the blades on his filthy pants and looked at the people quickly.

“Thank you,” one of the women breathed, “I don’t know if we could’ve made it without your help. Imagine finding another living soul in the woods.”

Daryl nodded as Dog sniffed around for any other threats. The woman with the cleaver was kneeling, cleaning her blade on one of the Walker’s shirts.

“Yes, thank you.” She stood up and turned to face the man, “we wouldn’t have made it.” She brushed an arm across her grimy face and said, “Do we look as bad as you do?” She smiled at the light joke. Daryl did a double-take. He squinted his eyes and studied the woman closely. She wasn’t anything to look at from first glance being road worn and ragged. But he saw those mystifying green eyes he’d never forget.

“S… Sybil?” His voice broke from being quiet for so long. It sounded foreign to him.

“How do you know my name?” She asked, eyeing the stranger. He was caked in mud, grungy from head to toe, long filthy hair pasted to his dirtied face.

“’S me…” was all he could muster taking a step closer. The woman looked deeply into the man’s eyes.

“Syb… ‘s Daryl…” he patted his chest.

“Daryl?” Her eyes widened. With sharp analysis, she determined that under that mess was the man from her past when everything was right in the world. Her throat closed as she stood stone still. The air was so thick, no one spoke, but everyone was bewildered that Sybil could find someone in the middle of nowhere that knew her.

There was movement behind her and a voice, “Mom? Is it safe to come out?”

For Part Two Click Here

[ulkaralakbarova]

A trio of female soul singers cross over to the pop charts in the early 1960s, facing their own personal struggles along the way. Credits: TheMovieDb. Film Cast: Curtis Taylor Jr.: Jamie Foxx Deena Jones: Beyoncé James “Thunder” Early: Eddie Murphy Marty Madison: Danny Glover Effie White: Jennifer Hudson Lorrell Robinson: Anika Noni Rose C.C. White: Keith D. Robinson Michelle Morris: Sharon Leal Wayne: Hinton Battle Magic: Mariah Iman Wilson May: Yvette Cason Max Washington: Ken Page M.C.: Ralph Louis Harris Tiny Joe Dixon: Michael-Leon Wooley Jazz Singer: Loretta Devine Jerry Harris: John Lithgow Sam Walsh: John Krasinski Ronald White: Alexander Folk Aunt Ethel: Esther Scott Miami Comic: Bobby Slayton Teddy Campbell: Jordan Wright Melba Early: Dawnn Lewis Talent Booker: Jaleel White Joann: JoNell Kennedy Charlene: Sybyl Walker Stepp Sister: Lesley Nicole Lewis Stepp Sister: Eboni Nichols Stepp Sister: Arike Rice Stepp Sister: Fatima Robinson Little Albert: Aakomon Jones Tru-Tone: Bernard Fowler Tru-Tone: Anwar Burton Tru-Tone: Tyrell Washington Dave: Rory O’Malley Sweetheart: Laura Bell Bundy Sweetheart: Anne Elizabeth Warren David Bennett: Ivar Brogger Jimmy’s Piano Player: Daren A. Herbert Elvis Kelly: Jocko Sims Rhonda: Pam Trotter Janice: Cleo King Club Manager: Eddie Mekka Case Worker: Alejandro Furth TV Reporter: Dilva Henry American Bandstand Producer: Vince Grant Nicky Cassaro: Robert Cicchini TV Director: Thomas Crawford Carl: Charles Jones Technical Director: Robert Curtis Brown Tania Williams: Stephanie Owens Man with Gun: Gilbert Glenn Brown Stagehand: Marty Ryan Detroit Reporter: Michael Villani Chicago Deejay: Gregg Berger L.A. Deejay: Daniel Riordan Photographer: David James Promo Film Narrator (voice): Paul Kirby Security Guard: Derick Alexander Curtis’ Secretary: Yvette Nicole Brown Go-Go Dancer: Nancy Anderson Go-Go Dancer: Joelle Cosentino Go-Go Dancer: Lisa Eaton Go-Go Dancer: Clare Kutsko Go-Go Dancer: Tracy Phillips Go-Go Dancer: Kelleia Sheerin Campbell Connection Dancer: Mykel Brooks Campbell Connection Dancer: Johnny Erasme Campbell Connection Dancer: Cory Graves Campbell Connection Dancer: J.R. Taylor Bad Side Dancer: Corinthea Henderson Bad Side Dancer: Craig Hollamon Bad Side Dancer: Reginald Jackson Bad Side Dancer: Chuck Maldonado Bad Side Dancer: Anthony Rue II Bad Side Dancer: John Silver Bad Side Dancer: Larry Sims Bad Side Dancer: Black Thomas Bad Side Dancer: Kevin Wilson Bad Side Dancer: Adrian Wiltshire Bad Side Dancer: Earl Wright Bad Side Dancer: Russell “Goofy” Wright Disco Dancer: Dominic Chaiduang Disco Dancer: Jose Cueva Disco Dancer: Omhmar Griffin Disco Dancer: Sky Hoffmann Disco Dancer: Trevor Lopez-Daggett Disco Dancer: Leo Moctezuma Disco Dancer: Gabriel Paige Disco Dancer: Terrance Spencer Disco Dancer: Tony Testa Disco Dancer: Quinton Weathers Disco Dancer: Jull Weber Disco Dancer: Marcel Wilson Jimmy’s Band: Stevie Ray Anthony Jimmy’s Band: Matthew Dickens Jimmy’s Band: Jerohn Garnett Jimmy’s Band: Mario Mosley Jimmy’s Band: Jimmy R.O. Smith Film Crew: Casting: Debra Zane Set Decoration: Nancy Haigh Executive Producer: Patricia Whitcher Producer: David Geffen Foley Artist: Catherine Harper Foley Artist: Christopher Moriana Producer: Laurence Mark Director: Bill Condon Musical: Tom Eyen Director of Photography: Tobias A. Schliessler Editor: Virginia Katz Original Music Composer: Henry Krieger Production Design: John Myhre Costume Design: Sharen Davis Digital Intermediate: Stefan Sonnenfeld Dialogue Editor: Kimberly Lowe Voigt Sound Effects Editor: George Simpson Stunts: Dick Ziker Makeup Artist: Judy Murdock Stunts: John Cenatiempo Second Unit Director of Photography: Dino Parks Assistant Costume Designer: Lizz Wolf First Assistant Editor: Ian Slater Casting Associate: Jeremy Rich Casting Associate: Tannis Vallely Music Arranger: Harvey Mason Gaffer: Newton TerMeer Assistant Art Director: Jann K. Engel Costume Supervisor: Elaine Ramires Sound Effects Editor: Donald Flick Script Supervisor: Carolyn Tolley Choreographer: Aakomon Jones Camer...

[indiespacesite]

How Artist Bisa Butler Brings Her Exquisite Quilt Portraits to Life

“When we see my quilts of an unknown person, it can hit on a memory that makes people feel something.” Bisa Butler discusses 25 years of quilting portraits with EBONY Media’s Delaina Dixon.

[thatswhatshedoes]

HOW ARTIST BISA BUTLER BRINGS HER EXQUISITE QUILT PORTRAITS TO LIFE

“When we see my quilts of an unknown person, it can hit on a memory that makes people feel something.” Bisa Butler discusses 25 years of quilting portraits with EBONY Media’s Delaina Dixon.

[bboyplankton]

2023 Playlist

2 Chainz & Lil Wayne – Long Story Short

38 Spesh – Crowned King

38 Spesh & Conway the Machine feat. Benny the Butcher – Speshal Machinery

38 Spesh & Conway the Machine feat. Pharohe Monch & Che Noir – We Outside

Adi Oasis – Serena

Adrian Dzvuke feat. Myx Quest – EGO

Ama Lou – Silence

Armani White feat. A$AP Ferg – Silver Tooth.

Austin Millz feat. Duckwrth – Familiar

Biako feat. Peyton – Holy Matrimony

BiC Fizzle – Loaded

BiC Fizzle – Where U From

BigXthaPlug - Mmhmm

BigXthaPlug – Rush Hour

BJ the Chicago Kid – Who Cares

BLK ODYSSY feat. Grace Sorensen – LET ME GO

BLK ODYSSY – ODEE

Boldy James & ChanHays – Trust Issues

Casper Sage – Flow State

Chase Shakur – x’s n o’s

Chiiild – Into The Deep End

Chris Brown – Feel Something

Chris Brown – Stutter

Ciara – Type A Party

Conway the Machine & Jae Skeese – The Chosen

Conway the Machine feat. Sauce Walka & Juicy J – Super Bowl

Curren$y & Trauma Tone – All Fucked Up

Curren$y & Trauma Tone feat. Maxo Kream – Cheat Code

Daniel Caesar – Do You Like Me?

Dave East – Letter to Kobi

Dave East – Like A Rose

Deanté Hitchcock feat. Big K.R.I.T. & Westside Boogie – Callin’

Dende – Nightmares

Destin Conrad feat. Masego – Super Paradise

Devon Gilfillian – The Recipe

DJ Drama feat. Jeezy – I Ain’t Gon Hold Ya

Doe Boy – Rhude Boy

Doja Cat – Agora Hills

Doja Cat – 97

Domo Genesis & The Alchemist feat. Tyler, the Creator – No Idols

Domo Genesis & The Alchemist feat. Freddie Gibbs – Till The Angels Come

Don Toliver – Leather Coat

Don Toliver feat. Kali Uchis – 4 Me

Ebony Riley – Draws

Elli Ingram – Heavy

Elmiene – Mad At Fire

Elmiene – Someday

Emotional Oranges – Lies You Tell

Fall Out Boy – What a Time To Be Alive

FNF Chop – Shooting

Forest Claudette – Two Years

Gucci Mane & B.G. – Idiots Worst Nightmare

Gucci Mane feat. Young Dolph – Pretty Girls

Hamzaa & 1srael – Borderline

IDK feat. Jucee Froot & Saucy Santana – Pinot Noir

Jack Harlow – They Don’t Love It

Jacob Latimore – Sorry

Jai’len Josey – Southern Delicacy

Jane Handcock – Layin Next to Me

Janelle Monáe – Water Slide

Jastin Martin – S.O.M.S. (Still Owe Me Something)

Jean Deaux – Dog

JMSN – Soft Spot

Jordan Ward feat. Lido – Pricetag/Beverlywood

Jorja Smith - Lately

Jozzy – Alone

Juicy J feat. La Chat – Deadbeat

Jungle – Back On 74

Justine Skye feat. Timbaland – Intruded

Kali Uchis feat. Don Toliver – Fantasy

K Camp – Spin the Block

Kenyon Dixon feat. Alex Isley – & Then Some

Kenyon Dixon – Lucky

Key Glock – Pop My Shit

Khamari – Doctor, My Eyes

Killer Mike feat. El-P & thankugoodsir – Don’t Let the Devil

Killer Mike feat. Curren$y, 2 Chainz, & Kaash Paige – Spaceship Views

KXNG CROOKED & Joell Ortiz – No More

Kyra – Sweet Mahogany

Larry June & The Alchemist feat. Slum Village – Orange Village

Larry June & Cardo feat. ScHoolboy Q – Pop Out

Leonard Charles feat. Reality Jonez – Get Out

Leon Thomas – Breaking Point

Lloyd Banks – Onyx AMG

Lloyd Banks feat. Method Man – 101 Razors

Logic feat. Norah Jones – Paradise II

Mac Demarco – Chicago

Machel Montano – Night Shift

Machel Montano feat. Destra – Shake the Place

Maeta feat. Ambré – Control Freak

Mahalia – Isn’t It Strange?

Mahalia – Plastic Plants

Marc E. Bassy – Change My Ways

Mannywellz – Be Alright

Masego – In Style

Masego – Remembering Sundays

Moneybagg Yo – Ocean Spray

Nas – Slow It Down

Nelccia – Options

Noah Guy feat. Amaria – Stay Here

Nonso Amadi – Foreigner

Omarion – Alkaline Drip

Paramore – Running Out of Time

Phabo – Casamigos

PinkPanthress – The Aisle

Preemo Rice – DEEP in my bag

Queen Naija – Soul Tied

RAAHiiM – Friend Zone

RAAHiiM – Lonely

RAAHiiM – Outside Freestyle

Reason – Gang Shit!

Rican Da Menace feat. Moneybagg Yo – Dumb

Rory feat. DRAM & Alex Isley – I Want You But You’ll Never Know…

Roy Woods – Don’t Mind Me

rum.gold – AM/FM

Sabrina Carpenter – Read Your Mind

Sabrina Claudio – Tastes So Good

Saint Harison feat. Tiana Major9 – homies

Saleka – Fantasy

Saleka – Séance

Sam Smith – No God

Sampha – Inclination Compass (Tenderness)

Sampha – Only

Sebastian Mikael feat. Flwr Chyld – It’s You

Selah Sue – When It All Falls Down

Shy Glizzy feat. 21 Savage – Slime-U-Out

Sy Ari Da Kid & Paxquiao – No Rules (Slut Me Out)

Tay Iwar feat. Knucks – Juice

Terrace Martin & Alex Isley – 2 Step in the Living Room

THEY. – Blu Moon

TOBi – Move

Tone Stith – Girls Like You

Tone Stith – Whoa

Travis Scott – I Know?

Travis Scott feat. James Blake & 21 Savage – Till Further Notice

Vedo – Consistency

Vedo – Deep (Hold You)

Vedo – You and Me

Victoria Monet – Smoke (Reprise)

Wale the Sage – Bleue

Wiz Khalifa – Tail Money

Yung Bleu – Can’t Help Who You Love

[dossantosspirit]

Top 100 songs of 2023

100. Miley Cyrus - Flowers

99. Tirzah - Promises

98. Joesef - It’s Been a Little Heavy Lately

97. Carly Rae Jepsen - Psychedelic Switch

96. Ashnikko - Cheerleader

95. Nation of Language - Weak in Your Light

94. Janelle Monáe - Float (ft. Seun Kuti and Egypt 80)

93. Fifty Fifty - Cupid

92. The Kills - New York

91. Romy - She’s on My Mind

90. Jessie Ware - Free Yourself

89. Zach Bryan - I Remember Everything (ft. Kacey Musgraves) 

88. Róisín Murphy - Coocool

87. LE SSERAFIM - UNFORGIVEN

86. Squid - Swing (In A Dream)

85. Peggy Gou - (It Goes Like) Nanana

84. Shamir - Oversized Sweater

83. The National - The Alcott (ft. Taylor Swift)

82. Mandy, Indiana - Pinking Shears

81. You Me At Six - No Future? Yeah Right (ft. Rou Reynolds)

80. Tyla - Water

79. Arlo Parks - Weightles

78. Hitsujibungaku - More Than Words

77. Slowdive - kisses

76. Indigo De Souza - Smog

75. Feist - Hiding Out In The Open

74. Margo Price - County Road

73. Raye - Ice Cream Man

72. Laufey - From The Start

71. Paris Texas - TenTHIRTYseven

70. The Hives - Bogus Operandi

69. Pangaea - Installation

68. Black Belt Eagle Scout - My Blood Runs Through This Land

67. Bad Bunny - WHERE SHE GOES

66. Q - LUV (I KNOW I WANT THIS FOR REAL)

65. Bombay Bicycle Club - Diving (ft. Holly Humberstone)

64. The Beaches - Blame Brett

63. Troye Sivan - Rush

62. Yaeji - For Granted

61. Rosalía and Rauw Alejandro - Beso

60. PJ Harvey - I Inside the Old I Dying

59. Margaret Glaspy - Act Natural

58. Flo - Fly Girl

57. U.S. Girls - Tux (Your Body Fills Me, Boo)

56. Bring Me The Horizon - LosT

55. Jenny Lewis - Psychos

54. (G)I-DLE - Queencard

53. Jim Legxacy - eye tell (!)

52. Bully - Days Move Slow

51. James Blake - Tell Me

50. Kali Uchis - Moonlight

49. XG - Shooting Star

48. Victoria Monét - On My Mama

47. Blur - The Narcissist

46. Fall Out Boy - Heartbreak Feels So Good

45. Amaarae - Reckless & Sweet

44. Genesis Owusu - Leaving the Light

43. Mahalia - Terms and Conditions

42. Skrillex, Fred again.., and Flowdan - Rumble

41. Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar - The Hillbillies

40. Blondshell - Olympus

39. Sofia Kourtesis - How Music Makes You Feel Better

38. ANOHNI and the Johnsons - It Must Change

37. Billie Eilish - What Was I Made for?

36. Soccer Mommy - Soak Up The Sun

35. Hannah Jadagu - Warning Sign

34. V - Love Me Again

33. Slow Pulp - Slugs

32. BABYMETAL - METAL KINGDOM

31. billy woods & Kenny Segal - Facetime (ft. Samuel T. Hearing)

30 .Young Fathers - Rice

29. Ratboys - Morning Zoo

28. PinkPantheress - Boy's a liar Pt. 2 (ft. Ice Spice)

27. Sampha - Spirit 2.0

26. Fever Ray - Shiver

25. Overmono - Good Lies

24. CHAI - MATCHA

23. Paramore - Running Out of Time

22. 100 gecs - Hollywood Baby

21. Noname - namesake

20. Big Thief - Vampire Empire

19. Fred Again.. & Baby Keem - leavemealone

18. Foo Fighters - Under You

17. Taylor Swift - Is It Over Now? (Taylor’s Version)

16. Yves Tumor - Ebony Eye

15. The Murder Capital - Return My Head

14. Julie Byrne - Summer Glass

13. Nourished by Time - Daddy

12. Wednesday - Chosen to Deserve

11. Mannequin Pussy - I Got Heaven

10. yeule - Sulky Baby

9. Sufjan Stevens - Will Anybody Ever Love Me?

8. XG - Left Right

7. Caroline Polachek - Pretty In Possible

6. Olivia Rodrigo - Vampire

5. McKinley Dixon - Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!?

4. boygenius - Not Strong Enough

3. Lana Del Rey - A&W

2. NewJeans - Super Shy

1. Mitski - My Love Mine All Mine

Playlist on Spotify

[personinthepalace]

Good Luck, Studio Rehearsal Photos

From Mercury Theatre twitter

[sunkissed-mogai]

hi! could i get eldritch/eerie/horror themed names? (anything fitting that theme!)

clarice, nightshade, nyx, abisnthe, ophelia, regan, rosemary, samara, morrigan, lilith, raven, blaire, salem, carrie, ebony, noire, ruby, rue, tabitha, tara, bela

ash, crow(e), thorn(e), storm, rune, phoenix, circe, hallow, harlowe, piper, ezra, crimson/crim, hecate, mist(y), dusk, phantom

damien, wolf, emmett, faun, ichabod, silas, xander, rusty, dixon

[theanticool]

Forever ago I made a post about women’s boxing champions by country. Can no longer find it but basically it was about how Mexico was whooping the rest of the world’s ass by having the most champs. Thanks to a mix of the pandemic and many of their best fighters pushing 40 though, many of the country’s champions have lost their titles. I’m not gonna do another breakdown by country but thought it’d be interesting to see where the trends are going.

First off, when I made that list (2017-ish), I think the U.S. had two world champions - Claressa Shields and maybe Kali Reis or Franchon Crews-Dezurn? Actually, it might have been just Shields. Now there are 8 American women who own like 18 world titles between them. Two of them (Shields and Jessica McCaskill) are undisputed champions (they own all 4 titles) and Crews-Dezurn will be fighting for unified at super middleweight soon hopefully. It’s a nice mix of new and old faces. Former Olympians like Mikaela Mayer and Marlen Esparza have emerged to grab world titles while long time mainstays on the pro scene like Kali Reis, Mary McGee, and Seniesa Estrada finally getting world titles. Plus you have someone like Jessica McCaskill emerging from obscurity to capture gold relatively early in her career. It’s worth noting though that of all these champions, only 3 are signed to major promotions (Mayer, Estrada, and Esparza). Some of the remaining *may* be signed to Eddie Hearn but it’s hard to discern at the moment. Just goes to show how hard it is, even with the growth of women’s boxing, for these women to get paid seriously.

Another interesting trend is the growth of women’s boxing in the UK. When I made that first list, there were no UK women’s boxing world champs. Adams was forced to retire before she could win one and unlike the US, the UK doesn’t really have a history of having women’s champions. So them having four world champs now is kind of astonishing - Savannah Marshall, Chantelle Cameron, Terri Harper, and Shannon Courtenay. And they have a big crop of up and coming boxers from the amateur who seemed to be getting signed monthly - Caroline Dubois, Sandy Ryan, Ebonie Jones, Carly Skelly, Rhiannon Dixon, Stevi Levy, Ellie Scotney, etc. plus you have contenders like Natasha Jonas and Rachel Ball floating around. There seems to be a pipeline of talent that is getting money invested into it and I can’t see that not translating into multiple world titles in the not so distant future.

Not represented well in the world title picture and forgotten because of how hard it is to get out these countries right now, but be on the lookout for New Zealand and Australia in the near future. Women like Mea Motu, Cherneka Johnson, and Taylah Robertson are people to keep eyes out for.

[loredumptime]

taglist

ORIGINAL

20s STORY: clarice, [southern man], iola kleeman, petra aveson, cleo aveson

APAMA STORY: apama, iotape, roxane, kleandros

APOCALYPSE STORY: foyoko suzuki, nguyen duong, ramona ahmad, roxanna, maisel, pablo

BAND STORY: electra, andromeda, venus, juno, bijou, milan, kiki, amber, dorian

BASIL LOUISE: basil louise callaway, maxine greer

CIRQUE NOELLE: mellie patch, leo fig, noelle tuleja, quura, areck johansen, mirissa acquati, orion floros, lula marinos, prissy, the lemon girls

COLD WAR STORY: lukas petrauskas, alexei, nadia pavlovsky, annika, sasha petrauskas, natasha petrauskas, tina petrauskas, valentina campos, ximena aguado, ilya bykov, ona petrauskas, lyosha petrauskas, vladimir, svetlana

DYSTOPIAN DELILAH: lemonade blackstone, eun-ha park hakim, jared smith, alexander moore, delilah yoshida, andreaus choi, emil olsen, erzsebet kemeny, zsofia kemeny, liam kishka, cory anderson

EZRA AND THEO: ezra ramirez, theodore rundle, ebony wilson, madeleine drozdov, jade wu, maple wells

HELL STORY: ashari astiela, baphomet, azri diotallevi, lia diotallevi, ark, the devil

HOMEFRONT STORY: henri, tucker, mirabelle

HONEYPOT: eleanor sabina, carlotta fernandes

KING TUT STORY: king tutankhamun, [girl] 

KORE’S UNIVERSE: kore mariangela, gertrude muller, leon ryland, dyani chuchip, hanzou kenta, aurelie babineaux

LESBIAN PIRATES: maeve finch, mariana finch, elena-rose finch, aerynthe milleny

MARY STORY: mary, [killer], [brother], hotaru saito, magnolia lewis

PANDORA STORY: william vasilescu, adam lysander, pandora chung, [pandora’s mom]

PETER PAN RETELLING: pan, wendy, hook, [hook bf], tink

PROFESSOR STORY: [professor], [inspector]

RAVIOLI: aika, augustus, olympias, [augustus sister], [evil prince]

RHIANONH: rhiannon mitchell, micha amos, lark beaumont, micha amos, richard mitchell

SACRILEGIOUS KIDS: lamb, rowan march, belle melangell, finn laurier, shiloh st. james, adam page, marley grey, haniel, gabriel SADIK STORY: ahmed, mihr nush, sadik bin abdullah, roshanak, fatima 

SLASHER KIDS: milo saint, charlie messer, jack colton, eli shaw, oliver shaw

TUTOR FROM CORINTH: philippos, tullia, calidus, berenike, galene

WEREWOLF STORY: alicia hughes, marlene hughes, wolfsbane hughes, alfred hughes

WILD WEST STORY: wes, beau, lottie, eve

WOODSTOCK STORY: annamae sinclair, jolene dixon, [hippie mother], [hippie cult leader], [hippie girl], [hippie boy]

WW2 STORY: wilfried achterburg, pepper porter, felix alberton, kostya vasiliev, luciano vargaz, carla neguirra, gwendolyn achterburg

YOKAI STORY: rio watanabe, sol costa, sumi ito, chiyo ito, hana ito

FANDOM

ARCANA OC: amaris natale, rishva bakhshi, tallulah devorak, maksim devorak, nyneve satrinava, lorelai natale, asanna natale

BREAKING BAD OC: cager myers, elise myers

DC OC: phoebus, constance, ella nashton, duela dent, cyril bloom, elsa king

FICTIF OC: diego perez, beatrix sparks, malou rossi, heidi dunajski

FNAF OC: trixy cat, ollie, hope

GORILLAZ OC: margo green, lemonade blackstone, jackson haywood, anita baker, connor bailey, eun-ha park hakim, marla kekoa, mason kekoa, delilah yoshida, jemima green, etienne green, catalina, francesca, camila, louis miller, juliet

HARRY POTTER OC: freya thrawcliffe, fern marden, circe ellis, yoon hye-in, aiden carter

HETALIA OC: agnes escalona, carla / andorra

JOJO OC: cecilio grande, delia sallow, miguel, jean, consuelo grande, maria grande, leandro 

MARBLE HORNETS OC: nicholas hill

SLENDERVERSE OC: alice burns, beam, [the rest of these guys aren’t my ocs, i just want to reblog stuff with their aesthetics] sally williams, jeffrey woods, tim wright, brian thomas, jane richardson, kate milens, tobias rogers, nina hopkins

SOUTH PARK OC: coral kelley, nia valez

UNDERTALE OC: kitty

WAKFU OC: hanezil the xelor, amodri the osamodas, nella the cra, rook, isre, fionan, milien, cleora, totio the ouginak

WARRIOR CATS OC: roseleaf, foxtail, frostspeck, snowpaw, [df mentor], sheep, lily, [riverclan guy], violetpelt, goldenfur, hawk, sardine

YURI ON ICE OC: leena makela, wynn virtanen

MISC.

DEAD OCS: sheena, hina takahashi, jazmin lafleure

[mysticalhearth]

J

Jagged Little Pill - Broadway - February, 2020 (StarCuffedJeans's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Elizabeth Stanley (Mary Jane Healy), Celia Gooding (Frankie Healy), Sean Allan Krill (Steve Healy), Derek Klena (Nick Healy), Ezra Menas (u/s Jo), Kathryn Gallagher (Bella), Antonio Cipriano (Phoenix), Logan Hart (Andrew Montefiore), Nora Schell (Pharmacist/Therapist), Kelsey Orem (s/w Jill/Teacher), Heather Lang (Courtney), Jane Bruce (Denise), Ebony Williams (Barista), Zach Hess (Drug Dealer), Max Kumangai (Doctor), Annelise Baker (Kelsey), John Cardoza, Kei Tsuruharatani, Kelsey Orem, Ken Wulf Clark, Nora Schell, Yeman Brown NOTES: Begins in the middle of the opening number. Clear picture and good sound throughout. Jagged Little Pill - Broadway - November, 2019 (Preview) (StarCuffedJeans's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Elizabeth Stanley (Mary Jane Healy), Celia Gooding (Frankie Healy), Sean Allan Krill (Steve Healy), Derek Klena (Nick Healy), Lauren Patten (Jo), Kathryn Gallagher (Bella), Antonio Cipriano (Phoenix), Logan Hart (Andrew Montefiore), Annelise Baker, Ebony Williams, Ezra Menas, Heather Lang, Jane Brusch, John Cardoza, Kei Tsuruharatani, Ken Wulf Clark, Laurel Harris, Logan Hart, Max Kumangai, Nora Schell NOTES: Stunning HD capture of the Alanis Morrisette musical in Broadway Previews. Filmed from the left orchestra with a mix of wides, mediums, and closeups. Fantastic performances all around with the action well-followed. Jekyll and Hyde - Broadway - December 19, 1999 (Major's master) FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Joseph Mahowald (u/s Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Coleen Sexton (u/s Lucy Harris), Christy Tarr (u/s Lisa/Emma Carew), Stuart Marland (u/s Gabriel John Utterson) Jekyll and Hyde - Broadway - 2000 (Pro-Shot's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Rob Evan (Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Coleen Sexton (Lucy Harris), Andrea Rivette (Lisa/Emma Carew), George Merritt (Gabriel John Utterson), Robert Jensen (Simon Stride), Corinne Melançon (Lady Beaconsfield), Martin Van Treuren (Lord Savage), Stuart Marland (General Lord Glossop), Bill E Dietrich (Sir Archibald Proops/Spider), David Chaney (Bisset) Jekyll and Hyde - Dortmund - October 18, 2019 (Rumpel's master) FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: David Jakobs (Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Bettina Mönch (Lucy Harris), Milica Jovanovic (Lisa/Emma Carew), Morgan Moody (Gabriel John Utterson), Tom Zahner (Sir Danvers Carew), Florian Sigmund (Simon Stride), Johanna Schoppe (Lady Beaconsfield), Mario Ahlborn (Bishop von Basingstoke), Georg Kirketerp (Lord Savage), Georg Kirketerp (General Lord Glossop), Jessica Troncha (Nellie) Jekyll and Hyde - Lancaster, Pennsylvania - 2020 (Pro-Shot's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Randy Jeter (Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde), Molly Grace B (Lucy Harris), Madison Paige Buck (Lisa/Emma Carew) NOTES: A special 90 minute version made with the collaboration of MTI and Wildhorn, streamed officially due to the novel Coronavirus. Jersey Boys - Las Vegas - December 22, 2007 FORMAT:  VOB (no smalls) (SD) CAST: Rick Faugno (Frankie Valli), Bryan McElroy (Tommy Devito), Jeff Leibow (Nick Massi), Andrew Rannells (Bob Gaudio), Joyce Chittick (Mary Delgado), Jonathan Hadley (Bob Crewe), Ken Krugman (Gyp De Carlo), Jonathan Gerard Rodriguez (Joey), Jason Martinez (Norm Waxman), Julia Krohn (Lorraine), Lauren Tartaglia (s/w Lorraine), Natalie Bradshaw (Francine), John Salvatore (Billy Dixon), Michael James Scott (Hal Miller), Kristofer McNeeley (Hank Majewski) NOTES: A little shaky at times, and a little obstruction from some heads downstage. Great energy from this cast, which became the original Las Vegas cast, from master. A- Jersey Boys - The Netherlands - 2013-, 2014 (Highlights) FORMAT:  MP4 (SD) CAST: Maarten Smeele (Frankie Valli), Martijn Vogel (Frankie Valli), René van Kooten (Tommy Devito), Robbert van den Bergh (Nick Massi), Dieter Spileers (Bob Gaudio) NOTES: Minimal highlights includes: Walk Like a Man (Martijn), Walk Like a Man (Maarten), Sherry (Maarten) and Big Girls don't Cry (Maarten). Jersey Boys - The Netherlands - July 27, 2014 (Closing Night) (Highlights) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Tim Driesen (Frankie Valli), René van Kooten (Tommy Devito), Robbert van den Bergh (Nick Massi), Dieter Spileers (Bob Gaudio), Barry Beijer (Bob Crewe), Hugo Haenen (Gyp De Carlo), Willemijn de Vries (Lorraine), Myrthe Maljers (Francine) NOTES: Highlights from the last show in The Netherlands. Highlights include Beggin, Bye Bye Baby, Cant take my eyes of you, Dawn, Oh what a night, Sherry, Working my way back to you. No good quality at all, heads in the way, sometimes focused on the heads )the obstruction ones' instead of the stage, no zoom at all Jesus Christ Superstar - 50th Anniversary Tour - February 18, 2020 (screechout's master) FORMAT:  MTS CAST: Aaron LaVigne (Jesus Christ), James Delisco Beeks (Judas Iscariot), Jenna Rubaii (Mary Magdalene), Tommy Sherlock (Pontius Pilate), Alvin Crawford (Caiaphas), Tyce Green (Annas), Paul Louis Lessard (King Herod), Eric A Lewis (Simon Zealotes), Tommy McDowell (Peter), Brian Golub, Brittany Rose Hammond, Chelsea Williams, David André, Erick Patrick, Garfield Hammonds, Jacob Lacopo, Jasmine Schmenk, Keirsten Nicole Hodgens, Pepe Nufrio, Sandyredd, Sara Andreas, Sarah Parker, Sheila Jones, Wesley Barnes NOTES: Some blurriness and washout, especially when not zoomed in, but mostly complete and unobstructed. Jesus Christ Superstar - Live In Concert (NBC) - April 1, 2018 (Pro-Shot's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Jason Tam (Peter Patrone), John Legend (Jesus Christ), Brandon Victor Dixon (Judas Iscariot), Sara Bareilles (Mary Magdalene), Ben Daniels (Pontius Pilate), Norm Lewis (Caiaphas), Jin Ha (Annas), Alice Cooper (King Herod)

Jesus Christ Superstar - UK Arena Tour (2012) - 2012 (Pro-Shot's video master) Format: MP4(SD) CAST: Ben Forster (Jesus Christ), Tim Minchin (Judas Iscariot), Melanie C (Mary Magdalene), Alexander Hanson (Pontius Pilate), Pete Gallagher (Caiaphas), Gerard Bentall (Annas), Chris Moyles (King Herod), Giovanni Spano (Simon Zealotes) NOTES: Proshot of the UK Arena Tour at Arena Birmingham. It was broadcasted to cinemas worldwide on the 29th October and 1st November 2012 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Los Angeles, California - February 16, 2002 (House-Cam's master) FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Roger Befeler (Joseph), Eden Espinosa (Narrator), John LaLonde (Pharaoh), Matt Logan (Simeon), Jennifer Rias NOTES: Single camera house-cam recording Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Tecklenburg, Germany - 2014 FORMAT:  VOB (no smalls) (SD) CAST: Alexander Klaws (Joseph), Sandy Mölling (Narrator), Julian Looman (Pharaoh), Reinhard Brussmann (Jacob), Alexander Bellinkx (Reuben), Marco Herse Foti (Napthali), Thomas Hohler (Simeon), Andrew Hill (Levi), Sebastian Brandmeir (Gad), Jürgen Brehm (Issachar), Benjamin Witthoff (Asher), Jan Altenbockum (Dan), Florian Theiler (Zebulun), Sebastian Smulders (Judah), Cihan Demir (Benjamin), Sebastian Brandmeir (Butler), Jürgen Brehm (Baker), Juliane Bischoff (Mrs Potiphar), Benjamin Witthoff (Potiphar) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The Netherlands - 2009 (Pro-Shot's master) FORMAT:  VOB (no smalls) (SD) CAST: Hein Gerrits (u/s Joseph), Renée van Wegberg (Narrator), Paul Walthuis (Pharaoh), Leo Hogeboom (Jacob), Robin van den Akker (Issachar), Mathijs Pater (Zebulun), Yves Adang (Benjamin) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The Netherlands - March 4, 2009 FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Freek Bartels (Joseph), Renée van Wegberg (Narrator), Leo Hogeboom (Jacob) NOTES: Recorded from the mezzanine. Restricted view due to some heads in the way and wandering by master. Wide shot on an angle. Audio is good. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The Netherlands - April 14, 2009 (Highlights) FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Freek Bartels (Joseph), Renée van Wegberg (Narrator), Leo Hogeboom (Jacob) NOTES: Good zooms but sometimes the camera is a bit unstable and there are some heads in the way. It's recorded between two seats so you cannot see the full stage. Unfortunately, it's only Act 1. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The Netherlands - April 14, 2009 (Highlights) FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Freek Bartels (Joseph), Renée van Wegberg (Narrator), Leo Hogeboom (Jacob) NOTES: Good zooms but sometimes the camera is a bit unstable and there are some heads in the way. It's recorded between two seats so you cannot see the full stage. Unfortunately, it's only Act 1. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The Netherlands - July 26, 2009

FORMAT: video CAST: Mathijs Pater (Joseph), Renée van Wegberg (Narrator), René van Kooten (Pharaoh), Leo Hogeboom (Jacob), Robin van den Akker (Issachar), Mathijs Pater (Zebulun), Yves Adang (Benjamin) NOTES: Recorded from the left balcony. Decent quality, decent audio. Some zooms but restricted. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Vienna - June 17, 2000 FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Hannes Muik (Joseph), Lucy Thoulds (Narrator), Uwe Kröger (Pharaoh), Peter Faerber (Jacob), Peter Faerber (Potiphar) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Vienna - June 17, 2000 FORMAT:  VOB (with smalls) (SD) CAST: Hannes Muik (Joseph), Lucy Thoulds (Narrator), Uwe Kröger (Pharaoh), Peter Faerber (Jacob), Peter Faerber (Potiphar) & Juliet - Manchester Opera House - September 14, 2019 (Matinee) (Preview) (Highlights) (queenofthedead's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (SD) CAST: Miriam-Teak Lee (Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Ivan de Freitas (Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Grace Mouat (Judith), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy), Dillon Scott-Lewis (Richard), Kerri Norville (Susanna) NOTES: This is PARTIAL. Only a few minutes are missing from act 1 but video ends mid-way through act 2. An hour and a half of footage split into 8 mp4 files. Minimal heads obstructing view, however has problems with focus and washout. This was the show’s 5th ever performance in Manchester. & Juliet - West End - January 2, 2020 (Matinee) (wheredidtherockgo's master) FORMAT:  AVI (SD) CAST: Miriam-Teak Lee (Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Ivan de Freitas (Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Christopher Parkinson (s/w Fletcher), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Sophie Usher (s/w Gwynne), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Grace Mouat (Judith), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Kerri Norville (Susanna) NOTES: 28 files. I was seating next to a speaker so the sound isn't great especially during the songs. filmed with a spycam so not a good quality. Filmed blindly and I was holding the cam near my face so you can hear my ugly laugh. Date stamp wrong. & Juliet - West End - December, 2019 (queenofthedead's master) FORMAT:  AVI (SD) CAST: Miriam-Teak Lee (Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Ivan de Freitas (u/s William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Christopher Parkinson (u/s Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Grace Mouat (Judith), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy), Dillon Scott-Lewis (Richard), Kerri Norville (Susanna) NOTES: Video occasionally has minor obstructions at the bottom of the screen but no action is missed. Doesn't include the ‘can’t stop this feeling’ finale. & Juliet - West End - February, 2020 (hitmewithyourbethshot's master) FORMAT:  MTS CAST: Grace Mouat (u/s Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), Ivan de Freitas (u/s Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Christopher Parkinson (s/w Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Sophie Usher (s/w Gwynne), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy), Dillon Scott-Lewis (Richard), Kerri Norville (Susanna), Josh Baker (s/w Thomas) & Juliet - West End - March, 2020 (queenofthedead's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (SD) CAST: Grace Mouat (u/s Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Alex Tranter (u/s Romeo), Dillon Scott-Lewis (u/s Francois), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (u/s May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Ivan de Freitas (Lord Capulet/Sly), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Billy Nevers (s/w Cuthbert), Sophie Usher (s/w Gwynne), Josh Baker (s/w Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Kerri Norville (Susanna) NOTES: Lots of wide shots with some nice close-ups too. A good video for seeing the set and choreography. Grace has really grown into the role since her debut! & Juliet - West End - March, 2020 (2) (Highlights) (queenofthedead's master) FORMAT:  MP4 (HD) CAST: Miriam-Teak Lee (Juliet), Kirstie Skivington (u/s Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Billy Nevers (s/w Lord Capulet/Cuthbert), Jaye Marshall (Margaret/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Grace Mouat (Judith), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy), Kerri Norville (Susanna), Josh Baker (s/w Thomas) NOTES: 2.53GB in mp4 files/1:06:55 Notes: Mostly very obstructed but a fun cover show with Kirstie as Anne, Billy’s Debut as Lord Capulet, Josh as the bathroom attendant and Jaye as Benvolio. & Juliet - West End - November, 2019 (queenofthedead's master) FORMAT:  MTS CAST: Grace Mouat (u/s Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Ivan de Freitas (Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Sophie Usher (s/w Gwynne), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy) NOTES: First video released of the show in London and Grace’s amazing Juliet debut! Sophie swings on in her track. Video wanders a little bit in the first 5 mins but then great. Not obstructed by any heads. Includes HQ bows. Nft until 1st april 2020 & Juliet - West End - November, 2019 (2) (hitmewithyourbethshot's master) FORMAT:  MTS CAST: Miriam-Teak Lee (Juliet), Cassidy Janson (Anne Hathaway), Oliver Tompsett (William Shakespeare), Jordan Luke Gage (Romeo), Tim Mahendran (Francois), Arun Blair-Mangat (May), Melanie La Barrie (Nurse "Angelique"), David Bedella (Lance), Jocasta Almgill (Lady Capulet/Nell), Ivan de Freitas (Lord Capulet/Sly), Kirstie Skivington (Eleanor/Benvolio), Antoine Murray-Straughan (Augustine), Nathan Lorainey-Dineen (Gregory), Sophie Usher (s/w Gwynne), Alex Tranter (Henry), Rhian Duncan (Imogen), Kieran Lai (Kempe), Danielle Fiamanya (Lucy), Dillon Scott-Lewis (Richard), Kerri Norville (Susanna)

[bboyplankton]

R&B/Pop/Alternative Albums 2023

Dende - 95' Civic

Tone Stith - P.O.V. - EP

Arin Ray - Phases III - EP

Jungle - Volcano

Chris Brown - 11:11

Elmiene - Marking My Time - EP

Masego - Masego

Sam Smith – Gloria

Phabo - Don't Get Too Cozy

Ama Lou - I Came Home Late

Casper Sage - Synthesis+ - EP

JMSN - Soft Spot

Abby Jasmine - Growing Pains

Emotional Oranges - Still Emo

Vedo - 7

Kenyon Dixon - The R&B You Love

Kyra - as things grow

Rory - I Thought It'd Be Different

Mahalia - IRL (Deluxe)

RAAHiim - But if iiM Honest

Jessie Ware - That! Feels Good!

Victoria Monet - Jaguar II

Jorja Smith - falling or flying

Vedo - Mood Swings

Jordan Ward - moreward(Forward)

Austin Millz – Breathwork – EP

Azekel – Analyze Love

Teezo Touchdown – How Do You Sleep At Night?

Rum.gold – U Street Anthology

Sebastian Mikael – Phileo Deluxe – EP

Leon Thomas – Electric Dusk

Brent Faiyaz – Larger Than Life

Jacob Lattimore – Closure – EP

BJ the Chicago Kid – Gravy

Kiana Ledé – Grudges

Sabrina Claudio – Archives & Lullabies

Tay Iwar – Summer Breeze

The Teskey Brothers – The Winding Way

Adi Oasis – Lotus Glow

Ellie Ingram – Bad Behavior

Dende – Before We Crash – EP

Saint Harison – lost a friend – EP

Leonard Charles – Heaven – EP

Raheem Devaughn – The Summer of Love

Sy Ari Da Kid – Toxicity At It’s Finest

Omarion – Full Circle: Sonic Book 1

Jane Handcock – World of Women

Khamari – A Brief Nirvana

BLK ODYSSY – Diamonds & Freaks

Elhae – Forotten Flowers

Ambré – who’s loving you? – EP

Noah Guy – Who’s Taken Time?! (Act II) – EP

Chase Shakur – it’s not you, it’s me…it’s love

6lack – Since I Have A Lover

Burna Boy – I Told Them…

Majid Jordan – Good People

Cleo Sol – Gold

Alexis Ffrench – Christmas Piano with Alexis

Terrace Martin & Alex Isley – I Left My Heart In…

Baby Rose – Through & Through

THEY. – Nü Moon

Eric Bellinger – 1(800)HIT-EAZY: Line 2

Jozzy – Songs for Women, Free Game for Niggas (Deluxe)

Diddy – The Love Album: Off the Grid

Paramore – This Is Why

October London – The Rebirth of Marvin

Romy Dya – Transformation – EP

Buju Banton – Born for Greatness

Fall Out Boy – So Much (For) Stardust

Kali Uchis – Red Glow in Venus

Destin Conrad – Submissive

Mariah the Scientist – To Be Eaten Alive

Queen Naija – After the Butterflies – EP

Justine Skye – Dark Side

Maeta – When I Hear Your Name

Love Moor – Love – EP

Valerie Omari – Closure – EP

Mannywellz – Mr. Olúlala – EP

Xenia Manasseh – Love/Hate Pt. 1

Cedric Brazle – …What I Know Now – EP

Selah Sue – Persona (Deluxe)

Ciara – CiCi

Tinashe – BB/Ang3l

Idman – Risk: Reloaded

ATSN – Where Do We Go From Here?

Destra – Unchained

Chiiild – Better Luck In The Next Life

Biako – Feelings Happen

Jastin Martin – Miss Me Yet?

Daniel Caesar – Never Enough (Bonus Version)

Tink – Thanks 4 Nothing

Sekou – Out of Mind – EP

Roy Woods – Mixed Emotions

Terrace Martin & James Fauntleroy – Nova – EP

Forest Claudette – Everything Was Green – EP

Musiq Soulchild & Hit-Boy – Victims & Villains

Traetwothree – Long Story Short – EP

Kevin Ross – Midnight Microdose, Vol. 1 – EP

Lavi$h – You Made A Big Mistake

Chlöe – In Pieces

Cleo Sol – Heaven

Kaleem Taylor – Ember

Adrian Dzvuke – Don’t Worry About It Sweetheart – EP

Devon Gilfillian – Love You Anyway

Nonso Amadi – When It Blooms

Ellie Goulding – Higher Than Heaven (Deluxe)

Brandy – Christmas with Brandy

King Sis – Pendulum – EP

Ebony Riley – ebony – EP

Lojay – Gangster Romantic

Popcaan – Great Is He

Jean Deaux – Heavy

TheARTI$t – ARTchives

Cisco Swank – More Better

Winny – Winny

Yung Bleu – Love Scars II

Hamzaa & 1srael – Rush – EP

Tim Lyre – MASTA

Kevin Ross – Midnight Microdose, Vol. 2 – EP

Ed Sheeran – - (Deluxe)

Saleka – Séance

Gorillaz – Cracker Island

James Blake – Playing Robots Into Heaven

Joya Mooi – What’s Around the Corner

Safe – Safe & Sound

Dinner Party – Enigmatic Society

Yakul – Outlines – EP

T-Pain – On Top of The Covers

Omah Lay – Boy Alone (Deluxe)

Angie Stone – Love Language

Jon Batiste – World Radio Music

Summer Walker – Clear 2: Soft Life – EP

PinkPanthress – Heaven Knows

Amari Noelle – Take II

Cee-Lo Green & Jack Splash – Serious – EP

Ed Sheeran – Autumn Variations

Mac DeMarco – 5 Easy Hot Dogs

Sabrina Carpenter – emails I can’t send fwd:

Arlo Parks – My Soft Machine (Deluxe)

Laufey – Bewitched

Keke Palmer – Big Boss

Jayda G – Guy

Gracie Abrams – Good Riddance

J. Brown – The Art of Making Love

Wanmor – WanMor

[sartorialadventure]

Ebony Magazine, September 2015, feat. Chantelle 'Winnie' Harlow, Samantha Archibald, Milan Dixon, Fatima Siad, Diandra Forrest, and Marquita Pring

[blackkudos]

Tammi Terrell

Tammi Terrell (born Thomasina Winifred Montgomery; April 29, 1945 – March 16, 1970) was an American recording artist, widely known as a star singer for Motown Records during the 1960s, notably for a series of duets with singer Marvin Gaye.

Terrell's career began as a teenager, first recording for Scepter/Wand Records, before spending nearly two years as a member of James Brown's Revue, recording for Brown's Try Me label. After a period attending college, Terrell recorded briefly for Checker Records, before signing with Motown in 1965. With Gaye, Terrell scored seven Top 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" which was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing" and "You're All I Need to Get By". Terrell's career was interrupted when she collapsed into Gaye's arms as the two performed at a concert at Hampden–Sydney College on October 14, 1967, with Terrell later being diagnosed with a brain tumor. She had eight unsuccessful surgeries before succumbing to the illness on March 16, 1970 at the age of 24.

Early life

Terrell was born as Thomasina Winifred Montgomery in Philadelphia, to Jennie (née Graham) and Thomas Montgomery. Jennie was an actress and Thomas was a barbershop owner and local politician. According to her sister, their mother was "mentally ill."

Terrell was the oldest of two siblings. According to the Unsung documentary, her sister Ludie said her parents thought Terrell would be a boy and therefore she would be named after her father. However, when she was born, the parents settled on the name Thomasina, nicknaming her "Tommie." She later changed it to "Tammy" after seeing the film, Tammy and the Bachelor, and hearing its theme song, "Tammy", at the age of 12.

According to Ludie's book, My Sister Tommie - The Real Tammi Terrell, Terrell was raped by three boys at the age of 11. Around this time, she started to have migraine headaches. While it was not thought to be of significance at the time, family members would later state that these headaches might have been related to her later diagnosis of brain cancer.

Terrell attended Germantown High School in Philadelphia.

Career

Early recordings

In 1960, Terrell signed under the Wand subsidiary of Scepter Records after being discovered by Luther Dixon, recording the ballad, "If You See Bill", under the name Tammy Montgomery and doing demos for The Shirelles. After another single, Terrell left the label and, after being introduced to James Brown, signed a contract with him and began singing backup for his Revue concert tours. In 1963, she recorded the song "I Cried". Released on Brown's Try Me Records, it became her first charting single, reaching No. 99 on the Billboard Hot 100.

After this tenure ended, Terrell signed with Checker Records and released the Bert Berns-produced "If I Would Marry You", a duet with Jimmy Radcliffe, which Terrell co-composed. Following this relative failure, Terrell announced a semi-retirement from the music business and enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania where she majored in pre-med, staying at the school for two years. In the middle of this, Terrell was asked by Jerry Butler to sing with him in a series of shows in nightclubs. After an arrangement was made by Butler to assure Terrell that she could continue her schooling, she began touring with Butler. In April 1965, during a performance at the Twenty Grand Club in Detroit, she was spotted by Motown CEO Berry Gordy, who promised to sign her to Motown. Terrell agreed and signed with the label on April 29, her 20th birthday. Before releasing her first single with Motown's Tamla subsidiary, "I Can't Believe You Love Me," Gordy suggested a name change.

Figuring "Tammy Montgomery" was too long of a name to put on a single, Gordy changed it to "Tammi Terrell". He felt this name screamed "sex appeal". "I Can't Believe You Love Me" became Terrell's first R&B top forty single, followed almost immediately by "Come On and See Me". In 1966, Terrell recorded two future classics, Stevie Wonder's "All I Do (Is Think About You)" and The Isley Brothers' "This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You)". After the release of her first single on Motown, Terrell joined the Motortown Revue opening for The Temptations.

Success with Marvin Gaye

In early 1967, Motown hired Terrell to sing duets with Marvin Gaye, who had achieved duet success with Mary Wells and Kim Weston as well as having recorded duets with Oma Heard. During recording sessions, Gaye would recall later that he did not know how gifted Terrell was until they began singing together. At first the duets were recorded separately. For sessions of their first recording, the Ashford & Simpson composition, "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", both Gaye and Terrell recorded separate versions. Motown remixed the vocals and edited out the background vocals, giving just Gaye and Terrell vocal dominance. The song became a crossover pop hit in the spring of 1967, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the R&B charts and making Terrell a star. Their follow-up, "Your Precious Love", became an even bigger hit, reaching No. 5 on the pop chart and No. 2 on the R&B chart. At the end of the year, the duo scored another top ten single with "If I Could Build My Whole World Around You", which peaked at No. 10 on the pop chart and No. 2 on the R&B chart. The song's B-side, the Marvin Gaye composition "If This World Were Mine", became a modest hit on both charts (No. 68 pop, No. 27 R&B). Gaye would later cite the song as "one of Tammi's favorites". All four songs were included on Gaye and Terrell's first duet album, United, released in the late summer of 1967. Throughout that year, Gaye and Terrell began performing together and Terrell became a vocal and performance inspiration for the shy and laid-back Gaye, who hated live performing. The duo also performed together on television shows to their hits. They were voted the No. 1 R&B duo in Cash Box magazine's Annual Year-End Survey in 1970.

Cancer diagnosis

While Terrell was finally being established as a star, the migraines and headaches she had suffered from childhood were becoming more constant. While she complained of pains, she insisted to people close to her that she was well enough to perform. However, on October 14, 1967, while performing "Your Precious Love" with Gaye at Hampden–Sydney College, just outside the town of Farmville, Virginia, Terrell collapsed into Gaye's arms onstage. Shortly after returning from Virginia, doctors diagnosed a malignant tumor on the right side of her brain. She underwent brain surgery at Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia on January 13, 1968.

After recovering from her first surgery, Terrell returned to Hitsville studios in Detroit and recorded "You're All I Need to Get By". Both that song and "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing", reached No. 1 on the R&B charts. Despite Terrell's optimism, her tumor worsened, requiring more surgeries. By 1969, Terrell had retired from live performances as she had been ordered by doctors not to perform due to her tumors. Motown issued Terrell's first and only solo album, Irresistible, in early 1969. Terrell was too ill to promote the recordings. There was no new repertoire on the album: all tracks had been recorded earlier and subsequently shelved for some time.

Both Marvin Gaye and Valerie Simpson gave different stories on how the production of Terrell's and Gaye's third album together, Easy, went about. According to reports, Terrell had gotten so ill from her operations that she could not record, and Motown opted to have Valerie Simpson sub in for Terrell, a report that was repeated in the book Marvin Gaye: What's Going On and the Last Days of the Motown Sound. Gaye would later say the move was "another moneymaking scheme on BG's [Berry Gordy's] part". Valerie Simpson, on the other hand, stated that the ailing Terrell was brought into the studio when she was strong enough to record over Simpson's guide vocals, insisting Terrell had sung on the album. Easy produced the singles "Good Lovin' Ain't Easy to Come By", "What You Gave Me", "California Soul" and the UK top ten hit, "The Onion Song". Late in 1969, Terrell made her final public appearance at the Apollo Theater where Marvin Gaye was performing. As soon as Gaye spotted Terrell, he rushed to her side and the duo began singing "You're All I Need to Get By" together. They were given a standing ovation by the public.

Personal life

In 1962, 17-year-old Terrell became involved in an abusive relationship with James Brown, who was 12 years her senior. One night on the road in 1963, Terrell left Brown after he assaulted her for not watching his entire performance. Bobby Bennett, former member of the Famous Flames, witnessed the incident. "He beat Tammi Terrell terrible. She was bleeding, shedding blood. Tammi left him because she didn't want her butt whipped," said Bennett.

During the Motortown Revue in 1966, Terrell embarked on a torrid romance with The Temptations lead singer David Ruffin. That year, Terrell accepted Ruffin's surprise marriage proposal. After Terrell announced their engagement onstage during an appearance together, she discovered that he was already married. Ruffin had a wife, three children, and another girlfriend in Detroit. This revelation and Ruffin's drug addiction led to violent arguments. Terrell told Ebony magazine in 1969 that she believed her emotional state during this relationship was a contributing factor to her headaches, which would come after quarrels. In 1967, Terrell ended their relationship after Ruffin hit her in the head with his motorcycle helmet. It was rumored that Ruffin also hit Terrell in the head with a hammer, which further complicated her unknown condition. However, this rumor was dispelled in Terrell's Unsung episode.

At the time of Terrell's death, she was engaged to Dr. Ernest "Ernie" Garrett. He was a doctor at the hospital where she had been treated.

Death

Because of ongoing complications of brain cancer, by early 1970, Terrell was confined to a wheelchair, suffered from blindness, hair loss, and weighed only 93 pounds (42 kg). Following her eighth and final operation on January 21, 1970, Terrell went into a coma. She died on March 16, a month shy of her 25th birthday. Terrell's funeral was held at the Janes Methodist Church in Philadelphia. At the funeral, Gaye delivered a final eulogy while "You're All I Need to Get By" was playing. According to Terrell's fiancé Dr. Ernest "Ernie" Garrett, who knew Gaye, her mother angrily barred everyone at Motown from her funeral, except for Gaye, whom she felt was Terrell's closest friend.

Gaye never fully got over Terrell's death, according to several biographers who have stated that Terrell's death led Gaye to depression and drug abuse. In addition, Gaye's classic album What's Going On, an introspective, low-key work which dealt with mature themes released in 1971, was in part a reaction to Terrell's death.

Legacy

In May 2015, Deadline reported that actress Kat Graham was cast to portray Montgomery in a biopic based on her life. The untitled project was written by Maryam Myika Day and to be produced by Robert Teitel, Rose Ganguzza, and Hilary Shor.

Awards and nominations

Terrell and Marvin Gaye were nominated for Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance, Vocal or Instrumental for their song "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" at the 10th Annual Grammy Awards in 1968. The song was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.