#spotlight at paramount

[deadbrokerek]

Free Show Long Island! Pete Donnelly of The Figgs w/ Adult Magic & Trifles @ Spotlight Art Bar at The Paramount! (Poster by Doom Toof)

[shinigami-striker]

Same Birthday: September 15 | Sunday, 09.15.24

Same birthday, featuring:

Ben Schwartz

most prominent role(s): Sonic the Hedgehog/Sonic Wachowski - Sonic the Hedgehog series (movies; 2020-present) & Knuckles (limited series; 2024)

Colleen O'Shaughnessey

most prominent role(s): Miles "Tails" Prower (video games)/Tails Wachowski (movies) - Sonic the Hedgehog series (movies and video games; 2014-present)

Scott McNeil

most prominent role(s): Logan/Wolverine - X-Men: Evolution (TV series; 2000-2003)

[thebunnednun]

LOYALTY [Chapter 2]

Katsuki Bakugou x Sugar Baby! Reader

Summary: Fuck a breakup, you ever have your fiance and partner of 8 years dump you during his promotion party in front of your bosses and the whole office with the girl he told you, “Don’t worry about,” on his arm?

The man you moved continents to support and move in with while you worked from home and helped promote his hero career because you thought he loved you and he called it an investment in your future together while you just did it out of love?

Welp, now he’s kicked you out in a strange land and you’ve gotta make it on your own. When you can't get a new job or apartment and tuition is almost due: you’ve got two options: Strip it or lose.

And I guess the angry blond that keeps coming back to your club wants to help you too.

I've been holding off on releasing more chapters because chapter 1 didn't do so well. But this is taking off on ao3 so I'm giving it another chance.

Chapter 1 is found here The poster for it contains hints for the next chapters.

Chapter Song is: Cyber sex by Doja Cat

------------------------Chapter 2: Behind the Glass-----------------------

The neon lights of the club flickered, casting a vibrant glow that bounced off the walls and mirrors. The bass of the music pulsed through the floor, a rhythmic thrum that set the tempo for the night. You adjusted your mask and wig in the mirror, ensuring that your identity remained concealed. The anonymity was a small comfort in a job that offered little else.

Marshmallow peeked into your side of the room, her face beaming with encouragement. “You’re going to do great tonight,” she said, her voice warm and reassuring. Her own outfit—a soft, lavender bodysuit with delicate lace trim—made her look like a whimsical dream. “Just remember, they’re here for the show. Give them something to remember.”

You nodded, trying to shake off the nervous energy that bubbled beneath your skin. You had been working behind the glass for a few weeks now, learning the nuances of the routine, mastering the pole, and getting accustomed to the constant surveillance of the security cameras. It was a strange existence, dancing in isolation while the world outside remained a mystery.

The glass panel separated you from the rest of the room, a barrier that allowed you to perform without being seen. On the other side, the room was filled with the occasional murmur of voices and the clinking of glasses. You focused on the task at hand, pulling yourself into a graceful routine that combined elegance with just a hint of spice.

As you began your dance, the rhythm of the music seemed to blend with the beat of your heart. The movements flowed naturally, your body moving in perfect harmony with the rhythm. Your mind wandered to the surprises of the club—especially the frequent visits from pro heroes. It was an odd revelation, but not entirely unexpected. In a place like this, discretion was paramount, and the allure of anonymity must have been appealing even to those in the spotlight.

Halfway through your routine, you heard a yawn from the other side of the glass. The sound cut through the music, startling you momentarily. You couldn’t help but smile at the familiarity of the gesture. It was Marshmallow, likely on her break.

“Are you really that bored?” you called out, your voice muffled by the glass.

The response came with a chuckle. “Not bored, just waiting for you to finish up. Got a special client tonight—one of those ‘high roller’ types. They usually want something a bit… more unique.”

You finished the last of your routine, striking a final pose before retreating to the changing area. Marshmallow was already waiting for you, her eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and sympathy.

“Special client, huh?” you asked, pulling off your mask and adjusting your wig.

“Yep,” she replied, leaning casually against the wall. “Sometimes it’s just a big spender, sometimes it’s someone looking for a bit of extra fun. Just do your best and keep it professional. And if they try anything… well, you know who to call.”

You nodded, feeling a shiver of anticipation mixed with anxiety. As you prepared for the special client, Marshmallow’s reassuring presence was a comfort. You had grown to trust her in the short time you had known her. She had become a mentor of sorts, guiding you through the intricacies of this world.

When the time came, you stepped into the room where the special client awaited. The setup was familiar—a dimly lit space with a plush sofa positioned in the back. The client’s silhouette was obscured by the shadows, and you could make out little beyond the outline of a large figure.

You began your routine, pouring all of your new skills and emotion into the performance. The glass barrier between you and the client created a sense of separation, allowing you to maintain your composure while still delivering an intimate experience. You did your best to remember everything the girls taught you earlier and tried to channel your own sexiness into the dance. 

The minutes seemed to blend together, punctuated by the occasional murmur from the client. As you finished your routine and prepared to leave, you felt a strange mix of relief and disappointment. The job was done, and you had managed to maintain your anonymity once again.

Back in the dressing room, Marshmallow was waiting with a smile. “How’d it go?” she asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity.

“Not too bad,” you replied, trying to sound casual. “He left a good tip too.”

She gave you a reassuring pat on the back. “Good to hear. Now, let’s hit the gym. We’ve got to keep those moves sharp.”

After your shifts, you and Micheal, or Marshmallow as she was known in the club, headed toward the gym after another grueling night, she glanced over at you with a thoughtful expression. The treadmill’s rhythmic thud matched your steady pace, and you could see her reflection in the gym’s large mirrors.

“You know,” Micheal said, her voice breaking through the thump of the treadmill, “there’s other ways to make money online. Not just the stuff you’re doing now.”

You looked over at her, curiosity piqued. Micheal was a striking woman, her skin a rich, deep brown that glowed under the gym’s fluorescent lights. Her hair was styled in a sleek, ponytail that framed her face perfectly. She wore a workout outfit that accentuated her strong physique, but it was her eyes—full of knowledge and warmth—that drew you in.

“I’m already working online during the day,” you replied, trying to keep your voice casual.

Micheal chuckled and shook her head, pulling out her phone. “That’s cute. But there’s more out there, you know. Look.” She turned the screen towards you, revealing a list of adult apps and websites. Your cheeks flushed as you glanced away, feeling a bit embarrassed.

“Don’t be a prude,” Micheal teased, her smile playful. “You don’t even have to show your face if you don’t want to.”

You considered her suggestion, weighing it against your pressing financial needs. The tuition and apartment costs were mounting, and every bit of extra income would help. “I’ll think about it,” you said, focusing on your workout to distract yourself.

When you returned home, exhaustion hit you like a ton of bricks. You slumped into your chair and sifted through a stack of rejection letters, each one a reminder of how tough the job market was. After scheduling more interviews, you allowed yourself a short nap, hoping it would recharge you.

The nap, however, turned into a nightmare. You dreamt of your ex, his voice insistent, pressuring you to move to Japan with him. His words echoed in your mind, manipulating and demanding, until you woke up drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. The fear and anxiety from the dream clung to you, adding to your already fraught emotions.

You sat up, wiping your face with a shaky hand, and remembered Micheal’s advice. You fumbled for your phone and shot her a text, asking about the safest website where you wouldn’t have to get nude.

Micheal’s reply came swiftly. She sent you a link to “Secret Admirer,” an app where the user is in control. “It’s a sugar baby app, but the baby calls the shots. You can add a shopping list link and build a profile with pics and videos. Within a few hours, you should start getting messages.”

You stared at the link, your mind racing with possibilities. Micheal’s explanation gave you a small glimmer of hope. “Thanks <33,” you texted back, gratitude mingling with apprehension.

‘Fuck it I’m doing this.’

That evening, you set up your account on “Secret Admirer.” With the help of makeup, filters, and another wig, you created a completely new persona. You named her “Princess Diamond” the antithesis of your real self. Where you were reserved and introspective, Princess was a brash, demanding spoiled brat with an insatiable appetite for luxury. 

You looked at the final result on your screen, feeling a mix of satisfaction and discomfort. This new identity was a way to protect yourself, to shield your true self from the harshness of your circumstances. You hoped it would work, that it would provide the financial cushion you needed to get back on your feet.

At least you hoped it would. 

The basement storage room was transformed into your temporary haven. It wasn’t much—just a simple space with concrete walls and a basic light fixture—but you were determined to make it livable. You assembled your old bed frame and draped plain white sheets over it, creating a semblance of comfort. Around the room, you hung colorful banners and posters, adding splashes of personality to the otherwise drab space. The long changing divider you set up did its best to conceal the boxes of your other belongings, creating an illusion of privacy.

Satisfied with your efforts, you propped your phone against a stack of boxes and dialed Micheal for her input. The call connected quickly, and Micheal’s familiar face appeared on the screen. 

“Hey, what’s up?” she greeted, her voice carrying a tone of casual curiosity. 

“I’m about to do a show,” you said, trying to sound upbeat despite the gnawing anxiety in your stomach. You flipped the camera to give her a view of your makeshift setup.

Micheal’s eyes darted around the room as she took in the scene. Her expression shifted from impressed to contemplative. “Nice work on the quick thinking,” she said with a smile. “Crafty, but you do know it’s going to need to be more hyper-feminine if you’re going to really sell this, right?”

You sighed, looking around at the modest decor. The banners and posters were a good start, but the room still felt incomplete. The bed frame was plain, and the sheets were ordinary. The divider was practical but hardly glamorous. “Just what I was thinking, any ideas?” you said, feeling a bit tired.

Micheal nodded, her eyes narrowing slightly as she thought. “Hmmm, I have an idea. Just keep taking pics and videos of yourself for now. I’ll be in touch with more details.”

She blew a few playful kisses into the camera before ending the call, leaving you alone with your thoughts. You turned your attention back to your profile, updating it with the new photos and videos you’d taken. Despite the fatigue and frustration, a small spark of excitement flickered within you. There were a few new messages waiting, and the prospect of new connections invigorated you.

As you were thinking of settling in for the evening, your phone buzzed with a new text from Micheal. “Join my live,” it read. Your confusion was soon overshadowed by curiosity as you prepared to join her stream.

You set your phone up on a stand and waited for the connection. Micheal appeared on screen, her usual vibrant self. Only she didn't have a top on. The stream ran smoothly, with Micheal interacting with her audience and discussing various topics with you. Everything seemed normal until Micheal suddenly shooed you away from the screen, her demeanor shifting to something more serious.

“Alright, now listen,” she instructed, her voice taking on a commanding tone. “I want you to turn on your music and point the camera towards the divider. Put on a show for me.”

Realization dawned on you. Micheal was supposed to be doing a squirt show right now, and it was up to you to make it engaging. You took a deep breath, trying to steady your nerves. You started one of your more seductive routines, moving behind the divider. The muted, private space was your sanctuary, and you poured your energy into the performance, swaying and winding with practiced ease. 

It was ironically a little easier to strip down to your panties in this storage unit than in the club. As you danced, you heard the constant ding of notifications from your phone. The influx of messages and tips was almost overwhelming, and the steady hum of your phone’s vibrations grew louder. It wasn’t long before the phone started to overheat and beep as the screen became uncomfortably warm. You scrambled to throw on your jeans and sweater before you placed the phone in front of a fan, trying to cool it down before it shut off entirely.

The stream ended abruptly as the phone’s temperature soared, and you were kicked out of the live session. Your heart raced as you checked your account, eyes widening in disbelief at the amount of money that had accumulated. The funds were substantial, far more than you had anticipated.

That wasn’t what shocked you though. 

Alongside the influx of money, there was a transfer from Micheal with a note that read, “Buy yourself some pretty things, xxxooo~” Her generosity was both a relief and a source of renewed hope. You marveled at the support Micheal had provided, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation.

“I love that woman!”

With your phone finally cooled down, you took a moment to reflect on the evening’s events. The unexpected success of your performance was a beacon of hope in an otherwise tumultuous time. Micheal’s kindness and the financial cushion she had provided were a lifeline, giving you the breathing room you needed to continue rebuilding your life.

You closed your eyes, feeling a cautious optimism about the future. The shit show was far from over, but with support from Micheal, you felt a bit more secure. The stream left you feeling a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. It was way easier than working at the club. 

After the whirlwind of emotions, you found yourself staring at your phone, hands trembling as you recorded a voice message for Micheal. You knew she'd probably be in the shower right now to clean off from her "performance". Your voice wavered as you spoke, a mix of disbelief and gratitude evident in your tone.

“Hey Micheal, I— I don’t even know how to thank you. How did you do this? Why? I’m still in shock!” 

You sent the message and waited, your heart pounding in anticipation. A few moments later, Micheal’s reply came through, her voice warm and reassuring.

“Hey there, calm down. I was hyping up your profile during my show. My clients were really interested, and it got you a solid fanbase right off the bat. You’ve got a lot of potential, and they’re excited to meet you. Just make sure to keep everything separate from your real life. Buy things that fit your online persona so you don’t get too attached.”

Her advice was practical and wise, but it only fueled the mix of relief and anxiety you felt. “Okay,” you replied, taking a deep breath. “I’ll get on it. Thanks so much for everything.” You blew her some kisses that you caught before you both hung up and immediately jumped onto Pinterest, scrolling through endless pages of Y2K fashion and room decor ideas.

Your room, now to be decorated in pastel pinks and nostalgic patterns, needed a bit more polish to fit the vibe. You envisioned adding bold prints, glittering accents, and maybe a few playful neon signs to complete the look. With a clear plan in mind, you set about buying new items for your space, making sure to keep the majority of the money aside for your tuition and a new apartment.

Okay, maybe you were looking at that stuff because your ex never let you decorate the apartment how you wanted. 

Just before bed, you decided to go live, just one more time.

As you started the stream, you were pleasantly surprised to see a handful of subscribers already in the comment section. The messages began to flood in:

StarGazer88 : Wow, you look stunning! The setup is amazing!

RetroFan23 : Your room is so cute! Love the decor!

FrightenFae : You’re absolutely beautiful! Can’t wait to see more!

You grinned at the screen, feeling a rush of excitement. Channeling the confidence Micheal had coached you on, you began to speak with a playful, almost teasing tone. “Hey everyone! Thanks for joining me tonight. I’m thinking of doing a Q&A show. What do you guys think?”

The chat erupted with enthusiasm, a chorus of “Yes!” and “Definitely!” filling the comments. Some viewers also requested a room tour, and you decided to make a playful challenge out of it.

“Well, if someone tips $500, I’ll do it,” you said with a wink and a smile, your voice dripping with sweet, sultry charm.

To your astonishment, the screen quickly filled with notifications of tips, and within moments, a user named Spiceman420 had tipped the entire $500.

“Hey, Spiceman420, thank you so much!” you said, beaming at the camera. Your genuine smile lit up the screen, and the viewers went wild with excitement.

As the tips continued to roll in, you tried to keep your composure, but your phone was starting to overheat again. “Guys, please slow down! My phone can’t handle this!” you pleaded, trying to keep your voice light and engaging.

Determined to keep your promise, you stood up and gave the camera a slow, dramatic pan around the room. “Here’s the room tour,” you said with a laugh, showing off the wall decorations and your modest setup.

The comments exploded with praise:

StarGazer88 : The room looks fantastic! Love the vibe!

YourMom69 : It's so cute! You’ve done a great job!

Spiceman420 : Looks pretty barren, Princess.

The last comment caught your eye. You hesitated, then decided to address it directly. “Oh, I actually just moved in and this place was bigger than I expected,” you fibbed with a smile, trying to keep the tone light and engaging.

More questions and compliments came in, many of them asking where you were from and remarking on how sweet you seemed despite your self proclaimed bratty persona. “We’ll see about that,” you joked, winking at the camera. “Thank you all so much for the support! I’m so grateful.”

You yawned prettily behind your hand, then blew a kiss to the camera. “Thanks for joining me tonight. I’m going to call it in. See you all soon!” 

After ending the stream, you took a refreshing shower to wash off the sweat and exhaustion. As you checked your phone, you saw a notification of a $5,000 check from Spiceman420, accompanied by a personal message: 

“For your new apartment, Princess.”

You stared at the screen, feeling a mix of disbelief and gratitude. The generous gesture was overwhelming, and you found yourself on the verge of tears once more. You quickly sent a photo of your hands forming a heart symbol, adding a simple “Thank you so much” in your message.

The read receipt confirmed that Spiceman420 had seen your reply, but there was no immediate response. You sighed, feeling a bit of relief. The money would go a long way in securing your new place and starting fresh.

With a hopeful heart, you settled into your new routine, feeling a bit more secure in your journey forward. The night had been a whirlwind, but the unexpected support and the small victories kept you moving forward.

Bakugou sat slumped in a velvet armchair, his fingers scrolling lazily through his phone as the club buzzed with life around him. The low hum of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the occasional burst of laughter from his fellow pros filled the air, but it all washed over him like background noise. He was here because he’d been dragged along—again. Designated driver, the role he always got stuck with because everyone else wanted to get plastered and he didn’t trust those dumbasses after what happened the first time.

He stifled a sigh, his eyes narrowing in disdain at the scene unfolding around him. A couple of bikini baristas were eyeing him from across the bar, giggling and whispering to each other, clearly trying to muster the courage to approach him. He didn’t even bother looking up, though; he knew exactly how it would go. One of them would sidle up to him, all flirty smiles and batting eyelashes, and then he’d spend the next few hours scrubbing glitter and body spray off his skin because she’d gotten too handsy. It was more trouble than it was worth.

And to top it all off, his favorite performer wasn’t even here tonight. That had been the one thing he’d looked forward to—seeing her. The first time he’d stumbled upon her had been a total accident, courtesy of Denki, who’d practically shoved him into that private room with an exasperated “Loosen up, dude!” And honestly? Bakugou had been pissed at first, but then she started dancing. It wasn’t even sexual as it was…. almost romantic? It felt personal, like she was performing for just him after a long day. Like it was only the both of them in that warm darkness. 

There was something about her. She never asked personal questions, never tried to flirt or tease like the others. She just danced, with an almost ethereal grace, and then she was gone, leaving him in peace. He didn’t know why, but he found that comforting. Maybe it was because she didn’t try to pry into his life, or maybe it was because he could just sit there, unwind, and not have to deal with anyone’s expectations.

Maybe it was because his mouth didn’t get in the way for once. 

He didn’t ask to see her up close, though. He knew that would break the illusion, the little bubble of escapism he’d found himself enjoying. Did he want a relationship? Sometimes the thought crossed his mind, but between his career, the press constantly hounding him, and his deep-seated distrust of people in general, he couldn’t be bothered. 

He was scrolling through his phone, bored out of his mind, when he overheard a couple of other pros talking about some app. Something about it caught his attention, just enough to make him curious. He quickly made up a bullshit username and started browsing. 

That’s when he found her. He paused, thumb hovering over the screen as he watched the live stream. It was her—it had to be. The dance routine was so familiar, almost muscle memory to him by now. His heartbeat quickened as he watched, and before he knew it, he’d hit the subscribe button. He hadn’t bought the premium subscription to see the pics or videos on her profile yet. No, he wanted to save that for later. 

Then he didn’t even think twice before tipping the $500, his fingers moving on instinct. Katuski wasn’t sure why he’d done it, but when she thanked him personally, her voice soft and warm, he felt something in his chest tighten. He forced himself to keep his expression neutral, refusing to let his face betray how flustered he felt.

Fuck, he was blushing. In public, no less. 

She showed off her room then, clearly just set up, and Bakugou couldn’t help but feel a pang of something like sympathy. So that’s why she wasn’t at the club—she was busy moving in. It made sense now. He found himself feeling oddly moved by her situation, enough to make him send her more money without really thinking about it.

He slumped further into the chair, his mind racing. What was he even doing? He was the number two pro hero in Japan. He’d achieved everything he’d ever wanted, and yet here he was, sitting in a strip club, feeling lost and bored out of his mind. He had everything he could ever want, and yet... now what? 

Bakugou’s gaze flicked back to his phone. The notification from her stream still lingered on the screen, a reminder of the strange connection he formed in his mind. Maybe that was the answer he’d been searching for—something new, something different. Something that wasn’t tied to being a hero. 

He didn’t know what the hell he was doing, but for once, he didn’t mind not having all the answers. He’d just see where this path took him.

And then he saw your message.

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

Taglist: @elarakive, @thealtofvalleyxdoodles, the-dumpster-fire-of-life, If you wanna be added lemme know!

That was the first chapter! So far there are 9 posted on my ao3 account. Chapter 1 is here

Chapter 3 is here

I own none of the images or art!!!

Be sure to check out my other works and leave likes and comments, they really help. I have a Farmer Bakugou x Gardener Reader here in the master list. Drop a follow as well if you please. Don’t be shy to leave me a little reblog if you want.

I promise I bite~

See you soon my loves!!

(｡･ω･｡)ﾉ♡

[truevedicastrology]

Lilith Configuration and Its Revelations on Your Erotic Identity xxx

The lasting cosmic journey of Lilith in Aries unveils a narrative of audacity, impulsiveness, and a fearless embrace of dominance within the confines of the bedroom.

In the realm of Lilith gracing Taurus, one becomes a sensual connoisseur, delighting in the orchestration of carnal pleasures. Every moment is a lingering indulgence, a deliberate savoring of the exquisite nuances of passion.

Venturing into the enigmatic domain of Lilith in Gemini, one is greeted by the spirit of curiosity. This individual thrives on experimentation, displaying an openness to novel experiences and a penchant for exploring the vast landscape of fantasies.

For those marked by Lilith in Cancer, the sexual landscape transforms into a nurturing sanctuary. Here, the emphasis lies in crafting emotional intimacy, weaving a tapestry of connection that extends beyond the physical realm.

Lilith's fiery presence in Leo manifests as a passionate force, seeking the spotlight within the intimate confines of the bedroom. Adoration and worship become the currency of desire for those bearing this celestial imprint.

As Lilith aligns with Virgo, the sexual narrative adopts a meticulous and detail-oriented script. The pursuit of perfection becomes paramount, and pride is derived from the meticulous artistry of pleasuring one's partner.

In the libidinous ballet of Lilith in Libra, the pursuit of harmony and equilibrium takes center stage. The fulfillment of both personal desires and those of the partner becomes the guiding principle.

Lilith's descent into Scorpio's abyss signals a journey into the shadowy realms of sensuality. Boundaries are pushed, and the exploration delves into the profound, both emotionally and physically.

Sagittarius, adorned with Lilith's influence, embarks on a journey of sexual exploration. Breaking free from traditional shackles, the adventurer seeks novelty, craving the thrill of uncharted territories.

In the disciplined terrain of Lilith in Capricorn, the sexual landscape is marked by focus and unwavering discipline. Novelty holds no allure; the pursuit lies in the mastery of the tried and tested.

Aquarius, with Lilith's eccentric touch, ventures into uncharted waters of sexual expression. Liberation from societal norms becomes the cornerstone, pushing boundaries and embarking on a voyage of self-discovery.

Pisces, blessed with Lilith's whimsy, delves into a realm of imagination and dreams. The pursuit transcends reality, embracing the magical and fantastical in the kaleidoscopic tapestry of erotic exploration.

Follow our Facebook page Mage Magic Touch for personal consultations https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565561190268

[bymcr]

Anthony Green | Spotlight at the Paramount | 03.09.24

[hometoursandotherstuff]

Welcome to Villa Del Leone, designed by Robert Marx in 1962, the son of Gummo Marx, (I've heard of the Marx Bros., but never Gummo- who the hell is Gummo?), of the famed Marx Brothers, in Palm Springs, CA. You can tell that the son of old Hollywood money lives here b/c of the cool stuff inside. The Hollywood Regency style home has 4bds, 3ba, & is listed for $4.995M. Since we can't afford it, let's look at it for inspirational purposes.

This is an odd way to design an entrance hall, but it seems meant to be a gallery, judging by the spotlights and photos on the walls.

Movie memorabilia.

A framed Paramount Studios logo has the place of honor on the fireplace. Love the pink sofas and the huge classic John Lennon portrait. Funky sign in front of the fireplace, too.

That's unusual, a huge poster hung sideways.

Cool English themed sitting room decorated with real motorcycles.

This serves as a dining room/library. Beautifully done, the purple carpet really makes it pop.

The kitchen's wild quartz counters would make the HGTV designers clutch their throats gasping in horror.

Elegantly dated bedroom has sliders to the pool.

The all-white en-suite has Grecian columns.

And, look at the vast closet. The clothing looks as bright and colorful as the decor.

Nice secondary bedroom. Very calming colors and I'm a toile fan.

Looks like a woman's office.

I wonder if that's an original Beatles drum set. Beautiful guitar collection display wall.

Outside, a the lovely pool. I love the zebra.

This is very nice. So manicured. I like a more natural looking garden.

Very cheerful home and it looks so inviting warmly lit up at night.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/466-Camino-Sur-Palm-Springs-CA-92262/18023638_zpid/

[50calmadeuce]

Ch. 15: After the Dance

Warning: Mention of miscarriage. Some chapters have sex.

Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction using characters from the Top Gun: Maverick world, trademarked by Paramount Pictures Corporation. I do not claim ownership of the characters and the world that I am borrowing.

The story and situation I am creating are a work of my imagination and I do not ascribe them to official story canon. This work is for entertainment only and is not a part of the storyline.

I am not profiting financially from the creation and publication of this story, but I do hope it gives you happy thoughts.

These stories are my own, so please do not take them and use them for yourself without my permission. If you see them somewhere else, please let me know. :)

Fortunately, your hotel room was conveniently located within the same complex as the school, sparing you the need for a drive or a long walk after the Gala.

That convenience turned out to be a blessing, allowing you both to easily retreat to the sanctuary of your hotel room after the emotional rollercoaster of the evening. The comfort of knowing that your personal space was just a short walk away provided a sense of relief, especially after the intense interactions and the spotlight of the Gala.

Once inside the room, the familiar, private setting felt like a haven. The tension that had built up over the evening began to dissipate as you stepped into the calm, quiet atmosphere, away from the buzz and social demands of the event.

"You want to talk about it?" Jake asked gently, closing the door behind him and turning to look at you, his expression one of concern mixed with support.

You considered his question for a moment, appreciating the safety and understanding in his eyes. It was a stark contrast to the complexities of the evening. "Let's just unwind for now," you suggested, craving the normalcy of your routine with him. "We can talk about everything tomorrow. I just want to enjoy the peace with you."

Jake nodded, understanding your need. "Sounds like a perfect plan."

Together, you decided to step out onto the balcony attached to your room, where the cool night air and the soft sounds of the city provided a soothing backdrop. The quiet of the night allowed you both to momentarily set aside the evening's events and focus on the comfort of each other's company.

As you leaned against the railing, Jake came up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist and resting his chin on your shoulder. The warmth of his embrace was reassuring, a physical reminder of the bond you shared.

"This is nice," you murmured, content in the moment.

"It is," he agreed, pressing a soft kiss to your temple. "No matter what happens, we've got this. We'll figure it out together."

"I just can't believe him!" you vented.

"And we're off," Jake remarked, taking a step back to give you space.

You turned to face him, the frustration evident in your expression. "I mean, how could he? The audacity to just announce that we're collaborating without even a formal discussion. And then, to insinuate—"

Jake held up his hands, a calming gesture. "I know, I know. Dorian's moves were out of line. But remember, we don't have to play his game."

You sighed, feeling the tension in your shoulders begin to ease with his words. "You're right. It's just… it felt so undermining, you know? Like my professional choices were being made for me."

Jake stepped closer again, his demeanor supportive. "I understand. But we're a team, you and I. Whatever decisions you make about your career, I'm here for it. We'll evaluate this together, see if there's any merit in considering it, and if not, we'll move on. No one dictates our choices but us."

His words were a balm to your frayed nerves. "Thank you," you said, genuinely grateful for his understanding and support. "I guess I just needed to hear that. It's been such an overwhelming day."

"Let's put it behind us for now," Jake suggested, offering a soft smile. "How about we focus on the fact that your work got recognized tonight? That grant is a big deal, Y/N. It's all you."

A small smile tugged at your lips, the pride in his voice igniting a sense of accomplishment within you. "Yeah, that part was pretty amazing, wasn't it?"

"Absolutely," he confirmed, pulling you into a gentle hug. "Let's celebrate that win, just the two of us. Forget about Dorian and the drama for tonight."

You nodded, resting your head against his chest, the steady beat of his heart grounding you. "Just us," you echoed, feeling the day's tension continue to melt away in his embrace. "But how do you feel about it?" you pressed for his thoughts.

Jake gently distanced himself and met your gaze. "You're considering it, aren't you?" he asked, searching your face for clues.

You hesitated for a moment, weighing your words carefully. "I'm considering all our options," you admitted. "Not necessarily with Dorian, but what this grant and recognition could mean for our future. For my research. It's a big opportunity, but I don't want to make any decisions without us being on the same page."

Jake nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I get it. And I want you to know, whatever you decide, I'm with you. My concern isn't the opportunity itself; it's about ensuring you're not being manipulated or pushed into something you're not fully comfortable with."

His response warmed your heart, reinforcing the solid foundation of trust and mutual respect your relationship was built on. "Thanks, Jake. That means a lot. I just… I want to make sure we're doing what's best for both of us, not just career-wise but for our future together."

He took your hands in his, a reassuring gesture. "Look, I've always admired your dedication and passion for your work. It's one of the many reasons I love you. If this grant, if this research, is what you want, then I'm all for it. We'll figure out the details together. Just promise me we'll keep the communication open, make these decisions together."

You nodded, the emotional weight of his words grounding you. "I promise. We're a team, in all things."

A smile spread across Jake's face. "That's my girl."

"And what about you, Jake Seresin? Stop trying to dodge the question," you challenged, seeking his genuine perspective.

Jake's expression turned thoughtful, a hint of vulnerability flickering in his eyes as he contemplated his response. The evening breeze played with his hair, adding a momentary pause to his deliberation. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady yet infused with the depth of his feelings.

"You know, I've been doing a lot of thinking about this, about us and our future," he began, his gaze locking with yours. "Seeing you up there tonight, getting recognized for your incredible work, it made me realize something important. I'm not just here to support you. I'm here because your dreams, your ambitions, they've become a part of me too."

He took a deep breath, choosing his words with care. "I've flown missions, been in situations where the odds were against us, but I always knew what I was fighting for. With you, it's different. It's not about fighting; it's about building something together, something lasting."

Jake's hands found yours again, a physical connection that bolstered his next words. "So when you ask me how I feel about the grant, about Dorian, about any opportunity that comes your way, my answer is this: I feel proud. Proud of you, proud to be with you. And yes, maybe a bit anxious about what the future holds, but that's not a new feeling for either of us, is it?"

He offered a small, reassuring smile, an acknowledgment of the shared challenges and triumphs that defined your journey together. "My career, my decisions, they've always been mine to make. But now, they're ours. And if this opportunity with the grant is something you want to explore, then let's explore it. Together. We'll weigh the pros and cons, make the tough calls, and navigate whatever comes our way."

Jake's sincerity was palpable, his commitment to you and your shared future unwavering. "So, to answer your question, I'm all in, Y/N. Whatever you decide, I'm with you. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about the grant or the research. It's about us, our partnership, and the life we're building together. And that's what matters most to me."

The conviction in his voice left little room for doubt. Jake Seresin, your partner in every sense of the word, was by your side, ready to face whatever the future held, as long as you faced it together.

"Wow. Where was this version of Jake four years ago?" you asked, genuinely surprised by his response.

"Hey, I'm doing my best here," he replied.

You leaned in and kissed him. "I know," you said softly, acknowledging his effort.

Just at that moment, his phone rang. Surprised, you glanced over at him. His phone hadn't rung once since he'd been home. He pulled it from his pocket and checked the screen.

"Darlin', I need to take this," he said, moving back into the hotel room to answer the call.

You watched him as he listened intently, nodded and said a few words. He then hung up the phone and hurried towards you. "Darlin', we need to go."

"Jake, what's wrong?" You asked, concern on your face.

"I just got called for a mission. I have 24 hours to get back, but the sooner the better."

You watched him for a moment. "I'll change, and then we can head out," you said, turning to walk back into the hotel room.

Tags: @buckysteveloki-me @bellyliveslife @tgmreader @callsign-barbell @86laura11 @dizzybee03 @kmc1989 @guacam011y @nerdgirljen @hookslove1592 @dempy @djs8891

[louisupdates]

14 New Music Documentaries to Stream This Thanksgiving Weekend

BY LORIE LIEBIG [22.11.2023]

It’s almost Thanksgiving, which means it’s the perfect time to take a break and enjoy time with loved ones. Over the past year, a trove of captivating music documentaries have been released to streaming platforms.

Some of these cinematic highlights include Wynonna Judd documenting one of her most challenging career chapters yet, a thoughtful examination of Elvis Presley‘s big comeback, and a revealing look into Ed Sheeran‘s life away from the spotlight.

From K-pop to hip-hop, there’s something for every genre-lover to enjoy in this crop of 2023 movie releases. We’ve assembled a list of 14 must-see music documentaries released this year for your holiday viewing enjoyment.

1. Louis Tomlinson: All of These Voices

Former One Direction member and pop hitmaker Louis Tomlinson takes fans into the studio in this Paramount+ exclusive film. Released in October, this fascinating documentary examines the English singer/songwriter’s journey to crafting his solo career.

American Songwriter has recommended Louis Tomlinson’s All Of Those Voices first in their list of music documentaries to watch this week.

[franthonyofficial]

anthony green x spotlight at the paramount x 3.9.24

[sshbpodcast]

Character Spotlight: Kathryn Janeway

By Ames

Finally, we’ve made it to the Delta Quadrant in A Star to Steer Her By’s character spotlight series, as we turn our focus to the crew from Voyager. And who better to start us off than our intrepid Intrepid-class leader, Captain Kathryn Janeway? She stalwartly leads the crew through uncharted space, wheels and deals with new alien species, kicks countless asses, and drinks copious amounts of coffee. What’s not to like?

Well, some things, as you’ll see below in our patented list of all Janeway’s Best and Worst Moments throughout the series (and beyond!). What’s in the Delta Quadrant doesn’t actually stay in the Delta Quadrant, you see. So count the number of times Janeway self-destructs the ship as you read on below and listen to our countdown timer over on this week’s podcast episode (T-minus 57:33). There’s coffee in this blogpost!

[Images © CBS/Paramount]

Best moments

Ralkana? He said you’d been shot. One of the early gems of Voyager is “Resistance,” and Kate Mulgrew is on high display throughout. When she comes to understand Caylem’s tragic history, Janeway embraces his cause with compassion and empathy. And when the poor, senile man is dying and continues to mistake her for his daughter, Janeway lets him believe his delusions because they’re all he has.

Hello. I’m Captain Kathryn Janeway. Welcome to the Bridge. We joke a lot on A Star to Steer Her By that Janeway’s go-to tactic is self-destructing the ship. And she gets to actually carry that through for the first (but not last) time in “Deadlock,” taking out a whole bunch of Vidiians with her. Lucky for us, a spare Voyager crew (including a bonus Harry and Naomi) are saved as a result, since any other time it’s a trick you can only pull once.

There’s nothing to fear… except Kathryn Janeway Throughout the sensory-overload nightmare fuel that is “The Thaw,” Fear the Clown torments the people within his holo-environment until he crosses paths with Captain Janeway and she proves to be the most cold-blooded of them all. She cleverly tricks him into releasing the hostages before ripping the rug out from under him with the reveal that she isn’t really there.

You’re part of a family now, and you have obligations Watching the crew become more of a family as the seasons progress is a highlight of Voyager, and the way Janeway comes to trust Neelix is lovely to watch. In “Macrocosm,” she makes him an ambassador, and an episode later in “Fair Trade,” her “you’re part of our family” speech when Neelix admits to feeling like he no longer has a purpose on the ship proves how she values him.

Time’s up Not only is “Year of Hell” one of the best two-parters in all of Star Trek, but it also has yet another instance of Janeway destroying the ship! She takes it upon herself to save her crew from the Krenim and their very pretty, very powerful timeship by plowing what’s left of the Voyager directly into that sucker. And she even gets a great sendoff line to go with it!

For what it’s worth, you made a tempting offer If we’ve learned anything from the first several seasons, it’s don’t cross Janeway or she will double-, triple-, or quadruple-cross you right back. Evidently, no one clued in Kashyk in “Counterpoint” because he tries to use her to find a wormhole and nab some telepaths, but she’s been prepared for that the whole time. Pity, the two of them were almost cute together.

I’m a little busy right now, helping a friend It takes her quite a while (most of the series even), but Janeway slowly makes steps to accepting the EMH as people. By “Latent Image,” she’s agreed to let him process his trauma, even though it would be much easier to deal with if she just erased it (again) like the program he is. She even sits with him while he has existential crisis after existential crisis.

Her Royal Highness, Arachnia, Queen of the Spiderpeople! As far as comedy episodes go, “Bride of Chaotica!” is one of our favorites. You can tell everyone’s having so much fun, especially Kate Mulgrew as she throws herself fully into the over-the-top role of Queen Arachnia. Janeway pretending to be a B-movie villainess is just candy to watch, and she saves the invaders from the fifth dimension. All in a day’s work!

I make a better you than you Jake thinks he’s very funny in making me include this one on the Janeway list, but here we go. So Dala in “Live Fast and Prosper” isn’t really Janeway, but she does make cunning deals and schemes with the best of them. And hell, the bonafide Janeway delivers as well by foiling her counterpart’s dastardly plans and throwing her in the brig where she belongs.

I’ll start my own Federation, with blackjack and hookers When the Voyager is stuck in the titular void from “The Void,” everyone’s begging to resort to piracy – it just looks so fun! – but Janeway puts her foot down. Despite being so far from home, she has tried her darndest to unhold Starfleet ideals, and starting her own miniature Federation is her way of showing that people are better when they work together. Void friends forever!

Must’ve been something you assimilated While I could pick on Admiral Janeway for breaking the Temporal Prime Directive in “Endgame,” I’m just too impressed by how she so thoroughly owns the Borg Queen. She knows diplomacy won’t get her anywhere with the Borg, so she lets herself get assimilated to pass on a neurolytic pathogen that takes out the whole collective and saves Voyager!

Set your compass to Starfleet Finally, we’ve been pretty forthright about our love for Star Trek: Prodigy, and Admiral Janeway really gets some great moments to chew the CGI scenery. In the season one finale, “Supernova,” she stands up for the Protostar crew, especially sticking her neck out for Dal in a way that is so pure and supportive that you root for the whole group. We're so excited to watch season two when it’s up on Netflix!

—

Worst moments

And if you win you get this shiny banjo made of gold What the whole series boils down to is the long journey to get home from the Delta Quadrant… but it’s kinda Janway’s fault they’re stuck there in the first place due to her needlessly selfless actions in “Caretaker.” And then there are countless opportunities to get home after that that she squanders to uphold Starfleet rules. Who’s gonna know, Janeway?

The Trolley Problem solution for maximum murder Probably the most infamous action Janeway takes is the murder of Tuvix in the eponymous “Tuvix.” Sure, it’s to get two crewmembers back, and I’ve heard that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one, but it is straight-up cruel the way she forces Tuvix to medbay against his will, kicking and screaming the whole way that he wants to live.

I couldn’t help it, said the scorpion. It’s my nature. Boy, does Janeway know how to put her crew in needless danger by making snap decisions and then arguing about them a lot (a lot) with Chakotay. Her decision to team up with the Borg in “Scorpion” against the newly introduced Species 8472 is frankly insane. There’s no reasoning with Borg, lady. I’m with Chakotay on this one: you can only trust a scorpion to sting you.

You must comply In “Scorpion,” Janeway promises to return Seven to the collective when they finish the whole Species 8472 thing, but instead Janeway straight up kidnaps the poor drone and makes the decision to deprogram her in “The Gift” like the cult victim Seven is. It’s all entirely against Seven’s wishes and a little uncomfortable to watch because our new Borg has no agency yet.

Get down with your bad self Okay, Jake is being a pill again and insists we include Janeway’s fictional counterpart from “Living Witness” using biogenic weapons against the Kyrians. And yeah, it’s not actually Janeway – it’s a purely fabricated story the Kyrians concocted for their biased history program – but ya know what: I love how diabolical and ruthless this Janeway is so much that I’ll include it.

I’ll be benefiting from other people’s suffering Even more uncomfortable than watching Janeway force individuality on Seven is watching Janeway straight up ignore the DNR from Torres in “Nothing Human.” We sorta get that Seven can’t make her own decisions because she’s essentially a cult victim, but Torres is of sound mind when she refuses to accept surgery from Crell Moset and Janeway won’t hear it.

Sit in the corner and think about what you did We did a whole other blogpost about when it’s a good idea to break or uphold the Prime Directive after watching “Thirty Days.” Janeway refuses to let Tom save the Moneans and throws him in the brig for a month for trying to help them. It’s inconsistent to say the least when captains decide to hide behind the almighty Prime Directive, and Janeway is the biggest offender.

You’re malfunctioning, and you need to be repaired We praised Janeway a moment ago about how she respects the Doctor’s agency in “Latent Image,” but all through the series leading up to that, she struggles to think of him as a sapient person. It’s revealed in this episode that she’d ordered his memories of Jetal wiped as a way to deal with his trauma – something she’d surely never do to one of her solid crew members.

The Handbook on Personal Relationships is three centimeters thick Season 5 is well represented in this list, and you’d think that after that long, Janeway would have a modicum of respect for her forever ensign, Harry Kim. But in “The Disease,” she sets a double standard out of nowhere that crew members can’t bang aliens without permission. Hello? Janeway, everyone has already broken that, not just Harry, your special little boy.

Every captain gets a little torture as a treat! We get to watch Janeway go full Captain Ahab on the Equinox crew in “Equinox.” She hunts down Ransom like he’s her white whale. She tortures Lessing for information. And then she fires Chakotay for doing his job of being the most moral character in the room. It all feels out of character, but that’s kinda the point because this is what the Delta Quadrant pushes people to.

Delete the wife Speaking of seeming out of character. In “Fair Haven,” Janeway designs herself a holo-boyfriend and then falls head-over-heels in love with it. We fully support the captain going and getting holo-laid, especially since it’s unethical to bang her subordinates, but she should know better that this guy is just a sex toy and not a real person – she did program him that way!

Two Janeways are better than one There’s a whole new meaning to arguing with yourself in “Endgame.” Turns out, Admiral Janeway originally doesn’t want to wreck up the Borg as we gave her credit for above, but withholds her plan from her younger self and then tries to pull rank while everyone else is rallying to save millions by taking out the Borg. Ladies, can’t we just work together… to kill Borg!

—

And we’ve finally made it home to the Alpha Quadrant! That’s all from Janeway today, but we’ve got her whole crew to peruse through for the upcoming weeks, so make sure you’re venturing through Voyager with us here, follow along with our Enterprise watchthrough on SoundCloud or wherever you podcast, sip some coffee with us over on Facebook and Twitter, and lift your mugs to a toast: to the journey!

[n-odditty]

[Sonic Heroes: Star System]

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Within the Star System lies mysteries many have failed to comprehend, let alone acknowledge. Powers far more ancient than the wonders which have been prominent in all our lives. So, when leaders from four notable teams, Sonic, Shadow, Blaze, and Silver, are brought into the spotlight with the rest of their friends against four new threats to the peace of their worlds, reality as they know it will be anything but the same. Will these 12 heroes from different walks of life be able to meet eye to eye, work as one, and end the growing threats that ebb away the fundamentals in which helps make their lives go round? Teams Primary, Monochrome, Paramount, and Absolution will make the pieces fall back into their rightful places.

Within the great expanse of space lies many secrets that the worlds which reside in the mysterious void have so little grasp on. Mysteries that hold great importance on how all came to be and how all came to prevail. Some of those mysteries reside within those very planets, holding onto hope that one day, once more, the wonders will connect the great expanse of knowledge and power to those who are best fit to wield it and lead all into a better tomorrow...following the course it was always meant to follow The era for a better new, life that pours out wonder, power, hope, and order will once again rise and shine greater tomorrows. How long may it take to get there? Those in the great beyond wait patiently for the answer. So too do those who have always lurked within the dark.

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Aw yeah! This is happening! I finally can post this story that I have been very passionate about for months now! [And also worrying like crazy over! ;u;] But now, it's time for it to see the world and the world to see it! I do hope you guys enjoy!

But while I am still being anxious over my work, I know you all will absolutely adore the beautiful pieces of art 2 awesome artists made for me through the Sonic the Hedgehog Big Bang 2024 event! I was blessed to have such cool artist work with me and bring some life to my writing! Give it up for @itslawless77 [Their Twitter: @7aw7ess] and @momotarotea! [Their twitter goes by the same handle!] You both are so awesome! Both your pieces are great and it was an honor getting both of them for my silly fic ^^! Send them lots of love guys! And thank you @sthbigbang for organizing this event and making all these opportunities possible! Had lots of fun! [Despite my anxieties ;U;]. I hope to see another one of these events in the future! Please send the team lots of love guys!

Now without further ado, I introduce my fic! Please enjoy!

Sonic Heroes: Star System - Chapter 1 - MissOdditty - Sonic the Hedgehog (Video Games) [Archive of Our Own]

[agentemo]

laughing crying because I wish I was Adaine and a mom of a friend was able to save me

I am so happy to see this bizarre, loving relationship between an adult and a child where their protection and happiness is paramount

and I'm really glad Brennan and Siobhan let us experience it, even if only briefly

this universe covers so many complicated relationships and seeing this one briefly given spotlight fills me with joy and peace

[softichill]

The Sounds of Nightmares unofficial transcript

Chapter 2 - A Penance at the Bathouse

(created in collaboration with @queen0fm0nsterz !!!!!!)

Chapter 1

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

[Click]

[Rewind sound]

OTTO: During our fourth session, developments in Noone’s case unearthed echoes of past failures. The girl recalled a familiar figure. 

[Click, Otto plays the tape]

Recording of NOONE: “The Candleman stood before me, on the rooftop. He wore… a long filthy jacket. His presence… it reminded me of… when the tide goes out.”

[Click, Otto pauses the tape]

OTTO: An uncanny sense of deja-vu, for Noone has seemingly encountered my Cici’s [distorted] Ferryman. I thought him lost forever. Yet, if true, he’s somehow found a way back to where he began. And who is he? Some deranged bedlamite? A mutual dreaming savant, invading the nightmares of innocents? It seems absurd. All I know for certain is that I must dig deeper. 

[tape rewinding]

[Intro plays]

[Various clicking]

OTTO: This is the Counselor, tape number 57, session number 4, patient number… Hm, patient Noone. [Tapping and shifting]

OTTO: I was presumptuous. Judgemental. Now I feel it’s paramount to prioritize Noone’s treatment over several other cases, due to demonstration of abnormal neurological faculties. [Shifting sounds] To dissent her further, today I’ll venture an unconventional method. [something electric is turned on]

[Beeping. Otto sighs]

OTTO: Admittedly dated, but this device should help attain further clarity. 

[Beeping alts. Audio cuts]

[Steps, pages shuffling. Someone knocks on the door]

OTTO: (cheery) Please, come in! 

[Door creaks open and closes]

OTTO: How are we doing today, Noone?

NOONE: Otto, what happens to a stone that has overcome its greatest fear? 

OTTO: You’re… telling a joke?

NOONE: Yes, but I never got the punchline.

OTTO: I’ll have to think about that –

NOONE: Hey, look! A moth!

[Otto shifts to look]

NOONE: We went on vacation once, under my doctor’s advice. Swarms of moths gathered around that balcony each night. They fascinated me, their little ways! How they just… existed. I collected them in mum’s plastic jars. 

OTTO: Well, this might be a good time to tell me about your mother. 

NOONE: …I’d rather not. Mum didn’t share my enthusiasms for crawlies. But moths were my favorite, drawn to light under some kind of spell.

OTTO: Perhaps you see a bit of yourself in the moth. Vulnerable, caught in the spotlight. The fame you received after the cure –

NOONE: I don’t feel cured. At all.

OTTO: …You feel you’re still in the dark?

NOONE: Yes. But I like to try to fly towards the light.

OTTO: [Hum] Then let me be that guiding light. And eventually, together, we’ll leave your darkness behind. 

NOONE: How you said that… reminds me of the place I visited.

OTTO: On your vacation?

NOONE: No. Last night, in my dream.

OTTO: Let’s make sure you’re comfortable before jumping in.

NOONE: Oh, I feel at ease. Calm even. Can I tell you about it?

OTTO: If you like, then I suppose you could –

NOONE, narrating: I awoke to wet air on a rooftop. 

NOONE: Peeking over the ledge, I saw an ocean, stretching all the way to the horizon. On the nearest shore, giant fish-like contraptions crawled out from the waves, and from their mouths, plump men and women emerged. Faces hidden behind wooden masks, bodies tucked away beneath mucky brown robes. Some used sticks to labour up the long winding boardwalk leading from the beach to the lantern-lit market below. 

[Bells and steps]

NOONE: Their destination was behind me. A distant, crooked bathhouse. A voice whispered, “Hey!”, and I turned to see a grubby, breathless boy stepping off a ladder. He dressed in tatty shorts and… shirt covered in pin badgers. He said, 

JESTER, overlapping with NOONE: “Do you know a way out of here?”

NOONE: I told him I was equally lost, but he insisted on traveling together. He went on,

JESTER, (ov. with NOONE): “Other kids call me Jester, because I never run out of jokes. I can tell you some along the way!” 

NOONE: I didn’t reply, so he blurted,

JESTER (ov. with NOONE): “Uhm, a man tells his friend to stop looking for the perfect match…” 

NOONE: But, he stopped. I could tell he realized that parts of him… were missing. As if… just being here… [slimy, crawling sound] was changing him. I realized something too: my headache was gone. Jester yelled out,

JESTER (ov. with NOONE): “Oh! He tells him to… use a lighter!”

[Otto interrupts the narration]

OTTO: Then this boy was the impetus for your joke! [Shifting] You met a child in your nightmare prior, but this one sounds far more… normal. 

NOONE: He looked like the kids from school, only… kinder. The ones at school teased me. Well, until I fell ill. After the water sickness, the same children who made me dread walking through these rotten gates began sucking up. But I’ve always been the same me. 

NOONE: Funny. I feel less me now than before.

OTTO: Children can be cruel. I had my share of tormentors in adolescence. 

NOONE: Really?

OTTO: It’s regrettably common. [Shifting] Tell me what happened next.

NOONE, narrating: Jester pulled my arm. “Look”, he said, pointing me to long planks of wood laid down like bridges between the rooftops. …Other children had traveled this path before.

OTTO: Other children? [Otto writing]

NOONE: The walkways had been placed there. They were too narrow for those swollen adults below. It must have been other children, and Jester – he was real too. [Writing] I felt his presence just as I feel yours here in this room. [Pause] Could that… be the dream sharing you spoke of?

OTTO: Let’s not leap to assumptions. Go on. The planks?

[Pause. Sounds of slow steps on wood]

NOONE, narrating:  We carefully walked each one, building to building. [Steps on terrain and wood, as well as faint bells] Below, the masked figures continued their walk too. Every now and then, a traveler would leave their place in line to take goods from the many merchants who’d offered all manner of soaps and perfumes. Their flowery smells mixed with… the fishy stench, pouring from the chimneys of the bathhouse…

[walking and bells continue]

NOONE: When we reached our final building, our only option was to head down the long ladder, sneaking around the side into an alleyway below. Jester was the nervous sort, so, I did my best to stir his courage and asked, [overlapping] “Have you another joke?”, and he replied,

JESTER (ov. with NOONE): “Oh, right! What happens to a stone that has overcome its greatest fear?”

NOONE: And there it was again. That… lost look. Like granny used to get. I asked him, [overlapping] “You don’t remember?” And Jester simply said,

JESTER (ov. with NOONE): “I’ll know it by the time I reach the bottom.”

NOONE: But, before I could follow… something called out from across the rooftop. A muddled voice, and then… I saw him. That man with- the impossible face. The same one from the room of glass jars, the – I can never focus on him!

[Narration stops]

OTTO: Noone, I need you to recall fine details.

NOONE: I told you!

OTTO: Especially when speaking of persons you’ve seen multiple times. Recurrence implies significance. 

NOONE: He’s a… broken mirror. Or a photograph all torn up. Impossible to piece back together.

OTTO: I have something. [Otto gets up from his chair, steps] A magic glue for your mind. 

[Steps, shifting, Otto sets the device up. Beeping and buzzing.]

NOONE: I don’t want to wear that.

OTTO: (immediately) You must. If you cannot remember specifics then I cannot help you. I must know about this mystery figure, I… simply must. 

[Shifting]

NOONE: Um… Alright then. 

[Noone puts on the device. Everything except Noone’s voice becomes slightly muffled]

NOONE: [pause] A pendant?

OTTO: This belonged to someone very important. Gazing into its spiral always gave me relief. I found it can be used to offer my patients that same relief through hypnotherapy… which will help you remember this, um…

NOONE: The Candleman. It’s my name for him.

[Shifting]

OTTO: I’d like you to gaze into the spiral. Watch it sway, back and forth. Back, and forth. Fall into the endless turning of the pattern within. As you drift away, drift back into dreaming. Drift into a world coming clearer. 

NOONE: Y-Yes… I see.

OTTO: Then, tell me of… the Candleman. 

NOONE, narrating: …The candleman stood before me. On the rooftop. [Faint, low breathing] He wore… a long filthy jacket. His presence…. it reminded me of… when the tide goes out. And his face… it moved beneath his hat. Like soup. Bits and pieces rising and sinking. Wait… I can see a little better now. 

NOONE: H-His eyes… are long slits. Skin-rough, sagging… like melting wax. He didn’t speak, but somehow I knew. The Candleman wanted me to open myself. To this place. Yes, he has for a while now. Every night. 

OTTO: (muffled) Every night?

NOONE: Oh. I can see it all. A web. He’s… been with me this whole time. Watching. Observing. Waiting…

OTTO: What does he want?

NOONE: I don’t know… [muffled yelling] Someone shouting. I turn to look,

OTTO: I’d like to keep talking about-

NOONE: No! When I turn back, the Candleman was gone. I-I rush to the ladder [Dream!Noone running, clunk]. At the bottom stood a- wart-covered brute with filthy arms. He must have broken away from the boardwalk, and something hung in his hand, flapping l-like a fish. He headed to the Bathhouse and… something told me to follow. 

[clanking]

NOONE: As I climb down the ladder, I passed by an open shop window, and poked my head inside. The merchant… spoke in- a raspy voice, [overlapping] “What’s your pleasure?” A desperate moan came from the customer, and he said [overlapping whisper] “Suds. To cleanse this profound skin.” And then… the merchant lifted- a bottle of pink liquid, and said “This will ease your pain.”

[Dream!Noone continues climbing down, lands]

NOONE: A-at the bottom of the ladder, Jester wasn’t there, so… I set off, making my way through- the overgrowth, that had eaten up the land around the Bathhouse.

[plants rustling] 

NOONE: Until, I reached some vines, crawling up a fogged window. 

[Window being opened, Dream!Noone entering and landing on the floor]

NOONE: I was in some kind of- store closet. [water dripping] The shelves were lined with… cleaning chemicals, and… brushes and buckets. The stink of bleach stung my eyes, so I rush through the door. 

[heavy door opening, echoey bath splashing]

NOONE: A room with shallow pools. And the same polluted taste in the air, as the stream by our apartment. 

OTTO: [writing, muffled] Water parasite preoccupation-

NOONE, Not narrating: (distressed) Something lives on. Even after the cure! Pinching my skin, pulling my organs, my head’s like- cracked pavement and my scalp is- itchy!- So itchy- urgh!!!

OTTO: Enough! Enough scratching. 

[Beeping, clicking as Otto unstraps the device. Beeping powers down, audio is clearer]

OTTO: (comforting) Noone, listen. There’s nothing on you. Nothing inside, either. It’s only you and me, and nothing else. 

[Two pops. Earplugs are removed, Noone gasps, audio is completely clear]

OTTO: It’s alright. You’re back. Safe and sound, as promised. 

NOONE: …Did…did it work? Were details glued back together?

OTTO: Some. Though many pieces are still missing… and this continual mention of headaches concerns me. I’ll look into possible causes and see what can be done. For now; the Bathhouse, you were inside, right?

NOONE, narrating: Yes. And, there was steam hung in the air, making it hard to see anything but… shapes. The shapes of… Bathers, unrobed and- unmasked. Some levered away, some crouched in the water, others huffed the sauna steam. The biggest… sat scrubbing himself with… [child struggling] with something that appeared alive. 

[distant splash, more struggling noises, scrubbing]

NOONE: Creeping through the steam, I hid behind a bucket [splash, child whines, growly mumbling] The big one… was before me, [Child yelling, growly voice] barely resembling a human. His- body was… raw and brown, and he rapidly repeated “Divide the grime from the divine” over and over. I suddenly realized wha- [splash, Jester struggling] who… the creature was scrubbing with.

NOONE: [Jester yells, scrubbing] It was poor Jester, sobbing and thrashing for his life. S-Stumbling in horror, I… I slipped on the slimey [squeak] tile and-

[all background noise stops]

NOONE: The whole room went silent, as they turned their heads… and began a haunting chant.

NOONE: (overlapping whisper) “Cleanse her, cleanse her!” Voices piled as their shapes stood and staggered into view, th-their bodies scrubbed into- raw spectacles, there was nothing I could do for Jester! So, I- I picked myself up, and ran for the door, but it was shut tight! [door clicking, whispers get louder] The Bathers drew near, arms reaching out, [more struggling] my hands grazed a crevice on the wall, which- which I slip- through just in time. 

[Whispers stop, door clattering, Dream!Noone breathing hard]

NOONE: There I stood in the storeroom, once more. The window was open [knocks on the door]- my one chance to escape. I climbed the shelves, [jars clinking] avoiding the jars and containers that filled the room with chemical stink. 

[knock, door breaks down]

NOONE: Glancing back, I saw the monster, standing in the broken door frame- Jester’s limp body under his arm. 

[clanking]

NOONE: His… wart-covered hand reached up, [Growl, Dream!Noone yelps] grabbing my leg, violently pulling me away, [shelf creaks] and all I could do was reach in hope, [creak] my hands grasped a jar full of white liquid, [creak, yelp] and as he ripped me down-

[Entire shelf breaks]

NOONE: The jar followed. 

[Glass breaks, Bather roars & groans. Everything goes quiet]

NOONE: The liquid covered him, head to toe, unleashing a cloud of gas that burned the very air, washing over me, sending me into darkness. …A strange satisfaction came from melting down that vile man. I wasn’t like that moth, searching for the light. I was quite… happy, surrounded by the dark. 

NOONE, finishing: Soon enough… I was back here. In the Copy. 

OTTO: …Hmm… A more intense, personally-rooted conflict this time, a desire to be clean- perhaps to wash away memories of an invasive experience that your anxiety is fixated on. Yet, what bemuses me is your insistence on actuality; claiming material presence of others, and environment. 

NOONE: But, didn’t you say I could be sharing dreams?

OTTO: Yes, but that’s a different phenomenon. We must prescribe further research. I will need to begin nightly tests and observations to aid in reaching differential diagnosis. 

NOONE: Experiments! Do we have to, Otto?

OTTO: They’ll help you feel better! And that’s what you want, isn’t it?

NOONE: …Well… yes. Of all things, it’s the sound of mum saying “Ni-night” I miss most. 

[shifting as both get up]

OTTO: The stone becomes a little boulder!

NOONE: Pardon?

OTTO: The answer! To Jester’s joke! It’s an old one. 

NOONE: (whispering) The stone becomes a little boul… Oh, [giggle]

OTTO: Now, before you pop off to bed, [ceramic scrape] pick out another colorful delight for being such a good girl. 

[ceramic click, wrapper crinkling]

OTTO: Sweets, for my sweet. 

[Click]

[Outro plays] 

[djsherriff-responses]

Kinda funny that they’re making a Watch Dogs movie now despite that series haven’t really been much spotlight for several years now. They just finished filming it so I guess it’s progressing fine. I think there’s supposed to be a show too as well.

Not that I can blame them I mean they tried a Prince of Persia movie that flopped, that Assassin’s Creed movie got forgotten so quickly.

A rabbids movie? I feel like they’re more than a decade too late on that front not to mention Minions have mostly stolen that niche very successfully. Unless they go the Mario + Rabbids route on that movie but I doubt we’ll see it soon.

I vaguely remember watching Prince of Persia but based on the fact I barely remember it , it was a forgetful movie, haven't seen the assassins creed film so I can't comment on the quality of either film

What I can comment on is the various factors that makes those movies different to Watchdog , or rather the environment they've released in

Prince of Persia came out in 2010. In that same year we got movies such as Scott Pilgrim , Percy Jackson , Clash of the Titans and Tron Legacy. There was also meant to be an ALTA movie but it never got made 😔 Prince of Persia had a lot of competition when it came out, but it stood very little chance against those more memorable flicks

Assassins Creed came out in 2016 along side Batman Vs Superman and the Killing joke , no chance of out competing those

(obviously all these movies did not come out at the same time of year , I'm over simplifying a it)

Heres an important similarity Prince of Persia and Assassins Creed have besides being made by the same company: They're video game IPs

For as long as video games has existed , there was this issue that movie adaptions of popular video games were never gonna be good (Never seen it but the discussion around the 80s Mario movie is a prime example). Whether these films were actually bad or fans just never being satisfied I can't say, I don't have the energy to research and this is already getting long

However that drastically changed when the Sonic Movie came out in 2020

Now obviously we know about ugly Sonic and how close the film could've gone down the cursed game movie path. But it didn't , Paramount listened to the fans and redesigned Sonic (even though that most definitely made people do overwork last minute) which lead to the film being such a success it's getting it's third installment released this year and a TV series spin off

Than we got the Mario Movie , which was also a success and so on and so forth

Now something worth keeping in mind is that , in the 2010s when Prince of Perisa was released , nostalgia bait wasn't as prominent as it is now

Which is why I think the Watch Dogs film , as well as the Rabbids movie, is Ubisoft trying to cash in on the video game nostalgia train. Maybe even using the film's success as a way to test if people will buy a new game

[elfdragon12]

"Don't watch any new Transformers One trailers! Paramount is spoiling the movie!"

I, an adult who's watched all the mainstream shows and read a good chunk of the comics, am supposed to be surprised by anything that happens in this movie?

Look, it was pretty obvious from the first trailer that this is a G1 origin story retelling flavored with IDW1 and Aligned lore. Episodes "Forever Is a Long Time Coming" and "Five Faces of Darkness part 4" in particular. The main characters are all the usual suspects. I guess there are some surprising cameos, but, considering the fact that Bumblebee is a main character when it should be Dion or Ironhide or Ratchet... My hopes aren't high that most of these background cameos will have more than a few lines just to let the long-time fans gush about finally getting to see a character they like on the big screen (me, staring wistfully at Blaster whose only onscreen appearance since the 80s was the Chip and Dale movie in a group shot) while the big obviously marketable characters get 90% of the spotlight. Literally, the only "surprise" casting is that Elita-1 gets to be the main female character in a movie instead of Arcee... And that's not a surprise because her character is supposed to be there.

I hear the movie is good. Great! But, if the trailers really are "spoiling" the movie, it's not like it's some big groundbreaking story if you've been around for a while... And that's okay! It's obvious what direction they're taking the story and... That's what we're here for--a retelling of a story we already know and like. It would be weirder if they pulled out some out of nowhere shock twist like... Soundwave was a mole for the Senate the whole time! Or something.

[acceptccnow]

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