#Anton Tobias imagine

[sp00ky-arts]

fandon: idle hands Imagine being Molly's best friend and having a crush on Anton

"You totally have a crush on him, ______." Molly teased giving you a sly grin.

"I-I do not" You sputtered. Just then Anton and his friends were rounding the corner and walking in your direction.

" Hey, Molly, s'up ____" Anton greeted and smiled in your direction.

"H-hi, Anton." You meekly replied. After he was out of your line of sight you let out the huge breath you let in.

"See, told you." She smirked.

"Shut up." you replied, a small smile gracing your lips.

[kiillmeromantically]

I know I owe things but here is a starter call for the muses listed below. Please let me know which you would like one from in the comments!

GRACE PARISH. thirty. she/her. bisexual. flight attendant. recently widowed after only having been married a year. she has thrown herself completely into work without taking any sort of time off. she knows she needs to move on but she isn’t sure where to start. VICTORIA PEDRETTI FC.

ANTON GALLO. thirty three. he/him. heterosexual. assassin. grew up in the gutter so to speak. had to fight for everything before working his way up in the world by drawing blood and ending lives. MICHELE MORRONE FC.

VICTOIRE DUMAS. twenty four. bicurious. model. seemingly normal girl who managed to get noticed thanks to a trip to the states. since then it was a whirlwind and she still isn’t even sure it’s what she truly wants. LILY ROSE DEPP FC.

HARLOW NEWTON. forty. heterosexual. lawyer. incredibly dedicated to his career so much that he let his life pass him by. yet he never imagined that by the time he hit forty that he was not going to be married or have children. now that he has become partner at his firm, he is determined to make up for lost time. HENRY CAVILL FC. 

HONEY BYRNE. thirty. bisexual (female leaning). trust fund baby. her family came from old money but she never quite fit their mold. she grew up in london but eventually relocated to the states. all the while trying to figure out what she wanted to do with her life instead of relying on the trust fund. SUKI WATERHOUSE FC.

TOBIAS DALTON. twenty four. he/him. heterosexual. college student. the golden boy who can do no wrong in the eyes of his family. little did they know he has plenty of his secrets involving drugs, sex and just overall debauchery. FELIX MALLARD FC.

[classic80sand90smovieloves2]

Meeting and Dating Anton Tobias

(Not my gif)(Requested by anonymous)

(Seth Green in this movie? A+)

- First things first: Anton’s had a crush on you since the first grade, which is also where the two of you technically met for the first time.

- You being placed in the same class would become a frequent, on and off again thing in both your lives. Every year or so, you’d end up having a class with Anton Tobias and every year, he’d fall for you harder and harder.

- Regardless of how long you’ve been aware of each other’s existence, Anton is still completely incapable of actually speaking to you. There’s been a few instances of him; accidentally or purposefully, coming into contact with you and just widening his eyes, doing a 180 and booking it away from you after you say hello.

- So yeah, for a while, he’s just adorably obsessed with you in a way that only a boy in love can be.

- There was definitely a period in your life where you considered trying to talk to him yourself, wondering if you could ease his nerves a little and show him that he could actually interact with you.

- But then he got really into the whole stoner thing and you found yourself a bit too intimidated to approach him. Plus, he was never at school anymore for you to talk to him anyways.

- It’s only when the two of you reach your junior year of highschool that anything of actual value happens between you.

- It was during one of the days that Anton actually showed up to school. You’d gotten home from school when you went to pull your things out of your schoolbag. It was then that you finally noticed that you had two copies of your English classes book.

- You vaguely remembered assuming you’d dropped yours when you saw a copy near your bag on the floor, a copy you’d quickly stuffed into your bag “again” before rushing to your next class. You cracked open the covers of both and found that one read ‘Anton Tobias’ in a messy scrawl.

- Considering the fact that you didn’t know where Anton lived; or had even ever spoken to him, you couldn’t exactly return the book right away, so, you were forced to wait until school the next day and hope that he showed up.

- The next day, you spotted him in front of the school and quickly made your way over. He looked at you like a deer in headlights as you explained the situation, not saying anything but taking the book from your hands as his friends watched in secondhand embarrassment and amusement.

- Pnub kicked him in the shin and he finally spoke, assuring you that it was alright and forcing a smile onto his face. You offered to let him copy your homework since you borderline stole his book and he asked if you were sure before thanking you as you handed it to him.

- You said goodbye and walked off as as he stared at you in awe. He handled that paper like a museum artifact the entire day.

- You were already seated in your chair when he walked in and surprised you by sitting right next to you. He handed your paper over and thanked you again as you gave him a smile.

- When class is finally over, he stays behind and gathers up the courage to actually talk to you, complimenting your homework before the conversation shifts into more interesting territory. His boys are very proud to see him walking out of the school with you instead of being a puss.

- The two of you made it to the bus area before you were forced to say goodbye, which you did so begrudgingly before you got on. He couldn’t complain though, he’d finally talked to the girl of his dreams and he was floating on cloud nine.

- The two of you start talking to each other everyday and he couldn’t be happier, he feels stupid for being so afraid to start a conversation with you. It takes about a month of short conversations for him to actually invite you to hang out. 

- You’re once again walking out of school with him and you’re just finishing up saying goodbye when he turns back around and asks if you want to come over to his place, which you obviously agree to. 

- So technically, your first date consists of you going over to his house and pretty much just hanging out and enjoying each others company. You watch television, talk some more, eat some food, go for a walks, things like that. 

- It’s after a few months of the two of you hanging out that you have your first kiss. You were a bit bored and flopped on his bed as he fiddled with something, asking if he actually wanted to do something. 

- He asked what you wanted to do as you hovered above him and you watched as his gaze kept drifting down to your lips. You’d suspected before that Anton had a crush on you; primarily because Pnub and Mickey had outright told you he did, but it was only now that you saw he truth in their words. 

- Before you lost your nerve, you leaned down and pressed your lips to his. He froze for a minute as you pulled away, looking at you in surprise as a million thoughts raced through your mind; thoughts that were banished as he lurched up and kissed you again. 

- Rest assured, that kiss sealed your fate. You’re never getting rid of him after that. 

- Lots of Pda. Anton really doesn’t care about what anybody thinks so if he wants to touch or kiss you; which believe me he does, he’ll just do it without thinking.

- His arm around your shoulders, or draped around the couch behind you.

- Drowsy hugs from behind. He’s usually half asleep when he does this and will usually take in a deep, tired breath and sleepily tell you you smell good.

- He presses kisses all over your face whenever he can; particularly when he’s board. He’ll give you one on your temple, then one on your cheekbone, under your cheekbone, the apple of your cheek, your jaw, the corner of your mouth-

- Soft, sometimes slow kisses.

- Makeout sessions. What’s better than laying in his bed and kissing you? To him? Pretty much nothing.

- The two of you cuddle wherever you fall. Sometimes you’re on top of him, other times he’s spooning you with his leg thrown over your body; just all types of cuddling.

- He tends to just call you by your given name but if he feels the need, he’ll call you babe or honey as well.

- He thinks everything you do is so fucking cool. He’s constantly amazed by and complimenting you.

- He’s almost embarrassingly fond of and proud of you. He brags about you to people all the time; it’s really quite adorable.

- He can’t remember basic math 90% of the time but you bet you’re ass he remembers the outfit you wore when you first talked to him or everything about that necklace you always wear or the book you always carry around. He’s well versed in the subject of y/n.

- Fast food dates.

- Watching television together.

- Chilling up in his room.

- Listening to music together. Sometimes you just lay on his bed with your heads connected and your hands intertwined and vibe.

- Walking his dog with him. You know ...Anton really isn’t fond of the way Randy looks at you as you’re walking by.

- Going to the skatepark with him and his friends.

- He’s always phoning you and asking you to come over because he wants to see you; usually groaning when you’re busy or trying to convince you to ditch what you’re doing.

- If you’re into weed then expect to be doing a lot of smoking with him.

- Trying to get him to be a little more ambitious. You’re one of the only things that get him out of bed and out into the world.

- Informing him on the latest happenings because god knows he isnt paying attention to any of whats going on around him.

- Subtle butt touches.

- Wearing his pants because he sure as shit doesn’t. If he’s rocking his boxers, you’re rocking the sweats he’s neglected.

- Occasionally cutting class or skipping school with him. You do want to graduate high school so you don’t do it all the time like he does:

- Doing him a few favors; or more so his mother. Picking up milk on your way over after school, bringing some food, returning movie rentals. Things that take like a five minutes if you’re already gonna be passing said places.

- Waking him up in the morning, or more accurately: the afternoon.

- He loves when you fuss over him. Honestly, the more motherly and “traditional” you act with him the better. Get out all those urges. He’ll never mind.

- Your laugh? Music to his ears. His humor is his main appeal; besides the fact that he’s nearly six foot and pretty attractive.

- Talking all serious about stupid shit until you both breakout into laughter.

- Wondering why he’s suddenly acting so strange....

- Going through the whole idle hand ordeal and stopping him by being crushed by a whole ass car.

- Visiting him in the hospital.

- Helping him after he loses his hand.

- You are his last brain cell. You’re like the main reason this boy is still alive.

- Occasionally shutting him up since he doesnt think before he speaks like 90% of the time. Anton ...maybe don’t make fun of police officers ...to their face ...when they already don’t like you.

- Your parents probably don’t like him ...for obvious reasons, so you’ll most likely have to sneak out or lie to them so that you can see him.

- Helping to keep him calm in stressful situations.

- He thinks he’s really bad at comforting you but he’s actually like accidentally really good at it. He has no idea what he’s doing but it’s working!

- Antons pretty oblivious most of the time so he doesn’t tend to get jealous very often. That being said, since he’s been in love with you for so long, he isn’t too keen on losing you so whenever he senses a serious threat to your relationship, he’ll do whatever he can to stop it.

- He’s sort of a coward so he really isn’t going to be the one you can count on when you’re scared. He’ll probably talk up a big game but the minute a tree limb snaps beneath someone’s foot, he’s clinging to you like a child.

- The two of you don’t fight extremely often; you sort of just know how he is so you’re unfazed by most of what he does. But when you do fight, he has trouble staying calm and saying the right thing. He’ll probably call you a bitch without thinking and you’ll have to stop yourself from strangling him.

- Whenever you’re mad at him, he’ll keep periodically calling you to try and get you to talk to him. He never waits long after you leave either; usually it’s at most an hour before he’s ringing your line. He can always seem to wiggle his way back into your good graces no matter what he does and it’s infuriating.

- He tells you he loves you quite a bit. He’s had a while to come to terms with his feelings so he isn’t afraid to tell you the truth.

- He’s not a fan of talking about the future but let’s just say that you’ll probably be the more established and accomplished person in your relationship.

[tawneybel]

Imagine Anton temporally placating his possessed hand by letting it finger you.

[drea-46]

04.03.22

Part 3

Tobias: I’m the only one dealing with criminals. I can’t imagine that somebody would attack Vivien or Easy because they have stolen the last banana from the supermarket or something like that

Vivien: What about Anton Hoffmann? After all, his son is in jail because of me

Easy: Vivien, no! His son is in jail because he is a raper

Tobias: You’re talking about Hoffmann, right? He wants to get revenge on Eva

Easy: What if it’s Ringo after all? Because of him the Magician is in custody

Vivien: And what if it is just a stranger that simply hates everything and everbody?

Jakob: Okay, stop. Time out! Guys, there might be reasoning behind your worries but one is not automatically capable of such an act just because they are angry. You need an increased potential of violance. Okay, I will talk with a former colleague of mine. Maybe they have someone in mind, okay?

Until then, be careful and only leave the flat if necessary, alright?

Tobias: Where is he going?

[eagles-translated]

Q&A answers from creator and producer Stefan H. Lindén!

Here are the answered questions that all you guys sent in to Stefan. I’d like to thank all of you who sent in questions, and I’d also like to thank Stefan for being the one who offered to do a Q&A and taking the time to answer all the fans’ questions. This post got really long (almost 5000 words including your questions haha) so I put a keep reading line on this. Anyway, Stefan’s answers were super interesting to read, so enjoy! 🥅🏒

Thanks for your question. My idea has always been that Ludde was blown away by Felicia and that he really likes her but that they both initially interacted and met to go swimming because Felicia knew it would piss her dad off and Ludde knew that it might throw Elias off, since they were competing for the same position in the team. However after that, they really fell for each other. So he is very interested in her and so is she – however as of now in Season 2, Felicia’s behavior has thrown Ludde off since Felicia is still very angry with him due to Halloween and the reveal at Christmas.

Without telling to much on what’s ahead, the build up of Elias and Amies potential relationship from season 1 does matter and will play a role down the line of the series. But with that said Eagles has always, in my vision for the series been a 4-5 season concept. I did answer the question regarding Amie and Elias below in a longer format – it contains a little more info on the matter.

Will try to avoid potential spoilers but I can confirm that from the beginning of development of the series and the first version of the storyline a triangle drama was at some point intended for season 1 but later removed  – however when creating the characters, Ludvigs skill in music and arts was always there from the beginning so by knowing that, we always knew that interactions would appear between them. When looking back at Season 1, in the first scene by the lockers when Amie tells Felicia who Ludvig is, she does know exactly who he is and she is well aware of that his friend Tobias is a music guy that Amie wants to get to know. Also when looking at it, when I was the same age as Ludvig and Amie I, and I am sure a lot of people can relate to it, fact is that we never really knew if it was love or friendship in the beginning.

Actually my favorite NHL-team is the Boston Bruins and when writing the first version of the pilot episode for the show Boston was my choice of team. Back when I graduated high school my girlfriend, now my wife was an Au-pair outside of Boston so I visited the city for a couple of months. Later when I studied in Los Angeles I had a friend playing hockey in New Hampshire, where me and my wife spend one Christmas and paid regular visits to Boston. So it’s a town that I share a special connection with and that have a hockey team that I really love.

Thanks for your question, hope you watch season 2 soon. In my opinion her storyline is clearer this season than it was in the previous season and since Yandeh Sallah, who plays Amie is such an excellent actress I always wish for more scenes with her but I also do wish for that with all of our main characters – it’s time to fit them all in sometimes because our format is so short.

Bringing Jack in was actually originally not my idea, it came from my writer colleagues after that they revised my storyline notes for Season 2, while I was still down in Oskarshamn shooting Season 1. 

We had always intended for a character to come in and raise the stakes but I never imagined it to be Jack. When we started to develop the character, we all started liking him so he was kept in the story. Like with any new character we never really know who they are and what point of them for coming in is, so to not spoil anything I will let your question be unanswered, sorry. 

But what I can say is that Jack does have a backstory and a character arch that will answer a lot of questions about him and who is, it may not all be explained in Season 2, but hopefully if we get commissioned for a Season 3, you will get to know more about him.

I would say many of the storyline bits are loosely inspired on things/events that were in my surroundings when growing up, mainly I would say that the characters all have bits and pieces from friends or people I knew, but would definitely not say that the main storyline or the characters’ lives are based on my life or me growing up. When we started to work with the series in a writer’s room after having it commissioned and when summarizing the research, the original storyline was revised, updated and changed a lot in terms of drama and conflict. When me, Anton, Michaela, Fanny and season 1 director Amanda all came together we shared a lot of similar stories, experiences and of course some unique stories that were later all kind of built in to our characters and the show’s storyline. Same thing happened when our season 2 director Carl-Petter entered the Writers Room. To summarize I’d say that some things that could definitely be recognized from my teenage years, only that they are a wee bit heightened in order for it to be a good dramaturgy. But it is fun to think that there actually is a combination of people out there, that I knew or know that laid the basic foundation for Ludvig, Felicia, Amie, Elias, Klara, Andreas, Tobbe and the parents. 

I will not spoil anything but let me put it like this and like I said above. Eagles will always have room for more than just one love saga and the things established in season 1 is not something that we will ever just  throw away. However, in the storyline as it evolves some things may take longer than other and some things may happen faster than others. When working with such a short format as 8 or 10x20 minute episodes our job as a creative team has always been having to cut away pieces and push them forward in our story archs – with that said Eagles have according to my vision for the series always been a 4 to 5 season concept. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe it took about 21 films before Cap got Agent Carter – so even if you see things that you unlike that happens now, don’t forget that I and our team always follow our fans’ thoughts and that everything will hopefully make sense in the end. Also saying if everything just happened straight away – it wouldn’t be as exciting to watch. But to give one spoiler, there’s a thought-out path for them down the line, but can’t tell you more than that at the moment.

Thanks for your question and wow, what a tough one to answer. To me it’s a little like answering which one of your children you love the most. I have always been very protective of Ludvig and Felicia and it was quite tough for me to let other creatives come in and have opinions there – but I believe when letting my guard down and having to change a certain way that I had imagined them to be, act and behave, it changed my opinion a lot for the better. 

Having had all these characters in my head for so many years then having actors coming in, claiming them, changing them, making them their own was quite scary for me – however they all kind of blew my mind away which was one of the most amazing feelings I have ever experienced, and that goes for all of them. I feel so fortunate to get to work with such a talented cast and they still blow my mind with their talent every day on set. 

Thanks for your question, have received a few of these questions and answered one with quite a long answer but eventually, yes. It might take a while due to all the things that has happened to the characters with Felicia and Amie and since Elias has developed feelings for Klara – but nothing in Season 1 was for nothing and like said above – there’s a thought-out path for them down the line. 

I have answered the question regarding Amie and Elias and their potential romance and well, we are aware that many of you are rooting for them but we will always try to make choices that effect all of characters in the greater story arch and what in the storylines and the archs that make sense for them for the time being in their lives, in the series. I will not tell what the future plans for the characters are since SVT would probably kill me if I did – but if we get renewed for a season 3 and if we’re lucky enough to get to make a season 4 and that the actors still want to play their characters in the series, our intention will be to have Amie and Elias remain in the show up until the grand finale.

In addition, our plan for all of the characters in the series will always be to have them evolve within themselves and not only in their relationship with or to another character. Love and friendship will be always be the most important themes of Eagles but our goal is to show that no character or person is 1-dimensional being, but rather 3-dimensional and have different sides to their personalities that make them act the way they do.

Thanks for your questions and love that you share potential theories. Unfortunately I cannot reveal what is about to happen and what role they all play or how things evolve – what I can say is that most of your questions and raised concerns will be answered or dealt with in the course of this season and the ones that don’t won’t be forgotten and will eventually come to a resolution or maybe end up in an even bigger conflict. 

The answer to the question in short is, yes, it’s super difficult. 

The reason why it’s difficult is because hockey in real life and hockey in storytelling is a lot different and to me working out the esthetics of the hockey was very important when pitching the show. I come from Oskarshamn myself and have a lot friend who plays or have played ice-hockey growing up – to me the goal was to make them feel like they could recognize themselves in the universe of the hockey and that it would feel real enough – also my goal was that people with a hockey interest would like the hockey action sequences. Meanwhile we also had to make sure that we created a hockey universe on the rink that people who doesn’t like hockey could understand and grasp and that the hockey action sequences would be interesting for someone who doesn’t like hockey as well. So it was quite difficult where to start.

Before even being commissioned I had a long dialogue with one of my good friend and colleague Simon Ekbäck Nordström who is a former hockey player, and had played at junior elite level, who also work as a Technical Director and 1:st AD in the industry, to have him on the show and to build this universe together with him if the show would go into production. When we did and when season 1 director Amanda came in our biggest task was to find a cinematographer who could film on ice. When meeting with Gabriel Mkrttchian who I had worked with before he introduced a camera rig set up called a DJI Ronin that would be able to make us follow players on the ice as Gabriel would be able to skate with them. We tested it, and we loved it! That and an combined research where I and writer Anton met with players between the ages of 15-35, really gave us an understanding of what things in the culture of ice hockey that people had in common and what was more local to Oskarshamn. In the process we even met with former NHL-players, only to understand how Mats would feel having ended a successful career and how it was to leave the sport behind him to move back to Sweden.

After that followed a long work of preparing how to film the scenes in the shortest amount of time and make them as visually astonishing as possible. Simon and Gabriel worked long hours to do maps of plays that the players would do and how we would capture it, also with the account that we had to have images shot when the actors are seen combined with scenes that are done by bodydoubles – believe me it was a puzzle, but a fun one to lay out. When going into season 2 our goal was to take what we had created and expand it, something that both me and Simon feel that we did, especially with the end scene of Episode 5.

This might be a very long answer to your question but yes, its difficult but it’s also extremely fun. Like Simon told me before we shot the hockey scenes for the first season: “Let’s go out and invent the wheel”. In Season 2, we tried to improve that wheel and for a hopeful season 3 we hope to perfect it.

Yes, they do know that, which we tried to portray by having Klara being quite lonely in the start of season 2, she and Amie doesn’t talk, Felicia’s look angry at a nervous Klara when she returns to school – Amie also says after having had food thrown on her by Felicia, and Klara asks if she’s fine: “Are you happy now” as an indicator that this is all Klara’s fault. One might feel that she didn’t get to pay the consequences yet, maybe she will, maybe she won’t – can’t tell what will happen but we as a creative team has always said that Klara wasn’t really the worst person in that specific plot point, Ludvig and Amie, not telling Felicia was a lot worse. With that said Klara could’ve definitely had done it nicer.

Yes, I would say it was. To me it was obvious that having the Kroons separated from each other was inevitable when Elias signed for another team and in order for the story to include all of our main characters and to be able to move forward in our storyline without being stuck in the aftermath of season 1 for to long with so few episodes in a season, we felt that we did needed for some time to pass in order to get story going again.

I think if you went into the writers room of Eagles and asked all of us what really happened in that room we would all have different answers.  I know what happened, but I’m not sure we will ever truly know for sure, unless Ludvig or Amie eventually are open enough to admit to anyone what really happened.

He does and so does Felicia. As we know Felicia doesn’t like Klara, but what we do know is that she hates Ludvig and Amie even more now. Like the old saying goes: Don’t kill the messenger.

Regarding if Klara is going to become a better person. Klara is and has always been thought of to be quite a complex person – when we did our research and met with teenagers during the development of season 1 and when started to develop Klara, me and my colleagues all had known or did know a Klara kind of person. When growing up I knew a lot of people that were kind of like Klara and I didn’t like them but when getting to know them later on in life it always showed out that these people came from carrying quite heavy loads and came from complicated lives – when they grew older some of them changed some of them didn’t. Klara however is a mirror of a person that my goal as creator and that I share with my colleagues, is to be more than what meets the eye. In the end she is, just like everyone around her , trying to find a way to be – she was raised to be a certain way, the way she is and hopefully she will understand that there’s other ways to be, that are nicer and better. But like I said, some learn, some don’t. Some react different to the fear of losing a friend, Klara’s reacted like she did. Some react on being betrayed by throwing food on them – what is right what is wrong is a very individual thing.  The thing is we know why Felicia did embarrass Amie – but we might not know all that we need to know about Klara to fully understand why she is like she is yet.  

Our initial goal was to connect the IG to the show, however a tight budget and regulations from SVT since they’re a public broadcaster has not made it possible for us to do as much as we wanted. Hopefully though as the series evolve, we will be able to connect the two. It would be amazing if that could happen.

Well they all kind of had a great conflict that lead to quite complicated relationships to each other in the end of season 1 and now slowly interactions will start coming to life, some mending will be done and some will wait – but eventually down the line we will have them all together, under whatever circumstances that forces them to be together – but that is a spoiler for a much longer arch.

The answer is there will be scenes with them – they might not be like you all thought they would be – but I can tell you that the story of Amie and Elias in Eagles is far from over.

Well, I have answered most of the questions and there is a plan, maybe sooner, maybe later. Will use a Swedish saying: Den som väntar på något gott, väntar aldrig för länge which means ”The one who waits for something good, does never wait for too long” – I have always rephrased it to say “The one who waits for something good, always wait for too long” and with that said we have not seen the last of Amie and Elias.

Thank you so much for this question. I am very happy you asked about this scene, because to me it’s a very personal scene. In one of the questions above I was asked if there’s anything in the storyline that is inspired by my own time growing up in Oskarshamn and I answered that there are bits and pieces. This is one of those bits and pieces.

To answer your question as clearly as possible before broadening my view on the meaning of the scene I’d like to say that the scene could mean both. To me that’s the beauty of creating stories and having an audience view it - because our intention for a scene does not always have to match the way you as an auditor view or interpret it.

So for the long answer with trivial content for the one who has an extra minute :P.

According to my personal relationship to the scene and what our intention was, I’d say that is connected to her parents' situation. The basic foundation for this scene was actually born outside of the writers room when we had just finished the storyline for Season 2. I was sitting with our Technical Director and 1:st AD, Simon Ekbäck at his home as we started to lay out a possible shooting schedule for the season. Together we imagined the scenes together and tried to envision them in front of our eyes and how they would cut together. I remember shutting my eyes and telling Simon that the episode should end with Leila and Felicia pulling the car aside by the water and that Leila wouldn't be able to hold her tears in anymore - and that Felicia would witness this, try to hold her tears back and then fail at holding it in. The original scene as it had been discussed in the writers room was that they would cry in the car on the driveway, but I felt like they needed to get out of there and that this was a scene needed to take place somewhere else, somewhere more private. When later watching the final scene one could have copied my imagination of how the scene would look and pasted it in - that happens very rarely, that something becomes just like you imagined it. But for this scene it did happen, much thanks to Simon, Kristoffer, Carl-Petter and of course Alva and Charlotta.

My personal attachment to the scene and what it really means doesn’t have directly to do with Felicia being sad over her parents' situation, because it would be too soon for her to truly realize what Leilas decision means. When I was 21, a bit older than Felicia, my parents seperated and I remember talking to my mother alot, watching her crying, having to comfort her and carry her weight and that made me feel very uneasy. When later talking about this with friends and processing it, I was told and have come to the realisation that we as children in the best of worlds should never have to carry the weight of comforting our parents in a divorce - which so many of us are forced to do. This has been a lesson and realization that I’ve taken in as something to carry with me, since I have just become a father myself. 

I mean even if our parents when we’re growing up are looked upon by us, their children as superheroes, they are only human in the end. Growing up makes us realize this and that has always been an important theme of Eagles, to see the true colors of our parents.

Comforting my mother during my parents' separation was tough, because I felt sad as well but had no room to express it - even though that I might have needed it. I was old enough to handle it, but many teenagers are a lot younger than I was, and for many children these situations can be very tough. 

To summarize, the idea of the scene has always been that Felicia is forced to be the comfort to her mother's pain. When her mother shows her vulnerability in front of Felicia Felcia tries to remain strong and hold her tears in - but eventually the situation gets too personal and she can’t, but she tries to hide it from her mom, thus looking the other way, out from the window so that Leila won’t see her crying. 

To me the scene is not meant to be a critique towards parents but rather a depiction of when it happens and is as important for the young and older audience to see and reflect about - because divorces happen all the time, and way to often children are forced to carry their parents when according to me, parents should remain strong and carry the weight for their children instead. 

Long answer to a short question, but yet again thank you for bringing this scene up. I hope you are satisfied with the story of the scene and my view of its meaning.

Thank you so much for all of your questions - hope that my answers will make you happy. Since we’re in the middle of a season it’s hard for me to answer some of them since they would contain spoilers. I also want to thank director Carl-Petter Montell who added a few notes in my answers.

Last but not least I wanna thank Eagles-translated for all the great work that is done in gathering fans for the series - I also wanna thank all of you, fans who follow the series. To me as a creator producer of a series I always say that without you, we as a creative team and we as a series would be nothing. A series without an audience is no series - so thank you again for watching, sharing and caring about our work!

[msjr0119]

We Belong

Part 12

Evangeline Bruley returns to Cordonia to take over her families Duchy. She was betrothed to the now King, however he is engaged to Duchess Riley but still has lingering feelings towards his first love. What will happen during her time back in Cordonia?

Just using combined tag list- if you want to be removed just let me know 😊

@pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @yukinagato2012 @dcbbw @qammh-blog @nz1091 @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @princess-geek @jared2612 @desireepow-1986 @gardeningourmet @twinkle-320 @queenjilian @forthebrokenheartedthings-blog @princessleac1 @scarletreesex

Warnings: Swearing, smut, mention of sex toys, mention of suicide.

Characters belong to Pixelberry apart from OC’s; Duchess Evangeline Bruley and Duke Tobias Farbridge.

*****

“What the hell? How is he dead? Why has he wrote Evie a letter?” Olivia interrupted the conversation between Glen and Bastien.

“I don’t know how he managed to do it, without anybody noticing. His body was hanging lifeless and the letter for Duchess Evangeline was beneath his body.” Glen just wished that the ground would swallow him whole- not knowing how Bastien would react to the negligence.

“Have you got it on you? The letter?” Bastien asked, Glen nodded and passed it over.

My dearest Evie, I’m so sorry for all the pain I caused you. I always loved you, I was stupid to let a diamond like you go- all for the sake of nothing. I had hoped in time that you’d forgive me, I killed the man who tried to rape you- the man who you would cry in your sleep about. Stupidly I believed once you knew my true identity that we could get back together. I was part of an assassination group, going against the crown- Bianca and Anton had reasons. I didn’t. I was just in it for the money- the money that I would have used to shower you with gifts, to pay for your dream wedding that we imagined. I didn’t mean to stab you, Bianca pushed you into me- I’d never hurt you again. I still don’t know if you survived or not, no one will inform me. I was an idiot. I can’t live without you knowing that it was always you- if you survived, I hope you find true happiness. Happiness that you deserve. Liam is in danger, Anton goes by a fake name known as Justin. He is Riley’s press secretary. I need you to tell someone, to protect my old friend and his family. I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done. But now I’ve told you this, I have no choice but to end my life. Toby xo

Bastiens eyes grew wide as he read the letter, he never intended to read it but was intrigued as to what the letter entitled.

“Liv, ring Liam now. I know it’s late. But they are in danger.”

*****

Maxwell sat at the table along with Drake, unable to keep his tone of voice low- Drake was ready to use a threat that only Olivia would get away with. Stabbing someone. That would shut him up for sure.

“So, what’s the sex like with you and Evie? Still as good?”

“Excuse me? How much have you had to drink? You don’t see me asking about yours and Hana’s sex life!”

“That’s because I’m like an open book Drakey- ask me anything and I’ll answer. Sooo?”

“Max, it isn’t sex with us- well not to me anyway. It’s different with Evie, it’s not just a fuck. It’s making love with the person you love.”

“What was Kiara then?” Resting his chin onto his palms, this was the most open Drake had ever been with him and he was intrigued.

“I like Kiara, as a friend. She was the only person to show an interest in me- so I went along with it. Possibly to try and block the thoughts about Evie out of my mind. But it never worked. Do you know the reason behind why we split up?” Maxwell bit his lip before hysterically laughing, Drake just assumed it was due to the alcohol.

“Yeah, everyone does. The minute she told Madeleine it was court gossip- you were fucking her but called her Evie. I think you must have had a premonition of what your future held.” Fuck. “But don’t worry, Kiara said she was lying about it once she knew it was Chinese whispers. So when are we going suit shopping?”

“What do you mean?” Drake questioned, again wondering if the alcohol had made his mind turn to slosh.

“Well you’re in love, I assume Evie will have a ring on her finger soon?”

“Jesus Max. I’ve only just gained her trust back.”

“Yeah and? It’s not like you’ve both just met. I was closer to her as kids, then you and your sister stole her away from me.” Maxwell over exaggerated a pet lip, feeling slightly sorry for himself.

“Oh I’m sorry Lord Maxwell, but we were practically orphans at that point. I lived with Evie for a good few weeks before moving to the palace. Do you know how hard it was for a fourteen year old to be living with his crush?”

“I can imagine very hard...” Maxwell winked as he focused his gaze towards Drakes penis. “But now you’re together, you need to get married, makes lots of gorgeous babies.. and.....” Drake jumped as Maxwell fell forward banging his head on the table - knocking himself straight out. Sighing Drake checked his pulse to check that he was still breathing before carrying him over to the couch.

“Great, I’m now babysitting two children.” He muttered to himself. Checking on Bartie, Maxwell’s word kept roaming through his mind- he had already thought about proposing to Evie but not right now. Climbing into bed, he held her tightly- looking forward to their break in Paris, looking forward to their future.

*****

Liam ran down to Olivias room, not knowing what to expect. If it was nothing important it would be him that was threatening to stab the Duchess- especially after she had disturbed him.

“Hello, Queen of Cordonia with a sexy king in between her legs....”

“Riley! I’m going to vomit. Just put Liam on...”

“He’s a bit busy... oh....yes...”

“RILEY!”

“Okay Liv, calm down...” passing the phone to Liam, he was frustrated with his friend.

“Liv, what the fuck?”

“You need to come to my room. Now! But hurry up and cum inside your wife first. Chop, chop!”

“Can’t it wait?”

“No!”

Liam read the letter, immediately feeling sorry for Evie until panic suddenly ran through his veins-Justin? Anton?

“Bastien, what’s happened to Toby’s body? Does Evie know? Can you escort myself and Riley onto our honeymoon immediately- we need to change the location. If you see Just- Anton, arrest him immediately. Do you hear me?”

“Yes, your Majesty. His body is still in the cell. No, Duchess Evangeline doesn’t know. Do you require me to let her know?”

“I’ll ring Drake, discuss what’s happened. I need you to inform his family about his passing. And call the ambulance to escort his body to the morgue.”

*****

Drake heard his phone ring, he was ready to curse whoever it was- even considered ignoring it due to the time.

“Li? Do you know what time it is? Bartie could wake up at anytime!”

“Drake...” Was the only word Liam could spit out, not knowing how to explain the revelations.

“Liam?” Sitting up in bed, he noticed that his friends tone of voice was worrying.

“Erm, Toby has somehow.... Justin.... isn’t Justin.”

“Liam, spit it out. I’m going to wake up Evie, Maxwell and Bartie...”

“Are you guys having a sleepover?”

“Impromptu... I’ll explain later. What’s up with Duke arsehole and Justin?”

“Toby hung himself... left a letter for Evie and Justin is Anton who was the ringleader for the attacks but he blamed your mom.” Drake looked at Evie sleeping next to him, not knowing how she would react to her ex fiancés death.

“Myself and Riley are being escorted onto our honeymoon immediately- mainly for precaution. I want you and Evie to go to Paris as soon as possible. I will pay the expenses. Just keep her safe. We don’t know what else Anton is capable of.”

****

The following morning, Drake woke Evie up- she wasn’t impressed with the time that he had woken her up. Noticing him panic, she had wondered what had gone off- he looked like he hadn’t slept a wink. Hearing a knock at the door, he shot out of the room.

“Bast?”

“Sorry if I woke you up. Anton is in the cells. I have informed Liam and are going to go to him now.” Feeling relieved, Drake hugged his father figure.

“How did you find him?”

“Olivia. She trapped him.”

“She trapped who?” Evie asked as she walked into the lounge- scowling at the two men.

“I’ll leave you both to it. Have a fabulous time in Paris. Drake. Duchess Evangeline.”

Evie perked her eyebrows up, waiting for Drake to elaborate on the conversation he had with Bastien.

“Well?” Drake guided her back to the kitchen table, explaining everything that had happened. Anton. Toby.

“Liam wanted us to go to Paris as soon as possible. To keep you safe. I’m sorry about Toby...” placing her finger over his lips- she didn’t shed a tear regarding her ex’s sudden death.

“Don’t be sorry, he didn’t mean anything to me. He was a mistake. A big one at that. I love you. The father to our baby.”

“I love you too. I will never hurt you like he did. I definitely won’t sleep with your friend.”

“I hope not, she hates you. She would potentially stab you before you got to first base.” Winking at him, he shuddered at the thought of sleeping with the scarlet duchess. “Besides, she wouldn’t get near you because you are mine Drake Walker.” Walking backwards towards the lounge, she provided him with a seductive grin.

“Watch.....” Drake shouted seeing where or who she was about to walk into.

“Evie! Jesus! Watch where you’re walking! My heads banging.” Screaming, she didn’t even notice Maxwell’s lifeless body sprawled out until he said this.

“What the fuck? Why are you here?”

“I could ask you the same question.... do you need some more tights Duchess Evie?” Her eyes widened, Drake tried to keep the laughter inside. Scrutinising the room for the tights she threw them at her friend.

“What the fuck? I’ve got my potential niece or nephew smeared on my face now!”

“Talking about nephew, Maxi. Myself and my handsome boyfriend have a flight to catch- enjoy babysitting duties with your hangover.” Maxwell waved them away.

*****

Arriving in Paris, Drake led them to Savannah’s apartment. Not knowing how Evie would react to staying there, he brought his credit card to pay for an expensive hotel- knowing that Evie was worth every penny of debt.

“So this is where Max kept Savannah and Bartie hidden all that time... it’s nothing much but it’s all he could afford with the Beaumont’s financial situation at the time.”

“It’s so quaint. If she had reached out, I was only a forty minute flight away- I could have stayed with her, supported her.” And this is why I love you.

“I know you would have done. She was so broken. I’m just glad we found her in the end. I’m glad that you are back in Cordonia. I have my family back.”

“So I’m family now?”

“To me you are. I meant what I said, I want us to have a family. Drake, Evangeline, Tommy and Grace Walker.”

“What if we had two boys, or two girls? Or just one child?”

“We will have to come to that decision when the time comes...so what do you want to do?”

“I want to do you....” Drake smirked, leading her to his bag he emptied the contents out of it. Seeing the contents her eyes widened- then she saw the note.

Yes, I’m the best friend ever- don’t remind me. You’ve got all sorts of precaution here; flavoured condoms, small sized condoms as well as large (I don’t know how big little Walker is). I’ve added some lube, handcuffs, a dildo (not sure if you’ll need it), anal beads, a cock ring.... why am I writing this? You’ll be able to see exactly what’s there unless Drakes chickened out. Have a blast you two sexy beasts! Ps I still have a hangover- and Bartie is screaming because I’m refusing to watch Peppa Pig.. HELP ME! Jokes. Love ya both!!!

“I dread to think what he and Hana get up to? How the fuck did you get through security with all of this?”

“I have no idea.... but we only need one thing...”

“What’s that?”

“Large condoms. Don’t need any lube, you’re instantly wet when I’m around you....”

“Oh am I?” Leading his hand towards her body, she lift her skirt up- guiding his hand to confirm if indeed his assumption was correct.

“See I was right- unless you’ve pissed yourself?”

“Are you going to show me to the bedroom Walker?”

“Or we could do it there?” Pointing to the balcony, Evie bit her lip not knowing if she dare risk it.

“Al fresco sex? Make sure you cover me up. My body is for your eyes only...”

*****

Liam and Riley arrived at their honeymoon destination. On route Liam explained the situation back home- the urgency to leave the palace at such hours. Hearing the news about Anton, she placed her hand over her bump- thankful that nothing had happened to their baby. Selfishly she wasn’t thinking about anyone but the heir, until she realised that he was the reason behind Evie’s miscarriage through his minions.

“They were aiming for me that night Liam. What if... oh my god. Drake and Evie could have still had their baby if we’d have known earlier on... Drake’s going to kill him...”

“Life is unfair at times. Drake and Evie can have children in future if that’s what they want. Don’t worry about it. I just want you to relax.. we are safe here. Anton is in the cells along with Bianca. There are extra guards- mainly on one to one basis, so neither of them can mimic Toby’s actions.”

Riley remained silent, not wanting the events to affect her already postponed honeymoon.

“I can’t believe we are finally celebrating our marriage...it’s still like a fairytale dream...” leaning onto Liam, he lent down and passionately kissed her as they laid on the beach. “I’m sorry it’s not the original location, but I need you to be safe. I assumed Anton would know the location and try again. I’m looking forward to tonight...”

“Oh. Why is that your Majesty?” He looked at her with a seductive smirk, placing his hand on her leg.

“My Queen, I believe I do not need to answer that...” Standing up, he held his hand out towards her- guiding her to their bedroom. Fuck waiting for tonight. Holding on to his large biceps, they entered the room - Liam immediately shut the door before pining her to wall. Kissing her passionately, Riley couldn’t gasp for air or move as his hands roamed her body in a matter of urgency.

“Li.... I... I... need ... to..”

“Shit. Sorry! I’m so sorry Riley.”

“Get on the bed my king. I have a surprise for you...wait there.”

Gulping as he walked over to the bed, he loosened his top buttons on his shirt- his mind wondering what his wife was doing. Hearing the bathroom door open- his eyes widened, seeing her pose next to the door in a red babydoll lingerie set.

“Before I get fatter my King, I am going to take control... I want you to stay still- no touching...” Before he could respond, Riley straddled him- feeling his erection, she smirked as she knew how excited he was. Natural instinct led his hands to go around her waist- shaking her head he knew he had already failed. Removing his hands, he let them fall to the side- cupping his cheeks she lent forward. Her breasts pressed against him- her lips soon touched his, her tongue slid across his begging for permission to enter. Breaking the kiss, she lent backwards slightly as she began to finish unbuttoning his shirt- in one swift motion she removed it throwing it onto the floor. Running her hand over his bare chest, Liam wasn’t sure how much longer he would be able to cope with his wives delicate touches. She was teasing him, he was fully turned on. Moving her lips towards his neck, one hand desperately grabbed his cock between her legs.

“Ri... I can’t take this anymore...”

“I’m surprised you lasted this long. You can touch me now if you want my king.”

Thank fuck. Without hesitating, his hands released her breasts as he removed the lingerie she was wearing. Cupping her breasts, he lent forward whilst support her back. Licking one nipple, one hand massaged the other as she let out a low moan.

“Ri, stand up...” following his commands, she stood up expecting him to follow. Leaning forward he kissed her growing stomach, before standing up to remove his trousers and boxers. His lips travelled up her body before eventually meeting her lips in a passionate kiss, turning her around he encouraged her to lay on the bed. Hovering over her, he separated her legs- placing gentle kisses on the inside of her thighs causing her body to tremble. Plunging his tongue into her already wet folds, she gripped onto the soft sheets that they were laid on- holding on for dear life. Removing his tongue, he kissed every inch of her body before he met her soft lips again. Their breathing was now in unison, both needing to take the opportunity of being alone. “Liam, lay on your back...”

Laying down, Riley soon got on top of him and guided his cock inside of her. Riding him, he held on to her hips guiding her.

“Baby, carry on...” increasing her speed- they were moving in sync, their moans were in sync. Riding out the pleasure, she could feel his cock pulsate inside of her. Spilling his hot seed, they both waited a bit before she laid next to him and snuggled into his embrace.

“I love you...” He whispered into her ear, before placing his hand across her stomach. “And I love you too daddy’s little princess.”

“We love you too.” Liam smiled, feeling content with his family. He knew on the honeymoon, that it was just to two of them with Bastien not too far away. These next few days are going to be bliss, he thought as Riley fell asleep on his chest.

*****

A week later Maxwell, Bartie, Hana and Olivia arrived in Paris. They met; Savannah, Bertrand, Bastien, Liam and Riley at the apartment. The moment Olivia saw Bastien, she jumped into his arms- gripping her nails into his neck. “I’ve fucking missed you, so fucking much.” Placing her back on the floor, he cupped her cheeks- forcing a kiss on to her lips. Biting her lower lip, he immediately regretted losing himself in her- as she was being poked by his little friend. Placing her hand over his trousers, she gently stroked him- teasing him, giving him a preview of what was about to happen later that night.

“Duchess Olivia, you have a tear in your tights. I’d throw them away if I was you. You have gorgeous legs anyway.” Olivia looked at him confused, as did the others who just decided to get on with their own thing. Winking at her, he placed his hand on her thigh, pulling the tights. Olivia smirked at him, removing the tights- he pinned her against the wall, knowing he could get away with it without prying eyes watching them. Slipping a finger inside her, he knew he had to be quick- super quick. Feeling her juices run almost immediately, he increased the number of finger. “Bast. Fuck. I need to take you somewhere else...” Hearing her he continued his movements, making her cum twice in the short space- removing his fingers, his thumb rubbed her clit. “I’ve missed you too baby.”

“You two come on! We have shit to do... we haven’t got all day...” Maxwell shouted, knowing that they were still stood near the door. Walking further into the apartment, Olivia was mortified at the sight.

“Can someone remind me why we are all here and not in some five star hotel?”

“So Drake text me before....” Liam began, Maxwell and Savannah nodded knowing exactly what he was going to say as they received the same text.

“He’s proposing to Evie at the Eiffel Tower tonight. Hence why it’s empty at the moment.”

“He’s what?” Olivia believed this was too soon, hoping that Evie wouldn’t freak out- she knew her best friend the best out of them all.

“He brought our grandmothers ring, he loves her Liv... he wants that family with her- the one that was snatched away from them.”

“Soooo, are we going to decorate then?” Maxwell enthusiastically asked, whilst grinning like the Cheshire Cat. Pouring the contents out of his bag, there were banners as well as party poppers.

*****

Arriving at the Eiffel Tower, Drake wanted to keep this trip for their last day. Over the last week they had done plenty of sightseeing, as well as eating out. Majority of the other time they had spent wrapped up in each other’s limbs. Seeing Evie in awe at the top of the tower, she kept mentioning how beautiful the sight was in front of them.

“Drake, we need to take a selfie. New memories for the two of us...” Drake looked mortified at the suggestion but agreed because he loved the woman that was at the side of him. Holding her tightly, he snuggled into her- as she took the picture he closed his eyes as he kissed her on the cheek.

“Aww, we need to print this one off. I love you.”

“I love you too. Are you ready for the next surprise?”

“Surprise?”

“I’ve paid for a meal at the restaurant, but requested that it would be just the two of us. You deserve everything, Evie. I want this to be special for you.”

“You’re amazing!” Unable to contain her excitement she jumped into his arms. “I am so lucky to have you, I can’t believe you’ve thought about all of this.” She whispered into his ear. I’m the lucky one, your grace.

“Come on, they’ll be waiting for us.” Placing her back down, she placed her hand into his as they made their way over to the restaurant.

*****

After they had eaten, Evie was on cloud nine- adorably staring at the man who had made all of this possible. Their friends were correct, they needed this break away from Cordonia and the drama that was surrounding it. Drake paid the waiter and thanked him for the food, Evie assumed that they would be leaving- however Drake had all of a sudden become nervous. Holding his hand, she noticed that it was extremely clammy.

“Drake?” Oh fuck, she’s giving me that concerned look. Act normal Walker.

“Yeah?”

“Are you okay?”

“Of course I am.” Evie nodded, providing him with a soft smile. Finishing the whiskey, he knew he needed this Dutch courage. Standing up, he crouched down besides her.

“Evie... I just want to say thank you.”

“What for? It’s me who should be saying that. You’ve brought me to Paris, treat me like a princess...”

“You deserve it. If I could give the world, I would... come over here. Let’s look at the view one last time.” Standing up, he guided her towards the window- standing behind her held her tight as he snuggled into her.

“I want to say thank you for putting up with me. It’s still like a dream that you would choose me...” Holding on to his hand, she lent back into him as she watched the city below them. “We are soulmates Drake. I think deep down I’ve always known that...”

“It’s always been you in my heart, even when you wasn’t mine. I wish that I had the courage to tell you all those years ago... I was jealous with your brief relationship with Liam, even though you never loved him- I never thought you’d look twice at the commoner who was practically an orphan. But you can see me for who I am, I don’t want to ever lose you. I will keep to my promise about being there for you at all times, protecting you from now on, always loving you.” Placing his hand on her stomach- she knew that he felt guilty as to what had happened. But nothing could change that. Turning her around, he ran his fingers through her hair- her eyes were sparkling matching the city lights.

“You are so beautiful...”

“You’re so handsome my brooding commoner.” Winking, she was attempting to have a joke at his expense with the low esteem he contained. It’s now or never, he thought to himself. Taking a deep breath, he knelt onto one knee.

“Evangeline Grace Bruley, will you marry me?” Evie froze, yes he had spoken about their future overtly- but she assumed that would be in the future. Not present. Panic began to run through her veins.

“I’m sorry Drake...”

[tisthenightofthewitch]

With Ghost, can the devil’s music finally become a family affair?

Cardinal Copia has a lot to prove. He doesn’t have the blood of a pope, but as the newest bandleader for Satanic rockers Ghost, he’s got youth and “sexual charisma,” according to the clergy. The church needs that: all of Copia’s predecessors are dead. Papas Emeritus I, II and III were assassinated and embalmed earlier this year. The snappy-dressing, jukebox-carrying cardinal’s their only hope.

Until the next album. You can watch the playfully dark succession story unfold on YouTube, used this time to hype Prequelle, Ghost’s fourth LP.

Behind each newly appointed skull-faced preacher is actually the same guy. A fan of history, heavy metal and the 1980s, Tobias Forge is Ghost, the next in a lineage of Grammy-winning rock bands who wear costumes and sing about the devil. Backed by masked musicians called Nameless Ghouls, and the oldest of the fictional popes, the saxophonist Papa Nihil, Ghost makes a tour stop at the Community Center Theater on November 15.

Can the band please the clergy, or at least Sacramentans who grew up on Ozzy Osbourne, Alice Cooper and Judas Priest? Because that’s exactly who this music is for.

Listen to Prequelle’s “Dance Macabre,” an arena rock love anthem sewn as a dark party for the dead, and you’ll see what I mean: It’s a nostalgia trip to that bygone marriage of glam and horror, with reverb-heavy drums, triumphant keys, layered vocal melodies, power-metal riffs and a wanting guitar solo. And similar to bands like Iron Maiden, Ghost pulls from history for contemporary commentary: The song “Rats” retells the Black Plague, so in this case the 14th century. Wonder who they’re calling out?

After a 2015 Grammy win for Best Metal Performance, Ghost is making a name for itself as torchbearers for a classic kind of heavy music. SN&R spoke with the frontman about the apocalypse in Prequelle, creating satanic music that’s inviting to everyone, and Forge’s love for his brother, who died in 2010, on the same day Forge uploaded Ghost’s first EP on Myspace and became an overnight sensation:

Are you a big history buff?

I’m not a historian. I’m interested in history. It’s a lot of ground to cover if you look at it from a worldwide basis, but try me.

There are a lot of historical parallels being drawn right now. To the Cold War. To World War I and II. What’s Prequelle about, and how are you pulling from history here?

The main concept is mortality … Acknowledging the fact that you can persevere so far, but as far we know, you’re likely to succumb to some sort of ending. … And I think from an apocalyptic perspective … that has been preached and prophesized many, many times. Civilizations have come and gone. And new ones arose at the expense of others. … It’s easy to think of humanity as very complicated, but at the end of the day, it’s very simple. We’re not that smart. We move in groups. And we tend to do the same things over and over again.

Are you responding to any recent historical cycles you’ve observed?

Well, politically, in terms of the Cold War, there’s a lot of things … You have a little bit of Watergating here, you have a little bit of the crisis of the mid 1900s going on. We still have huge countries against each other. I’m talking about Russia and America, and me as a European, we’re sort of sitting in between, which is not very different than how it was in the ’50s … But from a worldwide perspective, I also think that there are enough people in the world who don’t want it all to go away permanently … I want to believe that we will be able to look back on this 50 years from now as one of those weird points in history when things were a little bit rocky. But then 50 years from now, there will be something else.

How do you see your role, being a popular musician playing apocalyptic music?

I am an entertainer. I am here to make you feel potentially a little bit better about the world, and in your every day-to-day life. … I guess a lot of the entertainment I’m into, especially when It comes to rock, has some sort of social take, commenting on the contemporary state of the world, especially in the ’60s, the ’70s … But I don’t have higher hopes than that in terms of Ghost’s relevance to what is going on. I don’t think we’re changing a whole lot. But I think we can probably be a little bit of a band aid for anyone who likes Ghost and what we and we’re doing. Hopefully [we] can be a pillow to squeeze if the times feel rough.

In the ’80s, artists like Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne were known for incorporating Satanic themes, and upsetting Christians. But that was 40 years ago. Are there any ways that you’re music has offended people, that surprised you?

I think that I have been personally more subjected to people who have said the opposite. Just coming from a traditionally more conservative background, and then being surprised that they are oddly in favor of what Ghost is doing. Maybe not 100 percent from a philosophical point of view, whatever that means, but it still resonates in a positive way among people who would traditionally not like “satanic rock music.” … I have theories about it, but I don’t know, maybe it’s just the fact that heavy metal in the 1980s was way more of a household thing, and the gap between generations was bigger at that point, so you’d have the 15 to 25-year-old teenagers in 1980 or 1985. Their parents would have been 40 or 50 at that point, and were potentially of a different breed than most of the 40 year olds, 50 year olds, 60 year olds today. … But it all depends on how you present yourself as a spokesperson for a band like this. I’m not here to shock people who are not willing to be shocked, if that makes sense. I’m not here to throw a grenade into the god-fearing home, trying to rip your family apart … I want them to come to the show and have fun and feel good about themselves, and want to live their lives … not to commit suicide or go kill someone. I want people to be happy and embrace life. … I can imagine Rob Halford [of Judas Priest] having never said anything unlike what I just said, nor Ozzy Osbourne.

Are you a Satanist?

From a strictly Christian point of view, if that means believing in a physical, half man, half-ram living in the underground, no, I don’t believe there is such a thing. I’m not the opposite either. … And you know, I’m sure in the eyes of the beholder, if I was put in front of true god-fearing bible thumpers, I would probably be regarded as a Satanist … just because I’m not a god-fearing bible thumper. But the concept of Satanism has many, many forms … In the last 50 years now, ever since [Anton] LaVey and pop-cultural Satanism, when that rose in the latter of the part of ’60s with the Church of Satan, and Black Sabbath and Black Widow and Coven and that sort of hippie Satanism, which at the end of the day, heavy metal, black metal, all that is based upon that cultural Satanism. … I grew up with that. … So from that point of view, I would definitely say that culturally, I am definitely, for lack of better way of putting it, I’m a devil-liking kind of guy. But … I wouldn’t sacrifice a baby to a half-ram that I believe to be living in the underground. … And I would never ever encourage anyone to do that.

Oh good. In an interview with Revolver magazine, you likened Ghost to procreating with rock history. What has Ghost meant to you?

Obviously, it’s meant the world … Not only am I myself depending on it, but I have two kids depending on it. I have a wife who’s depending on it. I have around 30 people around me living on this. So obviously it has a great feel of significance for me … It’s very much reliving a lot of the things that I did as a kid, when I dressed up as KISS and Alice Cooper, and watched horror films. It’s very much reconnecting with a lot of the things I grew up with. It’s very childish. In a regurgitating kind of way.

Is that what you meant by “procreating?”

I guess so, I’m not involving myself as a child in that, so don’t go incestuous or weird here. (Laughs.) I’m definitely wallowing in my past. I’m very much a typical kid who grew up in the ’80s. Just because I had a brother who was older than I … I got a lot of teenage culture from him at an early age. I’m definitely wallowing in that. If I would meet myself in 1985, you can compare the things I’m interested in, and not a whole lot has happened, really. I’m searching to recreate myself as a five-year-old with my brother. That feels important.

NewsReview.com

[janethepegasus]

A weird idea relating to @ask-squipspam , if there was like a stage show about Spam. He would be played by Spencer Day (just imagine all of his songs in his smooth singing voice) and story would be from his awakening all the way to his confrontation with Tobias (played by Eric William Morris) In some of the sketches here are scenes from this play idea, like Spam singing to Jeremy of how he needs him, Spam killing Anton (but not literally as you can tell by the spot light), Tobias talking to Spam, And Spam singing his big solo (his version of The Pitiful Children)

[estherattarmachanek]

Introduction of RIBOCA2 online series of talks and conversations

Due to the current situation 2nd Riga International Biennial of Contemporary Art (RIBOCA2), and suddenly it all blossoms, had to be reimagined and the project will now transform into a feature movie and the unfinished exhibition will become its film set. The film itself will present a dialogue between finished, unfinished, and absent works. It will be equally a reflection on thresholds; of standing at the intersection of past and nascent worlds. For a full introduction to the idea please visit RIBOCA website.

ONLINE SERIES OF TALKS AND CONVERSATIONS

TODAY, 21 May 2020 we are launching the online series of talks and conversations, imagined with Associate Curator of Public Programmes Sofia Lemos. Unfolding through RIBOCA’s digital platform, it is constructed from a glossary that has been crucial to the Biennial’s curatorial proposition. Outstanding minds are invited to reflect on words such as Endings, Nature, Love, Ruins, Healing, Magic, Cosmos, Underground, Care, Dreams, Dance, Imagination, Human, Wildness, Ghosts, Language, Metamorphosis, Voices, Fictions and Futures, taking them as lenses through which to consider alternative perspectives and visions for our presents and futures.

The series of talks and conversations bring together outstanding thinkers, researchers, and writers from various fields. They include physicist and queer theorist Karen Barad, anthropologists Marisol de la Cadena, Tim Ingold and Anna Tsing, philosophers Federico Campagna and Emanuele Coccia, poet CAConrad, sociologist Boaventura de Sousa Santos, philosopher Vinciane Despret, sociologist and writer Avery F. Gordon, art historian Boris Groys, queer theorist Jack Halberstam, researcher Marina Simakova, artists Anton Vidokle and Arseny Zhilyaev from the Institute of the Cosmos, performance studies scholar André Lepecki, critical theorist McKenzie Wark, feminist writer and geographer Sophie Lewis, philosopher Michael Marder, environmental humanities and feminist thinker Astrida Neimanis, anthropologist Tobias Rees, artist Nikolay Smirnov and curator Kaspars Vanags in conversation with scholar Birgit Menzel, and prison-abolitionist and poet Jackie Wang with mathematician Alexander Moll.

For a full list of events, dates, participant biographies and thematic detailed descriptions, please visit the RIBOCA2 Public Programmes.

[thrashermaxey]

Dobber’s Offseason Fantasy Grades 2018: Edmonton Oilers

Dobber's offseason fantasy hockey grades – Edmonton Oilers

  For the last 15 years (12 with The Hockey News, last year’s via pinch-hitter Cam Robinson) Dobber has reviewed each team from a fantasy-hockey standpoint and graded them.

The 16th annual review will appear here on DobberHockey throughout the summer. This is not a review of the likely performance on the ice or in the standings, but in the realm of fantasy hockey.

Enjoy!

  * * Buy the 13th annual DobberHockey Fantasy Guide here – always updated and you can download immediately * * 

  Gone – Yohann Auvitu, Iiro Pakarinen, Laurent Brossoit, Eric Gryba, Anton Slepyshev, Mike Cammalleri

  Incoming – Tobias Rieder, Kyle Brodziak, Kevin Gravel, Mikko Koskinen

  Impact of changes – It looks like just a simple dressing room upgrade this summer, along with what is probably going to be a huge upgrade in the backup goaltender. Brodziak is a strong dressing room presence, Gravel is a depth defenseman with a lot of size, and Rieder offers good two-way depth although his offensive upside can be overrated at times. Koskinen has been a top KHL goaltender for years and if Cam Talbot stumbles again this year and Koskinen could theoretically steal the top job if he dominates the NHL half as well. Talbot had a heavy workload the last two seasons, averaging 70 starts, and he also had twin babies that no doubt threw him off his schedule at times.

The message here is that the team plans to play with the hand they have. The main weakness – defense – can’t be fixed via free agency. And when they tried, well, you know how that story went. To try the trade route again would have other NHL GMs licking their chops. No thank you. With a better workload and mindset, Talbot will bounce back. And with Connor McDavid lighting it up with his newfound wingman Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, the 7-6 wins will be fun to watch. McDavid had 61 points in his last 39 games, with RNH a big part of that over the final 20. Moving Ryan Strome to third-line center and making Nugent-Hopkins first-line left wing was a great move for all involved and completely changed Edmonton’s fortunes, albeit too late. Now GM Peter Chiarelli is gambling on that magic just continuing.

  Ready for full-time – Ethan Bear gave mixed results during his 18-game stint with the big club late last season. On one hand he showed some creativity and vision when it comes to the offense. But there was plenty of bad decision-making and with his lack of foot speed he often can’t recover from those bad decisions. But everything is a lesson for 21-year-olds and it’s all a part of the development curve. Bear is still the next guy in line for a recall when the team needs a defenseman (and if they don't find a replacement for Andrej Sekera that could be sooner than they should). Added AHL time will only help, and that is probably where he will be for at least the first half of the season. (Read Bear's scouting profile here)

Cooper Marody was acquired from the Flyers in the summer after a strong college campaign. The Oilers signed him shortly after as he forewent his senior year. The team will likely give him a look this season at some point. He had 51 points in 40 games for Michigan in 2017-18, and is a right-shooting centerman who could be an answer to their right wing problem if the other attempts (Ty Rattie, Pontus Aberg, Jesse Puljujarvi, Kailer Yamamoto) fail to bear fruit right away. (Read Marody's scouting profile here)

Speaking of Rattie, he will finally get his shot. He signed his first one-way contract after closing out last season on the McDavid line. He’s 25 and most pundits believe that at that age his odds of making the jump so late and succeeding are slim. This is partially the product of him being such a highly regarded prospect when he was 18, 19, 20 and 21 – perhaps poolies feel jaded? He has his shortcomings, but did anyone care about Rob Brown’s shortcomings when he was putting the puck in the net alongside Mario Lemieux? Did anyone care about Matt Moulson’s shortcomings when he was doing the same alongside John Tavares? If Rattie is given 20 games alongside McDavid, I think he’ll make it work. If Coach Todd McLellan loses patience under fan pressure if things look terrible eight games in – then it won’t work. I’m going to put it at 30% that McDavid makes a Matt Moulson out of him. Bold? Well that’s my middle name. In fact, if you type DobBoldHockey.com in the URL bar up top it will forward you to this site. Not really. (Read Rattie's scouting profile here)

  Edmonton Oilers prospect depth chart and fantasy upsides can be found here (not yet ready for mobile viewing, desktop only right now)

  Fantasy Outlook – Anytime you have a forward who can potentially get 70 points, then you want that forward. Even if the odds are slim. Well, on the Oilers you can say that about most of the forwards that have one iota of offensive skill. Yes, this means you have a bunch of fantasy owners running around with a butterfly net trying to catch something and often looking foolish doing it, but it’s what makes fantasy hockey fun. The thrill of the catch! Can you imagine if Pontus Aberg clicks with McDavid and sticks all year? He did for a handful of games when he first arrived from Nashville. And Ty Rattie? What about wunderkind Kailer Yamamoto? Former third overall pick Jesse Puljujarvi? Enticing us further is that there is a consolation prize. If the winger doesn’t click with 110-point McDavid, then perhaps he settles for 75-point Leon Draisaitl. That would mean 60 or 65 for a skilled winger, which is also a great result.

The Oilers seem inept and it starts with management. But teams built around generational talent get it right eventually. Not most of the time – all of the time. You just saw a Cup won by one of them! So my faith in Edmonton remains unflagging, and I would love to own any fantasy relevant player on this team.

  Fantasy Grade: A- (last year was A)

    Pick up the 13th annual DobberHockey Fantasy Hockey Guide here (out on August 1)

OR

Get the Fantasy Guide and the Prospects Report as part of a package and save$8.00 – here!

    Other Fantasy Grades:

  Fantasy Outlook for the Anaheim Ducks

Fantasy Outlook for the Arizona Coyotes

Fantasy Outlook for the Boston Bruins

Fantasy Outlook for the Buffalo Sabres

Fantasy Outlook for the Calgary Flames

Fantasy Outlook for the Carolina Hurricanes

Fantasy Outlook for the Chicago Blackhawks

Fantasy Outlook for the Colorado Avalanche

Fantasy Outlook for the Columbus Blue Jackets

Fantasy Outlook for the Dallas Stars

Fantasy Outlook for the Detroit Red Wings

    from All About Sports https://dobberhockey.com/hockey-home/the-dobotomy/dobbers-offseason-fantasy-grades-2018-edmonton-oilers/

[connorrenwick]

Knoll Creates a Moroccan-Inspired Showroom for Its Home Design Shop in LA

When Knoll announced that it was opening its first ever Home Design Shop in Los Angeles, we knew we had to fill up the tank and make the drive out to see the store ASAP. Designed by Johnston Marklee, Knoll design director Benjamin Pardo, and interior designer Barbara Reimelt of The Ninety Nine Group, the showroom is that quintessentially Knoll mix of traditional and contemporary design that the brand has championed for decades.

The design of the Shop was inspired by the 16th-century York Castle in Tangier, Morocco that was in crumbles until former Knoll president Yves Vidal bought it in 1961 and restored it to its original Moroccan glory. To Vidal, the medieval fortress was the perfect backdrop for his furniture, an indisputable example of how contemporary and traditional design can live happily and beautifully together beneath the same castle roof. Under the direction of Florence Knoll, design force of nature and wife of founder Hans Knoll, the showrooms were arranged as tableaus of habitable environments, a concept wildly forward-thinking for showrooms back then but has since become the norm.

Before stepping into the showroom, you can already start to see the Moroccan influences on the building, a terrazzo and marble-clad corner shop with oversized brass-framed windows with rounded arches inside, each framing a specific furniture tableau. Herringbone flooring is complemented by systematically-draped felt panels from FilzFelt in the ceiling. All around the store, a collection of classic Knoll designs from Florence Knoll, Eero Saarinen, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Marcel Breuer and Harry Bertoia fill up every corner of the showroom, in addition to new designs available in the US for the first time ever by Piero Lissoni and Tobia Scarpa. In short, it’s a design wonderland that calls out to all design lovers.

We got the chance to catch up with Knoll design director Benjamin Pardo and Anton Schneider from Johnston Marklee to learn more about the store(y) and goal behind the store…

Why did you pick this city?

BP: The location at the intersection of Robertson Boulevard and Rosewood Avenue is ideal for connecting the Los Angeles residential design community and consumer design enthusiasts with our modern legacy as well as new contemporary furniture, textiles and accessories from the world’s leading architects and designers.

The corner location offered Mark Lee the opportunity to design an oversized storefront window inspired by Yves Vidal’s York Castle in Tangier. Lee incorporated the same Moorish arches from York Castle to frame varying contemporary vignettes. The result is a bold juxtaposition of contemporary designs with traditional architecture.

How did you go about designing the store?

AS: Besides studying the history of Knoll from the perspective of their product and architecture, the images of Yves Vidal’s castle in Tangier were a rich source of inspiration. We loved how many classic pieces of Knoll furniture work so beautifully and unexpectedly within the domestic context of this Moroccan castle. In addition to Vidal’s York Castle, the historic legacy of spaces for Knoll played an important role in treating the project as a chance to add to that history. The store is organized around a rich material palette reminiscent of Northern Italian architecture of the 1950’s and 60’s.

What do you hope to achieve with this design?

AS: We tried to create an environment that emulates a domestic quality to provide a backdrop that is more intimate and relatable than the showroom for the pieces. While providing flexibility for different setting and groupings of furniture, it is important that the space has character. It is not a neutral backdrop but an active one that interacts and establishes a dialog with the pieces.

We always associate Knoll with the Modern, which entails being innovative while designing for the present. Through the juxtaposition of materials and forms – from felt to brass, from vaults to ovals, we are trying to evoke the atmosphere that exists somewhere between the past and the future.

Has it changed much since it opened? How?

BP: Since the opening, we have showcased a range of new and classic designs in the window displays; the façade, clad in hand polished grey terrazzo with white marble aggregate, draws people in.

What’s your favorite item in the store right now?

BP: I’m looking forward to having my own Bertoia side chair in Rose Gold with a cashmere shearling seat pad. It’s an unexpected statement of a tried and true classic.

AS: The Bertoia Side Chair in Rose Gold and MR Chair in Rattan.

What is this season’s theme/inspiration/story?

BP: The Shop captures the modern spirit of Knoll, focusing on creative lifestyle inspiration with a range of new materials and finishes, including rosso rubino marble, rose gold metallic, cavallini hair hide leather and curly shearling.

Are you carrying any new products and/or undiscovered gems you’re particularly excited about?

BP: We are particularly excited about products from our collection in Europe such as the new Avio sofa and Grasshopper table by Piero Lissoni in addition to the archival Bastiano Lounge Collection by Tobia Scarpa. These products are now being offered in the U.S. for the first time, further expanding the Knoll portfolio and range of exuberant materials.

What’s been a consistent best seller?

BP: Warren Platner’s chairs and tables in gold metallic have captured the imagination of Los Angeles.

Any special events/exhibits/pop ups/collaborations coming up?

BP: We expect to provide complementary programing in concert with WestWeek and the LA Design Festival.

Do you have anything from the store in your own home?

BP: I am partial to Florence Knoll pieces, and I recently acquired David Adjaye’s outdoor chairs.

What’s next for the store and the brand?

BP: We are looking forward to introducing a new chair design by Marc Newson in the spring.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned since opening this store?

BP: I think it’s important to step back and realize that just because a design or a grouping of objects is cast as Modern or belonging to a style, those designs are not eternally bound to that particular sensibility. And, based on the reaction thus far, we sense our intention to re-image modern is appealing.

To visit the new Knoll Home Design Shop, stop by 314 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048.

Photos by Knoll and Eric Staudenmaier.

via http://design-milk.com/

from WordPress https://connorrenwickblog.wordpress.com/2018/03/06/knoll-creates-a-moroccan-inspired-showroom-for-its-home-design-shop-in-la/

[amtushinfosolutionspage]

Your Favorite NHL Team Is Going to Blow It at the Trade Deadline

It happens once a year like clockwork. The names are usually big, the expectations are always high and even though you know you will come away disappointed, you can’t avert your eyes from it. No, it’s not a big budget DC movie—it’s the NHL’s trade deadline.

Instead of wasting your time by looking at the needs of teams and potential available players and getting your hopes up, I’m going to give you the straight truth about the deadline—your GM will botch it and/or the players your team gets won’t matter. Maybe your team will acquire a draft pick that becomes the star player that leads your team to a title in 2026, but chances are, your GM will screw up the pick like he’s screwed up everything else.

So here’s why your stupid team will screw up the trade deadline.

Listen to the latest episode of Biscuits, VICE Sports’ hockey podcast

31. Arizona Coyotes

When your organizational philosophy is, “Spend as little on the team as possible so we can invest it in cryptocurrency,” the Stanley Cup isn’t in your future. John Chayka took over a team with 76 points two seasons ago and, after an offseason designed to improve the team immediately, they are on pace for 61 points this season. That would be the fewest points in team history. Look for Chayka to acquire dead salary cap money or a talented young player he will trade again in two years.

30. Buffalo Sabres

What possible trade can a team make when the team is haunted? Can it acquire a Ghostbuster? Jack Eichel has to be one of the five unhappiest millionaires in the world. Why does Stephen King set all his books in a fake New England town when Buffalo is clearly the scariest place in the world? The Sabres are somehow worse than they were two years ago when they landed Eichel.

29. Ottawa Senators

https://sports.vice.com/en_ca/embed/article/wjp8zb/ottawa-deserves-better-than-eugene-melnyk?utm_source=stylizedembed_sports.vice.com&utm_campaign=vbppmx&site=sports

We are two weeks away from owner Eugene Melnyk firing the GM, coach, trainer, a popcorn guy in the lower bowl of the Accumulated Debt Center, and a parking attendant so he can do the jobs himself and save a few bucks. I’m no hockey scientist but when your trade deadline strategy is to shed money like you’re Montgomery Brewster, the Stanley Cup isn’t in your plans. Ever. Melnyk should just put himself in the lineup for a Leafs game and get it over with. Maybe he’ll do that after he deals Erik Karlsson for 35 cents on the dollar.

28. Montreal Canadiens

Imagine being two years removed from having traded PK Subban and still being in charge of that roster? This is like Exxon letting the guy who crashed an oil tanker into an iceberg chart courses for all future tanker voyages. And now the Habs are letting Marc Bergevin make another round of franchise-altering decisions. Somehow I doubt Max Pacioretty for Ryan Callahan straight up will help the Habs end their Stanley Cup drought.

27. Vancouver Canucks

Listening to Jim Benning talk about why he re-signed Erik Gudbranson as opposed to trading him should make clear why the Canucks are doomed. Instead of fleecing a team for a second-round pick, Benning wanted to lock up a defenseman that’s never been good but people thought he’d be good a decade ago. Also, he’s tall. A professional talented evaluator is basing decisions on the length of a guy’s stick. I’m excited to see if Benning forgets to trade Thomas Vanek. “Oh, right, that guy is a UFA after this season, isn’t he? That’s on me, guys. My bad.”

26. Edmonton Oilers

Canadian teams all suck again, huh? Do you think the Oilers have a handler for Peter Chiarelli at things like the GM meetings? Like, there’s a guy with a taser that renders Chiarelli unconscious if he ever wanders into a room alone with David Poile so he doesn’t trade Connor McDavid for Nick Bonino. “The Oilers are in the market for some wingers” is a damn fun sentence to type. What a league!

25. Detroit Red Wings

This once-proud franchise is desperately and obviously in need of a rebuild, which was why after last season it was fun to hear Ken Holland say, “Nobody wants to see a rebuild.” Hey, when you’re packing 6,000 per night into a taxpayer-funded pizza joint, you have to get to 85 points any way you can. Waiting to trade Petr Mrazek until his value was at an all-time low is the type of progressive thinking you want from a general manager that’s not under contract for next season. Hanging on to Mike Green until he has a lingering upper-body injury days before the deadline? Holland is playing chess while you’re playing checkers, my friends.

24. Chicago Blackhawks

It’s hard to see a way the Blackhawks bounce back any time soon. Cap circumvention is no longer allowed and they are out of valuable players to package with bad contracts in trades that only help in the short term. What exactly would Stan Bowman have to attach to Brent Seabrook to get another team to take him? The formula for time travel? The pee tape? They say it’s wrong to take delight in the misery of others but that does not include the Blackhawks.

23. Florida Panthers

I love that the guy who let Jonathan Marchessault and Reilly Smith go to Vegas in exchange for massage coupons is once again helming a pivotal point for the franchise. What do you think Dale Tallon would have paid for Erik Gudbranson in a trade? Aleksander Barkov and a first? Tallon is probably only still employed by the Panthers because of a human resources paperwork error. He’s Milton from Office Space but with power. He will yet again be given the opportunity to drag the team down even further because nothing matters in this organization. It’s a great reflection of America, when you think about it.

22. New York Rangers

I totally have faith in a front office that fancied itself a contender seven months ago when it gave Kevin Shattenkirk a gigantic contract and is now announcing to the world it will sell anyone that is bolted to the ice. You mean the fellas that overpaid Brendan Smith and then sent him to the AHL are plotting the course for the future? How do you not have confidence in that sort of vision?!? This is also the leadership group that chose Dan Girardi over Anton Stralman. The Rangers went 54 years between their last two Stanley Cups and it will be another 100 years before they win another one.

21. Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets could somehow acquire John Tavares, Erik Karlsson, Ryan McDonagh, Rick Nash, and sign a 24-year-old clone of Wayne Gretzky created from his DNA, and John Tortorella would still find a reason to play Jack Johnson and Brandon Dubinsky 40 minutes a night. This is also the team that let William Karlsson go in the expansion draft, so there’s no one to trust here. Either the trade will be bad or the trade will be good and Tortorella will cut the player’s ice time because he refused to block a shot with his dick in practice.

20. New York Islanders

Garth Snow has botched more picks than a greasy-handed defensive back and wasted the prime years of a Hall of Famer, but hell yeah, let’s have him in charge of the biggest decision in franchise history… what to do with John Tavares. In any other sport, the GM trades the elite talent headed for free agency when the team is at best a coin flip to make the playoffs, then pushes to re-sign him in the offseason. But this is the dumbest sport in the world, so the GM that’s underwhelmed for a decade will hang onto Tavares for the rest of the season and potentially lose him for nothing instead of reaping a bounty of futures at the deadline (that he’d probably botch, anyway). The Islanders are the Kobayashi Maru of hockey.

19. Carolina Hurricanes

This is the fourth season of Ron Francis’ reign as GM and he’s got a shot to bring the Hurricanes to the playoffs for the first time since 2009. Francis already messed up his best chance to improve the goaltending with his idiotic signing of Scott Darling (please do not search for my opinions on Darling before this season) and now the team is one or two pieces away from being a perennial playoff contender, so look for him to pull the trigger on someone like Kris Versteeg or James Wisniewski, moves that won’t help or hurt either way.

18. Colorado Avalanche

Joe Sakic is still in charge of the Avalanche, right? It’s amazing how after he netted a bunch of prospects and picks for Matt Duchene, suddenly people wondered if he was now good at his job. He is not. It’s not a great transaction history for Patrick Roy’s best buddy. He found a way to get less for Nick Holden than the Rangers did. Life is a mystery but you can be assured that Sakic will get suckered by someone that had fewer than 1,000 points in their NHL playing career.

17. Calgary Flames

Brad Treliving has done well and the Flames are headed in the right direction, but there’s still a little bit of that We Need Guys Who Will Punch Your Dicks Guys thing that doesn’t help. I could see the trade report across the scroll: “Flames acquire C Zac Rinaldo from the Coyotes in exchange for sixth-round pick.” And that will be the Flames’ only move.

16. Los Angeles Kings

Dean Lombardi’s ghost is still running things if the Kings think Dion Phaneuf on the roster for the next 100 years helps. The Kings won two Cups after robbing the Blue Jackets blind at the deadline so I will withdraw this if there is a big Kings-Blue Jackets trade on Monday that sends Artemi Panarin to the Kings for Phaneuf in a 1-for-1 deal. Maybe the Coyotes are the new Blue Jackets but somehow I don’t think Tobias Rieder is headed toward a Jeff Carter/Marian Gaborik finish to the season.

15. New Jersey Devils

It’s been an unexpectedly great season for the Devils, who look locked into a playoff spot with two months to play. But really, what did Ray Shero really do here? He answered a late night drunk dial from Peter Chiarelli and robbed him in the Adam Larsson-Taylor Hall trade; won a draft lottery that landed him Nico Hischier, and dealt Adam Henrique for Sami Vatanen in a no-brainer deal that was only possible because of winning the draft lottery. Shero is due to drop a turd on the floor. Maybe he brings Douglas Murray out of retirement.

14. Philadelphia Flyers

Ron Hextall hasn’t been a buyer since becoming a GM in 2014, as the Flyers have mostly been bad thanks to another former Flyer running the team into the ground. Hextall has made some good deals away from the deadline, and getting Petr Mrazek was one of them. I guess what I’m saying here is the Flyers suck and there’s nothing Hextall can do to help this team win a Cup this year. The Flyers have been run by an ex-player since 1994; guess how many times they’ve won the Cup over that stretch? It’s zero. That was an easy game.

13. Anaheim Ducks

Last year, Bob Murray acquired Patrick Eaves and the Ducks lost in the conference finals with Eaves missing most of the playoffs with a high-ankle sprain. Two years ago, Murray loaded up by landing Patrick Maroon, Brandon Pirri, and Jamie McGinn, who made it possible for the Ducks to lose in the first round in seven games instead of six. The list of times Murray did the wrong thing goes on and on.

12. Minnesota Wild

Some GMs get their jobs because they were awesome at hockey decades ago; others get the gig because their dads were GMs. Meet Chuck Fletcher, the guy who let Alex Tuch go to the Vegas and gave up a first- and second-round pick at last year’s trade deadline for Martin Hanzal, who legally dies before every postseason. I don’t know what Fletcher has up his sleeve this year but I bet it’s used to overpay for someone who doesn’t help the Wild win more than five playoff games.

11. St. Louis Blues

Doug Armstrong might be Batman. He’s made a lot of bad moves yet he uses these diversion tactics and people think he’s a hero. He’s adapted to the darkness. Remember the Ryan Miller deal? Goodness. That was also the Steve Ott deal. The Blues have been fading since a strong start so your only hope is he’s out fighting crime and using a weirdly deep voice instead of taking calls from other GMs.

10. San Jose Sharks

Doug Wilson has been pretty much winging it since he tried to shame Joe Thornton into accepting a trade a few years ago and then the Sharks got good again. Despite an aging core, Wilson never looked at rentals, and instead focused on getting players with term left on their contract, like Jannik Hansen. Why make your team much better in the short term when you can do virtually nothing to help it over a longer timeline with guys like Hansen? Sharks hockey, baby!

9. Dallas Stars

Jim Nill once traded a conditional first-round pick for Kris Russell. That’s the end of this section.

8. Pittsburgh Penguins

Jim Rutherford has actually made some helpful moves at the deadline to help the Penguins win Cups. But just like other wise GMs, Rutherford has already fortified his contender with [squints at roster] Riley Sheahan and [rubs eyes] Jamie Oleksiak. When you run out of cap space, you always do it for a 30-point center and the Dallas Stars’ worst defensemen. Someone should do a study on how many GMs create legacies by winning titles with another GM’s players and put Stan Bowman and Jim Rutherford statues outside the Other People’s Titles Hall of Fame.

7. Washington Capitals

Against all odds, after a summer of shedding salary and useful players, the Capitals are still near the top of the league. Objectively worse than they have been the past two years, Brian MacLellan has said he doesn’t expect the team to be buyers like they were last year, because as we all know, Alex Ovechkin will not continue to age, nor will Nicklas Backstrom. It’s also important to pin your team’s perpetual shortcomings on two months of Kevin Shattenkirk, this way you can be gun shy about landing a big name again. If at first you don’t succeed, trade for Michal Kempny.

6. Toronto Maple Leafs

https://sports.vice.com/en_ca/embed/article/yw34xw/nhl-gms-keep-their-jobs-whether-they-suck-or-not?utm_source=stylizedembed_sports.vice.com&utm_campaign=vbppmx&site=sports

From the team that brought you “Patrick Marleau for three years and $19 million” last summer comes the exciting late-winter follow-up, “some guy Mike Babcock likes that isn’t all that helpful.” I don’t know who is coming to Toronto but you know it will be someone that gets too many minutes and isn’t all that skilled. Maybe it will be Roman Polak’s cousin Greco Polak who will play 22 minutes a night because he’s “hard to play against.” Someone should let the Leafs know their window to win a title is open sooner than they expected so they should go back in time and get Marleau’s cap hit off the books so they can add an expensive defenseman.

5. Winnipeg Jets

I like to picture Kevin Cheveldayoff around deadline day like other people are when it comes to visiting the dentist. He knows he has to go but he’s constantly putting it off for silly reasons. “What’s that? Ken Holland’s on the phone? Oh, um, tell him I can’t talk trade right now because… ummm… my dog’s sick, yeah. Sorry.” Then enough time passes and instead of his teeth falling out his team falls apart. They say when a door closes, God opens a window. Maybe that window is a championship window in Winnipeg and God is Cheveldayoff, ready to land a fourth-line winger for a sixth-round pick.

4. Nashville Predators

David Poile does all his work before the deadline so he can spend deadline day doing things like signing 37-year-old men that haven’t played hockey in eight months. When it’s time to load up at the deadline, that’s when Poile lands all his playoff healthy scratches, like PA Parenteau and Mike Santorelli. The Preds lost James Neal in the expansion draft and as a Cup favorite, it’s great to see Nashville looking into offensive-minded replacements like Rick Nash, because any time you can snag a guy that hasn’t cracked 40 points in three seasons and consistently falls flat in the playoffs, you have to look into that.

3. Boston Bruins

Once you add Nick Holden to a Cup contender, isn’t your job already done? Don Sweeney can put his feet up and relax now that he added the defensemen who was run over during last year’s playoffs by the run and gun Ottawa Senators. When you have a fast moving boat, it’s always important to tie anchors to it. Look for Sweeney and Cam Neely to add to the “Bruins culture” by acquiring 100 pounds of literal grits to rub on David Pastrnak’s body.

2. Tampa Bay Lightning

Steve Yzerman is a tremendous GM when it comes to arriving at a job where the foundational pieces are already there or using a terrible CBA to leverage great RFAs into taking bad deals because other GMs are too chicken shit to use an offer sheet. At the trade deadline, this is when Yzerman lands guys like Braydon Coburn and Ryan Callahan. He’s also the guy who let Jonathan Marchessault walk for nothing and gave three-goal scorer Callahan $6 million a year through 2020. That’s the guy you want evaluating talent for a Cup favorite.

1. Vegas Golden Knights

What a season. What a time to be a sports fan. An expansion team with championship aspirations in its first year. And what other general manager would you have in charge of a team like this other than George McPhee? The guy who traded Filip Forsberg for Martin Erat and got in on the ground floor of the Capitals Can’t Get Past The Second Round movement is now tasked with getting the team over the top. Maybe a trade of Alex Tuch for Brent Seabrook? Tie McPhee to a blackjack table all day Monday. It’s the only way Vegas wins.

This article originally appeared on VICE Sports CA.

Your Favorite NHL Team Is Going to Blow It at the Trade Deadline syndicated from https://australiahoverboards.wordpress.com