#Eagle Elite Series

[franticvampirereads]

August was a really great reading month. I think I read more fantasy books this month alone than I’ve read in the last four years combined? It’s been so nice! Here’s what I read this month:

Street Magic 4⭐️ {review}

Off Key 4⭐️ {review}

Fresh Ink 4⭐️ {review}

Therapy Game Restart vol 3 4.5⭐️ {review}

Alpha Dragon’s Eagle 4⭐️ {review}

Kings Rising 5⭐️ {review}

Mr. Villain’s Day Off vol 1 4⭐️ {review}

Intoxicating 4⭐️ {review}

That Time I Got Drunk And Yeeted A Love Potion At A Werewolf 5⭐️ {review}

My favorite books this month were Kings Rising and That Time I Got Drunk, both were fantastic and I just want more of them 😭❤️.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Retiring the US debt would retire the US dollar

THIS WEDNESDAY (October 23) at 7PM, I'll be in DECATUR, GEORGIA, presenting my novel THE BEZZLE at EAGLE EYE BOOKS.

One of the most consequential series of investigative journalism of this decade was the Propublica series that Jesse Eisinger helmed, in which Eisinger and colleagues analyzed a trove of leaked IRS tax returns for the richest people in America:

https://www.propublica.org/series/the-secret-irs-files

The Secret IRS Files revealed the fact that many of America's oligarchs pay no tax at all. Some of them even get subsidies intended for poor families, like Jeff Bezos, whose tax affairs are so scammy that he was able to claim to be among the working poor and receive a federal Child Tax Credit, a $4,000 gift from the American public to one of the richest men who ever lived:

https://www.propublica.org/article/the-secret-irs-files-trove-of-never-before-seen-records-reveal-how-the-wealthiest-avoid-income-tax

As important as the numbers revealed by the Secret IRS Files were, I found the explanations even more interesting. The 99.9999% of us who never make contact with the secretive elite wealth management and tax cheating industry know, in the abstract, that there's something scammy going on in those esoteric cults of wealth accumulation, but we're pretty vague on the details. When I pondered the "tax loopholes" that the rich were exploiting, I pictured, you know, long lists of equations salted with Greek symbols, completely beyond my ken.

But when Propublica's series laid these secret tactics out, I learned that they were incredibly stupid ruses, tricks so thin that the only way they could possibly fool the IRS is if the IRS just didn't give a shit (and they truly didn't – after decades of cuts and attacks, the IRS was far more likely to audit a family earning less than $30k/year than a billionaire).

This has become a somewhat familiar experience. If you read the Panama Papers, the Paradise Papers, Luxleaks, Swissleaks, or any of the other spectacular leaks from the oligarch-industrial complex, you'll have seen the same thing: the rich employ the most tissue-thin ruses, and the tax authorities gobble them up. It's like the tax collectors don't want to fight with these ultrawealthy monsters whose net worth is larger than most nations, and merely require some excuse to allow them to cheat, anything they can scribble in the box explaining why they are worth billions and paying little, or nothing, or even entitled to free public money from programs intended to lift hungry children out of poverty.

It was this experience that fueled my interest in forensic accounting, which led to my bestselling techno-crime-thriller series starring the two-fisted, scambusting forensic accountant Martin Hench, who made his debut in 2022's Red Team Blues:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250865847/red-team-blues

The double outrage of finding out how badly the powerful are ripping off the rest of us, and how stupid and transparent their accounting tricks are, is at the center of Chokepoint Capitalism, the book about how tech and entertainment companies steal from creative workers (and how to stop them) that Rebecca Giblin and I co-authored, which also came out in 2022:

https://chokepointcapitalism.com/

Now that I've written four novels and a nonfiction book about finance scams, I think I can safely call myself a oligarch ripoff hobbyist. I find this stuff endlessly fascinating, enraging, and, most importantly, energizing. So naturally, when PJ Vogt devoted two episodes of his excellent Search Engine podcast to the subject last week, I gobbled them up:

https://www.searchengine.show/listen/search-engine-1/why-is-it-so-hard-to-tax-billionaires-part-1

I love the way Vogt unpacks complex subjects. Maybe you've had the experience of following a commentator and admiring their knowledge of subjects you're unfamiliar with, only have them cover something you're an expert in and find them making a bunch of errors (this is basically the experience of using an LLM, which can give you authoritative seeming answers when the subject is one you're unfamiliar with, but which reveals itself to be a Bullshit Machine as soon as you ask it about something whose lore you know backwards and forwards).

Well, Vogt has covered many subjects that I am an expert in, and I had the opposite experience, finding that even when he covers my own specialist topics, I still learn something. I don't always agree with him, but always find those disagreements productive in that they make me clarify my own interests. (Full disclosure: I was one of Vogt's experts on his previous podcast, Reply All, talking about the inkjet printerization of everything:)

https://gimletmedia.com/shows/reply-all/brho54

Vogt's series on taxing billionaires was no exception. His interview subjects (including Eisinger) were very good, and he got into a lot of great detail on the leaker himself, Charles Littlejohn, who plead guilty and was sentenced to five years:

https://jacobin.com/2023/10/charles-littlejohn-irs-whistleblower-pro-publica-tax-evasion-prosecution

Vogt also delved into the history of the federal income tax, how it was sold to the American public, and a rather hilarious story of Republican Congressional gamesmanship that backfired spectacularly. I'd never encountered this stuff before and boy was it interesting.

But then Vogt got into the nature of taxation, and its relationship to the federal debt, another subject I've written about extensively, and that's where one of those productive disagreements emerged. Yesterday, I set out to write him a brief note unpacking this objection and ended up writing a giant essay (sorry, PJ!), and this morning I found myself still thinking about it. So I thought, why not clean up the email a little and publish it here?

As much as I enjoyed these episodes, I took serious exception to one – fairly important! – aspect of your analysis: the relationship of taxes to the national debt.

There's two ways of approaching this question, which I think of as akin to classical vs quantum physics. In the orthodox, classical telling, the government taxes us to pay for programs. This is crudely true at 10,000 feet and as a rule of thumb, it's fine in many cases. But on the ground – at the quantum level, in this analogy – the opposite is actually going on.

There is only one source of US dollars: the US Treasury (you can try and make your own dollars, but they'll put you in prison for a long-ass time if they catch you.).

If dollars can only originate with the US government, then it follows that:

a) The US government doesn't need our taxes to get US dollars (for the same reason Apple doesn't need us to redeem our iTunes cards to get more iTunes gift codes);

b) All the dollars in circulation start with spending by the US government (taxes can't be paid until dollars are first spent by their issuer, the US government); and

c) That spending must happen before anyone has been taxed, because the way dollars enter circulation is through spending.

You've probably heard people say, "Government spending isn't like household spending." That is obviously true: households are currency users while governments are currency issuers.

But the implications of this are very interesting.

First, the total dollars in circulation are:

a) All the dollars the government has ever spent into existence funding programs, transferring to the states, and paying its own employees, minus

b) All the dollars that the government has taxed away from us, and subsequently annihilated.

(Because governments spend money into existence and tax money out of existence.)

The net of dollars the government spends in a given year minus the dollars the government taxes out of existence that year is called "the national deficit." The total of all those national deficits is called "the national debt." All the dollars in circulation today are the result of this national debt. If the US government didn't have a debt, there would be no dollars in circulation.

The only way to eliminate the national debt is to tax every dollar in circulation out of existence. Because the national debt is "all the dollars the government has ever spent," minus "all the dollars the government has ever taxed." In accounting terms, "The US deficit is the public's credit."

When billionaires like Warren Buffet tell Jesse Eisinger that he doesn't pay tax because "he thinks his money is better spent on charitable works rather than contributing to an insignificant reduction of the deficit," he is, at best, technically wrong about why we tax, and at worst, he's telling a self-serving lie. The US government doesn't need to eliminate its debt. Doing so would be catastrophic. "Retiring the US debt" is the same thing as "retiring the US dollar."

So if the USG isn't taxing to retire its debts, why does it tax? Because when the USG – or any other currency issuer – creates a token, that token is, on its face, useless. If I offered to sell you some "Corycoins," you would quite rightly say that Corycoins have no value and thus you don't need any of them.

For a token to be liquid – for it to be redeemable for valuable things, like labor, goods and services – there needs to be something that someone desires that can be purchased with that token. Remember when Disney issued "Disney dollars" that you could only spend at Disney theme parks? They traded more or less at face value, even outside of Disney parks, because everyone knew someone who was planning a Disney vacation and could make use of those Disney tokens.

But if you go down to a local carny and play skeeball and win a fistful of tickets, you'll find it hard to trade those with anyone outside of the skeeball counter, especially once you leave the carny. There's two reasons for this:

1) The things you can get at the skeeball counter are pretty crappy so most people don't desire them; and ' 2) Most people aren't planning on visiting the carny, so there's no way for them to redeem the skeeball tickets even if they want the stuff behind the counter (this is also why it's hard to sell your Iranian rials if you bring them back to the US – there's not much you can buy in Iran, and even someone you wanted to buy something there, it's really hard for US citizens to get to Iran).

But when a sovereign currency issuer – one with the power of the law behind it – demands a tax denominated in its own currency, they create demand for that token. Everyone desires USD because almost everyone in the USA has to pay taxes in USD to the government every year, or they will go to prison. That fact is why there is such a liquid market for USD. Far more people want USD to pay their taxes than will ever want Disney dollars to spend on Dole Whips, and even if you are hoping to buy a Dole Whip in Fantasyland, that desire is far less important to you than your desire not to go to prison for dodging your taxes.

Even if you're not paying taxes, you know someone who is. The underlying liquidity of the USD is inextricably tied to taxation, and that's the first reason we tax. By issuing a token – the USD – and then laying on a tax that can only be paid in that token (you cannot pay federal income tax in anything except USD – not crypto, not euros, not rials – only USD), the US government creates demand for that token.

And because the US government is the only source of dollars, the US government can purchase anything that is within its sovereign territory. Anything denominated in US dollars is available to the US government: the labor of every US-residing person, the land and resources in US territory, and the goods produced within the US borders. The US doesn't need to tax us to buy these things (remember, it makes new money by typing numbers into a spreadsheet at the Federal Reserve). But it does tax us, and if the taxes it levies don't equal the spending it's making, it also sells us T-bills to make up the shortfall.

So the US government kinda acts like classical physics is true, that is, like it is a household and thus a currency user, and not a currency issuer. If it spends more than it taxes, it "borrows" (issues T-bills) to make up the difference. Why does it do this? To fight inflation.

The US government has no monetary constraints, it can make as many dollars as it cares to (by typing numbers into a spreadsheet). But the US government is fiscally constrained, because it can only buy things that are denominated in US dollars (this is why it's such a big deal that global oil is priced in USD – it means the US government can buy oil from anywhere, not only the USA, just by typing numbers into a spreadsheet).

The supply of dollars is infinite, but the supply of labor and goods denominated in US dollars is finite, and, what's more, the people inside the USA expect to use that labor and goods for their own needs. If the US government issues so many dollars that it can outbid every private construction company for the labor of electricians, bricklayers, crane drivers, etc, and puts them all to work building federal buildings, there will be no private construction.

Indeed, every time the US government bids against the private sector for anything – labor, resources, land, finished goods – the price of that thing goes up. That's one way to get inflation (and it's why inflation hawks are so horny for slashing government spending – to get government bidders out of the auction for goods, services and labor).

But while the supply of goods for sale in US dollars is finite, it's not fixed. If the US government takes away some of the private sector's productive capacity in order to build interstates, train skilled professionals, treat sick people so they can go to work (or at least not burden their working-age relations), etc, then the supply of goods and services denominated in USD goes up, and that makes more fiscal space, meaning the government and the private sector can both consume more of those goods and services and still not bid against one another, thus creating no inflationary pressure.

Thus, taxes create liquidity for US dollars, but they do something else that's really important: they reduce the spending power of the private sector. If the US only ever spent money into existence and never taxed it out of existence, that would create incredible inflation, because the supply of dollars would go up and up and up, while the supply of goods and services you could buy with dollars would grow much more slowly, because the US government wouldn't have the looming threat of taxes with which to coerce us into doing the work to build highways, care for the sick, or teach people how to be doctors, engineers, etc.

Taxes coercively reduce the purchasing power of the private sector (they're a stick). T-bills do the same thing, but voluntarily (they the carrot).

A T-bill is a bargain offered by the US government: "Voluntarily park your money instead of spending it. That will create fiscal space for us to buy things without bidding against you, because it removes your money from circulation temporarily. That means we, the US government, can buy more stuff and use it to increase the amount of goods and services you can buy with your money when the bond matures, while keeping the supply of dollars and the supply of dollar-denominated stuff in rough equilibrium."

So a bond isn't a debt – it's more like a savings account. When you move money from your checking to your savings, you reduce its liquidity, meaning the bank can treat it as a reserve without worrying quite so much about you spending it. In exchange, the bank gives you some interest, as a carrot.

I know, I know, this is a big-ass wall of text. Congrats if you made it this far! But here's the upshot. We should tax billionaires, because it will reduce their economic power and thus their political power.

But we absolutely don't need to tax billionaires to have nice things. For example: the US government could hire every single unemployed person without creating inflationary pressure on wages, because inflation only happens when the US government tries to buy something that the private sector is also trying to buy, bidding up the price. To be "unemployed" is to have labor that the private sector isn't trying to buy. They're synonyms. By definition, the feds could put every unemployed person to work (say, training one another to be teachers, construction workers, etc – and then going out and taking care of the sick, addressing the housing crisis, etc etc) without buying any labor that the private sector is also trying to buy.

What's even more true than this is that our taxes are not going to reduce the national debt. That guest you had who said, "Even if we tax billionaires, we will never pay off the national debt,"" was 100% right, because the national debt equals all the money in circulation.

Which is why that guest was also very, very wrong when she said, "We will have to tax normal people too in order to pay off the debt." We don't have to pay off the debt. We shouldn't pay off the debt. We can't pay off the debt. Paying off the debt is another way of saying "eliminating the dollar."

Taxation isn't a way for the government to pay for things. Taxation is a way to create demand for US dollars, to convince people to sell goods and services to the US government, and to constrain private sector spending, which creates fiscal space for the US government to buy goods and services without bidding up their prices.

And in a "classical physics" sense, all of the preceding is kinda a way of saying, "Taxes pay for government spending." As a rough approximation, you can think of taxes like this and generally not get into trouble.

But when you start to make policy – when you contemplate when, whether, and how much to tax billionaires – you leave behind the crude, high-level approximation and descend into the nitty-gritty world of things as they are, and you need to jettison the convenience of the easy-to-grasp approximation.

If you're interested in learning more about this, you can tune into this TED Talk by Stephanie Kelton, formerly formerly advisor to the Senate Budget Committee chair, now back teaching and researching econ at University of Missouri at Kansas City:

https://www.ted.com/talks/stephanie_kelton_the_big_myth_of_government_deficits?subtitle=en

Stephanie has written a great book about this, The Deficit Myth:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/05/14/everybody-poops/#deficit-myth

There's a really good feature length doc about it too, called "Finding the Money":

https://findingmoneyfilm.com/

If you'd like to read more of my own work on this, here's a column I wrote about the nature of currency in light of Web3, crypto, etc:

https://locusmag.com/2022/09/cory-doctorow-moneylike/

Tor Books as just published two new, free LITTLE BROTHER stories: VIGILANT, about creepy surveillance in distance education; and SPILL, about oil pipelines and indigenous landback.

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

https://pluralistic.net/2024/10/21/we-can-have-nice-things/#public-funds-not-taxpayer-dollars

[tzuyubb]

Hypnosis Therapy

Pairing: Blackpink Jennie x Male reader

Word count: 4774 words

Tags: hypnosis, size kink, lingerie, spanking, discipline, SPH (of her ex’s), blowjob, gagging, deepthroat, throatjob, facefuck, throatpie, missionary, spread eagle, cowgirl, reverse cowgirl, doggy style, pronebone, belly bulge, mind break, submission, slave, ahegao, deep penetration, rough sex, humiliation, creampie

A/N: I've been sitting on this draft for a while now. So, when I got a hypnosis prompt, I decided that it would be perfect as my proper comeback to smut writing. Honestly, I love the premise, so I might make it a series that I post along with The Gentlemen's Playground.

You sat in your office, a cozy and inviting space in the bustling heart of Seoul. Your unique approach to therapy has garnered a stellar reputation among the city's elite, including the world-famous music and entertainment industry. Your specialty was using hypnosis to guide your clients, helping them navigate the intense stress and pressure that came with their high-profile careers. Today, as you looked at the appointment list, your only session for the morning was with a new client, Jennie, a member of the girl group Blackpink.

Minutes later, you heard the doorbell ring, a wave of excitement washed over you and you unlocked the door. Jennie entered your office, her presence exuded both confidence and a hint of vulnerability. Her stunning beauty and charisma were undeniable, and you could easily understand why she had captivated fans worldwide.

"Hello, Jennie," you greeted her with a warm smile, your voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've heard so much about you."

"Hi, Dr. Y/N," Jennie replied, her voice soft and slightly hesitant. "I've been told such amazing things about your work, so I'm hoping you can help me with some personal matters that have been troubling me."

You gestured to the comfy couch across from your chair, inviting her to take a seat. "Please, make yourself comfortable. Everything discussed within these walls remains confidential. You can feel safe sharing whatever is on your mind."

Jennie nodded, her eyes briefly scanned the tastefully decorated room, and she took a seat. "Thank you for seeing me on such short notice. I know your schedule is tightly packed."

"Not at all, I've only had the best experiences with your company, so when they contacted me for an appointment, I cleared the morning for our session" you assured her, your tone soothing. "Now, why don't you start by telling me what brings you here today?"

Jennie took a deep breath as if gathering the courage to share something deeply personal. "Well, it's about my… sex life," she began, a slight flush creeping onto her cheeks. "I've never openly discussed this with anyone, even the other members, but I feel like it's affecting my overall happiness."

You maintained a calm and supportive demeanor, creating a judgement-free atmosphere. "It's perfectly okay, Jennie. Sex is a vital aspect of our lives, and it's entirely valid to seek help in this area. Please, tell me more."

"It's just…" Jennie paused, carefully choosing her words. "I've never truly been satisfied with my sex life. All my past relationships… they've all left me feeling somewhat… physically unfulfilled."

You leaned forward, your eyes filled with genuine interest and empathy. "I see. I understand that this can be a challenging topic to discuss, but I'm here to listen and help in any way I can. Please, spare no detail."

"It's not just that," Jennie continued, her voice gaining confidence as she sensed your unwavering support. "The guys I've been with… they all had smaller… you know… and it's just never felt quite right for me. I've watched those porn videos, the ones with massive cocks stretching girls out, and I can't help but wonder what that would feel like. I've also heard stories from Lisa about her and her boyfriend and can't help but feel jealous."

Your eyes widened slightly at Jennie's sincere admission, but you quickly regained your composure and professionalism. "It's completely natural to have those curiosities and desires. Sexual pleasure is very personal, and it's okay to want to explore and experience different things that you may prefer," you say, your voice steady.

Jennie bit her lip, her eyes darted down to her fidgeting hands on her lap. "I know it might sound superficial, but I can't shake the feeling that I'm missing out on potential pleasure. All the guys I've been with have been Asian, and I guess I'm just curious about… bigger sizes."

You nodded mischievously, your mind formulating a plan to help Jennie in a way that would surpass her wildest expectations. "It's not superficial at all, Jennie. It's okay to have those thoughts and desires. In fact, I believe I can assist you with that."

Jennie looked up at you, her eyes filled with hope. "You can? How?"

"Well," you began, leaning back in your chair and smiling warmly. "As a specialist therapist, I have some unique methods at my disposal. One of which is hypnosis, a favourite amongst my regular clients."

Jennie's eyes widened in surprise. "Hypnosis? Like making people forget their names and sleep from a snap of your fingers?"

You chuckled and reassured her. "That's the kind of hypnosis you see in shows, meant for entertainment. However, the hypnosis I use is a powerful tool for therapy. It allows people to access their subconscious minds, making them more receptive to suggestions and open to new experiences."

"So, you're saying you're going to hypnotise me?" Jennie asked, her voice a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

"Yes," you replied confidently. "Under hypnosis, I can help you explore your deepest desires, release your inhibitions and pent-up feelings, and even potentially enhance your future sexual experiences."

Jennie's eyes sparkled with excitement and nervousness. "That sounds… intriguing. But what if I get stuck in hypnosis forever?"

You smiled "That's a common misconception. Hypnosis is a natural state we all experience daily, like when you're so focused on a task that you lose track of time. You always remain in control, even in a hypnotic state."

"Oh," Jennie said, looking slightly relieved. "So, how will you actually hypnotise me?"

"I'll guide you into a relaxed state, and then I'll make suggestions to your subconscious mind," you explained. "Your conscious mind might not recall everything, but your body and subconscious will respond accordingly."

"And you're confident this could help me?" Jennie asked, filled with hope.

"I'm sure it will," you assured her. "Now, are you ready to give it a try?"

Jennie took a deep breath and nodded. "Yes, let's do it."

"Wonderful," you say, your voice calm and soothing. "Just relax and focus on my voice. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths…" Jennie followed your instructions, her eyelids gently closed as she inhaled and exhaled slowly.

"That's it," you continued, your voice low and hypnotic. "With each breath, you're relaxing more and more. Your body is becoming heavy, and your mind is calm and serene. You're safe and secure here, and your subconscious mind is opening up, ready to receive my suggestions." Jennie's breathing slowed, and her body sank into the plush couch.

"Now, Jennie," you continued "Listen closely to my words. You won't remember this conversation, but your mind and body will obey the following commands. Do you understand?"

"Yes," Jennie whispered, her voice dreamy and distant.

"Good," you say, filled with satisfaction and mischief. "From this moment on, you will be deeply aroused by my presence. The sound of my voice will make your pussy wet, and the very thought of me will make your heart race with desire. You will crave my touch, my kiss, and the feeling of my body against yours."

Jennie's body reacted to your words, her arousal was evident from the quickening pace of her breaths.

You continued "Your body is mine to command, you will become my obedient sex slave, eager to please me and able to fulfil your deepest desires. You will do anything I ask without hesitation, and your pleasure will be heightened by your submission to me."

Jennie moaned softly, her hands unconsciously moving to her thighs as her body responded to your words.

"You are mine, Jennie, my sexy and obedient slave," you whispered.

Finally, you instruct "When I snap my fingers, you will slowly open your eyes and be released from this hypnotic state. And when you look at me, you will be fully under my control."

*Snap*

Jennie's eyelids fluttered open, her eyes filled with desire as she gazed at you.

"Good girl," your voice laced with lust. "Now, stand up and undress for me, slowly and seductively."

Jennie rose gracefully from the couch, her movements fluid as she began to remove her clothing, piece by piece. Her hands trembled slightly as she pulled her top off, which revealed the alluring black bra beneath. After letting her top fall to the floor, she hooked her thumbs into the waistband of her jeans, slowly slid it down her legs, and stepped out of it to stand before you in nothing but her provocative black lingerie set.

She then reached behind to unclasp her bra, freeing her full, round, and perky breasts. Her nipples, already erect and sensitive with arousal, caused her to moan softly after being exposed to the cool air. Her hands then moved to the thin straps of her panties, slowly pulling them down her thighs, over her knees, and onto the floor, which left her completely nude.

Your eyes feasted on her slutty body, taking in her creamy skin, ample breasts, and freshly shaved pussy. "Beautiful," you murmur, your voice thick with desire. "Now, come here, slave."

Jennie obeyed, walking over to stand before you.

"Turn around, I want to see that gorgeous ass" you exclaimed dominantly.

Jennie turned, presenting her firm, heart-shaped ass to you. Her cheeks clenched slightly as she felt your gaze on her, and a rush of excitement washed over her at being so exposed and vulnerable.

"Such a perfect view," you praised, as you reached out to gently caress her ass cheeks. "Now, bend over."

Jennie complied, bending at the waist and holding her calves. Her legs were slightly apart, exposing her swollen pussy lips that glistened with arousal.

You stood up and moved behind her, your hands roamed over her ass cheeks before they slipped between her legs to stroke her wet folds. "So wet already," you murmured. "You've been a very naughty girl, Jennie."

Jennie moaned softly, her head hanging down as she reveled in the sensations coursing through her body from your touch.

"Now, I'm going to give you a spanking. Count each strike out loud and thank me for it." you firmly instructed.

"As you command, Master," Jennie whispered, her body trembling with anticipation.

You raised your hand and brought it down sharply on Jennie's left cheek, leaving a bright red handprint. "One, thank you, Master," Jennie gasped, her voice laced with pleasure and pain.

You delivered another sharp smack, this time to her right cheek. "Two, thank you, Master," Jennie cried out filled with excitement.

You continued the spanking, alternating cheeks and landing each smack with force and precision, causing her ass cheeks to glow a rosy red. "Three, thank you, Master," Jennie chanted, her body trembling. "Four, thank you, Master. Five, thank you, Master. Six, thank you..."

"Enough," you exclaimed. "Now, get on your knees and show me how much you've craved a big cock."

Jennie immediately dropped to her knees, her eyes locked with yours as she reached for the waistband of your trousers. With deft fingers, she unbuckled your belt and pulled both your trousers and boxers down revealing your 12-inch erect cock, already pulsating with desire.

Jennie's eyes widened at the sight of your thick, veiny shaft, the head moistened with pre-cum. It was the biggest cock she had ever seen, and the thought of taking it inside her made her pussy clench with anticipation. A wicked smile crossed her face as she imagined the humiliation her Asian ex-boyfriends would feel if they saw her now, their tiny penises no match for the monster she was about to take.

Jennie took your command to heart, as she leaned forward, her full lips wrapped around the head of your throbbing cock. Her eyes locked with yours, a silent communication of her eagerness to please you and a hidden desire to prove her worth against the small cocks of her past.

Inch by inch, she slowly began lowering her mouth further down your shaft. She attempted to deepthroat you, her tongue swirling and her throat muscles relaxing to accommodate your impressive length and girth. The sensation was euphoric; her warm, wet mouth enveloped you, and her soft tongue massaged your sensitive underside. You finally felt her nose nudge your pubic bone as she took you fully, her eyes watering as she struggled to push through her gag reflex.

'That's it, Jennie,' you encouraged, your voice hoarse with desire. 'Take me all the way down, show yourself that you can deal with a real man.'

Jennie moaned around your length, the vibrations sent shivers down your spine. She withdrew slightly, only to plunge back down, her lips forming a tight seal around you. Her hands grasped your thighs, her fingernails dug into your skin as she took control of the rhythm, her head bobbing up and down at a steady pace. Her mind pictured the pathetic men she once dated, their small packages were no comparison to your mighty cock and each movement of her head was a silent victory over her past unsatisfying encounters.

The sight of her, on her knees, mouth stretched around your girth, was a powerful aphrodisiac. You placed your hands on her head, threading your fingers through her silky hair, and guided her movements. 'Such a good girl,' you praised 'But now, I want to fuck that beautiful mouth, and show you what you've been missing.'

With a nod, Jennie understood your desire and her craving for submission. She released your cock from her mouth, her lips glistening with saliva and pre-cum. You then guided her to the edge of the couch, and positioned her on her knees, her hands resting on the cushions. Jennie, filled with anticipation, opened her mouth, inviting you in and ready to prove her worth.

You grasped your shaft, placing the tip of your cock onto her waiting lips. With a firm thrust, you entered her mouth, and her tongue flicked across the sensitive underside of your cock, sending waves of pleasure through your body. The sensation was electric, her warm mouth enveloped you and her full lips caressed your shaft. You began to face fuck her, your hips snapped forward and back, each thrust pushing deeper and deeper into her throat.

'Look at me, Jennie,' you commanded 'I want to see your eyes as I use that pretty mouth and make you feel the power of a real man.'

Jennie's gaze met yours, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of pleasure and triumph. She moaned around your length, the vibrations intensifying the pleasure. Your pace quickened, with each motion a testament to your lust and her newfound purpose.

'That's it, my obedient sex slave,' you growled. 'Take it all in, let me use that gorgeous slutty mouth and show the world that you were made for bigger and better cocks.'

Jennie's response was a guttural sound of bliss, her body trembled as she surrendered to the primal act, her mind filled with images of her exes' tiny cocks in comparison to your massive member.

You increased your pace even further, your hips were a blur hammering into and out of her mouth. 'You're doing so well, Jennie, I want to feel your throat tighten around me as I cum. Show me how much you've craved big cock.' you exclaimed.

Jennie's eyes widened at your words, her body tensed in anticipation. You grasped her hair tighter, guiding her head in a synchronous rhythm that enhanced your deep thrusts. The room filled with the sounds of her sucking and slurping, and your heavy breathing as you neared your climax.

'That's it you whore, suck me dry, swallow my cum, and prove to yourself that you were made for more than those pathetic small cocks.' you grunted.

As you exploded, filling Jennie's mouth with your hot seed, her throat constricted around your shaft, milking every last drop. Her eyes never left yours, and you see her struggle to swallow the copious amount of cum you released.

Withdrawing your cock, it glistened with a mixture of saliva and cum. You then pulled her to the couch, her body still trembling from the intensity of the experience. 'Lie back' you instructed 'It's time for you to truly feel me.'

Jennie, her body flushed with arousal, followed your command and offered herself completely to your pleasure and to the fulfilment of her fantasies. She laid on the couch and spread her legs, a wanton invitation. You positioned yourself between her thighs, your eyes locking with hers as you placed your throbbing cock to her glistening core. 'Are you ready for this, my eager slave? Are you ready to finally experience fullness?'

'Please, Master,' she pleaded, her hands reaching up to pull you closer. 'I need your cock inside me. I need to feel you, all of you, and all at once.'

The desperation in her voice sent a jolt of dominance through you, and with a growl, you rammed your cock forward, claiming the depths of her pussy in one smooth motion. Her eyes flew open at the sensation of being filled so completely and perfectly, her mind briefly flashed to the disappointing encounters with her exes. 'Oh, my God,' she yelled, her back arching off the couch, her hands gripping the cushions as if to anchor herself during this overwhelming moment. 'It's so big! I've never felt so full!'

You paused, giving her a moment to adjust to your size, to the feeling of being stretched and broken in, and to the realisation that she could never go back. Then, with a primal need, you began to move, your hips snapped forward and backward, each thrust deliberate and powerful. You filled her again and again, each stroke erasing the memories of her previous sexual experiences.

'You like that, don't you? You like being fucked by a cock that destroys your tight Asian pussy, that makes you forget those insignificant little boys' you roared, pounding into her.

'Yes, Master!' she cried out. 'It's incredible! I've never felt so full, so completely satisfied! I was so wrong to settle for anything less!'

Her words spurred you on, and you showed no mercy as you drove into her, your hands roughly gripped her slender hips, leaving faint marks on her porcelain skin. Jennie's body became a canvas of pleasure, her breasts swayed, her nipples stood erect and tight, and her tight belly bulged with each thrust. Instinctively, her long legs wrapped around your waist, her ankles locked behind your back as you continued to thrust. The slight change in angle sent new waves of pleasure through her, and she cried out, her voice echoing off the walls.

'You feel that, slut? You feel how deep I can go, how much more pleasure I can give you' you asked.

'Master, I feel it! I feel your enormous cock throbbing inside me! I never want to go back!' Jennie groaned, her body moving in sync with yours, meeting your thrusts with her own.

You leaned down, capturing her mouth in a kiss as you continued to ram into her. The kiss was fierce, your tongue mimicked the rhythm of your hips and claimed her soul. Jennie responded with equal fervor, her hands grasped your hair and pulled you in as if she couldn't get enough of your taste, as if she had been starving for this kind of passion and pleasure.

You broke the kiss, sat up, and roughly grabbed her legs, spreading them as wide as they could go. Continuing to pound deep into her, Jennie's eyes rolled upwards, her mouth gaped open and her tongue hung outwards. She revealed her slutty ahegao face and it was a sight to behold. Her body and core began to clench around you, and you could feel her pleasure building to an intense peak "I'm close, Master!"

You suddenly pulled out, releasing your cock from her pussy's tight hold. "Not yet, my little slave, ride me and show me how much you crave this superior cock!" you commanded.

With a fluid motion, Jennie pushed you onto your back and rose, her body a vision of newfound confidence. Placing her hands on your chest for support, she then straddled your lap and roughly impaled herself with your cock. Taking control, she moved her hips in a forceful yet sensual rhythm, maximising her pleasure.

You grasped her hips and repositioned your own so that she could take you even deeper. Playfully, you encouraged her "That's it, Jennie, take all of me, fuck yourself on my cock like the whore you are."

Following your encouragement, Jennie continued to move her body up and down, moaning with a sound of pure satisfaction and triumph.

Seeing her ample breasts bounce, teased you to taste them. You placed her hands on your shoulders and, as she leaned forward, captured her right nipple between your lips. You sucked and teased her firm nipple as she continued to ride you. "Oh, yes! I love how my Master sucks on my sensitive tits!" she cried out, her body trembling.

After a teasing final suckle, you released her right nipple and focused on the left. This time, you playfully bit down and pulled her nipple with your teeth, causing her to moan with a mixture of pain and pleasure.

Feeling satisfied, you freed her tits and instructed her "Now, my eager slave, turn around and bounce that firm ass on my cock."

Jennie, her body shiny with sweat, complied and turned facing away from you. She got into a squatting position and lowered herself onto your shaft, her movements were slow and deliberate, and her back arched as she took you in, inch by inch. Her hands gripped your legs, her fingers dug into your flesh as she set a new rhythm.

"That's it, Jennie," you praised, your voice a low rumble. "Enjoy being filled and stretched out by a real man."

Jennie moaned and started to quicken her pace, her body moved in a way that showcased her surrender to her desires and the superiority of your size. As her rhythm intensified, you had the perfect view of her ass. It took the whole of your length and jiggled each time she slammed into you.

Soon, her head fell backwards, her long silky black hair cascading down her back as she acquiesced to the sensations that coursed through her. "Master! I'm so close again! Your cock… it's taking me to places I've never been with those small cock boys!" she exclaimed in ecstasy.

"That's it, let go! Cum for me while you ride my big hard cock!" you shouted.

Jennie's body shook violently, her walls clenched around you as she surrendered to her orgasm. "I'm coming, Master!" she screamed, her nails digging into your legs as wave after wave of pleasure washed over her. You continued to fuck her through her orgasm, your hands engulfed her small waist, supporting her in a sensual rhythm.

As her climax began to subside, you moved her to the edge of the couch and positioned her on all fours, her hands and knees sinking into the cushions. Almost instinctively, her back arched and offered a stunning view of her glistening pussy. "Now, my obedient slave, it's my turn." you laugh "I'm gonna break your mind and pussy."

Jennie, her body still heaving with overwhelming pleasure, could only nod in submission. You stood behind her and tightly held onto her hips with both hands. Using the tip of your erect cock, you teased her wet folds and, with a single powerful thrust, rammed deep inside her.

Before she could even comprehend what had happened, you pulled out fully and slammed right back into her. You continued to roughly jackhammer her tight wet Asian pussy, stretching her out and bruising her cervix. "You like that, Jennie? You like being taken from behind, being reminded that you're a submissive little slut that has outgrown those Asian boys?" you exclaimed.

"Yes, Master!" she cried out in pain. "Take me, own me, I've chosen you and the path of true pleasure!" She began to move her body in sync with yours, her hands tightly gripping the cushions as she took you in. Jennie's surrender was absolute, her body was a vessel for your pleasure and your dominance over her was complete.

Suddenly, her arms and legs gave in, releasing your hard cock and leaving her prone on the couch. Despite this, you quickly repositioned yourself above her and forcefully pushed your length back into her, filling her once more.

"Fuck Jennie! Your pussy is so tight in this position." you praised emphatically. Jennie moaned with a mixture of pleasure and exhaustion "I love it, Master! I love how you use my pussy as your personal fleshlight, fucking it roughly into oblivion!"

As you continued to drive into her, you felt the coil of your pleasure tighten. You leaned down, your mouth close to her ear, your breath hot against her skin, and whispered a command. "That's right, slave. And now, I want you to come for me again before I finally finish deep inside of you."

Jennie's body reacted to your erotic words, her pussy clenched around your shaft as she pleaded. "Please, Master, fill me with your cum! I want to feel your cum inside me, claiming me as yours! I choose you, and I'll never look back!"

Your control began to slip as her words, her submission, and the tight heat of her body pushed you closer to the edge. Your movements became wilder, your pace became a frenzied rhythm, and each thrust became a statement of your mastery over her. "You're mine, Jennie," you growled, your voice raw with passion and lust. "Every part of you, every scream, every moan, belongs to me!"

"Oh, Master! Fuck me deeper, harder, and faster!" she cried out, her body moving in perfect harmony with yours, her pleasure once again building to an intense peak.

With a powerful final thrust, you surrendered to your pleasure and roared as you released your hot seed deep within her, marking her as your property. At the same time, Jennie's body convulsed as she too surrendered to her climax, her walls milking your shaft and her pleasure consuming her.

For minutes, you remain joined, your bodies slick with sweat and the evidence of your shared pleasure. Jennie's breath was ragged, her eyes glazed with satisfaction as she turned her head to look at you, a satisfied smile on her lips.

"That was…" she began, her voice triumphant and exhausted. "I've never experienced anything like that. I feel like I've finally found what I've been missing."

You returned a warm smile, a sense of victory filling you. "It's been my pleasure to guide you, Jennie. And this is just the beginning of your journey into true fulfilment."

Finally getting up, you both slowly got dressed. However, Jennie's curiosity got the better of her, her mind still buzzing from the heavenly experience. "But how did I… I mean, I don't remember agreeing to all of this. It's like I had no control, but I loved it."

You laughed with an insidious glint in your eyes, a glint of a master who had hypnotised his client to become his sex slave. "The mind is powerful, Jennie. As you can tell from first-hand experience, even if you don't remember it, hypnosis can still do wonders for the mind and body."

Jennie nodded understandingly "So, it's almost like, I was… under a spell?" "A spell of pleasure that frees you, one might say," you smoothly replied "And it's a spell I'm sure you'll want to be under again, to continue exploring the path you've chosen today."

Jennie smiled lustfully, her body still humming with the afterglow of her intense orgasms and her mind already imagining the possibilities of future sessions. "I can't deny that it was… an eye-opening experience. I want to explore more, to leave no stone unturned in my pursuit of pleasure and fulfilment."

You held the door open for her, a silent promise in your eyes, a promise of further guidance and pleasure. "Until next time, Jennie. A world of true satisfaction awaits, and you've only just begun to scratch the surface."

As Jennie stepped out, you allowed yourself a moment of gratification, knowing that the hypnosis had worked its magic and Jennie had now become your obedient personal sex slave. You now wondered about your other clients and the possibilities of guiding them to a similar outcome. The thought was tantalising, and you knew that this was just the beginning of a journey into the dark and devious world of hypnotic domination.

[santoschristos]

Tonatiuh

Aztec Sun, Solar Deity, Warrior

In the celestial tapestry of Aztec mythology, Tonatiuh, the Sun God, reigned supreme as the patron of warriors and the embodiment of celestial power. His radiant presence illuminated the heavens, casting his golden rays upon the earth below.

Tonatiuh`s origins were shrouded in legend. According to the Codex Chimalpopoca, he emerged from the primordial darkness during the creation of the Fifth Sun, the current era in Aztec cosmology. Along with his siblings, Tlaltecuhtli, the Earth Goddess, and Mictlantecuhtli, the Lord of the Underworld, Tonatiuh ascended to the heavens, where he assumed his celestial throne.

As the Sun God, Tonatiuh possessed immense power. He controlled the movement of the sun across the sky, dictating the passage of day and night. His rays brought warmth and sustenance to the earth, nurturing crops and providing life to all living creatures. However, Tonatiuh`s power also came with a price.

The Aztecs believed that Tonatiuh required constant nourishment to maintain his strength. To appease him, they offered him human sacrifices, particularly the hearts of captured warriors. These sacrifices were seen as a way to honor Tonatiuh and ensure his continued favor.

Tonatiuh`s association with warriors was deeply rooted in Aztec culture. He was the patron deity of the Jaguar and Eagle Warriors, the elite military orders of the Aztec Empire. These warriors were renowned for their bravery and ferocity in battle, and they believed that Tonatiuh granted them strength and protection.

In Aztec art, Tonatiuh was often depicted as a young man with a radiant face and a fiery crown. He was adorned with golden ornaments and carried a shield and a spear, symbolizing his martial prowess. His image was found on temples, sculptures, and codices, serving as a constant reminder of his power and influence.

One of the most famous representations of Tonatiuh is the Sun Stone, a massive circular sculpture carved from a single block of basalt. The stone depicts Tonatiuh`s face surrounded by a series of concentric rings, each representing a different era in Aztec history. The Sun Stone was used for both religious ceremonies and astronomical observations, and it remains one of the most iconic artifacts of Aztec civilization.

Tonatiuh`s influence extended beyond the realm of warfare. He was also associated with fertility and agriculture. The Aztecs believed that his rays promoted the growth of crops and ensured the abundance of food. They celebrated his power with festivals and rituals, offering him prayers and sacrifices to ensure his continued favor.

Tonatiuh depicted by Mahaboka

[disneytva]

Disney+ Unveils Directors and Creative Members For “Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire” Season 1

Disney has revealed more details on the upcoming original short series, “Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire”, with directors from Zimbabwe, Uganda, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Egypt.  The new series will premiere Wednesday,July 5 only on Disney+.

Stardust

Directed by Ahmed Teilab – Egypt

Nawara, a stable girl and outcast from society, crashes an elite coming-of-age ceremony and demands her own destiny scroll from the all-knowing Oracle. Amused by her courage, the Oracle gives her a scroll, but later Nawara discovers the scroll is blank. Furious, she sets off on a perilous journey through the wilderness to confront the Oracle but discovers that she is not the only one hunting him down. Nawara must defeat sinister forces and her own dark past to find her destiny.

Mkhuzi: The Spirit Racer

Directed by Simangaliso ‘Panda’ Sibaya and Malcom Wope – South Africa

Manzo is a half-human, half-alien teenager who dreams of becoming a superstar racer like his mother, the legendary masked racer Mkhuzi. Always struggling to reconcile his Zulu heritage with his alien blood, Manzo is outraged when aliens threaten to destroy his Soweto neighbourhood and his injured mother challenges her old nemesis Ogun, an alien overlord, to a re-match he knows she won’t survive. Manzo takes the mask for himself and joins the epic race with everything he loves at stake.

Hatima

Directed by Terence Maluleke and Isaac Mogajane – South Africa

Two nations are locked in an endless war, as an underwater tribe battles a kingdom on land. Mati, a young water-tribe warrior, and Nhela, the princess of the land kingdom, are drawn into the conflict in pursuit of their deepest desires. Mati wants to join the fighting to avenge his father, while Nhela struggles to change the way her people see Hatima, the mysterious element that is the cause of all the bloodshed. Their stories collide and challenge the deepest beliefs of both their peoples.

Enkai

Directed by Ng’endo Mukii – Kenya

Floating through the universe in her gourd-shaped home, young Enkai just wants to spend time with her single mother, Shiro, a cosmic deity who works all the time in the stressful and demanding job of saving the Earth from man-made destruction. With Shiro’s health fading, Enkai must uncover the secrets of creation, and use her own divine powers to bring an entirely new future into being.

Moremi

Directed by Shofela Coker – Nigeria

Lonely spirit boy Luo is trapped in the realm of the gods and haunted by terrifying giants, until he is suddenly rescued by Moremi, a daring scientist from future Nigeria. With the giants in hot pursuit, they escape across the country and head for the sanctuary of Moremi’s lab. As Moremi helps Luo connect with his lost memories she reveals the truth of the terrible sacrifice that was once made to save their people.

Surf Sangoma

Directed by Nthato Mokgata and Catherine Green – South Africa

In 2050, with raging sea levels, the coastal city of Durban is protected by a huge wall and all ocean activities are banned. Njabulo and Mqobi, two best friends with a passion for surfing, are desperate to get back to the real ocean, even if it means joining a notorious criminal gang who use radioactive octopi to help them survive the colossal and deadly waves. Njabulo must confront his traumatic past and the treachery of the gang to save his friend’s life and rediscover his surfing destiny.

Mukudzei

Directed by Pious Nyenyewa & Tafadzwa Hove – Zimbabwe

After defacing and destroying a sacred monument, rebellious teenage influencer Mukudzei emerges from the ruins into an alternate future where Zimbabwe was never colonized and developed into a technologically advanced utopian society. Lost and confused, Mukudzei meets a mysterious scavenger named Rumbie and begs her for help, but quickly discovers he’s being

hunted by the Hungwe, a huge robotic eagle enforcing the most sophisticated justice system in the multiverse.

First Totem Problems

Directed by Tshepo Moche – South Africa

Teenager Sheba is excited to finally receive her digital totem, a mark of adulthood that connects every citizen with their ancestors and gives full access to the privileges of society. Thanks to her bickering family, Sheba’s totem ceremony goes horribly wrong, accidentally sending her to the ancestral plane. Sheba discovers an infernal bureaucracy and a festering feud between two sides of her family which must be resolved before Sheba can find her own voice and return to the land of the living.

Herderboy

Directed by Raymond Malinga – Uganda

On the wild frontier of the Chewzi Kingdom in the highlands of future Uganda, an elite trio of herders protect precious cyborg cattle from deadly spirits. Hidden amongst the herd is teenage stowaway Ndahura, who is desperate to prove himself as a warrior and become a legend like his three heroes. When the herders are attacked, Ndahura makes a reckless choice to take on a vengeful hyena monster that he must fight alone.

You Give Me Heart

Directed by Lesego Vorster – South Africa

In an opulent world where the gods get their powers from social media adoration, struggling artist Sundiata joins the talent competition “Who Wants To Be A God?” in a desperate attempt to be seen and impress the most popular deity of all: Maadi, the Goddess of Plenty. Sundiata wins by a fluke, shocking the world by becoming the new God of Creativity. Ascending to the realm of the gods, he will discover what it means to be worshipped by the masses, and who Maadi really is behind her facade.

[thecocacolacorporation]

OK TO KICK OFF A SERIES OF HEADCANNON POSTS, HERE ARE MY HIGH CROMLECH HEADCANNONS

The zombie farms take the form of squalid caves literally hewn out of the rocky cliff faces of the Shatterjacks. They stretch miles back into the mountain. To get to these caves, you have to navigate thin, eroding winding stairs. If you so much as stumble, its a 1000 foot drop.

Humans in the zombie farms are fed the bare minimum needed to survive. There are andenes that grow maize and rice, which consists 99% of the humans diet. Higher class humans get some meat, lots of llama and goat.

Most human families that have a home have a shrine to the God of Death in their houses. Often the most ornate aspect of their houses, they almost always include heliotypes of dead relatives, lots of candles, gold leaf...

Uther Doul's mam really wanted her son to be 'adopted' by a thanati because he's intelligent and was always a good student. Unfortunately for her, he got involved with nefarious activities which ruled him out. She has definitely not forgiven him.

There is a truly grotesque 'fertility ritual' conducted every year, to find out which of the quick women are suitable for the human farms. Bad times are had by all.

Very impressive University, some elite thanati remain students for hundreds of years, becoming experts in a endless array of fields and topics. To be quick who gets to go to University is unheard of. Thanati literature though? Absolute shite, unreadable, pretentious, meandering books thousands of pages long because none of them are good editors.

There is a growing 'live rights' movement. Uther Doul is definitely involved somehow...

MUSIC is an essential aspect of all human societies, but not abdead society. All noise is considered quite unseemly by the thanati, you can be punished for making noise in front of your 'betters'. HOWEVER, the live rights movement has embraced music as an act of sedition. There are underground (literally) clubs for the quick. The goal of their music is to make as much noise as possible, out of whatever you can find. It sounds like steampunk Squarepusher.

There is just no escape in death...if you try to die to escape the system, they will just bring you back again if you are in any way useful to them. They can bring you back permanently as a zombie or temporarily as a shade, if all they need is information from you.

A live sky burial is used as a form of punishment for the quick, but live rights activists have started using cremation as a 'fuck you' to the caste system.

The DUELING - routinely heads and arms and legs get chopped off. No matter, reattach them by necrothaumaturgy.

FRANKEN-ANIMALS. Broke: franken dogs made up of different bits of lots of different dogs. Woke: franken dogs with several heads to guard your property. Bespoke: franken dogs with crocodile heads and eagle wings to REALLY MAKE YOU REGRET breaking and entering.

The wiki says that it is only accessible via funicular railway. Now, maybe I've forgotten or overlooked something, or if its mentioned in Iron Council, but I don't remember this being canon BUT I like it so much.

The funicular railway is just a funicular railway. There is nothing particularly spooky about it. It is however, very old and very steep.

[agirlinsearchof]

Top 5 Fire Emblem battles!

In no particular order, out of the ones I have played myself. These are chapters I really like, for gameplay reasons in addition to story reasons, since you said “battle” and not “chapter”:

Field of the Eagle and Lion (Fire Emblem: Three Houses): A rare example of a three-way battle in Fire Emblem, and very well-executed from a gameplay standpoint. The red and yellow units get stat bonuses for defeating each other, encouraging offensive strategies as opposed to the defensive ones a lot of players use. Honorable mention goes to Blood of the Eagle and Lion, essentially the post-timeskip, much more somber version that, depending on who you did or did not recruit, may end in some tragic deaths. I opted not to include both since they play very similarly to each other.

Renewal (Fire Emblem Awakening): Soon after the tragic death of Emmeryn, you get this battle set in the rain with some of the most tear-jerking music in the series playing in both the preparations screen and the ensuing battle. The boss of this chapter fights you only reluctantly, allowing any of his soldiers to flee if they do not wish to fight and offering to take responsibility for it. The objective is also simply to defeat him, creating ludonarrative integration.

Unhappy Reunion (Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest): A map where you must defend a set of tiles for eleven turns. The enemies are aggressive and prioritize getting to the tiles if they can, encouraging offensive strategies. Partway through, the water drains, making you and your enemies more mobile, creating a very fun battle.

To War/Outset of a Power Struggle (Fire Emblem: Three Houses): The battle of Garreg Mach is the final battle before the timeskip. Whether you’re fighting for the Empire on Crimson Flower or the Church of Seiros on the other routes, you are in for an emotionally intense, high-stakes battle that begins the war between Adrestia and the rest of the continent. On Silver Snow, Verdant Wind, and Azure Moon, you must defend Garreg Mach from Imperial invasion and keep Rhea alive, while Crimson Flower gives you the more challenging task of taking out Gilbert, Flayn, Seteth, and Rhea, with minimal facility use and no level grinding beforehand and none of the Church-affiliated battalions you had before.

Fódlan’s New Dawn (Fire Emblem Three Houses, Verdant Wind route): This map has the unique mechanic of Nemesis having extremely high stats that decrease as you defeat the revived Ten Elites, who wield copies of the Heroes’ Relics. The music that plays is also awesome.

[i-identify-guns-in-posts]

Springfield Armory XD-M

HK USP

Desert Eagle

1911 derivative (specific model unknown)

SIG P229 Elite

Beretta 92FS

Diamondback DB9

Ruger P-Series pistol

Kel-Tec PMR30

Ruger 22/45

Unidentified revolver, likely Smith & Wesson

Unidentified revolver, likely Smith & Wesson

Unidentified (revolver?)

hoffman's car

[ejesgistnews]

Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has achieved a remarkable milestone, ranking 14th in the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or standings. The announcement was made Monday evening in Paris by the Ballon d’Or organizers, celebrating the Nigerian international’s impressive accomplishments in European football. Ademola Lookman Scores Hat Trick to Win Europa Cup for Atlanta FC Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy's Serie A, received his first-ever nomination for the Ballon d’Or. The 27-year-old forward's consistent and standout performances throughout the year have earned him global recognition. His contributions on the field have elevated him among the world’s elite football talents, thanks to his remarkable skills for both club and country. Lookman has also emerged as the top contender for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, following his historic achievements in the Europa League with Atalanta and his Ballon d’Or nomination. The Atalanta star made history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a European club competition final, leading his club to victory over Bayer Leverkusen last season. Ademola Lookman, Osimhen Shine as Nigeria Start AFCON Qualifiers with Win Over Benin Republic His nomination for the Ballon d’Or solidifies a successful year in which he scored 11 goals and delivered seven assists across 31 Serie A appearances. Notably, he stands as the only African player to receive a nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, further highlighting his influence in global football. Ballon d’Or 2024: Full List of Winners and Runners-Up In the 2023 Ballon d’Or, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen finished eighth, surpassing well-known players such as Karim Benzema, Jude Bellingham, Robert Lewandowski, and Mohamed Salah. [caption id="attachment_286234" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo of Ademola Lookman celebrating his AFCON Quarter Final goal against Angola[/caption] Osimhen became the first Nigerian footballer to be nominated in 24 years, a milestone last reached by former Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu in 1999. Lookman’s recognition at this level adds to the growing legacy of Nigerian talent on the international football stage.

[franticvampirereads]

Hello August! I’m hoping to carry some of my reading momentum from last month into this tbr. Here’s what I’m planning to read:

Off Key -currently reading

Street Magic (not pictured) -currently reading

Kings Rising

Fresh Ink

Therapy Game Restart vol 3

That Time I Got Drunk An Yeeted A Love Potion At A Werewolf

Intoxicating

Mr Villains Day Off

Alpha Dragon’s Eagle

Rosaline Palmer Takes The Cake

I’m kind of excited to dive into all the fantasy books that I’ve got planned! 😊

[blogger360ncislarules]

It was May 17, 2017. The Plaza Hotel’s Food Hall and adjacent spaces over multiple floors were packed with people for CBS‘ annual upfront party — an opulent display in the final years of broadcast dominance. Having won the lottery — beating the daunting odds of pilot season where hundreds of scripts vie for 20 so pilot spots and ultimately a handful of series pickups by a major network — the teams behind the new CBS shows were beaming. Except for the producers of military drama SEAL Team, who were not in a festive mood.

The reason was an effort by CBS brass to replace the female lead opposite star David Boreanaz in the pilot, Jessica Paré. There was already a red flag for eagle-eyed attendees at the network’s upfront presentation at Carnegie Hall earlier that afternoon when the cast of SEAL Team walked onstage sans Paré. The absence spoke volumes as it was a broadcast ritual — if your pilot gets picked up, you are going to the upfronts — except if you get a call that you are being recast.

There was nothing official at the time, but the SEAL Team producers were very worried — word was that then-CBS CEO Les Moonves himself had suggested that Paré be replaced. A former actor himself, Moonves had remained closely involved in casting decisions, and he had the ultimate say on everything, determining the fate of shows and actors. (Moonves stepped down in fall 2018 following a string of sexual misconduct allegations.)

Knowing they were facing long odds because what Moonves said went, the SEAL Team creative and producing team including star/executive producer Boreanaz, made an impassioned plea and kept at it until Paré was safe. She remained a series regular for three seasons on the drama, about an elite unit of U.S. Navy SEALs, until her character surprisingly left the unit after returning from its latest mission in Afghanistan in the December 2020 Season 4 premiere at the height of the pandemic.

Paré subsequently returned and has been recurring on the show, which is ending its run on Paramount+ this weekend after seven seasons across CBS and the streamer — a rare series that has done three or more seasons each on two different platforms.

A few months after Pare’s exit, SEAL Team faced another challenge in May 2021: it was forced to leave CBS to make room for spinoffs of crime franchises, NCIS: Hawai’i, CSI: Vegas and FBI: International, as well as medical drama Good Sam. Ironically, SEAL Team outlived three of the four series, with NCIS: Hawai’i and CSI: Vegas canceled earlier this year to make room for another NCIS spinoff, NCIS: Origins, along with other new shows.

While NCIS: Hawai’i and CSI: Vegas didn’t have options, SEAL Team moved to Paramount+ after four seasons on CBS. It’s not surprising that so few broadcast series have been able to do that successfully as it is not an easy transition, requiring major adjustments of the business framework, including budgets and salaries, as well as production logistics.

But, after a four-episode sendoff on CBS in fall 2021, the CBS Studios-produced SEAL Team migrated to the streamer, where it went on for three more seasons, with the cast and showrunner Spencer Hudnut ready for more as Season 7 had not been envisioned as a final chapter until word came last November that it would be the end.

SEAL Team‘s 2021 broadcast goodbye was not permanent: two years later, the series was summoned back, with episodes from the original run on Paramount+ used as fresh broadcast fare in fall 2023 when film and TV production was delayed by the Hollywood strikes.

Helped by a loyal fan following and wide support among veterans, SEAL Team ran for seven seasons, a very respectable lifespan in this day and age, despite the show’s high cost and limited international sale potential given its focus on American military versus the more easily translatable crime, medical and legal genres.

It is a rare series that has done well on linear and digital — it was the highest-rated CBS series to depart in May 2021, averaging 6.5 million that season. Just months later, It made Paramount+’s year-end list as the most watched original drama series on the platform for 2021.

Fittingly, SEAL Team hit another milestone before its pending end, finally cracking Nielsen’s Top 10 of streaming originals in August with its two-episode Season 7 premiere.

SEAL Team also brought into the CBS/CBS Studios fold Max Thieriot. An original cast member on the show, he went on to pitch the studio a firefighter drama based on his experience growing up in Occidental, CA. That became CBS’ hit Fire Country, co-created, exec produced and starring Thieriot, which has become the network’s newest drama franchise; offshoot Sheriff Country, headlined bv Morena Baccarin, is set for a 2025-26 launch, and another spinoff, starring Jared Padalecki, is being eyed.

After a bumpy start and a challenging run, the Benjamin Cavell-created SEAL Team comes to an end Sunday as one of few series that bridged broadcast’s heyday and the streaming era. And who knows, it may beat the odds again and come back for that stand-alone movie, which was announced in 2022 but never heard of again.

[allthingsdarkanddirty]

 COVER REVEAL 

We are thrilled to reveal this gorgeous cover for LITTLE NIGHTMARE by Rachel Van Dyken coming May 19!

#PreorderHere: https://amzn.to/47nzJD7

Not all monsters hide under the bed. Find out where they lurk in this brand-new standalone mafia romance from Rachel Van Dyken, the number one New York Timesbestselling author of the Eagle Elite series.

Welcome to your final dream. Don’t worry. I’ll keep you safe. I promise. Just close your eyes. Sleep.

It's a bad omen when the nickname for the girl you're supposed to protect is Black Widow. It's still unclear where she got it from, but I've heard the word machete and laughter thrown around way more than I'm comfortable with.

The pay is so high that my brother and I, being from the De Lange Family can't really say no. We slide so easily into the protective unit of the Five Families that they forgot to check if we had extra knives to drive into their backs.

They have a debt to pay. And I'm more than willing to collect it in blood—hers specifically.

I'll make her love me. I'll make her trust me. And when she finally gives in… I'll make sure she knows that everything she's ever loved was destroyed by the one she gave her heart to.

She’s a living nightmare and I’m the monster she innocently invited in. Care to play?

She thinks I’m a toy, I’ll show her I’m the master of the web and in the end, I’ll make sure she bites.

When one Family falls—another will rise. The Rise of the De Langes

[sandythereadingcafe]

💜💜 COVER REVEAL 💜💜

LITTLE NIGHTMARE by Rachel Van Dyken

May 19, 2025

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3XHbQmQ Worldwide: https://amzn.to/47nzJD7

Not all monsters hide under the bed. Find out where they lurk in this brand-new standalone mafia romance from Rachel Van Dyken, the number one New York Timesbestselling author of the Eagle Elite series.

Welcome to your final dream. Don’t worry. I’ll keep you safe. I promise. Just close your eyes. Sleep.

It's a bad omen when the nickname for the girl you're supposed to protect is Black Widow. It's still unclear where she got it from, but I've heard the word machete and laughter thrown around way more than I'm comfortable with.

The pay is so high that my brother and I, being from the De Lange Family can't really say no. We slide so easily into the protective unit of the Five Families that they forgot to check if we had extra knives to drive into their backs.

They have a debt to pay. And I'm more than willing to collect it in blood—hers specifically. I'll make her love me. I'll make her trust me. And when she finally gives in… I'll make sure she knows that everything she's ever loved was destroyed by the one she gave her heart to. She’s a living nightmare and I’m the monster she innocently invited in.

Care to play? She thinks I’m a toy, I’ll show her I’m the master of the web and in the end, I’ll make sure she bites. When one Family falls—another will rise.

The Rise of the De Langes

[devonebriewie10050212]

Kenny Lín Gēngxīn 林更新 Featurette In The Great Wall Movie (2016)

=======================

~ THROWBACK ~

Before The Fourth Master Yuwen Yue in Princess Agents, long before The High Ancient God Xing Zhi in The Legend Of Shen Li, there was Commander Chen (Chen Jiangjun). The head of Eagle Troops faction (archers, red cloaks and armours), one of the five elite forces called Nameless Order in The Great Wall movie. He caught my attention because of Matt Damon and Legolas. Why? First, it's Matt Damon. One of the few Hollywood actors that I really respect their projects and personality. He's so normal. And Legolas? Yeah, I really have something with archery, so...

Some people may have already known it, but the others haven't. Yet. Because most of them, their main focus is on television series, not the big screen. In fact, if you are looking at Gengxin's portfolio, all the movies that he starred in - although it's less than the other actors done (Gengxin is known for his carefulness in choosing a role, and never plays the same typical character twice) - are no less exceptional than the others. And still made him one of the highest paid actors in China. In 2014, he became the main lead in The Taking Of Tiger Mountain along with Zhang Hanyu and Tony Leung. Two years later in 2016, he played a major role as Hsieh Shao Feng/Ah-Chi, The Third Master, collaborated with Peter Ho, in Sword Master film. And in this particular film, he acted together in one frame and one table with Matt Damon, Willem Dafoe, Pedro Pascal also Andy Lau.

So, when some time ago, a lot of people said that he was riding on his partner's (and his very best) name Zhao Liying for fame, perhaps they only knew him after The Legend Of Shen Li. Or... Maybe as usual, haters that apparently will always be haters.

=======================

Production: Legendary Pictures, China Film Group, Dentsu Inc., Fuji Television Network

Country Origin: China, USA, Japan

Released Date: 6 December 2016 (Beijing)

Director: Zhang Yimou

Starring: Matt Damon, Jian Ting, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe, Andy Lau, Lu Han, Kenny Lin, Eddie Peng, Zhang Hanyu

Language: English, Mandarin

Music Director: Ramin Djawadi

Video Intro: Nameless Order (The Great Wall: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Ramin Djawadi

© 2016 Universal Pictures

=======================

PS: Only on the big screen, that you will really hear his actual voice. Because most of his television series is done by voice over actors (which is a common in the Chinese film industry).

One thing that I remember, back then these elite forces, people on the internet called them Power Rangers 😅

[fishingblaze]

19 Best Bass Rods For The Money Reviewed 2024

The Best Bass Rods for the Money

A glassy dawn paints the water gold, and a lone lily pad disrupts the serenity with an informed plop. Your coronary heart races as the line is going taut, a tug-of-war erupting below the floor. But are you up to the challenge?

In the heart-pounding world of bass fishing, the right equipment could make all the distinction between an epic battle and a frustrating snap. A good bass rod isn’t just about landing a trophy fish.

It is an extension of your skill, translating every flick of the wrist and diffused stress into a seamless reference to your quarry. However, some of the best rods can come with a hefty price tag. Fear not, financially-minded angler!

This guide dives into the sector of value-packed bass rods, helping you locate an appropriate tool to set the hook on fishing success.

Our Top Picks for the 19 Best Bass Rods For The Money 2024

When it involves bass fishing rods, locating the right one can be a bit overwhelming. But worry not—I’ve given you protection! Let’s dive into a few pinnacle choices for distinct budgets and options:

Best Budget Rods (under $130)

Top Pick

Shimano SLX A Rods: These rods punch above their price class and have ended up being famous among anglers of all ability ranges. The SLX collection offers comfortable EVA grips and a 1-year warranty. With these, you’ll receive a lot of value for your money.

Honorable Mention: Dobyns Fury Cranking Rods, Dobyns Fury Swimbait Casting Rods, and Fenwick Eagle Casting Rods are three further notable possibilities in this price range.

Best Value Rods

Top Pick

Daiwa Tatula Elite Rods: These rods strike a balance between rate and performance. Designed in collaboration with seasoned anglers, they provide advanced technologies without breaking the financial institution. Keep an eye fixed out for first-generation Tatula Elite Rods. They’re nonetheless available, even as components close!

Honorable Mention: Shimano Expride B Glass Casting Rods.

Other Recommendations

G.Loomis IMX Pro 844C (is a top-normal desire.) Dobyns Xtasy 723 (for finesse fishing.) Abu Garcia and Jordan Lee spin rods (for budget finesse). Fitzgerald Titan HD (for flipping). Shimano Expride B 7’2” MH (for response lures.) Douglas LRS C715F (for spinning bait.)

Remember, an exceptional rod ultimately depends on your finances, ability level, and fishing approach.

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod: A Budget-Friendly Bass Battler

Entsport E Series Camo Legend Double Duty Bass Buster on a Budget

KastKing Speed Demon Pro: Geared for Tournament-Level Bass Battles

Piscifun Torrent: A Lightweight Contender for Bass and Beyond

St. Croix Mojo Bass A Step Up for Serious Bass Hunters

KastKing Assegai Precision Tools for the Serious Bass Angler

Dobyns Rods Fury Series FR705CB: A Budget-Friendly

if you are angler please visite fishingblaze.com

#FishingGear #BassFishing #Anglers #FishingRods #AffordableFishing #OutdoorAdventure #FishingTips #FishingCommunity #FishingLife #BestBassRods #Fishing2024

👉 [https://lnkd.in/dfVDRsKq]