#Thanks for letting me play in the sandbox OP!

[hawkstar5]

I was possessed by the ghost of Tasha to make the tags a reality:

i think its funny that picard show got the tasha hologram pose wrong

[refinedbuffoonery]

Looking Through A Window (5)

macriley married undercover au

masterlist.

Admittedly, this is kind of a filler/transition chapter, but I have big plans for this story, and I’m really excited for y’all to read what happens next. Expect an update every weekend this month! 

*****

The nightmare sinks its claws deeper as Mac tries to dislodge it. He knows it’s a dream, and Mac tosses and turns as he grapples for control of his mind. 

The images in his mind persist. He's back in the Sandbox, but this time Bozer is with him, and Bozer's dying from a bullet wound before Mac can carry him to safety. Mac's had the dream a million times, and it always ends the same way. 

I know you won’t let me die, Bozer says. But seconds later, his eyes turn glassy when his soul leaves his body. 

Mac’s throat closes, cutting off his oxygen supply, and for a moment he thinks he’s going to follow Bozer into the afterlife. 

It’s just a dream. He’s just lucid enough to remind himself of that. Wake up, Mac commands his body. Wake up. Wake up. Wake up. Wake up. 

The nightmare won’t let him. 

Suddenly a different set of claws grip Mac’s shoulders, and the voice ordering him to wake up isn’t his own. He tries to jerk away, but the claws dig in. 

Not claws, Mac realizes. Hands. Slender ones, with long fingers. Nails biting into his skin through his worn t-shirt. 

He knows those hands. 

“Wake up,” Riley hisses, and it’s enough to finally yank Mac from his dream. Mac’s eyes snap open, automatically scanning his surroundings. The bedroom is pitch black, but Mac can just make out Riley kneeling above him, her tired face twisted in concern. Her hands are on Mac’s shoulders, but not pinning him to the bed like he first thought. Her touch is light, and her thumbs make gentle sweeps across his collarbones. Mac’s own hands find Riley’s forearms, but he doesn’t push her away, nor does she lay back down. “You okay?” she asks. 

Mac tries to play it off. “Yeah, bad dream. That’s all.” It’s a bit of an exaggeration, considering that he’s drenched in sweat and the final and most disturbing seconds of the dream are lingering longer than the rest. He knows it’s not real, but Mac can’t quite shake the sick feeling. 

Riley exhales, and Mac finds himself mirroring her breathing automatically. Sliding a hand down to her wrist, he presses two fingers into her skin, feeling the steady thrum of her pulse. It’s faster than he expects. 

Almost as if in explanation, Riley says, “You scared the shit out of the dog, not to mention me.” 

Mac winces, feeling guilty. “Sorry.”

“You don’t need to apologize.” Slowly, Riley releases him and lays back down, leaving plenty of space between them. Mac misses her touch the instant she lets go. “Want to talk about it?” 

That throat-closing feeling returns as Mac contemplates what to tell her. Part of him wants to share, but a bigger part hesitates when the explanation dies on his tongue. “Not really,” he finally says. 

“Okay.” Riley says, pausing. “You’re wide awake right now, aren’t you?” 

This, at least, he can admit easily. “Yep.” 

There’s another long pause, filled only with the soft sound of their exhales. Just when he’s about to tell Riley to stop worrying about him and go back to sleep, she says, “Come here.” 

Mac stills. That weird tension still lingers between him and Riley, causing awkward silences and stilted conversations. So this…this is unexpected. 

He shouldn't. He really shouldn't. But, her voice is soft and reassuring, and who is he to turn down a free opportunity to cuddle with the woman he loves? Even if it might be a mistake. 

As soon as Mac scoots across the bed, Riley pulls him into her side, guiding his head to rest on her non-injured shoulder. Riley’s side of the bed isn’t nearly as warm as his, but her body is soft and Mac likes how they fit together. Mac can’t help but sigh in contentment as Riley lightly scratches his scalp, and he lets an arm settle over her waist. They’ve fallen asleep together plenty of times over the years, but she’s never held him. Not like this. His heart pounds at the intimacy of it all. 

But as Mac slowly starts to relax, the pulse in his ear doesn’t slow like it should. Because it’s not his heartbeat he’s hearing. 

It’s hers.

Does that mean…?

“So,” Riley says, breaking the silence. “It’s later.” 

The realization feels like a slap to the face. That’s why her heart is beating so fast. Not because of their close proximity, but because it’s later and there’s still that unresolved thing hanging between them. Mac’s fleeting hope that Riley’s racing pulse meant something else is nothing more than a fantasy in his head. 

Swallowing his disappointment, Mac starts, “Riley, I really am sorry—” She cuts him off. 

“Stop. You don’t need to apologize again. I forgave you the first time.” Her fingers sweep behind his ear, making him shiver slightly. “It’s my turn.” Riley takes a deep breath. “I’m sorry for not listening to you. Like, really listening. Your concerns are legit, and I shouldn’t have brushed them aside and followed Matty blindly.” 

Oh. 

“I hate this situation just as much as you do, and I’m sorry if I made you feel otherwise.” Her voice catches slightly. “Also, I lied to you this morning, in the car. I knew I needed to apologize. I just didn’t know how to say it yet.” 

Pointedly ignoring the intimacy of the gesture, Mac brushes his thumb over her ribs in a way he hopes is reassuring. “It’s okay.” 

Riley tenses beneath him, and Mac freezes instantly. “It’s not, but thanks for saying that anyway,” she murmurs, relaxing again. Her fingers resume their path through his hair, catching on the occasional tangle. 

Mac doesn’t know how to reassure her that it really is okay. So instead he confesses, “Sometimes I hate this job.” 

She’s quiet for a few long seconds before responding. “Me too.” 

It’s weird voicing it aloud. They’re all painfully aware of the downsides to the job, but rarely does anyone directly mention it. Maybe Riley is on a similar page as him after all. 

Mac questions, “Are we doing the right thing? Playing along and letting innocent people get hurt just so we can take down the whole organization at once?” He needs to know her answer…needs confirmation that this whole op isn’t just one massive wrong choice. 

“I think the good we do outweighs the bad,” Riley says after a few moments. “At least that’s what I tell myself so I can sleep at night.” She shifts, and for a brief, exhilarating moment, their hips press together before she pushes her knee uncomfortably into his thigh. Mac squirms, trying and failing to find a good position, ultimately taking a chance by slotting his leg between hers. Riley inhales sharply, but she doesn’t push him away. Mac tries not to read into it. Lying like this is intimate and intense and yet so easy. So right.

Mac pushes the heady feeling aside, ignoring the way it crackles in the background, threatening to consume him. They need to have this conversation, without distraction. Even welcome ones. 

“Riley, we helped them kill people,” he says, and Riley’s hand stills in his hair. 

“We can’t save everyone, Mac." 

The thrumming in his body stops so quickly Riley might as well have dumped a bucket of ice water on him. 

His heart cracks as she softly repeats, "We just can't." Like maybe she's breaking her own heart too by saying it. 

He wants to kiss her chest—to press his lips to her heart in an attempt to soothe the ache there. 

Mac understands all too well. It’s not the countless lives they have saved that stick with him, but the few they couldn’t. Zoe, the researcher who drowned in the Arctic to save her students. Jill, who fell victim to one of Murdoc’s murderous games. Charlie, who sacrificed himself so Mac wouldn’t have to choose between saving his friend and saving hundreds of innocent people. Lasky, the nuclear plant engineer who was just doing his job. Mac’s father. His aunt. Jack. 

Riley clears her throat. "So, yeah. I think we are doing the right thing. It just sucks.” 

Mac agrees, even though he can hardly admit it to himself. But there’s still one thing he doesn’t understand. “I don’t get how Matty seemed so okay with all of this,” he says. 

“Come on, Mac. You know Matty hates this just as much as we do. She wouldn’t ask us to play along if she didn’t think it was necessary.” Riley’s fingers resume their steady, sweeping path through his hair, and Mac takes comfort in the gesture. 

He sighs. “You sound like Jack.” 

“I learned from the best. Don’t tell him I said that,” Riley warns, but Mac can hear the smile in her voice. 

He tilts his face toward the ceiling, imagining Jack looking down at them from whatever afterlife he found himself in. “You hear that, old man? She admitted to learning something from you.” 

Riley snorts, giving Mac’s hair a sharp tug. “Oh shut up.” She means it to be playful, but it sends a bolt of desire through his body. 

It’s too much, with her hand in his hair and their bodies intertwined, and the intimacy may very well burn Mac alive. Every nerve in his body goes on high alert, and his grip on Riley’s rib cage tightens automatically. 

“Sleep,” she murmurs, clearly mistaking the tension in his body as coming from somewhere—anywhere—else. Riley is one of the smartest, most perceptive people Mac knows, and yet she has no idea how he feels about her. Maybe that’s a good thing, he reasons. It’s easier that way. Less complicated. 

Although full-on front-to-front cuddling isn’t not complicated. 

It doesn't take long for the gentle pressure of Riley's fingers to win out, and Mac melts into her touch, letting his body grow heavy. Sleep beckons, and his eyelids flutter shut of their own accord as Riley wraps her free arm around his back, pulling him closer. Again, he thinks she feels like safety. 

In his last moments of consciousness, Mac mumbles, “I like this,” before drifting back to sleep.

*****

For the first time, Riley is already out of bed when Mac wakes, and he’s positive it has something to do with the fact that he’s still on her side of the bed. 

Cuddling with her was a mistake. Even if it led to the best sleep he’s had in a long time. 

Burying his face in Riley’s pillow, Mac takes a deep breath. It smells like her. He hears the front door open and close, and then Riley’s muffled voice fills the apartment. Mac can’t quite pick up what she’s saying, but he thinks she’s on the phone rather than talking to Harley. 

Suddenly getting up seems like a daunting task. 

Not caring if it makes him a coward, Mac stays in bed, taking the opportunity to study the bedroom decor. This is day nine of the op, and before now Mac never bothered to appreciate the work someone put into setting up the safe house. It’s too modern and minimalist for his taste, but he has to admit it looks nice. The bedroom walls are a soft light gray, with a handful of paintings of different sizes and framed photos of him, Riley, and Harley scattered throughout. More of the photos Bozer took are in the hallway, but Mac’s never given those more than a cursory glance. 

Across from the bed sits the single, expensive-looking dresser, with overstuffed drawers that don’t quite shut all the way. One of Riley’s drawers is completely open, and the t-shirt she wore to bed last night hangs haphazardly over the edge. 

Mac’s eyes catch on the photo sitting on top of the dresser, beside the plant he keeps forgetting to water. It’s one of the wedding photos, and it’s the only photo Mac has really paid attention to, since he stares at it every day while getting dressed. The photo is of Riley and him slow dancing, and she’s looking at him like he hung the moon. And he’s looking at her the exact same way. 

More than anything, Mac wishes it was real. 

The bedroom door creaks open, and Mac cranes his neck to see Harley’s fluffy head peek through. She doesn’t enter. Instead, Harley watches him cautiously, almost like she wasn’t expecting him to be awake and is now unsure what to do. 

Mac pats the mattress. “It’s okay. Come on.” When she doesn’t move, he adds, “I’m sorry I scared you last night.” His apology must be enough, because Harley jumps on the bed with him. She stands between his outstretched legs as Mac rakes his hands through her fur, scratching her butt the way she likes. “How about I get you a new toy to make up for it?” he asks. Tail wagging, Harley licks his face in approval, and Mac laughs. “I’ll take that as a yes.” 

Riley raises her voice—she’s complaining about something, although Mac still can’t determine what—and both Mac and Harley turn their attention to the sound. 

Harley looks back at him, and Mac starts to think that he wasn’t far off the other day when he noticed Harley playing protector. He smiles softly. “Go check on her.” 

Harley jumps off the bed immediately, surprising Mac when she glances back at him on her way out the door. 

Still smiling, Mac gets up to start his day.

By the time he emerges from the bedroom, Riley is playing fetch with Harley in the living room while she’s on the phone. Surprised the call has lasted this long, Mac raises his brow, silently asking who she’s talking to, and Riley holds up a finger. One second. 

While he’s waiting, Mac wanders into the kitchen in search of breakfast. 

Riley’s next throw ricochets off the wall, and the tennis ball hits Mac’s thigh. “What do you mean he’s not in the database?” she shrieks. “Bozer, practically every criminal in the world is in that database.” 

Mac freezes midway through unwrapping a muffin. 

Riley pinches her nose. “Then run the sketch through the DMV database. The guy who tailed me has to exist somewhere.” 

He swallows. “Tailed?” 

“Hang on, Boze. Mac just walked in.” Exasperated, Riley moves her phone away from her face. “I took Harley for a walk while you were still asleep, and some guy tailed me. Don’t worry, I lost him long before returning to the apartment.” 

Mac bristles. Riley had been in danger, and he was asleep. Why didn’t she tell him where she was going? He tries not to think about all the bad things that could’ve happened. “You think this guy is part of the Patriots?” 

Shrugging, Riley says, “That makes the most sense. But it’s hard to know for sure when we don’t have personnel records.” 

That’s just one of many problems with this op—no official list of known members of the Patriots. Mac and Riley have no choice but to learn about people the old-fashioned way. 

Pinning her phone between her cheek and her shoulder, Riley retrieves the tennis ball from under the couch, her voice muffled as she asks, “Got anything, Boze?” A few seconds later, she groans, but Mac can’t tell whether it’s because of Bozer’s answer or the amount of hair now stuck to the visibly soggy tennis ball in her hands. He makes a mental note to vacuum again. “Thanks for trying,” she says before hanging up. 

Treading carefully, Mac asks, “Well?” He doesn’t need to be a genius to know that she’s still rattled, no matter how much she tries to downplay it. 

“His name is Peter Morrison, and he has three speeding tickets. That’s it.” Still holding the tennis ball, Riley’s shoulders slump as she sits on the arm of the couch. Confused why she stopped playing, Harley stands between Riley’s legs and whines, nosing Riley’s hand in an attempt to get her to throw the ball again. 

When Riley doesn’t oblige her, Mac asks, “Are you okay?” 

“Yeah. Why wouldn’t I be?” Riley says, but her voice is tight and she bristles when he moves closer. He knows she’s lying—they’ve both been lying a lot recently—but what Mac doesn’t understand is why. He knows why he’s lying, but why does Riley still feel the need to hide how she’s feeling from him? 

It’s like the intimacy of last night never happened. 

Mac takes the wet, hairy tennis ball from her hands and throws it for Harley. “Do you want a hug or help kicking someone’s ass?” The question earns him a small smile, one that makes Mac’s heart flutter in his chest. 

“I was thinking more along the lines of punching someone in the face, but I suppose we can kick them too,” she quips. Mac laughs, and the corners of Riley’s eyes crinkle as her smile widens. 

“Sounds like a plan.” Harley brings the ball back and drops it at Mac’s feet. “Last throw,” he tells her, knowing full well it won’t be. Turning his attention back to Riley, he asks, “How’s your shoulder?”

Absent-mindedly, Riley’s fingers trace the outline of a bruise peeking out from beneath her tank top. “It hurts. You grabbed it in your sleep last night, and I almost screamed.” 

Mac grimaces. “Sorry.” He wants to ask about last night and make sure they’re okay, but the words refuse to form. “I’m going to call Conrad and make him explain, okay?” 

“Okay.” Riley nods. For a second, it seems like she wants to say something more, but she ultimately doesn’t. Honoring her implicit request for space, Mac briefly squeezes her arm as he walks away. The gesture is a promise: I’m here.

*****

“This is unacceptable,” Mac growls at Ethan, later that day. After giving Conrad an earful over the phone, apparently Mac made a big enough fuss to warrant a visit from the leader of the Patriots himself. They meet in public—neutral ground—at a park not unlike the one across the street from Mac and Riley’s apartment. It feels wrong to use the term safe house, since it’s not as safe as they thought. 

“I’m sorry you feel that way, James,” Ethan placates. “It’s simply standard business procedure. I’m sure you researched us before formally offering your services.” 

Mac barely stops himself from making a face. Oh they researched the Patriots, all right. “Of course we did.” He really should do a better job of holding his snark at bay, but Mac lets it tint his words anyway. “But we didn’t invade individual members’ privacy or threaten anyone’s personal safety.” 

“My employee did not and would not have hurt your wife. She was never in danger, I can assure you.” 

“And how was she supposed to know that?” He’s borderline yelling, but Mac is too pissed to care. The more Ethan tries to convince him the situation is okay, the more Mac wishes they were closer to the playground so he could strangle Ethan with the chain from the swings. He snarls, “Explain that to me.” 

Ethan, it seems, is at a rare loss for words. Mac waits, forcing the other man to fill the silence. “I suppose she wouldn’t have,” Ethan finally admits, although he shows no sign of backing down. 

Mac stands. “Don’t let this happen again.” He starts to walk away, content with having the last word, but Mac stops dead in his tracks when Ethan calls after him. 

“If you won’t comply with the way we do things, then I guess we’ll just have to find someone else.” 

Mac spins on his heel. “That’s bullshit,” he spits. “You need us. You won’t find anyone better, at least not that you can afford, and we both know it. Your organization is small potatoes right now, but with our support, the Patriots could join the big leagues. So it’s up to you to decide whether you’re content with throwing your money at a pipe dream or if you want to actually accomplish something.” Ethan is taller than him, but Mac manages to look down at him anyway—something he learned from Matty. “The choice is yours. Let me know when you’ve made it.” 

Without waiting for a response, Mac shoves his hands in his pockets and walks away, praying he didn’t just ruin the whole op.

.

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[thedistantdusk]

I sometimes feel like when people complain about JKR its sexist. I don’t see male authors getting attacked like her. Where do u stand on that?

((Tumblr posted this before I was done. Now I’m trying again! My apologies.))

Oof, OP. Oof oof oof.

This one... this one is a doozy. Someone with a bit more sense would probably run screaming from the question. However, because I am a fool, I will attempt to answer this — under the disclaimer that I’m not speaking for anyone but myself. This is purely my opinion and you are welcome to disregard.

With that in mind, let’s traipse through this minefield, shall we?

Ok. So. To start, few authors — female or otherwise — have created fandoms as large as Harry Potter. As someone who has followed this fandom from the get-go and aged with the series, I do speak (somewhat) from a place of authority regarding how it evolved. 

Prior to Harry Potter, we simply didn’t have access to fandom in the same ways. There has never been a series that created such mass appeal. You could certainly argue this was because the series grew with access to the internet, but I really feel like there’s more to it. JKR created an immersive world so powerful that we’re still talking about it today. She is supremely talented; no one is denying that.

Considering this information, I struggle with how we’d even begin compare JKR to an author (male or otherwise) who lacks the same clout. The Harry Potter septology remains the bestselling book series — ever. Ever. It sold roughly 150 million more copies than the Goosebumps series, which is still in second place. (And keep in mind that Goosebumps is basically a series of single “one-shot” type books packaged as a complete series. We are naturally going to expect more cohesion/consistency in a series that tells various parts of the same story.)

More popularity means more readers. More readers mean more analysis. More analysis means more critique. In college, I was privileged to be able to take courses in fictional fantasy. We critiqued everything from Gilgamesh to His Dark Materials to LotR — and yes, Harry Potter was included as well.

So… to suggest that JKR is only critiqued because she’s a successful woman is — imo — a bit shortsighted. Similarly, claiming that “no one attacks maaaale authors like they attack JKR” is like saying “no one attacks Six Flags like they attack Disney World.” One of those things simply lacks the same volume/audience.

Even if you disagree with me on that point, though, I’d like to point out that The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown (a male author) is still the UK’s bestselling single novel of all time. And guess what? The feedback on that book is far from spectacular. There’s literally an entire Wikipedia page devoted simply to outlining the various criticisms of that book. When you delve into actual critique, things get even more extreme. Many, many mainstream publications have said things about Dan Brown that they’d never say to JKR. I’ll leave it to you to decide why that might be.

However, as someone on Discord recently mentioned, if I met JKR, I wouldn’t start off by pointing out the various plot holes in the series. I wouldn’t ask her why food was an issue in DH, or why Lily didn’t apparate away with Harry, or how 15-month-old toddler Harry remained immobile in a basket overnight, or why the concept of poverty exists in a society with transfiguration and duplication. (And if you think I’m sexist or “tearing JKR to shreds” for daring to even identify these inconsistencies, I… personally don’t think we’re going to see eye-to-eye on much, my friend.)

Still… if I met JKR, I would thank her profusely for the gift she gave the world. I would tell her she’s inspired my lifelong love of writing and that she’s saved me from more darkness than she’ll ever know. I would express how honored I am that I’m allowed to play in her sandbox.

And you know why? Because finding flaws in a text and enjoying it aren’t mutually exclusive. This notion that we should only offer praise — even of something we love — flies in the face of how literary analysis works. Academia requires you to critically read/analyze texts while evaluating their weaknesses and strengths.

As someone who is feminist, I frankly fail to see how a critique of the Harry Potter series connects to the fact that JK Rowling is a woman. I’ve been around long enough to see a lot of authors get dragged through the proverbial mud. Solely in that regard? She is not unique.

That being said, there is the lingering question of if JKR is treated unfairly in other ways because she happens to be female. But that -- my friends -- is a hard limit of what I’m comfortable speaking about. 

[tryan-a-bex]

I didn’t write for many many years (like 30) and then I discovered fanfiction while recovering from long covid and. Well. Between resting enough to get the creative juices flowing again and the wonderful kind talented people in the Sandman fandom, I started writing again! Small things, for fun. Fanfiction, so Neil did most of the work already (thank you for letting us play in your sandbox, Neil!). There are quite a few of us, actually, who hadn’t written for years and were inspired by The Sandman on Netflix, so you (op) wouldn’t even have to be embarrassed about being out of practice. Whether it’s with us or not, I hope you find your joy again!

(And also I love beta reading and cheering people on so hit me up once you have a first draft and I’ll tell you what I love about it, offer suggestions if you want them, and share it around once it’s finished!)

Hi Niel,

You’ve been my favorite author since I read Neverwhere in 7th grade. Your stories still playback in my mind even now. Back then, I used to love writing, myself. I’d make time for it every day, and used it as a crucial outlet until my parents found my journals and humiliated me with them in a really traumatic shit-hitting-fan situation. Despite still feeling the urge to, I haven’t written once since then. Every time I try, the words scatter and the cloud of thought I used to be able to spin into threads of a story, vanishes. I miss writing so much. How does one recover from this? It’s been almost 20 years, is it too late? Is it even possible?

What your parents did was awful. It's hard enough writing with imaginary parents looking over your shoulders and judging you. I'd suggest trying to write small things for fun, and finding safe and nice people to share them with. See if the joy returns.

[smoothdogsgirl]

Finding Peace

Title: Finding Peace

Characters: Steve McGarrett, Grace Williams, Catherine Rollins

Words: 1,520

Summary: Series Finale Fix Steve tries to find peace and gets some perspective from an unexpected source.

Happy Birthday @wereleopard58

This story is not beta'd any mistakes are mine.

These characters don't belong to me, I'm playing in someone else's sandbox. No money is being made from this.

DO NOT POST ON OTHER SITES.

I will cross-post this to my ff.net and AO3 accounts.

Steve continued to hold Catherine’s hand as the plane taxied from the terminal and then takes off into the sky. When the flight reaches cruising altitude he lets go of her hand and looks out the window, watching the island of Oahu and his home for the last ten years disappear in the clouds. Steve zones out watching the clouds until a flight attendant approaches offering complimentary beverages. He accepts a small bottle of water and nods his head in thanks.

He looks over and notes that Catherine has on a pair of headphones and is diligently working on her laptop. After a couple of minutes, she stops typing and glances up at Steve with a smile on her face pulling off her headphones. 

“So I was thinking when we land at LAX we could grab a bite to eat and discuss where we go from here,” Catherine states still smiling.

Steve frowns, “Cath I’m not going with you. I appreciate all of your help…” He sighs running a hand down his tired and weary face, “but it was never my intention to join you. I’m physically and emotionally tired, I need to find myself again. Running ops with you won’t accomplish that.”

Catherine stares at him for a moment, “I was under the impression this was what you wanted.”

A look of confusion crosses his face, “until an hour ago I hadn’t seen or spoken with you in months. What would give you that idea?”

She swallows hard, “it was something that Cole said when he called me.”

“What?”

“Cole said you told him I was the one that got away,” Catherines says in a tone asking him to contradict her statement.

Steve groaned, “I did say that to Cole...but I also left a lot unsaid.” he takes a deep breath and releases it slowly, “there was a point in my life where I would have done just about anything to be with you. However, you left me and I had to move on. It took some time and I’ve done that now. I can’t and won’t go back.”

Catherine swallowed hard and wiped away an errant tear,  “...Ok, if going our separate ways is what you want. We part at LAX.”

“Cath, I’m not trying to hurt you but that is how it needs to be,” Steve advised. 

She nods her head in understanding and puts her headphones back on refocusing on her laptop. 

The remainder of their flight to LAX is spent in awkward silence. When the plane parks at the terminal both grab their gear and disembark into the terminal. On the concourse, they say a brief good-bye before Catherine turns and disappears in a sea of travelers. 

Steve is unsure of what to do next, he had made no plans beyond leaving Hawaii. Picking up his duffel bag he swings it over his shoulder and makes his way over to the same-day ticket counter in the main terminal. Once there he looks at the available flights leaving LAX that day, after looking at what flights are leaving for several minutes he makes a snap decision and walks to the counter purchasing a ticket. Take it in hand he makes his way back over to security passing through he then proceeds to the gate where he waits for his flight to be called.

Six long hours later he lands at his destination. He catches a cab into the city and gets dropped off at a Hyatt. He gets a room, showers and falls into an exhausted sleep. 

The next morning Steve started exploring the city visiting some local landmarks and trying the local delicacies. One day roughly a week after arriving he made his way to one of the local college campuses, having heard it had a nice walking trail. He spent the day walking the trail enjoying the sunshine and nature.  

As he nears the campus, he hears a young voice calling for him. “Uncle Steve...Uncle Steve!”

Turning around and only has seconds to brace himself as Grace runs up to him and flinging herself into his arms. He spins her around for a moment before setting her back on the ground. He steps back to get a good look at her, “you look good Gracie, Rutgers seems to agree with you.”

Still grinning she moves a loose strand of hair behind her ear, “thanks uncle Steve. Are you here by yourself? Danno didn’t mention that you were coming.”

“That’s because it wasn’t a planned trip. I was at LAX looking for a flight and saw that one was departing for Newark and just bought a ticket…” with a chuckle he adds, “it’s kinda Danno’s fault. When we were talking a few weeks ago, he said I should come to Jersey for a vacation.”

Grace rolls her eyes, “you live on a Hawaiian island and come to Jersey for a vacation?” She shakes her head in dismay, “you got it all wrong uncle, Steve.”

“Are you done with classes for the day?” 

“Yeah, I was going to go for a run on the trail, but…” she pauses for dramatic effect. “Since you’re here you can take this poor college student for dinner at a local diner.”

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

“So uncle Steve what’s going on?” Grace asks after they’ve placed their order with the waitress.

“What do you mean?” Steve asks trying to avoid her question.

“I talk with Adam a couple of times a week ever since he and Kono split up. He’s told me what’s been going on recently. Not to mention I spoke with Danno the day after you left and he stated you’ve been weary and were looking to find some inner peace.”

Steves shoulders slump and his Adam’s apple bobs as he swallows hard. After a few seconds, he raises his head and looks Grace in the eye, “you seem pretty well informed already.”

Grace reaches across the table and squeezes his forearm, however, before she can say anything the waitress returns placing two burgers, fries, and milkshakes on the table. For a few minutes, they each enjoy their food.

Grace dips a fry into her chocolate shake before and then stuffs it in her mouth with a small moan of appreciation, “so good.”

Steve smiles shaking his head at her antics.

“So talk to me uncle Steve, why did you really leave the island?”

“I’ll tell you what I told Danno when I got to the island ten years ago I hit the ground running and I never stopped. That a long time. I’m tired and I want to find some inner peace.”

“So has being in Newark New Jersey of all places helped you find even a little bit of that peace you’re searching for?”

“Honestly until today, no” he sighs. 

Grace dunks a few more fries into her shake, “so what changed today?”

Steve smiles at her, “running into you.”

She chuckles and shakes her head, “so we’ve established I’m the only good thing to come of you coming to Jersey...now based on that. What are the odds if you travel elsewhere that you’d have better results?”

Steve just looks at her unsure of how to respond to her question.

“...That’s what I thought” Grace responds. “I’m glad that seeing me has helped you. But why me?”

“I love you Gracie and I’ve missed you… you also remind me of Danno.” Steve tells her truthfully.

“I’ve missed you too uncle Steve...if you miss Danno why haven’t you gone back?”

“It’s not that simple,” Steve replied rubbing the back of his neck.

“Can I say what I think without you getting mad at me?” She asks pushing her empty plate aside.”

“Sure Gracie”

“Having watched you and Danno together for a good number of years, I think you love my dad.”

“Of course I love Danno…”

Grace cuts Steve off, “NO! That’s not what I mean. I think you’re in love with my dad.”

Steve sits back in his chair dumbstruck, not sure how to respond.

“I also know you haven’t said anything to him. Now, I think you should tell him because I’m ninety-nine percent sure he feels the same.” She told him honestly.

“You really think Danno feels the same?” Steve asked wringing his hands.

“YES!” Grace exclaims.

Steve shakes his head at her exuberance, he then pulls out his wallet and places money on the table to cover their meal and a tip.

As they get up to leave he turns to Grace, “are you coming to the island for Spring Break?”

“Uncle Steve, is this your way of asking me to go back home with you, hold your hand while you tell Danno how you feel?” Grace asking him in a teasing tone.

As they step out of the diner Steve throws his arm over her shoulder pulling her in close and kissing her on the forehead, “yeah Gracie it is.”

Staying in his embrace she tilts her head up, “as long as you buy the ticket...cause ya know poor college student and all. Yeah, I’ll fly home with you.”

“Thanks, Gracie.”

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

Tags:

@wereleopard58​ 

@marvelismylifffe​

@chelsea072498​

@esoltis280​ 

[apimains]

Sid meiers civilization beyond earth 1.1.0

#Sid meiers civilization beyond earth 1.1.0 windows 10#

Considered by Epic as a cross between Minecraft and Left 4 Dead, Fortnite has up to four players cooperating on various missions on randomly-generated maps to collect resources, build fortifications around defensive objectives that are meant to help fight the storm and protect survivors, and construct weapons and traps to engage in combat with waves of these creatures that attempt to destroy the objectives. The game was released as a paid early access title for Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on July 25, 2017, with a full free-to-play release expected in 2018.įortnite is set in contemporary Earth, where the sudden appearance of a worldwide storm causes 98% of the world's population to disappear, and zombie-like creatures rise to attack the remainder. Widescreen Wheel Included in the Screenshots.įortnite is a co-op sandbox survival video game developed by Epic Games and People Can Fly, the former also publishing the game. I have added the intro video I used as a separate download. I hope you enjoy and as always Happy Gaming. Head over to the following thread and let me know or drop me a private message. Wheel.zip - Optional 16:9 Main Menu wheel pack including Neon Options Very Special Thanks to the following Additions:Īrtwork1.zip - Optional Neon Light Top Logos for the Main Menu (31 Systems/Wheels Available Thus Far)Īrtwork3.zip - Optional Neon Light Blue Top Logos Overlay for the Main Menu (Strobe) (31 Systems/Wheels Available Thus Far) HyperControl.flv - Optional Background Video for HyperControl.įront End Images.zip Optional 16:9 Exit and Favourites Menu Front End Media Pack.įade _Default.zip Optional _Default Fade pack for RocketLauncher. Retro Cafe Developer Kit 1.0 - A developers kit so you can add more systems not included in this package.

#Sid meiers civilization beyond earth 1.1.0 windows 10#

Hyper Control_2.0.zip - Optional HyperControl Addon - Requires Windows 10 and Rainmeter Installed. Retro Cafe 1.1.0.zip - Contains everything needed for a basic package. Theme, Settings, Special Artwork and Letters.Īrtwork2.zip - Optional System Pictures, Information and/or Games Available. Note: HyperControl requires the latest version of Rainmeter to be installed thus requiring Windows 10. This is something I have been tinkering with and I am happy overall with it so far so I thought I should release it for you all to use if you want.Īll you need to get started is the Retro Cafe 1.1.0.zip. Everything else is Optional Extras.

[junker-town]

Secret Base reviews: AND1 Streetball: The Video Game

It got mediocre reviews when it launched in 2006. They were wrong.

As a kid without cable, I missed out on a lot of great TV, including ESPN’s late-night show about AND1, the streetball pro circuit. My friends wouldn’t stop talking to me about it, and I couldn’t blame them. Electrifying moves and dazzling dunks? That sounded amazing, and not being able to watch made the show seem even more magical.

So when I saw the AND1 video game I knew I had to get it. I mowed two lawns to earn enough money to buy the game. As soon as I started playing I was hooked. It was the first time I had been exposed to the wonderful world of authentic streetball. I had played the NBA Street and NBA Ballers games before, but that was different. The NBA wasn’t involved in this game.

Why am I talking about the AND1 video game and not Street Hoops, the game that came out before it? Because I never played Street Hoops as a kid.

I recently looked up the official reviews of the AND1 video game, and they were ... unpleasant. IGN gave it a 4.1/10, saying “This is easily one of the weakest basketball games to have come out in a while, primarily thanks to its idiotic control scheme”. Gamespot gave it a 4.7, saying “You’ll probably get more entertainment value out of the latest And1 Mixtape DVD than you will out of the And1 Streetball game.”

I’m shocked that it was received with such negativity, because for me the game is a low key classic. So I’m going to explain why AND1 is one of my favorite sports games of all time and why the reviewers completely missed the point.

The intro was incredible

The intro video sets the perfect tone. This game wasn’t about out-scoring your opponent. Fuck that. AND1 was about finding out the coolest combination of moves you could pull off. How many ankles could you break? How many self-alley oops you can pull off until your friend gives up and asks to play something else?

Yes there was a scoreboard, but the real winner was the person that did the coolest shit. If you ever referenced the scoreboard, you are an undercover cop. Congrats!

The controls were set up for creativity

AND1 had a gameplay dilemma.

Streetballers have so many special and specific basketball moves. How were they going to fit all these dribble moves onto a controller? What AND1 did was add a shit-ton of dribbling animations and separated them into levels of moves. How you moved the left and right thumbsticks in combination with the right trigger would directly affect what move you did. Sure it was hard to follow what combination did what, but it gave you the opportunity to put your favorite ones to memory and develop your own personal arsenal of moves.

What makes this even more fascinating was basketball video games’ complicated relationship with the right analog stick at the time. It’s all figured out now, but back then that shit was a work in progress. In Street Hoops, the right thumbstick was for directional passing. In some NBA Live and March Madness games the right thumbstick was used for dribble moves. NBA Street Vol. 2 used it as some sort of off-ball player control mechanism. Basically, the buttons were the main focus and the right thumbstick was a “what other cool shit can we add?” control.

Street Hoops Control Scheme

AND1 had to choose between designating the streetball moves to the buttons or the thumbstick. They chose both. I’m going to try to explain the system the best way that I can.

Welcome to “I Ball” controls.

I Ball control is a three level tier system that separates each move by how difficult they are to pull off. A simple Level 1 move was considered a setup for the higher level moves but you could button mash (square or X) all day if you wanted to.

Level 2 moves were considered the showboat moves, which were controlled with the right + left analog stick and Level 3 moves were the anklebreakers (right + left analog stick + R1/R), which were the most difficult to pull off but it ended with an automatic anklebreaker. The tricky part about this is that you had to fill up the anklebreaker meter, which could only happen if the defender was close enough to you.

In addition to anklebreaker moves, you also had these things called ‘Breakdown Moves’ which on the surface, look like knockoff GameBreaker moves. You were only able to use these after you had successfully pulled off enough Level 1 and Level 2 moves. AND1 had a few basic Breakdown Moves templates, but you could also create your own custom moves by piling together two showboat moves, a finish and a celebration/taunt at the end.

This made pulling off your own creations even more satisfying. While ‘Breakdown Moves’ seem unstoppable at first, you were able to block them with the right timing and personnel.

What this gameplay gave us was the solid foundation for a streetball game that had more wrinkles than the game originally seems to have.

Let’s take a look at the main game mode, shall we?

Story Mode: Welcome to the AND1 Mixtape Tour

AND 1’s story mode isn’t complicated and actually sounds pretty realistic. You create a-baller and start from the bottom and work your way into the AND1 circuit. See the guy in the image at the top of this article? That’s my character K-Time, who goes by the name ‘Sir Dunks-A-Lot’.

As you complete different achievements and whatnot, you would be able to unlock signature moves, and clothing as well as improve your attributes. What’s dope is that the player you created would be available in other game modes. When you finish the story mode, you would end up with a fully-maxed out player. In theory, if you beat the story mode five times you had the opportunity of creating a full squad of 100 overall streetballers.

I only got to three before my disk froze, but I still think it’s possible. An underrated part about the tour mode is that the levels would come with cutscenes. They didn’t have to do this, but they did it for us.

The Mixtape Tour has two game types. There’s ‘Open run’ which is like the main story mode, but they also pepper us with some side games which includes some halfcourt basketball.

Beyond just trying to win, each level had side objectives within them that you would be asked to attain. Sometimes the game would ask you to block 2 shots, or win by 7. This way you had something else to aim for in a game where scoring and defense aren’t the most exciting elements in the game.

Hitting those goals would net you some in-game cash, and you can use your earnings to improve your player’s attributes to a point where they become an absolute god on the court. So yeah, you could just play to win and be boring or you could grind the game and become the greatest streetballer to ever do it. Your choice.

Bonus stuff

The bonus features in this game were so freaking sick to me growing up. They featured a behind the scenes look at the game and the league. You could go to specific streetballers and they’d have their own little mixtape of their best highlights.

Just another thing to show you that the moves in the game were real. THIS IS WHAT THEY DID MAN AND IT WAS LIT.

Other things I like

What makes this game stand out even more over time is the fact that this is the only AND1 video game we got. There weren’t any sequels to dilute the gameplay, storyline or brand. The game is what we got, and it’s honestly good enough to make me break out the old XBOX and run it back for this review. Every sport should have sandbox style options and this level of customization. Not just because it makes my job with Fumble Dimension easier, but because it makes us keep wanting to play the game years after we beat the story mode and unlock everything.

AND1 gave us a deep deck of dribble moves, the option to create your own streetballer, the abundance of court options and much more. For a 2006 sports game, this shit had a ton of replay value, which is the highest compliment I have for a sports game. Especially now when sports games think new content is just adjusting the ratings for a player ever-so-slightly and putting it in a random card pack.

Was this game perfect? Not even close. Defense was an absolute chore: all you could do was button mash the steal button and hope to not get your ankles broken. Since out of bounds and fouls didn’t exist sometimes you would find yourself shooting layups from behind the backboard due to some animation bug. Off ball movement wasn’t perfect and… you see how weird I sound critiquing a fun-as-hell streetball game? Of course the game wasn’t going to be perfect. Once you start taking it on its own terms, you start to appreciate how all out Black Ops Entertainment, Gameloft and Ubisoft went with this.

The game was flawed, but the flaws didn’t stop the game from being fun. And that’s what matters.

9

[imagininghim]

Chapter 29

A/N: Let me know if you want to be tagged!

Warnings: Swearing and violence.

Where she went Masterlist

For anyone reading Where she went

It’s been a year and a few months since Jax and the boys were taken to prison.

Jax and I wrote while he was in prison but nothing compared to having him by my side.

Today was the day he was coming home and I couldn’t wait to have him back in my arms.

I stayed at the house with Abel for a little while but Gemma and I would switch on and off every now and then.

Most of the time, I spent at the club helping Opie and Lyla prepare for their wedding that was happening… Well, it’s happening today.

Like I said, it’s been a year and a few months since I last wrote.

I was going to be maid of honor and Jax, of course, was best man.

It was going to be like old times again.

“Hey (Y/N)! Are you almost ready?” Opie yelled into Jax’s dorm as I smiled and snuck up behind him.

“Yeah, Ope I’m ready!” Opie almost came out of his skin when he flipped around and become face to face with me.

“Holy fuck! You almost gave me a heart attack on my wedding day. I laughed at me before interloping our arms together.

“Oooh, did I scare the big bad biker?” I said in a teasing voice. “Suck it up, princess.” Opie chuckled at me as we made our way down the hall.

“Is everyone ready?” Opie questioned. The club members and different workers nodded their heads. “Alright, let’s get going!” Everyone cheered while we made our way to the bikes.

I climbed onto Jax’s bike, deciding to ride it to the prison.

“Look at us,” Opie began as I glanced over at him. “Riding together, just like old times.” I smiled at him before starting up the bike.

“You’re right, just like old times.” Just like Jax would I took off first while Opie and the rest of the members followed behind.

In that sense, I was free.

Riding down that open road, the wind through my hair and my boys behind me.  

All my stress, my worry’s and my problems were long gone.

A new beginning was on the rise.

But so was a tragic ending.

We parked our bikes and waited for the boys to come out. As soon as we see the boys coming down the walk way, we immediately started cheering. The gates opened and out walked our family.

“Jax!” I said running towards him and jumping straight into his arms.

“Miss me, darlin’?” I smiled and pulled his lips onto mine. After a few minutes of our heated make-out session, I pulled away and leaned into his ear.

“You have no idea,” I whispered, nipping at his ear lobe. Jax groaned and put me down as Opie tossed him his cut while I made my way over to the other boys, welcoming them home.

“Let’s get the hell out of here!” Clay yelled we all cheered in agreement.

I climbed back onto Jax’s bike as he did the same.

“Did you ride my bike here?” I nodded while he smirked. “That’s my girl.” Jax started up his bike.

We rode back to Charming until we reached the club.

Croweaters and old ladies filled the lot, cheering us in. Yet, there was one face that wasn’t cheering us in but just more giving me a dirty look.

Tara Knowles.

Tara had the baby after but had yet to name it. I wasn’t allowed near her or the baby without Jax.

“I got this, you stand by,” Jax said taking off his helmet as I nodded my head.

“Don’t worry,” I looked up to see Happy laying his hand on my shoulder. “He belongs to you and not even she can take that away from you.

“Thanks, Hap.” Jax made his way over to us. “How’d it go?” Jax just sighed.

“I’m working on it but right now, I want to be working on you,” I smirked at him, turning back to Hap and handed him my helmet.

“Then, take me, I’m yours.” Jax chuckled leaning down and picking me up.

Well, let’s just say; that’s what he did.

He took me. He did not only take my body but he took my soul. He took my everything.

And he gave me his everything.

But I knew this ending… And it wasn’t going to be a happily ever after.

“Lyla, you look breathtaking.” She turned and smiled at me.

“Thank you so much, (Y/N).” I nodded and walked behind her while Piney walked next to her.

“You ready?” She looked back at me as I nodded.

“Yes.” The song ‘Here comes the bride’ rang out through the forest while we made our way down. Cheers and catcalls were called out once we reached the ceremony. I let go of her train when she handed me her flowers.

The ceremony began but I couldn’t help but stare over at Jax.

He was the true love of my life. He was the person who I wanted to spend the rest of my life. I would take a bullet for him or jump in front of a train. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him.

Because he was the love of my life.

He was my everything.

Flashback:

“(Y/N)! Come play in the sandbox with us!” I giggled and ran over to my two best friends. Jax and Harry but we all called him Opie.

“Let’s play house!” Jax called out as Opie and I nodded. “I can be the daddy and (Y/N) can be the mommy and Opie can be the son!” We all nodded in agreement. We played for hours until one of the bigger kids came over to us.

“Look at the little baby’s playing in the sandbox.” Jax, Opie and I just continued playing. The older kid grew angrier when he kicked sand in my face. Jax and Opie being the over-protective boys they were stood up and faced the kid.

“Hey! You can’t do that!” Jax exclaimed.

“Yeah? And what are you going to do about it?” The kid said coming face to face with Jax. Opie kneeled back down to me and proceeded to help me get the sand out of my eyes.

“This!” Jax said leaning up and punching the kid in the face. The kid stumbled back before running away crying. Jax then made his way back over to me with a sympathetic smile. “Are you okay (Y/N)?” He questioned softly as I quickly nodded my head and pulled him to my lips.

“Ew! Cooties!” Opie yelled out causing Jax and me to pull away. He snickered at us before running in the other direction.

In the distance, Gemma and John sat on a park bench watching the encounter.

“They’re going to end up married someday,” Gemma whispered to John as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders and chuckled.

“I think so.”

Present:

Who knew she would be right?

Happy and I finished our slow dance as he hugged me goodbye. Some of the boys had to go on club business while the rest of us stayed at the reception.

I danced with some of the old ladies and croweaters while the boys did their work. I even got a slow dance with Opie on his special day.

Eventually, I saw my prince charming make his way towards me.

“Hey beautiful,” I smiled as I made my way towards him. “May I have this dance?” I smiled and nodded at him.

“Well, of course.” I pulled Jax onto the dance floor. We began to slow dance, his arms around my waist and mine were wrapped around his neck.

“I love you,” I whispered into his ear as I laid my head on his shoulder. “I love this.”

“I love you too,” Jax whispered back. Pulling away slightly, he pressed his lips to mine. I kissed him back before he pulled back quickly. “Meet me on the roof of Samcro. In twenty, okay?” I nodded as Jax let go of me and made his way to Opie. They hugged with big grins on their faces.

I shrugged my shoulders before making my way over to one of the prospects.

“I’ve had a few drinks and I can’t drive. Will you drive me to the clubhouse?” They nodded their heads and took me to Samcro.

Once we reached the club, I hopped off his bike and thanked him. He watched me go into the club before driving off.

I walked into the club and over to the latter. I made my way up to see the roof was full of candles. My mouth dropped in awe as I saw Jax back on to me.

“Jax…” He turned with a smile on his face.

“I know I can’t offer you the world or even a safe version of it but I can offer you my world. I love you. I always have. I hated myself when I let you go the first time but I promise I won’t let you go this time. You have given me a reason to keep going and for that, I am forever thankful for that. Please make me the happiest man on the earth and marry me.” I had tears streaming down my face, one after another. I got down onto my knees with Jax.

“Yes, of course. I’ll marry you.” Jax’s face lit up like a kid on Christmas morning.

“Seriously?!” He questioned in shock.

“Yes, of course!” I giggled, he leaned down and slid the ring down onto my finger.

“I love you (Y/N),” Jax said pulling me into a kiss.

“And I love you, Jax,” I said kissing him back.

Like I said before,

Who knew she would be right?

Tag list:

@homicidalteenagedream @crystalbaby12 @dashesoflipstick @i-am-the-luna @divisionlunar @kacilove26 @mac5323 @cakemonster1113 @woahhhhaily @when-darkness-falls @make-things-beautiful2 @alittlerosebud @scottish-kid

[lonedailydoodle]

Daily Doodle 207/365 - July 26, 2017

So much money..

I wish I could have some, but I guess a lot of people would feel the same way

Today started calm yet again. I woke up to throw like 50 Earths at the sun in Universe Sandbox then had some fun playing with some ships in Space Engineers

My mom had left to give my brother some vaccines, which I’m guessing I’ve been in need of some since I’m not that healthy. Been dry coughing again but this time my chest hurts every time I cough

Anyways, once mom returned, I had to get ready since she planned on making this joint account thing with me just in case anything bad were to happen to her.. which I hope doesn’t but yeah..

We had to do this in this “co-op” bank which was super tiny but very close to my house. I tell you, that building could easily fit twice inside my house! Maybe even 3 times!

Anyways, I was nervous cuz I had to do a lot of signing and my signature varies a lot of the time. I’m not consistent, which worries me a lot.. I gotta practice it some more on paper, only signature I’ve done all the time is my artist/username signature

Once that was finally done, I had to take the deposit and give it to this person behind a glass. Just as I was giving the deposit to her, she pulled up these big fat stack of money and I couldn’t take my eye off of them..

I don’t mean any bad intentions and try not to look suspicious.. but I hope it’s normal for someone to look at such a big amount of money this way.. I mean, the only time I’ve seen so much money is in movies! Wow!

It doesn’t help that I’m in need of money though..

Anyways, after this was done. I was home and spend the afternoon trying to catch up on videos before giving up as I realized I was falling into the same loophole of distractions and because everyone was uploading non-stop! I still got distracted looking at pictures of cruise ships though

Also, for the first time in a while. I’m actually tired! .. I wish I could go sleep at the exact moment I’m most tired though, I guess it would feel heavenly, but my doodle is a responsibility.. once I should probably draw earlier so I can sleep as soon as I feel tired.. If Pixie lets me, we love texting each other until late at night, maybe we should call until we fall asleep one day, I think it would be cute

And I gotta give thanks to my friend who linked me some rad 80s-like retro music, anyone who does this will get my utmost love! <3

[sharoncarterly]

“I have NOT been flirting.” for biospec

Jemma wasnot the least bit excited to return to the Hub. She would much rather walk thehallowed grounds of the Triskelion, stay at the Sandbox or the Moroccan office,or hell, go back to Sci-Tech—anywhere but the Hub. No amount of new toys orgadgets could make that particular S.H.I.E.L.D. facility appealing, not whenthere was someone there she wanted to avoid.

“Don’tworry about it,” Trip had said, bumping her shoulder as they had walked downthe ramp of the Bus and into the hangar. “I got your back.”

He was aliar. After disappearing into a situation room with Coulson and May, hepromptly took off on an op with Fitz of all people to South Ossetia thanks toVictoria Hand. And in one fell swoop, Jemma’s two biggest buffers left herfending for herself while he was here, somewhere, beating the hell out of apunching bag or preparing for his next top secret and highly dangerous mission.

Jemmaknew he was here. From the moment she walked into the main atrium, swarmingwith identical suits, she knew. It was almost unnerving how she knew—that hewas still under her skin after all this time apart—but she did.

No matterhow hard she tried, there were just some things that couldn’t be erased orremoved. Distance had been her only defense, her last resort, but even that wasfailing her now.

Stupidly,she thought surrounding herself with others would quell the growinganticipation in her stomach. As mind-numbing as it was chatting with Nathansonand his band of brainless wonders, at least for a moment Jemma could thinkabout how they acquired prestigious roles at the Hub instead of where he was orwhat he was doing or how much longer it would be until he found her and backedher into a corner—literally—again.

She stoodin front of the Sci Ops Division with Milton—what she ever saw in him, Jemma,for the life of her, could not remember—and his all too amenable smile whensuddenly she saw a figure stalking down the hallway toward her with a urgentstride that read determined, unashamed, possessive.

His hand grabbedher forearm, and he hissed, “Can I talk to you,” not as a question but a demandwhile tugging her away. Had Jemma not turned in line with his direction, shemost certainly would have been dragged.

Well, atleast he hadn’t picked her up and hauled her out of there like he had done oncebefore—an embarrassing act with an unfortunate side effect of being a turn-on. Jemmadidn’t have time to reminisce or give Grant Ward an inch of what she knew hedesired right now, though. She had to figure out a way to get away from him andthe feelings he evoked as quickly as possible.

He pushedher into an empty conference room—no badge access required—and hit the buttonon the remote so fast that she barely had time to catch her breath before theglass walls turned opaque.

“What areyou doing,” he growled, whirling around to face her. Jemma grimaced and took astep back from his looming form. She had not forgotten how much taller he wasthan her or the fact that he did not play well with others; sometimes, thecombination of the two still caught her off guard.

“I’m notdoing anything.”

“Really.Speaking to Nathanson was nothing? Talking to Milton”—he paused, seethed—“wasnothing? For God’s sake, if you’re trying to make me jealous by flirting withhas-beens, it’s working, okay? You know it’s goddamn working, so you can stopnow.”

“I havenot been flirting!” she exclaimed. That was the last thing Jemma intended withthose men—the very last thing on her mind.

She knewshe should have just hid on the Bus the entire time or better yet, joined Skyein her undying pursuit of mischief. Grant might be a Level 7 agent, but thehacktivist consultant who knew nothing of Jemma’s relationship with thespecialist would’ve undoubtedly provided alternative, albeit precarious,methods of concealment.

“Wait.”Her breath hitched at a sudden revelation. “How did you know I was withNathanson?” They had been in the lab then with Grant nowhere in sight. “Haveyou— have you been keeping tabs on me?”

“Ofcourse I have!” Jesus Christ, he didn’t even try to deny it. “What did youthink I was going to do after you walked out on me in the middle of the fuckingnight.”

“I said Iwas sorry.”

“But notsorry enough for you to stick around and explain it to me.”

No, shehadn’t. Jemma hadn’t had the decency to give him a proper reason for her abruptdeparture, hadn’t had the courage to be honest.

Lookingat him now, she still didn’t have it in her—not when revealing the dauntingtruth would unleash far more consequences than she could ever survive on herown.

“I reallywasn’t flirting,” she said, trying to appease him now for what mattered nothingin the end. “If there’s nothing else, I really must—”

“You’renot going anywhere.”

Shegulped. He didn’t even start, and yet she had frozen in step to turn and glanceback at him. He still had that effect on her. After all this time, everythingshe had been through with Coulson and the rest of the team, Grant was still theone constant thing humming in her veins.

“I’mleaving,” she announced. He wouldn’t dare make a move here to keep her, not inthe Hub of all places. “You need to let me go.”

Hesmiled—the disbelieving, reluctant, downright disconcerting kind Jemmaremembered him giving her when he would concede for the moment only to somehowwin out in the long run. And his voice, it chilled her as he came up close andwhispered the words she longed and loathed to hear.

“Ican’t.”

[terryblount]

Meck’s Top 5 Games Of 2018

What a good year for video games this has been. A ton of great single-player games on the AAA front to sink your time in. The more niche, indie titles also got some good hits too with the resurgence of strategy tactics and builder games on PC.

So as a person who enjoys a diverge of different game genres with a bias towards gameplay over story, I was spoilt for choice. There’s plenty of good games, some I was given opportunity to review by the publishers, though some I missed just because of budgetary reasons. (WE NEED MORE MUNNEH!)

Anyway, before moving to the Top 5, a quick shoutout to these games that I loved but did not make the cut.

Into The Breach – The followup of the developers of FTL combines rougelike and strategy tactics to perfection. I did a review here.

A Way Out – A bold co-op only adventure game that reignites my belief that one day, these narrative adventure games can be something worth my time playing through.

Tetris Effect – I want to get high on Tetris so bad.

Marvel’s Spider-Man – I only got to play it at a preview event, but I loved what I played. It’s good seeing my favourite developers still going strong.

And here’s my Top 5:

5: Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Spyro! I managed to finally play it after we crowned this game the Best Remake/Remaster for 2018. And it definitely lived up to my expectations.

Twenty years ago I discovered a magical game thanks to a demo disc from a UK magazine. So it’s a PAL disc which meant everything ran in black and white on the NTSC PS1. But, it opened my eyes to a different kind of game- a game with open-ended levels and sandbox design that you can stray away from the critical path for a while and be rewarded for your curiosity.

Spyro The Dragon is the Super Mario 64 replacement for me growing up. Spyro 2 is one of the first games I properly beat to 100% completion. Spyro Year Of The Dragon taught me piracy is wrong since I never found a working bootleg copy back in those days. It kept crashing, the progression loop was broken, some levels won’t load or unlock and then the in-game message seals the deal. That scarred me.

The faithful remake of the trilogy is what I expected bar a few nitpicks. It’s like playing the old three games through nostalgia-laden rose-tinted glasses.

Also, the original Spyro games are how I fell in love with Insomniac, in case you’re wondering.

4: God Of War

Two action game franchises that I never played back at its inception on PS2: Yakuza and God Of War. I’ve finally played Yakuza Kiwami early this year but I did not expect to give God Of War a try.

I was cynical, thinking it would be another The Last Of Us, a great game yes, but I mean it as a ‘oh, it’s that game again’. I also thought that the new dark souls style controls was a weird choice.

I was definitely wrong in all of those accounts.

God Of War is a masterstroke at balancing two extremes you did not expect. It is both a soft reboot and a hard sequel to the three numbered games before. It is a hard-on character action game but with the slower and methodical approach Soulsborne players familiar with. It blends its cinematics and its gameplay into one cohesive package polished to the brim.

God Of War deserves all the praises it gets. It’s not that high on my personal list because I don’t have much attachment to the series and story, but it’s a remarkable masterpiece you should at least give a chance.

3: Frostpunk

So the developers of This War Of Mine made a city builder this time. The city builder aspect got me interested, and the aesthetic of a frozen wasteland with makeshift steampunk technology has a cool, unique look to it.

But man, it pulled some heart strings in me.

While a competent scenario-based city builder at first (it now has a endless mode which is great), the setup and world building around Frostpunk makes it hard to just make the optimal decision. Each choice has a consequence, both good and bad. It’s a matter of choosing what you can cope with right now, even if it sounds wrong.

Making children overwork that can lead to deaths, or amputating injured workers immediately if their limbs broke sounds harsh, desperate and cruel. But times are ending and desperate times calls for desperate measures.

And the most horrific of all is the two philosophy where you can rule your city with- building up faith and become a zealous, cult-like religious fanatics or a safe, over-protective communists that requires 100% obedience to the supreme leader.

But through all of the alarming decisions, the harsh conditions you are tested, there’s always a glimpse of hope that the city will survive. A ray of optimism always shine through this gloomy game and it made such a big impression on me, and on the review for the site.

Plus, I just love city builders in general. About time we got a decent one.

2: Red Dead Redemption II

May I?

I love Red Dead, but oddly it came from the PS2 Red Dead Revolver rather than the first Red Dead Redemption, which I have yet to play to the finish. That did not stop me from enjoying every single bit of Red Dead Redemption II.

I have always wanted a long game to sink in myself in like how I lost myself in Skyrim and Red Dead Redemption II hits the spot. The numerous mechanics never felt tedious or in the way for me, just enough to make me invest in the ever-changing world and, more importantly, invest in Arthur Morgan. That man carries a lot of nuance not only to justify the need for an Honor system, but makes him such a believable character.

I have issues with the controls and it’s not as realistic or system driven as it may look, but you should check my review for that.

You can see from a mile away the story of Red Dead Redemption II will end up and it’s still a gut-wrenching ride. Let me tell you, I was shooketh to the end.

If you ever wanted to see a tragic story being unfold like FFXV but delivered better, Red Dead Redemption II is it.

Also, Arthur for best game dad 2018. The dad of all horses.

1: Hitman 2

This is an obvious pick if you have followed me enough on social media or listen to the many episodes of dia.log – The Gamer Matters Podcast or checked out my review.

There’s something I really enjoy about deadpan humour. The Yakuza series did those well. And now Hitman has upped their game with Hitman 2.

I’ve always been a fan of the series so seeing Hitman 2 realising the full potential to Hitman 2016. And that’s great! But what’s better is how the game embrace the deadpan humour. From your typical black comedy to more absurd, ludicrous references and easter eggs, Hitman 2 is not afraid to have fun.

Yeah, smuggle a fish in that briefcase. Bring it out and throw at someone. Someone else saw it? Now throw that briefcase as it it tracks and curves to reach its target. Why not dress as Knight and pretend it’s Dark Souls? Or grab a shovel instead and pretend you’re playing Shovel Knight? The developers know you want to goof off after the finishing the levels on your first run properly. So they reward you for your curiosity.

And even if you prefer a more linear experience than uncover the secrets of the levels on your own, Hitman 2 nudges you in the right way and also present to you some hilarious circumstance your targets can die from.

If you love Metal Gear Solid and prefer to play stealthily, check out Hitman 2. Skip Hitman 2016, buy Hitman 2 and the Legacy Pack DLC and trust me, it’s fun and brimmed with content now.

2018 was great! Here’s to more good games in 2019!

Meck’s Top 5 Games Of 2018 published first on https://touchgen.tumblr.com/

[apartyinmymouth]

GAME OF THRONES

True to form, I wrote the crux of this entry one week ago today and coincidentally the phone clocked in at 11:11pm when I hit the save button (sidebar b/c I navigate the region so sublimely) But real talk, I was inspired last Friday and took pen to paper knowing I would tweak/edit the draft before publishing. Also knowing I would be in Jamaica in just a few short days, it seemed only fitting to complete it there…over some Real Jamaican Food ;)

When I initially penned this op piece, there hadn’t been any replies on record. It was and still is about the excitement of a rap battle between two respected and revered artists and less of a critique on the actual raps and/or who won or would win. That said, I’m continuing this Op piece from my initial train of thought - more of the possibility of what it could be instead of where we are presently, round 2 in what has shaped up to be a very disrespectful battle.

So that’s what was going on. I, like most people was just casually minding my business, excited about what’s emerging musically within the culture and all the heat set to drop and seemingly out of nowhere, a shot is fired. Pusha T, the remaining half of rap cult group Clipse, through his infrared beam shot his shot at hip-hop’s reigning Golden Child, Aubrey Drake Graham. In truth, the subs between these 2 gentlemen have been building for some time but this was a focused and direct attack. I imagine Drake had been minding his business as well when the sneak hook occurred and like a reflex – responded immediately, calculated and concisely. By midnight on Friday May 25th a full on battle had ensued. An official rap battle and it’s exciting to be honest. It’s good for the culture! It’s like a GoT season 6 episode 9; Battle of The Bastards sort of moment in the culture. Only this time I believe the underdog is actually the man currently on top. I don’t think y’all understand, I love this rap shit – I can’t lie. The art of it all, it’s the BEST! If both sides are ready and prepared I think it could be great. A lot of people sleep on Drake and forget that he can actually rap.

One thing’s evident with this crew, they do not half step. It’s like that moment in the movie Heat, when Al Pacino realizes he’s been made and says to his team “this is the No Fuckin’ Around Crew.” Nothing is done impulsively no matter the expedience at which something might appear to occur. If they shooting, believe they got magazines racked up ready to let off. It is not a one off. Perhaps it’s the “slept on, stay ready” mentality. A smart one they’ve perfected and so they stay winning. Drake’s consistently put out great music. Feature after feature, album after album, hit after hit – since he stepped foot in the door, The Boy has not missed - a first in this art form. Personally, “Nothing Was The Same” is my favorite body of work in his catalog to date. Top to bottom it’s an all-encompassing complete album full of earned flexing. It’s that “I’m not a freshman, no longer new to this but still feeling like the props I deserve are not being shown and why not, I’m really that nigga!” Is it because he’s foreign that he’s scrutinized more heavily? Hating on Drake is the fuel he uses. This coupled with the fact that the boy is really talented (a fact few of his peers want to acknowledge) is the exact reason why he’ll continue to win. Hate in their veins. Who God Bless, No Man Curse - understand this.

And then there’s Push. Ties and affiliations aside, Pusha T is a lyricist. That rap lyrical respect thing is something else and Clipse is deeply entrenched in the culture. They had/have a cult following! Mix in his crews (Pharrell – Startrak/iamOther x Kanye – G.O.O.D. Music – musical geniuses) this just thickens and sweetens the pot. No offense but this is nowhere even close to that lukewarm Drake x Meek Mill sandbox scafuffle a few seasons back. This battle is a level!

The “battle” is the ethos of rap. This is hip-hop in its truest form. Rap is a contact sport and at times the most deadly because there are no rules. These men, both gifted and skilled in their own right, are sparring right now. Survival of the fittest. I understand this may be new territory for today’s mumble/drug rap generation – “sensitive thugs” purveyors of the ice-cream saccharin sweet sound. You guys are bearing witness to legacy! There is nothing fair about a rap battle. Just ask Ja Rule. It’s eat or get eaten and apparently it’s eating season right now. Personally speaking, I love a great rap battle! I remember candidly the beefs between KRS-1 & MC Shan, Roxanne Shante & The Real Roxanne, Dr. Dre/NWA & Easy E, Ice Cube & Easy E, Cool J and Canibus, the fatal beef between Biggie & Pac that divided a nation and of course the most epic battle of all that birthed the term “ethered”, the beef between Jay Z & Nas. I’ve been a die hard Jay fan since I first heard him on Stretch & Bobbito’s radio show on 89 tech 9 back in the mid-90s. I’ll never forget driving down 2nd Ave in New York City on a surprisingly balmy day in November 2001 listening to Hot 97 FM. Nas had just recorded his answer to Jay’s diss record Takeover and they were about to premiere it on Flex’s show. The moment the beat drop, my heart sunk. “Fuck Jay Z!” chopped and screwed up. The dj drops an atomic bomb adlib effect, starts the record over. “Fuck Jay Z!” I knew in that moment Jay was done. Takeover was volcanic. Jay in a very comedic way pretty much “sonned” Nas with hard truth and the truth is sometimes tough to bear. But then Nas, maybe as a result of feeling disrespected by this “Judas trader”, went nuclear! Ether was the Nasir Jones we loved and had longed to see. Jay tried a feeble attempt at retaliation with the lack luster “Super Ugly” but the winner was clear. There was no coming back after Ether. The crown prince took the L he never saw coming.  

As far as this Pusha x Drake beef goes, to date, some really unsavory and defamatory things have been said, I do not disagree. And other people have been dragged into the conversation unjustly. My assumption is unless this wraps up quickly, more things will be said. But all of that aside, understanding the players involved and how much each of them love this real hip hop shit to their core, there has to be a slight tinge of excitement though no one enjoys being on the tail end of a joke. I haven’t been this tuned in to a rap beef since Jay & Nas (50 & Ja Rule’s local Queens catty shit bored me to be honest. {and dudes from Queens be so fuckin’ extra for NO reason} though it did result in the end Ja’s career). So I’m thanking both Drake and Push right now. If for no other reason then for reminding (by example) these other clown rappers what this wave is really about. Good Rap Music!  

IMO, the question was never about whether Drake was good or skilled enough to battle Push. Clearly Push believed Drake to be a formidable opponent or he wouldn’t have baited him in the first place. Pusha T is a rapper’s rapper. He wouldn’t have wasted his time, which says a lot about The Boy (a fact some love to argue) The question is can Aubrey be as ruthless as Push? Would he be? If you’re at war or in a battle, you have to fight. This is muthafuckin’ Game of Thrones…Watch The Throne! This is rap music! Kudos Kiddos. This is a music industry bucket list moment. Something you’ll talk about like hip-hop folklore. You’re generation is living through it’s first official rap battle. And it’s real one! –APIMM

Soundtrack for this entry from my schizophrenic iTunes Library.

“Nice Time” –Bob Marley “Hypocrites” –Bob Marley “Duppy Conqueror” –Bob Marley “The Bridge Is Over” – KRS-1 “Set It Off” –Big Daddy Kane “Wu Tang Clan Ain’t Nothin’ To Fuck Wit” –Wu Tang Clan ″4, 3, 2, 1,” -LL Cool J feat. Method Man, Redman, Canibus, DMX ″Second Round K.O.” -Canibus “The Ruler’s Back’ –Jay Z “Takeover” –Jay Z “Ether” –Nas ″Infared” -Pusha T  “Duppy Freestyle” –Drake “Ego”-Clipse “Momma I’m So Sorry” -Clipse ″The Games We Play” -Pusha T “Lord Knows” –Drake feat. Rick Ross “Yes Indeed” –Lil Baby feat. Drake “Camay” –Ghostface Killah feat. Raekwon “Planez” –Jermih feat. J.Cole “Fuckin’ You Tonight” –Notorious B.I.G. “Sexy” –Tank “When We” – Tank “Keep Calm” -dvsn “Be With You” -112 “I Need You” –Alicia Keys “Full of Smoke” –Christion “I’m The Only Woman” –Mary J Blige “The Beggar” –Mos Def “Back to Black” –Amy Winehouse “So Simple” –Alicia Keys “The Waiting Line” –Zero 7