#audio is from Detroit become human

[gothiclynovi]

A little animatic for my Fearless au :P

[dbhstruggleposting]

How badly must you want something to defy death and get it anyways? How insane must you be to tell the Grim Reaper 'no'? How in love must you be with humanity to walk amongst corpses and bless them for their sacrifices?

Anyways Markus is metal as fuck (pun intended)

[bekaterrier]

A few other wonderful shows I wanted to shoutout for BIPOCtober, with BIPOC creators and/or leads:

A Ninth World Journal: Based on Numenera, a tabletop roleplaying game, and written, produced and performed by David S. Dear (plus guests). Set one billion years in the future… it’s the story of Januae, a man who randomly teleports to strange and dangerous places with no way of controlling it.

@meteorcitypod: In 2008, a freak meteor shower hit Detroit, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. Hundreds of people were quarantined for radiation exposure. 10 years later, Bianca Diaz, a vlogger returns to tell the stories of the dead, the missing, and the remaining citizens of Detroit, now called Meteor City. Shortly after returning, Bianca realizes that Meteor City, New Detroit, and the people left behind are not what they appear to be...

@witcheverpath: An interactive horror anthology podcast. Their current story is Message in a Bottle. A siren misses what was taken from her, but as she swims out to sea, she discovers a bottle that may change the course of her life.

@radio-outcast: A fantasy-western audio drama. When Helix, the Messenger God of Sound, gets yanked from the 1980s and sent to the 1880s by her abusive ex-lover, the God of Time, she must forge unlikely alliances with two humans: Jesse, a cowboy out for revenge, and Charles, a conman running from his past. The three of them embark on a journey across the American West, each with their own goals and secrets waiting to be revealed

@vegapodcast: A Sci-Fi Adventure Podcast!: In a fantasy futuristic world, Vega Rex is employed by her government to kill off the world's worst criminals. She's never met a criminal she couldn't catch...until now. Join Vega as she journeys through a world of bumbling apprentices, powerful technogods, and her biggest challenge yet

@noadventurespod: A fantasy (un)adventure story that follows Sig, the owner of Signature Eats bakery, as he aggressively avoids becoming embroiled in any daring quests or chosen one shenanigans even though the universe really seems to want him to do just that. This is a story about cutting the Hero’s Journey off at the knees to chill with friends. And also baking. This is also a story about baking.

Harlem Queen: A Black historical fiction audio drama based on the life and times of Black, woman, gangster "Numbers Queen" Madame Stephanie St. Clair during the Harlem Renaissance (the story takes place around 1926-32). She fought the "big boys" (Lucky Luciano and Dutch Schultz) and won.

@herebedragonspod: When the body of a previously unknown aquatic creature washes up on shore, four women are called together for the expedition of a lifetime. Tasked by the U.S. Government to find and record evidence of this new breed of sea monster, Harper Bennett, Pippa Cambell, Lt. Commander Adrienne Scarlett and Dr. Natalya Atlas set off into the untamed wilds of The Bermuda Triangle.

@unwellpodcast: A Midwestern Gothic Mystery. Lillian Harper moves to the small town of Mt. Absalom, Ohio, to care for her estranged mother Dorothy after an injury. Living in the town's boarding house which has been run by her family for generations, she discovers conspiracies, ghosts, and a new family in the house's strange assortment of residents.

Fan Wars: The Empire Claps Back: A not-so-romantic comedy about two star wars fans on opposite sides of the Last Jedi debate.

[alecthewreck]

Detroit Become Human RBB 24

I completed three fics for the DBH RBB '24 @dbh-bb

Based on @keined 's artwork, we created "A Touch of Comfort"

Connor's audio processors become damaged after a fight during a case. He has to learn to cope with the loss of hearing as he finds ways to navigate the world anew. Thankfully, he has a great work partner, Hank, and an even more wonderful romantic partner, Nines, to help him along.

Based on @wicked-well 's artwork, we created "Crossing the Path" part one of the larger "Theory and Practice of Taming a Witcher" series.

Gavin, a Witcher from the School of Cat, finds himself wandering a forest completely lost. He stumbles on someone tied to a tree and left for dead, and the two make a deal to help each other out of the forest. Neither expect what comes from their quickly formed alliance.

Based on @qrjung 's artwork, we created "Eve of Discard"

Post-Revolution Detroit, the streets are empty after a government mandated evacuation. Left behind are the androids who fought for and won their freedom. Led by Jericho's Markus, North, Josh, and Simon, they discover freedom, home, and love.

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Thursday, June 13

XANDER: Laugh now, missy, they assigned you to the booth for law enforcement professionals. BUFFY: (stunned) As in police? XANDER: As in polyester, doughnuts and brutality.

~~What's My Line~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Annoyance by Enigmatist (Spike, Angel, Joyce, Buffy, Not Rated)

kiss that’s black as sea by evesock (Buffy/Willow, E)

Up all Night, I Won't Quit by Hecate (Faith/Katherine Pierce, TVD xover, M)

Love (Spaith; Spike/Faith) by Datherine100 (Spike/Faith, T)

VD/Buffy: Last Battle by Datherine100 (Buffy, Faith, TVD xover, T)

OUAT/Angel: Love Will Conquer by Datherine100 (Cordelia/Hook, Once Upon a Time (TV) xover, T)

In Disarray and Dazed (Spike x Y/N) by itsalwaysteatimeinwonderland (Spike/reader, unrated)

Leaving Sunnydale by Rea (Buffy/Spike, G)

[Chaptered Fiction]

Overheard - Ch. 1-3 by silvain (Giles/Ethan, T)

The Adventures Of Cordelia Chase and Xander Lavelle Harris vol.1: She's Back - Ch. 1-8 by Datherine100 (Xander/Cordelia, T)

and multiple other works by Datherine100, a few directly linked below. all rated T, some are one shot collections. other pairings include: Buffy/Spike, Angelus/Darla, Angel/Darla, Buffy/Angel

Xanya (Xander/Anya) - Ch. 1-3 by Datherine100 (Xander/Anya, T)

Coyle (Cordy/Doyle) - Ch. 1-3 by Datherine100 (Cordelia/Doyle, T)

Biley (Buffy/Riley) - Ch. 1-4 by Datherine100 (Buffy, Riley, T)

The Devil's Trill - Ch. 9 by Murray (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Deliverance From Destiny - Ch. 31 by Ragini (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Reclaimed - Ch. 6 by Holly (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Waiting for You - Ch. 8 by honeygirl51885 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

To All We Guard - Ch. 23 by simmony (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Out of Time: 1942 - Ch. 57 by Jonayla (Buffy, HP xover, FR18)

Ship of The Line – Effect 31 - Ch. 14 by KnifeHand (Xander, Mass Effect and Star Trek xover, FR18)

You Drive Me Out Of My Mind - Ch. 1-35 by Geliot99 (Buffy/Spike, R) COMPLETE!

Bruises - Ch. 20 by hulettwyo (Buffy/Spike, Adult Only)

Bruises - Ch. 19 by hulettwyo (Buffy/Spike, Adult Only)

Waiting for You - Ch. 8 by honeygirl51885 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Dear Journal - Ch. 6 by Desicat (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) COMPLETE!

[Images, Audio & Video]

Artwork: Does it burn? - Ch. 1 by Dirtyaim (Spike, NSFW, rated PG-13)

Artwork: Spuffified: A Collection - Ch. 5 by satinsafe (Buffy/Spike, NSFW, rated PG-13)

Textpost: spuffy + textposts (4/?) by spikespeaches (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Gifset: buffy + angel's claddagh ring by ptieuca (Buffy/Angel, worksafe)

Gifset: buffy + wearing angel's jacket by ptieuca (Buffy/Angel, Giles, Willow, worksafe)

Artwork: “You ask me to dance and you just stand there?” by l0veisntbrains (Buffy/Spike, worksafe)

Gifset: 6x15 || 7x05 by clarkgriffon (Buffy, Anya, Spike, Xander, worksafe)

Gifset: Willow Rosenberg + Outfits (Season 4) by clarkgriffon (Willow, worksafe)

Gifset: Ranking Buffy Summers' hair evolution (as voted by my followers) 6/11 by buffysummers (Buffy, worksafe)

Artwork: ☀️☀️ ATS 219. Belonging ☀️☀️ by tmcarlee (Cordelia, worksafe)

[Reviews & Recaps]

REACTION VIDEO: May 22, 2001: Watching 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' Season 5 Finale by 90s Grunge Dreams

[Recs & In Search Of]

l0veisntbrains recs So It Goes by scratchmeout [bonus Spuffy art]

ISO: Pineappleskies1991 seeks Rainy Episodes [from BTVS or ATS]

ISO: thisguy49 seeks shooting location - Does anyone know what school was used to film Angel episode Happy Anniversary

[Fandom Discussions]

POLL: Absolute BEST Faith dream scene? (R2 - bonus round - photos below) by elizadushkudaily

POLL: Vampire Media Guys Round 16: Spike or Klaus Mikaelson? by vampirewrestlinglover

POLL: If Angel existed in “Detroit: Become Human”, would he be pro-android rights or anti-android rights? by giveamadeuschohisownmovie

POLL: Spike from Buffy the vampire slayer, plz. by bedpolls

Anya/Xander vs Other Age Gap Relationships by lightningrain

... Kendra leaves the next day. Where did she stay that night? by finalgirl1984

Cordelia deserved to be back in season 7 for the finale or at least have a comeback... by cordelia-slay

[poll on non-canon crack Buffyverse ships - see commentary in tags] by cangeltwillowinvestigations

Oz in Buffy is often praised for his emotional maturity and calm demeanor... by air--so--sweet

Show me a HERO & I'll write you a T R A G E D Y [Xander rp] by theanimulus

Was Riley Suicidal? by nightshade

I refuse to accept Kennedy as Willow's end game pairing / one true love. updated by garfan

What's your favorite Buffy merchandise? by jigglesauruspuff

behind the scenes photo of amber (tara) in the [new] film ‘i saw the tv glow’ by amigaraaaaaa

Who else is still annoyed that Eliza [who played Faith] wasn't invited to the 20th reunion in 2017? by Other_Thing_2551

Sineya by illvria

Kendra’s existence is confusing. by Complex_Bit_4921

Good point [Riley's sense of masculinity] by jogaforacont

Tara was on a slow and gradual course... to become Buffy's closest friend. by GreyStagg

Unpopular opinion: Willow should have been killed off. by Kat-Attack-52

Angels Timeline [on ATS] by CazzaGal

Los Angeles as a character [in ATS] by Berry-Pie216

Gunn & Fred by Trick-Flight-8749

Submit a link to be included in the newsletter!

Join the editor team :)

[several-ravens]

@jo1sstuff i'm going to reply to this in its own post so i can find it and add to it later more easily if i need to

also it's under the cut because it's a demonstation that's long af

tldr: technology

so here is the line of thinking that got me to this conclusion:

1) episode 65 presents something totally different from any other category we've met so far, and that is analog horror (so found footage, creepy videos, possessed digital devices, and the likes). usually it is about something that's old, or older than the person who uses it (just like tessa winters in 2017 who finds the (alleged) program made by sergei yshanka in the 1980's)

and analog horror has been a very important part of the 'new age' of horror as technology and the internet grew. there are some very famous things like the movies the ring and blair witch project, or mickey mouse whistling, or the scp foundation, or the new doom mod, or creepy pasta, you get the idea

my personal comment: it's very meta to have an episode on analog horror which is literally an ancestor and relative to tma itself, and i LOVE this

2) tessa winters makes a loooong monologue about the differences between analog and digital and draws our attention to jon's tape recorder

which reminded me of the very first episode where he explains why he records some statements on tape: "I plan to digitise the files as much as possible and record audio versions, though some will have to be on tape recorder, as my attempts to get them on my laptop have met with… significant audio distortions." (unofficial transcripts)

3) in episode 62, gertrude says: "Who does the book come from?" and mary keay responds: "The End, of course." (unofficial transcripts)

notice how she said 'who' and not 'where'. so my guess is the categories are not only there to classify the different types of fears but also have an 'entity' or a 'god' attached to it

my personal comment: i like the idea that they are similar to the great old ones from lovecraft, who also plays a very fundamental part in today's horror

4) i'm then reminded of american gods by neil gaiman (<3), where the gods of the old worships have a war with the new ones (technology, media, etc.)

which brings us back to our point no.2 (analog vs. digital), and the fact that apparently the only things that won't go into jonathan's computer are the statements that fit into the categories, so that are associated with our 'old gods' (the end, and the 13 others)

"why wouldn't they go digital?" you might ask. well, because they are at war with digital and the new technologies (or something of that kind). here i quote the unofficial transcripts from mag47: jonathan says: "You make it sound like there’s a… war." to which delirium michael responds with: "[heh] Then I will say nothing further. I wouldn’t wish to tarnish your ignorance prematurely."

5) the fear of our future being taken over by technology is a very real thing (detroit become human comes to my mind rn, also fallout somehow (even though it's more about capitalism but technology is still important, i.e. nuclear weapons), also the current discourses with ai, etc.)

so its just a draft for now, but my guess is something along the lines of 'technology' or like 'progress'

P.S. (i know editing a post after it has been posted is bad but honetly idc): you (jo1sstuff) said something about the 15th corridor not being there at the time of episode 35, which confirms this theory about 'technology' being a new, emergent deity

[aro-simp]

Hi! Y'all can call my Sean (he/it + cyber/glitch/[redacted])! This is a sideblog, I follow and like from @couple-of-assbutts (and occasionally @schroedingers-faggot )

I'm the median host of The Auditorium Hivemind (Audio Hive/Tah)! And this is Bucky, one of our headmates!

I'm plural, which may be talked about here occasionally, as fictive parts also partake in selfshipping. Plurality is a complex topic, don't berate us on how we talk about our own system!

We don't do shipcourse, and have no DNI!

I tag nsfw as nsft! Other than that I don't really have a tag system, tho I may tag some specific f/o's or sources.

All our posts are okay to be reblogged no need to ask permission :)

I don't have a consistent stand on sharing, so if in doubt about a specific F/O just shoot me an ask!

F/O list is beneath the Read More!

In brackets are shipnames I'll hopefully use for tagging purposes

Fictoromantic F/Os:

Inspector Lestrade - Sherlock Holmes [Clueless Love]

Bassa Selim - Die Entführung aus dem Serail (2022 Bielefeld production) [Felix Amor]

Tim Bradford - The Rookie [Tough Luck]

Queerplatonic F/Os (this list is not, and probably will never be, complete):

Jesse Pinkman - Breaking Bad [JesSean]

Krazy-8/Domingo - Breaking Bad

Maddie Nolen - Arcane

Helmut Zemo - Captain America: Civil War

Bucky - MCU

Levi - AoT

Captain Curly - Mouthwashing

Jimmy - Mouthwashing (fictive)

Pete "Maverick" Mitchell - Top Gun [PsyMav] (soulbonded)

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw - Top Gun: Maverick [RoosPsy] (introject)

Nick "Goose" Bradshaw - Top Gun [GoosePsy]

Jack Traven - Speed

Gregory House - House MD

Robert Chase - House MD

Lawrence Kutner - House MD

Ninth Doctor - Doctor Who

The Author - Doctor Who OC [Quill-N-Drill]

Simm!Master - Doctor Who [Your Lord And Master]

Captain Jack Harkness - Doctor Who

Rebecca Crane - Assassin's Creed

Desmond Miles - Assassin's Creed

Wyll - Baldur's Gate 3

Karlach - Baldur's Gate 3

Jonathan Crane/Scarecrow - Batman Begins

Bane - The Dark Knight Rises

Almond Cookie + Tea Knight Cookie - Cookie Run

Eddie Brock - Venom

Hobie Brown - Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse

Gollum - Lord of The Rings

Shane - Stardew Valley

Javier Esposito + Kevin Ryan - Castle

Jerry Tyson - Castle

Ilya Sokurov - The Rookie

Jared Stone - Castle

Ivan - Die Fledermaus (2022 Bielefeld production)

Figaro - Barber of Sevilla (2023 Bielefeld production)

Agent Stone - Sonic

Adam - Hazbin Hotel

Sir Pentious - Hazbin Hotel

Reginald Thorpe - Moriarty

Rodney Lambert - Moriarty

Farengar Secret-Fire - Skyrim

Rune - Skyrim

Dr John Watson - Sherlock Holmes

Dorian Gray - The Picture of Dorian Gray

Henry Clerval - Frankenstein

Robert Walton - Frankenstein

Matthew Asquith - Sherlock Holmes: Der Erpresser von Edinburgh

Cicero - Skyrim

Crowley - Good Omens

Aragorn - Lord of The Rings

Gavin Reed - Detroit: Become Human

Jacob Frye - Assassin's Creed [Jaccup]

John Standish - Assassin's Creed [IT Noob]

James Bond - personal AU

William Cooper - R.E.D.

Sexual F/Os (almost all my selfship have a sexual component, these however are exclusively sexual F/Os):

Cahir - The Witcher (Netflix)

Ancano - Skyrim

Julius Caesar - Asterix

Platonic and Familial F/Os (very very shortened version):

Viggo Grimborn - Dragons: Race To The Edge

Toothless - How To Train Your Dragon (Movies)

Oscar - maritimverse

Polly Danbridge-Burton - maritimverse

Ernest Fillmore - maritimverse

Natasha "Phoenix" Trace - Top Gun: Maverick

Robert "Bob" Floyd - Top Gun: Maverick

Dark Choco Cookie - Cookie Run

Red Velvet Cookie - Cookie Run

Simon "Ghost" Riley - Call of Duty

Ethan Hunt - Mission Impossible

Some random links:

TES OCs, Top Gun S/I

"He's just like me fr" - fictionselves (fictotypes and median fictives. We also have other fictives in the main sys but this is abizt meeeeee) - incomplete

Shaun Hastings (Assassin's Creed)

Hiccup/Hicks (How To Train Your Dragon)

Boromir (Lord of the Rings)

James Moriarty (maritimverse)

Sherlock Holmes (ACD Canon)

Connor/RK800 (Detroit: Become Human)

Basil Hallward (The Picture of Dorian Gray)

Powder (Arcane)

Elijah Miles (Assassin's Creed)

Carter (James Bond: Casino Royale)

Aziraphale (Good Omens)

[qrjung]

sideblogs

@void-candy — for gifs, edits, icons and stuff I find on tumblr

@joshman-theandroid — for Josh and all Josh related activities.

@onetiredcorvid — personal blog

@houseofinfamy — for "obey me" and other related activities.

--- Since this is a DBH-centric blog; I don't care if you think Hank and Connor are father and son or if they're dating both options are purely headcanons and there's nothing wrong with that. But I prefer sticking with canon on this one; they're friends. Either way, I don't like the hate directed to either side and this conversation has a tendency to turn into meaningless fandom squabble. Keep all your Hank & Connor discourse away from me.

--- Please don't involve Gavin Reed in my stuff. Do whatever you want, but I don't wish to perceive it.

TAG SYSTEM* [below the cut]

orange - tag category

red - commonly used tags

Fandom tags:

--- detroit become human || horrible histories || call of duty || hetalia || jujutsu kaisen || moon knight || six idiots || guild codex || pacrim || pushing daisies || doctor sleep

Single character tags:

--- DBH: dbh markus || dbh north || dbh josh || dbh simon || dbh jericrew || dbh kara || dbh alice || dbh allen || dbh perkins || dbh kamski || dbh amanda || dbh hank || dbh connor || dbh luther || dbh ralph || dbh lucy || dbh jerry || dbh nines || dbh sixty || dbh carl || dbh leo || dbh chloe || dbh kamski || dbh traci || dbh daniel || ra9

--- COD: valeria garza || kyle gaz garrick || farah karim || simon ghost riley || john soap mactavish || gunslinger ghost feed

Character Interaction Tags

--- DBH: rk1k || connorkus || simarkus || norkus || luthara || northara || polycho || dbh trio || platoniconk

--- COD: ghostsoap || faralex

--- HWS/APH: lietpol

Misc. Fandom Tags

--- dbh headcanons || dbh meta || david cage critical || dbh memes || smol art || dbh mods || skinless androids || vampire markus || jjk meta

Non Fandom tags:

--- asks || myth posting || art posting || history posting || lit posting || random || saved posts || writing || osp || dionysus || cats || machine posting || angel posting || ref

Tagged by post type:

--- photo || text || link || art || gifs || video || polls || audio

*tags will most likely be added as time goes on

[ask-a-w]

Separate Ways was great!

Done watching a playthrough of Separate Ways.

I give two thumbs up.

Spoilers below the cut.

Things I loved:

Expanding Luis' & Ada's interactions. I found the opening cutscene between them to be hilarious.

IT is beautifully horrendous

Laser room

Saddler vs Ada

Lily sounds pretty good in the DLC! I wonder why her audio was so rough in the main game though.

Ada planting a tracker on Leon. Fanfic galore time!

Ada interacts with Ashley just a bit.

Ada's IRIS contact lens. Gives me Detroit: Become Human vibes.

Ada's dry commentary of her surroundings/environment is quite funny.

Things I missed from OG Separate Ways:

Ada doesn't comment on the ganado wearing Leon's jacket at all. (Edit: I am told she does say something about his jacket but the voice line is random and does not happen on all playthroughs)

Ada doesn't leave notes for Leon this time.

Things I'm on the fence:

Wesker being in Spain. So what's the point of hiring Ada if he can do most of the shit himself?

Ada's sleeve is mended between chapters 1 & 2. I guess she carries a travel sized sewing kit. :P

Other things I found interesting:

(Screenshots from this playthrough)

Watching Ada sell this to the merchant made me a bit sad.

Red string of fate? ;)

Ada's charm gives Ada a different bonus.

Some of her dialogue mirrors Leon a bit and I quite like it.

She looks worried but she still looks gorgeous!

Her eyeroll and lip biting at Leon's remark that he should be grateful.

After Leon says she's an encyclopedia and hangs up, she says this. That's kinda sweet.

"Fly, my pretty!"

I find it funny how there's a random mook doing things in the background.

Then she trails him to his house.

[simptasia]

aaaah iwas just counting the days until the neil newbon astarion posting began!!! i recognized him from detroit become human when my friend showed me a video and thought oh sapphire will like this <3 as a connoisseur what do u like most abt his performance in baldurs gate 3?

thats so funny because as soon as i started reblogging him i could feel people thinking "yep there it is"

years ago i saw audio clips of neil as astarion and was like "oooh neil as a flirty vampire i love that" because that man is Made to be a vampire. but then time passed and my neil newbon crush went dormant

then this game came out

sooo my friends and dash have been going ham for this guy but i've been rather,,, distracted this month so the Thirst was only allowed to manifest a few days ago

at first i was like "neil as a slutty bitchy vampire is perfect and i love that" plus i love neil himself getting the attention he fucking deserves. however the love of astarion really Hit when my dear friend katie gushed about him to me and revealed to me his depths

the trauma. the abuse. that got me. i did Not expect what they did with this character. i thought he was the horny flirty vampire stereotype but turns out he's a deconstruction of that

turns out it's not fun being defined by how fuckable you are

annnyways. first things first, i love the body language of his performance. in game and out, seriously it's so fun to see neil do the voice in real life because he immediately adopts the fruitiest ponciest manner of moving. the cadance is so like, foppish (caught me off guard) in a way that should be annoying but it works? somehow? it's just a fun voice to listen to. dude's funny and bitchy. but it doesn't hinder the performance, like, when this dude sounds hurt/betrayed/angry, it's fucking... raw. it's painful

also i've watched some videos of his more vulnerable and romantic moments and oh yeah. thats the good stuff. at the start of this i never would have expected this character to be so damn, like, soft and giddy for the concept of like, a typical romantic relationship?

i wuv him. i wanna hold him and sleep in a bed with him and also fuck but that can come later when starry feels comfy

[ghostflowerdreams]

Hi, could you tell me the inspiration or source behind each of the prompts in the 'Haunted House & Strange Town AUs' post?

It's this post, right?

It's been years, so I can't remember all of them clearly. Some prompts were based on a specific media, others were entirely made up with a slight influence from something, and a few drew inspiration from multiple sources.

True Blood (TV series), The Vampire Diaries (TV series), Twilight (2008), etc.

Welcome to Night Vale (podcast)

The Mist (2007) with a bit of The Phenomenon (audio drama), The Fog (1980/2005), etc.

The Faculty (1998), Parasyte: The Maxim (anime), The Thing (1982)

Silent Hill (2006), Silent Hill (video game), Alan Wake (video game), Fatal Frame (video game), etc.

The Boy (2016). The House of the Devil (2009)

Being Human (TV series)

Sleepy Hollow (1999), Sleepy Hollow (TV series)

Tremors (1990), Tremors (TV series)

Bright (2017) with a bit of Shadowhunters (TV series), Grimm (TV series)

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) with a bit of Last Christmas (2019), Spring (2014), The Rusalka (2018), etc.

Siren (TV series)

Satanic Panic (2019)

Chronicle (2012), Smallville (TV series)

The Evil Dead (1981/2013), The Cabin in the Woods (2012), Hellraiser (1987), The Ring (2002), Wish Upon (2017), etc.

Rose Red (TV miniseries)

Hotel Transylvania (2012)

The Lost Boys (1987)

Coraline (2009), The NeverEnding Story (1984), The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005), Through the Looking-Glass by Lewis Carroll, etc.

Phasmophobia (video game) with a little bit of Ghostbusters (1984), F.E.A.R. (video game), Supernatural (TV series), etc.

Scream (TV series) with a bit of Halloween (2007)

Slither (2006)

Frankenweenie (2012) with a little bit of ParaNorman (2012) and a dash of Casper (1995) with the focus on a ghost pet

Dagon (2001), Society (1989), with a little bit of Get Out (2017), etc.

Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #1) by Maggie Stiefvater

The Curse of Sleeping Beauty (2016)

Haunted Mansion (2003), Dark Shadows (TV series), Dark Shadows (2012), etc.

Ouija (2014)

Firestarter (1984) & Stranger Things (TV series)

Super 8 (2011)

The Stepford Wives (1975/2004)

The Twilight Zone (TV series) with a tiny bit of Pleasantville (1998)

Haven (TV series)

Child's Play (1988), M3GAN (2022), Annabelle (2014), The Boy (2016), etc.

Groundhog Day (1993), Happy Death Day (2017), The Map of Tiny Perfect Things��(2021), Palm Springs (2020), Before I Fall (2017), etc.

Thirteen Ghosts (2001)

Among Us (video game), The Thing (1982), The Astronaut's Wife (1999), Europa Report (2013), a tiny bit of Prey (video game)

Resident Evil: Village (2021), It (2017/2019)

The Crazies (2010)

Wayward Pines (TV series)

The House on Haunted Hill (1999)

Ghost in the Shell (1995), Fallout 4, Detroit: Become Human (2018), Blade Runner (1982), Blade Runner 2049 (2017), Terminator (1984), etc.

Just Like Heaven (2005), Ghost Whisperer (TV series), Casper (1995), a little bit of Ghosts (TV series)

SurrealEstate (TV series)

Dead Zone (TV series), Medium (TV series)

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956, 1978, or 2007)

1408 (2007)

Loch Ness (1996), The Water Horse (2007)

Smart House (1999) with a tiny bit of Ex Machina (2015)

Sense8 (TV series), The Haunting of Hill House (TV series), The Secret of Moonacre (2008)

[tongueofcat]

Magic Lessons

Chapter Four: Drenched

Fandom: Detroit: Become Human

Pairing: Connor RK800/F!Human Reader

Tags: Innocent Connor (Detroit: Become Human), Eventual Smut, Father-Son Relationship, Canon-Typical Violence, Implied/Referenced Sexual Assault, Post-Peaceful Android Revolution (Detroit: Become Human)

Word Count: 4,572

Masterlist | Link to Ao3

Notes: This is a longer chapter for me, and I ended it on what I consider a cliffhanger. Oops! Also, the explicit rating comes to play in this chapter.

The rest of your day had been boring: grocery shopping, doom scrolling through various forms of social media, and dinner. It’s nice to take a break from your studies, but now you’ve found a new distraction: six foot, brown hair, and brown eyes with a smile that can liquify your insides to a gelatinous goo. Honestly, if you didn’t know better, you’d think your body was trying to liquify itself as his deep eyes flashed in your memory: focused and precise; intimately interested.

But what kind of ‘interested’ was Connor? That must be your own egg to crack.

Rain was pelting on your window, the sound soothing and pleasant as you spent the rest of your day before work daydreaming about Connor on and off. Then your phone vibrated near you on the bed as you were idly browsing a streaming service, looking for something to watch. Your eyes lazily focus on the screen of your cellphone before realizing the preview bubble of the text message is addressed from Connor.

You’ve never opened your phone so fast.

Connor: Hello, how is your day going?

Your thumbs all but stab your phone screen as you hastily type out your response.

You: Good!! I’m just wasting time before work. Looking for something to watch and turn my brain off for a while, you know?

There’s a pause, you hungrily watch your phone for a response, even though you just sent your reply. You must’ve waited for a whole minute, eyes glued on the lit screen of your cell before you see the ‘…’ bubble pop up, notifying you that Connor is building a response. Then it comes.

Connor: Please don’t turn off your brain.

You blink, your mind taking a moment to catch him taking your turn of phrase literally. Maybe? It’s unclear without the nuance of audio cues, body language or facial expressions.

Connor: I like your brain.

Connor: A lot.

You giggle, butterflies bumping around in your belly as you formulate your response.

You: Is that all you like, detective?

You: Just my brain?

The little ‘…’ bubble pops up, animating small pulsing periods, before retreating, then coming back.

Connor: No.

Your stomach is playing hopscotch now, you were sure of it. Heat pools low in your stomach and you feel your face get hot. No, you’re supposed to be getting back at him, not letting yourself pant excitedly like a dog at his heels. You had to derail this before it got out of control and you were begging on your knees, heart eyes and all…

You: Shouldn’t you be busy, mister detective? You know, solving crimes and making criminals squirm like worms. Stuff like that.

The reply was almost instant.

Connor: I can multitask, madam.

A smirk plays on your lips as you reply.

You: What about your internal clock earlier today? Ignoring your alarm for little ol’ me.

You watched the little bubble pop up fast.

Connor: I won’t deny you’re distracting. Also, I wasn’t ignoring it, I didn’t notice it. That is a key difference.

You feel like a schoolgirl giggling and kicking her feet. You’re positively obsessing over texting this stupid boy, unashamedly caught in his web. Another text comes through when you don’t respond within a mere handful of seconds.

Connor: I do not ignore things.

Connor: Ignoring things is not in my programming. I’m highly advanced, you know.

Affectionately you roll your eyes, typing.

You: Oh? What are your features, mister highly advanced.

You’re giggling like an idiot when your phone flashes with a green phone icon notifying an incoming call, the name flashing atop clearly reading ‘Connor’. You gulp, frozen for a moment in time before anxiously accepting it, pressing your cell to your ear.

“C-Connor?” Your voice comes out in an undignified croak. You hear him laugh in your ear and fight hard not to swoon, to get lost in his stupid spell.

“Did I frighten you in some way? You sound scared. Or, perhaps, anxious.” His voice is so pretty, damn it.

“D, all of the above…” you breathe, calming yourself by a large fraction. He laughs again and you can hear a muffled voice in the background.

“Talking to yourself now, kid? That’s new.” You recognize the voice as Lieutenant Hank. You snort.

“No, I’m just multitasking.” Connor replies to his partner sweetly and you hear a groan.

“I’m putting in my earbuds if you’re gonna yap to yourself like that.”

“Good idea, Lieutenant.” you can hear the smile in his voice.

You find courage sparking in your heart, enough to ask Connor a question.

“Why did you call, Connor?”

“I wanted to hear your voice.” He responds back fast, catching you off guard. Your brain falls on its ass and you scramble to reply.

“Don’t you have like… super memory that can replay things? Can’t you just remember how I sound — replay it over in your head?” The words come out in sputters, flustered and meek. He makes a soft, contented hum in agreement.

“It’s not the same.”

“Lord, Connor…” you’re holding your stomach now, trying to physically stop the jumps and bumps inside your gut.

“I am not a lord.” He quips, voice all smiles.

“I am refusing to believe you don’t know what I mean…”

More laughter and he coos, “You got me. ‘Twas just a jest, m’lady.”

“You are so cheesy.” You snort, leaning back into your mattress and staring blankly at the ceiling. If you were a cartoon you probably would have dumb little heart eyes right now.

“I don’t know about that…” you hear what you presume is his desk chair squeak as he moves, probably swiveling.

“Nah, you’re a dork. Admit it.” You giggle, closing your eyes and just listening to him. All ears for this stupidly attractive android.

“I will not confirm that for you. I do not believe I am socially awkward — the definition of dork. I have a very sophisticated social relations program that has only been expanded on since my deviancy.”

You snort again, “English, Connor.”

“I am speaking English. Plainly, in fact,” he pauses for a few beats, and the smile is again evident in his voice, “Would you like me to put it in layman’s terms for you?”

Cheeky ass. You chew on the inside of your cheek before relinquishing the flesh and responding.

“Knock yourself out.”

More laughter, “I don’t think that would be enjoyable. My self-preservation protocol won’t allow it, either. I checked.”

“You checked, huh?” You coo sweetly back into the phone, managing to sound breathy and soft, “Just for me?”

There’s a what you would call a loud pause. Connor doesn’t respond long enough that you even check to make sure the call is still connected. It is.

He clears his throat suddenly, voice soft, sincere, “J-just for you… yeah.”

“Good boy.” You find yourself saying. Then you smack your head with the heel of your palm — stupid! Cringe fills your gut and you squirm anxiously in your bed.

Another pause. You’re about to fish out a pregnancy test for how long this one takes because you’re pretty sure it’s a pregnant pause. You've almost passed away from embarrassment when he pipes up.

“I… am confused why I liked that so much. Why did you say that?”

You can’t say you’re stunned at his words, but you’re sure feeling something. You hastily make up an excuse.

“Because you remind me of a puppy! You have that kind of face, y’know?” You’re laughing albeit nervously as you let him process that.

“I’m not sure how I feel about that…” the android confesses and you laugh awkwardly, feeling a tad guilty. You hadn’t told him a complete lie, really…

“I meant it as a compliment! Who doesn’t like dogs?”

“Some people, but I am not one of them.” You visibly relax when you hear that smile in his voice again. Phew, thank god for small miracles. You did not want to explain the intricacies of the sexual connotations of the phrase ‘good boy’ to Connor. At least, not yet.

But one thing is for sure: Connor has a thing for praise. Might even have a praise kink if one of his many features included the ability to derive sexual pleasure, let alone have sex. You briefly wonder if he has the equipment to do the deed installed.

You jump when you hear your name soft through your phone’s speaker.

“Y-yeah?” You’re definitely blushing.

“I’m about to clock out… thanks for talking with me.” His voice is so warm, so thankful and sweet. You melt a little.

“Thank you for talking to me, too, Connor.” You murmur back. You hear him make that soft hum of contentment again, except this time he sounds a little dopey doing it.

“I’ll see you tonight.” He promises and you find yourself turning in your bed, smiling.

“See you tonight, detective.”

“Bye…” he says and you’re pretty sure you’re akin to melted chocolate right now.

“Bye, Connor…”

He doesn’t hang up, you both stay on the line and then you giggle.

“What?” He sounds almost reverent, but in a strange dreamy way. Curious and kind.

“Connor, you’re supposed to hang up.”

“Right. I will do that now. Bye…” he says your name and the call ends. You let your phone drop beside your head and let out a long sigh, coming down to Earth from what you can only define as heaven. Where the angel boy lived, perfectly pristine.

You needed to get ready… but you found your vision unfocusing; your eyes glazing over with heated thoughts invading your dumb, dumb mind. Connor’s face, his voice, even his hands flooded ever synapse — he spread like a virus in your mind and body. He turned your mind into mush and raised your body temperature.

You didn’t normally do this, usually you had more self control… but as you imagined Connor’s soft synthetic fingers tracing down your spine you couldn’t ignore the agonizing heat pooling in your lower belly. His voice caused your body to catch fire, burning hot at your core; you replayed your conversations over and over in your mind — your brain adapting, cutting and mixing his voice to say new things, things you wanted to desperately hear from him. Absolutely naughty, impure things.

Your hand slinked down your stomach and under the waistband of your panties until you found your wet core. You gasp, eyes snapping down to your hand as it retracts slowly for you to examine it. You’re absolutely fucking soaked — from tame flirting by a man you honestly don’t know enough about to feel this strongly about so fast.

But… you didn’t find it in you to care. Connor is so sweet, kind, and honestly more than worthy of your time. Your hand finds its place again, at your most sensitive epicenter. Another hand reaches up and cups one of your breasts, pinching your already taut nipple. Hot pants escaped your mouth, breathy and needing as you started to circle your clit before swiping at it. With a squeak of stimulation you snap your eyes shut, brows furrowing in focus as you worked yourself, thinking of Connor speaking sweet words in your ear and pretending your touch was his. It didn’t take long for you to unravel, moaning as your thighs quivered and toes curled. You road out your orgasm, everything muddy and distorted with pleasure as you opened your eyes and scanned your room.

“Fuck…” you breathed, your voice still heavy with lust. Slowly, you came back to yourself, the room refocusing. With a small, almost guilty sigh, you sat up, sitting on the edge of the bed.

You’ve never masturbated to a real life person before. You wondered about the moral ethics of doing so, feeling your stomach sinking lower and lower with every passing anxious thought. You had been so impulsive, masturbating to Connor like that. Did that count as objectifying him? Reducing him to just a means of pleasure for yourself… no, he was more than that to you.

You think.

No, you’re pretty sure.

Connor was… special to you, he didn’t just envoke sexual feelings from you. You wanted to know more about him, to grow to care for him.

So perhaps you will do just that.

…

The rain hadn’t stopped by the time you got to work. You had to pop the hood of your hoodie on and hug yourself as you braced the cool autumnal breeze and braved the downpour of rain to get inside the club. Once inside you made a beeline for the women’s dressing room to peel the wet fabric of your hoodie off.

“Hey!” A bubbly voice called from behind you, almost causing you to jump out of your skin mid-strip. Your head was caught in the hoodie temporarily, but then you finished, throwing it off and onto your section to the long counter that made up the vanity area. You saw your verbal attacker in the mirror behind you, your fellow dancer and coworker, an android named Hannah, but she went by Pearl here. Perfect ginger hair, green eyes, and pale, freckled skin. She had on her work clothes: a lacy black teddy with her nipples covered by heart-shaped pasties. You finally smiled at her, “Hey to you too, Pearl.”

Her LED was a soft blue as she moved over to sit on the counter, her legs dangling from it as she looked at you with interest, “I didn’t know if you would be at work today after last night.”

You squeezed the excess moisture from the rain that managed to invade your hair, annoyed because you had thought it was made up cutely before you left home. Then you glanced back up at the mirror, looking at Pearl.

“Nah, I’m okay. Honestly? I’ve had worse.” You unceremoniously point to your bruised throat, now rid of the makeup you’d painted to hide it earlier; it had come off with make up remover and soap in the shower. You had been thankful it wasn’t as sensitive as last night or this morning.

Pearl gasped at the bruises that kissed your skin, “Ow!”

“Yeah, ow is right.” You plop yourself down on your stool and place your purse on the counter, digging for your makeup bag in it.

“Also, hold up? You’ve had worse physical abuse before? Talk about yikes — I hope that was long ago!!” Her lips formed a pout of concern as she looked down at you, legs idly kicking as she studied you. Your eyes meet hers in a brief glance and you nod in agreement.

“Yeah, long ago.” You do not elaborate and pull out your bag full of cosmetics. More people file into the dressing room, causing a momentary respite from Pearl’s all-seeing eyes. A few other women comment on how you’re at work and you give similar responses out like candy on Halloween.

You were dressed in your attire for the night: a blue babydoll gown with lacy cups, much like Hannah’s, including nude colored pasties as well as a matching thong and short white heels. It was lingerie night, apparently. Other girls were clad in similar outfits — the dressing room turned into a sea of multicolored lacy tits and ass. Makeup application was a fast process, you spent more time covering up the bruises on your neck than you did your face — dreamy swaths of nude colors and shimmery angelic highlighter. Your lips were the color of a bunny’s tongue, perfectly soft pink. Satisfied with your appearance, you locked up your purse and clothing in your locker and made your way out into the fray.

It was still early, the music actually just turning on as you walked around, bored. There weren’t any patrons yet, and you found yourself watching the door so hard you don’t even realize your name is being called.

“Girl, oh my god, hey there — Earth to Magic!” An effeminate voice croons over your shoulder, fingers slinking around you to snap in your face. You jump like a cat then whip around and frown at him.

“Sunset, damn it! Don’t sneak up on me!”

The dark complected man frowned back, crossing his arms over his bare chest with a huff; a curl of his beautiful black hair bouncing onto his forehead with the motion, “I’ll have you know I did not sneak up on you this time — I was calling you, Magic! I called you at least a gazillion and one times. Your head is off in lala land, honey.”

Your eyes lurk back to the entrance, movement catching your attention. Not Connor. You relinquish your focus back to Sunset, who most definitely saw that. He grinned like the Cheshire Cat, “Ooo, expecting someone?”

You scoffed, crossing your arms as he relaxed his, “No! Well, maybe! Shit…”

He squealed in what you can only assume is glee, placing his hands on your shoulders and shaking you excitedly.

“Spill the beans, the tea, all the fucking groceries, honey!!”

You stabilize yourself by placing your hands on his chest, stopping his nonsensical shaking. Sunset’s dark, almost black eyes gleamed like two shiny onyx marbles at you — full of interest. You removed your hands from him and plucked his hands from your shoulders, one by one.

“Fine, but you cannot bother him…” you glance back at the entrance, “If he comes…”

“Girl, we just opened. Don’t get your panties in a wad because he wasn’t waiting at the door like a fucking dog.”

You sighed, “You have a point.”

Sunset nodded solemnly, hands on his hips, nodding, “I always do!”

You’re delusional to think you’ve escaped Sunset’s glittery clutches, as he jumps you with another question.

“Is he cute? What’s he look like? Is he bi? Maybe I can tease him, too!”

Thoughts flutter across your mind: Connor’s visage, his laughter, then a question that you honestly didn’t know. What is Connor’s sexuality… was he even capable of true sexual behavior? You assumed his original programming didn’t include sex and the nuances of sexuality… could he, did he download the information like a file off the internet. Click here for bisexuality! No, it has to be more complicated than that.

Then jealousy bubbles up as Sunset jabs you about teasing him. That’s when you realized something.

You didn’t want to share the detective.

You wanted him all for yourself.

“He’s a brunette… tall, brown eyes. White, I guess…” you begin, offering Sunset physical attributes of Connor. He raises a curious eyebrow.

“You guess? Do you think he’s mixed and white passing?”

You sigh, shaking your head, “No he looks white. But, he’s… well, he’s an android.”

Sunset blinks, taking in that information. He taps his lips with his pointer finger, “Hmm…”

“Hmm?” You feel defensive under Sunset’s gaze.

“Can he… reciprocate properly?”

“Excuse me?” Your voice comes out as a growl. Sunset looks sheepish, maybe even sorry.

“It’s just… the whole revolution and deviancy was just twoish years ago, right? Have they had enough time to develop enough of their psyche to have complicated relations - sexual or otherwise? I know androids can fuck, but can they feel — I don’t know — passion?”

You dropped your guard, mulling that over, turning over the information in your mind like a 3D object — you really bit down and chewed on it. Sunset brought up a good point: was it even ethical to play these games with Connor? Is that why you felt guilty after masturbating to him earlier? No, surely…

You’re pulled out of your thoughts by your name being called by your manager, “Magic! Come here for a sec, would you?”

“Yeah, coming!” You call over your shoulder, about to leave before you feel Sunset’s hand on your arm. Your eyes meet his, concern swimming in them.

“I don’t mean to rain on your parade, girlie-pop. Just… be careful, ok?”

You can only manage a tight, but sincere, smile. You nod and he sets you free to go to your manager.

Your manager, Dawn, was an older butch woman, heavy set and intimidating to those who didn’t know her. Deep down, she was a softie and absolutely spoiled her workers, whom she called her babies. Blonde hair was cropped short, close to her head and her eyes were a brilliant shimmering gray, akin to a smooth, wet stone you could pluck from a river. Dawn had a smart tablet in her hand, swiping down what you can only assume is a list, maybe opening inventory. She sees you approach and gives you a warm smile.

“Hey baby girl, how are you feeling after last night? Sure you’re up to riding in this god-forsaken rodeo?” Her voice is humorous, light, but there’s for sure some concern in there the comedy is masking. You nod, smiling.

“Yeah, I’m feeling good tonight. Don’t worry about me, Dawn.”

Your manager shakes her head, “That’s my job, baby. Now, if you’re sure you’re up for it, I have you scheduled as floor candy. Just have fun, no dancing tonight unless they shove a huge wad of cash in your face or something.”

You snort, internally cursing.

“I’ll set a five hundred minimum fee for tonight, then. For the private Magic experience.”

“Baby, raise it to a thousand at least, you got bills to pay… now get outta here and have fun!”

You giggle and take your leave.

Time passes and you find yourself hovering around the entrance, basically greeting patrons. You pray you’re not pulled away before Connor gets here. If… Connor gets here. You glance at the clock on the wall, the digital numbers conveying the time in bright white light: 10:12 pm. You nervously rolled your lip with your teeth. You wished you could have your cell out here, but where would you keep it? In your fucking thong strap? You sigh, turning to the rest of the floor when you hear your name, causing you to whip your head towards the sound so fast you might have whiplash.

Connor is there at the door, absolutely drenched and dripping wet from rain. You stare at him, daring yourself to pinch yourself. But you don’t have time as he approaches you with long, fast strides, shrugging off his sopping wet blazer, exposing his equally wet dress shirt that clung deliciously to his pale synthetic skin; you could even see the color through the fabric, you could see his nipples poking through.

“Hey…” He said, breathless and right in front of you. You force your eyes up, to his face, like the proper lady you are. You want to be cute, maybe even sexy, but all that comes out of your mouth is a mirrored, “Hey…”

The android smiled endearingly at you, his eyes crinkling and a dimple forming in his cheek. From this close you noticed subtle freckling in his skin… you marvel at him and he finally looks you over.

“What took you so long?” Your voice sounds like a whine. Your question is petulant; he has a life, just like you. He wasn’t attending to you hand and foot. Still, his eyes found yours again, his face apologetic and puppy-like. He was like a long lost puppy, drenched to the bone.

“Sorry, it was Sumo’s birthday. I should have mentioned that.” He chuckles softly, getting distracted by something again as he scans you over. Its dark in the corner you were hiding in by the entrance, but you’re almost certain he’s blushing that beautiful blue blood - thirium, it’s apparently called. The clubs sold drinks of it at the bar, but android patrons were not common, usually only the android workers ordered that stuff.

“Sumo?” You finally ask, and his eyes snap back to yours, having been traveling elsewhere. He nods, laughing, “Yeah, Lieutenant Hank’s dog. It was his birthday. I got him a doggy birthday cake… he really liked it.”

“That’s so cute, Connor. Are you made of marshmallows and rainbows, too?” You giggle, eyes twinkling.

“No… I’m unfortunately inedible.”

“Have you tested that out?” You croon almost immediately back at him and, yep, he’s for sure blushing — even harder now,

“I…” he looks down at you, something deep burning in his eyes. An unmistakable wanting, a need. Without a word, you take his hand, pulling him into a VIP room. He follows you wordlessly, his shoes squelching wetly behind you with each step. You lead him to the center of the couch cushions, pushing him with a gentle hand on his chest to sit. He compiles obediently, looking at you like you’re made of something precious. Gold, perhaps? Diamonds? He’s enraptured, pupils blown out and curious, seeking more of the stimulation only you can provide.

You reach out to him, your palm cupping his cheek, fingers brushing his face, one brushing the edge of his LED, which is spinning a fervent yellow. Your thumb rubs soothing circles in the flesh of his cheek.

“Can I…” his voice is so sweet, almost saccharine in your ears; he balls his fists, squeezing down before releasing them — he does this a few times as he musters up the courage to finish his sentence.

“Can I… touch you?” Connor asks. He sounds so innocent, so sweet. Your breath catches in your throat and he quickly adds, his voice turning soft, whispering, “Is that allowed? I don’t want to break a rule…”

Your hand slowly retreats from his cheek, leaving him with a silent plea in his eyes. That is, until you sit down on his sideways, turning to him, placing your hands on his shoulders and looking down into those deep, rich brown eyes. In the light of the VIP room, red, they gleaned a color akin to maroon. You carefully straddle him before sitting back down.

His face is so blue, even his ears, again, are not just dusted but burning with it. His breaths are shallow, measured, as slow. Each breath coming out in cool puffs that tickle your skin.

“You…” he gulps, his chest expanding visibly in front of you, “You haven’t answered my question…”

Now was the moment of choice: what were you going to do? Technically you weren’t supposed to let patrons touch you — no getting handsy and all that. But, you two were in a private room… and he was practically begging you. Then a thought occurred to you: was Connor a virgin? Did him being a virgin complicate things? You didn’t think so, he’s obviously been enthusiastically consenting to everything so far. You watch him in wonder as he gazes back up at you, sitting on the edge of the metaphorical ocean cliffside, waiting for the okay to take to the water.

Fuck it.

“Yes, Connor, you can touch me.”

You thought he would jump at the opportunity like a fish to water, swimming fast through the currents, but as he raised his quivering hands, he looked to you, uncertain but also drowning in what had to be lust.

“Where… do I start?” the synthetic angel speaks, his voice gilded and perfect in every way; his voice held a clear passion that caused you to melt a little inside. Blush dusted your cheeks as you let out a long breath to cool down. Then you asked with the softest, feather-light voice you could muster.

“What do you want to do?”

[pscottm]

Michigan lawmaker, who sponsored Holocaust remembrance proposal, compares her state to Nazi Germany | Nation/World | gazettextra.com

Republican state Rep. Gina Johnsen, who once sponsored a resolution to remember the "cruel atrocities" of the Holocaust, described Michigan as Nazi Germany, at a campaign event, and accused her political opponents of being "murderers," according to a recording obtained by The Detroit News.

Johnsen, a first-term legislator from Lake Odessa, made two separate references to Nazi Germany at a Sept. 28 get-out-the-vote rally, organized by the conservative organization Turning Point Action, and with Republican state House candidate Andy Shaver of Charlotte, according to audio recorded by someone who attended. The gathering took place inside a Baptist church in the Lansing area.

At one point during the discussion, Johnsen attempted to encourage people to become involved in the 2024 campaign, saying sacrificing personal time for the political cause would be worthwhile.

“I haven’t done a garden in a few years," Johnsen told the crowd. "You know why? Michigan is falling down into the sewer. We’re in desperate times. Nazi Germany. That’s where we are guys."

Then, later in the event, she argued in favor of church leaders endorsing candidates and speaking about their political preferences for Republicans "from the pulpit."

“We cannot be the churches that played the music louder while all the Jews were hauled off to concentration camps to be exterminated," Johnsen said. "Our babies are getting exterminated. Our population is going down. We have an agenda before us that we use all sorts of euphemistic terms (to describe) like, 'Oh, they're globalists.'

"They’re murderers. They are part of the anti-Christ spirit that hates humanity because humanity reflects what? God's glory.

Johnsen didn't respond to a request for a comment. And a Republican spokesman told The News she wouldn't be providing to a statement about the remarks. Shaver, who is a pastor himself, is challenging state Rep. Angela Witwer, D-Delta Township. Shaver also didn't respond to a request for comment.

In January 2023, Johnsen sponsored the resolution in the Michigan House to declare Jan. 27, 2023, as Holocaust Remembrance Day in Michigan.

"The Holocaust was the state-sponsored systematic persecution, execution and annihilation of European Jews by the Nazi regime and its allies between 1933 and 1945," Johnsen's resolution said. "This atrocity, of more than 6 million Jews, reduced the world’s Jewish population by one-third."

Asked about Johnsen's remarks, state Rep. Noah Arbit, D-West Bloomfield, who is Jewish, said Johnsen had previously visited the Zekelman Holocaust Center with a bipartisan delegation of lawmakers. Comparing Michigan to Nazi Germany was "a shocking insult to the memory of every single Jew murdered in the Holocaust," Arbit said.

"As a Jew, and as a human being, I am offended and appalled by Johnsen’s extremist remarks that are completely inappropriate for a state representative," Arbit said. "This extremist, white Christian nationalist ideology that dovetails with noxious antisemitism is exactly what Michigan voters can expect if the Republican Party retakes the majority in the state House next month."

Democrats currently hold a narrow 56-seat majority in the 110-member state House. Every position in the House will be on the ballot in the Nov. 5 election.

Johnsen was previously the director of the Michigan House of Prayer, a facility located across the street from the Michigan Capitol, according to her state House biography. The House of Prayer's website says it's a "state gathering place for prayer and worship."

In her speech on Sept. 28, Johnsen accused "liberal" churches of telling their congregations that "abortion is compassion" and of having voter guides sponsored by the United Auto Workers and Planned Parenthood in their buildings.

"That's the liberal church, guys," Johnsen said "And we're hiding under our chairs and our tables and our pulpits pretending like we're obeying the law. We're not obeying anything but our feel good antennas."

Johnsen didn't specify which liberal churches she was talking about but she mentioned them having "rainbows everywhere" and going into "inner city Lansing" and "inner city Detroit," according to the recording of her speeches.

"Everything is legal" for church leaders when it comes to politics except for "putting a yard sign with a candidate in the church property," Johnsen advised people at the Sept. 28 event.

Community Baptist Church Pastor Timothy Warren Jackson said he remembered the event that featured Johnsen taking place at his church but he was in and out of the facility while she was there. Jackson said didn't recall hearing the lawmaker talk about the Holocaust or Nazi Germany.

“I don’t know the reference of what she was talking about," Jackson said on Monday when read a transcript of Johnsen's comments.

Asked about Johnsen's speech, state Rep. Samantha Steckloff, D-Farmington Hills, who also is Jewish, didn't criticize her Republican colleague. Johnsen had family members who hid Jews during the Holocaust, Steckloff said.

"I don't know what her intentions were, but I've become close with Rep. Johnsen and she's been a huge ally of the Jewish people," Steckloff said.

[maacsatara]

Storytelling Techniques in Game Design: Crafting Immersive Narratives

Storytelling in game design is a powerful tool that transforms a game from a mere series of actions into an engaging and immersive experience. A well-crafted narrative can captivate players, evoke emotions, and create memorable journeys. Unlike traditional storytelling mediums like books or films, video games offer an interactive element, allowing players to influence the story's outcome through their choices and actions. This interactivity gives rise to unique storytelling techniques tailored specifically for games. For those looking to master these techniques, studying at a reputable game design institute in Pune can provide valuable insights and hands-on experience. This article explores various storytelling techniques in game design and how they contribute to creating compelling narratives.

1. **Environmental Storytelling**

Environmental storytelling uses the game world itself to convey the narrative. Instead of relying on explicit dialogue or cutscenes, the story is told through the environment's details—such as objects, architecture, weather, and lighting. Players piece together the story by exploring the world and observing these clues, making them active participants in the storytelling process.

**Examples:**

- In *Bioshock*, the ruined underwater city of Rapture tells a story of its rise and fall through the remnants of its art deco architecture, propaganda posters, and audio diaries scattered throughout the environment.

- *Dark Souls* and its sequels utilize environmental storytelling extensively. From the decaying castles to the placement of enemies and items, every detail in these games adds to the world’s lore and narrative without direct exposition.

Environmental storytelling can enhance immersion by making players feel like detectives uncovering the world’s secrets, leading to a deeper connection with the game world.

2. **Branching Narratives and Player Choice**

Branching narratives allow players to make choices that affect the story's direction and outcome. This technique provides a sense of agency, making players feel that their decisions genuinely impact the game world. Branching narratives can range from minor choices that affect a single dialogue exchange to major decisions that alter the entire storyline or ending.

**Examples:**

- *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt* is renowned for its branching narratives, where choices made by the player can affect the fate of entire kingdoms, lead to different endings, or change the relationships with various characters.

- *Detroit: Become Human* is built entirely around player choice, offering multiple branching paths and outcomes. The game tracks players’ decisions meticulously, providing a unique experience with every playthrough.

However, crafting branching narratives can be complex and requires careful design to avoid narrative dissonance, where players’ choices feel inconsequential or disconnected from the story.

3. **Emergent Storytelling**

Emergent storytelling is not pre-scripted but arises from the game mechanics and player interactions. It involves creating a sandbox environment where players can create their own stories through gameplay. The narrative emerges from the unique ways players interact with the world, characters, and systems within the game.

**Examples:**

- *The Sims* series is a prime example of emergent storytelling. Players control the lives of their Sims, creating stories based on their actions, choices, and interactions. There is no fixed narrative; instead, the story emerges from gameplay.

- *Minecraft* allows players to explore, build, and interact with the world in countless ways. Each player’s experience is unique, resulting in personalized stories that are shaped by their creativity and interactions with the game world.

Emergent storytelling offers limitless possibilities, as players can craft stories that resonate with their unique playstyle and imagination.

4. **Cutscenes and Cinematics**

Cutscenes and cinematics are non-interactive sequences that convey key story moments, character development, or dramatic events. While cutscenes are more akin to traditional storytelling methods, they remain a powerful tool for delivering impactful narrative elements.

**Examples:**

- *Final Fantasy* games are known for their elaborate cutscenes, which provide crucial plot points, character introductions, and emotional moments that drive the story forward.

- *The Last of Us* utilizes cutscenes to build deep emotional connections with characters, conveying the emotional weight of the story through highly cinematic sequences.

Although cutscenes can provide clarity and narrative depth, over-reliance on them can disrupt immersion. Balancing them with interactive gameplay is essential to maintain engagement.

5. **Narrative-Driven Gameplay Mechanics**

Some games integrate storytelling directly into gameplay mechanics, where the mechanics themselves serve as a narrative device. These mechanics reinforce the story, creating a seamless blend of gameplay and narrative.

**Examples:**

- In *Papers, Please*, players take on the role of a border checkpoint officer in a fictional dystopian country. The gameplay mechanics of checking passports, verifying information, and deciding whom to let through become a storytelling tool that reflects the ethical dilemmas and oppressive nature of the regime.

- *Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons* uses its unique control scheme to tell its story. Players control two brothers with separate analog sticks, and the game’s mechanics mirror their bond and cooperation. This design choice adds emotional weight to the narrative.

By aligning gameplay mechanics with narrative themes, designers can create a more cohesive and emotionally resonant experience.

6. **Dialogue Systems and Character Development**

Dialogue systems are fundamental in games with rich narratives, allowing for character development and player interaction with the story. Well-written dialogue can reveal character motivations, build relationships, and provide context for the world.

**Examples:**

- *Mass Effect* series utilizes a dialogue wheel that allows players to make choices that affect their relationships with other characters and the outcome of the story.

- In *Disco Elysium*, the dialogue system is the core gameplay mechanic. The protagonist’s skills serve as separate personalities that influence dialogue choices, creating deep character development and branching narrative paths.

Dialogue systems empower players to engage with the story actively, making them feel more connected to the characters and world.

7. **Audio and Music as Storytelling Tools**

Audio design and music are often overlooked yet powerful storytelling tools in game design. Sound effects, ambient sounds, and music can evoke emotions, build tension, and enhance the atmosphere.

**Examples:**

- In *Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice*, audio plays a crucial role in storytelling. The game uses binaural audio to create an immersive experience, reflecting the protagonist’s psychological state and enhancing the narrative.

- *Journey* uses dynamic music that adapts to the player’s actions, creating an emotional resonance that complements the visual storytelling.

Audio and music can subtly influence how players perceive and experience the narrative, adding layers of meaning without using words.

Conclusion

Storytelling in game design is a multifaceted art that combines environmental storytelling, player choice, emergent narratives, cutscenes, gameplay mechanics, dialogue systems, and audio design. Each technique contributes to crafting immersive and memorable experiences that resonate with players on emotional and intellectual levels. As games continue to evolve as a storytelling medium, designers have more tools and techniques to create narratives that push the boundaries of interactivity and engagement, transforming players from passive spectators to active participants in the story. Training at a renowned institution like MAAC Academy can provide aspiring game designers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this dynamic field.

[starryvoice]

The Fandoms that I was in from what I remember since I started my fandom journey

I think it is better that I do this post first for you guys to know what I been into for the past like 10+ years that I been into fandoms since I was 8 years old to now.

IN MY YOUNGER YEARS:

The Sonic Fandom (That first that sticks to me)

Those Rise of Tangled Brave Dragons Fandom (ON Wattpad)

Undertale (Yes I was those Frisk X Sans Shipper)

Five Nights at Freddy's (Do you guys still remember Vincent? Like the First Name some of you guys named the Purple Guy before William Afton XD) (I am still in this fandom until now because of the theories)

The Old Creepypasta Era

Highschool DXD

Kuroshitsuji

The Gamer Era (when the gamers are just only doing Let's plays)

The Story Time Era

The Old Yaoi Era (This is before BL was as popular as it is now) (With the likes of Sekaiichi Hatsukoi, Super Lovers, and Love Stage)

IN MY TEEN YEARS:

The Nitro Chiral Games (Yes the makers of DMMD, TNC, Sweet Pool, Lamento, and Slow Damage) (Still somewhat in this fandom)

Parade Games (The Makers of No, Thank you!!!, Room no.9 and Lykt)

Yuri on Ice

Dream Daddy

South Park

Detroit: Become Human

Good Omens

Hetalia (I was very late when I got into Hetalia stuff, so I never saw the horrors of the old times with the Shipping Wars or other stuff)

Boku no Hero Academia

Ace Attorney

Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun

Pokemon (I only watch the XY, Sun & Moon and Journeys anime)

Genshin Impact (FTP gamer in Genshin, but I stopped after Sumeru is still updating)

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom

TO MY YOUNG ADULT LIFE:

Our Life: Beginnings & Always

D&D (I have been around since the pandemic with D&D Streamers, but got to play under a year ago) (Weirdly enough, I only know the characters of Baldur's Gate 3, but not the story XD)

Some Manwha Fandoms

Some Isakai Fandoms

The ASMR/Audio Stories Fandoms (The Likes of CardlinAudio and YuuriVoice) (CURRENTLY)

[lboogie1906]

Jesse Wesley Williams (August 5, 1981) is an actor, director, producer, and activist. He portrayed Dr. Jackson Avery on the series Grey’s Anatomy and has appeared in the films The Cabin in the Woods, The Butler, and Band Aid. He provided voice acting and motion capture for Markus in Detroit: Become Human.

He was born in Chicago to Johanna Chase, a professional potter, and Reginald Williams.

He graduated from Temple University with a double major in African American Studies and Film and Media Arts. He taught high school in the Philadelphia public school system for six years: teaching American Studies, African Studies, and English.

He began to study acting and was chosen to participate in the New York Actors Showcase presented by ABC Television, one of 14 actors chosen from among over 800 individuals who auditioned. He has appeared in several television series, films, and theatre productions. He established a production company, farWord Inc.

A fan campaign was organized to try to influence film executives to cast him in the role of Finnick Odair in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. This news resulted in some Hunger Games fans protesting casting decisions made by the film executives.

He wrote an opinion piece for CNN that analyzed the film Django Unchained. He narrated the audio version of the book The Bane Chronicles: What Really Happened In Peru.

He married Aryn Drake-Lee (2012-20). They have two children. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence