#doing my best to make him feel authentic but he puts me through the wringer each time

[pain-in-the-butler]

Work has once again crushed my plans to be diligent with Coattails but your girl will still do her best to have it finished before August 🫡 it’s looking rough out here tho, thanks for your patience

[wilhelmjfink]

The Great Divide - Chapter 14

A/N: Sometimes I look back at the one smut piece that I’ve written and see that it has 300+ notes and then I remember this series and how there’s like 4 of us? Is it even worth it? But hey if I haven’t mentioned it lately, the like handful of you that are here are the fuckin’ best, man. I never ever in a million years would’ve thought I would ever share my fanfics anywhere at aLL EVER SO like that there’s other people that just read it and liked it?? Shit’s fuckin’ wild. Sorry, I’m drunk. Got me right in the feels. This one is LONG!

But forreal. Thanks for reading xoxoxo

“You can’t just waltz through the fuckin’ gates, pick out some random broad and just leave with her...”

Daryl eyed Warner where he sat in the grass, still tied up and unable to move, watching Daryl and his friends begin to load up their vehicles and prepare for the run. At least he was outside and able to get some fresh air. Daryl still had to violently stifle the urge to beat the shit out of him right then and there.

“’n why the hell not?”

Warner developed an attitude as if they were supposed to just know the rules; like it was a waste of his time having to explain it to them. And that was one thing the group noted of him: that he often went from one personality to the other, though there was not necessarily a dramatic difference between the personas inside of him. “Well, for one, they’ll shoot you on sight,” Warner explained flatly. His tone was getting sharper, more snarky -- Daryl was considerably proud of himself for not grabbing him by the neck and strangling the life out of him. It went unmentioned, but the others were as well.

And though Warner had learned well enough now to not poke the bear — Daryl, of course, being the bear — he genuinely offered up all the information he knew without issue, cooperating entirely likely in hopes of being freed from the ropes around his wrists and ankles. “But if you get in there, and you go get to the trade, and you just... instantly pick out the girl, they’re gonna know something’s up — ”

Rick interrupted: “So we’ll play it off -- hang around for a little bit first.”

With a slow shake of his head, Warner disagreed. No... just -- just trust me when I say that she will not last very long there. Ones like her, they -- ”

“Why do they even care?”

Warner narrowed his eyes, clearly irritated at being interrupted yet again. “That’s what I’m trying to tell you, if you would let me finish.”

Daryl glared at him and Rick remained silent, a wordless request to continue.

“The big slave trade always comes right after this big event they call The Reaping,” he explained, drawing the attention of the all four that were around within earshot loading the truck. Even before he’d told them what The Reaping was, the name alone sounded bad, and not a single one of them had a good feeling about it. “It’s where they volunteer another slave to fight against one of Asher’s best soldiers.”

Rick and Daryl exchanged glances, having remembered Warner briefly mentioning this earlier, but they’d blown over it at the suggestion of going to the slave trade as it seemed to be the easiest way to get inside The Divide. And Warner seemed to switch personalities, yet again -- this one a bit darker than the others, in the very least. 

“But the thing is,” he continued lowly, as if he was telling a ghost story around a fire, “it’s never as random as they intend it to be. The oldest slave there — some old bag named Hilda or something — she always has to choose someone to fight. And there’s an agreement amongst the slaves: that she always chooses the newest addition.” He looked back and forth between the two men looming over him as they stared down at him with hooded eyes, their expressions vague, waiting impatiently for him to make his point though they undoubtedly knew where he was going.

“Alright,” Rick pushed. “And?”

“And if your girl was the newest capture, then fuckin’... Linda or whatever offered her up to fight.”

“Why are ya just tellin’ us about this now?” Daryl demanded in response, the only reasonable response that made sense inside his head at that moment was anger that he hadn’t been told earlier, as if that would make a difference. 

And he only got angrier when Warner merely shrugged. “Didn’t think about it until just now.”

Fighting the fire inside of his veins, Daryl’s fists clenched at his sides while he  looked over to Rick in search of answers, while also simply refusing to believe that Warner’s words were entirely true. The way that he told it, as if he was narrating a play with the way those other personas rotated who was in charge -- it was almost too practiced. There had to be a way to get into The Divide, especially if they had Warner there with them.

After a moment of silence while they all contemplated his words, Daryl spun back around toward the stranger and took a threatening step closer to him, pulse racing, breath huffing. “Listen: I don’t care if I gotta skin ya and wear ya like a god damn hat to get in. You’re gonna get us where we need to be if it’s the last fuckin’ thing ya ever do. So cut the bullshit and stop dickin’ around!”

“It’s not bullshit,” Warner replied defensively. He would’ve held up his hands in surrender if they weren’t bound together at the wrists.  Every so often, a side of Daryl broke through the composed persona Rick had him putting on for his own good, and it was not very comforting for Warner. “It’s the truth -- it’s all truth.”

“Good. And ya better dig deep inside that head’a yours and figure out every truth ya wanna say to us right here, right now, ‘cause if we get there ‘n ya suddenly remember somethin’ relevant, I’m gonna put ya threw the god damn wringer ‘n y’all are gonna wish you was dead. Are we clear?”

Warner swallowed hard, struggling to remain stoic in response. “I’ve got nothing else for you.”

“For your sake, I hope ya ain’t lyin’.” Daryl clearly didn’t believe him still, but the others weren’t entirely convinced either. But considering it was the only lead they had, they knew they needed to at least take a shot because at that point, something was better than nothing.

Their plan was to go back to the original spot where Riley’d been when she disappeared — in the outskirts of the woods with the dead soldier on display as a checkpoint. They were going to strip him of his clothing and, taking into account the corpses stature and disregarding it’s abnormal, alarming outer appearance, Carol volunteered to dawn herself in the armor and join Warner in returning to the The Divide during the trade with Glenn and Michonne both posted up on adjacent buildings, with their sniper rifles trained on Warner should he decide to pull any subterfuge. Tara, Aaron, Abraham and Michonne would on standby incase things got out of hand. The less obvious it was that Carol was out too of the ordinary, the better.

If Warner was actually correct, and they could make it to witness the fight between the slave and the designated soldier, if it really was Riley, that would be even better. “We’ll leave at sunrise,” Rick said, slamming the doors of the van shut. “We’ll stop at the Hampton, grab the armor, and head north from there.”

“Why so soon?” Warner asked from where he sat on the curb of the road. Not even particularly malicious, either; he sounded genuinely apprehensive. “The trade may not even be that soon. It’s usually a week after the -- ”

“Because, if she really did get chosen for that ‘Reaping’, we wanna be there incase it goes wrong.”

“If it goes wrong, you’re better off staying out of it.” Warner looked between the group above him, finally a look of authentic concern on his features, though Daryl still wouldn’t believe it. It still took every bit of self control he was harboring to not beat him mercilessly right then and  there. “There are one-hundred-and-thirty-six heavily armed Slavemasters at The Divide,” he continued, “and that’s just the main county. And no offense, but the six or seven of you guys won’t win that battle.”

Rick cocked his head in careful consideration before narrowing his eyes, a dark but familiar vengeful expression blanketing his face. “Don’t you worry about that,” he said lowly. “We’ll be just fine. Let us worry about that part.”

The drive was long and uneventful.

Warner’s directions matched the routes on the map and he sat in the back seat of the van, hands tied together still, to which he commented on several times during the trip only to be ignored.

“There’s a long underground tunnel,” he told them, alternating between staring out the window at the blur of trees and derelict buildings and his fallen comrades armor that lay stacked on the leather seat next to him, “like the Lincoln tunnel was went in and out of New York City years ago.”

“Is it clear?” Rick asked.

“Of walkers, yeah. But it’s guarded pretty heavily.”

Him and Daryl exchanged another silent glance. “How heavy is pretty heavy?”

Warner was aloof now, not tuned into the conversation and seemingly uninterested as he shrugged. “That depends on what you think you can handle.”

Rick knew that Daryl was fuming before he even looked over at him, his friend sitting next to him with narrowed eyes and audibly gritting teeth, but wordlessly a look out of the corner of Rick’s eye made him relax. Warner’s game seemed to be just that: offering insight, then shrugging it off and playing dumb. Rick was the one that cracked him in the first place; Daryl knew it was in his best interest to just listen as opposed to act.

Glancing up in the rearview mirror, Rick made sure the second vehicle was still in tow behind him, Rosita, Tara and Abraham keeping up and the third with Michonne, Aaron and Glenn close behind.

When he turned back around, focusing again on the road ahead of them, his foot went robotically to the brak at the sight of a motorcycle gang down the route, throwing a hand outside of his window to signal to the others behind to slow down as well. Ultimately, the gang roared up to them with little consideration to the racket they were making and some even left their bikes idling while they waiting for Rick and his group to exit the vehicles.

The leader was a stocky older man — not the weak and helpless kind of older, either; he had tattoos covering every inch of exposed skin they could see and his silver hair was greased back over his head, the sheen matching the chains that decorated his leather vest. He smiled, showing his yellow-stained teeth, and killed the switch on his bike. Rick had a hunch that they might’ve been related to Warner somehow, but the man spoke up from the backseat without even being prompted to confess.

“Hey!” Warner called out and Daryl stepped out of the van cautiously. “That’s Six — that’s my group — let me outta here, I can talk to them!”

Daryl hesitantly looked to Rick for confirmation and when he gave him a stiff nod in return, Daryl leaned into the back seat and grasped onto Warner’s dirty collar and just about dragged him from the vehicle. He stumbled out onto the pavement below, struggling with his bound limbs, but managed to push himself to his feet clumsily, trying to compose himself infront of his old comrades.

“Well, shit, looky here, boys! It’s fuckin’ Warner!” The man in front howled, eliciting a rumble of laughter and hoots from the gang behind him. “We was so sure that new girl you caught had killed ya, left ya for dead.”

It seemed almost too easy -- they knew instantly he was talking about Riley. It only made sense with how quickly they’d found him after her disappearance, right? Warner’s eyes were wide at the remark, looking like a deer in headlights. Daryl stepped forward, confidence wavering at the sight even though he was sure they were his crowd of people; they were not nice men and if they were anywhere as bad as Warner had been describing them as, he needed to tread lightly.

“That new girl,” he tried to remain stoic as to not show any emotional attachment and weakness though he was sure he’d failed. “She alive?”

“Alive?” Six grinned more to himself as he contemplated an answer and Daryl had to remind himself once again that these were fucked up people and that his answer was more than likely not true, whatever it may be. But he still needed to listen and, for fuck’s sake, be cautious.

Though, he was very happy to hear the answer Six gave. “She’s doin’ just fine. Real nice, actually. Feisty thing. She’s goin’ up in the Reaping tonight in the Pit — man, I can’t wait to see that broad swingin’.”

That confirmed their fears that she was the one selected to fight one of the toughest soldiers in the Divide that night. Daryl’s last few days had seemed like nothing but sadness and the constant struggle to keep a level head. And he’s accepted that they were already outnumbered at that moment, reminding him to remain calm. It was likely the only chance they were going to get. And luckily, Six continued before he could lash out even if he wanted to. “But never mind that — Warner! Where the hell ya been, man? Pit’s been searchin’ everywhere for you!”

His voice was dripping with smarmy sarcasm and he was clearly less than impressed with Warner’s appearance, though the sinister smile still haunted his features. There was nothing behind his face, a shallow mask the only thing that they could see before them.

“Well, uh... I — “

“Oh, ‘n shit, before I forget...” Six reached around his belt, searching for something in particular as he muttered to himself and both Rick and Daryl watched curiously by the sidelines, attentive to his every move in anticipation of what might happen next. “I have a message from Asher for ya...”

Warner’s eyes widened and he through a fleeting glance over his shoulder like he was searching for something or someone, afraid of being watched or tricked. “Asher? For me?” Daryl’s crossbow was tight in his grasp and he was feeling particularly trigger happy.

“Yeah... what was it? Oh, that’s right!” In the blink of an eye he’d unholstered a .357, cocking the hammer back and pulling the trigger in one swift motion that sent a bullet right between Warner’s eyes. He fell like a bag of sand, eyes still opened, blood pouring from the circular wound just above the bridge of his nose.

Silence.

Daryl and Rick both visibly flinched at the sudden action, neither having expected that response out of the strangers and only reinforcing the fear in their bodies and reminding them once more to be abnormally cautious and wary around them. 

Six chuckled. Dary’s blood was boiling beneath his skin. He was furious — he was fucking livid. Even more so because he knew that, for his own safety and the safety of his friends, there wasn’t a mother fucking thing he could do about it but stand there and stare.

The one fucking piece of the puzzle that Daryl had  that held any sort of possibility of leading him to Riley and the one fucking thing that gave him a glimmer of hope that he could reach her again. The one frayed, narrow thread that connected him to his girl that he was grasping onto for dear life... it was laying dead at his fucking feet.

It’s Fallout. Thanks for playing everyone. It’s the Fallout 3 DLC The Pitt. *flips table* 

[thefreshfinds]

BROOKLYN UNITY FEST:

There is strength in numbers and the Brooklyn Unity Fest went ahead to prove that theory in their 8th annual event. If someone were to question "Where Brooklyn at?" the proof would be front and center. Ultimately the Brooklyn Unity Fest gave back to its community in a major way!

Aside from its free giveaway on Summer Jam tickets, bikes and t-shirts — there was also a Fabolous Way 3 Point Contest and Stomp the Violence Dance Contest.

From the basketball courts, vendors, face painting, multiple stages and even a bouncy house — the festival made sure to bask in its pride.

Overall, everyone was very accepting. Once the performers went onstage their was a common ground shared between the younger and older generation.

Not only were their crowds of kids doing the Stanky Leg, but there was all smiles and a fascination towards the new age sound. Many of the artists recieved new fans but their main focus was giving their all in the name of hip-hop. The genre has taken them to new heights and for that matter they encourage others to follow their dreams. In a word, there was no other place that I wanted to be! The Brooklyn Unity Fest had great vibes. No wonder Brooklyn is the Most Thorough Borough! Their community is willing to give a lending hand if needed be.

Although I wasn't able to interview all of the performers, here are some brilliant creatives that I had an opportunity to speak with:

1. MARLEE HENDRIX: Known for being authentically dope, Mr. 70's cared to elaborate not only through his super fly assemble of jet-black boots (with flowers on the heel) fedora and lime green pants — but also through his genre-defying style of soul and hip-hop. At most, Marlee's palette for music brings his sound to life but what drives it even further are the artist that he's moved by. As said by Hendrix, the Temptations (and even Eminem) inspire him because of the different things they bring to the table. "Music is in my bones." Hendrix says.

INSTAGRAM: @marleehendrix

MUSIC LINK: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCg05CAoXgpKWMbv9bDSRIJQ?itct=CBoQ6p4EIhMI86S32v7g4gIVbYacCh0JNQ0h&csn=dGP_XPKQEoPR8wSt94XwAw&wlfg=true

2. SOULJIASPAIDE and EVELINASOWAVY: Two who share a bloodline, Souljiaspaide and Evelinasowavy do it to perfection. Even when they've been through the wringer, they're above it all and venture into money missions. Starting off her music journey when her mom bought a computer, Souljiaspaide began to record her own songs. Then as time passed, Evelinasowavy came in and did a solid 16 which left Souljiaspaide in awe. "I didn't even know she could rap." Likewise they share a love for hip-hop. For them it's everything and it all comes down to Tupac because he's an artist who educates. With this in mind, they want upcoming artist to stay positive. "Don't get annoyed," Evelinasowavy says. "It can happen. Don't let anything get in your way." Souljiaspaide adds.

INSTAGRAM(S): @souljiaspaidedwa + @evelinasowavy

MUSIC LINK:

A) SOULJIASPAIDE: https://soundcloud.com/souljaspaide

B) EVELINA: https://soundcloud.com/evelinamusic

3. D.CHAMBERZ and D.MCCRO: D.Chamberz and D.MCCRO wear a lot of hats in the music industry. While D.Chamberz brings the ruthless bars, D.MCCRO makes the soundscape so D.Chamberz can freely express himself. On a whole, D.Chamberz gained something from hip-hop and it helped him control his emotions. He puts his pen to the pad and works with a music group whereas D.MCCRO works in the hottest studios in New York. He is an engineer and producer. Motivated by money, both keep a green thumb. They’ve got their Benjamin’s aligned,

INSTAGRAM(S): @dchamberzciw + @iamdmccro_ondatrack

MUSIC LINK:

A) D.CHAMBERZ: https://linktr.ee/dchamberzciw

4. DATWINPRINCE: Swagful with the drip on his neck and wrist — DATWINPRINCE rode his own wave at the festival. As he gave the crowd a boost of energy when he performed "Drip 3X" DATWINPRINCE gleamed from ear-to-ear because it really just comes easy. Off the rip, DATWINPRINCE identifies as a professional Milly Rocker, dedicated singer and rapper. Still, the grind never stops. Every year he pushes even harder because it's all just preparation and practice. Good music goes a long way, "It made me realize I had a way to express the things I felt, but was always scared to say." DATWINPRINCE says. In the same way he is the voice for those who feel the same. The dope vibes never end. *Make sure to check out his latest single, "DRIP3X", it's on all streaming platforms.*

INSTAGRAM: @datwinprince

MUSIC LINK: https://ampl.ink/dbPxp

5. JX and BIG DAWG K: Real recognizes real & when I spoke to them I just knew they were it. Even though the two exinguish the blaze in their 16's alone, they create a mine field when facing their competitors. As an outsider, I could sense the energy they both share and I've got to say it's very inspiring. At just 9 years old JX was writing and so the pen manifested them into rhymes. Even at a young the first song he sung was"Hip-Hop Hurray." But JX hopes that his music inspires and encourages others to be themselves. In the same way Big Dawg K wants his music to say that dreams are achievable. "If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything." Middle school was where his music journey started and for the MC, when he's onstage it's another day in the office. On the other hand, JX says to himself "let's go kill it". However they both just aim to have fun. Expect a mixtape from JX on DatPiff in July. For now check out Big Dawg K's album, Soul Food (on all streaming platforms) and JX's video "730 Freestyle" on Worldstar.

INSTAGRAM(S):

@therealjx + @bigdawgk_fnf

MUSIC LINKS:

A) JX: https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=kTWP_mVkESg

B) BIG DAWG K: https://snd.click/SSNCTWI

6. ZOE E ROSEGOLD: A 9-to-5 chick with a ride-or-die soul, Zoe stands for all the women in her sound. As she test all of the genre-elements, Zoe makes sure that her music is for self-enjoyment. Before she gets onstage, the star plans to deliver a message. However she really leaves it up to God. Aside from herself, she's really moved by the rap game because it's now given women a turn to dominate! Even though she just started her journey a year ago, music has always had a place in her heart. "I went to school and graduated with my nursing degree but the music just kept caling." she says. while you're on the road listen to her single, "Coke Music". It defines what her sound does to you.

INSTAGRAM: @officialzoeenyc

MUSIC LINK: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/zoeerosegold/zoe-e-rose-gold-ii

7. FEE DOLLAZ: With swag on a mf'ing 1000, Fee Dollaz rap style goes untouched. She's really her best self on and off the stage so it's safe to say that she's going places. Although she's from D.C, the rap star felt right at home when entering the Greater New York. Hip-hop has always been a passion of hers and when she says she is tired of a 9-to-5, many "100" emojis go up in favor. Likewise, hip-hop for Fee is bouncy, fun and real. Expect a 90's twist in her sound along some personable rhymes. Her message to the upcoming artist is to be you and follow your dreams. Make sure to bump "Set it Off" on the road. But the best is yet to come! Stay tuned for her album "World of My Own."

INSTAGRAM: @feedollaz

MUSIC LINK: http://hyperurl.co/pwtl9q

8. LIVELIKEDAVIS: The epitome of the fire emoji, LIVELIKEDAVIS brings the flame in 2019 and for many years to come. An avid fan of his, it was only right to tell him how amazing "Choppa For Advice" was but what I came to learn is that LIVELIKEDAVIS has been getting spins from the DJ off the rip. LIVELIKEDAVIS has been pursuing music since he was 13 years old but it really got far once he blew up on Vine in 2013. LIVELIKEDAVIS says that hip-hop is for self-expression and allows one to put it all on the table. But what inspires him the most is hip-hop's ability to paint a vivid picture of the artist's backstory. His advice for all upcoming artist is to stay constistent and to never listen to anyone but yourself. Take his word for it. LIVELIKEDAVIS plans on releasing a project soon. My question is: Will the fans get to hear a Lil Tjay feature? Maybe so. Go and stream “BEYBLADE” now. It’s available on all platforms

INSTAGRAM: @livelikedavis

MUSIC LINK: https://ffm.to/qm7v17k

9. SANTOS: Santos has a larger than life personality. Not only does he carry the same influential power that music does, but he also has an business man mentality, because he’s about his business, man. Starting off with his own marketing company, Santos was blessed with the opportunity to showcase his talents to BET. In turn, Santos shined through the lights and now is apart of the show, Hustle in Brooklyn. Besides this Santos also has his own record label. When he scouts out for talent, they must have a vision and ambition. Really it just shows that they’re ten toes down for the long haul. Santos list women and his mother as personal inspirations. On the road Santos likes to shuffle between 50 Cent, Jay-Z, 2Pac and Biggie. His word of advice to any upcoming artist is to spend the same amount of money you would on Jordan’s on an LLC. If you can’t invest in yourself how do you expect for others to?

INSTAGRAM: @tosmoney

[azlyrics85]

The life of Pete Doherty through 10 of his best lyrics

There’s not a whole lot about Pete Doherty that hasn’t been bastardised in a single shape or every other. certainly a controversial discern inside the rock ‘n’ roll scene of the ’00s, one thing that has always been pure approximately Doherty (no, now not that) is his entire immersion in his paintings, specifically the act of writing lyrics. underneath, we’ve picked out ten of our favourites as a reminder that underneath the tabloid headlines, there’s some serious expertise. AZlyrics

Doherty, the son of a army family, grew up inside the uk and Europe’s navy barracks. Floating around the grounds, Doherty discovered solace in the written word and soon commenced composing his personal poetry. At age eleven, he picked up a guitar, and the arena seemed to click on for the clearly charismatic Doherty. attaining 11 GCSE’s with seven at A* showcased that Doherty become a sincerely gifted child. but it might take him assembly his songwriting counterpart for his skills to be surely unearthed.  assembly Carl Barat is absolutely the moment that Doherty’s adventure to stardom commenced. starting off The Libertines in 1997, the band cultivated a guerilla following that only reached mainstream interest with the band’s launch of their 2002 debut, Up The Bracket. regrettably, it become right here that matters started out to awry for the musician as his escalating drug habit had begun to cause rifts within the organization and, particularly, Barat himself. In 2003, Doherty changed into jailed for burgling Barat’s flat; it might begin the chain of activities that could see Doherty yo-yo within the organization alongside swirling heroin and crack dependancy. It marked a unhappy time in British rock music. Doherty turned into in large part championed as one of the greatest songwriters Britain had produced in a generation. not due to the fact Oasis had a band amassed up this type of cultural impact in any such brief time. As Noel Gallagher as soon as placed it: “If Oasis changed into the sound of the council property making a song its coronary heart out, The Libertines had been the tramps behind the dumpster.” The Libertines formally break up after their 2d self-titled album, and Doherty sought pastures new, turning his romantic poetical stylings to a band of his personal, Babyshambles. The organization, nonetheless plagued through Doherty’s drug addiction and now his non-stop positioning inside the tabloid press, as a result of his relationship with twiglet Kate Moss, struggled to in shape the depth of The Libertines upward push to reputation but nonetheless delivered a few classic songs to boot. happily, unlike many others, this story has a satisfied finishing. Doherty quickly found sobriety, in some shape or every other, and has moved to the seaside with his antique buddy Carl Barat. as well as enacting their very own desires of Albion, the duo also got the vintage band returned together and have been relentlessly visiting pre-COVID. The duo even have an idyllic bed and breakfast in Margate called The Albion Rooms, that's a ought to for any fan. That’s all well and appropriate, however the iconic figure of Pete Doherty will always loom largest in his songs. thru his lyrics, Doherty became the archetypal starry-eyed poet, the romantic trapped in a rock celebrity shell, and he converted the British rock scene along with his style. underneath, we’ve got the evidence. Pete Doherty’s 10 satisfactory lyrics: ‘music when The lighting fixtures go out’ “Is it merciless or kind no longer to speak my mind and to misinform you rather than hurt you?” whilst you think about a top notch Pete Doherty lyric, this is likely the primary place you’ll land, so it feels only proper that it must be the first on our list too. A touching refrain built within one of the band’s greater lilting numbers, ‘music when The lighting fixtures exit’ is ready as ordinary a Doherty music as you will locate. Wrapped up in romance and delicately poised for chaos, the song sounds like the type of diatribe one would imagine Lord Byron to have coughed up between bouts of syphilis. It’s a moment at the Libertines LP that stands out for its allure and one track that usually begs for a sing-a-lengthy at live shows. ‘Hooray for the twenty first Century’ “What became of the running elegance?/ Nike Air, Reebok, Adidas/ Scratch playing cards, Pitbulls, ecstasy/ Hooray for the 21st Century” one of the lesser travelled songs from The Libertines lower back catalogue, ‘Hooray For The 21st Century’, is speedy, livid and ferocious in same measure. A scathing indictment of the brand new century and its commercialisation, it once again sees Doherty reminiscent of the past for his emotional grounding and lamenting the future unfurling in the front of him. powerful and specific in its punk delivery, the song is a high-quality second at any Libs stay show due to the fact they hardly ever play it. however, after they do, assume a positive section of diehard fans to lose their cool. It’s a tune that captures Doherty at his incendiary quality. AZlyrics ‘the man Who might Be King’ “I lived my dream today/ I lived it yesterday/ and that i’ll be living yours tomorrow/ Don’t have a look at me that manner” There’s absolute confidence that by the time The Libertines launched their debut album in 2002, rock ‘n’ roll had modified. The Strokes had carved a really perfect storage rock gap for The Libs to fit into neatly, and that they didn’t disappoint, turning into Britain’s answer to the rock revolution. whilst the debut LP is rich with punkified skiffle moments, the follow-up became tons extra numerous and centered at the fame that surrounded them. ‘the person Who might Be King’ is one of the most vitriolic tracks on the report. stimulated by the 1975 movie of the equal call, it sees Doherty and Barat offer up their critiques for the proposed King, “i'd say only one issue: lie, lie, lie, lie, lie”. but the most blistering moment comes within the chorus as Doherty holds a replicate as much as all of these those who looked down on him as a penniless poet and roaming rock famous person. ‘You’re My Waterloo’ “You’ll never fumigate the demons/ regardless of how an awful lot you smoke/ So simply say you like me/ For three precise reasons/ and that i’ll throw you the rope” certainly one of the earlier songs inside the Libertines back catalogue, the tune remained one among their untested demos earlier than they in the end brought a new edition of ‘You’re My Waterloo’ to the band’s modern-day release, 2015’s Anthems for Doomed youth. It’s becoming that the track should land on such a named album, as it is so intrinsically linked to Doherty’s personal youth. continuously shifting and in no way settling down, Doherty struggled to make significant connections early on in his lifestyles; it’s a part of why his and Barat’s relationship turned into so connected to their survival. right here, Doherty uses his own emotions of alienation and casts it via the paradigm of an old piano ballad, the kind you may expect to listen a forlorn lover singing after final time with a gin in hand. It’s a motif that Doherty observed appealing and used all through his career — the crumbling British Empire put through the wringer as a romantic ceremony. ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ “Cornered the boy kicked out at the sector / the world kicked returned loads fuckin’ tougher now” any other song from The Libertines, there’s little or no to say approximately ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ that hasn’t already been stated or that the band don’t say of their lyrics. one of the greater specific comeback songs you’ll ever come across, Barat and Doherty element notably the plight in their friendship, with Barat making a song “light arms thru the dark, shattered a lamp and a darkness it cast,” as an instantaneous connection with Doherty’s jail time. equally, Doherty returns fire with “No, you’ve were given it the wrong manner round/ you close up me up and blamed it at the brown,” hinting at Barat’s zero tolerance for Doherty’s antics. however following this line, Doherty furnished lyrics that no longer best showcases his nation of thoughts at the time but exactly why The Libertines discovered an audience: “Cornered the boy, kicked out at the world/ the sector kicked again lots fuckin’ tougher now.” This was why a era connected with Doherty, he became risky and gifted, of route, but he became also achievable and fallible — he was an everyman. ‘Fuck forever’ “So what’s the use among dying and glory/ i will’t inform between dying and glory/ New Labour and Tory/ Purgatory and glad families” With Babyshambles, Doherty had a modern-day path to take. He was not fighting with Barat for lyric area like a 21st century Lennon-McCartney. Now, the singer had unfastened rein to enact his own sound and his own vision. One track that possibly typifies that feeling is ‘Fuck for all time’, which featured on Babysdhambles’ record Down in Albion. by no means one to turn down a combat, Doherty began to politicise his paintings and once again shine a mild on the operating elegance who, in his opinion, have been being royally shafted. but, while our favorite lyrics are far extra widespread, the track’s basis became a wreck-up. The music become an immediate attack on Barat and the affection that changed into now misplaced between them. AZlyrics ‘What A Waster’ “She wakes up within the morning, and writes down all her dreams/ reads like the e book of revelations, or the Beano or the unabridged Ulysses” An avid reader himself, there’s some gravitas to his words on ‘What A Waster’ that may in any other case be misplaced. add to that the extra authenticity Doherty brings to the concept of what a ‘waster’ clearly is, and this track takes on a new stage of realness for the listener. Doherty will become our narrator for this track as he info the trials and tribulations of his lover, singing, “in which does all of the cash move? immediately up her nostril.” soaking wet in punk rhythm and a refusal to slow down, the music is a rebel while performed stay. What possibly lands most poignantly of all is the fact that the song acts as a self-pleasant prophecy. Doherty become poised to be the saviour of British rock track however threw it all away fro narcotics. although, this self-flagellating masterclass remains one of the band’s first-class songs. ‘Time For Heroes’ “we can die in the magnificence we were born, but that’s a category of our very own my love.” Famously inspired by means of the instant Pete Doherty became cracked on the pinnacle by way of rebel police for checking his hair inside the mirrored image of their rebellion shield for the duration of the 2001 might also Day protests, ‘Time For Heroes’ turned into constantly probable to be entrenched in magnificence war. “Did you see the fashionable youngsters within the rebellion? Shovelled up like muck and set the night time on fireplace” sings Doherty with gusto. while the upper class controls the establishment, one aspect the working magnificence has constantly had below its spell is song. It seems only fitting that Doherty have to choose the savage song to make his emotions clear. the whole thing that makes a incredible Libertines track is here. There’s romance, violence and misaligned patriotism all of which makes this tune feel like a William Turner painting being enacted in front of our eyes. The lyric above first-rate encapsulates all of these feelings into one of the maximum sincere lyrics Doherty has ever written. ‘the coolest antique Days’ “if you’ve lost your religion in love and song then the quit gained’t be long” Few lyrics speak as virtually for Doherty’s individual and eventual downfall than the lovely ‘the good vintage Days’. another second in which Barat and Doherty are glad to appearance backwards for their visions of the future, the band sing their hearts out with the permeating idea that once they stop the choral renditions their lives will come to an end. while it is able to appear the type of aspect you’d anticipate scrawled at the lower back of adlescent diaries, there’s a certain grandness to the lyric that still feels actual. even as Doherty and Barat have been satisfied to location themselves at the bottom of London’s underbelly, they had been capable of provide grandiose moments of reflection, too, strong within the knowledge that they’d stand through the sentiment if wishes be. always placing song and art at the leading edge of everything he did, Doherty lived out this lyric time and time again. ‘Albion’ “Down in Albion/ They’re black and blue/ however we don’t talk approximately that/ Are you from ’round here?/ How do you do?/ I’d like to talk about that” whilst the traditional line of “gin in teacups and leave son the lawn” is the lyric without end quoted from this 2006 tune from Babyshambles album Down in Albion, the tune’s commencing strains say a long way greater than that. They provide up a crystalline vision of britain, or Albion, as Doherty refers to it. no longer handiest noting the continuous fistfights that appear to clutter our streets, nor just the stiff upper lip that stops us from talking approximately it but also the want for exchange. missing any robust narrative to the music, Doherty instead offers modern-day Britain vignettes, and it’s a harsh reflection. soaking wet in violence and a refusal to connect, Britain has spent a lot of its glory years as a prisoner of itself, by no means definitely unfurling and evolving. The singer notes that dying and instead attempts to conjure up a brand new land, a new Albion, wherein the beyond is well known, and the destiny welcomed. AZlyrics

[todaydreambelieversfic]

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: Fearlessly Day 1

Our first new look SPOTLIGHT. 

We’re spending the next five days spotlighting fearlessly , an author whose specialty is hitting the real feeling and romance of a good angst-fest. Find her @fearlesslygleefics

DAY 1: Meet the author

Why Klaine? 

I think first I need to answer: why Glee? … I remember being intrigued by the previews; it was a show about musicals, where people actually sang on every episode. I’ve always loved music and musical theatre, so naturally I started watching Glee when the pilot aired. The motley crew of characters were so unique, and at the same time so relatable in one way or another, that I became instantly hooked.

As season one continued, the character which spoke to me the most, not necessarily because I related to him exactly – but more so because of how strongly the actor was committed and invested in him, was Kurt. Chris’s portrayal of Kurt was outstanding and, from the moment I noticed him in the pilot, I couldn’t keep my eyes off of him. I liked him because he was snarky and funny and didn’t take any crap from anyone (“One day, you will all work for me.”). But, he was also soft, sensitive, compassionate, and he loved his dad so fiercely. It was hard not to love that character. I fell for him completely.

... Keep reading for how Fearlessly fell for Blaine, what to expect in her writing, how to keep an angsty story from leaving your readers heartbroken and what Fearlessly likes about her own writing (always the toughest question)

I wished the world for Kurt. Every week I watched with baited breath rooting him on. I wanted him to feel included, loved, worthy and entitled to everything everyone else was. I hoped he would find himself and come out to at least his dad. After he did (in such a beautifully heart-wrenching scene), I hoped he would find a boy who would accept him and love him for who he was. I wanted him to be able to hold hands with that boy, kiss him, and do everything else straight high-school couples do. I wanted all of this for Kurt before Blaine came into the picture.

When Never Been Kissed aired and I first laid eyes on that dapper, hazel-eyed boy (much like Kurt did), I wanted it all for Kurt even more. And I quickly realized that I wanted it all for Blaine too. In that moment, Klaine became end-game, and there was nothing anyone could say or do to make me believe otherwise. Darren’s excellent and subtle portrayal of Blaine (as the writers weren’t fully invested in the character at the time), made it easy for me to fall in love with not only the character, but the couple. Their dynamic, chemistry, and idiosyncrasies with each other hit me right in the heart and have remained there ever since.

I didn’t immediately start reading and writing fic. I enjoyed their story on TV (sometimes screaming and crying at the writers’ decisions for them) to the very end. It was only after the series ended that I entered the fanfic realm. It was a way to help me cope with losing something that had been very dear to me for six years. It may seem silly but, even though season six was a disaster, I grieved the loss of Glee. It had been like a friend who would always cheer me up on a bad day (and I still watch it when I need a boost). So, yes, I started writing to cope, and as a result, I fell in love with Klaine even more.

Why Klaine? How could it not be Klaine? These boys have my heart and it’s an honour to write them and bring them to life in whatever small way I can.

2. What’s in a typical fearlessly story?  

Angst, angst, and more angst - at least that’s what I’ve been told. I guess it’s true, I won’t deny it. I love writing (and reading) angst. The thing about it though is that I always take care of Kurt and Blaine in the end. That’s doesn’t mean that they ultimately have flowers and rainbows and glitter stickers. I often put them through the wringer, actually; but in the end they have resolution and happiness.

A typical fearlessly story shows Kurt and Blaine being equal partners. I know that in canon there were many times when they were not seen in that way, and in reality, couple dynamics aren’t always that way either, but it’s very important to me that Kurt and Blaine be equal in my stories. They may not always be perfect, but they will not always be perfect together.

Lastly, I am open to writing almost any trope / verse as long as it can be written in a way that keeps Kurt and Blaine on equal footing and I am able to ultimately take care of the characters. I’ve found though that I tend to lean towards: hurt / comfort, family, age difference, and dom/sub

3. What kind of stories do you write?

Recently I came up with my own genre: Romangst (maybe it already exists, but I’ve never seen it). I love mixing the two genres of romance and angst together. All of my stories, including my one-shots, have varying degrees of angst in them, spanning anything from self-doubt to death-bed type stuff. Usually the best way to balance the angst (so that we all don’t die of a heart attack) is to include comedy. I have quickly learned that I’m not the best at writing humour, so I balance mine with doses of romance and fluff.

Another way to balance out angst, and conveniently ties in with romance, is to include sex scenes, or smut, if you will. Many of my stories include smut, but not all of them. There is a time and a place for it in my writing. Some tropes are naturally more prone to include sex. My d/s series and my m-preg story, for examples, include quite a bit of sexy times for the boys.

If I had to label it, I would say that I write mostly AU and canon divergent. It’s rare for me to write canon compliant, although my series, One which is based off season one, is pretty much that. I guess it’s safe to say I like to challenge myself with my writing and the trope / genre I choose to write is only limited to my mood.

4. What do you like about your writing? 

This is a hard one for me to answer because, some days … many days, I don’t like anything about my writing. Sometimes, only my beta can convince me to not delete everything I’ve written. If you are a fan of my writing, you should thank her, because my list of published works would only be half as long if it weren’t for her. (Thank you @aj4668)

But there are days when I do like my writing and I’m trying hard to have more of those days. Receiving kudos and positive comments help, and I have been so lucky to have a readership that lets me know when they like a piece. I am grateful to every one of those people who have ever given my stories positive and/or constructive feedback. It is very motivating to read those.

 So, to answer the question, what I like about my writing (I’m stalling) … is that it comes from an authentic place. I stay true to the characters to the best of my ability, and I care what happens to them. I guess maybe my writing has integrity in that I won’t bend their characters to something unrecognizable – at least I hope that comes through in the writing.

 Another thing is that when I read fic, I love to read something that touches my heart. I love the brand of angst that gives me a physical pang to my chest, and the resolution that makes me cry. I have felt that angsty jolt and have cried while writing some of my own work, so I guess I like that my writing makes me … feel.

TOMORROW: Fearlessly recs her fic for your reading pleasure!

[njawaidofficial]

'Bachelorette' Finale Winner: Did Rachel Lindsay Pick Bryan Abasolo or Peter Kraus?

http://styleveryday.com/2017/08/08/bachelorette-finale-winner-did-rachel-lindsay-pick-bryan-abasolo-or-peter-kraus/

'Bachelorette' Finale Winner: Did Rachel Lindsay Pick Bryan Abasolo or Peter Kraus?

[Warning: This story contains spoilers from the season finale of ABC’s Bachelorette.]

After announcing ahead of the season premiere that she was engaged to her winner, Bachelorette viewers were finally clued in on the identity of Rachel Lindsay’s current man on Monday night’s finale. But the reveal did not play out as the audience anticipated.

Lindsay, who is ABC’s first black Bachelorette, picked Bryan Abasolo to give her final rose. In return, the Colombian chiropractor got down on one knee at the Rioja, Spain proposal site and popped the question. After a season spent adding many historic firsts to the 15-year-old franchise — and one that has been accused of race-baiting by highlighting race-fueled arguments — Lindsay’s choice remains a trailblazing one, as Abasolo joins a small handful of diverse winners in the show’s combined 34 seasons.

Her decision also ranked as a first in the way it played out. The three-hour TV event traditionally airs a pre-taped two-hour season finale, followed by the live After the Final Rose special when the star reunites with both her winner and her runner-up. Heading into the finale with three finalists, however, shook up the order of things.

One by one, Lindsay’s eliminated men — first Eric Bigger in a traditional rose ceremony, followed by Peter Kraus in an unanticipated exit — appeared by Lindsay’s side to face the music. But the runner-up had never made it to the proposal site. Abasolo was the only one who got out of the limo for the traditional ending moment.

“When we first kissed, it was literally like a chemistry bomb had exploded,” Abasolo said, before offering a Neil Lane engagement ring. “I am completely head over heels, totally absolutely in love with you. I just hope you feel the same.”

She replied, “My heart has never been more confused than it has been this week… I was trying to find cracks in what seemed like the perfect foundation. I have really, really had to do some soul-searching to find the courage to challenge myself, but this love has been so sure. It’s tested me in ways that I couldn’t have even imagined. I always said that I would know that the person I’m supposed to be with is the person I could never picture my life without, so right here, in this moment standing with you, I see my forever and I see my future.”

She then accepted his proposal with a resounding yes, only one day after Kraus’ intense and unplanned goodbye. Never before on The Bachelorette has a runner-up not made it to the proposal site.

Her decision also marks the end of season-long speculation about whether or not Lindsay would pick a black contestant. The star, who told The Hollywood Reporter that she did not let race dictate her ultimate decision, has been open about the pressure from the African-American community to pick a black man and the anticipated backlash if she didn’t. Only one of her final three contestants, Bigger, would have fit that bill.

Traditionally, the newly minted pair appears live on the annual ATFR special, where they update host Chris Harrison and Bachelor Nation about life after the show. Lindsay, however, joined Harrison at the top of the triple hour and, in another show first, commented on the show as it aired and reunited with her exes as they were eliminated.

Abasolo was the last of the three to join Lindsay, who was forced to take a look back at their romantic, and at times rocky, courtship on the series, which began with Lindsay meeting 31 contestants for the reality dating franchise’s most diverse season in 15 years.

When he joined her during the live event, he re-proposed to Lindsay and told her that he never wants her to take the ring off ever again. The pair said they couldn’t wait to get to know each other in a “normal” sense and admitted that they hadn’t yet ironed out wedding details or where they plan to live. Lindsay is from Dallas and Abasolo hails from Miami, but they also threw Los Angeles into the mix. 

“I’m not one to hide and keep things in secret,” she said of what she’s most looking forward to. “I want to show this woman off,” he added. 

Lindsay, who admitted that her family remains skeptical of the whole process, said that when she had to defend Abasolo against her family is the moment she knew he was the one for her: “He truly is my best friend.”

When speaking to THR after the recent Men Tell All reunion special taping, Lindsay acknowledged the pressure to name a winner. “I’m happy and that’s all that really matters to me. And he’s happy too,” she said, adding that her code name for her fiance has been “Jerome.” Adding, “I hope everyone is happy with my decision but I know I can’t please everyone.”

Per show rules, she and “Jerome” have been living in hiding since filming wrapped months ago, and the negativity on social media has been one thing they weren’t prepared for. “You can never really prepare for it because we’re thrown into this public view and people all have their own opinions,” she said. “They’ve all faced it, and my fiance definitely has as well. I think he’s handling it in the best way he can. And for me, I just have to be always positive and supportive.”

Abasolo’s win continues the show’s trend of the first impression rose being a precursor to the season. On the first night, Lindsay, 31, awarded Abasolo, 37, with the coveted rose, along with the first kiss. 

The pair, whose chemistry was on display from the start, didn’t hit any road bumps until introducing one another to their families. During Abasolo’s hometown date to Miami, his mother told Lindsay she would “kill” her if she broke her son’s heart. When he met the Lindsay family, the star’s mother and sister strongly questioned his authenticity.

Before Lindsay arrived at her happy ending, she had two finalists to eliminate. Early on in the episode, following their Fantasy Suite date, Lindsay said goodbye to Bigger.

“It’s hard to say goodbye when I have such strong feelings for you, it’s just that I have stronger feelings for the other two guys here,” she told the personal trainer. “It is important to understand that I do love you, I’m just not in love.”

Though Bigger and Lindsay’s relationship didn’t ramp up until the end of the season, the 29-year-old was devastated by her decision. “Truth be told I’ll always love you, that’s just the truth,” he replied in a classy and heartfelt exit. Later in the limo, he confessed, “She was the one, for sure.” 

When speaking with Harrison, Lindsay echoed the words she said during Bigger’s goodbye. She contemplated running after his car and felt like she was potentially making a huge mistake. Breaking usual ATFR format, Bigger then appeared mid-episode to reunite with Lindsay, a face-to-face meeting that they both were visibly nervous to have.

“It was tough, but I understood it,” he said, after asking Lindsay how her heart was and if she was happy. “You had to do what you had to do.” He said he was “absolutely” ready to propose: “Either I’m all in or I’m not, so I was ready.” 

It was runner-up Kraus, however, who was dealt the biggest blow, his elimination silencing a loud majority of Bachelor Nation who had taken to social media to voice their opinions on who Lindsay should pick. There was also fervent social media support for Kraus to be named the next Bachelor if he didn’t win. (Harrison, however, told THR they won’t be announcing the next Bachelor until Bachelor in Paradise has had some time on the air.)

After sharing his hesitations about proposing as the season went on, Lindsay ultimately told him that if he wasn’t ready to propose on the final day she didn’t want him to continue being on the show. Kraus told Lindsay that he wanted to continue being together but that he couldn’t commit to proposing. Though Lindsay’s family applauded Kraus’ realistic timeline of taking things slowly after a reality TV courtship, Lindsay herself has been adamant about wanting a fiance at the end of the journey, and not a boyfriend.

“My fear is you don’t have that same level of commitment,” she told him, later admitting to Harrison that she cried her eyelashes off about the breakup, which happened that night. “The hardest thing is saying goodbye to somebody I’m not supposed to be saying goodbye to.” 

Kraus had been watching backstage and when he joined Lindsay on the couch, he opened up about regretting not being open enough to the process.

“You were at your own pace,” she told Kraus during an icy and tense reunion. “I just don’t think this process is for you. You need more time. You need to see things through.” When Harrison brought up a comment he made about how life without him would be one of mediocrity, Lindsay did not accept his apology: “I’m living my best life.”

The emotional encounter continued, with Kraus saying he felt like he was being attacked and that he asked if he could reach out to Lindsay and was told no. Calling out his nervous and anxious feelings, he also said his feelings for her are still there. “I needed more experience with you, life experience,” he said, letting her know that he cried backstage while re-watching it play out.

Going into the finale, Lindsay had defended her picks and even provided a slight hint as to which man she would be picking in the end. Kraus had first confessed his proposal fears the same episode that Lindsay’s family put Abasolo through the wringer. 

“I want somebody who wants what I want AND wants it with me,” she wrote on Twitter after clarifying a conversation that aired between her and Kraus on their differing views of what it means to be engaged. 

Ultimately, Lindsay said she had no regrets.

“I’ve learned that he is exactly the person that he said is, which is scary,” Lindsay told THR ahead of the finale. “Even in Fantasy Suites where you have off camera time together, it’s not this extensive time, so you’re thrown into this world and you feel strongly for this person you want to spend the rest of your life with. But you’re also like, ‘Is this person the person they say they are?’ And I can honestly say that my fiance is even better than the way I thought he was. And that’s what’s been so great.”

As for her goals for life after the show, she had echoed what the pair said on Monday night, “We just want to bring our lives together and I’m not sure how that will look or where we’ll be.” She added, “But I know that we just want to be together and get to know each other better and build on the foundation that we’ve already started.”

What do you think about Lindsay and her final choice? Tell THR in the comments below and check back in for more from the Bachelorette and her winner after After the Final Rose airs on ABC. 

The Bachelorette Bachelor Nation