#flavors of midnight behind the scenes

[plumbobgothica]

Frida Goth

At 23, Frida Goth is old enough to be disillusioned with the world, but young enough that she’s still caught in the somewhat self-centered haze of youth. She means well, but like many her age, she mistakenly believes that she’s wiser than she actually is. In reality she’s still finding her way—and carrying unhealed childhood wounds that fuel impulsive and often reckless life choices. Probably has undiagnosed ADHD. Definitely needs therapy.

Traits

Hot-headed

Party Animal

Commitment Issues

Natural Cook

Friendly

Frida is the main character in my Flavors of Midnight story, and also the main sim I'm playing with right now in my game.

**I do not condone smoking.**

[midnight-shadow-cafe]

Under the Mistletoe

John “Bravo-6” Price x reader

Warnings: fluffy little Christmas special

Authors Note: I hope you enjoy, happy holidays 💜

Word Count: 1k

Masterlist https://www.tumblr.com/midnight-shadow-cafe/764209536727957504/key

MDNI18+MDNI18+MDNI18+MDNI18+MDNI18+

Snow fell gently outside the window, a quiet rhythm against the frosted panes. The world beyond was cloaked in a pristine white blanket, the occasional flicker of Christmas lights from neighboring homes casting colorful reflections on the icy streets. Inside, the warmth of the house was a perfect contrast to the winter chill, and the scent of pine mingled with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and fresh-baked cookies.

Soft holiday music drifted from the old record player in the corner, its crackling notes adding a nostalgic charm to the scene. John Price leaned casually against the doorframe, his rugged frame silhouetted by the soft glow of the twinkling Christmas tree lights. His sharp blue eyes held a glimmer of amusement as he watched his wife adjust a shimmering silver ribbon for what seemed like the hundredth time.

“Love, it looks perfect already,” he said, his deep voice tinged with warmth and a hint of teasing.

You turned to him, tinsel in one hand and a determined expression on your face. “Perfect? It’s missing something. I just can’t figure out what.”

John’s boots thudded softly against the polished wooden floor as he crossed the room. The faint scent of his cologne mixed with the evergreen aroma as he wrapped his arms around your waist from behind, his touch firm yet comforting. “You’ve been at it for an hour, darling. Maybe it’s time for a break?”

You sighed, the tension in your shoulders easing as you leaned back against him. Your head rested naturally on his broad shoulder, and the soft knit of his sweater brushed against your cheek. “Maybe you’re right. But this is our first Christmas as husband and wife. I want it to be…” You gestured vaguely toward the tree. “You know, special.”

John’s lips pressed a tender kiss to the top of your head, his beard tickling your skin in a way that made you smile despite yourself. “It’s already special. We’ve got each other, don’t we? That’s all that matters.”

Your heart swelled at his words, and a warm flush spread through you. Turning in his arms, you gazed up at him with a playful smile. “You’re too good at this, you know? Saying just the right thing to make me melt.”

He chuckled, the sound rich and full, his chest rumbling against yours. “It’s a gift,” he replied with a wink.

The two of you moved to the couch, its plush cushions inviting after hours of decorating. A soft throw blanket was draped over the back, and John settled in first, patting the spot beside him. You joined him, and he reached for the steaming mugs of hot chocolate sitting on the coffee table. The marshmallows on top had begun to melt, forming a creamy layer that promised sweetness with every sip.

“Cheers, darling. To our first Christmas together,” he said, holding out his mug.

“Cheers,” you echoed, clinking your mug gently against his. The warmth of the drink seeped through your fingers as you took a sip, the rich chocolate flavor paired perfectly with the hint of spice from a sprinkle of cinnamon.

For a while, the two of you sat in comfortable silence, the crackling fire in the hearth providing a soothing soundtrack. The room was bathed in a soft orange glow, and the twinkle lights on the tree reflected in the ornaments, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the walls. You could hear the occasional pop of the logs as the fire consumed them, the sound a reminder of the cozy haven you’d created together.

“Got you something,” John said suddenly, his voice breaking the peaceful quiet. His hand disappeared into the pocket of his sweater as he leaned slightly toward you.

You looked at him curiously, setting your mug down on the table. “John, we said no gifts until tomorrow morning.”

“Couldn’t wait,” he admitted with a sheepish grin, his expression softening as he produced a small velvet box.

Your breath caught as you took the box from him, your fingers brushing against his in the exchange. Inside was a delicate gold bracelet, its charm a tiny tree etched with intricate detail. You traced the design with your finger, your eyes growing misty as emotion welled up inside you.

“John… it’s beautiful,” you whispered, your voice barely audible over the crackling fire.

“Thought it might be nice to have something you could wear every day,” he said, his tone gentle. “A little reminder of us.”

Tears threatened to spill, but you blinked them away, overwhelmed by the love and thoughtfulness in his gesture. Leaning in, you kissed him softly, your lips brushing against his in a moment of shared warmth. “I love it. And I love you.”

“Love you too, sweetheart,” he murmured, his forehead resting against yours for a brief, tender moment.

The evening unfolded in a series of shared joys: laughter over stories from past Christmases, playful teasing during a few rounds of board games, and the occasional pause to enjoy another sip of hot chocolate. John’s competitive streak emerged as he insisted on a rematch when he lost, his gruff protests only adding to your amusement.

When the clock struck midnight, the two of you found yourselves standing beneath the mistletoe hanging in the doorway. The tiny green leaves and bright red berries framed the moment perfectly.

“Merry Christmas, love,” John said, his voice low and full of affection as he pulled you close.

“Merry Christmas, John,” you whispered back, your words a promise as his lips captured yours. The kiss was slow and unhurried, filled with a warmth and tenderness that seemed to make the world fade away. In that moment, wrapped in his arms, you knew this Christmas would be one to remember forever.

[dropout-if]

Dropout Customization

Due to some questions about MC customization, I have decided to compile all the physical and personality aspects that are selectable about the Dropout.

A reminder that this is all subject to change and that new things may be added (or deleted). Feedback and ideas to further develop MC are encouraged.

Main Ideas

Name Surname Nickname

Sex, Gender, Pronouns (it's possible to customise them), Breast/Pecs, Penis/Vagina (If MC is transgender, their transition takes place while they're away) Title (Ms. / Mr. / Mx.)

Virginity or lack thereof.

If MC is trans (when they realized about it [high school, middle school, college] and if they told their family // the ROs already know, as MC told Uma and J, and word spread).

Birthday which establishes the Dropout's age as either 21 or 22 depending on the season (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter)

Major (Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Computer science, Law, Economics, Education (in relation to science/maths/etc), Mathematics, Physics, Psychology). The Dropout's Major affects flavor text. These options are the ones approved by the Dropout's parents, though it's possible for MC to express interest in other degrees/topics (music, art, English, anthropology, archeology, classical studies, history).

Reason behind dropping out (MC got kicked out (they were caught cheating) MC didn't get a high enough GPA and dropped out / MC never even wanted to go to college and ultimately decided they wanted out / MC didn't fit in (they were discriminated, lonely, etc) though they really liked college / MC originally liked their degree and college but gradually lost interest in the entire thing / MC never liked their degree and decided to drop out / Something specifically related to mental health (mainly anxiety) / Impostor's syndrome.) This affects flavor text.

2 Coping Mechanisms (Alcohol, Tobacco, Drugs, Sleeping around, Avoidance, Overspending, Humor, *Hobby (overworking self) [Anger, Fake/forced happiness, Sadness, Indifference].) Each coping mechanism opens a variable and a storyline. You can choose two, though choosing one related to emotional responses [between brackets] automatically blocks out the others.

2 Hobbies (Singing, playing an instrument, songwriting, creative writing, drawing, sketching, sculpting, acting, photography, soccer, football, swimming, basketball, gymnastics, boxing, judo, karate, taekwondo, kickboxing, going to the gym, cooking/baking, dancing [ballet, contemporary dance, modern], yoga.) This affects flavor text and scenes.

Job (Bartender [Wanda, Statler is also around often], Cashier [Statler], Columnist [J (+Kai if poly)], Caregiver [Kai], Waiter/Waitress [Uma (+Travis if poly)], Tutor [Travis]) Each job gives you more time with a certain RO, as well as unlocking a storyline.

Personality Stats

Playful/Serious Honest/Dishonest Friendly/Rude Introverted/Extroverted Laid-back/Uptight Cynical/Idealistic Flirty/Reserved Family oriented/Individualistic

Others: Insomnia, Migraines

Physical Appearance

*It's possible to choose MC's appearance as a high schooler as well. This affects flavor text.

Height (very tall, talk, average, short, very short)

Skin tone (ebony, dark brown, light brown, russet, golden, olive, honey, tawny, tanned, fair, rosy, ivory.) Choosing any skin tone gives you the possibility of choosing to be a poc (idea I stole from Mila, @beyondthegame)

*Build (scrawny, skinny, lithe, lean, muscular, chubby, curvy, hourglass).

*Hair color (max 3 tones, 1 base and other 2) (possible to return home with a mess of dye for Maude to fix. NATURAL (Ashen blonde, Sunflower blonde, Strawberry blonde, Caramel, Honey brown, Chocolate brown, Copper, Auburn, Ruby red, Midnight brown, Jet black, Ebony black) NON-NATURAL (Pink, Violet, Lilac, Blue jade, Vermilion red, Snowy white, Silver, Emerald green, Canary yellow, Bleached).

Hair texture (kinky, very coiled, coiled, curly, wavy, slightly wavy, straight)

*Hair length (ear-length, chin-length, shoulder-length, below shoulder-length, chest-length, waist-length)

*Hair style (SHORT/MEDIUM: natural, side-parted, mullet, layered, bob, ponytail, twin ponytails, buzz fade, slick back, messy, wolf cut, bun. LONG: natural, high/low ponytail, messy, shaggy, California waves, a half updo, side-swept, bun, braid, twin braids, twin ponytails).

*Eye color (albino red, dark blue, light blue, dark green, light green, hazel, amber, chestnut brown, chocolate brown, black, grey).

Others

*It's possible to choose MC's appearance as a high schooler as well. This affects flavor text.

*Glasses (yes, no, contacts)

*Facial hair (No/shaved. Stubble, full beard, goatee, ducktail,van dyke, garibaldi, mustache, soul patch, light beard).

Scars, can choose as many as possible (Back, chest, abdomen, upper and lower arm, thigh, knees, calf, mouth area, neck, cheek, hands, eye area, shoulder)

*Tattoos (One big in X body area, patch-like bodysuit, bodysuit, one/two sleeves, just legs, a few tattoos all over, a small in X place).

*Piercings (Ears [helix, lobe, industrial], navel, tongue, nose ring and septum, eyebrow, lips, smiley, nipples, genital)

Dimples

Braces

Freckles (face, body, both)

Beauty mark, multiple (under eye, over lip, neck, body)

*Outfit/Style (streetwear, alternative, cute, preppy, casual, formal, business casual, dark academia, messy, boho/eclectic, comfortable)

*Bedroom, at family home and at new apartment (messy, colorful, emo, basic, boho, modern, industrial, vintage, minimalist, cute)

*Diet (vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, keto, meat-eater, lactose intolerant)

Family pet (small/large dog, cat, fish tank, hamster/rabbit/guinea pig, cockatiel/parrot/canaries)

Characters

Closeness to all family members (tight-knit, close, so-so, cold, barely any relationship)

Same with the friend group

Crush on Statler during high school (yes/no)

'Popularity' during high school and college (popular, social butterfly [got along with many people but wasn't part of the popular groups], normal, loner, outcast [somewhat antagonistic in a way/rebel].)

[theresattrpgforthat]

any ttrpgs for spooky dark boarding school stories? gotham academy, the boarding school: las cumbres, wednesday, that kinda thing?

THEME: Dark Boarding Schools

Hello there, at first I felt like this overlapped with all of my magic school recommendations, but once I did some digging, I realized that there's a lot of big differences! That also means that there was a good number of games I haven't recommended before, so I hope there's something here that fits what you're looking for.

Tangled Blessings, by Cassi Mothwin.

On the eve of your final exam at Brackroot Academy, what mysteries, secrets, dread, and drama will you recall from your last four years of schooling?

Tangled Blessings is a solo journaling or two-player RPG inspired by dark academia media, ghost stories, and graduate school. Featuring a wizarding college, wandering specters, assigned houses, curses, devils’ bargains and more supernatural flavor, Tangled Blessings blends horror and the fantastical to help players craft a story that spans their time at the academy — culminating in one final showdown against their rival.

If your favorite stories ever involved sneaking around an ancient building, uncovering dangerous secrets, studying in a dusty library, practicing spells on the lawn, or making perilous deals with creatures lurking in the darkness… This game is for you.

Tangled Blessings is a game about discovering the dark secrets hidden behind the allure of a secret magical world. You use a tarot deck to determine your character’s placement at the school, the nature of their rival, and the ghosts and creatures that will emerge throughout your years at the school. Each year is represented by a series of card draws, which will represent events that you have to decide how you respond to. If you play this game using the 2-player variant, each of you will play each-other’s rivals, comparing your results to see how the school year affects the both of you. The game culminates in a Final Exam that will determine whether you or or rival comes out on top.

St. Hornbeck, by belsaas.

Welcome to St. Hornbeck College/

Atop a small hill in the woods just outside the small town of Southfield, WI sits a College. Old, copper-rimmed limestone buildings huddle together against the harsh winters, while herds of students wander between them in search of wisdom, kinship and the occasional party. Soon, those herds of students will include you. There are two main reasons for enrolling at St. Hornbeck. Firstly, they have a leading program in the field you want to major in (yes, whatever you may choose). Secondly, there are only a handful of colleges that accept monster-teens in America…

This game relies on traditional teenage tropes to inform your character background, and leans fully into the allegory of monstrosity being a metaphor for young adulthood. Gameplay occurs over a series of scenes, marking various days in the calendar of the school year. In each scene, you can roll for or choose complications related to your monstrosity as a way to invite tension and obstacles for your characters to overcome. If you want to see something that’s a bit darker, you might want to check out this game’s inspiration, by snagging Midnight Oil from Jay Dragon’s Patreon.

Lost Years, by Summerwood Games.

The boarding school in this game is any boarding school, every boarding school. The walls are old stone or red brick, the dormitories are filled with young people going through the agonizing process of becoming themselves, classrooms retrofitted with ceiling tiles and modern lighting.

There are spaces of this school that belong only to us students, sacred rites performed in them that mean nothing to others and everything to us. We smoke cigarettes in the basement, make out in the tack room, make meaningful eye contact across the cricket pitch. I will tell you two truths and a lie: no one can take these years from us, none of us will be the same when we leave, no class will teach us more than we learn from one another. Can you see now which one is the lie? We couldn’t.

Lost Years is a Belonging Outside Belonging game set in a boarding school menaced by a mysterious force that threatens to empty the students of everything that makes them themselves. Meant for 3-5 players, it can be played as a one-shot but is most suited for multi-session play. 

Lost Years looks to be a game that focuses on the emotional highs and lows of being a teenager trying to survive in a strange environment away from the eyes of their parents - but still under the control of some form of authority. Your characters will fill the roles of various tropes from boarding school media, such as the Sporty One, or the Witchy One.

Because this game is BoB, the school itself will fill the foreground, with various locations such as the Attic and the Greenhouse being fleshed out by different players around the table. If you want a game that focuses on the themes of dark academia and how they affect the relationships of these students, you might want to check out Lost Years.

Never & More, by Small Stories.

NEVER & MORE is a quick-play roleplaying game and Edgar Allan Poe-inspired hack of John Harper's Lasers & Feelings.

You are the newest recruits of The Society of Ushers, an occult secret society. Your mission is to prove yourself to your superiors, master the rituals required to move up a rung, and learn how to talk to ravens. Your direct superior and teacher, the Belfry-Devil, has finally deemed you suitable to circulate by yourselves amongst greater society, trusting you to remain faithful to the Ushers in the face of attempted poaching, targeted seduction, and superior parties.

This isn’t necessarily a game about academia, but I think it carries similar elements of learning, dark secrets, and hierarchy. Lasers and Feelings games balance your characters between two qualities; in this case, you are torn between your desire for safety and your hunger for knowledge. You can play this as a one-shot or draw it out if you like, just keep in mind that these types of games usually don’t have resources for character advancement, so your characters won’t gain any new abilities - although whether or not they learn from their mistakes is up to you.

Precarious Prep, by Seaworks.

Welcome to Precarious Prep.

Something dark is going on at Precarious Preparatory School, and one detective - your GM - needs somebody on the inside. In the daytime you'll take classes, get to know the students and faculty, figure out who you can trust. The better you do in class, the faster you'll level up. At night you'll investigate the campus, search for clues, and unlock puzzles. Report your discoveries to the detective to gain points.

Instead of having 6 universal stats, Precarious Prep uses a curriculum - the stats your character takes on are determined by the course load you pick up each trimester. The better you do in classes, the more firepower you’ll have in your investigations. Classes can be fully relevant, partially relevant, or irrelevant to the checks you need to make throughout the game, so coordinate with your team and round out your education with a variety of skills.

Precarious Prep uses something called Discovery Points to indicate how close your students are to revealing what exactly is going on at this preparatory school. Your characters use the things they are learning in class to investigate the mystery, while trying to avoid generating enough suspicion to get them kicked out. Many of the rules strive to generate a number of different gambles that the players can take while trying to gather information - will you do something that increases your chances of success while also increasing your chances of getting expelled? Can you get enough information before the school year ends - or before one of you gets killed?

This game is still in open beta, which means it’s free, but also that it might still have some kinks that need to be worked out. The designer is very eager for feedback, so if you take a look at this game, you might be able to contribute to the final product!

I’d Also Recommend….

The Gardening Club, by Wizard of Ox.

[criticallyacclaimedstranger]

Reminder [Tim Rockford x f!reader]

Read on Ao3

Rating: Explicit

Fandom: Merge Mansion ad (can't fucking believe this...)

Pairing: Detective Tim Rockford x you/cishet f!reader

Tags/Warnings: reader wears sexy lingerie but no description of body type, blowjob, deepthroating, workplace sex.

Summary: Tim Rockford works too hard, and too late. You have to remind him of what's waiting for him at home.

Words: 2,165

A/N: Y'all I am adding a new character to my menagerie of Pascal men! Dunno if I get Tim Rockford but I've been thinking about sucking his dick since I first saw him. He just has that vibe about him. Enjoy.

He is sitting astride a chair in front of a huge notice board filled with photos, notes, clippings, clues pinned to it, connected by red twine. The white shirt is straining to reach across his broad upper body. You remember a time when it had the shape of a V, now it's more of a U before connecting with the still narrow hips and flat ass.

You nod a thanks to the officer who let you in, and when he closes the door behind him, you lock it.

"Detective," you quip teasingly, but there's no response except a neck roll. He sighs deeply as he rubs his neck.

He's been working around the clock on this case. You avoid looking at the notice board, the pictures of bloody crime scenes, as you walk up to the chair.

"Tim," you speak softly, your hand landing on his shoulder. Tim twitches and looks up at you. It takes him a moment to recalibrate his brain to reality.

"What are you doing here? It must be like ten o'clock."

"It's past midnight, actually," you correct him with a wry little smile. He sighs again and takes your hand away from his shoulder, bringing it to his lips for a kiss.

"I'm sorry, my love, I'm gonna pull an all-nighter again."

You grunt. He knows what it means. You've been over this before.

He rises from the chair, moves it away before turning to you. He smells of stress and determination: smells that you know well. He's always like this when he's working a case. You don't like it, but you've grown to accept it.

He pulls you in for a hug, so fast that you almost stumble into him. His broad chest, the soft stomach with the buttons ready to pop. He refuses to go up a size for some reason. The shoulder holster, the gun at his side. Your hand slides away from it, not wanting anything to do with it, only wanting your soft man.

"I'll come home in the morning for a shower," he promises in a low whisper against your hair. "Have breakfast with you."

"No, you won't," you calmly point out. "You'll get terrible coffee and a bagel from the diner around the corner, and your stomach will be a mess by the time this case is solved."

Tim chuckles a little at that before seeking out your lips. He tastes of stale coffee, and sweet and sour pork; the flavors of a murder case unsolved.

"Go home, get some sleep," he tells you gently. "I'll call when I leave."

"Aren't you wondering what I'm doing here, at this hour?"

He blinks, like he's only now realizing what time it is, and that you're actually here.

"Is everything okay?" His hands come to your cheeks, and he searches your face. You cover his hands with yours, lowering them as you smile reassuringly.

"I'm good, Tim, nothing's wrong. But I knew you'd be working all night, and I wanted to bring you something."

His brows draw together when he waits for you to elaborate. You untie the belt around your waist, and button open your trench coat. His nostrils flare and his eyes widen when you reveal yourself to him.

You're only wearing a bra, lace panties, and stockings underneath. It's cheesy, but he likes it.

"I came to make sure you were okay," you purr, smiling at how he swallows hard, his glassy stare.

"Baby..."

"Just let me give this to you."

You undo his belt, knuckles brushing against the soft fat of his tummy. Tim exhales in a low sigh when the belt releases its hold of him. With heavy-lidded eyes, he gazes adoringly at you as you unzip his pants. Softly, he trails his hands along your sides, goosebumps rising in the wake of his touch. Your nipples knit, and his gaze drop to the stiff pebbles showing through the lace fabric of the bra.

"You're too good to me, baby," he sighs, and then his eyes fall shut as you slide your hand inside his pants. "Oh."

You cup his still soft cock through the underwear, stroke in carefully as you lean in to kiss him. His lips betray a hurry that's he's loath to rein in, but when his tongue tries to pry in between your lips, you pull away with a smile. Tim doesn't smile back, but stares at you with a drunkenness in his eyes, mouth open and begging to be kissed again. You lean back in and nibble at his full lower lip, cup his cheek with your free hand, and stroke your thumb over his mustache. His cock hardens against your other palm, and you encourage it with a firmer touch.

"Tease," he groans, hands landing on your hips, fingers playing with the waistband of your panties. A shiver runs through you.

"Takes one to know one."

You press your lips to his anew, and now your hand slips in under the worn elastic of the waistband. His cock jumps at the direct contact and your feel a patch of wet rub off on your hand. Your fingers close loosely around his cock, thumb smearing out the precum as your tongue plunges into his mouth for a hungry kiss. Tim's strong arms wrap around you, the smell of his sweaty pits hitting your nose but not in a repulsive way, instead you feel the crotch of your panties get wet, and your kiss turns more insistent. You suck his lower lip between your teeth, pull it out, and release it with a pop. Still holding his cock, you step back, pulling him gently but firmly to make him follow you. And Tim follows, hands reaching all over you, eyes burning with desire, lips swollen with kisses. You direct him to his desk and pull down his pants and underwear before giving him a little push to make him sit down. His cock is now as stiff as it can be, and you separate his legs, keeping eye contact as you kneel between his thighs.

"Oh, baby..." he sighs, surrendering to you with a pleading look on his face. "Baby, you're so good to me..."

"You deserve it," you purr as you nuzzle his cock, kissing its length, flicking your tongue at it. "You work so hard, you deserve to relax a little."

He moans again when you hand closes around the thick root of his cock. You trail your tongue up his length, ending with a soft swirl around the head, the glistening precum bringing a sharp taste to your mouth.

A few night shift officers pass by the door, but apart from that you can only hear the drone of the air conditioning, and Tim's heavy breathing which turns into an audible gasp bordering on a moan when you open your mouth and take his cock into your mouth. He breathes your name, looks down on you as you smile up at him, his cock in your mouth, one of your hands wrapped around the root, the other cupping his balls. He draws his fingers through his hair before dropping both hands to your head, petting it softly as you pop his cock out of your mouth and proceed to licking and stroking it. The low lights are casting shadows over Tim's face, but you can see his eyes, half closed and staring down at you in complete surrender. You squeeze the root of his balls firmly and are rewarded with a sharp hiss as Tim draws in breath.

"Sweet baby..."

Your cunt is heavy and warm, and your arousal starts to drip into your panties. The mossy, heavy scent rises to tickle your nose through the musk of your man, and you moan low as you suck the head of his cock before flicking your tongue at the frenulum.

"Fuck, oh God..."

Second that. You enjoy sucking his dick, always have. The different textures, the scent, the way it makes him twitch and curse and finally beg you. The sloppiness of it when you drool, the rush of adrenaline when you manage to take all of him, the tip bumping down your throat, Tim losing it when you massage his balls while letting him fuck your throat.

You draw a deep breath and swallow all of him, balls deep. Your lips shielding your teeth from grazing him, you immediately start to salivate, the pressure against your throat almost too much. You will yourself to calm down, to breathe through your nose as you know you can, and start to fuck him with your mouth. Your eyes fill with tears, and when you look up Tim, he brings a trembling hand to wipe away the first one that falls. You pull back, a string of saliva connecting your lips to his cock, and lean into his palm cupping your cheek.

"Don't hurt yourself, sweetness," he mumbles hoarsely. "You're doing so good."

"I can do it," you promise him.

"I know you can."

You devour him again, tongue pressing flat against the veiny underside of his cock, your eyes falling shut as you focus on the act, on breathing, on controlling your gag reflex. Tim's breaths come in choked groans above you, his fingers tangle into your hair, petting and gently pulling while he showers you with gratitude and praise. The cold linoleum floor is hard on your knees, but you don't let that hold you back as you do your best to blow Tim’s mind. The taste of cum grows stronger, and you press your fingers against his taint while still fondling his balls. That's his undoing: his balls twitch and you feel the length of his cock pulsate as he shoots his cum down your throat. You almost choke, so you pull back, coughing as the last of his cum splatters your chin and chest. He crouches in front of you, wobbles like his legs don't carry him, panting like he just ran a marathon, but still searches your face as you fight to find your breath through the coughing.

"I'm good, I'm good," you wheeze, but Tim doesn't stop his scrutiny of you until you've found your breath.

"Okay?"

"Okay," you nod, smiling breathlessly. He smiles back then, and heaves a big sigh.

"Goddammit, woman..."

"What?" You bat your eyelashes innocently.

"Look at the state of you. A pornographic mess."

He wipes his thumb over your slick chin and closes his eye with a deep exhale when you grab his hand and bring the thumb to your mouth, sucking hard.

"You'll be the death of me."

"What a way to go, huh?"

His chestnut eyes are warm when he opens them anew.

"I'd prefer to live for as long as I can, as long as you're in my life."

"I'm here," you reassure him, your hand coming up to his cheek, which has not seen a razor in days. He leans in for a kiss, licks at your lips and into your mouth where you share his taste with him.

He finally helps you up and tuck himself in before grabbing a couple of tissues for you from his desk. You wipe yourself clean, but when you're about to wrap the coat around you again, Tim stops you.

"What about you?" His eyes are like molten chocolate when he slides his hand inside your coat and brings you snug against him.

"What about me?"

"You're so wet I can see it through your trench coat, honey."

You chuckle. You should have known.

"Sweetheart," you tell him, languidly wrapping your arms around his neck. "If you wish to pleasure me, you have to come home."

"Oh, so only you can do dirty things to me in my place of work?" he grins, hands sliding down to your ass cheeks, barely covered by the lace.

"That's right, detective." You kiss the tip of his nose. "Gotta have something to bring you home."

"I do have that," he replies softly, touching his lips to your forehead. "I'll come home in the morning, I promise."

Before you can answer, there is a hard bang on the door, followed by a call:

"Rockford, we brought in your suspect!"

His countenance changes: his eyes turn sharp, his lips austere, his shoulders squared. He is no longer your Tim; now he's Detective Rockford.

"I'm sorry, I gotta go - "

" - and you won't be home for breakfast," you finish his sentence with a practical shrug as you straighten out his tie for him. "I know. Go do your thing."

He dips his face down to kiss you.

"I'll be home," he renews his promise. "And I'll bring bread rolls from that place you like."

You smile against his lips, his warmth spreading through your body, your cunt bottoming out at the thought of a slow morning with him.

"I'll hold you to that, Tim."

He brushes his lips over your cheek, his breath warm when he whispers:

"Keep that underwear on."

[risustravelogue]

“hello, good sir. pardon the interruption to your leisurely rest, but have you seen this woman?”

a clink of mora passing between hands, and the vagrants studied the photo of a short dark-blue haired woman closely.

one of them answered with a rough voice, “a foreigner? lots of them been roamin’ around since the sakoku decree being lifted. can’t really remember well…”

another gold coin joined the other. the ronins talked amongst each others in inazuman as meirin tapped her foot almost impatiently.

“i guess she looks pretty distinct… might have seen her around, maybe in the capital.”

“are you absolutely sure?”

“chances are, she’ll be there. you said she was doing some commission work and stuff? if they could afford someone from overseas, they must have some good money. people with good money generally live in the main city.”

all general information, yet again. what do these people think we are, dumb?

the woman sighed and grabbed her husband’s hand before he could hand over yet another mora to the fifth group of vagabonds they’ve encountered that day, “alright. thank you for your cooperation, good sirs. we’ll be going n—”

“now, now,” the ronin who had been observing the scene from behind chuckled, hand inching towards their sheathed blade, “you both seem loaded, so why not throw a few more mora our way, eh?”

meirin frowned and glanced up at her lover before whispering, “is the welfare in inazuma that bad? why do they all say the same thing? what are these guys, npcs?”

“an interesting theory. are you suggesting that we’re in a game of sorts?”

“wouldn’t that be fun? in which case, i command you to bonk these npcs!”

“haha, as my dearest wishes.”

ミ𒆙𒆙𒆙

“— really! we really don’t know anything else!” the nobushi pleaded, visibly trying to struggle against the petrification to no avail.

the teashop owner sighed and pondered over the small teapot, before reaching into her bag with a soft smile, “i think you need more tea to remember, good sir… ah, yes, why not add the amount of jueyun chili in this one? and ground sand grease pupas for an added flavor! that should jog your memory!”

“wait, wait, please! i swear i don’t know anything! never seen that girl in my life!!” the man cried out, glancing back towards his friends who were laying out cold on the ground after a cup of… whatever devil’s drink that woman had forced down their throat.

were they dead? he had no idea.

and why the hell was the woman’s husband making himself home on their camp while having tea?!

clearly this couple wasn’t normal.

“look! i-i may not have information about the girl, b-but i’ve seen a weird-looking guy walking around these parts!”

“… a weird-looking guy?” meirin tilted her head.

the kettle sang on top of the portable stove. the man watched with quivering eyes as she poured the hot water into the teapot containing the 'concoction’. even from the smell, his eyes had started to water.

“y-yeah!! he’s got a mustache and wears this purple cape!! he looks like he’s up to no good if you ask me!!”

“huh… anything else?”

“uh. um……. n-no?”

“….”

“….”

“welp! special tea delivery! open wide~”

[ 𝚝𝚘 𝚌𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚑𝚞𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚎 𝚜𝚌𝚛𝚎𝚎𝚌𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔𝚐𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚌𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚠𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚊𝚡𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚌 ]

shoes crunched against inazuma’s soil as the pair trekked down the path towards konda village. perhaps once they’ve reached the settlement, they would be able to find some clues, or at least people who had seen kurisu. though their pace was deliberately slowed from all the venturing and questioning almost everyone they came across, it was always better to be meticulous and slow than careless and fast in these situations.

….. and on that note….

“xiànɡ gong, i love you dearly, but let’s try to be just as ultra-careful and not spend our money that willy-nilly, alright?”

“ah… yes, of course. my apologies, tiánxīn.”

@i23kazu - another ebg submission from yours truly!

I'm not sure how you'd count these, but there are 2 doodles on screencaps, 2 drawings, and 1 edit of a drawing (idt that counts as a whole piece?). Feel free to see for yourself!

230 words.

03. trying something

That morning…

“We’re here.”

“You! Boss-man! I challenge you to an Onikabuto fight!” exclaimed the young girl.

Itto cackled. “Bring it on!”

Kurisu smiled. “Haha… Have fun, you two.” 

She walked inside the tent. There, she found something glinting near one of the tent’s wooden pegs.

“What’s this?”

“Huh? A Vision? Whose is this?”

Kurisu walked out of the tent and approached Shinobu, who was walking down towards the tent.

“Kuki. I found a Vision near one of the pegs. Do you have any idea whose it is?”

Kuki’s eyes looked at the Vision, then to Kurisu’s face, then back to the Vision in her hand.

“A Sumeru Vision… hmm. Why don’t you try using it?”

Kurisu frowned.

“Odd idea, but how do I do that?”

Shinobu tapped her cheek. “Hmm. Try connecting with it, then focus on something you can’t do without a Vision. Since it’s a Hydro Vision, maybe try conjuring a ball of water floating above me?”

Kurisu nodded. She closed her eyes and imagined a big ball of water above Shinobu’s head.

“Amazing.”

She opened her eyes to find Shinobu poking the ball of water with her index finger.

And it popped, showering her green hair with glistening droplets.

“Ah! Cold!” she yelped.

“...”

“Wow, it is yours!”

“But…”

“... Kurisu?”

“But... But I—I’ve never—!!”

A horrified shriek echoed through the air.

“WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO ME?????”

[thedecoy-if]

I was just going to lurk, as I do with most IF blogs, but rude anons are rude, so to make up for it, have my ecstatic joy. (And, uh. Contrary to how I type, I'm super excited about The Decoy. Also it's after midnight now and I'm slightly tipsy. Apologies. And more apologies for the novella here.)

I love the isekai premise in all forms, and the premise you've come up with of being S's doppelganger is great! I've never seen it done before, so I'm really looking forward to plot.

I'm going to have so. much. fun. tormenting Azriel. Like, I usually wouldn't, but he just seems to be the sort of person others derive joy from fucking with. (Might I ask if MC could have pepper spray or a tazer? Might just be me, but I was always more comfortable with my pepper spray when working night shifts.)

Jonathan! We had some similar issues with one of my siblings years ago (thankfully never got to juvie type issues), so I felt for MC there. How involved is Peter in daily life of the family? Is he checking in on his middle sibling to make sure they're coping well with being the Responsible Adult? How long has their mom been "checked out"?

I love Clementine and Kenji. Even if they never reappear in the story (and I hope they do), they solidify MC's place in the world, outside of Family And Job.

And the time skip! I like how you did that, gives the reader a sense of the hours going by.

Azriel and that reaction to the sour candies... I love it. It's the imagery of a startled dog that gets me.

0/10 hospitality. You want a favor from MC, so you lock them in a dungeon? Great planning and foresight there.

I love Drenwin and Azriel's back and forth. I think that we'll get along just fine - when it comes to needling Azriel, anyway.

I also love that their capital is called Helena - it's my middle name, and given that I usually play as a fictional version of myself, it's very funny to me.

Okay, attacking Azriel is now my favorite choice. But - how would he deal with pepper spray?

I did the walk with Drenwin and Theoden, and with Namara and Theoden. It was funnier with Drenwin, but Namara's was more comfortable. The vibe I'm getting is that she's not willing to pretend to be MC's friend, or to be nice so that MC will help - that when she is kind to MC, it'll be because of the relationship built over time.

And yes, I did go back and replay the demo for this novella that I now present to you. You deserve it, Mae. Ignore the idiot anons, do what you do, go forth and prosper.

Also - I saw that this IF - or at least Drenwin, Azriel and Namara - are based on a novel you wrote? Any chance we could get snippets of that at some point? I love source material...

TL;DR Excitement! Good writing! World building! Love the ROs! Idiot anons are idiots!

Firstly, thank you so much for this! Your interest is so sweet and I'm glad you liked the demo ahhhh and don't apologize for the novella, I'm so glad you liked it enough to be interested!

(Might I ask if MC could have pepper spray or a tazer? Might just be me, but I was always more comfortable with my pepper spray when working night shifts.)

I didn't think of that (which seems wild in hindsight) but maybe in the next update I can add something of that sort and instead of the shard of glass scene, the flavor text can change!

How involved is Peter in daily life of the family? Is he checking in on his middle sibling to make sure they're coping well with being the Responsible Adult? How long has their mom been "checked out"?

We get more into this as the story progresses, but Peter has pretty much checked out in his own way. He drops by on the occasion, but he never checks up on MC in the way it matters. Part of is it guilt for leaving home and leaving MC behind to deal with everything, and part of it is just fear. He doesn't want to end up like their mother. He can barely stand to look at her. The probem is that he's become exactly what he feared. He shields it with layers of overprotection and care.

Their mom has been checked out since their father remarried. He's been absent for a long time but when he propped up with a wife, that's when she went full spiral. She never got over him. It's been about a year or so now. Her kids remind her too much of him and she's bitter she had to do the parenting alone. She sort of resents her kids (and they all know it.)

Okay, attacking Azriel is now my favorite choice. But - how would he deal with pepper spray?

Azriel isn't exactly, ahem, human so the pepper spray won't do much damage, I fear. Maybe just bit a brief nuisance haha. Also he's dealt with worse injuries, the stinging won't bother him much.

And yes, I did go back and replay the demo for this novella that I now present to you. You deserve it, Mae. Ignore the idiot anons, do what you do, go forth and prosper.

Thank you so much, this is so nice of you. I'll go currently cry happy tears in the corner now.

Also - I saw that this IF - or at least Drenwin, Azriel and Namara - are based on a novel you wrote? Any chance we could get snippets of that at some point? I love source material...

Yes! For now, a bit of tidbit:

In the source material, there's a character named General Hode who is actually the head of the operation and Azriel, Drenwin, Namara are under his direct command. Azriel is more demure in the story, a bit more of a push over. S In the game, General Hode was killed and Azriel is a bit tougher. Azriel was much more likeable in the novel hahaha but that's in part because he didn't have to have Eterna on his shoulders.

Your comments on the characters are so spot on, especially Namara's. I'm so glad you liked it and I can't wait for you to see more! Thank you <33

[providencepeakrp]

Today is the day many adults in Providence Peak have been waiting for. No, it’s not Friday yet. Okay, so maybe the second most-awaited day, but if you have been waiting for this day like most of our lovely city citizens, make sure you meander down to Mayor Harris’ table set-up at the Spring Extravaganza and drop your tickets into the baskets for the various raffle prizes offered below! Each person is allowed to purchase 5 raffle tickets for $10, with all proceeds going to True Colors Community Outreach program. May luck be in your favor this week!

If your character is joining in on this fun, please submit on discord in list format with the character name on top how your character spent their tickets. They must pick one prize per ticket, entering a total of five possible prizes.

Put Your Records On Vintage Basket

The Vinyl Countdown has gathered a beautiful basket full of records from the 1970′s in mint condition, accessories and cleaners that will help your record player run smooth as honey, a vintage Pink Floyd concert tee, and a gift card worth $30 to be spent in their store.

Benny and Duke's Unlimited (for a day) Game Card

Ever dream of owning a waffle maker from an arcade, but don't want to spend the money on the amount of games it would take to earn those 20,000 tickets to buy it? Never fear! Try your chance on a game card already pre-loaded with an entire day's worth of games. Just show up and play until your heart's content or until the arcade closes at the end of the night. Surely you'll make it to that offbrand waffle maker in no time!

Take a break with Take a Break!

A voucher for one free ‘anger management’ session is being offered courtesy of The Break Room. Add your tickets to the jar in hopes of a moment to destress and a chance to imagine a fancy ceramic duck is your coworker for an hour!

What's the Inside Scoop?

What would you do if you had a chance to name an entire ice cream flavor after yourself? Well, now's your chance to find out! If you win this prize, you'll have the choice of creating a unique ice cream flavor and choosing the name for it, whether it's after yourself or just something wild off the top of your head! This flavor will remain the special of the summer.

Good Pets for a Good Pet Basket

Treat your pet to the finest things in life with this basket courtesy of Good Pets. Included is a gift certificate for a free all-inclusive spa groom, a brand new leash and collor, a selection of bandanas, and of course, a wide variety of treats! You'll also find a $150 gift card to spend in the store as you wish!

Wine and Dine Basket

A specially curated basket by The Grape Escape that’s exploding with handcrafted cheese, grape wines, and a wooden board crafted for only the best charcuterie boards has been donated by the locally owned vineyard.

Explore Coral Cove

The entire aquarium to yourself for one night. This is it. This is the prize. A sleepover with your favorite aquatic animal, whether that's a shark, a puffin, or maybe even an octopus. Win this and you have the chance to experience what may lie in the ocean at nighttime — all from your very own sleeping bag! Included in this package are midnight snacks and space for up to 12 people.

Hookah You Up!

Everyone needs an afternoon off to just chill out with a group of friends and not have to worry about the stress of the week weighing on their shoulders. Win this and this dream will be your reality! Included is a free hookah session at Hookah Me Up for a group of five.

Wild Thornberry Coming Through!

Get absolutely feral for a chance to go behind the scenes of Providence Peak's most beloved animal safari park. Learn just how long a giraffe's neck is, feed the deer, pet the world's cutest monkey — and maybe you'll even get an up close experience with some of the biggest birds in the world. The possibilities are endless with this opportunity courtesy of Thornberry Adventure Park!

Romantic Evening for Two

Wine and dine that special someone in your life with a candlelit evening four-course meal in a secluded, romantic booth at Sultanim. Enter your name for a chance to snag a once in a date life opportunity!

The Jade Palace Presents: A Day at the Spa

Not only will you find bath and beauty products galore in this basket, but you'll also be treated to an all-inclusive spa day at The Jade Palace Resort. Take the day for yourself that you deserve and work those knots out by entering your name to win this grand opportunity.

Adult Toys and Accessories

Just because winter is ending doesn’t mean it’s time to stop spicing it up with your partner of choice. Condom Sense has provided a a brand new Rabbit vibrator, spring flavored lubes including strawberry jam, peanut butter, and coconut, and their specialty made toy cleaner to help the spice continue long into the warmer months.

Wake Up Call Basket and Sweepstakes

Tired of paying for a $7 coffee everyday? Well, with this prize you no longer have to! At least, for a year, anyway. Deja Brew brings you the chance to win a basket full of hot and iced coffee cups and accessories and an entire year full of free coffee! Limited one specialty drink per day.

2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E

Go the extra miles and save yourself some gas money on your commute courtesy of Choice Motors with the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E, a fitting eruption green metallic exterior and a sleek all black interior. A classic reimagined as a commuter's dream SUV. Time to find out if this will be your lucky year!

[calicohyde]

non-canon scene prompted by @typhonserpent

Evan hums under his breath as he methodically cuts clippings of mint leaf and rose petal from his divination garden box. The thick sweet and fresh scents fill the cool, damp air of his greenhouse in the silent spring night, the open window behind him letting the fog in from outside. The jazz tune is stuck in Evan’s head, some romantic old soulful thing that the defendant from his last case had been singing to himself for comfort in between his vain prayers. There had been a romantic old story to go along with it, told to Evan in a desperate bid to garner some mercy from him, but Evan hadn’t paid it any attention. It was hardly relevant to his interests. Evan hadn’t even needed to hex anyone that case, the jury already plenty biased against the defendant for his dark skin. Really, the system makes Evan’s job so easy he probably could be just as successful without ever using his magic at all. But then again. What would be the fun in that? Evan continues to hum the unfairly convicted man’s song, guiltless and smug, as he prepares his altar for completely unrelated spellwork. The Witching Hour is, as they say, nigh. Dried mint and sage go in the ash bowl, to be burned for clarity. The fresh mint he’s just picked goes into the mortar, to be ground and lend strength to Evan’s senses. The rose petals, while also an excellent aid for divination, are more for the purpose of representing Evan’s target. The silky smooth, creamy texture like her soft, perfect skin, fragile and helpless to his touch; the sweet, feminine aroma like the taste of her makeup and the scent of her hair… Evan’s breath picks up, just a bit, thinking about how much he’s going to learn about her tonight. This deep dark Friday night, in the birth hour of the thirteenth day of the month. It will be easy, even for someone who is not a natural clairvoyant like Evan (and how lucky he’ll admit he is for that), to think freely, to know, unbarred by closed doors or the contrived covenants of privacy. Evan sinks down to sit on the floor before his altar and waits impatiently for the chime that will signal his temporary release from even the few rules that have ever applied to him. Finally, the clock tower begins its slow warning toll. Evan had chosen this apartment specifically for the tower’s closeness. Certainly, chime hour magic has long fallen out of popular favor, but Evan has never cared too much about what's fashionable. Only for what works (and for him, everything does). Besides which, the supposed nuisance keeps a significant cap on the rent - an unneeded perk but certainly one Evan is, like with most things, more than willing to take advantage of. As the echoing gong of the hour fills his space and his ears and shakes out his mind to emptiness, Evan lights the leaves in his ash bowl with a match, the scritch of striking it adding to the aural atmosphere. He sticks one full fresh mint leaf into his mouth and bites down on it to release the oils, the stinging-cool flavor immediately coating his mouth and throat. The gong continues as Evan grinds into the mortar bowl with his pestle, the whispering crunch of the leaves inside turning to a shush and then to a squish as they crush up into an aromatic paste. He throws most of the rose petals over himself, some of them sticking to his braided hair, some balancing themselves on the shelf of his wide shoulders, some falling into his lap, all of them right where they belong - where she belongs. Two of them he keeps in his hands to feel the delicate, feminine texture. The twelfth chime finishes as the others fade, the compounded sounds from the clock tower dissolving slowly into the otherwise silent night. Evan breathes in the fog and the incense, and closes his eyes. It’s midnight, and he is alone, and the darkness closes in all around him.

for Gilded Verdict

Sign up here to be tagged when I post about this project.

@girlfriendsofthegalaxy @haectemporasunt @jezifster @blackhannetandco @fearofahumanplanet @godsleftarmpit @littlehastyhoneydew @rainbowabomination @antihell @isherwoodj @marrowwife @ashen-crest @wildswrites @ceph-the-ghost-writer @garthcelyn @muddshadow @cohldhands

[thedivineerotic]

What the Funk?!

Vol 1. Part 1

The Foundation of Vaporwave: SynthFunk Pioneers

Vaporwave has been one of my favorite niche subgeneres of music for years now and its easy to tell why. I'm an old soul that was born to relatively older parents who grew up in the 1970s and whose primes were in the 1980s and 1990s so soul, funk and rhythm runs through my veins in ways my peers were not able to understand and ostracized me for. Once I latched onto vaporwave, my ear was able to detect many samples from songs I had heard growing up and been exposed to new ones. Vaporwave is slowed-down (or what we in the South called “Chopped and Screwed” back in the day) synth funk and new wave tracks from the 1980s and early 1990s set to colorful nostalgic yet futurist aesthetics and anime from around that time.

It is where the past and the future meet in the middle and dance all night.

And it has become one of the loves of my life, discovering vintage music that makes you want to get up, dance and be happy.

Here are some recent favorites that I have been hooked on since the past year or so.

The System

Rhythm and Romance (1989)

Description: Coming from in my honest opinion perhaps the single most underrated act in funk and R&B in the 1980s, this album fits its title perfectly. Mic Murphy and David Frank are literally on fire in this album even though none of their past efforts left anything to be desired either. They were vaporwave before vaporwave was a thing. To me, their pop flavored, R&B blessed, synth funk sound and angsty romantic lyrics are quintessential vaporwave material. There is no way you can listen to this album and not want to move, not want to groove, not want to have fun. What they lacked in mainstream success, they more than made up for in giving us the textbook definition of a "buried treasure" in multiple projects that I feel privileged to have dug up. Though having already been making music together for the majority of the decade at this point, the duo arguably hit their zenith on this album and the groove tells it.

Standout Tracks:

Midnight Special

Soul to Soul

Have Mercy

Kashif

Kashif (1983)

Description: Here is another synth funk pioneer who didn't get near the mainstream appreciation that he should have. But being primarily a producer, its natural that he stayed relatively behind the scenes but this time he truly let himself shine through some of the grooviest, smoothest synth baselines you will probably ever hear in your life. His programming and keyboarding skills set the tone for later funkateers such as Teddy Riley and Babyface to take to another level in the 1990s. However, Kashif and this project stand as the prototype in its their own right with synth and baselines both ahead of its time and someone just right on time for his era. RIP to the Great Kashif and before falling down the rabbit hole of his productions for others, hear the man shine on his own in this vaporwave masterclass.

Standout Tracks:

I Just Gotta Have You (Lover Come Turn Me On)

Help Yourself to My Love

Stone Love

Loose Ends

Zagora (1986)

Description: In the abundant world of 1980s dance music, the Brits had something to say. And no one made it as loud and clear as the funk, house and R&B group Loose Ends. These folks produced some of the most addictive combinations of House music and synth funk ever heard on record and set the tone for House music to become the penultimate underground genre in the early 1990s with R&B House legends like Crystal Waters and Soul II Soul. Though their discography goes deep, this album presents them at maybe the height of their powers, delivering a world class synth funk album just before hip hop influenced New Jack Swing came the following year to take over the R&B music scene.

Standout Tracks:

Stay a Little While Child

Slow Down

Ooh You Make Me Feel

Shalamar

Friends (1983)

Description: Achieving perhaps the most mainstream success out of anyone on this list, it's easy to see why Shalamar is still celebrated as icons of early 1980s dancefloor scene to this day. In a time where supergroups still dominated the funk and R&B scene, these three forged their own path and released some of the funkiest grooves you will hear from around that time. What made their sound stand out came from their unique mixture of standard R&B and funk with the then-new new wave scene that was coming out of Britain. As a result, their music has stood the test of time and influenced vaporwave mixes produced by both Black and white, British and American lovers of the genre alike. In my opinion, this album is their most solid and serves to represent the danceable, funky feel of the entire 1980s.

Standout Tracks:

I Can Make You Feel Good

Help Me

There It Is

[myeventstore]

Behind the Scenes: Planning a Themed Party

Discover how to plan a themed party with our comprehensive guide. Explore the best themed party ideas, and tips for event lighting rental UAE, and audio-visual rental Dubai.

Introduction

Planning a themed party can be an exciting yet challenging task. Whether it's a New Year's celebration, a birthday bash, or a corporate event, a themed party adds an extra layer of fun and creativity. In the UAE, where events are celebrated with grandeur and flair, knowing how to plan a themed party is essential. This blog post will take you behind the scenes of themed party planning, offering insights, tips, and the best themed party ideas to make your event unforgettable.

Choosing the Perfect Theme

Selecting a theme is the first and most crucial step in planning a themed party. Here are some top themed party ideas to consider:

Hollywood Glamour

Roll out the red carpet and let your guests feel like stars.

Use gold, black, and red color schemes.

Set up photo booths with props for a true Hollywood experience.

Tropical Luau

Transform your venue into a tropical paradise with palm trees and leis.

Serve tropical cocktails and Hawaiian cuisine.

Play island music to set the mood.

Masquerade Ball

Encourage guests to wear masks and elegant attire.

Use dim lighting and candles for a mysterious ambiance.

Plan for a grand reveal at midnight.

Retro 80s

Bright neon colors, big hair, and classic 80s music.

Decorate with vinyl records and cassette tapes.

Consider a dance-off to iconic 80s hits.

Planning and Organization

To successfully plan a themed party, organization is key. Here are the steps you should follow:

Budgeting

Determine your budget early on.

Allocate funds for decorations, entertainment, catering, and rentals.

Venue Selection

Choose a venue that fits your theme and guest list size.

Ensure the venue has the necessary facilities and accessibility.

Invitations

Design invitations that reflect your theme.

Opt for digital invitations to save on costs and reduce waste.

Event Lighting Rental UAE: Setting the Mood

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the perfect ambiance for your themed party. Consider these options:

Best Lights on Rental in Dubai

From fairy lights to spotlights, the right lighting can transform your venue.

Use color-changing lights to match your theme.

Sparkulars and Special Effects Rental

Add sparkulars for a dramatic effect.

Consider a dry ice machine fog for a mystical atmosphere.

LED Screen Rental in Dubai

Use LED screens to display themed visuals or event highlights.

Great for interactive elements like video montages or live social media feeds.

Audio Visual Rental Dubai: Enhancing the Experience

A high-quality audiovisual setup ensures your party runs smoothly and entertains your guests:

Sound System Rental Dubai

Ensure clear audio for music, speeches, and announcements.

Consider a mixer like the Yamaha MG124CX for seamless sound control.

Extron HDMI Splitter

Useful for events requiring multiple displays, maintaining high-quality visuals.

Best AV Rental Company in Dubai

Partner with a reputable company for reliable service and high-quality equipment.

Entertainment and Music

Music and entertainment are at the heart of any themed party:

Live Performances

Consider hiring a band or a DJ from a reputable disc jockey store.

Use instruments like the Greg Bennett Guitar Avion or an electronic drum set for live performances.

Playlists and Music Themes

Curate playlists that fit your theme.

For a New Year theme, consider a countdown with special effects.

Catering and Beverages

Food and drinks should complement your theme:

Themed Menus

Design a menu that reflects your theme, such as Hawaiian dishes for a luau.

Offer signature cocktails that match your theme's colors and flavors.

Presentation

Use decorative tableware and serving dishes.

Consider interactive food stations for added entertainment.

FAQs

How do I choose a theme for my party?

Consider your interests, the occasion, and your guest list. Popular themes include Hollywood glamour, tropical luau, and masquerade ball.

What is essential for setting the mood at a themed party?

Key elements include the right lighting, such as event lighting rental UAE, and appropriate decorations that match your theme.

How can I ensure high-quality audio and visuals for my party?

Use professional audio-visual rental services in Dubai. Ensure you have a reliable sound system, mixers, and LED screens.

What are some unique entertainment ideas for themed parties?

Consider live music performances, DJ services, and interactive activities like photo booths or dance-offs.

How can I make my party eco-friendly?

Opt for digital invitations, reusable decorations, and locally sourced food. Partner with companies that offer sustainable rental options.

What are the benefits of hiring a professional AV rental company?

Professional AV rental companies provide high-quality equipment, technical support, and ensure your event runs smoothly.

Conclusion

Planning a themed party requires creativity, organization, and attention to detail. By following these tips and incorporating the best themed party ideas, you can create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Utilize the top services for event lighting rental in UAE and audio-visual rental in Dubai to enhance your event. Whether it's a retro 80s bash or a glamorous Hollywood night, make sure your themed party stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

[loopheadline]

Wedding Crashers Cast: Where Are They Now?

Who doesn't remember the gut-busting laughs and unforgettable antics of "Wedding Crashers"? This 2005 comedy flick brought together a stellar cast, turning it into a cult classic almost overnight. With Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn leading the charge as two mischievous bachelors crashing weddings for fun and, well, more, the movie quickly became a fan favorite. But what has the Wedding Crashers cast been up to since then? Let’s take a journey down memory lane and catch up with these stars.

The Dynamic Duo: Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn

Owen Wilson: John Beckwith

Owen Wilson, with his signature laid-back charm and quirky humor, stole hearts as John Beckwith. Since "Wedding Crashers," Wilson has kept busy, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

Acting Ventures: Wilson has continued to shine in comedies like "You, Me and Dupree" and "Night at the Museum" series. He's also taken on more dramatic roles in movies like "Midnight in Paris" and "Wonder," showcasing his versatility.

Voice Work: His distinct voice has made him a favorite in animated films, voicing Lightning McQueen in the "Cars" franchise.

Personal Life: Wilson has faced personal challenges, including struggles with depression, but he’s come out strong, focusing on his family and career.

Vince Vaughn: Jeremy Grey

The quick-witted and fast-talking Jeremy Grey, played by Vince Vaughn, brought an unforgettable energy to "Wedding Crashers." Vaughn has maintained a steady career in Hollywood, transitioning from comedy to more serious roles with ease.

Comedy Staples: Post-"Wedding Crashers," Vaughn starred in hits like "The Break-Up," "Couples Retreat," and "The Internship," often pairing his comedic talents with fellow funnymen.

Dramatic Turns: Vaughn has also proven his mettle in dramas such as "Hacksaw Ridge" and the second season of "True Detective," where his performance was widely praised.

Producer Role: Beyond acting, Vaughn has stepped into the role of producer, working on various film and television projects.

The Ladies: Rachel McAdams and Isla Fisher

Rachel McAdams: Claire Cleary

Rachel McAdams brought depth and warmth to the character of Claire Cleary, making her a beloved figure in "Wedding Crashers." Her career post-film has been nothing short of spectacular.

Blockbuster Hits: McAdams has starred in a slew of successful films, including "The Notebook," "Spotlight," "Doctor Strange," and "Game Night."

Award Recognition: Her role in "Spotlight" earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Diverse Roles: McAdams continues to take on varied roles, from romantic leads to action-packed parts, proving her adaptability as an actress.

Isla Fisher: Gloria Cleary

Isla Fisher’s portrayal of the eccentric and obsessive Gloria Cleary was a standout in "Wedding Crashers." Fisher has since enjoyed a robust career in both film and literature.

Comedy Queen: She’s appeared in comedic gems like "The Brothers Grimsby," "Confessions of a Shopaholic," and "Now You See Me."

Author: Fisher is also an accomplished author, having written several children’s books.

Personal Life: Married to comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, Fisher balances her career with family life, often stepping out of the spotlight to focus on her children.

The Veterans: Christopher Walken and Jane Seymour

Christopher Walken: William Cleary

Christopher Walken’s portrayal of the authoritative yet loving father William Cleary added a unique flavor to "Wedding Crashers." Walken’s career is legendary, and he’s continued to be a force in the industry.

Diverse Roles: Walken has taken on a variety of roles in films like "Hairspray," "Seven Psychopaths," and "The Jungle Book."

Television: He’s also made memorable appearances on TV, including hosting "Saturday Night Live" multiple times.

Enduring Talent: Walken’s ability to seamlessly switch between drama and comedy keeps him relevant and admired in Hollywood.

Jane Seymour: Kathleen Cleary

Jane Seymour, who played the seductive and slightly kooky Kathleen Cleary, has remained a beloved figure in entertainment.

Television Star: Seymour has continued to grace the small screen, with roles in series like "Jane the Virgin" and "The Kominsky Method."

Author and Entrepreneur: Beyond acting, Seymour has penned books and launched a successful lifestyle brand.

Timeless Beauty: Known for her ageless looks and grace, Seymour continues to be an inspiration for many.

Supporting Cast and Their Journeys

Bradley Cooper: Sack Lodge

Before he was a household name, Bradley Cooper played the villainous Sack Lodge. Post-"Wedding Crashers," Cooper’s career skyrocketed.

Major Roles: Cooper has starred in critically acclaimed films like "Silver Linings Playbook," "American Sniper," and "A Star is Born."

Directorial Debut: He made his directorial debut with "A Star is Born," earning multiple Oscar nominations.

Versatility: Cooper’s range as an actor, from comedy to drama, has established him as one of Hollywood’s leading men.

Keir O'Donnell: Todd Cleary

Keir O'Donnell’s quirky performance as Todd Cleary was memorable. Since then, he’s built a steady career in film and television.

Television Roles: O'Donnell has appeared in TV shows like "Fargo," "Ray Donovan," and "Legion."

Film Appearances: He’s also continued to work in films, often playing supporting but impactful roles.

FAQs About the Wedding Crashers Cast

What is the "Wedding Crashers" cast up to now?

The cast members have continued their careers in various directions, with many achieving significant success in film and television, and some exploring new ventures like producing and writing.

Did the "Wedding Crashers" cast reunite for any projects?

As of now, there hasn't been a full reunion for a new project, but there have been rumors and discussions about a possible sequel.

How did "Wedding Crashers" impact the careers of its cast?

"Wedding Crashers" was a major hit that propelled many of its cast members to greater fame and opened up numerous opportunities in Hollywood.

Conclusion

The Wedding Crashers cast from Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn’s comedic brilliance to Rachel McAdams and Isla Fisher’s unforgettable performances, has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Their careers have flourished, with many taking on diverse and challenging roles, showcasing their range and talent. As fans, we can only hope for a reunion or sequel to recapture the magic they created on screen. Until then, revisiting Wedding Crashers is always a delightful trip down memory lane.

[xasha777]

In the eerie glow of London's Victoria Embankment, under the shadow of the silent Thames, an unprecedented horror emerged. The midnight hour had struck, and the usual hum of the city was mysteriously absent, replaced by an otherworldly hum that vibrated through the air.

Victoria, a seasoned detective with the Metropolitan Police, was called to the scene. Her footsteps echoed on the cobblestones as she approached a cluster of police lights flickering near the water's edge. As she drew closer, the air grew inexplicably colder, a stark contrast to the summer night.

The officers on duty were unnaturally still, their eyes fixed on a bizarre structure that had appeared overnight on the embankment. It was a portal of sorts, pulsating with a haunting iridescence, framed by twisted metal that glinted under the street lamps.

Victoria approached the portal cautiously, her hand on her revolver. That's when they emerged—beings not of this Earth. Their skin was a ghastly green, eyes glowing with a predatory light, and heads crowned with eerie, luminescent halos. They moved with a terrifying grace, encircling the portal.

The creatures spoke in unison, their voices a chilling blend of menace and beauty. "We are the Guardians of the Gate, the watchers of the void," they declared. "The boundary has weakened, and we have come."

Frozen with a fear she had never known, Victoria watched as more of these beings appeared, each one more menacing than the last. They spoke of a cosmic alignment, a rare celestial event that had allowed their passage to Earth. Their goal was unclear, but their presence was an omen of chaos.

Victoria, gripping her revolver, realized that mere bullets would not deter such creatures. She retreated slowly, her mind racing for solutions when an ancient whisper in her ear guided her. It spoke of a ritual, long forgotten by man, yet etched in the memories of the river itself.

Gathering a handful of officers, she recited the incantations by the water's edge, her voice steady despite the terror gripping her heart. The Thames seemed to listen, its waters swirling with newfound purpose, rising to encase the glowing portal.

As the ritual reached its climax, the creatures shrieked, their forms dissolving into the ether from whence they came. The portal pulsated, then imploded, leaving behind nothing but a whisper of what had been.

Victoria stood by the embankment, the early morning light washing over her. The city had been saved, but the echo of the otherworldly invasion lingered in her mind. She knew this was but a respite. The gate had been opened once; it could be opened again. But for now, Victoria and her city were safe, guarded by the ancient spirits of the Thames, until the next celestial alignment dared to disturb their peace.

[darkmooncoffeeroasters]

Las Vegas Local Coffee Roasters: Dark Moon Coffee Roasters

When it comes to coffee, Las Vegas has a thriving scene with numerous local coffee roasters that offer unique and delicious blends. One of the best las vegas local coffee roasters is Dark Moon Coffee Roasters. Located in the heart of the city, Dark Moon Coffee Roasters offers a wide variety of specialty coffee drinks made from the finest locally sourced ingredients.

The Story Behind Dark Moon Coffee Roasters

Dark Moon Coffee Roasters was founded by two friends, John and Mike, who shared a passion for coffee and a dream of opening their own coffee shop. After years of experimenting with different roasting techniques and flavor profiles, they finally found their niche and opened Dark Moon Coffee Roasters in 2015. Since then, the shop has become a staple in the Las Vegas coffee scene, known for its high-quality coffee and welcoming atmosphere.

The Coffee

Dark Moon Coffee Roasters prides itself on using only the finest locally sourced ingredients to create its unique blends. The shop offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew. Each drink is carefully crafted to bring out the full flavor and aroma of the coffee beans, which are roasted in-house to ensure maximum freshness.

One of the most popular drinks at Dark Moon Coffee Roasters is the "Midnight Eclipse," a dark roast coffee made from a blend of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe and Brazilian Bourbon beans. This rich and bold coffee is perfect for those who prefer a strong and full-bodied cup of joe. For those looking for something a bit lighter, the "Cosmic Latte" is a great option, made from a blend of Colombian Supremo and Ethiopian Sidama beans.

In addition to its specialty coffee drinks, Dark Moon Coffee Roasters also offers a selection of tea and other beverages, such as hot chocolate and matcha latte. The shop also sells a variety of baked goods, including pastries, muffins, and cookies, all made in-house.

The Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Dark Moon Coffee Roasters is cozy and inviting, with a modern industrial design that creates a comfortable and relaxed environment. The shop features exposed brick walls, wooden accents, and plenty of natural light, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. The shop also hosts regular events and live music performances, adding to its vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.

Supporting the Local Community

At Dark Moon Coffee Roasters, the owners believe in supporting the local community and sourcing ingredients from local farmers and suppliers whenever possible. This commitment to sustainability and community support is reflected in the shop's menu, which features a variety of locally made baked goods and other products. By supporting local businesses, Dark Moon Coffee Roasters is helping to foster a stronger and more vibrant community in Las Vegas.

[tired-o-fighter-sideblog]

GO GO GO READ THIS

It has the tired effect (transness) in it

I'm the trans flavor

(midnight wrote all of the trans stuff i was just behind the scenes giving double thumbs up with a huge grin)

And We'll Keep Marching On Chapter 20 - Distorted Memories

AO3

(Im sorry its late but it's over 10k words which is a lot for my fics and I hope y'all enjoy!)(Also, big thank you to @tired-o-fighter for helping me with this one!)

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

Casey would never admit it. Not ever, not one word would ever be released into the wind, not even whispered to Raph or anyone.

But having Scrap made the trip so much easier.

The snow was a lot heavier at night and the lack of light made all the trees look the same and completely hid all the landmarks Casey had been using.

But Scrap had a headlamp, a really bright one, that clearly showed Casey the path. And along with that was his holographic map that had a helpful arrow indicator to help Casey know which way he was facing.

But he would never tell a soul how much the little bucket of bolts helped. Nope, not one person.

Even with the help, however, it still took him longer than he’d like to get to the little dirt road. He made up a little time on the packed dirt, pelting up it as his own breath puffed out of his mouth in massive clouds, but it still felt like far too long.

Scrap beeped quietly when the shack came into view, feet tapping on Casey’s shoulder as he let out a warble.

“All the fancy bells and whistles and you can’t speak English?” Casey panted as he crouched at the tree line. “Shut that off before he sees it.”

Scrap made an annoyed beep but his headlamp went dark, leaving only the dim moonlight for Casey to see by.

Through the cracks in the plywood windows, Casey could see the lights were on inside the cabin. He hissed at that, because if the old dude was up and about it was going to make it harder to get in and out unnoticed.

Scrap jumped down, for once not making a sound as he hunkered down in the snow and crept closer. Casey followed after him, mentally cursing his mostly black clothing, it worked great in the city year-round but out here? He probably stood out like…like a kid dressed in all black on white snow.

Scrap got to the house first, pausing under a window before slowly making his way towards the door. Casey made a sound, gesturing wildly at the bot to not try just barging in the front door. And, somehow, when he turned Casey got the feeling he was getting an ‘then what are we gonna do?’ look.

And…Casey honestly wasn’t sure. Normally he’d opt for a window but they were all boarded up and he didn’t see if there was a back door earlier.

But they were on a time crunch. He didn’t know what was going on with the guys but he doubted it was anything good. So he gestured for Scrap to wait and carefully slid his way around the shack.

He smirked when his hunt yielded a back door with a very old and rusted lock. Even if he hadn’t bothered to fully kit up for this, there were a few tools he always had on hand, especially after a few weeks of hanging out with the guys.

And, though he would never tell the guy, Donnie had taught him the value of always having a screwdriver on hand.

The lock was definitely broken by the time Casey was done with it but that was a secondary concern. It wasn’t like he was planning to come back anytime soon. He was gonna dig around in the freaky room he’d found before, hopefully get ahold of something to help the guys, and get out.

He carefully pushed the door open, thankful that it didn’t squeak on its hinges, and slipped inside.

The cabin didn’t look much better inside than it did on the outside. It was like when they’d first arrived at the farmhouse weeks ago, falling apart and abandoned-looking. The wallpaper was peeling, the wood floors were rough and splintering, dust stuck to the sparse amount of furniture like a coat of paint. And papers. Dozens of crumpled up papers and notebooks scattered over the entire floor.

Casey hadn’t paid them any mind before, assuming it was trash. Now, he curiously picked up a page and un-crinkled it. Dozens of numbers and letters greeted him, scribbled on top of each other, around complex-looking equations in messy scrawl, along with the words ‘stay awake’ written over and over in the margins.

Creepy.

Casey dropped the page again and continued towards the room he’d found before.

It was the cleanest place on the ground floor, in the fact that the papers in there were tacked to the walls rather than scattered on the floor and it was free of dust and cobwebs. Large desks were shoved against the two side walls, holding a host of gadgets, tools and gizmos that would look right at home in a mad scientist's lab. At the far wall was something large and bulky hidden under a cloth tarp, only a shiny steel base peeking out from the bottom and a podium next to it.

The book on the podium was what had caught Casey’s attention before. It was encased in glass and it looked really old, the spine creased and the cover worn and ‘Obturaclum Somniorum’ written on two stripes of painter's tape stuck to the top.

But what really made Casey run back here was the image on the cover, a triangle inside a circle, except the circle itself was made up of a bunch of simplified illustrations of animals. Most prominently, beavers.

Casey remembered thinking that was weird, of all the animals to put on a creepy old book, why beavers?

The question still poked at the back of his mind as he opened the glass case up and pulled the book out. He frowned at the weight in his hands, he’d thought a book as thick as this one would be heavier.

His hand reached for the leather tie keeping the cover shut.

He was interrupted by something banging loudly in the hallway behind him.

Casey spun around, letting out a choked sound when he saw the old man silhouetted in the doorway.

“You!” the guy squealed out, shuffling closer. 

Casey stepped back, eyes flicking around, trying to figure out the best path to freedom.

The old man ambled closer, still pointing, yellowing teeth almost bared in a snarl, “You….you ain’t asleep…why ain’t you asleep? They must’ve seen ya, or, or felt ya! ….unless…unless…”

“Oh, hey, lookit the time!” Casey carefully started moving to the side, pressing against one of the desks. “Hey man, really sorry about the intrusion. Just needed to get outta the snow for a sec, you know how it is!”

“You’re working with them, ain’t you?”

Casey, stupidly, paused mid-step, “Eh?”

The guy's eyes moved to look behind Casey…where there was a very open glass case on a very obvious podium. The guy's jaw clicked, eyes narrowing as his head snapped back towards Casey, “You are working with the Dream Beavers! Give that back!”

“Nope!” Casey jumped, barely dodging when the old guy charged at him “Geez, how are you so quick?”

“Give it!” The man demanded again, trying to grab at Casey.

He skirted around the attempts to snatch the book. Even if this guy was quicker than Casey expected, he had nothing on all the mutants and ninjas in New York.

Casey twisted away from a dive, planting one foot on the edge of a desk and using it to launch himself towards the door. He rolled his landing, keeping his momentum so he was running the moment his feet were on the floor again.

He heard the man screech behind him, the sound piercing and…almost desperate?

…well, Casey was too. He could bring back the book later.

All the crap littered around made it tricky to mad dash for his exit, but Casey managed to make it back outside with minimal stumbling. Cold air bit at his face and hands and more snow had fallen into thick drifts.

Casey focused on just circling back to the front of the house and in the direction of the O’Neil property. Scrap definitely heard the commotion so he would probably run towards Casey before he hit the tree line.

Well, he hoped so anyway.

Really, really hoped the little bot caught up before he got himself lost in the woods.

Casey waded through the ankle-deep snow, keeping a hand on the shack temporarily, just until he was back by the front door-

Except when he rounded the last corner and started to move away, the shack’s front door burst open with a loud motorized whirr.

Casey’s eyes went wide when he saw the old man stomp outside, hefting an active chainsaw as he turned on Casey, “You’ll never take me alive, ya hear!?”

“What the hell is- yeow!” Casey jumped back to avoid the spinning blade swinging at his head. “Dude! What is wrong with you?!”

“What?” the guy shouted, still swinging the chain saw….very, very clumsily. “I can’t hear ya over the saw!”

Casey frowned as he rolled under another attack. The only thing this guy had going for him was the fact he had the chainsaw, but he was kind of just wildly waving it around, his entire body veering with the machine on each swing.

It left the guy very open for a few seconds after each attack.

Casey moved back, planting his feet and gritting his teeth, watching as the guy wound up for another attack, ready to pounce when he had an opening-

The chainsaw suddenly cut off.

Because the old man had dropped it.

Along with himself.

And when he hit the snow, limbs twitching erratically, Scrap stood proudly on the guy's back, shock prong out and crackling.

Casey blinked, “....thanks.”

Scrap beeped, hopping off of the guy and tapping a foot to his head, making him groan. Casey picked himself up, dusting snow off himself as he made his way over. He kicked the chainsaw aside before using his foot to roll the guy over onto his back, “Okay, you’re gonna tell me all you know about these dream beaver things….without attacking me this time.”

The old man groaned, blinking hard as he stared up at Casey, “Hoooow’d you do that?”

Scrap beeped and Casey felt his weight crawl up his back and settle on his shoulder before a spotlight flicked on in the old man’s face.

He squawked, stiffly rolling away and getting himself to his knees.

Casey’s jaw ticked and he waved the book in the air, “Dude, my friends are in trouble! If you know somethin’, you better start talking before I sick the murder bot on you!”

Scrap beeped, low and threatening.

The guy squinted at Scrap for a few moments, then slowly turned to Casey, “Your…friends?”

“Yes!” Casey waved the book around. “My friends! They’re all asleep and we can’t wake ‘em up and the only thing that’s off is the crazy dude in the woods yellin’ about demons and not going to sleep!”

“I’m not crazy, I’m Bernie!” The man nodded…longer than was socially comfortable. “And your friends are doomed. Best stay awake so you don’t end up like them!”

Scrap beeped harshly.

Casey didn’t have a clue what he said but the sentiment of ‘what the fuck’ was universal.

And he very much agreed as he moved to crouch in front of Bernie and jabbed his chest with the book, “What the hell are you talkin’ about?”

Bernie swayed, like he was nodding off, then sat up again very suddenly, “So, see now, I was experimenting. I’m a physicist! And I was experimenting to prove the human brain goes…somewhere else when we sleep!”

Casey stared. There was no way this guy was for real…no, Casey couldn’t think that because he’d seen and heard weirder.

And this was his only lead so he let Bernie keep rambling.

“I got close too! All I needed…needed proof! But something went wrong…yes, very wrong. I accidentally opened some kinda hole and those dream beavers…they almost got through to our world! I had to stop them, keep everyone safe or they’d eat them! So I’ve been guarding the Obturaclum Somniorum for the last forty years! As long as it’s operational, they can’t break into our world!”

“The obtur-” Casey looked at the object in his hand. “The fuckin’ book!?”

Scrap head swiveled, blue scanner tracking over the book.

Bernie, finally managing to stand again, shakily pointed to the blue scanning light, “Hey, that won’t compromise my work, will it? They don’t regulate those robotic kids toys ya know. Lot of ‘em spontaneously combust!”

If Scrap was offended by the ‘toy’ comment, he didn’t acknowledge it. Instead, he projected a transparent version of the book, one that showed a collection of circuits around a flat object hidden inside the cover.

No wonder the thing felt so light!

Casey turned back to Bernie, grabbing the guy by the shirt front, “You are gonna help me wake up my friends!”

“Ah, no, no, sorry,” Bernie shrugged. “Tried that before! It’s why I moved out here, the beavers will invade the dreams of anyone who gets close to me and eat their nightmares until their hearts give out! It’s why I haven’t slept in forty years!”

Casey growled, grip tightening as he started to forcibly drag Bernie with him, “Well you better think of a way to wake ‘em up than. Because if they die? Bunch of beavers are gonna be the least of your worries.”

Scrap gave a threatening beep of agreement.

—-------------------------------------

Mikey kept himself firmly between Leo and the beavers, watching as all four leered at Raven.

Well, three of them leered. Dave grinned and happily slapped his tail against the ground.

“Finally some good food!” Orange beaver crowed, charging right towards old lady Raven.

Mikey watched, horrified, as she did not move out of the way, “Ray! Look o-!”

His warning turned out to be unneeded. Because when Orange got close he jumped, claws extended and ready to cleave into Raven.

Only for his entire body to accordion to a stop when he hit a blue field that surrounded Raven. Raven bared her teeth at him, rifle raising and sending the beaver rolling back again with a blast of red light.

“Still locking us out I see,” the red beaver mused, stalking over his fallen companion to circle around Raven’s force field. “I’m a bit hurt! We are just simple guardians of dreams-”

Raven leveled the rifle again, “Don’t try that kriffing story with me.”

“Ahhh, you’re not as dumb as you look!” The beaver reared up, slamming its paws against the force field. “But it doesn’t matter, I’m Dark Beaver, I always get what I want.”

“And how’re you planning to do that?” Purple beaver growled. “She’s still got that stupid shield, even in the shared dream space!”

“Why, it’s simple Dire.” Dark grinned, claws drumming on Raven’s shield. “We just have a little power snack to help us break it down.”

Four pairs of eyes snapped to the turtles, sparking hungrily.

Dire looked down at Orange, kicking his side, “Up and at ‘em Dread! Turtle soup is on the menu tonight!”

“Yes!” Dave bounded across the distance, barreling down on the cluster of the turtles.

Mikey bared his teeth, conjuring up his nunchucks again and dashing to meet the beaver halfway. He brought his chucks down on his head with a loud “Booyakasha!”

Dave groaned, stars dancing around his head.

“Great going Dave,” Dread muttered, standing up on his hind legs. “Maybe let the capable dreams maker do the work? Like always.”

Mikey edged back, spinning his chucks. He felt a presence move to stand next to him. Kinda short, had to be Raph.

His suspicion was confirmed when Raph’s voice muttered, “How the hell do you have your weapons?”

“It’s a dream dude, there are no rules!”

“Indeed,” Dread agreed with a smirk.

The manhole cover beside him rattled, drawing Mikey and Raph's attention. Mikey glanced over his shoulder for a moment, seeing Raph had his beak scrunched up and clenching his hands, probably trying to summon his sais.

Mikey opened his mouth to offer help when the steel cover exploded upwards, sailing away and unleashing a swarm of gangly, red-skinned, beady-eyed mutants.

“Squirrelanoids!” Mieky shrieked, scrabbling to shove Raph out of the way.

The squirrel mutants scattered about, some going after Mikey and Raph, a few splitting off to clash and bash at Raven’s shield, a couple dashing towards where Donnie and Leo were.

Raph shoved Mikey off so he had room to slug a Squirrlanoid in the jaw, “It’s just a dream! These things ain’t real!”

“But they’re still freaky!” Mikey argued, even as he joined Raph in attacking the dream constructs.

Blaster shots rang out, dissipating the Squirrelanoids as the shots landed. Mikey glanced over, grinning when he saw Raven’s mental shield was still standing strong as she laid down cover fire for them. 

She noticed him looking and barked out sharply, “Mikey, remember the stuff I’ve been teaching you!”

“Oh, right!” Mikey used the Squirrlanoid closest to him as a springboard, flipping up and landing on a fire escape. “Okay, focus, safe space, think of somewhere safe with walls-”

A Squirrlanoid hissed, taking a running jump towards Mikey. Only to be stopped short by an invisible wall.

“Booya! Nailed it!” Mikey cheered.

Hot air puffed right behind him and Mikey turned to find himself face-to-face with Dire Beaver.

Mikey squeaked, trying to move back, but Dire was quicker. A heavy tail smack shattered the meager shield Mikey had made and sent him flying back to the ground.

Well, technically, sent him flying into Donnie.

Donnie yelped as both of them were sent tumbling in a tangled pile of turtle limbs, “Mikey!”

“He snuck up on me!” Mikey defended as he tried to wiggle out from under Donnie. “I was focusing!”

“Clearly not well enou- ayyy!”

Donnie’s weight suddenly disappeared and Mikey looked up to see another dream projection had joined the fray. An oversized version of a mouser, one made from darker material and pointer teeth that had clamped down on Donnie’s shoulder strap.

An enraged shout made the robot turn, just in time for Leo to crash into the thing's head. Leo slammed his fist into the single glowing eye, breaking the glass and making the light inside go dark. The Mouser stumbled, dropping Donnie before toppling over and vanishing.

“Leo!” Raph’s voice barked from a bit away. “Get outta here!”

“Where, exactly, do you want me to go?!” Leo shouted back as he dragged Donnie and Mikey to their feet.

And didn’t that distract Mikey for a moment? Seeing Leo’s mouth move and proper words spill out, even if Leo’s voice was kinda squeaky for some reason.

Was that part of his nightmare? Him getting his voice back but it being wrong?

He didn’t get to dwell on that thought much longer, because there was a roar from an alleyway and a massive form came lumbering out. Mikey choked when he recognized the blue scales, spikey shell and black mask of Slash. Fear crept up his shell as the echo of pain zipped through him, the feeling of being totally safe with Raph to being slammed into the rooftop.

Leo planted himself between Slash and his brothers, hands clenching like he was holding something.

Mikey swallowed hard, starting to spin his chucks again as Slash approached, features becoming more and more frightening the closer he got.

Leo muttered something under his breath and his hands tightened. And, between one blink and the next, his hands went from empty to holding his twin katanas. The blades sang as Leo sliced through the air to meet the massive fist that came barreling at him.

The fear that tried clogged Mikey’s mind suddenly cleared, leaving him feeling invigorated as he cheered. He zipped around Leo, moving behind Slash and extending the chain and blade on his chucks, throwing it into an arc that cleaved down and dissipated the dream Slash.

“Impressive,” Dark rumbled from where he was still circling Raven’s protected bubble. “But it won’t help you much.”

Raven’s head snapped around from where she was shooting Squirralnoids, eyes furious as she snatched a pistol from her hip and sent a flurry of shots at Dark.

His form wavered like smoke but he didn’t seem phased by the attack. He merely snorted and his eyes started to glow.

Mikey spun, looking around for whatever was going to come at them next. Leo moved so they were shell to shell, one blade turning so Mikey could see it out of the corner of his eye.

And he really wished he hadn’t when the words ‘LAME-O-NARDO’ scrawled across the unblemished steel in bold, black block letters. Words he’d help mark Leo’s most prized possession with.

He heard a strangled sound from Donnie and a sharp inhale from Raph, and knew both of them had seen it too.

But they didn’t have time to dwell. Especially when a long, lithe form slithered from the rooftops, white scales gleaming and form growing larger and larger the closer to the ground she got.

Karai’s snake form loomed over them, maw opening wide to show rows and rows of razor-sharp teeth. One of the smaller snake heads on her arms shot forward, forcing the turtles to scatter to avoid being snapped up.

Mikey screamed as more squirrelanoids tried to grab him, claws scraping along his shell. The air above him shifted and Mikey dived just in time to avoid the giant mutant wasp that tried to stab at him. 

He looked around wildly, seeing more old enemies slinking and charging out of the alleys around them, forcing them all further and further apart.

Raph’s eyes went wide as a mutated Spy-Roach changed at him, saw whirring out of one arm and swinging to try to slice Raphs neck. Donnie was backing away from a monstrous version of Metalhead with pink eyes, clenching his hands like Leo had done to manifest his katanas. Leo was facing off with the giant Karai snake, keeping himself on the defensive but doing so meant she was free to push him around with her attacks.

Karai’s tail swiped out, slamming hard into Leo and sending him flying into a wall. The brink crumbled and Leo cried out in pain, making all the brothers turn with a unanimous shout of, “Leo!”

Mikey started to panic again, breath coming in quick pants as he tried to fight his way through the throngs of mutants, trying to get to Leo before Karai, before something worse snuck up on him-!

But there were too many, clawing and punching and kicking him further from his brothers. Mikey started to hyperventilate, panic overtaking him and making his chest hurt as he desperately tried to gain any footing-

Something shifted. The air itself seemed to stutter, then lightened.

And with the shift, everything froze except the turtles and the beavers.

And Raven.

She was glaring up at Dark, shoulders back and feet evenly planted. Dark was grinning, almost salivating as he loomed over her, “Well?”

“Agree to my terms,” Raven snapped back. “You stay out of their heads, I let you into mine.”

“What?” Mikey scrabbled up, trying to shove the frozen dream mutants out of the way. “No, Raven, don’t!”

“We have a deal!” Dark crowed, rearing up on his hind legs.

Mikey tried to wiggle his way between two squirrelanoids.

And then the ground gave away.

Mikey screeched as he tumbled down in an uncontrolled spin, desperately trying to correct himself.

He didn’t manage it, because his face planted solidly into a white metallic floor. And based on the thumps around him, the others hadn’t corrected either.

They all groaned but instinct forced them up, they were still in danger and could not afford to be caught laying down on the job! 

Mikey looked around and inhaled sharply as he took in the new space. White walls enclosed them on all sides, the only break being windows almost too far up the walls to see properly. Mikey could just make out eyes behind the glass. Big, solid black eyes that stared unblinking down at them.

Donnie let out a soft gasp, “What the-”

Mikey let his gaze move down again, looking around and finding….people. A lot of people. Their faces were blurred but the other details were almost exactly the same. Dark skin, short black hair, the same red clothing and black boots. Hundreds, in every direction Mikey could see, milling around in endless lines.

All but one, standing a bit away from the turtles.

Raven still looked as she had before, taller. older, wearing her white and muted purple armor. Her back was to the turtles and her gaze seemed to be fixated on something at the far end of the room.

But Mikey didn’t really care what it could be. He just acted, zipping forward and grabbing Raven’s arm, “Dude!”

Raven spun, eyes going wide when they landed on Mikey, “Wh-”

“Why’d you do that?” Mikey cried as he dragged Raven back towards his brothers. “They couldn’t get at you!”

Raven’s expression…broke. That was really the only way Mikey could describe it. Her mouth dropped open and anguish washed over her face, “No, they-” and then the expression shifted into one of rage.

Raven spun, shouting up at the windows of the room, “Hey! We had a deal! Why are they still here?”

Darks laugh echoed around the room, “I just said I’d stay out of their nightmares. You didn’t say I could throw them into yours.”

“You kriffing lying-”

Another voice echoed into the room, sharp and direct, “CT-five-eight-three-one, please report to the medbay for reconditioning.”

The mass of people around them shifted, splitting apart until there was a clear path to a large doorway. A…something stood there. It was tall, most of the height coming from its long neck, wearing a loose-fitting dress of some kind. And it had huge, black, dead eyes that seemed to stare into Mikey’s soul.

The alien's mouth moved, the words echoing from every direction, “CT-five-eight-three-one, we’ve found you defective, please report to the medbay for reconditioning.”

“What’s-”

Raph didn’t get to finish his question. Because Raven spun and bodily shoved all four of them into the mass of humans.

Mikey’s breath stuttered. Sure, he’d love to be around this many people day to day, but fifteen years of ingrained habits to avoid huge crowds weren’t easy to shake. But he could feel Raven’s hand on his shell, pressing him forward, guiding them all through the mess.

“Oooh, this’ll be fun!” Dire cackled.

The ground tilted, sending the group sliding back into the nothing space of freefalling for a few moments.

Dust clogged Mikey’s sinuses when he landed this time, making him want to cough but Raven was hoisting him up, dragging his brothers along and shouting for them to keep moving.

Shouting, because otherwise they wouldn’t be able to hear her over the screams of blasters and ship engines, of mental squealing as it was torn apart and of men crying out in pain.

Mikey looked around at…at the war zone they’d landed in. Dust clouded most of it but he could still see flashes. See more humans dressed in armor like Ravens, firing blasters at robots. There were different kinds of robots, most were thin and fragile-looking things that buckled under just about any attack. But there were also huge silvery robots, uncaringly stomping their way through the carnage around them and holding one arm up to fire angry red lasers at the humans. There were even bigger ones that rolled across their path before unfurling into terrifying-looking contraptions that mowed down anyone who got too close.

An explosion rocked the ground, a massive charge fired from a tank of some form, hovering its way towards a line one large machines that slowly walked on six legs.

Mikey stumbled, all the noise and smells and sights overwhelming him.

Raven’s hand shot out and dragged him along as she kept shouting, “Don’t look just keep moving! Move, move, move!”

Another giggle echoed around them, making Mikey shudder as Daves's high voice pitched in, “Oh, oh, I got one!”

The scene shifted, between one blink and the next they went from an active warzone to a low-lit room.

Raven skidded to a stop, looking around and Mikey did the same.

The room wasn’t that big…or at least, he didn’t think it was. It was hard to gauge how big the space actually was because of the box-filled shelves all around them. That was all there was here, aside from a lone person who stood before Raven. 

They were huge! Towering over all of them, their shoulders taking up most of the space between the shelves. They wore black armor with golden stripes, but the stripes kept shifting, the color and shape subtlety changing every time Mikey looked at it. Their face was mostly concealed, the only distant features being a smiling mouth with pointed teeth and huge, bright green eyes.

Raven’s choked sound was drowned out by Dark yelling, “What the hell is this?”

“Well, um, I-” Dave spluttered from… wherever the beavers were watching. “It felt like a terrifying one-”

Three groans drowned out Dave’s stutters and Dread's voice piped up, “That isn’t a nightmare you idiot! This-”

The entire room spun, sending the turtles and Raven flying apart.

Mikey, finally, managed to stick his landing and could instantly take in the new space. It looked like an interior. A really old one. He wasn’t sure what the walls around them were made of but it looked like it was falling apart. The floor under him was cracked and crumbling, and there was something large and glowing coming from the center of the room.

Raven was standing in the way, so Mikey couldn’t make out what was glowing but it looked like it was connected to some giant pillar and there were smaller ones that surrounded it-

Raven made a choking sound and was suddenly lifted off the floor and slammed into one of the smaller pillars.

Mikey felt his chest seize, he heard his brothers gasp, as some… nightmarish version of the Shredder stepped out from behind the central pillar.

He was taller than the Shredder they knew. And darker. Most of his form was shadowed, detail fuzzy or not there at all, the spikes along his shoulders shifting and morphing constantly. 

But some things were clear. The gleam of dark metal, vents on the faceplate that made it look like a skull motif, a subtle clanking sound with every step he took-

And his eyes. Bright, burning and red. Like someone had taken two flames and shoved them into the helm.

And with this…nightmare Shredder’s appearance, a dark feeling entered the air. Heavy and choking, like the shadows around them had started to physically press in and squeeze the air from their lungs.

Mikey spun when he heard a thump behind him, “Leo!”

Leo was on the ground, eyes wide and panicked and fixed on the Shredder, breath heaving in and out of his lungs in wheezy pants and his entire body shaking.

Raph was at his side in an instant, grabbing Leo and pulling him close, tucking his head into his shoulder. Raph’s fist clenched and suddenly his sai appeared, ready to attack anyone who got too close.

Donnie moved to plant himself firmly between Leo and the Shredder, eyes going white and finally managing to conjure his naginata.

Mikey looked back towards the center room, sucking in a panicked breath when he saw Raven kicking wildly, pinned by some invisible force and unable to free herself. He managed to make himself move, despite the feeling of death trying to weigh him down.

He let out a feral growl, throat too choked to manage his normal battle cries, and charged. The chain of his chucks rattled as he made a beeline for the Shredder, eyes flicking to the tubes plugged into his chest plate and helmet.

Maybe, if he could-

Something grabbed him. Something he couldn’t see or grab or hit but he could feel something akin to a massive hand slam shut around his middle. He cried out, kicking and trying to shove the crushing feeling away as he was lifted off the ground.

“Mikey!” Raph and Donnie cried in unison as Mikey was lifted up and slammed back into the ground.

He knew this was a dream. He could tell from the start that everything flying around them was always just a dream.

But the hits still hurt, still felt real enough. The impact made old injuries on his shell twing and he panted through the burst of pain.

The invisible hand lifted him again and Mikey looked up. His entire body felt like ice as Shredder twisted his hand. Mikey floated close, eyes getting wider and wider as Shredder’s fist closed.

There was a whoosh of energy as three blazing prongs unsheathed from Shredder’s gauntlet, tinting his dark shifting form a bloody red-

“Enough!” Raven roared.

Raven, and another, much louder roar.

The figure from before, the one clad in gold-striped armor, came charging out of nowhere. Literally. One moment it was just Shredder and the next a massive beast of a person was slamming into him and sending him flying.

Mikey dropped to the ground, landing on his hands and knees, breathing heavily as the feeling of terror and impending doom started to dissipate.

“Mikey!”

He looked up at the call, saw Raven standing, her rifle back in her hands and pointed towards the fight. She shouted again over the roaring, “Mikey, go help your brothers shield. You have to make a mental shield!”

Mikey picked himself up, watching in silent awe as Raven turned and started firing. Each laser hit true, forcing the Shredder back even more. Fog rolled in from seemingly nowhere, right next to Raven. There was a hum from it and blue light dissipated the fog, showing another tall figure.

This one was leaner than the first. Most of them were obscured by Raven’s body being in the way but Mikey could make out billowing robes, pointed, cat-like ears, a sword made of light-

Hands hooked around him and yanked. Mikey chirped in surprise, looking up to see Donnie had grabbed him and was dragging him to where Raph was pushing Leo further from the fight.

“We’re in way over our heads!” Raph snapped. “We gotta get out of here.”

“How?!” Donnie’s voice cracked as he panted out his reply. “If we could…wake up we would’ve….would have by now!”

“Dude,” Mikey hissed, reaching up to press his palm to Donnie’s racing heart. “Dude, you gotta calm down!”

“I- I ahhh,” Donnie heaved, like he genuinely couldn’t breath

“Shit, shit, Donnie,” Raph grabbed his brother, pulling him close. “Donnie, this isn’t real, remember? We’re just dreaming!”

“It feels real!” Donnie's voice cracked horribly at the end, making him crumple to the floor in a coughing fit.

Mikey stood, frozen again, not knowing what to do.

He looked to Leo, because Leo was the plans guy, Leo always had a plan ready to get them out of any situation.

Except Leo’s eyes were fixed on the fight going on behind Mikey, fixed on the huge, imposing Shredder that had somehow managed to make the air feel toxic and had somehow thrown Mikey around without even touching him.

Mikey spun back around, watching as Raven and the two unknown people kept pushing the Shredder back, away from where the turtles were huddled.

And then he remembered, remembered a quiet afternoon in the woods where he’d asked Raven how she shielded her mind.

“It helps to give things a form,” she’d explained. “Like, picture actual walls around your mind. Picture somewhere safe where no one can get you, and picture the people you know would never let anyone hurt you.”

That must be what she was doing now, calling mental versions of the people she was close to so they could protect her.

Mikey moved back to crouch next to Raph, “We gotta focus on Master Splinter!”

“What?!” Raph was starting to panic too, Mikey could hear it in his voice.

He pressed his hand hard into Raph’s shell and repeated, “We gotta, like, meditate but focus on bringing sensei here!”

“What the hell are you talking-”

“Just trust me!” Mikey shut his eyes so he could focus. “Just…think about Master Splinter! Imagine he’s here protecting us!”

Raph made a choked sound in his throat.

Mikey elected to not reply to it, choosing instead to focus inward. He focused on home, the warmth they managed to make in the middle of the dank New York sewers. He focused on the dojo, on the massive tree that sat as a centerpiece to it, of sunlight filtering down through the leaves.

Something thudded to the ground close by. Donnie gasped and Mikey felt him pressing in closer.

He focused on Master Splinter. On his warm eyes and gentle smile, the softness of his robes and fur, the feeling of safety whenever he was close by. Dark thoughts flickered at the edge of the vision but Mikey forced them away. He just focused on happy times, from before…before…

A roar shook the chamber, close enough that Mikey’s eyes snapped open.

Dire stood only a few feet away, reared up on his hind legs, face twisted into a murderous expression.

A wavering projection of Master Splinter stood between the beaver and the turtles, details missing, the edges foggy, but solid enough to send the monster back with a swipe of his cane.

Mikey grinned, a mischievous, almost feral thing as he muttered, “Yeah, take that you jerk.”

Behind Dire, the other beavers had shown up at some point. They were circling around Raven, trying to directly attack her. But the two figures met their blows, moving faster than physically possible to intercept each attack and knock the beavers back.

“No fair!” Dave cried out as he was forced back by the glowing sword. “You said we could come in!”

“Never said I wouldn’t fight back.” Raven snarled as she fired her rifle towards Dread.

Dark was slinking around, keeping low, letting the bigger person push him around the battlefield.

Mikey’s focus wavered a bit as he watched him, not liking how the ‘leader’ of the group didn’t seem to be contributing.

The larger figure spun a staff that crackled with electricity at the ends. They swung it more like a club than a staff, with massive and powerful arcs that left scorch marks in their wake. The person was still smiling, eyes sparking as they drove Dark further and furth back.

The person opened their mouth and a voice echoed in the chamber, “Ha! This is too easy! I won’t even charge you for this one!”

Except…the voice was…off.

It sounded garbled, like there was an undertone of static to it, distorting what the speaker truly sounded like. And Dark was at an angle that Mikey could see a huge grin forming on his face.

Dark scurried away from the dream person, climbing up a pillar before turning his head around and shouting, “Say, who’s that big ol’ fellow with the shock prod? Can’t quite seem to make out their face!”

Raven fumbled with her rifle before pointing it at Dark, “Shut your damn mouth!”

“Come ooon, we already have a name!” Dark vanished in a puff of smoke before reappearing on another pillar. “Chula Verd. Very exotic. But we can’t quiiiite see her face! Which is weird because she’s very clearly important to you!”

Dark vanished again before a laser bolt shattered the pillar.

Raven was shaking, breathing hard as she spun. The other beavers had started to circle again, watching the scene unfold with hungry eyes. All but Dire, who was still trying to get around the Splinter construction.

Dark stalked forward, moving to the taller figure, who had stopped moving at some point. She was still smiling, her eyes still shone brightly in the dark chamber. But her features were still shadowed, her armor shade still shifted like…like the exact color was unknown.

Dark stood on his hind legs, casting a massive shadow over Raven and her two guardians, partially purring as he said, “Can’t you remember her face?”

Raven was shaking harder, backing away as tears gathered in her eyes.

Mikey started to stand, ready to go help her. But Raph had a death grip on his belt. And when he looked, he saw Raph’s gaze was fixed on the projection of Splinter, eyes glassy and trembling almost as hard as Leo and Donnie.

Damnit, Mikey couldn’t help hold the Splinter protection and help Raven! None of his brothers were in any shape to fight back and he was pretty sure Raph hanging onto everyone was the only thing keeping him grounded.

Mikey looked back to Raven…but his eye caught something else.

He could see the second person more clearly now. What he’d thought were ears were actually flat horns that looked a lot like cat ears. They were blue, a darker shade down their scalp and lighter around their face. Their eyes were black, only a ring of amber irises breaking the darkness up.

But that wasn’t what caught Mikey’s attention.

See, stuff that was part of the dreams? Stuff he and his brother and the beavers and Raven manifested into the world? They had a certain look. Like something about them was shifted a little too much to one side or the colors were not quite as vibrant.

He’d known when his real brothers had appeared that they were real, not more memories pulled out of his mind by Dave. He’d known Raven was real, even if she looked so much older.

And the blue person in the brown robes, who had been fuzzy and desaturated and a little too far to the left…wasn’t anymore.

Their eyes were sharp now, focused, centered on Raven’s back. Their hand reached out, solid and real and in almost the same way the dream Shredder had reached before the invisible hands pinned Mikey down-

Dire roared and reared up, slamming both front paws down onto the projection of Splinter. The image shattered, dissipating into a deep maroon mist. Raph cried out, clutching them all closer as the tears finally spilled over.

Mikey could hear both Donnie and Leo breathing too fast and heavy, could feel Raph right behind them, could see Raven starting to waver, the barrel of her rifle dropping.

The bigger woman, Chula Verd, dissipated.

The person in the robes did not.

And Mikey wasn’t sure why but he looked at the projection that wasn’t a projection anymore and mentally begged. ‘Please, help us.’

Bright, amber eyes looked right at him, seeming to bore into his soul-

And then something shattered.

Huge white cracks distorted and shook the room. Mikey watched in equal parts horror and fascination as the world literally broke apart around them. He would have kept watching if Raph's arm didn’t hook more firmly around him and dragged his beak down into Raph’s shoulder.

“What’s happening?” Dread shouted over the sounds of shattering and cracking.

“No, no!” Dark screamed. “What has that idiot done!?”

“Wha- where- Hey!” Dave spluttered and stumbled over his words Which one of you is doing this?!”

“None of us are, idiot!” Dire howled over the noise. “The seal must’ve broken!”

“Of course it broke! This wouldn’t be happening if it was intact!” Dark’s voice cracked from how loud he was shouting. “Finish them off, now! Before-!”

There was a pop.

And then everything went black.

And the next thing Mikey knew, he was blinking drowsily, laying on his shell, staring up at an old, peeling, water-stained roof.

One that was definitely real.

Mikey sat bolt upright and regretted it in an instant when his entire body twinged. Like he was sore from training but he knew he hadn’t done any in a while.

Or had he?

“Casey!”

April’s panicked voice made Mikey look up. His eye went wide when he saw Casey in the doorway to the room and a massive white crack. Fog was leaking out of it, soft technicolor floating down to the floor before dissipating.

Mikey rolled, trying to get to his feet but his muscles ached and his chest felt like it was on fire. So he could do little else but get to his knees and watch as the crack started to glow, brighter and brighter-

And then it was gone, leaving behind an open book and four, multi-colored beavers.

Who were much, much smaller than they had been in the dream world.

All present company blinked down at the four normal-sized beavers now sitting in the house. Hell, now that Mikey was looking, he was pretty sure they were smaller than normal beavers.

Dark’s tail slapped the ground angrily as he snatched up the book, metal pieces fell out when he did and that just seemed to make him angrier, “What idiot went and destroyed the seal?! Now we're stuck here with no power!”

“What?!” Mikey jumped at the unfamiliar voice and yelped when an old man shoved Casey out of the doorway and stared down at the knot of beavers. “You’re telling me I’ve been protecting the world from plush toys?!”

“Because you’ve been starving us you fool!” Dark chucked the book at the man, but it only bounced harmlessly off his shoes. “These idiots were our first meal in years!”

Mikey blinked as Dark kept stomping around and yelling. It was…kinda weird, going from being terrified of the guy to watching him throw a tantrum.

Dread rolled his eyes and ambled over to the book, “Well let's just go back to the dream world and start over.”

“We can’t you idiot!” Dark’s tail smack Dread in the side. “That seal was the only thing maintaining the connection between our world and this one! And this idiot broke it!”

“So he can fix it!” Dave stood on his hind legs and pointed a claw at the old man. “Hey, you, do what you did before when you opened the gateway between our worlds!”

“Shut up Dave!” The other three shouted in unison.

Old guy was not listening to them in the slightest, he was staring at the book and muttering under his breath.

There was a low, long beep at Mikey’s side and, when he looked down, he saw Scrap stalking his way towards the beavers. The sound got their attention, four pairs of beady eyes whipping around as the long beep started to get louder.

Scrap's ears wiggled moments before he charged, leaping on top of Dread and jamming his shock prod into the beaver's back.

Dread squawked in pain and rolled, managing to get Scrap off his back, “What the hell is that?!”

Scrap let out a series of beeps that sounded like an evil laugh, picking himself up and crouching to pounce again.

“Every beaver for themselves!” Dire howled as he scampered out the door. Dave and Dread were right behind him, leaving only Dark to face off with Scrap. He looked at the bot, at the people surrounding him, at Casey when he pushed his way back into the doorway with a baseball bat at the ready.

He growled, tail giving one last angry slap before he scampered after the others.

There was quiet for a few moments.

Then Scrap bewooped and sprang over to Mikey, scanner glowing and ready.

“Oh my god,” April breathed from where she was sitting, a dazed and confused Donnie partially in her lap. “Oh my god, you’re all okay!”

Donnie groaned, curling onto his side and holding his chest, “Don’t feel like it.”

“Oh, yeah, the beavers cause their victims to have heart attacks!” the old man piped in, far too cheerily. “Good thing you’re a hallucination!”

Casey gave the man a very, very unimpressed look, “Right…well, you can go now.”

“You’re right!” the man nodded and walked out of view, voice loud enough that Mikey could still hear him. “The beavers are defeated! I can finally return to my real work! And this time I’ll be-”

He cut off suddenly with a loud thump.

Casey groaned, “He passed out.”

“Who?” Raph's voice croaked out.

Casey waved a hand, “Don’t worry about it. Hey, Red, help me get him in the van!”

“Now?” April hissed, gesturing to the room at large.

“They’ll be fine for a few minutes. Plus, do you wanna put up with this wack job any longer?”

April made an aggravated sound in her throat, looking down at Donnie. He nodded slowly, gingerly pushing himself into a sitting position, “W-we’ll be fine. I…I don’t think any of us….actually had a heart attack.”

“You sure?” Mikey couldn’t help but ask.

Leo made a raspy chirp of agreement.

“Scrap…can do scans,” Donnie limply gestured towards the door. “Just…get him outta here…before he…wakes up.”

April still looked hesitant but she nodded and got to her feet. Casey grinned, shooting a finger gun towards Donnie, “Ay, glad you didn’t get eaten by beavers dude!”

Donnie groaned, moving so he could lean on the bed, “Thanks.”

Mikey let his attention wander now, taking in his brothers and their surroundings. They were all in Leo’s room and the first rays of dawn were peaking their way in through the blinds.

Leo was curled up on the bed, lightly trembling and hugging his chest but his eyes were open and alert, flicking between Mikey and Donnie. He let out a questioning chirp and Raph dragged himself out of his nest to slowly crawl onto the bed with an answering churr of comfort.

The sounds soothed Mikey’s racing heart a bit. Scrap finished up his scan and moved on to Donnie, beeping as he started it up again. Donnie nodded, a bit numbly but he managed to focus on the little bot and ask, “Show me….when you’re done?”

Scrap beeped a ‘yes’.

Mikey frowned, twisting to look around the room. If Scrap was here then Raven couldn’t be much further. And she had been in the combined dream too so she had to be-

He spotted her in the furthest corner of the room, back in the teen form that Mikey was familiar with, curled up in a tight ball, using her arms to hide her face and shivering.

Mikey felt his chest twing, torn once again between his friend and his brothers. He looked back towards the bed, where Scrap had clambered up and started scanning Leo. Raph had managed to drag himself next to Leo and Mikey was pretty sure the only reason he hadn’t snatched Leo up in a hug was because Scrap was working.

He looked at Donnie, hoping for some kind of solution. But Donnie was still wheezy, leaning on the side of the bed with his eyes closed and a hand pressed to his chest.

Mikey debated in his head. He had questions for Raven, like, was she okay, was her chest on fire too, what was up with all those freaky dreams!

Not to mention the…other thing…

Mikey looked back at Raven and swallowed, “Ray-Ray?”

Her arm shifted, just enough for one wide eye to peek out, red and watery and tear tracks running down her face.

Mikey swallowed, trying to figure out what to say.

Raph beat him to the punch, twisting around so he could stare at her, “How the hell do you know the Shredder?”

Raven blinked, then slowly lifted her head from her arms. Her voice was thick with emotion and smothered cries when she asked, “Who?”

“That guy in the last…the last guy,” Raph huffed out.

“Yeah,” Donnie turned, draping his upper body over the bed so he could look at Raven too. “How…how do you know….about him? ….and why does…he look like…that in your head?”

“He doesn’t go by ‘Shredder’,” Raven rubbed her face in a vain attempt to push her tears away. “He’s just Oroku. He’d pop up in our designated sector a lot and we’d have to deal with him.”

“That…that doesn’t make sense,” Raph grumbled. “Shredder doesn’t look like…that! And you said you’ve never heard of Earth.”

Raven shrugged, “Pretty sure he’s not from Earth.”

Raph started to throw his hands in the air.

Then aborted the motion halfway there, curling his arms back around himself with a soft, “Ow.”

Mikey frowned, brow furrowing as he tried to puzzle this out. Because that had clearly been the Shredder, even if the details were fuzzy and he was cast mostly in shadow…

A thought occurred to him.

One he quickly voiced to the rest of the room, “What if she’s from another dimension?”

All eyes turned to Mikey, each varying versions of confusion.

Mikey cleared his throat awkwardly, “Like…you remember when we went into that Kraang hallway of portals? We saw a bunch of places and one of them was other versions of us.”

“What’re you….gettin’ at?” Donnie asked.

“Just..I dunno. There were other versions of us so…why not another version of Shredder?”

Raph groaned and buried his head in his hands, “Great, dimension-hopping beavers, Kraang and now super soldiers.”

“It…would explain a few things,” Donnie mused quietly. “But…we don’t really….have a way to….to test.”

“The hell are you all talking about?” Raven’s voice was pitched higher than normal.

“Alternate realities,” Donnie explained. “It’s…not something …I know a lot about but…the Kraang do so…maybe the ship has something?”

“That freaky Shredder didn’t come here with you, right?” Raph snapped. “One is more than enough.”

Leo, still lying prone but following the conversation with his eyes, curled up more when Raph mentioned the Shredder, tucking his head down between his shoulders as much as the bandages would allow.

Raven shook her head and sniffed, “No, he would’ve shown up by now. And then there was…that…portal-” she hiccuped and more tears spilled over. “Gods, kriff, shab, olsik….stop it, shit, damnit-”

Mikey frowned deeper, pulling himself fully to his feet and slowly moving toward Raven. He sunk to the floor next to her, leaning into her side. Scrap moved as if to follow, pausing on the edge of the bed and shifting uncertainly, likely trying to decide between presenting his scans to Donnie or comforting Raven.

Mikey held up his hand in a ‘wait’ gesture before turning to Raven. He tilted his head so it rested on her shoulder and, in his most solemn of tones, said, “You shouldn’t swear. There are children present.”

The room went quiet.

…then Raven giggled, a wet, choked giggle but a genuine giggle. She rubbed at her eyes, shaking her head, “Mag would kriffing adore you.”

“I’m irresistible,” Mikey agreed.

He smirked when the reply elicited groans from his brothers. Scrap gave a cheery beep before turning and projecting his scan to Donnie.

The quiet returned for a bit, but it was thankfully lighter now.

After Donnie examined the scans he spoke, “Okay…looks like we didn’t actually have heart attacks…I think….but we should still take things easy for a bit.”

“Yeah,” Raph agreed. “....anyone wanna watch Mikey’s dumb show?”

“Excuse you,” Mikey huffed. “Crognard is an awesome show and you know it.”

Leo let out a breathy little laugh.

—------------------------------------------------------

By the time Casey and April came back, they’d all moved to the living room. Mikey and Raven had placed themselves in charge of snacks and Raven put Scrap on ‘make sure these three stay still’ duty. 

Crognard had ended a while ago, but this particular channel aired a lot of old shows and Mikey was secretly hoping an episode of Space Heros would come on and chase away the wary look that Leo couldn’t quite seem to get rid of.

Casey and April showered before joining them and Mikey felt a small thrill that April was finally not hiding from them. She’d been acting weird ever since the Mom-Thing incident…which was fair but, come on, she knew they weren’t gonna judge her!

Scrap had gone into rest mode at some point, curled up in Raven’s lap like a little metal cat. Mikey absently wondered if he should go grab Ick before remembering it was still morning and she liked to nap during morning.

Leo was tucked up in the armchair, Raph sitting on the floor next to it, while April, Donnie and Raven held spots on the couch. Casey had settled in the rocker, which left Mikey sitting on the floor, next to Raven’s leg.

They’d gone quiet, just relaxing and enjoying the shows.

There was a marathon of shorts playing now, of a big ugly bird trying to trap a puppy so he could eat it, but the pup was far too quick and kept messing up the bird’s traps.

The fifth time the ugly bird tumbled down a ravine, a thought occurred to Mikey.

He leaned back so that he could rest his head on the couch and look up at Raven, “Hey?”

Raven glanced down, raising an eyebrow with a quiet, “Hmm?”

“The person in the dream Dave made?”

Raven’s face pinched for a moment, “....what about her?”

“You conjured her to protect you,” Mieky said slowly. “Buuut you felt scared in that memory?”

Raven shrugged, “I mean, that was when I told her I was a woman. It was pretty terrifying.”

Mikey blinked, “...why would that be scary?”

“Seriously?” Casey’s voice made Mikey lift his head again. “Come on dude, doesn’t matter how nice the people around you are. Coming out is scary as hell.”

Mikey blinked again.

Raph sat up from where he was slumped against the armchair, “The heck are you talking about? Coming out of where? A storage room?”

“More like a closet,” Casey snickered.  Than stopped short when he noticed no one else was laughing, “Wait, you’re serious?”

April frowned, slowly turning to Raven, “You’re…gay?”

“Uh,” Now Raven looked confused. “Like, happy?”

“Oh my god, she trans!” Casey groaned. “How did none of you figure that out? She makes, like, zero effort to skim around that! Donnie, aren’t you the smart one?”

“Trans…trans what?” Donnie asked. “What is she crossing?”

“Oh my god!” Casey repeated. “Seriously? Did all of you grow up under a rock?”

Several pairs of eyes gave Casey a flat look.

Then April’s widened in realization, “Oh! You’re…oh….oh?”

“Excuse me?” Raph growled. “Does someone want to please explain what you’re all talking about?”

Casey stared at the turtles, “You know, transgender? LGBTQIA?”

“Oh, is that’s what it’s called here?” Raven asked. “Yeah, that’s a good name.”

“What do you call it?” Casey said.

“Well….a lot of worlds have different names and…some don’t translate well. Commander Verd and I used the term gender transcendence.”

“Yeesh,” Casey hissed. “That’s a mouthful.”

“Yeah, transgender is much better.”

“Hello!” Raph barked out. “Can someone please explain already?”

Leo nodded in agreement with a quiet, “Hai, hrrrmm….hai?”

Casey rolled his eyes, “It’s not that complicated. Raven was cloned after a dude but she’s not a dude. Right?”

Raven shrugged, “Pretty much.”

“You can just…do that?” Donnie asked. “Pick if you want to be a boy or a girl?”

“It’s…not exactly a choice,” Raven started slowly. “I mean, in Tipoca City, all we knew was what the Kaminoans taught us and self-expression of our identities wasn’t something they encouraged. But when I was deployed, I experienced a lot of things very quickly, saw a lot of things too. I always felt…not wrong or incomplete just…not fully myself I guess? It’s hard to explain but I eventually figured it out. Commander Verd and General Astra helped me as much as they could, no one was sure how the command for the GAR or the long necks would react so we decided to not risk the surgery and hormone treatments at the time. But when we were stranded, Crow offered the corrective procedure so I thought, why not?”

“Fyi?” Casey piped up. “Us Earthlings call it ‘gender affirming surgery’.”

“How do you know all this?” April asked. “We’re the same age and I don’t know all that.”

“Well, firstly, I’m Bi,” Casey stated. “Second, why don’t you know this? It’s twenty-thirteen, there’s loads of info on the internet!”

“I…um,” April flushed.

Donnie got to his feet, moving out of the room and muttering, “Where’s my laptop?”

“Let me know if you want help filtering Don!” Casey hollered after him.

Mikey looked between Casey and Raven before settling on Casey, “What’s Bi?”

“Means I’ll date boys and girls,” Casey explained. “Figured it out when I was, oh, thirteen? But seriously, how do none of you know about LGBT-plus?”

“Dude, we never left the sewer until a year ago!” Raph threw his hands up in exasperation. “Gha, why are humans so…so complicated!”

Casey cackled, “Get used to it Raphie! Because when Don gets back I am educating all of you!”

“Casey…educating,” April shook her head. “That’s a first.”

“I’m full of surprises Red, should give me a chance more often.”

April just rolled her eyes and settled back into the couch.

Mikey tipped his head back to look at Raven again, “But she was nice, right? When you told your commander?”

Raven smiled, soft and sad in equal parts, “Yeah…yeah, she supported me from day one.”

“Cool,” Mikey turned so he could fold his arms on the couch cushions. “I hope she shows up soon, I wanna meet her.”

He expected Raven to reply, say that Commander Verd would like him too, or talk about her more.

But Raven remained quiet, hand petting absently over Scrap as her eyes stayed fixed on the TV.

Mikey frowned but decided to not dwell. Instead, he tucked his shell into the nook made between Rave’s leg and the couch and waited for Donnie to come back so they could get educated about LGBT…LG…LQI…

He was gonna have to get Casey to write it down somewhere. That was a lot of letters to remember.

He glanced around one more time, gauging reactions. Raph still looked huffy, but Mikey was pretty sure it was because it took so long for Casey and Raven to explain. April had moved on, absently watching the TV like she had before.

Leo…looked pensive, eyes fixed on Raven.

Mikey decided to shrug it off. Leo always did like to mull over new information, especially new information about humans. This was definitely no different and he’d move on once Donnie came back with his laptop.

[penig]

When I first read Dracula, lo these many years agone (40 or so; I wonder who lives in that house now, where in the winter the cold was cupped inside like something precious and I read curled up in bed at night or in a chair in the sunroom?), I came away astonished at how good it was, yet a bit disappointed by the climax. It seemed anticlimactic to me, raised with cinematic climaxes even in my books; so many pages, so much tension, dissipating on the turn of two sentences into dust and Quincy’s blood on the snow and the minions and wolves sensibly fleeing into darkness as the sunset falls on Mina’s stainless forehead, and Mina didn’t get to use her gun.

Today, I feel very differently about it.

Today I have been crammed full of long, drawn-out, cinematic climaxes. I revolt against them; I begin to think about the lines in the restroom and will the mid-credit scene be worth the sitting? (It won’t.)

Also, today I have participated in Boss Fights many times; and this is how they go.

I played D&D back then, but it was a very different flavor of D&D, all dungeon crawls and party composition shifting randomly depending on who showed up, no continuity to speak of, no goal but to fight the next monster, solve the next puzzle, loot the next treasure, pile up the experience points for that next hard-earned level. It was fun but it had no pay-off, no plot, very little strategy because next session would be entirely different, or even teamwork, because next week Charlie’s parents would be visiting and he wouldn’t be able to come and the DM would have a research paper due so you’d be in a different dungeon with the person currently playing the 12th level monk behind the screen, running a dungeon he’d generated to test a computer program he’d written for his Trash-80. Whether you were fighting a horde of orcs or a Huge Ancient Red Dragon or even the actual BBEG at the bottommost level of the dungeon, you and your ragtag group of adventuring buddies would have at most a patchwork history with the enemy or the rest of the party or the dungeon itself. The thief would listen at the door and check for traps, you’d go in, and you’d do the best you could. And that’s not a boss fight.

No, for a Boss Fight, you have known for some time that you’d be coming up against the BBEG whose evil machinations have been making you tear your hair out since Level 1, whom you loathe with every fiber of your being even if you haven’t ever laid eyes on them before - you, and your seasoned party of close comrades. You know what they can do and you know what each and every one of you can do and you have discussed to death every countermeasure, every contingency. You have poured out your treasure like water to have the right equipment, the right buffs, the right protections in place. You have bribed and intimidated and persuaded and scryed and spied and burned the midnight oil to have every scrap of intelligence it is possible to glean. You have deployed your forces to maximize their effectiveness. Your game mechanic and your rules lawyer have found the exploitable loopholes and closed the loopholes the DM was hoping to exploit. You’re all of one mind. You’re ready.

You go in. You roll initiatives. You move, in deadly unity of purpose, you each do your job, you strike, and some of you miss and some of you hit and the BBEG’s minions try to distract you but you will not be distracted and They Are Gone, The Evil is Defeated and most of the time? If you did it right? If the dice aren’t cursed and the game mechanic and the rules lawyer are any shakes at all? The party is unscathed, the BBEG never got off a single attack. Anybody who did take damage probably got it from a trap or a minion, and it was probably a sacrifice move on the PC’s part to enable a bigger gun to get their hit in or to make sure that the PC’s own attack lands with full force on the actual target, denying them any chance of escape, recovery, or retaliation.

And Team Get Dracula did it letter-perfect.

The only reason Quincey died was because the mechanics of the system in use didn’t allow for massive HP accumulation or magical healing. Jonathan straight-up critted his Intimidation rolls so he didn’t have to deal with minions at all; one minion critted on Quincey and got through his parrying rolls and Quincey either didn’t have a mulligan left or decided to use it in a way that ensured he’d reach the coffin, when according to the mechanics evading the crit would have cost him either a precious round of movement or the to-hit bonus he was counting on to make the heart-strike.

 And Mina didn’t get to use her gun but that’s okay, because she knows, and they all know, but no one will say out loud, that if the plan didn’t work, if it came down to her using the gun, it would have been part of failing, or at best of Pyrrhic victory. In the circumstances of this combat, Mina was the weakest link. If the sun had gone down on Dracula, odds are good that his first act would have been to exert (or try to exert) control of her. She was inside the protection of the holy circle which might or might not have worked to protect her. She was bait, and distraction, and part of a Hail Mary play, and she knew all about that. She was the game mechanic and Van Helsing was the rules lawyer. Probably she had a Charisma-based feature that allowed her presence to provide bonuses to die rolls. She had done her bit in the planning and organizing and information-gathering stages. I have been in the Mina position and let me tell you, the satisfaction isn’t any the less for not having had to roll a single attack.

This time around, I am satisfied.