#marla master

[theunderestimator-2]

Gerard van Herk (guitar and vocals) and Tony Dewald (drums) of Déjà Voodoo onstage and backstage at the Cat's Paw, probably in fall 1982, photographed by Marla Master.

Inspired by The Cramps, the cult Montreal-based duo developed a distinctive style which they termed "sludgeabilly”, blending their primitive, swampy and minimalistic psychobilly/garage punk sound with `50s horror themes and surreal, dark humour. Struggling to find an audience, they eventually launched Og Records to promote their stuff but never managed to break into the mainstream markets, remaining under the radar till the day they split up in 1990.

Both Tony and his wife were diagnosed with cancer only months apart -both for a second time, ffs-, so here's a GoFundMe link for anyone that wishes to help: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-as-we-both-battle-cancer

(via)

[bpdbeehive]

Characters that possibly have all 9 of the symptoms of the BPD criteria

Must have 5 or more symptoms:

1. Chronic feelings of emptiness

2. Emotional instability in reaction to day-to-day events (e.g., intense episodic sadness, irritability, or anxiety usually lasting a few hours and only rarely more than a few days)

3. Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment

4. Identity disturbance with markedly or persistently unstable self-image or sense of self

5. Impulsive behavior in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating)

6. Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger (e.g., frequent displays of temper, constant anger, recurrent physical fights)

7. A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by extremes between idealization and devaluation (also known as "splitting")

8. Recurrent suicidal behavior, gestures, threats, or self-harming behavior

9. Transient, stress-related paranoid ideation or severe dissociative symptoms

Ame-chan/kawaiiangel- Needy Streamer Overload

Annie Wilkes- Misery

Ayano- Yandere simulator

Bojack Horseman- Bojack Horseman

Catra- She-ra and the Princesses of Power

Cersei Lannister- Game of Thrones

Dandy Mott- American Horror Story

Dennis Reynolds- It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Harley Quinn- DC

Homura Akemi- Madoka Magica

Jason Dean- Heathers

Jinx- Arcane

John Doe- Telltale Batman

Kanato Sakamaki- Diabolik Lovers

Marla Singer- Fight Club

Misa Amane- Death Note

Mizore Shirayuki- Rosario Vampire

Nagito Komaeda- Danganronpa

Pearl- Pearl

River Song- Doctor Who

Sarah Lynn- Bojack Horseman

Spinel- Steven Universe

The Joker- DC

The Master- Doctor Who

Yuno Gasai- Future Diary

[sixofprose]

Best New Fantasy Series

I read the first book of this series a year ago, then reread it a couple days ago to prepare for the second book, which I read yesterday. Let me tell you, folks, this series is a must read.

You follow Kaelin, a young boy in the Bardic Isles, a fantasy world where music is the magic system, as well as a huge part of the social and political order.

Kaelin is a self-taught flutist with a special gift who is afraid to play in front of anyone because of a tragedy he experienced in the past. But through a series of events, he ends up following one of the Masters of Music, getting the training he so desperately needs.

The first book focuses on their relationship, between mentor and student. In the second book, Kaelin spends time with each of the other Masters of Music, as well as the Bards that serve under them, which provides a much larger ensemble cast.

Now, what makes these books magic are the characters. You will fall in love with Kaelin, sweet, kind, beautiful boy, who also has one of the funniest mouths on him. The HUMOR in this book is so clever. The way he interacts with all the various Bards who visit, as well as the Masters, is delightful.

Additionally, it feels like you go on an emotional, healing, and ethical journey right alongside Kaelin. You can tell the author is a lifelong teacher, because the way lessons are taught to both Kaelin and the adults, are so authentic and impactful. I was moved to tears by the emotional moments constantly, and then a page later I would be laughing out loud.

The world that Himeda created is one I want transport myself to immediately. I'm invested in the plot, but more than anything my heart has been stolen by the world and its characters.

Musicians and non-musicians alike will get their breath taken away by these books. These books are wise, the heavy topics are handled with utmost care, and you can feel the love bled into every page. The author is 72 and has spent her whole life dreaming up this series and it really really shows.

If you take a chance on a book/series this week, please let it be this one!!!

It's on Kindle Unlimited too!

[john-bracket]

[readerviews]

"Master of Music" by Marla Himeda

A Fantasy Wrapped Around Music and Magic #books #bookreview #reading #readerviews

Master of Music: The Bardic Isles Series: Book One Marla HimedaIndependently Published (2023)ISBN: 978-1959900009Reviewed by Kathy Stickles for Reader Views (05/2023) “Master of Music: The Bardic Isles Series: Book One” is the first book in this new series by Marla Himeda and I would recommend it to everyone.  The book is filled with fantasy, music, wonderful characters, and deep emotions. I…

[gl1tchy-4rt]

Building a band!!

Here's the Members of...

"Here in 'Go Make Some Sound' it's all about doing something fun and enjoying ourselves, if we are not enjoying it then we try something else" - Marla the Mushroom

Marla the Mushroom: Bass player of the group.

She is peppy and outgoing, she maybe the only gal in the group but don't let that make ya think she won't defend herself!

Works part-time at "Noisette Cafe" and is good friends with the owner.

"I don't care if our music is silly, or childish or anything, what matters is that me, my pals and the audience we are having fun!" - Stretcher the Cheese

Stretcher the Cheese: Drummer of the group

He may look a bit old but i assure you he is full of life! Always amazed by the life and animals that live in the world.

Works part-time at Virgil's farm.

"All i have to say is that life is pretty amazing and i'm glad to be here" - Tommy the Tomato

Tonny the Tomato: Guitarist of the group

The chillest clown that ever lived, but that doesn't stop him from being a party animal!

Works part-time at a convenience store.

"I...i'm just happy to be alive and well, and especially that my friends are here and okay" - Brad the Butcher

Brad the butcher: Pianist of the group

Don't let his scary appearance fool you, he is pretty nice and pretty much the dad of the group, despite his challenged vision you, he can play music like a freaking master!

Works part-time as an actual butcher.

"Life's about enjoying yourself, so that's what we are doing! enjoying life" - Presley the Pineapple

Presley the Pineapple: Lead vocalist of the group.

A Strong yet melodious voice to set the stage and lead the band to a wonderful performance! And is that voice is no other than Presley! Leader of the group.

Works part-time in a bar.

"We are all here! and that's so cool!and i'm so glad that... we all changed, for the better!" - Peshino the Bot

Peshino the Bot: Accordion player of the group.

Hands that used to make pizza are now used to play wonderful melodies with his new friends! He is never afraid to put a bit of color to life.

Works part-time in a post office.

Last but not least be can't forget about their manager: Snotty and his secretary: Ms. Iceyy! By @fizzysartplace

Sadly we couldn't get an interview with them :(

(archive photography) /jk

So yeah! that's "Go Make Some Sound!!" i really enjoyed drawing them :)

See y'all next time! Buh-bye!!

[dyns33]

Fight Club part 2

Part 2 of my little Tyler Durder x Reader

Because of Project Mayhem, people tend to believe that Tyler Durden likes chaos. That he is the embodiment of chaos.

He likes to see others lost, but he is never lost himself. He is completely in control. He knows what's going to happen, because that's what he decided. An agent of chaos, following a straight line. No one seemed to have understood this.

So I was the only person in the world fully aware that if Tyler Durden was in prison, it was his choice.

It's a mistake to think that cutting off the head of the Mayhem project would stop everything. Even though he is the creator, Tyler did everything to keep his beast running without him. A brainless creature, space monkeys, who know perfectly well what their master wants without him needing to speak.

Plus, Tyler won't have his head cut off. His monkeys are everywhere, in the police, among the juries, behind the walls of his prison. He is surrounded by his followers, who ensure his safety.

If he wants, he can go out. It is obvious that he sometimes goes out, for a few hours, a few days, without the authorities being alarmed.

I know this because I know Tyler very well. Without knowing why or how after all this time, I know him. I hear him in my head sometimes. I feel his breath on the back of my neck, a presence as reassuring as it is frightening.

I know him, so I am always careful even if he is in prison, even if he is far away, even if it has been almost a year.

He haunts my thoughts. My nights. I can still see us on that beach, on the plane, in the house. I miss him, and that's what scares me the most. I have to be wary of everything, and myself first.

Jack is still outside, faithful doggie, psycho boy, who probably gives the orders when the leader sleeps in his cell. I don't think they're looking for me. I am dead and buried. But all it takes is one mistake for everything to change.

That's life. People. I'm not perfect. The mistake came one day. It all started with a heart attack on a bus.

Nothing weird, I wasn't even on the bus. Like every day at the same time, I had my coffee on a terrace, my only little moment of relaxation.

The bus passed the café. I didn't even see it anymore. I didn't see the man fall, nor the people around him become alarmed. It didn't matter to me in the slightest.

That was bad news for a federal agent, because the man who had just died was a well known space monkey. Big Bob. Kind Bob, a bit stupid, who continued to obey by traveling all over the country spreading the word of Tyler Durden.

He had seen me. This came as a shock to him, since he was the one who found my body.

It could have ended there, but one of the feds were obsessed with Tyler. With his organization. He wondered if Bob had been murdered, so he went his way, he took the bus, and he saw me too.

We had never met, but when he approached, I knew immediately why he was there.

“Everyone thinks you’re dead.” he said to me as he sat down. Everyone was Tyler.

“I don’t know what you're talking about.”

He took out a Polaroid photo. Tyler loved Polaroids. He had quite a collection. I know because Marla talked about it sometimes, to annoy Jack. Intimate photos, all the people he had fucked with, in erotic positions, during the act.

We had never fucked. We barely shook hands, and even though I knew what he wanted, there had always been a distance between us. The walls and the ceiling.

I didn't know Tyler took a picture of me while I was sleeping. He had written down my name on it. I wondered if Marla or anyone else had seen it before the police. I wondered how I felt, knowing that he had taken this photo, and the meaning it had.

"He doesn't talk much. He doesn't like me to show him this photo, but he told me it was his heart, and that it was buried under the house. We found a body. You have an explanation ?"

I had tons of explanations, but I didn't want to share them with the agent. Tyler wouldn't have liked it, and I didn't like it either.

“Tell me about him.” he insisted.

"No."

“You know what he’s up to.”

“As much as you.”

“Give me something, or I’ll arrest you for obstruction of justice.”

"I don't know anything. We met on a beach, he put me up for a while, then I left. Don't tell him you saw me. It won't do you any good."

My mistake was not to believe that the agent would be intelligent enough to listen to my request. He listened. He didn't tell Tyler that I was alive.

No, my mistake was harder to see, seeming insignificant for several days, until I woke up in the middle of the night.

Even if he didn't tell him I was alive, the agent would still tell Tyler about me, hoping to get a reaction. He already knew from the picture that I was special, a point that needed to be pressed, and he wasn't going to stop.

So he was going to talk about our meeting. He was going to talk about the beach.

No one knew about the beach, except Tyler and me.

Since Tyler never told anyone, he would know everything without the agent needing to speak.

There was a bit of panic when the newspapers announced the escape of the leader of Project Mayhem. Speculation regarding his intentions was endless, ranging from bateriological terrorism, to bombing buildings, to assassinating the president.

Only I really knew why he was out there after all this time.

Contrary to what others think, he never wanted to take control or destroy the world. That wasn't the goal of Project Mayhem. Tyler had a vision on a human scale. He only likes to play, among other things.

If I dreamed of him, he dreamed of me. The difference was that while I was running as far away from his cell as possible, he had no reason to leave since he thought he knew where to find me. He still had his picture, and his memories.

Bob really had a talent for breaking things.

I could have continued to flee. It would have been less easy now that the agents of Chaos knew I was alive, but I could have tried. Like a new game. But I didn't like Tyler's games.

I decided to wait for him in my apartment. It was his move. It was always his move.

When he knocked on my door, he thought about bringing beers and pizza. He did this with Jack at home sometimes, at first. When there was still just the club.

He didn't say anything when he saw me, as if he always knew he would see me again one day. Maybe he knew.

Dinner passed in silence, facing each other, waiting. It was his move. I won't start. He seemed to understand it. He decided to make an effort.

“You remember the beach.” It was not a question.

“A guy building a giant hand, you don’t see that every day.”

"I guess not. You broke my heart. But I forgive you. I didn't think you remembered."

“We wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t remembered that.”

"Maybe not."

“I’ve always wanted to ask you, why this hand ?”

"I wanted to talk to God. Since he didn't answer, I decided to steal his hand. When I was finished, I looked at what it was pointing at and I saw you, looking back at me. Then I knew it was you."

"What me ?"

"It was you." he only repeated, as if I should understand what he meant, and the worst thing was that I understood perfectly what he meant.

Silence returned, as I finished my beer. All this was far too intimate, more intimate than his photos. More domestic. Something was seriously wrong with Tyler Durden.

I didn't know if I should talk about all the other things I knew. That would have made the situation even worse.

“I don’t like chaos.” was the only thing I could say.

"No one likes that, you'd have to be a moron. You never like what's necessary."

“Nothing is necessary.”

"I love you."

I vividly remembered Jack and Marla, two idiots who danced and screamed, unable to clearly admit how they felt and preferring to trample romance with cigarettes and condoms.

I had often judged Jack because of this. Not anymore. I wanted to slap my face with my hands and disappear, as Tyler started to smile.

Since I didn't need to say what I already knew, he didn't need to say what I already knew. I knew it from the plane. Since his invitation. From his bed above mine. Ever since he took a picture of me sleeping.

He didn't need to say it. We weren't talking about that. It was a new rule. Unfair.

“This can’t end well.”

"As always. Like everything. Endings are never good, that's the tragic thing. And yet, life goes on."

"I wanted to talk to you on this beach. It would have been different if I had."

"We would have fucked like dogs in your hotel room, I would have beaten up your asshole boss sooner, and the world would have burned down on its own. I'm glad you didn't talk to me."

I had sometimes dreamed of another path. I was stupid enough to have hope. Tyler was destroying hope, that was his reason for being, providing total freedom.

I wasn't sure what I was. I still am not today. His heart, maybe. His poor heart.

[fnafsilvereyes]

Marla: I’m surrounded by simps.

Points at Carlton: You simp for a fake Charlie

Carlton: In my defence she was hot

Points at Jessica: You simp for Charlie and her brother

Jessica: Is that really a crime? Those twins are very attractive

Points at John: And you must be the biggest simp for Charlie I’ve ever seen.

John: I don’t mean to come across that way

Points at Charlie: And you… I don’t actually know if you simp for anyone

Charlie: That’s because I’m a master at hiding my emotions

[mudassirmyo]

dha lahore

A Comprehensive Guide to DHA Lahore

Lahore, the heart of Punjab, is known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and modern real estate developments. Among the most prestigious areas in the city is the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) Lahore, which stands out as a symbol of luxury, security, and investment potential. Whether you're a local resident, a new homebuyer, or an investor, DHA Lahore offers opportunities that cater to all. Let’s dive into what makes DHA Lahore so special.

History of DHA Lahore

The inception of DHA Lahore dates back to the 1970s when it was initially conceived as a residential community primarily for retired military personnel. Over time, it evolved into one of the most sought-after residential and commercial areas for civilians and professionals alike. The involvement of the Pakistan Army in its development ensured that the housing authority upheld the highest standards of urban planning, infrastructure, and security.

Location and Accessibility

DHA Lahore is strategically located in the southern part of the city. Its proximity to Allama Iqbal International Airport, Ring Road, and major commercial hubs makes it an ideal place for those who desire both accessibility and exclusivity. Residents benefit from quick connections to Gulberg, Model Town, and downtown Lahore, allowing for seamless travel whether for work, shopping, or leisure.

Phases of DHA Lahore

DHA Lahore is divided into several phases, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Phase 1: The foundation of DHA, Phase 1, is one of the earliest and most well-established phases. It consists mainly of large residential plots and is characterized by mature infrastructure and green spaces.

Phase 2: With modern facilities and excellent urban planning, Phase 2 is known for its high-end properties and well-maintained public spaces.

Phase 3-7: These phases represent the gradual expansion of DHA and offer a mix of residential and commercial opportunities. Many areas in these phases are fully developed and have become desirable locations for new residents.

Phase 8-9: Considered the "new DHA," these phases offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, contemporary designs, and cutting-edge facilities. As development continues, these phases are fast becoming hotspots for new investments.

Master Planning and Infrastructure

DHA Lahore’s meticulous master planning ensures that all phases benefit from wide roads, extensive green belts, and underground utilities. The housing society takes pride in maintaining parks, recreational areas, and strict zoning laws to prevent overcrowding and maintain a serene environment.

Real Estate Market in DHA Lahore

When it comes to real estate, DHA Lahore is a goldmine for buyers and investors. Whether you are interested in residential properties such as villas, apartments, or plots, DHA offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. The plot sizes typically range from 5 Marla to 2 Kanal, allowing buyers to choose according to their needs. Prices vary significantly depending on the phase and property size.

For those looking at commercial properties, DHA has ample opportunities for businesses with its well-planned commercial areas, ensuring a steady flow of customers and high returns on investment.

Lifestyle and Community Living

Living in DHA Lahore means more than just owning property. It’s about being part of a community that values quality of life. Residents enjoy well-maintained parks, community clubs, and sports facilities, such as DHA Sports Complexes, offering everything from tennis courts to swimming pools.

Educational Institutions in DHA Lahore

DHA is home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in Lahore. Renowned schools like Lahore Grammar School and Beaconhouse School System have campuses spread across various phases, ensuring that children receive top-notch education within a short commute.

Healthcare Facilities in DHA Lahore

Access to medical services is another major perk for DHA residents. From general hospitals to specialized clinics, such as National Hospital, residents have access to excellent healthcare facilities that ensure their well-being.

Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

When it comes to leisure and shopping, DHA Lahore doesn’t disappoint. Popular shopping destinations like Y Block Commercial Area and Packages Mall offer everything from high-end fashion to daily essentials. Dining options are abundant, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and fast food outlets catering to different tastes.

Security and Safety

One of the biggest draws of DHA Lahore is its unmatched security. The entire area is gated, with 24/7 surveillance and patrols. DHA security works in tandem with local police to ensure a safe living environment, making it an ideal choice for families.

Environmental Initiatives

DHA Lahore is known for its commitment to sustainability. The community engages in several green initiatives, such as tree plantation campaigns and the development of green belts, ensuring that it remains a healthy and eco-friendly place to live.

Investment Opportunities in DHA Lahore

Investors have long been drawn to DHA Lahore because of its reputation for offering solid returns. As property values continue to rise, investing in DHA remains a smart choice for those looking to grow their wealth. From renting out properties to long-term sales, DHA offers plenty of opportunities for both small and large investors.

Challenges Faced by DHA Lahore

Like any rapidly growing area, DHA Lahore does face some challenges, such as traffic congestion in certain phases due to the growing population. However, the development of new roads and connections to the Lahore Ring Road is helping to alleviate these issues.

Future of DHA Lahore

Looking ahead, DHA Lahore has ambitious expansion plans. New phases are in the pipeline, and there is a strong focus on introducing more advanced infrastructure and green initiatives. The future of DHA Lahore looks promising, with ongoing projects ensuring it remains a top-tier housing society for years to come.

Conclusion

DHA Lahore has established itself as a premium residential and commercial area that combines luxury, security, and modern living. Its prime location, coupled with world-class infrastructure and a vibrant community, makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to invest or settle in Lahore. As it continues to expand and evolve, DHA Lahore will remain a benchmark for urban living in Pakistan.

FAQs

What is the starting price of a house in DHA Lahore?

Prices for a house in DHA Lahore can start from PKR 2-3 crore for smaller properties and go up depending on the size and location.

How secure is DHA Lahore for families?

DHA Lahore is known for its top-notch security, with 24/7 surveillance, gated communities, and dedicated security teams ensuring a safe environment for families.

What is the difference between various phases of DHA Lahore?

Each phase in DHA varies in terms of development, pricing, and infrastructure, with newer phases offering more modern amenities while older phases provide a more established community.

[lunarsilkscreen]

Fight Club and Imposter Syndrome

Chewing the Fat; To chat in a leisurely and prolonged way.

"we were chewing the fat, telling stories about the old days"

"We were selling their own fat asses back them" -- Jack talking about his side hustle of making Soap from infectious human waste. (From a lipo suction clinic.)

[Paper Street Soap Company] A paper street is a road, or street that is included on a map, but was never built; or never intended to be built. Or; a fabricated address entirely.

This is where I'm going to take a logical leap, and apply some assumptions;

A Paper Street, in a fictional context is every street. Any street that exists in a book is therefore a "paper street". The soap they make from "fat" is the stories people tell about themselves; fact or fiction.

And the lady at the counter "This is the best soap I've ever seen." She was obviously a fan; but I've heard the phrase before... I may have even said something similar.

Durden: "Of course it is; because it's your fat ass lady."

Palahniuk/Fincher: "Of course it is; because it's your story."

This part is an ode to the story writing process. You collect stories; from newspapers, from people, from "chewing the Fat".

You then take that information; add a little *lie* to obfuscate certain details, you boil it out, and render the fat. Skim the tallow, mix a dash of sawdust (filler) with the glycerine in the right parts of the story and you have Nitroglycerin; the climax of the story.

"Anybody could do this job; we're just selling their own story back to them." - The duality of being a writer. Even a master writer (a master baiter) must feel this. Of course; they've done the work they transformed the source material, wherever they derive their inspiration from into something unrecognizable from the source.

But they still remember the very beginning;

"Yes. I'm selling some clothes." - Marla after stealing some clothes from a laundry mat to a pawn shop across the street.

Depicting the feeling of taking somebody else's image, and selling it for a profit; for other people to wear like used clothes bought from a consignment shop.

"This is a bridesmaid's dress, somebody loved this intensely for one day; then poof... I got it for a dollar." - That same Marla trying out other people's stories for herself; completely forgetting exactly how those clothes must've ended up in consignment...

The Good; Soap makes things clean.

The Bad; God Complex, Stealing

The Ugly; It's all lye.

Geddit? Because the first line in any writing is called "The Hook" so they're "Master Baiters"?

[raybizzle]

"Foolish" (1999) is a comedy film produced by Master P under his label, No Limit Films. Master P also wrote the film with Eddie Griffin, Anthony D, and Tony Wilson. The movie features a large cast, including Master P, Eddie Griffin, Amie Petersen, Andrew Dice Clay, Jonathan Banks, and Bill Nunn. The soundtrack is a mixture of soul, funk, and hip-hop, with several tracks performed by No Limit members. It peaked at #32 on the Billboard 200 and #10 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.

Overall, this movie is a decent independent comedy with Master P helping advance hip-hop artists' presence in the film industry. Eddie Griffin was an all-star comedian at the time, and he was in the middle of starring in the T.V. show "Malcolm and Eddie" with Malcolm-Jamal Warner. The movie cuts to several standup routines with Griffin and other comedians, which adds some context to the film.

Director: Dave Meyers Writers: Master P, Eddie Griffin, Anthony D, Tony Wilson

Starring Eddie Griffin, Master P, Amie Petersen, Frank Sivero, Daphne Duplaix, Jonathan Banks, Andrew Dice Clay, Sven-Ole Thorsen, Marla Gibbs, Traci Bingham, Bill Nunn, John Marlo, Clifton Powell, Anthony Johnson, Anthony Boswell, Marqel Lee, Honest John, Bill Duke, Nick Meaney

Storyline Miles "Foolish" Waise (Eddie Griffin) is a fast-rising phenomenon on the local comedy nightclub scene. While his manager wants him to sell out and make the big bucks, Foolish wants to chill out and make his audience happy. He's also got to put up with the half-baked schemes of his always scammin' brother Quentin "Fifty Dollah" Waise (Master P) - a small-time hoodlum whose secret dream is to start a comedy club with Foolish. But when the two brothers get caught up in a gun-toting prank that goes bad, Quentin finds himself on the wrong side of the hood's most ruthless drug lord, the infamous El Dorado Ron (Andrew Dice Clay).

Available on DVD and streaming services

[roadtogracelandx45]

Courage Under Fire |Pre War 3| Band of Brothers

some how I missed posting this. opps.

master list

part 2

ao3

wattpad

@marycorleone

Pre War Three 

Dec. 1941

Bill looked up when he heard the slamming of the front door that led to the Stewart house, Olivia had just stormed out of the house and was going down the short flight of steps. 

"Hey Doll, what's wrong?" he asked, pulling himself away from the small group of friends that he was with playing dice. 

"My fucking mother is what happened." She cursed, patting the pockets of her skirt for her pack of smokes, cursing again when she didn't find them. 

Amused about how flustered she was, Bill pulled his own pack out and held it out to her.

"Thanks." She muttered as she took it from him. 'She comes in and is acting like she runs the whole goddamn place. Overrides Andie."

Katherine McHale was James Stewart's ex-wife and the mother of the twins, Marla and their 5 older brothers and a woman who hated that she birthed two girls and took her anger out on Olivia who was the favorite from the time she was born.

"What is she even doing here?" He asked shrugging off his coat to put it over her shoulders, if there was one thing about Olivia that he would always remember was that she always hated the cold weather. And Philly got to be freezing compared to Charleston. 

"Mine and Bobby's 18th birthday, she thinks that because 18 years ago she had to get cut open to have us, she deserves a party too."

Bill was all too familiar with Katherine McHale, she came once or twice a year to see the kids with whatever man she was with at the time. And she always raised a fuss wherever she went. Olivia's hair wasn't done in the right style, the clothes she was wearing were too raggedy. She was too much like a tomboy, she shouldn't be chasing after her brothers or Bill and his brothers. She wasn't the perfect version of the southern belle that Katherine had envisioned.

And Katherine hated it.

"She is sleeping with Marla and me too. We have to say the rosary every night and in the morning." 

Bill couldn't help himself. He started laughing, she sounded so defeated and angry that it was almost funny.

"It's not funny Bill! She is sleeping in my bed with me! Do you know how uncomfortable that is?" She questioned as she finally lit the smoke she had in her hand, "She read my diary! While we were at school. She knows everything."  

"Everything?" Bill paused in lighting his own smoke surprised, he knew that both Stewart girls and James kept journals and recorded everything in them.

"Mhmm," She hummed through an exhale of smoke, "She threatened to send me to the convent that Aunt Cissy is thinking about joining because I lost my virginity." 

 "You what?" He was surprised and hurt that she actually did that, especially after it being such a hot-button topic for them and the whole reason why he ended up cheating on her with Evie.

"Yeah, after the deb ball." She answered, her eyes focused down the street to the mail truck that was slowly making its way down the street. From what he had been told about the party from not only Olivia but Robert who went as one of the other girls' escorts there had been a lot of drinking before, during, and after the party, and well into the morning hours. 

"Don't look at me like that Billy, it just happened." She didn't feel like she had to explain herself to him, sure, they had done everything but the deed when they were together. And she felt guilty about it but she couldn't bring herself to do it. They had tried, twice, but nothing ever came of it but frustration on Bill's part. 

"You can't really be mad about it. You slept with Evie numerous times. You made your choice and I made my own. We are both our own people." 

"I know," he admitted as she slid closer to his body for his heat, he knew there was time she wanted to forgive him and take him back then he would make the same mistake with Evie and set them back to square one. 

A place that Olivia and Evie could never get past.

Mostly out of hurt on the former's part. 

It was a vicious merry-go-round that never stopped. 

They fell into a comfortable silence, listening to the shouts of laughter and curses from the boy down the street playing dice and the quieter laughter and conversations from the older men including their fathers.  Bill almost felt at peace with her leaning against his side, humming softly. It almost felt right for them to be like this. 

"Olivia Franklin!" Katherine exclaimed coming out of the house startling them out of their peaceful moment and for those playing the dice game down the street to stop and look. 

"What are you doing?"

"What does it look like Katherine?" She sassed in return, "I am smoking. I am not fucking."

 Bill turned his head so it was buried in her hair to cover up his laughter. Sometimes she was so serious that everyone forgot that she was just a girl. 

"Olivia, who taught you how to talk like that?" Katherine put her hand on her heart trying to settle her rapidly beating heart. She held her free hand out to tick off names, "Uncle Finn, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Great Great Grandpa, Great Grandma. My brothers."

  "Me." Bill laughed, "Henry."

"Papa G." She added with her own laugh, but with Bill's dad, it was Italian curse words, words that Bill never really picked up. 

 "Basically anyone really," Bobby added, he had come down the street with a stack of mail. He held out a smaller stack that included a small box to his twin who grinned. "You definitely made an admirer out of Nix. And his family. I am sure if he wasn't getting married on the 18th, there would be a formal engagement proposal in that stack of letters."

 His eyes went to Bill who was glowering with anger and jealousy. There had been several times in the past few months when Olivia went out with one of the other boys in their class where he had reacted the same way. Bill was very set in the mindset that Olivia was his and his alone. And her dating was messing stuff up for him. 

"I am going to go inside and read these." She said before handing the unfinished smoke to Bobby and going back into the house. 

"Nix as in Lewis Nixon? Helen's cousin?" Katherine asked, blocking her path back into the house.

"Yes. Lewis Nixon. Who is getting married in a few weeks. That I will never marry." Olivia was firm on that, she cared for Lewis and he cared for and loved spoiling her but they were both holding out for that great love.

And they knew they weren't it for each other.

 "Great guy, though, great in bed." She smirked before pushing past her mother and into the house. Her twin's laughter followed her as she shut the door and went up the stairs.

 "Katherine, just let her go." James Sr, the twins' father said having come down the street, worried that his ex-wife was going to slap his daughter again. 

"Did you hear what she said to me?" 

"I did but as of Sunday she is an adult and she can say and do what she wants."

James had always raised his daughters to be equal to his sons and she would have the same chances at least within their family if not the real world. He knew that she had dreamed of going to get her nursing degree but they couldn't afford it so she was going to settle for volunteering at the VA hospital in hopes they would hire her into their program. 

They were all too proud to take the money from Fredrick, who had been extremely adamant that a chunk of money be left to Olivia, Robert, and Marla. And that money can be used for school or weddings. 

"Do you know," Katherine spat, "that she is having premarital sex?"

James had put two and two together after the deb that he went down for, and honestly, he couldn't get mad at her for doing the same thing that her brothers had done.

"Yes, as long as she doesn't end up pregnant before she is married, it's fine." 

"I knew I should’ve raised them. She wouldn't be doing this."

"No, she would just be dead and buried in the Stewart family cemetery." Robert spat as Bill slipped past them into the house to go check on her. 

Thankfully Marla took the younger kids to the park and weren't home yet and were out of the line of fire for Katherine. 

"You don't know that Robert."

"Yes! I do! If it wouldn't have been for Lewis stepping in, you would have killed her last summer."

"That isn't true!" 

**

Bill knocked on Olivia's bedroom door once and slipped into the room just in time to see the window close. 

"You good?"

 "Fine." She returned, shrugging off his coat and holding it out to him. 

He took steps to take it back from her but instead pulled her to him, dropping the coat to the ground. 

"Bill? What're you doing?" He shook his head and pressed his lips against hers.

Finally, he kissed her like he had wanted to since she came back from Charleston.

  "We can't do this." She muttered putting her hands on his chest to push away from him.

 "Who is going to stop us babe?" She chewed on her bottom lip in thought before raising herself up on her toes and kissing him again letting him pull her in closer to him. 

Maybe she needed to stop being so straight-laced and doing things for herself. 

She had always followed the rules and was a good daughter, sister, and friend, and looked at where that got her. 

A whole lot of nowhere and hurt. 

And it was time to not be like that anymore.

***

December  7th, 1941 

South Philly 

"You are so going to hell." Marla teased her sister who came out of the confessional booth, her cheeks flushed, a smirk playing on the corner of her mouth. 

"So? Adam and Eve did the same thing. If God didn't want us to do stuff like this then he wouldn't have created man and woman or given us temptation."

The younger Stewart sister laughed and looped their elbows together, ever since this thing with Bill started, her sister became a new Olivia, one that she enjoyed. 

It was a mix of the old Olivia and the one from Charleston, so they were getting the best of both worlds.

"Did Bill say anything about what he wanted to do tonight with you and Bobby?" She asked, they were the last two to leave the church. 

Bobby had fled the first chance he got, followed quickly by their brother Lee and his pregnant wife.

 Their father had stayed home with the other grandkids who were too young to attend a full two-hour-long mass and he was using the twins' birthday party that night as another excuse to not attend church. 

Their stepmother Andie was teaching a Sunday school class so it would just be them. 

"No, he had to go right to the factory for work." She said, "He was going to try and get Bobby on too." 

"Daddy won't like that." the younger girl mused as they started down the street towards the house, "he doesn't even like you going down to the VA hospital." 

"I know he doesn't but that's the only way I can get into the nursing program. If I get picked.”

'You could just join the Red Cross."

"Shut your mouth Marla Elizabeth. You know what Great-Great Pawpaw would do if he knew his precious "Liddy" was in the Red Cross." Olivia personally thought there was nothing wrong with the Red Cross but her great-great-grandfather and in turn great grandfather had issues with it.  

"Just a suggestion." The younger girl shrugged before pausing by the corner store that had the news playing, "The Japanese have bombed Pearl Harbor." 

 "What did they just say?" One of the other girls that was passing asked stopping dead in her tracks like most of the other people on the street.

"Shh." Olivia hushed as she gripped her sister's hand desperately.  

"Liv, aren't Nicholas and James there?" Marla asked, squeezing her cold fingers.

 "Nicky is. So is Uncle Tommy." She answered, "Jimmy is on the Enterprise I think." Her heart was jumping from her throat to her stomach like it was its business. 

"We need to get home now," Marla commented she knew that her father or older brothers who were still home preparing for the twins' birthday party weren't going to leave to hunt them down like they would have if they hadn't just got this news. 

 "Liv!' she demanded, pulling her hand again. The older sister nodded her head numbly and let her pull her to the house.

**

To both Olivia and Marla's surprise, Bill was sitting on the couch next to Bobby who stood up once his sisters came into the living room, he crossed the room quickly and pulled them both into hugs. 

"Everything is going to be okay." He assured them, he had been repeating that since he had turned on the radio when he got home. "I am sure they are safe." Bill held his hand out to Olivia who pulled herself away from her brother and took it. He tugged her until she was sitting on his lap.

 She curled into him almost instinctively, her fingers catching the ones that were resting on her hip. 

That's where Evie found them almost an hour later, cuddled up on the couch, lips moving in silent prayer, they had all known even without the president announcing it that they were going to war and the boys. Almost all the boys in the neighborhood could be drafted and the ones who couldn't be drafted would try and join up. They both knew Bill well enough to know that he would do this. Same with Robert. 

Evie was sure the first thing tomorrow morning Bobby would go down to the recruiter's office and join up. 

And Evie worried for Liv, the twins had never been separated by far distances. They had thought it would be good to try and separate them when she was going to Charleston but there was a fit thrown, and it was agreed that he would go with Olivia and Marla. 

Honestly, Evie couldn't see the twins not being with each other, their dad tried to separate them when Liv was going to Charleston but Bobby rarely pitched a fit for himself. Pitched one. He refused to be away from his sisters and he would have run away to be there.

It was that freaky twin thing. 

"Evie." Olivia's voice shook her out of their thoughts and she turned to look at the girl, she was surprised to see her holding her hand out to her.   The girl took it and sat down on the couch next to the couple, as messed up as it was, maybe this was something that they needed to get their friendship back on track. 

[queermtl]

Queer MTL : quoi faire en janvier 2024 / Queer MTL things to do: January 2024

La nouvelle année commence, et avec elle, une toute nouvelle saison de plaisir queer! Ce mois-ci, Montréal propose une foule d’événements, de soirées et d’expériences uniques qui font briller toutes les nuances de l’arc-en-ciel LGBTQ+. Entre prestations drag et activités communautaires, festivals bien en vue et événements underground, voici notre sélection des choses les plus gaies à faire dans la ville. Pour rester à l’affût de tout ajout, suivez Queer MTL sur Instagram, Twitter, Facebook et Tumblr! Vous présentez un événement? Écrivez-nous!

It’s time for a new year to begin, and with it comes a whole new season of queer fun! This month, Montréal is stuffed to the brim with events, parties and unique experiences painted in all the colours of the LGBTQ+ rainbow. From drag to community, circuit to underground, here’s some of our picks for the best LGBTQ+ things to do in the city. For further announcements, including those not announced at time of publication, follow Queer MTL on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr! Got an event coming up? DM it our way!

LEGEND

🎥 Cinema 👑 Drag 🥳 Parties 🎶 Concert ✊ Activism 🏳️‍⚧️ Trans 🏳️‍🌈 Community 😆 Comedy 🎭 Performance 💪 Sports and Dance 👯‍♀️ Dance 🎤 Karaoke 🎨 Arts 📚 Literary / Educational 👠 Ballroom / Vogue

Mercredi 3 janvier / Wednesday, January 3 👑 Full Gisèle : Après-Noël avec Gisèle Lullaby, Marla Deer, Bobépine, Velma Jones et Kelly Torrieli, Cabaret Mado

🎨 Drink & Draw par @Hommehomo, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives gaies du Québec, en commémoration des 40 ans des Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 4 janvier / Thursday, January 4 👑 Soirée King with George Édouard Baron des bois du matin and Cismon Genderfuck, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Girls’ Night Out : Dancing Queen with Krystella Fame, Kiara, Démone Lastrange and Misty Waterfalls, Cabaret Mado

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🎨 Art Battle Montréal, Bar La Shop

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 5 janvier / Friday, January 5 👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Jimmy Moore, Celes, Démone Lastrange and Victoria de Rockwell, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 6 janvier / Saturday, January 6 👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Jimmy Moore, Celes, Démone Lastrange and Victoria de Rockwell, Cabaret Mado

😂 The 2nd Annual Quiz Master Brian Montréal Trivia Championships with Quiz Master Brian, Burgundy Lion

🎤 Bareoke: Strip Karaoke, Café Cléopatra

🥳 Queen & Queer’s call for beginner and emerging DJs to spin at their upcoming club nights closes today. See here for details. 

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 7 janvier / Sunday, January 7 👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Marla Deer, Niko Lubie, Ruby Doll and Bobépine, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 8 janvier / Monday, January 8 👑 Ego Trip : Bonne Féte Walter with Walter Ego, Pétula Claque, Jay Show, Ruby Doll, RV Métal, Rock Bière and Fay Miss, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 9 janvier / Tuesday, January 9 👑 Full Gisèle : Star Académie with Gisèle Lullaby, Pétula Claque, Serge La Drag, Crystal Starz, Misty Waterfalls and Eden Ashes, Cabaret Mado

🎶 Plaid with Automatisme, Théâtre Fairmount

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 10 janvier / Wednesday, January 10 👑 4 Queens Pour Nous with Venus, Denim, Aurora Matrix and Kiara, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 11 janvier / Thursday, January 11 🎭 Cabaret Queer with Tracy Trash, Justin Jackson, Tina Leon, Crystal Starz, Eva Lou Rhinelander & Ilse Baryshnikov, Fabien L’Amour and Sasha Baga, Cabaret Mado

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 12 janvier / Friday, January 12 🥳 Cerise Noire goth night with Shillelagh Jones and Elizabeth Leslie, Bar NDQ

👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Kiara, Lana Dalida and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Spring Into Action 2024: Outrage, call for submissions closes today, QPIRG | GRIP McGill

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 13 janvier / Saturday, January 13 📚 The Violet Hour Book Club reads Leila Marshy’s The Philistine, Archives gaies du Québec

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Nana, Kiara, Lana Dalida and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Montréal Women’s Club: Intro to Dating + Brunch, Montréal Women’s Club

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 14 janvier / Sunday, January 14 👑 Bonne fête Chouchoune with Michel Dorion and Crystal Starz, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Pétula Claque, Sasha Baga, Lulu Shade and Robin Brutal, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 15 janvier / Monday, January 15 👑 Bière et Métal with Foxy Lexxi Brown and Fabien L’Amour, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 16 janvier / Tuesday, January 16 💪 PWHL Montreal—Season 2023-2024, Place Bell

👑 Full Gisèle : Mean Girls with Gisèle Lullaby, Pétula Claque, Sasha Baga, Lulu Shade, Lady Guidoune and Démone LaStrange, Cabaret Mado

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 17 janvier / Wednesday, January 17 👑 La fabuleuse guerre des pouces! with Jessie Précieuse, Victoire de Rockwell, Kelly Torrieli and Kitana, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 18 janvier / Thursday, January 18 🎶 Madonna: The Celebration Tour with Bob the Drag Queen, Centre Bell

👑 Sashalicious : F*ck les Résolutions with Sasha Baga, Kelly Torrieli, Kitana and Miss Daniels Vyxen, Cabaret Mado 

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

😆 Music Trivia with Quiz Master Brian, MainLine Theatre

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 19 janvier / Friday, January 19 😆 Nataly Aukar: My Turn to Talk, Le Studio TD

👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 20 janvier / Saturday, January 20 🎶 Madonna: The Celebration Tour with Bob the Drag Queen, Centre Bell

🥳 MPU: Truth or Dare | Édition Spéciale Madonna with Jimmy Moore, Casquivano, Aizysse Baga, DJ Jeffany and Frantastik, Le Belmont

🎶 Fleece with Sorry Girls, La Sala Rossa

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

🎤 Bareoke: Strip Karaoke, Café Cléopatra

👑 Jimmy Moore personnifie Madonna: The Blond Ambition Tour, Cabaret Mado

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 21 janvier / Sunday, January 21 👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Lady Boom Boom, Marla Deer, Peggy Sue, Derek Wood and Kiara, Cabaret Mado

Lundi 22 janvier / Monday, January 22 👑 Shade Like Winters with Lulu Shade, Sarah Winters, Ad’Horrible, Démone LaStrange and Amy Thyst, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 23 janvier / Tuesday, January 23 👑 Full Gisèle : Madonna with Gisèle Lullaby, Lady Boom Boom, Tracy Trash, Marla Deer and Ruby Doll, Cabaret Mado

🎶 L’Rain with Yves Jarvis, Bar Le Ritz PDB

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 24 janvier / Wednesday, January 24 👑 Sitcom Bonanza featuring The Nanny, Friends, Will & Grace and others starring the artists of Cabaret Mado, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Jeudi 25 janvier / Thursday, January 25 👑 Trashilaz : Next Generation with Aizysse Baga and judges Lady Boom Boom and Gina Gates, Cabaret Mado

🎶 Alicia Moffet with Pelch, Théâtre Desjardins

👑  Canada’s Drag Race Season 4 Viewing Party with Uma Gahd, Bar Le Cocktail

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Vendredi 26 janvier / Friday, January 26 👑 Vendredi Fou with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

🤠 Club Bolo—Danse Country Montréal meet on Fridays at the Association sportive et communautaire du Centre-Sud

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Samedi 27 janvier / Saturday, January 27 💪 PWHL Montreal—Season 2023-2024, Place Bell

🥳 ZMAGRYA with Manalou, Zina and Mokro, Ctrllab

🥳 NPC Rave with D. Blavatsky, MonsieurMadam, Casa Kobrae, Palladium, Technique Nado and more, 257 rue St-Ferdinand

👑 Drôles de Drags with Miss Butterfly, Ciathanight, Crystal Starz or Emma Déjàvu in rotation, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Mado Reçoit with Mado Lamotte, Cabaret Mado

👑 Jimmy Moore personnifie Taylor Swift, Cabaret Mado

🏳️‍🌈 Atelier : Devenir parent (personnes trans ou non-binaires), Coalition des familles LGBT+ (CFLGBT+)

👯 Tango/Salsa Queer holds lessons every Saturday, visit queertangomtl.com for information or contact tango.queer@hotmail.com or call +1 (514) 709-4678 for prices and signup information, Espaces des Arts

🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

Dimanche 28 janvier / Sunday, January 28 😆 A Very Pretentious Comedy Show #13—he/him edition with Ash Davis, Serag Meletian, Walter Lyng, Matt Shury, Tony McIntyre, Tash Naved, Andrew Khoury, Joe Comedian and music from Ronnie Piano, Café La Lingo Verte

👑 Dimanche Show with Michel Dorion, Bar Le Cocktail

👑 Le Tracy Show with Tracy Trash, Pétula Claque, Lana Dalida, Krystella Fame and Misty Waterfalls, Cabaret Mado

Mardi 30 janvier / Tuesday, January 30 👑 Full Gisèle : Bond Drag 007 with Gisèle Lullaby, Prudence, Victoire de Rockwell, Kiara and Celes, Cabaret Mado

😆 Stand Up St. Henri Open Mic focusing on women, non-binary, queer and allied comedians, Impro Montréal

Mercredi 31 janvier / Wednesday, January 31 🏳️‍🌈 FAG QC* : 40 ans, 40 invité.es, 40 propositions tirées des Fonds des Archives Gaies du Québec, commemorating 40 years of the AGQ, Archives gaies du Québec

OTHERS / AUTRES

🏐 Les Ratons-Chasseurs (Montréal’s LGBTA dodgeball group) holds regular events. Keep an eye on their Facebook for upcoming opportunities to join in and play. 

🕹Montréal Gaymers hosts regular gatherings including board game nights and gaming gatherings. Check their Facebook for what’s next!

🏃🏾Join the Out-Run run and workout club for people relating to the queer / sapphic experience. Details on their Instagram!

🐦 Bird lovers should keep their eye on Queer Birders' regularly scheduled birdwatching events and excursions. Join the Facebook group and get those binoculars at the ready.

👠 Twice a month on every second Tuesday, Bring It! hosts an OTA night of ballroom and vogue with commentator and DJ. Follow their Instagram for dates and details.

[oldestenemy]

every me, every you, every moment passing through (pt. 1)

Baldur sails them to Northguard without needing a reason.

The wizard holes up in the cargo hold and tries to stop the shaking and the sobbing to no avail.

Should they have told the death students? Malorn and Duncan at least? Penny had never met Malistaire, and Marla had never expressed the same disappointment or mourning for the loss of her professor like the other two had. They told Cyrus at the time, he hadn’t pushed for more information, the wizard hadn’t wanted to see the look on his face when he made the connection, when he understood what it meant. They hadn’t wanted to see it when he realized he was looking at his brother’s murderer again.

It had been bad enough the first time.

“We have docked. I have business here, so if you wish to stay—”

“—I’ll be out soon.” They reply, voice muffled by the fact that they are still resting their head against knees. “Thank you, Baldur.”

“Of course. You always have a friend here, as you know.”

They sit in the dark among crates of trade goods from Wizard City for a few more minutes. Waiting for their eyes to stop burning, for their nose to clear well enough to breathe.

Grizzleheim is always an escape.

Which, the more the wizard thinks about it, feels ridiculous given the proximity to the force ostensibly driving every single decision they make. But they aren’t here for Raven, she can sit alone atop her tree and watch their breakdown if she wants, they’re not in any headspace to care.

They make their way down the little path below the frontmost edge of the land, running their fingers through the waterfall as it tumbles off into nothing. The halls of Nidavellir are colder than the air outside, but they don’t mind. Looping around to one of the lower levels, doors that go… nowhere as far as the wizard is aware.

Except…

No.

There is a circle here, a dungeon sigil before the lower moon door.

Had they missed something?

Unlike most of the worlds they’ve visited, they were sure they had done everything anyone in Grizzleheim had ever asked. Any excuse to spend time here had been taken. They’ve never seen this sigil, both the lower doors of Nidavellir had always been shuttered.

They press one hand to the door, feeling the magic lock that holds it shut thrumming under their fingers.

Something waits behind this door, something for you alone.

Raven’s voice is stronger here since her release in Hrundle Fjord.

“What is it?” Their voice echoes through the emptiness, into the cavernous drop below the hall. “Tell me. Tell me!” Frustrated, they slam a fist against the door, the impact following the echo of their voice. Is it a distraction? A waste? A secret? Another horror waiting to be unleashed? Another trapped soul they’ve forgotten to save?

Raven doesn’t answer.

Something for the wizard alone.

As if that were much different from anything else.

Fine. It gives them something to do that isn’t wallow in their own mistakes. The wizard steps into the dungeon sigil, feels it drag their feet into proper placement, lets the timer tick out.

Darkness.

Silence.

"You truly think to face me, Wizard?” The low rasping voice of their very first final battle. The wizard’s vision clears to Stormdrain Tower, and the sight of Lord Nightshade. “Do you have any concept of what I am? No mere ghost lost in the ether, I am Darkness. King of the Dead, Lord of the Nightshade, Master of the things in the dark which float and scream. And now you have the honor of becoming one of my subjects."

Ha.

The wizard smiles a little, head tilting to one side as they step forward. They could vanquish Nightshade with barely a flick of their wand nowadays—

—wait.

The wizard is jolted backwards, hitting the ground by the tower door.

Looking at the back of their younger self.

They reach out a hand just for it, and the tower, to dissolve around them. Voices swirl in a cacophonous wave, nothing standing out amongst them, driving into their skull like a sledgehammer.

Heat.

Breath draws ash and sulfer. They know where they are before the illusion fades in, colors swimming into focus to reveal the top of the Great Spyre. The wizard looks to the version of themself in the ring, finds dragonscale armor and a saber from one of the Gallium Paladins. Squeezes their eyes shut until the dark returns.

“This is their castle isn’t it?”

“One of ‘em.”

Go back, turn tail and run.

“I want to see a baby battledrake!”

“You’re going to regret this.”

“I deserve this. Show me.”

Hero. Child. Student. Savior. Shining one. Spellbinder.

Harbinger of Death, of Light, of Shadow.

You with starlight on your tongue and the spiral in your eyes.

Marked by the Raven and the Spider.

“Stop it.”

Murderer.

Oni Slayer.

Dragon Tamer.

Peacemaker.

Time weaver.

Liege of the Falling Sky.

“Quiet. Stop it!”

Damned by nature.

Divine by purpose.

Living Breathing Ever Changing Paradox.

Empty Vessel.

“Enough!” Their voice shatters the darkness and leaves them standing in a room of carved blue crystal. Every surface shows their own reflection, splintered, years and worlds apart. At the far end of the room they see the odd one out. A face that isn’t theirs anymore. Gaze far away but happy. It moves and shifts with them, as they all do, but it’s muted and off color. There are other smiles, dozens of moments frozen in time, covered in pixie dust or cat scratches or—

They meet the eyes of the one staring blankly back at them. Flat gold eyes and armor coated in glittering glass dust. When the wizard presses their fingers to the glass, they can hear the far off screaming of Azteca as it dies.

Every image of them stands solitary. Alone in the moment caught.

“Aha! The spell is working!”

The reflections flash so bright it’s blinding and then go dark.

The wizard stands alone, in front of the book of secrets. Laid open on a pedestal that had not been there moments before. The words on the page are accompanied, as always, by Raven’s voice.

What kind of wizard are you now?

Who have you become?

The wizard grits their teeth, slams the book shut and hurls it into the far side of the room, where it impacts and shatters the crystal of the wall. The reflection of them from earth is left misshapen, but still smiling softly.

They turn away, chest heaving, lungs drawing air that burns for the chill of it.

“Okay,” Their voice echoes a hundred times over, every reflection sharing the word. “you have my attention. What do you want.” But it’s in asking that they see cracks form along every splintered reflection of their past. Every word sends the fractures skittering further along. Interconnecting, doubling over, weaving—

The wizard’s stomach drops.

They aren’t fractures.

It’s web.

Read the rest here <3

[john-bracket]

Significant Jother Prelims!

The prelims for Jacket 4 will come in two waves after the winner’s bonus poll ends on Sunday, so get your votes in there.

First, there will be the prelims to decide between love interests for Johns/Jacks/Variants who had multiple submitted. There are eight of those matches, and they will be released throughout the day on Monday, July 10.

Then, there will be the prelims to decide which single nomination significant jothers will make the bracket. If a nomination was submitted multiple times as the only love interest, they are already in. There are 11 polls of four significant jothers, and the winner of each will make the bracket. Prelims were seeded by submission order, and those polls will be released throughout the day on Wednesday, July 12.

Match-ups below the cut!

Monday Match-ups: Who shall win the jand?

Prelim #1: Martin Blackwood (11) vs Georgie Barker (1) for Jonathan “Jon” Sims (The Magnus Archives)

Prelim #2: Jason Mendoza (5) vs Derek (1) for Janet (The Good Place)

Prelim #3: Mercymorn (2) vs Alecto (1) vs Augustine (1) vs Mercymorn + Augustine (0 but throuple rights) for John Gaius (The Locked Tomb)

Prelim #4: Zatanna Zatara (2) vs King Shark (2) for John Constantine (DC)

Prelim #5: Nisha Kadam (2) vs Moxxi (1) for Handsome Jack (Borderlands)

Prelim #6: Brad Majors (2) vs Frank-N-Furter (1) for Janet Weiss (Rocky Horror Picture Show)

Prelim #7: Shayera Hol (1) vs Mari McCabe (1) for John Stewart (DC)

Prelim #8: Rafael Solano (1) vs Michael Cordero (1) for Jane Villanueva (Jane the Virgin)

Wednesday Match-ups: I don’t have a funny name

Prelim A: Phryne Fisher for Jack Robinson (Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries) vs Kitty for Johnny Thirteen (Danny Phantom) vs Marguerite Baker for Jack Baker (Resident Evil) vs James “Jamey” Emerson Fletcher for Mary “Jacky” “Bloody Jack” Faber (Bloody Jack)

Prelim B: Naomi Herne for Evan Lukas (The Magnus Archives) vs Pete Tyler for Jackie Tyler (Doctor Who) vs Agnes Montague for Jack Barnabas (The Magnus Archives) vs Eric Bittle for Jack Zimmermann (Check, Please!)

Prelim C: Anna Bates for John Bates (Downton Abbey) vs Rose DeWitt for Jack Dawson (Titanic) vs Wendy Torrance for Jack Torrance (The Shining) vs Samatha Carter for Jack O’Neill (Stargate SG-1)

Prelim D: Joan of Arc for JFK (Clone High) vs JFK for Joan of Arc (Clone High) vs Elvira for Don Juan (Moliere) vs Pocahontas for John Smith (Pocahontas)

Prelim E: Penta Roujeat for Jack Wright (Namesake) vs Jethro Bodine for Jane Hathaway (Beverly Hillbillies) vs George Jetson for Jane Jetson (The Jetsons) vs Peter Parker for Mary-Jane Watson Parker (Marvel)

Prelim F: Thor for Jane Foster (Marvel) vs David Read for Jane Read (Arthur) vs Marla Singer for Jack/The Narrator (Fight Club) vs Sophie Aubrey for Jack Aubrey (Master and Commander)

Prelim G: Jay Nakamura for Jon Kent (DC) vs Satinder Hall for Ivo Keys (Shaderunners) vs Edward Rochester for Jane Eyre (Jane Eyre) vs Co Bao for John Rambo (Rambo)

Prelim H: Rosemary for Jack/Raider (Metal Gear Solid) vs Vriska Sekret for John Egbert (Homestuck) vs Maddie Fenton for Jack Fenton (Danny Phantom) vs Minnina for Jonathan Ratker (Dracula Starring Mickey Mouse)

Prelim I: Clary Fairchild for Jonathan Christopher “Jace” Herondale (The Mortal Instruments) vs Marisol Garza for Jonathan “Jon” Cartwright (The Shadowhunter Chronicles) vs Jo Lupo for Zane Donovan (Eureka) vs Robert Martin for Janet van de Graff (The Drowsy Chaperone)

Prelim J: Rebecca St. Claire for Jack Secord (Warehouse 13) vs David for Giovanni (Giovanni’s Room) vs Lucy Moderatz for Jack Pullman (While You Were Sleeping) vs Petra Solano for Jane “JR” Ramos (Jane the Virgin)

Prelim K: Scott Summers for Jean Gray (Marvel) vs Hessa for John the Baptist (The Wife of John the Baptist) vs Helen Wick for John Wick (John Wick) vs Patrick Bateman for Jean (American Psycho: The Musical)

[officermaddie23]

The first silver eyes book in a nutshell

Charlie Emily: Hey it's nice to meet you 

William Afton: This world is imperfect 

Charlie Emily: What 

William Afton: If only I could wipe away the impurities 

Charlie Emily: Is anyone else listening to that?

William Afton: And make it as beautiful as me 

(A few moments later) 

Marla: *gasps* WILLIAM AFTON YOU WERE BEHIND THIS

William Afton: Yes it is I for my intentions lay undetected for years for I am a master of deception

Charlie Emily: *giving the look of how could you guys not realize it was him face*