#t: dream hub theme

[vgtrackbracket]

Video Game Track Bracket Round 2

Fight Against an Armed Boss from Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

vs.

Dream Hub Theme from Hypnagogia: Boundless Dreams

Propaganda under the cut. If you want your propaganda reblogged and added to future polls, please tag it as propaganda or otherwise indicate this!

Dream Hub Theme:

From a game about exploring dreams, all of the music is atmospheric and beautiful, but this one sticks out as one of the best.

[ihavethedreamies]

Watermelon | Juicy Fruit | Mark [NSFW]

Mark Lee - NCT Dream

Rating: M (18+) MDNI

Word Count: ~1.5k

Pairing: Mark x AFAB!Reader

Genre: Reader-Insert, Smut, Established Relationship, Porn without Plot

!!This is smut…if that much isn't clear you should probably leave now!! MDNI!

Warnings: She/Her Pronouns used, Swearing, Kissing, Quickie, Sex in the Bathroom, Unprotected Sex (Don’t!!)

Summary: You end up making a bit of a mess with the watermelon…

Author's Note: This series was supposed to be of drabbles, and this is the second shortest one…sorry.

This is only vaguely based off of Smoothie…I say this because I got the idea for a fruit theme, but past that its unrelated.

-> Series Hub <-

🍇 Renjun 🍇

🍌 Jeno 🍌

🍒 Haechan 🍒

🍑 Jaemin 🍑

🍓 Chenle 🍓

🍍 Jisung 🍍

Revised (1/31/25)

I am cross-posting this on Archive. Please reblog! Share, even if its to the other sites! Let me know if you want to be on the taglist!

It’s hot. For you, too hot. And it’s just your luck that the boys want to dick around outside because the weather is nice. Nice? No, it’s hot as balls. While they run around screaming, playing games and throwing stuff, you sit on a canvas camping chair. Your electric fan's batteries have died so you’re futilely fanning yourself with a paper plate. Your thighs are sticking together, and your shorts are no help against the chafing. You shuffle again, grunting in discomfort, adjusting your sunglasses since they’ve slid down your nose from the sweat. Even in the shade of the tree and a slight breeze, it’s still much too hot. Mark had offered to run to the convenience store down the road from your rental house and get something to cool you off. Glancing at your phone for the time, you wonder what the hell is taking so long, you’re about to melt away.

"Noona~" Chenle calls but you can’t see him. Finally, he and Mark appear from around the house as they get to the backyard where the rest of your group is. The second youngest has several bags of snacks, but what really catches your attention is what your boyfriend has in his arms. It’s to no one's surprise he’s somehow acquired a watermelon.

"Finally!" You exhale harshly and Chenle dashes over to you, digging a cold bottle of water out and you yoink it from him eagerly, chugging it down and he laughs.

"Slow done, babe." Mark huffs, letting the watermelon wrapped in a mesh settle on the grass near your feet. He watches as a bit of water slips past your mouth and down your throat, landing on your white tank top, making the fabric darken. Swallowing, he shakes his head to focus his attention elsewhere and kneels near the melon so he can start cutting it.

"Uh, no." You shake your head, taking the knife from Mark that Renjun brings out.

"I can do it!" He whines and you give him a deadpan look and he just grumbles. Mark scoots over and you sit next to him, wrapping your legs around the big fruit to hold it in place. That looks even more dangerous than what he was planning, but you don’t keep it like that for long. Once you have dramatically stabbed the knife into the end of the rind, you adjust and easily and evenly slice it in half. Everyone watches in amazement as you deftly cut up the melon, laying each quarter of a slice into the big bowl Renjun also brought out.

"Wow, she actually cut it evenly." Jaemin points out, giving Mark a very pointed look. The eldest looks back at him, slightly confused, then offended.

"Hey!" He grumbles again and you grab a few slices with Mark and put them on a plate. While the rest of them continue to do whatever nonsense they were doing before, you and your boyfriend sit on the grass under the tree to eat the watermelon. Not thinking anything of it - because who would- you start to eat. It’s very juicy, and the man's attention keeps going back to your collarbone. After a big bite of the fruit, the juice spills over your bottom lip and runs down your chin, your throat, pools on your collar bone, then continues down to run into your cleavage. When you take another bite and even more juice spills out you cringe, sucking in to try and keep it in your mouth.

"Geez." You mumble, looking for a paper towel or napkin, something, to dry the juice. The pink liquid is already soaking into the white of your tank and luckily your bra is nude. Not only is your face and chest a mess, but your hands have gotten sticky. Mark watches your tongue lick furiously along your bottom lip, trying to get some of the juice off your chin.

"Let's get you cleaned up." You’re shocked at the speed of your boyfriend, who stands, hauling you up with him, and into the rental house. You both barely slip your sandals off upon entering and you’re a bit surprised that he drags you toward the bathroom and not the nearby kitchen to get to a sink.

"Where are we going?" you question, blinking in shock as he pulls you into the bathroom, shutting and locking the door. As you stand near the vanity, hands in the air to avoid getting things stuck to them, you watch in surprise as he pins you against the sink, his face getting very close. Even though he’s your boyfriend, the proximity and intense look on his face makes your own warm up red. His tongue flicks out, lapping at the drying juice on your face that’s just as sticky as the stuff on your hands. He groans as you shiver, his lips sealing over your own. Immediately you forget about your sticky hands, going to the back of his shirt to hold on as he lifts you to rest on the bathroom vanity. You do at least have the subconscious thought to not touch his hair. His own sticky hands meet your waist, sneaking under your flimsy white tank, running his thumb over your smooth skin, stuttering a bit from the juice. When his tongue enters your mouth, you both taste the sweet watermelon on each other. A trail of saliva connects your lips when he finally pulls away, both of you panting.

"Fuck." He loves the dazed look that’s spread across your face, and his smirks when his lips meet your neck, and you whine. His tongue runs along the path he’d watched the juice flow over the skin, cleaning you off and at the same time heating your skin and core. Your hips jump up from the counter, your denim covered mound grinding against his cock tenting his swim trunks. Mark continues to suck and nibble at you as he moves to follow that path of the watermelon juice, before your shirt covers the final destination. He pulls back just enough to get it off of you, the white material sticking briefly to his fingers. Yours sticks even more to his shirt as you haul it off of him. Mark's mouth and tongue trace and nuzzle your breasts as he gets your bra unhooked and off. Using his tongue to follow the trail of juice, he diverts at your sternum, sealing his lips over your nipple. You sigh, resting back on the counter so your bare back touches the cold mirror. As your boyfriend focuses on the other side, he helps you wiggle your shorts off. You don’t have any panties on since your shorts are so tight, and it’s so hot out anyway.

"Fuck… (Y/N)~" You’ll never gets used to way he moans your name.

"Mark, hurry." You furrow your brow in playful frustration, trying to reach the waist band of his swim trunks to get them off. He huffs in amusement, having a better reach to do it himself.

"Hurry, hurry~" You nearly bounce in anticipation and his chuckle turns to a groan as he starts to sink his cock inside of you. Your body shivers, your hand going to your mouth to try and muffle the pitiful moan you let out as he bottoms out. Like usual, you’re soaked for him, making the entry easy.

"Try and stay quiet, baby." He rests his forehead on your shoulder, hands on your hips. You hiccup when he gives a short but hard thrust, keeping up that pace, rapidly bringing you close to your orgasm already. His pelvis grinds against your clit every time he fills you fully, and your breath hitches each time. He gives a breathless chuckle at how cute you are, not noticing that his thrusts are strong enough to shake the vanity. The ceramic cup holding some toothbrushes rattles each time, growing closer and closer to the edge.

"Damn-" Mark groans as quietly as he can, pulling your hips to the very edge of the vanity, your back sliding down the mirror before landing on the marble. You wrap your legs around his waist, hand pressed hard over your mouth, the other gripping the bar on the wall that holds up the hand towel. Your boyfriend runs his tongue over his smirking bottom lip, enjoying watching you try desperately to stay quiet as he fucks you. He only slightly pauses when the cup finally falls over, landing on the tile floor and shattering. It’s out of the way, so his hips stutter a bit, but he continues with a huff when you whine in desperation at the halt.

"Shit, babe-" He groans, and you moan as well, feeling your own climax getting closer. You both fall over when he does a final grind against your clit, as deep as he can go, spilling inside of you. The heat of his cum brings you over as well, and you pull your hand from your mouth, panting quietly.

"S-sorry." Mark suddenly feels guilty for hauling you into the bathroom to fuck while all of your friends are possibly in ear shot.

"Th…that's okay." You give him a tired smile and he kisses you softly with a giggle. After cleaning up a bit and straightening clothes and hair back up, you slip back outside, and it seems like no one had even noticed you two had been gone. Later, when you’re inside to eat supper, you hear a loud shout from the bathroom.

"Who broke the toothbrush mug?!"

-> Series Hub <-

Master-Master List

NCT Master List

[anewbeginningagain]

Skate Canada's pushing of Piper and Paul was penny smart and dollar stupid. At least I think they woke up towards the end of the season and we'll see more investment in Marjo and Zak moving forward.

I think C/B will def retire, P2 could go either way (they will if they're smart, their criminal overscoring gave them the wrong impression and Canada needs a young team to be able to move up), FB/S will stay if they're able, and I'm pretty sure the Italians will continue. The only thing that could throw a wrench into things is if Russia is allowed back in - they'll be aggressive and they'll push for a podium finish to secure spots (otherwise why would they be making StepBuk contintue?). So the only medal I can see F/G potentially squeezing out is a bronze this upcoming season. If the situation continues like this, I can easily see P/C try to come back because these teams are truly holding the door open for them.

As for the Finnish team, we have to look at it from the perspective of how Finland has stepped in to host events and these medals have sort of been their repayment for it. The best thing about it is that Pirihara get to go to Europeans and Worlds next year. We also have to look at how the different feds are trying to court Italy because it's hosting the upcoming Olympics. The Finns are with an Italian coach, a lot of teams/skaters are training in Italy, so on and so forth. What's interesting is that it looks like the Russians are trying to adopt the Montreal model and moving all the teams to Zhulin to concentrate power (I'm 98% certain that's where Khuda/Bazin are going). There are too many unknowns atm to say anything for sure, but in terms of who will cement themselves within the next 2 years as the team to beat, my money is on LaLa - they have the talent and the tenure.

Yoooo I was right! Khuda/Bazin to Zhulin! Lmfaoooo if he can't get skaters from multiple other countries to come train there, his dream of being Russia's response to Marie-France is dead. I thought he was considering retirement after he got pummeled in the team event? I wish he'd just go tf away already.

As mentioned, I fully tend to believe all top 3 are sticking around. Though I will stan both Madi and Piper if they opened those 80s spotify playlists just to fuck with fs twitter, that will be hilarious tbh.

Not doubt Finland stepped up in a big way, and I also do think T/V are a good team, but their scores and especially the GOE does not match what is being shown of the ice and that's my main criticism. Like they have great lifts but was their combo lift the best of the season? Hell no, their twizzles are often horrible, some of their moves are basic, and the themes they use are repetitive. That should be reflected in the scores.

Also agree about the Russians, I legit fear their return, men is tolerable but the rest of the disciplines are legit suffering tremendously from their presence as much as it's unfortunate to admit as I don't like generalizing about skaters from the same federation this way. But no way in hell should they return, not while they are still state-funded and institutionally doped.

The russian federation is 100% trying to make Zhulin as a copy of I.AM, it's basically I.AM if they were racist, abusive, and sucked at choreography and packaging. They are now sending most teams to him and I won't be surprised if Krylova's team will be convinced to move to him as well. And once he will have top 5 Russian teams and Russian is allowed back in, they will push for teams from Italy, Georgia, Spain, and so on to go to him as well until he will become a dance hub like I.AM is and increase his political force. And this might be the worst development of them all (maybe tied with having Eteri and her minions ruin women skating again, and having Russian pairs doing shitty programs with sbs 3Lz and quad throws and winning stuff). Sigh this is depressing.

[musicverse11]

Vishal Mishra’s Breakthrough Moments in Music

From the quaint lanes of Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, to the glittering world of Bollywood, Vishal Mishra journey is nothing short of inspirational. A self-made artist, Vishal’s rise to fame epitomizes determination, passion, and the ability to transform dreams into reality. Today, he stands as one of the most celebrated composers and singers in Indian cinema, captivating audiences with his soulful melodies and poignant lyrics. His story is a beacon of hope for aspiring artists who dare to dream big.

Early Life and Beginnings

Born on December 8, 1990, in Unnao, Vishal Mishra displayed an innate love for music from an early age. Growing up in a family that appreciated art and culture, Vishal was drawn to melodies and rhythms, experimenting with musical instruments and mimicking popular songs. However, his small-town upbringing came with challenges. Opportunities were scarce, and the path to a career in music seemed daunting. Yet, Vishal’s resolve was unshaken.

His participation in local music competitions became a stepping stone for honing his talent. Despite being far from the glamorous hubs of Mumbai, Vishal never let his geographical limitations define his potential. His early experiences nurtured his passion and provided the foundation for his artistic journey.

The Reality Show Phase

Vishal’s first foray into the professional music scene came through reality shows. He participated in the DD National reality show Bharat Ki Shaan: Singing Star, which provided him with a platform to showcase his talent to a wider audience. While he didn’t emerge as the winner, the experience enriched his skills and gave him a glimpse of the fiercely competitive world of Indian music.

A pivotal moment in his life came when he auditioned for Indian Idol. Despite being disqualified at the early stages, Vishal turned this setback into an opportunity to grow. Instead of succumbing to disappointment, he sought mentorship and guidance, which eventually shaped his career. His association with Lalit Pandit of the famed Jatin-Lalit composer duo proved instrumental. Lalit’s mentorship honed Vishal’s abilities, instilling in him the technical prowess and industry knowledge required to thrive.

Breaking Into Bollywood

Vishal Mishra’s Bollywood debut came in 2016 with the Tamil film Devi, where he showcased his composition skills. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey as a composer. However, it was his work on the song Jaane De from the film Qarib Qarib Singlle that catapulted him into the limelight. Sung by Atif Aslam, the song became an instant hit, resonating with audiences for its soulful tune and heartfelt lyrics.

Vishal’s unique ability to blend traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds set him apart. This versatility became his hallmark as he composed for a variety of projects, including regional films and Bollywood blockbusters. His singing debut in Munna Michael further showcased his multifaceted talent, solidifying his position in the industry.

Musical Style and Philosophy

What makes Vishal Mishra’s music stand out is its emotional depth. His compositions often revolve around universal themes of love, heartbreak, hope, and self-discovery. His ability to translate raw emotions into melodious tunes has struck a chord with listeners across generations. Tracks like Kaise Hua from Kabir Singh and Veere from Veere Di Wedding exemplify his knack for creating music that lingers in the hearts of the audience.

In an industry driven by trends, Vishal remains steadfast in his commitment to authenticity. He believes that music should evoke emotions and tell stories, a philosophy evident in his work. His exploration of varied genres, from soulful ballads to upbeat anthems, reflects his dedication to pushing creative boundaries.

Collaborations and Major Achievements

Vishal’s collaborations with leading music labels like T-Series and Zee Music Company have been pivotal in expanding his reach. These partnerships have not only amplified his visibility but also allowed him to work with some of the biggest names in the industry.

His contributions to the film Kabir Singh were particularly noteworthy. The album, featuring songs like Kaise Hua and Pehla Pyaar, earned him widespread recognition and multiple awards, including the prestigious Filmfare Award. These accolades are a testament to his growing influence and undeniable talent.

Beyond Bollywood, Vishal has also contributed to independent music, creating tracks that resonate with contemporary audiences. His single Manjha became a chart-topping hit, reflecting his ability to appeal to diverse listener demographics.

Inspiration for Aspiring Artists

Vishal Mishra’s story is more than a tale of success; it’s a masterclass in resilience. His journey from a small-town boy with big dreams to a Bollywood icon underscores the importance of perseverance, learning from failures, and staying true to one’s passion.

For aspiring artists, Vishal’s path offers valuable lessons. His focus on continuous improvement, adaptability across genres, and unwavering commitment to authenticity serves as a blueprint for navigating the competitive world of music.

Conclusion

Vishal Mishra journey is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. His ability to overcome obstacles, embrace opportunities, and create timeless music has established him as a luminary in the Indian music industry. As he continues to explore new horizons, Vishal remains an inspiration for anyone seeking to transform their passion into a profession.

Dive into Vishal Mishra’s melodious world by exploring his discography on popular music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Share his story with budding musicians to inspire them, and follow his journey on social media for updates on his latest projects. Vishal Mishra’s music isn’t just for listening — it’s for feeling, and his journey is a reminder that dreams truly can come true.

[svgbank8]

Fashion Meets Fandom: Arizona Cardinals SVG Apparel Ideas

Calling all fashion-forward Arizona Cardinals fans! Are you ready to take your game-day style to the next level? With the power of Arizona Cardinals SVGs, you can transform your wardrobe into a vibrant canvas of team spirit. Let's dive into a world of creative apparel ideas that will have you looking and feeling like a true Cardinals champion. If you're looking for creative ways to use Arizona Cardinals SVG apparel, be sure to read our guide on designing unique fan gear.

Why SVGs are a Fashionista's Dream

Unmatched Versatility: SVGs, or Scalable Vector Graphics, offer unparalleled flexibility when it comes to apparel design. They can be resized without losing quality, ensuring your Cardinals emblems look sharp on everything from a subtle pocket tee to a bold statement jacket.

Customization is Key: Express your unique style by customizing SVGs with your favorite colors, adding personalized text, or incorporating your own creative flair.

Endless Possibilities: From classic logos to dynamic player silhouettes, our collection of Arizona Cardinals SVG offers a diverse range of designs to suit any fashion taste.

Apparel Ideas to Elevate Your Fandom

T-Shirts & Tank Tops:

Classic Logo Tee: A timeless staple for any Cardinals fan. Choose a bold, centered logo for a classic look, or opt for a smaller, more subtle design for everyday wear.

Player Silhouette: Showcase your admiration for your favorite player with a dynamic silhouette design.

Vintage-Inspired: Capture the nostalgia of Cardinals history with a vintage-inspired graphic or throwback logo.

Motivational Quote: Combine a powerful Cardinals wordmark with an inspiring quote to create a statement piece.

Hoodies & Sweatshirts:

Cozy Cardinals: Stay warm and stylish with a Cardinals-themed hoodie or sweatshirt featuring a large, eye-catching design on the back.

Subtle & Sophisticated: Opt for a minimalist design, such as a small embroidered logo on the chest, for a more understated look.

Color Block: Combine Cardinals colors with contrasting hues for a bold and modern aesthetic.

Hats & Caps:

Classic Logo Cap: A must-have for any Cardinals fan. Choose a classic baseball cap or a trendy snapback with the iconic logo front and center.

Player Number: Rep your favorite player's number on a stylish cap.

Mascot Mania: Add a touch of fun with a design featuring the Cardinals mascot.

Other Apparel Options:

Jackets & Vests: Embroider a Cardinals logo or design onto a denim jacket or vest for a personalized touch.

Leggings & Joggers: Stay comfortable and stylish with Cardinals-themed leggings or joggers perfect for workouts or lounging.

Bags & Totes: Carry your Cardinals pride wherever you go with a custom-designed tote bag or backpack.

Tips for Creating Stylish Cardinals Apparel

Choose the Right Colors: Stick to the official Cardinals color palette (Cardinal Red, White, and Black) or explore complementary colors for a unique twist.

Consider Placement: Think about where you want your design to be placed on the garment. A large, centered design makes a bold statement, while a smaller design on the chest or sleeve offers a more subtle touch.

Experiment with Fonts: If you're adding text to your design, choose a font that complements the overall aesthetic and is easy to read.

Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality materials and printing techniques to ensure your apparel looks and feels great.

Ready to Elevate Your Game-Day Style?

With Arizona Cardinals SVGs, the possibilities for creating stylish and personalized apparel are endless.

Explore our collection of Arizona Cardinals SVGs today and start designing your dream wardrobe!

Additional Resources to Fuel Your Fashion Inspiration:

Unleash Your Cardinals Pride with Arizona Cardinals SVGs! - Our comprehensive hub article provides a deep dive into the world of Cardinals SVGs and their creative potential.

Creative Ways to Use Arizona Cardinals SVGs - Get inspired with even more ideas for using SVGs in your projects.

How to Use Arizona Cardinals SVGs - New to SVGs? No problem! Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

Arizona Cardinals Game Day SVGs - Elevate your game-day experience with festive decorations and DIY projects.

Arizona Cardinals SVG Gifts - Find the perfect personalized gift for any Cardinals fan.

Remember, fashion is a form of self-expression. Let your Cardinals pride shine through your wardrobe with custom-designed apparel that reflects your unique style and unwavering support for the team.

Go Cardinals!

[tnghotelsandresorts]

How to Choose the Perfect Hotel for Your Destination Wedding

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, but finding the perfect hotel to host your celebration can be a daunting task. The right hotel can make all the difference, transforming your wedding into a magical experience.

T&G Hotels and Resorts stands out as an exceptional choice for couples seeking the perfect setting for their special day.

Here’s a guide to help you choose the ideal hotel for your destination wedding.

Define Your Vision

Before you start your search, take some time to define your vision for the wedding. Are you dreaming of a beachside ceremony, a grand ballroom affair, or a cozy, intimate gathering at a charming fort? Your vision will help narrow down your hotel options and ensure that the venue aligns with your expectations.

Consider the Location

The location of the hotel is crucial. It should be accessible to your guests, and it should complement your wedding theme. Think about whether you want a hotel in a bustling city, a secluded resort, or a charming countryside setting. Consider the local weather, as it can affect both your comfort and the overall experience.

T&G Hotels and Resorts presents two stunning destinations ideal for a destination wedding:

Jim Corbett – Courtyard A Luxury Resort: Nestled in the natural splendor of Jim Corbett, Courtyard A Luxury Resort offers a picturesque setting with breathtaking views and seamless access to the national park’s attractions. Perfect for a serene and nature-inspired wedding surrounded by lush landscapes. For those exploring hotels in Jim Corbett, this resort stands out for its blend of luxury and natural beauty.

Sonipat – Shree Jee Vilas: Located in the vibrant city of Sonipat, Shree Jee Vilas provides an elegant and sophisticated venue with easy access to business and cultural hubs. An excellent choice for a stylish wedding with a central location that blends modern amenities with classic charm. For those looking to book hotels in Murthal, this venue offers a convenient and upscale option nearby.

Evaluate the Hotel’s Amenities

When choosing a hotel, look at the amenities offered. Key features to consider include:

Event Spaces: Ensure the hotel has the right type of event spaces for your ceremony and reception. Check if they offer indoor and outdoor options and whether they can accommodate your guest list.

Catering Services: Determine if the hotel provides catering services or if you’ll need to arrange for an external caterer. Ask about menu options, customization, and dietary accommodations.

Accommodation: Ensure there are enough rooms for your guests and consider whether they offer special packages or discounts for wedding parties.

Additional Services: Look for additional services such as a pool, or any other fun activities that could enhance the experience for your guests.

Check the Hotel’s Reputation and Reviews

Research the hotel’s reputation by reading reviews from previous couples who have hosted their weddings there and check on the website.

Budget is always a key factor. Get a detailed breakdown of costs, including room rates, event space rental, catering, and any additional fees. Inquire about any hidden costs and ensure there are no surprises. Compare different hotels to find the best value for your money.

      8.Visit the Hotel

If possible, visit the hotel before making your final decision. This will give you a feel for the space, the quality of service, and the overall ambiance.

      9.Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. If a hotel feels right and aligns with your vision and budget, it’s likely the perfect choice for your destination wedding. Your intuition will guide you in making the best decision for your special day.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect hotel for your destination wedding is a crucial step in ensuring that your special day is everything you’ve dreamed of. By defining your vision, considering the location, evaluating amenities, and thoroughly researching your options, you can find a venue that perfectly aligns with your needs and preferences.

T&G Hotels and Resorts offers exceptional services that can elevate your destination wedding experience. With their stunning locations, exquisite event spaces, and exceptional catering services, T&G Hotels and Resorts provides a range of options to match your wedding vision. Their personalized wedding planning, luxurious accommodations, and exclusive packages simplify the planning process and ensure a seamless experience.

Visit our website - https://tnghotelsandresorts.com/how-to-choose-the-perfect-hotel-for-your-destination-wedding/

[luxurypropertiesworld]

Ringing in 2024: Best Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Gurgaon

As the countdown to 2024 begins, the vibrant city of Gurgaon  is gearing up for a spectacular celebration to welcome the New Year. From pulsating parties to serene getaways, Gurgaon offers a myriad of options for residents to usher in the year with joy and enthusiasm. We are probably closer to the end of this year than we want to admit and there is no better way to start the new year of 2024 than with an unforgettable night out with your friends and family. Are you eagerly awaiting New Year's Eve to attend these glittering New Year parties Gurgaon? As you prepare to ring in the  new year 2024 with full enthusiasm. Let's explore the top places to revel in the festivities and create unforgettable memories.

Spectacular Skyline Soiree at Cyber Hub:

Location: Cyber Hub, DLF Cyber City

For those who love a blend of city lights and festivities, Cyber Hub is the place to be. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky above Cyber Hub transforms into a canvas of bursting colors. With an array of restaurants and bars offering special New Year packages, you can indulge in delectable cuisines and refreshing drinks while enjoying live music and entertainment. The lively atmosphere and dazzling skyline make Cyber Hub a top choice for a dynamic New Year's celebration.

Rustic Retreat at Damdama Lake:

Location: Damdama Lake

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embrace the tranquility of Damdama Lake for a unique New Year's Eve experience. Several resorts around the lake organize special events with bonfires, live music, and lakeside dining. Imagine welcoming the New Year surrounded by nature, under a star-studded sky. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a more laid-back and intimate celebration away from the urban chaos.

  High-Energy Bash at Kingdom of Dreams:

Location: Kingdom of Dreams, Sector 29

For a night filled with entertainment and glamour, Kingdom of Dreams in Sector 29 is your go-to destination. This cultural and entertainment hotspot hosts extravagant New Year's Eve parties featuring live performances, DJ sets, and themed celebrations. Dance the night away in the vibrant ambiance of this cultural hub, where every corner is brimming with excitement. The Kingdom of Dreams guarantees a high-energy celebration that will leave you with lasting memories.

  Family-Friendly Fun at Appu Ghar Express:

Location: Appu Ghar Express, Sector 29

If you're looking for a family-friendly celebration, head to Appu Ghar Express in Sector 29. With a range of amusement rides, games, and activities for all ages, this venue promises a delightful New Year's Eve for families. The colorful and lively environment, coupled with special entertainment programs, ensures that both kids and adults have a fantastic time. Embrace the joy of the season with your loved ones in this fun-filled setting.

  Rooftop Revelry at Farzi Cafe:

Location: Farzi Cafe, Cyber Hub

For those who fancy a rooftop celebration with a touch of sophistication, Farzi Cafe in Cyber Hub offers a stylish setting for New Year's Eve. The rooftop ambiance, coupled with a special New Year's menu and signature cocktails, creates a chic and memorable experience. Revel in the panoramic views of the city skyline while enjoying a culinary journey of modern Indian cuisine. Farzi Cafe promises a classy celebration for those with a taste for luxury.

  Cultural Extravaganza at Epicentre:

Location: Epicentre, Sector 44

If you appreciate cultural performances and artistic expressions, Epicentre in Sector 44 is the place to be. This cultural center hosts special New Year's events featuring live music, dance performances, and artistic displays. Immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the evening and celebrate the New Year in a setting that embraces the cultural diversity of Gurgaon. Epicentre provides a unique and enriching experience for those seeking a more artistic celebration.

  As Gurgaon prepares to bid adieu to the old and welcome the new, these diverse venues cater to various preferences, ensuring that everyone finds the perfect spot to celebrate. Whether you prefer a lively cityscape, a tranquil lakeside retreat, or a culturally infused extravaganza, Gurgaon has something special in store for you this New Year's Eve. Cheers to a joyful and memorable 2024!

[bodhitreehotel]

Hotel Near Patna Railway Station: Hotel Bodhi Tree

Hotel Bodhi Tree is the best hotel near Patna Railway Station. Hotel Bodhi Tree is not just a hotel; it's an experience that offers unmatched convenience, luxury, and hospitality. Patna's Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport is the gateway to the city for air travelers. Hotel Bodhi Tree is is one of the top hotel near Patna Airport , ensuring a hassle-free transition from your flight to the comfort of your hotel room. This is particularly advantageous for business travelers who value time and efficiency.

Celebrating weddings in Patna is a grand affair, and selecting the right venue is paramount to the success of the event. Hotel Bodhi Tree offers a magnificent marriage hall that caters to couples dreaming of a lavish and memorable wedding ceremony. The spacious and elegantly decorated hall can accommodate a large number of guests, making it suitable for both intimate gatherings and extravagant celebrations.

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[propertis]

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[give-grian-rights]

Bets Against The Void (Whitelist AU)

Well.. I DID IT. This is only chapter 1. I planned on this being a one-shot, but if it was, it would take me so long to finish it. So, chapters it is.

This is crossposted on AO3. I don’t exactly stand with a lot of what it’s doing, but it’s not particularly easy to find fics on Tumblr I feel..and I will never go back to Wattpad. Not again.

@petrichormeraki Whitelist AU fic :)

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

They had just left the server to practice for MCC, that was all. Wilbur would be so proud, the two youngest would be sure, if they managed to win one. For Tommy, it would be his first win not aided by his  (Troubled, distrustful, anarchist-)  family, and Tubbo’s first-ever. 

Teams for the next MCC had yet to be announced, but it hadn’t mattered. Tommy had been invited back to every competition since MCC 2, after all- and the competition had already become accommodating to Tubbo, following the..Circumstances, of The Festival. 

The admins hosting the event were concerned, following the events they’d hear of about their server. They hadn’t known much; no one outside their world, really did. But, well..When asked about the status of Wilbur, and if he’d attend- the silence and reaction of the residents of his world were telling.

Barely a handful of players were at the server, practicing. It was calming, for the teenagers. The two had primarily stuck together, as they tended to do after the Pogtopia-Manburg war. The siblings were back together again. And they had each other- they trusted each other, unquestionably. Something more than they could say about anyone else.

By the time they made it back to the world hub, they were already exhausted. The timezone of their server would be late, they were sure. Their arms ached, and legs wobbled with every step. They both felt as if they could fall down, anytime.

Tubbo’s arm was looped around Tommy’s, content to be in the presence of his best friend, without the responsibility of the world on either of their shoulders’. Other players had barely batted an eye at the two- it wasn’t uncommon for teenagers or children to server hop by themselves. Nor for someone passing through a world hub to have outlandish and otherworldly scars. For them to both be teenagers, and scarred so heavily- well, that was a different story.

Still, not a soul stopped them as the tall blond led his friend to a nearby empty portal. As they stood still, Tubbo instinctively released his arm from the boy. Tommy kept Tubbo grounded to him as he worked, talking idly to them and inquiring about build plans. As Tubbo talked, Tommy quickly fidgeted with his communication tablet.

The thin, hovering device was pressed against the large obsidian frame of an otherwise normal, unlit portal.  Pressing out of his inventory, which by mandatory was empty, Tommy opened his server list. The individually named servers popped up. 

Some servers were empty, others grayed out and unavailable, no longer tended to. Muscle memory brought him to Dream SMP.  The status of the server was buffering- it’s availability of connection unclear. It wasn’t unusual- not for world hubs filled with tens of thousands of players at any given time.

With their SMP selected, the portal flickered for a moment- sparks of neon green rippling within, before quickly fading. The whooshes and crackling of a portal being lit, before failing, caught Tubbo’s ears.

“Uh...Is- is the portal good? Did it light? Why does it feel like it’s uh- not?” They tilted his head to the side, towards Tommy. The blond paused for a moment, blinking in bewilderment with his brows furrowed. “No- no it’s not lit..Uh.. What the shit? Hold on, Tubbo-” he huffed, pulling his tablet off the obsidian wall with ease to inspect it.

Blue eyes squinted at the screen. At the edge of the selection for Dream SMP, was an error sign, much to Tommy’s slight horror. “Fucking..Shit-” he hissed, pressing the icon. “‘Server closed for maintence’- what the fuck!” The teen spat. That got a few heads turned him, at his shouts. Most continued walking, merely giving him a wary glance.

Tubbo’s mouth dropped, scrambling for words. “Wh- why? I- I mean, I guess it makes sense- the- the server’s been acting up, and stuff- but- with what noticed?” He squawked, fumbling with their own device. Gliding their hand over the graphics, each thing he touched was read aloud to him quietly in his comm systems.

While Tubbo worked on locating his own messages, Tommy already found his. He scoffed indignantly, his hand clenching at the frame of the tablet. “The chat system for the server’s down too! Holy shit, fucking- what? Were no one fucking prepared for if we all get knocked out of the server at once? What the fuck!” Slight panic edged into his angered words as he shouted.

“Guess not,” Tubbo shrugged, pushing his tablet away, already frustrated with it. “Did Dream send out any sort of alert, for this?” Tommy only scoffed. The brunnett was sure he was rolling his eyes, as well. “Yeah, with a three-minute fuckin’ notice!  Just told everyone to figure it out for themselves, while he fixed shit! What a lil bitch!”

Glares were most certainly being sent towards them by now, Tubbo was sure. Gently pressing himself against the visibly upset and angered boy, he looped their arms back together, reassuringly squeezing his hand.. “We should get out of the way. I’m sure other people are waiting, there’s nothing we can do.” The brunett resigned himself to being the level-headed one between them.

“We can’t just fucking stay here, Tubbo! We ain’t got shit to eat, or anything. It’s not exactly like we thought of packing shit for a few hours of practicing!” The boy protested. He had just gotten L’manburg back, finally, a place he and his Tubbo were okay.

After a moment of silence, Tubbo would speak up once more. “I started installing some more, uh..Hack clients-” “TUBBO WHAT THE SHIT!” “Please, I’d really like to not get in major trouble today.” They’d wince, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. The feeling of stares lingered on his back.

“I got a client that should let me into the world last opened on a portal- which, in this case, should be Dream’s server. So we can get on there and- “Call Dream a dick.”

“Exactly. I wouldn’t think it’s dangerous, or unstable or anything to be there..I’m sure he and the rest of Dream Team are there.”

Walking back to the portal, guiding Tubbo back with him, Tommy unattached his own device from the frame. “Uh, want me to put yours on the portal? Or do you got it, Big Man?” The blond tilted his head towards the other boy expectantly.

Dipping their head in thought for a moment, Tubbo hummed. “You can do it. It’s all set up- besides I already turned my text-to-speech off, I was getting a headache from the voice.”  They decided, handing off his tablet to Tommy.

Within moments, Tommy had gotten it set up. Rather than having an individual server selected, the “Connect” button had been highlighted as seen as he reached his friend’s serverlist. 

A flurry of colors splashed within the portal, before settling on a distorting purple. Tommy squinted, glancing towards Tubbo. “That..Does not look like Dream’s server color.” Tubbo tilted his head curiously. “Well.. The site did say it could do that- It’s kinda just ripping the IP and plugging it in illigitmently- it’s incapable of displaying the correct resource, basically.” He played with his friend’s sleeve idly.

“..Fucking- alright, sure. Assuming this is safe- are you ready to hop in?” He pushed down any doubts. Really, nothing worse than what the two already lived through could happen. Tubbo grinned, nodding their head. And so, Tommy led the boy into the portal alongside him. Swirling particles filled his vision, as they flurried around the two- and then they were stumbling to the ground.

Tommy’s eyes shot opened- a dull, thudding pain in the back of his head, as he got his footing. Tubbo was doing the same, losing his hold on Tommy to lean against the portal frame to catch himself.  “...Well. Fuck.” Tommy hissed, rubbing his temple as he looked around the room.

The large portal behind them had dropped them into a large, pyramid-shaped room. The floor below them was sandy, greenery and bookshelves pressed against the walls. Tommy’s mouth dropped to the floor as he viewed ahead of him.

“W-What the fuck! What the shit these people- th-there’s just! Diamond armor!  On display - t-they have fucking elytras!  Holy fucking shit! ” He stammered out the words, his brows furrowed together in complete bewilderment.

“What? That’s insane!..This- this sounds like an ocean? Why can I hear water? Are we on an island?” Tubbo warily stepped, testing his footing.

Tommy instinctively reached back to grab his friend’s hand protectively, nodding vigorously. “I think we’re fuckin’ underwater, or some shit! There’s a water column, and- and the walls fuckin’ tilt, and then it’s all water and shit! The ceiling is just the ocean!”

..Descriptions never seemed to be Tommy’s strong suit. Nonetheless, Tubbo nodded along to the words, warily listening. All that could be heard was the crashing water overhead the water-bound structure. The boy shivered with unease at this.

“Are there any players? Did- did us joining get sent through the comm system, do you think?” Tubbo summoned his comm’s back to his hands, but Tommy must’ve already had his out. “Fuckin- i’m still connected to Dream’s. It didn’t give me the option to look at whoever the fuck’s this is. Tommy growled, uneasiness and anxiety gnawing at him.

 And then, there was a flash of light and particles. A man in a..Bee-themed, space/futuristic-Esque suit appears on the other side of the room. Another, far more mundane seeming man, manifested next to him.

The energy in the room shifted to something unfamiliar to the two teens. Tubbo shivered, desperately grasping tighter at Tommy. The blond boy had stood rigid, blue eyes cold and wary as he stared challengingly at the two strangers.

While the helmeted, bee-colored man visibly had plates of enchanted Netherite glittering on him, the human beside him was bare of any protection, defenses, or armor.   The teen didn’t know what to make of either of them.

Pacifyingly holding up a weaponless hand, the helmet man cleared his throat. “We weren’t particularly expecting visitors, or any surprise drop-ins this late to our season.” Their voice wasn’t accusatory, but it certainly edged on the skeptical side

From the yellow-tinted helmet, Tommy could barely make out a faint reflection of light in purple eyes. His throat felt full of vile, the blond boy practically growling as he held he pushed himself in front of Tubbo.

In retaliation, Tubbo gently shouldered the boy before poking out beside him, facing vaguely towards the man who spoke. “I’m sorry for him- this..This is an accident, uh, Sir.” They chuckled anxiously.

The helmeted man- who by now, Tommy had presumed was the admin- tilted his head. “While accidents aren’t necessarily uncommon on a server such as ours- one quite like this, so far into our progress certainly is.” The Southern fellow beside the bee-helmet man spoke up, his expression passive and at ease as he stared over the boys.

“You two don’t look like you’re here to give us issues- don’t you agree, X?” The helme-  X,  apparently- surveyed the two teenagers for a moment more, before nodding. “Good, then.” The human(?) smiled, dipping his head.

Tommy scoffed, glaring at the man.  “Where the fuck are we?” The blond’s eyes flickered between the two adults stood opposite of them. While the man remained unphased, glancing expectantly at X- said player took a step back, tilting their head.

“Well, considering there’s not really a way to  accidentally derp your way into here- I’d expect you’d know.” While X wasn’t unkind, his tone was expectant. Accusatory, maybe. 

Before Tommy could open his mouth to blabber and cover their asses, Tubbo put his arm out in front of the other. “It really was an..An accident- it wasn’t this server we were trying to get into- wherever we are.” He’d chuckle uneasily, shifting their weight. They weren’t sure what to make of their unknown surroundings.

“Our home-server seems to be down.. And- no one told us where to go,  so I said i knew a way we might be able to go back, and uh..It got us here.”  They’d finish, anxiety spiking as he was unable to gauge their reaction.

“Yeah- and we’re not gonna fuckin’ do shit. We don’t even know where the fuck we are. Just- leave us be!  Or send us back, or some shit-” “Alright, alright! Hey, we’re not fighting with you!” X would cut off Tommy, who’s blue eyes shot a cold glare to the slightly frazzled man.

The younger Brit couldn’t help but get amusement from the way the masked man was so visibly startled from his swears. “You two..Don’t particularly look in the condition to just.. stay in the World Hub. Do you have someplace else to go? How long have you been locked out?” 

Beside the apparent Admin, who had not-so-subtly manifested a transparent screen in front of him, the human looked in exasperated amusement at the helmeted fellow. “Forgetting something there, Shashwammy?” The Southern man spoke with fondness.

Before the admin could react, the man turned back towards the accidental intruders. “You’re in the wonderful world of hermits and crafting, my friends! Hermitcraft Seven, to be specific. I’m Joe, of the Hills variety- and this is my pal, Xisumavoid! Though he’ll likely go by just about anything you can think to call him.”

Tommy looked beside him at Tubbo for a moment, his brows pinched together as he quietly scoffed. This is gonna get really tiring if he talks like this all the time. The blond thought absentmindedly.

In the meantime, Tubbo himself was speechless- positively bursting at the seams. “Hermitcraft?! This is Hermitcraft? Oh, oh void I just broke into Hermitcraft-” They babbled for a moment, jittering as he attempted to compose himself. Tommy raised a brow, eyeing them. 

“You say that as if that means fuckin’ anything to me, Tubbo-”

“I. I’m so sorry, uh, Mr. Hills, Mr. Void!” Their voice cracked, as the words ran out of his mouth. “I swear this isn’t something we do on the regular, I’d never want to disrespect anyone, or any server- especially not Hermitcraft!” He’d continue, laughing anxiously. 

“I’m a huge fan of the work done here! Just, everything I’ve seen- uh, and, and heard, about the Hermits! Fu- frick. Uh. Sorry!”  Tubbo finished, practically panting. 

While Joe had seemed appreciative and amused, Tommy couldn’t get a read on Xisuma. Not that he particularly cared what either of them felt; he barely understood the meaning of the words from Tubbo, all that mattered was they weren’t about to belittle the other boy.

“Mr. Void.. That- that might be a new one-” The British admin had quietly chuckled easily, shaking his head. “No, no need for that. I’m Xisuma, or X. I’m glad you appreciate our work, the Hermits around here work non-stop. And we’d be glad to try and help you two, yes?”

“We don’t fuckin’ need help- We stay here, or we don’t. We don’t need pity or some shit. If you’re gonna get all fussy at the fuckin’ idea of us staying in the Worldhub, then just leave us be here, I guess. We don’t need anyone’s help or charity.” Tommy growled, his arms crossed stubbornly. He could hear Tubbo sharply inhale beside him, weakly nudging at his side.

The two inhabitants, Hermits, Tommy mused, seemingly shared a look for a moment. Tommy’s blue eyes were unyielding from them, as Tubbo’s quiet babble of scolding went through deaf ears.

Slowly nodding, the helmeted admin stepped back. “You two don’t have anywhere you could go?” He’d ask, hesitantly. Tommy glanced beside him, at the short, blinded boy. Blue from Ghostbur weakly stained his hands.

No one else outside of Dream SMP had learned about Wilbur’s fate, not yet. That certainly wasn’t a conversation either of them was willing to have yet, with anyone. Dream would be mad. Dream would be furious if word got out on the nature of his server. 

With that thought, Tommy tore his gaze away from his friend. The boy stared as close as he could to the Admin’s eyes, a challenging look in his hardened blue eyes. “Nowhere.”

Xisuma conceded, nodding. “Fine, then.” He agreed, his tone far softer than it had any right to be, from such an imposing figure. Tommy pondered for a moment if the Admin was taller than him. The possibility made Tommy feel all the more disdain towards him.

Tommy tilted his head, watching expectantly. “Well then? Can we just be- be fuckin’ left here, or some shit? We don’t need to be babysat.” “Tommy, please, don’t pick a fight here-” “Yeah, yeah, Tubbo..”

Xisuma winced, nodding. “Sure.. If you want to be left alone, that’s fine. There’s Elytras’ in the room behind us, and rockets in the chest. That’s the only way to get out, besides from the Nether. It should be linked to our Netherhub, so you shouldn’t have too big of a trouble, yeah?”

Tubbo hesitantly nodded, his grip tight around Tommy’s hand. “Alright, then.” Xisuma nodded, glancing towards Joe. Tommy had all but forgotten the man was there, the Southerner having been quietly observing them.  “Joe, you’re free to go, my friend.”

To Tommy’s perspective, Joe certainly seemed to have some reservations. Whether they were about leaving teenagers unattended or leaving strangers in their server, the blond wasn’t sure. Nonetheless, Joe accepted his fate, nodding breezily before enderpearling his way out of the spawn.

Xisuma turned back to the two, one final time. Tommy didn’t miss the way that Xisuma flinched at Tubbo’s large scars, nearly growling when he saw the admin’s reaction.

“You two have been competing in MCC.” That caught Tubbo, off-guard. The brunnett’s brows furrowed together, tilting his head. “Huh? How do you know that-”

“My Hermits have been competing there for a good while. I need to keep track of them all, I haven’t missed the team announcements.” Xisuma explained breezily, something akin to fondness in his tone. “The other Hermits said that they love MCC, and the other participants. And that they trust almost all of them- don’t take advantage of that, alright?”

Quietly scoffing, Tommy looked away. Beside him, Tubbo nodded. “We’ll try- thank you. For letting us stay here, just for now.”

Despite the situation, Tubbo couldn’t help but feel slightly giddy at the idea of being in a Hermitcraft world. He hadn’t been able to hear about, or see anything about their recent achievements in a long while.

“If you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask. I’ll add you two to the communication connection. Most of the Hermits have a..Tendency of getting themselves in trouble, quite a bit. Don’t be alarmed if someone spawns, they’re almost never here long enough to be dragged in,” He spoke casually, easily. Tommy wondered for a moment what exactly their definition of trouble was.

“Someone will be here to check on you, soon. Don’t get yourselves hurt, please. We’re happy to help here.” He continued, glancing between the two. Tubbo fidgetted, nodding numbly, as he could practically hear Tommy roll his eyes beside him.

Quiet mechanical whirring buzzed as holographic, shimmering bee-like wings expanded behind him.  “Good, then.” Xisuma dipped his head, before familiar red-and-white rockets appeared in his hands.

Before Tommy could lung to cover Tubbo’s ears, Xisuma had already taken off. White particles were left behind him, but the expected boom never came, merely a small pop and smoke. The sight of them, nonetheless, couldn’t help but leave a bitter taste in Tommy’s mouth.

While Tubbo was visibly startled, cringing and nearly tumbling over, he didn’t feel his chest constricting the way it usually would, typically. They’d both consider it a win, for now. Tubbo fell over into Tommy’s arm, as his best friend pulled him into a side hug.

They both slid down against the wall. The conversation alone had taken out all remaining energy they had left in them. Tommy’s gaze surveyed his friend for a moment. “So,” He said pointedly, Tubbo lifting his head to face him.

“What the fuck was that, and what the hell is Hermitcraft?”

[obligatebureaucrat]

SONIC FRONTIERS SPOILERS

https://twitter.com/tracker_td/status/1537798480571383808?s=21&t=0huWAL8yRTd6NRczLnQjhg

More crusty footage of the cyberspace levels at SGF emerged, and it’s undoubtedly Sky Sanctuary, with the general consensus being that it’s using Generations assets but a new level design .

I know some people are really not going to like this and I’m definitely disappointed that we’re seemingly not getting any new locales beyond the open zones, but I actually don’t hate it! Other than Green Hill and Chemical Plant (and Planet Wisp if we’re counting Colors Ultimate), we haven’t seen the Generations themes in a mainline Sonic game in 11 years. Plus, even if this ends up being solely a rehash of Generations content, that’s still Generations plus fun hub worlds and an actual story, which sounds pretty fun to me! But on top of that, there’s some fun speculation to be had…

Are we sure that the level themes will *just* be from Generations? Even if there’s no original level themes, could we potentially get levels from other Sonic games? If they’re willing to reuse assets from a game as old as Generations, then what else could be on the table? Unleashed? Colors Ultimate? Lost World? Forces? Hell, even 06?? I would LOVE to revisit Apotos! I would love to see more 06 themes like White Acropolis get a second chance! I would love to see Forces levels like Sunset City actually fleshed out! And according to leaks, there may be 28 cyberspace levels (4 islands with 7 per island), so unless they massively repeat themes, Generations alone won’t be enough. It won’t be the end of the world if we don’t get these other themes but Can You Imagine??

Then there’s the story possibilities. If Sonic and/or friends have amnesia in Frontiers then running through past areas would be a great way to bring them up to speed (pun absolutely intended). If done well, this could fix one of Generations’ biggest problems, which is that, despite being a celebration of Sonic’s history, none of the characters actually cared about any of the locations. Imagine if Frontiers uses these nostalgic throwbacks to remind the characters of who they are by reflecting on the adventures that shaped them as people. Given Flynn’s track record, that’s absolutely the angle I think they’ll take, if he has enough control.

Heck, they could use these stages to fill in the gaps of lackluster adventures like Forces and bring in elements outside of the games. Like imagine playing through Sunset City while trying to rescue Amy, and doing so helps her remember how she stepped up as a leader for the Resistance, basically resulting in her getting her IDW personality.

At the end of the day, even if these dreams don’t come to fruition, I think Frontiers will be a fun time, but if the throwback cyberspace stages are handled like I hope they are, then this could be something truly incredible. And if you read all this and still think seeing Sky Sanctuary is dumb and kinda kills your interest then… fair enough. Sonic is a lot of things to a lot of people, and sometimes no amount of potential can overcome a game just wildly missing someone’s mark.

[thetorchwoodarchive]

Thank you everyone so much!!!

Because of you, we are up to over 300 followers!!! In celebration, we asked the mods to name three of their all time favorite Torchwood fics or fic series! Please enjoy the the list they came up with!

Please note to mind any additional warnings on each individual fic and read additional tags when available.

Mod Daniela

Torchwood Series Three: What could have been by SqutternutBosh (JackIanto, GwenRhys, OwenTosh | WIP, Series | 103,305 | T)

The first episode of yet another alternate season 3! Follows on from Exit Wounds but imagines Tosh and Owen narrowly escaped their fates. Torchwood are picking up the pieces and dealing with the consequences of Gray's attack on the city when a series of time slips start to appear across Cardiff...

Push and Pull by Sherlockpond (JackIanto, GwenRhys | complete | 34066 | M)

It’s been nearly a year since Ianto Jones died at Thames House. And nearly six months since Captain Jack Harkness left Gwen Cooper sobbing on a hillside on the outskirts of Cardiff. For Jack, the days are blurring into one, alcohol all tastes the same, and there’s not much point to anything. Until Jack’s reluctantly dragged back to Earth.

Homeless people are being taken off the streets, but no one really seems to care. Not until a man appears, a man who should be dead and buried.

Who’s behind the disappearances? Why are they happening to begin with? And how can a man who’s been dead for nearly a year be standing next to a gravestone marked with his name? A name he doesn’t remember.

[Set between Children of Earth and Miracle Day]

Mutual Service by phaetonschariot (JackIanto | Series | 55,115 | T)

When some misplaced technology triggers a custom-coded lockdown, Torchwood quickly realises the quickest way to open up the Hub again is to get the program's creator to shut it off. The only problem is that Ianto Jones is dead.

Mod Nik

To The Sticking Place by zephyras13 (JackIanto, GwenRhys, OwenTosh, MarthaMickey | complete | 96433 | M)

Failure is not an option. There is always a choice, except when there isn't. These are the phrases Ianto Jones lives by and he refuses to allow anyone, even Captain Jack Harkness, to change that. Jack/Ianto, AU, Torchwood One Agent!Ianto.

The Stars Might Stick Where You by methylethyl (JackIanto | 20394 | complete | E)

Following the fall of Torchwood One, Jack Harkness went to ask Torchwood Three for a job. He didn’t expect to fall a little bit in love with its director, the practical and ever-calm Ianto Jones. He also probably didn’t expect that Ianto Jones would end up holding the answers to his most precious secret.

Waking Gods by toldthestars (JackIanto | complete | 7692 | Not Rated)

Why are Ianto's dreams coming true? What's in the box with the symbol on it? Oh, and while we're at it, what's the meaning of the life?

Mod Alyssa

Exhibit by Mirrankei (ToshOwen, JackIanto | complete | 38k | T)

Owen, Tosh, and Ianto find themselves kidnapped to the future. Stuck in space 2000 years in the future, they become part of an Earth exhibit in the station museum. But the portal that brought them is broken, and a visiting Time Lord smells a trap...

The Magic of Torchwood by Bella the Strange (JackIanto, IantoJohn, JackOther(s) | WIP | 546k | T)

The Torchwood team have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Set between Adam and Reset. Rated T because of Jack Harkness, swearing, mature themes, slash etc... it's Torchwood!

Straysverse by NancyBrown (Ianto & Steven, JackIanto, Other | Series | 93,539 | Various Ratings)

Amy recreated the universe and brought back the dead, but the dead don't fit there anymore.

Mod Captain Reader

Remarkable by Snowwhiteliar (IantoLisa, JackIanto | complete | 20975 | R)

Once upon a time, in a small village in a distant province of a peaceful kingdom, there lived a boy called Ianto...

Hitting the Ground Running by BregoArodShadowfax (JackIanto | complete | 155,880 | M)

AU. Majorly AU. Ianto Jones first encountered Torchwood as a teenager trying to leave his old life behind. However, when Torchwood Three gets rather violently restructured at the start of the millennium, he's got a new assignment in Cardiff. The only thing he wasn't prepared for was his new boss.

Even Angels Will Fall by choccy_grl (JackIanto, MarthaTom | complete | 31500 | R)

Jack is determined that nothing will entice him back to a time and a place which holds nothing for him but bad memories. But either John is stoned or angels really are falling from the Heavens... can he possibly resist finding out which?

Martha knows that she promised Tom that long term maternity leave from UNIT would be just that. And honestly, she was only keeping an eye on the situation. She hadn't intended to get involved... until someone knocked on her door in the dead of the night.

Ianto couldn't remember anything. And then he was falling. Waking up aching and only partial clothed on cold ground was familiar enough not to worry him - just another mission gone wrong - but...wasn't he already dead?

Mod Daphne

Expected Conversations by Flamingbluepanda (JackIanto | complete | 3039 | G)

Five times someone needlessly defended Ianto's honor and one time Ianto defends Jack's

Right Behind You by Engagemythrusters (JackIanto, GwenRhys | series, complete | 93,558 | T)

First comes love, then comes death, then comes... Ioan...

The Rose of Jericho by kaydeefalls (JackIanto, GwenRhys | complete | 62606 | M)

Post-CoE. When Martha Jones encounters a dark UNIT cover-up in the wake of the 456, it's up to Gwen's new Torchwood team to bring the truth to light -- and save Ianto.

Mod Ruairidh:

Just This Once (everybody lives) by Beleriandings (JackIanto, OwenTosh, GwenRhys, Other | Series | 287,870 | Multiple Ratings)

(Everybody lives.)

(Or: when a certain Doctor arrives to save Owen Harper from a stricken nuclear power station, it begins a chain of events that will lead Torchwood Three down a very different path. From time locks and telepathy to tea and coffee, high-speed chases to unresolved sibling issues, their new lives (and new and old loves) may be different, but their bonds of friendship and family grow stronger every day.

But when every child on earth starts speaking with one voice, the team are torn apart again as they’re forced to fight for their lives, and to confront monsters they’d thought they’d left behind in the past.

But with all of them working together – along with some allies they’ve made along the way – Torchwood Three will stop at nothing to save their friends and set the world to rights. The consequences will ripple out across the universe and into the distant future.

But they have to start somewhere, and the present is as good a place as any.)

Here is the Deepest Secret Nobody Knows by blackkat (JackIanto | complete | 9658 | E)

Ianto closes his eyes in Thames House, lungs full of choking alien gas, and opens them in his sister's house in Cardiff.

For Captain and Cardiff by blackhemlock (JackIanto, JackTen | complete | 42663 | G)

"At midnight, a nationwide security alert was sent out... Torchwood London, demands all agencies' cooperation in issuing an arrest warrant for Ianto Merric Jones, 24, of Cardiff."

Torchwood Three's Archivist has gone rogue. But, he does have a very good reason, and he looks stunning in his new suit.

Mod Violet

Club Wales by Pocky_slash (Gwen&Ianto, JackIanto, GwenRhys | series | 69530 | Multiple Ratings)

In the wake of Jack's disappearance, Gwen finds comfort in a new friendship with Ianto. Gossip, bonding, and other hijinks of understanding ensue.

Any Other Day by Amand_r (JackIanto, JackGwen, GwenRhys |complete | 84055 | Not Rated)

Hey, this one time? At Torchwood? Gwen and Jack switched bodies and everything went pear-shaped.

Personnel Issues by PinkFairy727 (JackIanto, GwenRhys | complete | 41434 | T)

The Torchwood Three email newsletter: an excuse to gossip, bitch, plan dates, fight, and discuss squirrel rats. Co-authored with sparking_off.

Warnings: canon character death and swearing.

Mod Alicia

like hope, love abides by princessoftheworlds (JackIanto, GwenRhys, OwenTosh | complete | 3333 | G)

Actually," Jack says, eyes sparkling, and she hopes that an innuendo or invitation for a threesome won't follow, "I was wondering if you would want to marry us."

Excitement explodes across the Doctor's mind like bubbles from the champagne that Gwen disappeared to fetch. "Of course!" She claps her hands together. "I'm ordained on twenty-seven different planets and in six different galaxies. When-"

"Now," Jack says hurriedly.

"Hold on," interjects Ianto. "Who's getting married to who? You haven't even bloody asked me yet."

Recover by engagemythrusters (JackIanto | complete | 15097 | T)

"Jack never let anyone help him when he was sick, but he doesn’t die, and that’s the point. Ianto, mortal Ianto, is sick. And no way in hell is Jack losing him now."

Or, Jack and Ianto escape the Thames House. Just barely.

Speakeasy by thepsychicclam (JackIanto | Series | 191,517 | E, M)

Torchwood AU set in a 1920s speakeasy. Jack and Owen own the Hub, an illegal speakeasy in New York. Jack is a bootlegger, Owen a bartender, Tosh a jazz singer, Rhys a bouncer, and Gwen a flapper. Ianto is the new guy who tends bar, occasionally sings, and falls in love with Jack.

Additional Fave: We love Sholio but weren’t able to narrow it down to just one of their fics. Go check them out!

[sunlightinourheadlights]

HANANENE HUB SECRET SANTA FICS MASTERLIST

Happy holidays everyone! This year we did an art/fanfiction secret santa swap on the Hananene Hub, and here is the masterlist of the christmas/winter themed fanfics! They are in alphabetical order according to fic title. Thank you to the amazing writers on this list and for everyone who contributed in the event. 

[WARNING: it may be the holidays, but do check the ratings and read the tags for each fic carefully. Not all the fics are fluff. This is still JSHK after all.]

Hope you all enjoy!

Give Me Your Stars to Hold by sincerelyand (me!) for Rapid (@rapidfur) -  If Nene knew one thing, it was how difficult it was being childhood friends with the Yugi Twins.

Honey, Don't Feed Me, I Will Come Back by thebonezone  (@fangirlingforeverz) for sincerelyand (me) - Nene wants to marry a prince more than anything.And what price will she pay for that wish? (Bluebeard AU, Aged Up Characters) 

Imperfect by thatsrightdollface (@thatsrightdollface) for hopesartcastle ( @thehopeelias)- When she was young, Aoi Akane had liked the funny-shaped, imperfect sugar cookies best of all.

if anything happens i love you by zileywrites (@muffindounat​​)  for teafloof (@teafloof) - Amane was a young precious boy with stardust running through his veins and galaxies swirling in his soul, who had been trying in vain to protect himself from the harsh realities of life. [or, three times Yugi Aname felt utterly alone in december after the passing of Tsukasa, and one time he didn’t.]

Lemon and Peach (and you and me under the mistletoe) by Baronesscmd (SweeterThanYourDarkestSin) (@baronesscmd) for HanaNoHanabira -  Tsukasa has a plan. It may involve threatening his brother's little assistant and making Natsuhiko's life a living nightmare, but if Sakura is happy in the end it will all be worth it.

No Place Like (Someone Else's) Home for the Holidays by Hammsters (@uglierdaikon) for Sharkbytez - Yashiro Nene is down on her luck; dumped and alone in a new city where she knows no one, she's preparing to spend her holidays alone for the first time. That is, until the flirtatious bartender at the restaurant where she works makes her an offer she might regret accepting- an invitation to spend Christmas with his family instead.

Once Upon A December (Things I Almost Remember) by banjjakz (@banjjakz) for piyo_nii (@piyo-nii) -  Aoi went missing last Christmas, and the chilling bite of the new year rendered her case cold to the touch. This year, on December first, Nene opens an anonymous Christmas card to find a lock of deep purple hair. Terrified, jaded, and freshly incensed, she teams up with the boy next door to track down her best friend before it's too late.

partly cloudy, chance of snow by sourlemoncandy (@sour-lemon-candy) for Naomi -  Amane is right in at least one respect- his apartment is close to her job, vacant, and perhaps most importantly, he makes the best chocolate chip cookies she's ever tasted. 

Pining Amongst the Pines by corologs  (@corologs​) for Cheyenne / Anu (@anubis-005) -  Just as Prince Hanako had found his favorite little gardener, news of an accident brings about an opportunity for Nene Yashiro to prove her usefulness.

snowfall and frostbite by lilaflo (@istoleyourboat) for sourlemoncandy ( @sour-lemon-candy) - After blossoming into a stunning, young college student, Yashiro Nene decides to push all her past regrets and mistakes behind her.That is... until her graduating class decides to throw a high school reunion on Christmas Eve. After finding out that her ex will be there, Nene seeks out a fake boyfriend to spare herself the humiliation.And who better than her best friend, Yugi Amane.

Time, Space, and the Worlds in Between by milkteamoon (@spades-queen) for Indigo_Floof (@indigosienna) -  Amane Yugi is an astronaut stationed on a planet far away when he catches a glimpse of something he's not meant to see.

the golden age of something good by piyo_nii (@piyo-nii) for Hammsters (@uglierdaikon) - Under the silver-streaked heavens, you pray to whoever is listening. You vow to become someone she can come to rely on. Someone who can protect her, someone she can learn to love.(That night, you dream of Yashiro’s shy smile and the clicking sound of a turning lock, and that can only be an omen.)

The Greatest Gifts Come in the Most Unorthodox Places by insipidenvy (@insipidenvy) for paopu_moo (@macey-wacey) - Hanako and Tsukasa spend Christmas catching up on lost time and opportunities. The past and present couldn't be any more different.

Threads of Nettle, Threads of Gold by Indigo_Floof (@indigosienna) for thebonezone (@fangirlingforeverz) -  Nene's siblings have been cursed to turn into swans, and as for the solution...she literally can't say anything about it.

When you get together with your friend to bake, it's usually a good idea to get the recipes beforehand by Chykori  for Miko (Mito Mitochondria) -  Amane and Nene cooking together at Amane’s house! With no adult or Kou supervision. Lots of fluff, no angst allowed here in this household. At one point they do pull up Kou on the videochat because he is on a vacation trip with his family and couldn’t make it to their baking day.

Please make sure to leave the incredible authors kudos and comments! Everyone worked very hard! ❤️

[jazzmandd]

Kingdom hearts 4 Predictions.

Having recently beaten Kingdom hearts 3 after a very long lull since buying the game day 1, I’ve been thinking and thunking about what worlds are going to show up in Kingdom hearts 4.

I am an old man driven by madness that is of the anime boy and Ducks and Dogs who fight shadow blobs in the Princess worlds. This is all based on speculation, where the series currently sits and where I personally feel they’re gonna go. I can be entirely wrong or entirely right on these guesses, but if it’s a 100% success rate: Pikmin 4 is real, Banjo-Kazooie remake is happening and Crash Bandicoot Nitro fueled racing will be on PC.

Here’s what I think is gonna happen.

Star Wars

I think this one is gonna be the most obvious selection, if the Kingdom hearts 4 trailer is to go by with the shots of supposedly ‘Endor’ and the robot mech foot.

I’m not too sure if the world would be a play by play of Episode 6 or not, but it’s likely to involve a fight with Darth Vader at some point.

Moana

Moana seems like a natural fit for a Kingdom hearts world, easily workable allies with Moana and Maui, unique locales, natural fit for bosses such as the giant crab or the volcano god at the end and could probably fill the niche of pirate’y world that seems to crop up in all the mainline games (as much as I like Treasure planet, I think Normua would want to go for a world thats easier to adapt with already existing CG for).

Alice in Wonderland

Here’s a weird one, but hear me out!

Sora in KH4 is going to begin in Quadratum a world based off a video game called Verum Rex, which was in the Toy Story world in 3, its a location rested in un-reality it’s basically Sora’s ‘after life’ after the events in KH3 and yes this sounds really stupid.

The point is this world is going to be acting as a hub for Sora according to Normua and considering the whole ‘un-reality’ of it all, I think this is going to be backdoor entrance to making worlds based off live action properties, especially for anything previously visited in the games before.

Alice in Wonderland I think is the most natural fit to showcase the difference between the Cartoon Disney Wonderland and the Live action attempt, especially since the world itself in Kingdom hearts 1 was kind of....Empty? The live action movie probably has more to work with, a possible jabberwocky boss, Mad hatter being a team mate, and I think it would be fun to have a scene with Sora utterly confused at someone who looks like Jack Sparrow but isn’t in a world thats supposed to be Alice in Wonderland but very different.

Frozen 2

As much as I utterly hated this world in KH3, I think there’s going to be at least one returning world from it and it’s going to be this. Nomura loved Frozen, It’s likely going to be “the movie plot” ism just like the first one but at least we won’t be climbing up and down a mountain this time. Right?

Inside Out

I can’t see Kingdom hearts 4 not having any Pixar content going forward with the series, whether it’s a returning world like Toy Story, or something new, I think Inside Out is the most interesting idea the series would use.

“But Jazz, how can Inside out be a world when its inside a persons head” Don’t ask me, these games has several different worlds based off London and France.

I think the most likely thing is it takes place inside Sora’s head, you could have the different emotions talk about Sora’s past, and that you don’t need to be a happy go-lucky hero all the time, Dream eaters could be involved again, and you could possibly have locations based off places Sora’s been before all mish mashed together. 

Considering how many times Sora and Co have been in those ‘Dive to the heart’ Stained glass areas usually at the start of the games, how could you not finally explore what the hell those are?

Coco

Another very popular Pixar movie, and also dealing with the same themes Sora is going through right now. Sora and Miguel are both characters that wind up in some sort of After life world, and both likely want to return to the world of the living, this could be yet another world to bring back the Dream eaters since the spirit animals everyone has are a great analogue. 

My only contention with this being a world is the plot. Both Pixar worlds in KH3 were basically original stories, I’m not sure if Coco would really do the ‘the movie plot’ ism like a lot of Disney worlds do, This is probably my least confident pick to see show up in KH4, especially when there's some like Incredibles or Soul that deserve it more. 

Maleficent

Finally to cap it all off (I’m assuming Kingdom hearts 4 will keep the 7 world structure) The Angelina Jolie Maleficent.

What better way to also showcase the un-reality worlds then Sora teaming up a different version of a character who is currently a villain? What happens if you have the Cartoon Maleficent and the live action one show up face to face? You also get another chance to expand a previous world (From Birth by sleep) to include more locales, the castle, the forest, the fairy tale knoll maybe even deal with the weird Maleficents bird species place from the sequel.

Conclusion

I very much doubt these will be all the worlds in KH4, there could be less or more worlds then these 7, the minigame world (Pooh bear?) could return or be different, and frankly if it were up to be Atlantis and Treasure planet would be there.

But considering how Sora is going to be in this weird new not tokyo location and Donald and Goofy are presumably visiting worlds with after lifes (Hercules and possibly Pirates?) I wouldn’t be surprised by some of the thematic connections some of these have.

Thanks for listing to my TED talk.

[yasbxxgie]

The Artist’s Way: Writer-director Radha Blank ruminates on creative frustration and rejuvenation in her debut feature, The Forty-Year-Old Version

Fair warning: This interview with Radha Blank isn’t business — it’s personal. Right now, like at this very moment, Radha is being introduced to the world as the writer, director, and star of the remarkable new Netflix film The Forty-Year-Old Version. But I remember Radha in the 1990s, smashing open mics at Brooklyn Moon in N.Y.C., rocking a fitted N.Y. Yankees cap and big hoop earrings. I remember her jumping into cyphers and catching wreck (read: she can dance her ass off) at Club Kilimanjaro. I remember sitting in the audience of her play Seed in 2011 and thinking, Damn, homegirl can write. I remember witnessing the rise of her emcee alter ego and one-woman show RadhaMUSprime at Joe’s Pub in 2014 and thinking, Damn, Radha can rhyme. AND she funny AF. Because Radha was (and is) a part of a close-knit artists’ community, I also recall her hustle, the keeping-the-lights-on-while-trying-to-make-your-dreams-come-true shuffle we know so well. Radha worked as a teacher, she wrote for children’s television and for shows such as Empire and She’s Gotta Have It.

So when The Forty-Year-Old Version won the U.S. Dramatic Directing Award at Sundance earlier this year, the community rejoiced! This wasn’t just a win for Radha, it was a win for the people. Here was a film rooted in Radha’s own story, about a woman at 40; a Black artist trying to get her stories told — as a playwright and as a rapper; a daughter grieving the death of her mother. Radha told her story her way, down to shooting the streets of New York on 35mm film in black and white. The result is a whole, liberating mood. There’s even a nod to Prince’s Purple Rain.

Karen Good Marable: First of all, Radha, congratulations! The Forty-Year-Old Version is amazing. Your success feels so much like a win for Brooklyn. A win for us all. Thank you for writing it. Radha Blank: I really did make it for us — us being Black women, Black women of a certain age, Black women artists of a certain age. I didn’t think I’d be starting a whole new career in my 40s, but I think it speaks to what’s possible if you let go of other people’s ideas of where you should be in your life. If I listened to other people and gave credence to their ideas, I would not be here.

Amen. When you were younger, did you have the boxes to check, i.e., “I need to get this done by 30, I need to get this done by 40”? Were you that girl? RB:

I think I was that girl. And I always say this about aging: It’s never really about the person; it’s about other people’s perceptions that you then take on. I thought by 40, I would be married with a couple of kids, all of my work being published, theaters asking, “Can we do a revival of this play now?” I really thought once I decided to be a playwright, which was probably my mid-20s, I thought, Oh, by 40, I’m going to be set up. I will have a house. And I do have a house, but that came from Cookie and Lucious Lyon. They got me a house.

Come through, Empire. RB:

I feel like we’ve all been conditioned to think that 40 is: You’re an adult, you’re accomplished, you’re established. What me and my character share is there’s still all of these “who am I” moments, questions around identity. Especially when my mother died, I really had to figure out who I was, because so much of my life as a woman, as a person, as a Black American, as an artist, was tied to this woman. When she died, I really had no sense of myself. So I feel like my personal experience propelled me toward telling the story. We just don’t see women of that age saying, What do I do next? Am I happy? Is this enough?

Your mother — curator, visual artist, cinephile, and arts teacher Carol Blank — figures prominently in the film. She is a goddess and a guide, but she also represents a complicated lesson in what it means to be an artist. RB: Oh, listen, I feel like everything I’ve learned, I’ve learned from my mother — from my frustration as an artist to being a teaching artist for so long. That’s where I learned how to be a director, honestly. I didn’t go to film school. I did stand-up comedy and all this performance stuff, and my first example was my mother. She knew how to turn a phrase or a joke to get the kids interested, and if they weren’t, she wasn’t going to push it. I learned from her first, and I tried to match her energy.

I don’t know what my mother went through when she turned 40, as an artist. I know she was a mom of two by that time, but I gathered — especially because she was a teaching artist for so many years — that she was hustling, jumping between these different roles, trying to make sense of something for herself. In that way, I feel like the movie and my journey as an artist brought me closer to her. I was like, Oh, this is what you had to go through. And then you had two kids on top of that?

In the film, your character is also a teacher. As much as she tries to model support and positivity, sometimes the frustration seeps through. One line stayed with me: “Don’t think that because you created something, people will appreciate it.” RB:

Yeah, I have been bitter. I was able to transform that into a film; it gave me a story to tell. But I did feel that theater as an institution didn’t pay off, there wasn’t much of a dividend. I had done a play in 2011 called Seed, and everyone was like, “Girl, this is your breakout! This is your moment! This play is going on Broadway!” None of that shit happened. Theater was not responding in the same way. I was quietly devastated by it, and I think the movie is my exploration of the why. How come things didn’t happen for me? Here’s someone who has been trying for 20-something years and my biggest accomplishment was 10 years ago when I was 30. That’s why I invented the 30 Under 30 award for my character: The idea that accomplishments are amplified by one’s proximity to youth. There’s no 50 Under 50 award. Or 60 Under 60. Being young and doing something as an artist seems more of a cause for celebration. You know what I mean?

There’s also this theme of displacement that runs through the film. In addition to your protagonist feeling out of place in the classroom and in the theater community, she’s also setting a play, Harlem Ave, that deals with gentrification. RB:

So, my parents were gentrifiers in their own way in the late 60s and 70s, when they moved to the south side of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. They didn’t displace people, because what they and their artist and jazz musician comrades would do is take over dilapidated spaces that were considered unlivable — broken-down lofts and factories and storefronts — and create community. There was an investment in engaging the community that came before you, whereas now I think gentrification really is just about an opportunity for the person moving in — “Oh, look at this dope, cheap brownstone that I can get” — with no regard for what came before.

Right. RB: The same thing happens with these artistic institutions: They find a dilapidated space, they revive it and put a million dollars into it. Then when it comes to programming, the people on the stage don’t look like the people outside of the gate. They’re thinking of their silver-haired patrons, because those people can afford a $100 ticket, and that is who I feel most of the theaters cater to. So when diversity shows up on the stage, it’s a version of diversity that protects the audience from feeling bad about racism or sexism. They can still remain in a comfortable place, so they can come back next week or next month and see something for the $300 membership.

But then you brilliantly juxtapose said institutions with the battle rap in the Bronx. RB: I wanted to show these different hubs of art in New York. This film is about capturing an authentic New York experience, and so we shot that battle rap scene at a warehouse space at the tip-top of the Bronx. Art and culture are happening in these spaces that we’re not always focusing the camera on and that don’t have the multimillion-dollar renovation fund of a downtown theater. But this is theater. This is art.

Is that battle based on an actual show? RB:

Yes. Well, we recreated that. Babs Bunny, who people may recognize from Making the Band, created this brand called Queen of the Ring. If you go on YouTube, you’ll see their battle raps. I would watch them because I just needed to see women slaying shit and not being proper or polite. I just wanted to put it into a cinematic world.

Your pen is equally hard-hitting, Radha. Rhymes like “Poverty Porn” and “This Some Bullshit” do so much in revealing character, advancing the narrative. RB:

Thank you. I mean, I feel like if we’re stopping to listen to a song, it should still be about advancing the narrative. We’re still moving forward, riding on this person’s frustration, but into the next scene, next act, or what have you. I think it comes from being a playwright, making sure that everything is earned and not just thrown in there for novelty or because it’s colorful and interesting. I feel like RadhaMUSprime is probably an explosion of her consciousness, the things that she’d been suppressing.But yeah, I’m an emcee. I rhyme. The beautiful thing about the film is I didn’t have to become a professional rapper. I don’t feel like the movie is 8 Mile. I say the movie is 2 Mile,

because she’s not trying to go that far. She’s not trying to be a hip-hop star. For her, hip-hop is a meditation and it shows up in many ways, from the trap beat floating outside her window, to her freestyling in the mirror, or with the dudes in the basement cypher at Arlene’s Grocery.

In some ways, the moral and artistic struggles of The Forty-Year-Old Version remind me of Hollywood Shuffle, Robert Townsend’s 1987 classic. RB:

I appreciate that you bring up Hollywood Shuffle, because I know that because I’m Black and I’m shooting in black and white, people always make the comparison to She’s Gotta Have It. But I feel like my film calls back to Hollywood Shuffle, about a Black artist confronting the white gatekeepers on who gets to tell a Black story and how.

Exactly. And like Townsend, you wrote, directed, and starred in your own first feature film. How was that experience, and do you think you would do it again? RB:

I wouldn’t say I regret being in my film, but I think that there’s probably more of a fascination with my film because I’m in it. And I have too much respect for actors to call myself one. I don’t come from training. I don’t sit in these auditions day after day. I don’t have to endure seven callbacks for a role. I just think that when an audience is familiar with a face, it might make it easier for them to go down the line with this person. So while I don’t plan on being in another one of my films, I do plan on mining my family legacy for storytelling, and on telling stories where music is a driving force.I really want to be an auteur. I’m hoping that my stories get quieter. Very quiet, but very potent. A slow burn, but such a beautiful payoff. I want to make work like that.

Amen.

Photographs:

Radha Blank on set, t & m

Radha Blank with her fellow cast members

[yvynyl]

// Interview //

White Bike "I Like You"

As a long-time fan of Oregon's Tango Alpha Tango, I was pretty stoked to speak with Nathan Trueb and Mirabai Carter-Trueb about the new project they've built with some friends over the course of the time since the pandemic. It's bigger and, dare I say, louder than their name-sake songs. They've added more people into the mix such as singer Arianna Anchustegui, Justin Chase from Pure Bathing Culture, and Robin Levy from Yardsss to create something a bit louder but not entirely different than the sweet movements of their original work. While you listen to the newest single coming out tomorrow, Friday, May 14th, have a read of a short interview I had with them the other day.

Mark Schoneveld:

😎 Hi, guys. Mark from @yvynyl 🎧 here. How’s Portland today?

Mirabai Carter-Trueb:

Hi Mark!

Nathan Trueb:

Hey, Mark! Portland is good, finally starting to get some great weather around here.

Mark:

I love Portland in the summer. I’ve spent time there in the summer (awesome) and winter (awesome in a different, wetter way).

Arianna Anchustegui:

Hey Mark! Yeah, Portland is great & bloomed, and beautiful.

Nathan:

The winters are long-feeling, so spring is always a relief

Mark:

At least the winter gives you time to stay inside writing new music, right?

Mirabai:

Yeah, Portlanders love to hibernate and get creative.

Nathan:

That’s why we all have basements here haha

Mark:

Was it a pandemic winter that brought you back to hard rock rips like this new project?

Nathan:

Honestly, the songs came before 2020, and the shutdowns gave us the time to focus on the finishing touches and hunker down and practice together.

Mark:

How did White Bike evolve out of Tango Alpha Tango? Or was it something that was written differently, with different goals in mind?

Mirabai:

We kept the band as our primary quarantine group so we could continue practicing and working on our music. Priorities!!

Mark:

Priorities are important, for sure. Mirabai, what has been the element that you’ve enjoyed the most?

Mirabai:

White Bike started on a summer night around a campfire. We were having a great conversation about who our favorite bands are and how much we all love rock and roll and I just blurted out “we should start a band!” And everyone instantly said yes

Mark:

That makes sense. There’s something magical about campfires, aren’t there? How has this been different than Tango Alpha Tango?

Nathan:

Yeah! The three of us would sing songs together and we really enjoyed Arianna’s voice, and our voices together. So once we decided to actually start a band I started writing songs with the female voices at the forefront of my ideas, which was a lot different than TAT stuff.

Mark:

Arianna, were you in bands before? Or is this something new for you?

Arianna:

I’d performed with a band and friends a few times a couple years prior but before White Bike I haven’t been in anything serious.

I’ve always dreamed of fronting a rock & roll band. I’ve been a songbird my entire life!

Mark:

That’s great. Diving into new opportunities head-first. I dig it. And you’re new to the Portland scene, right?

Mirabai:

I’ve really enjoyed working with a female lead singer and focusing more on vocal harmonies. It’s a new thing for us in this band that we didn’t really do much of in Tango Alpha Tango.

Arianna:

Fairly! I moved here almost four years ago after graduating college in Idaho to work in the music industry. I accepted a job with a local promoter /production company called True West

Mark:

Nice. What neighborhood would you guys call yourselves from now? What are your hot spots in town there?

Looking forward to live music post-pandemic?

Mirabai:

Our main hub is in North Portland (which we lovingly call NoPo here) that’s where Nathan and I live and where we practice in our basement at least once a week. We also hang out in SE at Ari’s bar she works at called Thunderbird. One of our favorite venues through Mississippi Studios is just a few blocks from our house so we used to go there and see shows all the time!

Tango Alpha Tango has also had the pleasure of playing there too and Arianna used to work there pre-pandemic

Arianna:

I worked around various venues in Portland before Covid craziness so I was at a show every night, very much in the music scene...but always wanted to be ON stage

Mark:

As a music writer/critic I can empathize, Adrianna. 😊

Any travel plans when live shows can be a bit more ‘safe’ and doctor-approved?

Arianna:

Absolutely cannot wait for live music to come back! So far we just have plans to play Treefort Music Festival in my hometown of Boise, Idaho in September. We’re really looking forward to it.

Mark:

Have you guys played any East Coast spots yet? TAT or otherwise?

Nathan:

We’ve toured a lot over the years and have never made it further than Texas, save a one-off show here and there.

We would love to though! We actually took a WB band trip to Nashville recently to see the sites

Mark:

I have a burning question. Did you guys know about the ‘white bikes’ project? We see them here in Philly a lot.

Nathan:

Yes, if you mean the memorials put up for fallen cyclists. Being from Portland we see them a lot around town and the name pays homage to that.

Mark:

I’m a big biker myself, so what I saw you named your new band White Bike, I wondered if you had that in mind?

Your songs don’t come off as dark or death-related...

Nathan:

Yeah, it’s evocative, and some have even said macabre, but I think it instantly makes you think of deeper things: life and death, dark and light, things that are underlying themes in all music.

Mark:

Absolutely.

Nathan:

As for our first single, "I Like You", it’s definitely on the lighter side of the spectrum, but the rest of our songs and future EPs dive into some of those deeper topics

Mark:

Right. “I Like You” doesn’t come off as a death song. Is that just one to dance with?

Nathan:

That was written, in a way, from our first hangs with friends around the fire and just about the dread of getting older, being young, etc.

Mark:

Sitting around the fire. We’ve been doing that a lot here lately. 6 feet apart.

Thanks for taking the time to chat, guys. I’m looking forward to hearing more from the project! And god bless us all for live music!

Arianna:

Thanks, Mark!

Nathan:

Thank you for taking the time, Mark!

Mirabai:

Thanks, Mark! Great talking with you!

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