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[brighteyesredfire]

PARADOX LIVE: THE ANIMATION (2023) - The Cat's Whiskers

"It's not a shackle, but there's something that binds us. We're brought together through music."

[sgt-tombstone]

The End of the World

Teen || Ghost x Soap || 1.5k

Read it on AO3

--------

cw: nuclear warfare, angst, major character death

The 141 had failed.

Really, the whole world had failed, but it was hard not to shoulder the blame as a personal burden. Mutually Assured Destruction, Price had called it, and Soap hadn't realized just how apt the name was until he'd seen it for himself.

World War 3, some called it, but most called it how they saw it: the end of the world.

There wasn't a country on earth left unaffected. Bomb shelters hadn't saved even the billionaires, and everyone below them hadn't stood a chance. Ground troops weren't needed for nuclear war, so the 141 had been disbanded pretty quickly after launch codes started being thrown around. Price and Laswell had done what they could, had started to take matters into their own hands, but there were only so many assassinations they could pull off in the short time they had before the aforementioned end of the fucking world, and once bombs had started flying, killing the top dogs was rendered next to useless.

So Price had cut them loose, told them to go spend their last moments with family instead of dying in some military barrack. It had been a gut wrenching moment. Soap had hugged Price and Gaz in turn and hadn't ever wanted to let go of either of them. But he had to; Price and Nik were fucking off to wherever they planned to spend the rest of their days, and Gaz had enough living relatives that he actually liked to make going home worth it.

That left Soap and Ghost.

Which was fine by them, really. It had always been the two of them; sergeant and lieutenant, Soap and Ghost, Johnny and Simon. It seemed fitting that it would be the two of them at the end of it all, too.

They were sitting on a grassy hill somewhere in Scotland, partially because it was where Johnny’s car had run out of gas and partially because it afforded them a truly excellent view of the entirety of England burning on the horizon. Johnny sat in between Simon’s legs, his back pressed to Simon’s chest, and his arms resting atop Simon’s where they were wrapped around his torso. He could feel each of Simon’s slow, measured breaths against his back and cheek, their faces next to each other as they both stared into the distance.

It was oddly quiet, the calm before the storm, peaceful despite the impending danger. Birds sang in the trees above them even as Johnny felt heat from the blast on his face. They didn’t have long before the bombs got close enough to catch them in the radius of nuclear fallout; an hour, maybe, probably less.

“I didn’t want it to end like this,” Simon murmured, soft against the shell of Johnny’s ear.

“We did everything we could, love,” Johnny replied, turning sideways in Simon’s hold to be able to press a kiss to the bare skin of his cheek. He wasn’t sure if he was trying to convince SImon or himself, but it was fairly moot either way. In an hour, it wouldn’t matter if they’d done their best or not; they’d still be dead. Simon hummed in response, as unconvinced as Johnny was. Johnny twisted back to his original position, secure in SImon’s arms, eyes on the horizon.

It was beautiful, in a way. The pyromaniac in him could appreciate the bright flashes of reds and yellows and the Scotsman in him could appreciate the sight of England burning. But he knew better than to let his personal prejudice, joking or not, cloud his empathy towards millions of lives going up, quite literally, in flames. The sheer world wide devastation was sobering. Haunting. Terrifying.

“Simon,” he said softly, after a long moment of silence. “I’m scared.”

“I know,” Simon said, just as softly. “I am, too.”

The admission was a far cry from where they’d started, all those years ago. The Simon that Johnny had first met, shrouded in bone and eyeblack, would never had admitted so easily to fear. The Johnny that Simon had first met probably wouldn’t have, either. But they’d spent almost a decade tearing down and rebuilding their walls, firmly ensconcing each other within the protective boundaries of their hearts. There was nothing that they couldn’t reveal to each other now.

“I would’ve married you, Johnny,” Simon whispered. “If they’d have let me.”

“Yeah?” Johnny asked, his heart and breath jumping in his throat. Marriage, for them, had always been an impossibility and they’d both known it. Even without laws restricting gay men in service, their relationship was a clear breach of fraternization rules. Price had turned a blind eye to it, but making it official in the eyes of the government was a far-fetched dream.

“In a heartbeat,” Simon hummed in confirmation. “Small ceremony, just the 141 and whichever friends weren’t getting shot at for long enough to come. Always imagined you walkin’ down the aisle in a kilt, Price givin’ you away. But if you wanted it the other way around, I’d’ve walked down the aisle for you. ‘S long as it ended with us both at the altar.”

“Simon,” Johnny breathed, turning to stare at his profile, silhouetted by brilliant, glowing red.

“Would’ve had fireworks for our send off,” Simon continued, tilting his head to meet Johnny’s gaze with a small, sad smile. “Know how much you love ‘em.” He looked back to the horizon, to his home country burning to the ground. “I guess this is as close as we’ll ever get to that.”

And then Johnny was crying. Silent tears at first, burning the edges of his eyes like lit gunpowder, and then great, heaving sobs that shook his entire frame. The depth of his want was an ache in his chest, a gaping maw that threatened to cave his ribs in, to sink his breastbone until it hit his spine, nothing but sheer, desperate yearning left in its wake. It was childish, he knew, to cry over something as trivial as an impossible ceremony when he’d spent years by his love’s side, but it wasn’t just that, not really. It was the unfairness of it all. The greed, the ambition, the ignorance that had gotten them here, to this awful, hopeless moment.

“It’s not fair,” he sobbed, burying his face in Simon’s chest, his hands clutching desperately at the soft shirt stretched across his broad back like a lifeline, like the crumpled fabric in his fists was the only thing tethering him to reality.

“It’s not,” Simon murmured, his lips pressed into his hair, and Johnny could hear the tears in his voice, the hitch in his breath. “It’s not fucking fair, love.”

There was no comfort in the words, only helpless commiseration. The only comfort lay in the heat of Simon’s thighs bracketing his, the tears he could feel dripping from Simon’s chin onto the shaved portions of his head, the stuttered sweep of Simon’s hand down his back.

When his sobs leveled out, smoothing into soft breathing again, his tears were dried by the impending heat. The explosions were closer now, close enough to shake the ground beneath them, but neither of them moved. There was no escaping. Johnny felt wrung out as he leaned his weight on Simon, leaning into the comforting heat of him instead of the familiar heat of destruction. He hadn’t wanted it to end like this, either. He’d wanted that wedding, retirement with the love of his life, a secluded cottage with a cat or two, lazy nights and even lazier mornings. He’d wanted to spend the rest of his life with Simon, but not like this. Never like this.

It was better than nothing, though.

“I’m glad that it’s us,” he said, voice roughened by tears and the dust kicked up from the approaching devastation. “I didn’t want it to end this way, but I’m glad that we’re together.”

The next explosion was close enough to ruffle their clothes in the shockwave and Simon tilted Johnny’s head up, his thumb lightly stroking the scar there with an impossibly soft look in his eyes. Johnny wanted to live in his eyes, wanted to drown in that softness. He’d never tire of Simon’s eyes and the depths they held.

“It’ll always be us, Johnny,” Simon said. “Where you go, I go. I’ve got your six.”

The birdsong had stopped, Johnny vaguely registered, but it was the least of his concerns as Simon pulled him closer, their lips connecting in a gentle brush. There was no rush, no thrumming impatience, no underlying need to take more. Just the two of them, tangled together so tightly that neither knew where one ended and the other began, their endless love expressed in the simple press of skin and lips.

Centuries later, when their bones were found, skeletons curled together like puzzle pieces, locked in an immortal embrace, the only thing that was known about them was that they loved each other, deeply, infinitely, right up until the end.

[turttastic]

Ranking potential Kaladin fates from best to worst in my opinion. Obviously this is just my personal feelings:

Desirable Outcomes:

1: My Ideal World:

Kaladin stays romantically uninvolved, but ends up in a position where he is responsible for kids. Maybe he's a teacher, maybe he raises Shadolin's kids if something happens to them, maybe he raises Oradin. He would be great with kids, he's such a protector and I think the unconditional love of a kid would be good for him personally. He is ideal for a found family setup, honestly, and I don't particularly want to see him get paired off with a woman just to create a nuclear family.

2: Impossible but beautiful world:

Kaladin, Adolin, and Shallan polycule. They understand him, they love him, they are both capable of providing him with different types of support and won't be intimidated by his personality. Adolin is an absolutely crucial part of the puzzle here, though. To me, Adolin x Kaladin can work without Shallan, Adolin x Shallan works without Kaladin, but Kaladin x Shallan cannot exist without Adolin because it would be catastrophic.

3. Monster fucker win:

Kaladin ends up in a partnership with Leshwi that is probably somewhat ambiguous but has a distinct romantic undertone to it. They already have a warriors bond and respect/have a vested interest in each others continued survival. There's a deep relationship there for sure. I don't personally see it as romantic but I think it'd work fine if it was. Wouldn't detract from either character.

Neutral Outcomes:

4. The Easy Way Out:

Kaladin finds Tarah again and ends up with her. This feels like the most obvious and perhaps most likely possibility. It's boring, it's uninventive, I don't want to see it happen, but I guess it's fine? It's a nice conclusion to Kaladin learning to live in the present, but it just feels too easy.

5. Windrunner bloodline:

Kaladin gets back together with Lyn. She can do better tbh. I love Kaladin but hes a lot. He also is kind of a traditional type of guy when it comes to gender and relationships I think, and Lyn is the type of woman who wants to break away from tradition. They just don't fit to me. Only reason this happens is because they specifically want Kaladin to marry a Windrunner and have kids that seem destined to be Windrunners also until they're not.

6. Blaze of Glory:

Kaladin dies in book 5 saving someone else. It would be so so so upsetting for this to happen and unfair to Kaladin personally but it wouldn't butcher his character at least. Like it would suck, I would go catatonic, but it'd be like Vin and Elend dying. It seems like a believable fate for him to meet, as heartbreaking as it is.

Bad Outcomes:

7. White Woman Jumpscare:

Kaladin ends up with Laral. What can i even say about this. Childhood friends to enemies to strangers to Kaladin pitying Laral in a way that really pissed her off because of how condescending and patronizing it was. I don't want them together.

8. Chrom's fate:

Kaladin gets married to a random, unimportant woman between books 5 and 6 solely for the purpose of creating plot relevant children that will likely ultimately be used to hurt him.

9. Depressed together:

Adolin dies and Shallan ends up with Kaladin. Any outcome where Adolin dies is unacceptable to me but thus one especially. I love Kaladin. I love Shallan. I love them both in a relationship with Adolin, mutually or separately. But they cannot under any circumstances be allowed to date just each other. They understand each other's trauma and are drawn to each other, but neither of them is capable of helping the other process their trauma while also dealing with their own feelings. It's a relationship destined to crash and burn from my perspective.

10. Hell and hate on planet Roshar

Syl takes a physical form and gets romantically involved with Kaladin. Literally the worst possible thing I can imagine happening to either of them. Their souls are bound together, they are vital to one another, and they love each other, but not Like That. It's closer to a sibling relationship than anything. This particular situation could only arise from a gross misunderstanding of their relationship as its been developed thus far.

[beatingthedeadhorse]

Omega-verse Master Post - All info and links will be here

[Edit - this is going to link through to all the initial posts and ideas. When more discourse, and a more thorough approach is reached, an updated version in far greater detail will exist here, or probably on Ao3.]

So, I'm a little sick and tired of seeing 'non-traditional A/B/O dynamics' tags only to read the most misogynistic shit I've ever read - which is what traditional dynamics were - so lets make our own in a way that makes sense.

1 )

First of all, what is this dynamic? How does it work? What are secondaries? I will add resource posts below as I go.

Alphas [here]

Alpha Males

Alpha Females

Betas [here]

Beta Males

Beta Intersex/Hermaphrodites

Beta Females

Omegas [here]

Omega Males

Omega Females

Non-traditional additions

Trans A/B/O

Sigma/Delta/Gamma

Misconceptions (In-world and real world) [here]

2 )

Secondly, how did this dynamic come to be? Why is this here? What world building have you got in place to make an Omega-verse either necessary or interesting.

External Forces [here]

The Alien Theory

The Magic Theory

The Scientific Accident Theory

Genetic Path Always Meant To Be [here]

The Evolutionary Step Theory

The Lost Third Gender Theory

The Loneliness Theory

3 )

Thirdly, and I swear, if all of your Omega-verse content relies exclusively on the western and modern ideals on how relationships and society works, you're not trying hard enough. There are so many cultures and environments out there in our actual world that would change how these dynamics are treated. How would this work.

Social Structure, Standards, and Variations

Enironmental factors

Cultural diversity [Ethnicity here, Culture here]

Beauty Standards

Pack Structure and Politics [here]

Instincts Engrained in Genetics

4 )

Lastly, what resources exist in this world as a support for people, families, and communities. How do heat suppressants work? How do governments operate around a non-nuclear family unit?

Support, Education and Supplication

Planned Parenthoods for Omegas

Heat and Rut support

Suppressors and Pseudo Sexual Science

Sex Education in the Omega-verse

Births, Deaths, Marriage, and Divorce

These are all important considerations writers frequently forget when making A/B/O fiction. Hopefully, a thorough, and perhaps uselessly long extrapolation provides at least some clarity, and helps writers create a more complex world to operate with.

Any other advice from people who actually feel sexual needs would be nice, at this point.

[I will also take recommendations from the Trans community on how the fuck they want this to work in the Omega-verse, because you bet people are Trans in Omega-verse.

...

I can't believe I'm writing this. I don't even like this genre.]

[thechrissyeollie]

The Proust Questionnaire

The Proust Questionnaire has its origins in a parlor game popularized (though not devised) by Marcel Proust, the French essayist and novelist, who believed that, in answering these questions, an individual reveals his or her true nature.

tagged by @thechrissyeollie

1. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Heaven

2. What is your greatest fear? Turning into a dark entity it's probably not possible but I feel like that would be a sad pathetic existence

3. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?I don't forgive but I do forget

4. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Guess I steer away from people who aren't honest with themselves

5. Which living person do you most admire? The being whom I wrote down for this answer died before I could finish this. Such a beautiful light in this world regardless of his circumstance hope to see him again in a next life or on the other side

6. What is your greatest extravagance? Caffeine

7. What is your current state of mind? Happily miffed

8. What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Temperance right guys?!Cheers!!(chugs whiskey)

9. On what occasion do you lie? When I say I'm going to do something then don't

10. What do you most dislike about your appearance? Wish I could dress sexier than this but I'm afraid I'll cause more heart attacks

11. Which living person do you most despise? My boyfriend.... since he makes it so hard to hate him

12. What is the quality you most like in a man? Freaks

13. What is the quality you most like in a woman? Weirdos

14. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Wash your hands

15. What or who is the greatest love of your life? My daughter

16. When and where were you happiest? Naked in the sprinklers

17. Which talent would you most like to have? Spider whisperer

18. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Always get called Carrie when I finally snap the earth gets mad along with me things explode disasters happen so I'll be constantly working extra hard to stay calm for everyone's safety which is not easy

19. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Every time I grab my bindle and move on

20. If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? Nuclear waste so I can live forever!

21. Where would you most like to live? Inside Mt.Shasta but they wont let me in

22. What is your most treasured possession? The roof over my head

23. What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery? I can pull through all sorts of mayhem but there's nothing like some family gathering that has the power to send me into a life altering spiral

24. What is your favorite occupation? Liked all the jobs I've had over time but enjoyed working at the cemetery the most

25. What is your most marked characteristic? Curious

26. What do you most value in your friends? We must have each others backs

27. Who are your favorite writers? Ghost writers

28. Who is your hero of fiction? Rainbowbrite

29. Which historical figure do you most identify with? Don't know if this counts but I've always felt like I am some sort of cyclops trapped inside this cute little body

30. Who are your heroes in real life? My cat Bell is a savior found him at the worst time he just sat in the palm of my hand oinking like a pig

31. What are your favorite names? The whimsical ones

32. What is it that you most dislike?  Divide and conquer

33. What is your greatest regret? Doing the right thing then it turns out not to be

34. How would you like to die? In a way where my loved ones get a big cash payout

35. What is your motto? "Let's have this is a shitty day party"

tagging @inspiritjun @belljiji @sweetpeaches-and-snowypearflower @kmusicistheshit aka @velummortis @infinitebearfoxdahae89 @sunny-is-the-sun @moonflowerglowing @solrason @maylacute @heavensoft @mysticallion @the-stygian-witch @poobearwish @dlgnns @wonhOz @endof-vanity @hhuta @cupkud @yeolah @forevamsoo

[jadhavpropmart]

Morphosis Adagio: Premium 2BHK Flats in Mulund's Thriving Real Estate Market

Mulund, a vibrant suburb in Mumbai, is quickly becoming one of the city's most sought-after real estate destinations. Among the many promising residential projects in this area, Morphosis Adagio stands out for its exceptional offerings, particularly its 2BHK flats. With its blend of luxurious amenities, strategic location, and thoughtfully designed living spaces, Morphosis Adagio is the ideal choice for families, professionals, and investors alike. In this article, we explore why this project has become a top pick in the ever-evolving Mulund real estate market.

Strategic Location of Morphosis Adagio in Mulund

Location is one of the key reasons Morphosis Adagio is garnering attention in Mulund. Nestled in Mulund West, the project offers seamless connectivity to key parts of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and the Thane district. It is well-connected by road through the LBS Marg, Eastern Express Highway, and the Mulund-Airoli Bridge, making daily commutes hassle-free for professionals working in business hubs like Powai, Vikhroli, and Thane

Mulund Station- 10 Mins Walking Distance.

Mulund Cheknaka- 5 Mins.

R Mall- 5 Mins.

Proposed Metro Station- 7 Mins..

Modern Amenities Designed for Comfort and Luxury

Morphosis Adagio offers a range of world-class amenities that cater to the diverse needs of today’s modern homebuyers. Whether you are looking for recreation, relaxation, or fitness, this project has it all. Here’s a look at some of the standout amenities:

Clubhouse

Swimming Pool

Gymnasium

Landscaped Gardens

Kids’ Play Area

Jogging Track

Spacious 2BHK Flats: A Blend of Practicality and Style

Configuration- 2BHK

1) 521 sqft

2) 672 sqft

3) 718 sqft

4) 760 sqft

Morphosis Adagio offers meticulously designed 2BHK flats in mulund that are perfect for nuclear families, couples, and individuals seeking a comfortable and modern living space. The apartments feature well-planned layouts that maximize space utilization while maintaining an elegant and stylish design. Key features of the 2BHK flats at Morphosis Adagio include:

Spacious Living Area: The living room is designed to provide a comfortable and airy space for family gatherings and relaxation, with large windows allowing plenty of natural light.

Modern Kitchen: The open-plan kitchen is equipped with modern fittings and fixtures, offering convenience and functionality for everyday cooking.

Two Bedrooms with Attached Bathrooms: The 2BHK flats come with two well-sized bedrooms, each with an attached bathroom, ensuring privacy and convenience for the entire family.

Balcony with Scenic Views: Many apartments feature a private balcony, allowing residents to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding cityscape or lush greenery.

Conclusion

For homebuyers and investors seeking a luxurious yet affordable living experience Property in Mulund, Morphosis Adagio is an excellent choice. The project’s 2BHK flats offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and practicality, while the location ensures excellent connectivity and future growth potential. With its world-class amenities and promising appreciation value, Morphosis Adagio is truly a standout project in Mulund’s real estate market.

For more details visit our site: https://www.propmart.co/city/properties-in-mulund/

[psionotic]

My Favorite Culture 2023

It's New Year's Eve, so time again for my annual post to this platform! Here are the things I experienced for the first time in 2023 though of course not all of them are from 2023.

—Books—

Tell Me I’m Worthless. There’s something rotten in the haunted house of Albion, and it’s British fascism and increasingly normalized transphobia.

Station Eleven. The world ended, but a small troupe of survivors travel the wasteland, performing Shakespeare and making music.

Friday Black. A collection of science fiction stories that nibble at our social and racial conscience. “Through the Flash” has become one of my favorite short stories.

Klara and the Sun. Another Ishiguro novel narrated by an insightful, sensitive outsider? Check. Sad robots and sick kids? Ow my heart.

Piranesi. A stately, somber fantasy about truth, memory, and identity (re-)formation.

I also enjoyed: Kaiju Preservation Society, The Many Deaths of Laila Starr

Classics I read for the first time: The Scarlet Letter, Billy Budd, Bartleby the Scrivener, Clotel, Little Women, The Awakening, Immortality, Assassin’s Apprentice, Man’s Search for Meaning, The Witching Hour, ‘Salem’s Lot, The Remains of the Day, Between Two Fires, The Leftovers

I was mixed on: Fairy Tale, You Died: An Anthology of the Afterlife

I was bummed out by: California

—Movies—

Godzilla Minus One. Yes, the best movie I saw this year is about a giant nuclear-powered monster. It’s also about found family, redemption, and reckoning with a nation’s trauma—and shame.

Barbie. The anti-Fight Club; an all-singing, all-dancing Jewel of the World.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Come for the visual and auditory wonderlands, stay for the kinds of character stakes that more literary films can only genuflect towards.

Nimona. An adorable sci-fantasy queer allegory anchored by the punk rock snarl of Chloë Grace Moretz.

The Menu. The world’s most feted, reclusive chef (Ralph Fiennes @ maximum menace) throws an invitation-only dinner for some jagoff 1%-ers. Things get weird and then very, very bloody. Also Anya Taylor-Joy is in this and she’s maybe my favorite working actress..?

I also enjoyed: Polite Society, I Tonya, Elemental, The Marvels, No One Will Save You, Two Distant Strangers, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Classics I saw for the first time: The Haunting (1963), In the Mouth of Madness, Escape from New York, The Warriors, Lady Snowblood, Stalker, Sicario, Hanna, Insidious, Devil’s Pass, Edge of Tomorrow

I was mixed on: Creator, Last Night in Soho [though AT-J does her best!], The Invitation

I was bummed out by: Totally Killer

—TV—

Reservation Dogs. Succeeded Atlanta and Derry Girls as the best show about loveable weirdoes living in fraught circumstances. Now all three are over and I don’t know what to do, except say, “Love you bitches.”

Poker Face. Natasha Lyonne in a Rian Johnson-channeling Knives Out-by-way-of-Columbo joint with fun mysteries, a delicious visual sense, and delightful guest stars playing against type.

Scavengers Reign. Spacefarers separated during an emergency land on an alien world. An alien alien world with a complex, baffling ecosystem. Each is transformed by their experience. Alternatingly beautiful, horrifying, and profound.

Cunk on Earth. In this very British documentary series about the rise (?) of civilization, comedian Diane Morgan (as Philomena Cunk) asks some of the smartest historians and critics some of the dumbest questions imaginable. We’ve watched this maybe ten times this year, and it just keeps getting funnier every single one. Best line: “…they’d probably have a stroke, wouldn’t they?”

I also enjoyed: Silo, Fall of the House of Usher, The Last of Us, Harley Quinn, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, What We Do in the Shadows, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Castlevania: Nocturne, Star Trek: Lower Decks and Strange New Worlds, Last Week Tonight, Taylor Tomlinson’s Quarter-Life Crisis and Look at You, Game Changer

I was mixed on: Star Wars: Ahsoka. Apparently the only nu-SW I can really enjoy is Andor and The Last Jedi…? Sad, this is.

—YT—

Folding Ideas. The best video essay channel covered the Metaverse, BlizzCon, and the GameStop stonks phenomenon this year.

Hbomberguy. The best video essay channel put out only a single video this year, the nearly four hour “Plagiarism and You(Tube)” which broke the internet and ended at least two careers.

Jacob Geller. The best video essay channel put out a half dozen videos this year, covering horror games, “Art in the Pre-Apocalypse”, the non-evolution of execution methods, and more.

Double Fine PsychOdyssey. A 32-part making-of documentary, following an indie game developer trying to build the at-long-last sequel to their most iconic game. During the seven years of development they face personality conflicts, staffing issues, artistic disagreements, the implosion of their publisher, angry fanboys, COVID, near-bankruptcy, a buy-out attempt, and a thousand other obstacles. If you’re interested in game development this is a must, but it’s also highly recommended to anyone involved with or fascinated by making collaborative art under capitalism (theater, film, etc).

—Games—

Baldur’s Gate 3. This was an incredible year for games, but nothing tops Larian Studios’ masterpiece. As good a simulation of an excellent D&D campaign as is possible in the medium, they’ve done just about everything right: deep character creation, memorable side characters and relationships, decisions with consequences that really matter, epic story moments, and satisfying tactical combat through some clever simplifications to the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition ruleset. People will be talking about (and re-playing) this for a long, long time.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The follow-up to one of the most creative and joyful open-world games ever made is even better than its predecessor, with a more heartfelt story and an unsurpassed physics and building system.

Alan Wake 2. Remedy’s Stephen King-meets-Twin Peaks classic got its loooong-awaited sequel. One half survival horror, one half hallucinogenic crazy train, all disturbing surreal goodness.

Marvel’s Midnight Suns. A little X-COM, a little Fire Emblem: Three Houses, marrying satisfying card- and turn-based tactical combat with some lovely character work. I never always knew I wanted to go stargazing with Illyana Rasputin, or watch movies with Nico Minoru, and this year I did both of these. (I also went fishing with Blade and joined a book club with Wolverine, so…).

I also enjoyed: Remnant 2, Dead Cells, Marvel Snap, Dead Space (2023), Resident Evil 4 (2023), Spiritfarer, Ratchet & Clank: A Rift Apart, Super Mario Wonder, Mario Kart 8 (booster courses)

Classics I played for the first time: Psychonauts, Portal 2, Rayman Legends

I was bummed out by: Diablo 4 [congrats to my once-favorite developer for earning this spot two years in a row!]

—Albums—

boygenius: The Record. Supergroup of queer indie-rock darlings put out their first LP and it’s top-to-bottom majesty. “Leonard Cohen” and “Not Strong Enough” might be my favorites now, but “True Blue” was my song o’ the summer and I must have spun it up a hundred times.

Mountain Goats: Jenny from Thebes. The first concert I’ve seen post-COVID was the Sacramento leg of the Goats’ recent tour. “Fresh Tattoo”, “Clean Slate”, and “Great Pirates” are highlights.

Susanne Sundfør: Blómi. I think I prefer the more europop-centric installments in Sundfør’s arty europop oeuvre (Ten Love Songs is still my fave), but there are some lovely songs here in art-music land, including the title track and “fare thee well” .

I was mixed on: Janelle Monáe: The Age of Pleasure, Paramore: This is Why.

—Podcasts—

If Books Could Kill. Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri vivisect nonfiction bestsellers about politics, dating, manifesting, getting rich (quick!), and weight loss. Remember kids: Gladwell is a hack.

Just King Things. Two cultural critics who loved Stephen King as teens take up the Roland-ian task of reading and discussing every King book, once a month, for as long as it takes (the current schedule goes through 2028, but Uncle Steve is still pumpin’ ‘em out, so could be a while).

Triple Click. Kirk, Maddy, and Jason’s weekly non-cynical discussions of games and pop culture is my mood-enhancer. They’re gamers, but not Gamers, you understand.

I also listen to: You’re Wrong About, Hard Feelings with Jennette McCurdy, WTF with Marc Maron, The Besties/The Resties, Strong Songs

[200daystoanything]

The Imminent End

November 14th, 2023

Day 1 of the Journey to the Beginning or End of Anything at All

(I write this blog five days later)

I needed a kick in my ass, something to motivate me to do what I needed to do. Our family's mission has been bottlenecking to these moments right now, where I just had to put the pieces in place, so we could go and finally relax for the next 6 months. It had been two weeks of saying we would be gone from my mom's property in 2-3 days. I was done, my husband Banjo was done, our 10-year-old son Jethro was missing contact with other kids, our 15-month-old Jazzlyn was doing just fine, my mom AKA Yaya, was enjoying our company more than I realized. We had been saying how grateful we were for her putting up with our 40-foot school bus in her driveway and our personal belongings taking up space in every single nook and cranny of her house and property. But when we left, when we finally left (the 17th), she was obviously stricken with sadness at how a part of her heart would be taken with us when we took our little family of four south for the winter.

Banjo's mom, a beautiful, powerful, magical woman, the matriarch of our family and traveling caravan of do-gooders, passed away during her second open heart surgery on December 27th, 2023. She was 57 years old. It broke our hearts and we are still mending every day from the void she left.

I know, I know, there is a lot of broken hearts right now, isn't there? Yes, the beginning of this journey is certainly a painful one, as are the beginnings or ends of most things in this life.

So, you know what we are dealing with at this point. Where we are coming from. We acquired most of Mumzee's belongings when she passed and we had been trying to transmute - a fancy word Mumzee liked to use a lot - the feeling of being overburdened by things, to the feeling of gratitude for the opportunity to organize, bundle and disperse these beautiful things that she and we, had spent our entire lives collecting.

Trying hasn't been good enough... we want to change the world. We already have, as we cannot help but to exist and change the world around us, but we need to make big change and quickly.

So, there I was, staring at the piles and piles of things we decided we wanted to work on for the winter, to relax and finally enjoy ourselves. I need something to motivate me to do this thing I've been doing for nearly a year... and there it came. A message on messenger from a dear friend.

"Yo. WW3 is imminent now. We need to have a plan in place for nuclear fallout."

This message was the beginning of a series of thoughts being thrown back and forth, as my emotions got progressively more intense.

I have spent my entire life, feeling it in my bones, seeing the end of times in dreams monthly, that I might in fact, witness a catastrophic end to mankind in my lifetime. I have also spent my entire life wanting to make great change, remove mass amounts of carbon dioxide from the air, encourage recycling habits in corporate locations, clean trash from oceans and save wildlife from dying by manmade materials, etc.

This wasn't a shock. I'd heard people speaking about this, slipping through the cracks of FB algorithms and in conversations about politics and the levity of the decisions being made in the warzones. But there I was, looking at our escape vehicle, our home, and I was in shambles. I was shaking with anxiety and going back and forth trying not to lose my damn mind. This wasn't the first time I had found myself, with my OCD tendencies, displaying this type of behavior over the last 10 months. I reacted like this for about an hour.

"I need to bring at least a bow and some arrows." "Where is that excess supply of first aid body wraps?" "I need to buy my family a supply of food in case the country start rationing their food." "I don't even know how to sail..."

"I need to calm the fuck down or I am going to hurt myself." "But what if nothing happens and the threat of a world war is just that? Like it has been for years. A threat. Talk. Fear." "Where is my brain going? I have always believed that I manifest my reality, so if I carry on like this, will my thoughts spill to the next person and so forth, and my fears actually create a war?!

Okay, so if my thoughts create my reality, I can create any future I want... I am reminded of my 200 day blog. Every day was a coin toss. I die soon, or I live out my life. Doing that blog really caused me to take action.

What if..."

Well, obviously today is Day 1. In my previous blog I think I had planning to start a few days later, I don't quite recall. Why would I start this on any other day, but the day I received the news? A radiant beam of information appeared before me and I had the opportunity to believe it or to not, and to live my life as such.

Time to reel the family into this.

[roamanddiscover]

Marshall Islands

Name of Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, officially known as the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is an island country located in the Pacific Ocean. It consists of 29 atolls and 5 individual islands, with a total of 1,156 islands spread across 1,990,530 square kilometers of ocean. The name "Marshall Islands" is derived from British explorer John Marshall, who visited the islands in 1788. The Marshall Islands have a rich history and culture, with a strong connection to the ocean and their ancestral heritage. The people of the Marshall Islands have inhabited these islands for thousands of years and have developed a unique way of life that revolves around the sea. They have a deep respect for nature and the resources it provides, and their traditions and customs reflect their close relationship with the environment. Despite their small size and remote location, the Marshall Islands have made significant contributions to the world. The country is known for its active participation in international affairs, particularly in the areas of climate change and nuclear disarmament. The Marshall Islands have been vocal advocates for action on climate change, as they are one of the nations most vulnerable to the effects of global warming. - Key Points: - The Marshall Islands is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. - The name "Marshall Islands" is derived from British explorer John Marshall. - The people of the Marshall Islands have a deep connection to the ocean and nature. Population Capital Official Language 58,413 (2020 estimate) Majuro Marshallese and English

Etymology in Marshall Islands

The etymology of the Marshall Islands is rooted in its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. The name "Marshall Islands" itself is believed to have originated from British Captain John Marshall, who explored the region in the late 18th century. However, the islands have a deeper connection to their indigenous roots, with the local name for the islands being "Aelōñin Ṃajeḷ" in the Marshallese language. The Marshallese language holds great significance in understanding the etymology of the islands. Marshallese is a Malayo-Polynesian language and is part of the Austronesian language family. It bears resemblance to other languages spoken in the Pacific. The language itself reflects the values, traditions, and cultural aspects of the Marshallese people, providing valuable insights into the origins of the names given to the islands, local customs, and ancient practices. Exploring the etymology of the Marshall Islands further reveals the influence of European explorers, traders, and missionaries who interacted with the indigenous communities throughout history. The islands were part of Spain's colonial empire in the 16th century before coming under the control of Germany in the late 19th century. The German era brought a noticeable German influence, resulting in the adoption of German terminology and place names. The subsequent Japanese occupation during World War II also left its mark on the islands' etymology. - In summary, the etymology of the Marshall Islands is a fascinating blend of indigenous Marshallese language, European influence, and cultural adaptations over time. The names of the islands and local terminologies reflect the intertwined history and diverse origins of the people who have inhabited this beautiful archipelago for centuries. Key Points 1. The name "Marshall Islands" may have originated from Captain John Marshall, a British explorer. 2. The local name for the islands is "Aelōñin Ṃajeḷ" in the Marshallese language. 3. The Marshallese language holds cultural significance and provides insights into the origins of names and local customs. 4. European explorers, traders, and missionaries have influenced the etymology of the islands. 5. German and Japanese occupations have also left their mark on the islands' etymology.

History in Marshall Islands

The history of the Marshall Islands is a fascinating tale of resilience, bravery, and cultural preservation. Spanning thousands of years, the islands have been inhabited since at least 2,000 BCE by Micronesian seafarers. The indigenous people of the Marshall Islands, known as the Marshallese, developed a unique seafaring culture, using their expert navigational skills to explore and settle the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. One of the most significant events in the history of the Marshall Islands was the arrival of European explorers in the 16th century. Spanish navigators, led by Álvaro de Saavedra Cerón, were among the first Europeans to set foot on the islands. However, it was not until the late 19th century that the islands came under colonial rule, first by Germany, then Japan during World War I. The impact of colonization on the Marshall Islands was profound. The islands became a major battleground during World War II, as the United States and Japan fought for control of the Pacific. The fierce battles and subsequent nuclear testing conducted on the islands left a lasting impact on the environment and the lives of the Marshallese people. - Despite the challenges faced by the Marshall Islands throughout its history, the Marshallese people have shown remarkable resilience and a deep commitment to preserving their culture and heritage. Today, they continue to pass down traditional knowledge and practices to future generations, ensuring the survival of their unique way of life. Key events in the history of the Marshall Islands The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century Colonial rule by Germany and Japan World War II and the impact of nuclear testing Independence from the United States in 1986

Geology in Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean, are a group of islands and atolls that are known for their stunning natural beauty. The geology of this remote island nation is unique and fascinating, with a rich history that spans millions of years. From volcanic activity to coral reefs, the geology of the Marshall Islands has played a significant role in shaping the landscape and creating the diverse ecosystems that exist today. One of the most prominent features of the geology in the Marshall Islands is the presence of coral reefs. These reefs are the result of thousands of years of coral growth, as well as the sinking and rising of the ocean floor. The coral reefs not only provide a habitat for a wide variety of marine life, but they also protect the islands from erosion and act as a natural barrier against storm surges. In addition to coral reefs, the Marshall Islands also have a number of volcanic formations. These volcanic features are remnants of past volcanic activity, which occurred millions of years ago. The islands themselves are the tips of ancient undersea volcanoes, which have gradually risen above the surface of the ocean over time. While there is no active volcanic activity in the Marshall Islands today, the remnants of past eruptions can still be seen in the form of volcanic craters and lava flows. - The geology of the Marshall Islands is not only important for understanding the history of the islands, but it also has practical implications for the people who live there. The unique geology of the islands has resulted in limited freshwater resources, as well as a vulnerability to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. As a result, the people of the Marshall Islands have had to adapt and find innovative solutions to these challenges. They have implemented conservation measures to protect the fragile coral reefs and have explored alternative sources of freshwater, such as rainwater catchment systems. - Overall, the geology of the Marshall Islands is a testament to the power of nature and the resilience of the people who call these islands home. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving our natural resources, and the need to adapt and find sustainable solutions in the face of environmental challenges. Whether through the stunning coral reefs or the ancient volcanic formations, the geology of the Marshall Islands continues to inspire awe and appreciation for the wonders of our natural world. Key Takeaways: 1. Coral reefs: The Marshall Islands are home to beautiful coral reefs, which provide a habitat for marine life and protect the islands from erosion. 2. Volcanic formations: The islands are the remnants of ancient undersea volcanoes, with visible volcanic craters and lava flows. 3. Adaptation and conservation: The unique geology of the islands has led to limited freshwater resources and vulnerability to rising sea levels, prompting the need for conservation measures and innovative solutions.

Geography in Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean, is a mesmerizing archipelago consisting of 29 coral atolls and 5 low-lying islands. It is a place where natural beauty thrives, and its geography plays a significant role in shaping the unique characteristics of this nation. The islands, scattered over 750,000 square miles of ocean, are a sight to behold. Lush green landscapes, crystal clear turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, make the Marshall Islands a haven for visitors from around the world. Nature has truly blessed these islands with breathtaking beauty that captivates the soul and ignites a sense of wonder. The geography of the Marshall Islands consists of two main groups: the Ratak Chain in the east and the Ralik Chain in the west. The atolls and islands are spread across these chains, creating a diverse and captivating landscape. From the low-lying coral atolls, such as Majuro and Kwajalein Atoll, to the higher volcanic islands, like Likiep and Wotje, each offers its own unique charm and allure.

Ecology in Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, a stunning archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, is not just a tropical paradise; it is also home to a rich and diverse ecological system. The ecology of the Marshall Islands is a testament to the wonders of nature and the resilience of the environment. From its vibrant coral reefs to its lush forests, the Marshall Islands boast a unique and fragile ecosystem that deserves our admiration and protection. One of the most remarkable features of the Marshall Islands' ecology is its extensive coral reef system. The pristine reefs are teeming with an abundance of marine life, serving as a sanctuary for a myriad of colorful fish, exciting sea turtles, and countless other fascinating creatures. These reefs not only provide a breathtaking underwater spectacle but also play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. Sadly, like many coral reefs around the world, those in the Marshall Islands face the threats of climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. It is imperative that we take action to preserve and restore these fragile underwater wonders. Not only does the Marshall Islands offer magnificent marine life, but it is also home to a diverse range of terrestrial ecosystems. The lush forests that cover the islands are host to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, these forests are under constant pressure from deforestation, invasive species, and habitat destruction. It is crucial that we recognize the significance of these ecosystems and work together to protect and restore them for future generations. - Aside from the coral reefs and forests, the Marshallese ecology is also characterized by its mangrove forests. These unique coastal ecosystems play a crucial role in supporting marine life, protecting shorelines from erosion, and serving as nurseries for various species. Unfortunately, these vital habitats are also facing significant threats, including coastal development and climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and increased storm intensity. Preserving these mangrove forests is not only essential for the ecological balance but also for the protection of the islands' communities and infrastructure. Biodiversity Climate Change Pollution The Marshall Islands are known for their rich biodiversity, with numerous endemic species found across the islands. By preserving and protecting their unique natural habitats, we can ensure the survival of these remarkable plants and animals. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, the Marshall Islands are particularly vulnerable to its impacts. Rising sea levels and more frequent and intense storms threaten both the coral reefs and the coastal ecosystems, putting the delicate balance of the environment at risk. Pollution, whether it be from plastic waste or chemical contaminants, poses a significant threat to the ecology of the Marshall Islands. It is crucial to raise awareness and implement policies to reduce pollution and protect the environment from further degradation. Preserving and promoting the ecological well-being of the Marshall Islands is not just a responsibility of the Marshallese people; it is a global imperative. We must recognize the interconnectedness of our planet's ecosystems and work together to protect and restore them. Each individual can make a difference by reducing their ecological footprint, advocating for sustainable practices, and supporting conservation efforts. Together, we can ensure that the natural wonders of the Marshall Islands thrive for generations to come.

Biodiversity in Marshall Islands

Biodiversity in Marshall Islands is a topic of great importance, as this small island nation is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The unique geographical location and diverse ecosystems of the Marshall Islands have contributed to the remarkable biodiversity found within its borders. From pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life to lush tropical rainforests hosting a multitude of plant species, this country is a treasure trove of natural wonders. One aspect that makes the biodiversity in Marshall Islands truly fascinating is the presence of endemic species. These are plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. The isolation of the islands has allowed for the evolution of unique species that have adapted to the specific conditions of their environment. For example, the Marshall Islands tree snail (Papustyla pulcherrima) is a beautiful and rare mollusk that can only be found in this archipelago. The conservation of biodiversity in Marshall Islands is a critical task that requires concerted efforts from both the government and the local communities. With the increasing threats posed by climate change, overfishing, and pollution, it is crucial to protect and preserve the fragile ecosystems that support this rich diversity of life. Initiatives such as establishing marine protected areas and implementing sustainable fishing practices are key to ensuring the long-term survival of the unique species that call the Marshall Islands home.

Coral reefs

Climate in Marshall Islands

The climate in the Marshall Islands is characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, with high temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The islands are located in the Pacific Ocean and are part of the Micronesia region. The climate is influenced by the trade winds and the proximity to the Equator. The Marshall Islands experience a hot and humid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F (27°C) to 90°F (32°C) all year round. The high levels of humidity, combined with the warm temperatures, create a tropical environment that is ideal for the growth of lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. One of the main features of the climate in the Marshall Islands is the abundant rainfall. The islands receive an annual average rainfall of around 100 inches (2,500 mm), with the wettest months occurring between July and October. This rainfall contributes to the lush green landscapes and supports the rich biodiversity found on the islands.

Environmental issues in Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean, is a small island nation with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. However, like many other places around the world, it faces several environmental issues that threaten its delicate ecosystem and the well-being of its people. One of the major environmental issues in the Marshall Islands is the rising sea levels caused by climate change. The islands are particularly vulnerable to the effects of global warming, as most of the land is no more than a few meters above sea level. As a result, the islands are experiencing increased coastal erosion, flooding, and salinization of freshwater resources. Another pressing environmental issue in the Marshall Islands is plastic pollution. With limited disposal and recycling facilities, plastic waste often ends up in the ocean, causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. The government and local communities are taking steps to promote plastic reduction and improve waste management systems, but more needs to be done to address this issue effectively. - Deforestation - Pollution from mining activities - Coral bleaching - Loss of biodiversity Environmental Issues Impact Sea-level rise Coastal erosion, flooding, and freshwater salinization Plastic pollution Harm to marine life and ecosystems Deforestation Habitat loss and soil erosion Pollution from mining activities Contamination of soil and water resources Coral bleaching Destruction of coral reefs and marine biodiversity Loss of biodiversity Disruption of ecological balance and habitat destruction

Politics in Marshall Islands

The politics of Marshall Islands is a fascinating subject that showcases the country's journey towards self-governance and democracy. The rich history and unique cultural heritage of the Marshallese people have influenced the political landscape of the nation. The political system in Marshall Islands is based on a democratic framework with a parliamentary system of government. History of Politics in Marshall Islands The political history of Marshall Islands can be traced back to its colonial past. It was once a part of the German Empire and later came under Japanese control during World War I. After World War II, the United States became the administering authority under the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. The country gained independence in 1986 and adopted a constitution, establishing itself as a sovereign and democratic nation. Political Structure and Institutions The political structure of Marshall Islands is characterized by a mixed system of governance, with both traditional leadership and democratic institutions coexisting. Read the full article

[cipheramnesia]

Please can we have the 5 horror movies that will blow your tits clean off?

Okay, I'm gonna pick from my easy favorites here.

1. Hatching, body horror and family trauma, get settled in to be terrified, have your guts churned by gruesomeness, and be emotionally devastated.

2. His House, beautiful cinematography wraps an anguish riddled story about ghosts and emigration.

3. Der Samurai, included for important gender and queerness reasons.

4. The People Under The Stairs, somehow still continues to be the most slept on horror movie about class inequality even though it's 20 years old.

5. Zombie For Sale, more a comedy than horror but horror is allowed to do this.

6. Daniel Isn't Real, do I have to explain again? Okay how about Some Kind of Hate from the same guy it's also pretty good.

7. For The Sake of Vicious, a home invasion movie that is balls to the wall full tilt rock like a punk song 80 minutes or less.

8. Miracle Mile, the best ever meet cute romantic comedy to end with a nuclear explosion.

9. Videodrome, the all time classic quintessential body horror movie.

10. Sound of Violence, kind of a spiritual sequel to Videodrome, but with sound instead of video.

Any one of these oughta rock your world.

[incense-burner-ideas]

Tell me your confessions (baby what's your worst?)

Based off the idea with the same title in this post. Suggestive NSFW content

Wei Ying was used to the high life. He was, after all, a world-renowned engineer, CEO of an up-and-coming company promoting green nuclear energy that had seen more more progress in one year or so than half the sector as a whole. The tall glass buildings and the shiny black Rolls Royce and Lamborghini cars were nothing new to him. He was used to the Rolexes shining in ambient lighting of posh offices and the city landscapes from the 20th floor up.

It hadn't always been like that, no. Wei Ying did indeed start from the bottom up, and the upgrade from crappy rentals to penthouses was startling to say the least. Moving from retail to nuclear engineering and then business definitely took some getting used to - but with some guidance and resources from sponsors who believed in his dream, Wei Ying managed to fulfill his career dreams in less time than he expected to.

The world of rich people was still fascinating to him. Business lunches, dinners and conferences in tropical places, contracts signed over cocktails and bumping shoulders with the 1% - he had a bit of an anthropological fascination with it all. If he'd had the time, he would have researched into it. Rich people lived in a surprisingly ritualized world, despite the money offering them an obscene degree of freedom to do whatever, including breaking the law or changing it.

But by far the most interesting person he'd met was the second son of the Lan family and vice-CEO of their solar energy provision company, The Cloud Recesses Inc, Lan Wangji. Lan Zhan. He appeared cold, calm and collected every time Wei Ying saw him and spoke to him, a mysterious air about him and his seemingly unbreakable composure. But Wei Ying liked taking things apart. And he took it as a challenge to do the same to the steely-faced man.

Of course, perseveringly, he succeeded. And about a week or two ago, during a charity gala, he managed to finally get under Lan Wangji's skin and even have him drink despite his sworn interdiction to alcohol. Wei Ying was delighted to find out why exactly Lan Zhan didn't drink much, and if he looked hard enough, he could still find the bitemarks Lan Zhan left on him that night even so many days later.

After that, he was sent a contract. A draft contract. To be more specific, a BDSM draft contract.

Wei Ying had been hornily mulling over it since.

---

Lan Wangji walked into his office at 8 am sharp, his assistant already having printed out the day's scheduled meetings and various objectives to be fulfilled for the short term. Coffee awaited him in its usual spot, the far right corner of his desk, two shots of espresso and precisely half a teaspoon of brown sugar in a reusable white cup.

Top of the page, a private, urgent meeting with -

"Mr. Wei has arrived." Lan Wangji's assistant announced after a brief knock to his office's mahogany door. "Should I send him in?"

"No. Bring him to Meeting Room 3."

"Of course. Should I bring any specific paperwork?"

"No, I will handle it."

"Anything else I could do for you?"

"Yes, clear out the rest of my day. I will be busy."

There was a brief look of disbelief on the woman's face, but she didn't protest further than a sigh. "I will let you know when everything is ready."

---

Lan Wangji hadn't expected to feel such a rush of arousal the moment he walked into the meeting room. It was a smaller one, fit for, at most, 8-10 people, with a long, glass table in the center, comfortable chairs, a video projector and several cabinets for document storage. Natural light invaded the space through tall, clean windows displaying a beautiful, city landscape, precisely 23 floors up from the ground.

Lan Wangji didn't know why he paid attention to these details - especially considering how much more interesting his guest was. Wei Ying had taken a seat at one end of the table, studying what Lan Wangji could only presume was their prospective contract, sipping from a cup of steaming coffee.

He wore a black suit, very-well tailored to his body, and a red silk shirt underneath, with three buttons undone, revealing slender collarbones and the lines of his neck, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed his coffee. His hair was down, unbound, and Lan Wangji really wanted to mess it up, pull on it and...

Wei Ying cleared his throat, a smirk on his lips as he confidently leaned back in his chair. "You seem distracted, Mr. Lan."

The way Lan Wangji's eyes darkened with desire had Wei Ying cross his legs.

"Have a seat. I hope I didn't show up too early."

Lan Wangji sat at the other end of the table and laid his own draft of the contract down. "I have been looking forward to meeting you again."

Wei Ying smiled, seductive. "I apologize if I made you wait, I had to do..." and he uncrossed his legs, "...research."

Lan Wangji followed the movement keenly, grateful for the transparent table. "Research?"

Wei Ying chuckled, the sound deep and rich. "Yes. You are quite full of surprises, Mr. Lan. I had to thoroughly prepare myself for this meeting."

There was a double entendre there that made Lan Wangji swallow. Hard.

"Well, then." Wei Ying straightened his posture, his sleeves riding up to reveal a shiny watch and it was the glint of it that drew Wangji's attention towards Wei Ying's hands. He was wearing rings - and his fingers looked even more slender and attractive than he remembered and Wangji was already imagining where he'd want them, rings and all. "Shall we begin?"

Lan Wangji flipped the first page of the contract in response.

"I don't have anything to protest against for the first 20 points of the contract." A smile, "We seem to be quite compatible in our... tastes."

Wei Ying was enjoying this way too much. Lan Zhan would have to punish him for it.

"I'm fine with the safe word system, as well, however, there is something I'd like to add."

"Of course."

"We need a signal for when I can't..." and Wei Ying lifted his eyes from the paper, locking his gaze with Lan Zhan's, "...use my mouth. You will gag me at some point, won't you?"

It sounded more like a challenge than anything.

"What did you have in mind?"

"Three taps on whatever part of you I can reach."

"Alright. I will add that to the contract."

"Good."

Wei Ying flipped another page of the contract and leaned back in his chair, picking up the papers and a pen. "Let's talk hard limits."

"Very well."

"Cross out everything under the impact play section and add it here. No spanking, no paddles or floggers, and definitely no whips."

Lan Wangji could barely conceal his disappointment as he crossed out the section. Wei Ying rose an eyebrow. "Don't look at me like that, I'm not looking to relive my childhood trauma while you fuck me."

Lan Wangji opened his mouth to say something but decided against it. That was something to unpack at a later time, perhaps.

"Also, no knife or blood play for the same reasons, and no filming either. There is no guarantee the wrong thing doesn't end up in the wrong hands."

"I would never-"

"I trust you. But it's technology I don't trust. Everything is hackable, I know from experience."

Yet another interesting thing to look into, Lan Wangji figured. He would have to ask Wei Ying one day what that meant.

Lan Wangji sifted further through the contract, "What's the pain level you're willing to endure? From 1-10?"

"Eight and a half." Wei Ying could only smile at Lan Wangji's surprised expression.

"Precise."

"Precision is my livelihood, Mr. Lan."

Wei Ying put the papers down and decided to shimmy out of his blazer. Lan Wangji couldn't even bother to pretend he wasn't looking.

"To be fair, there's quite a lot of stuff I haven't tried yet in that contract of yours, so I may have to add hard limits in the future."

"I will update the contract accordingly. Anything else?"

Wei Ying rested his chin on his palm, smiling teasingly, "Is drunk sex negotiable? I'd like to do that more often, even if the contract says not to."

"Consent is questionable under the influence."

"I don't think there was anything questionable last time."

Lan Wangji sighed, ran a hand through his hair. "...I will think about it."

"Good boy."

"Wei Ying."

He only laughed. "You're fun to tease."

"The privacy clauses?"

"All good. I'm also fine with the mention of our relationship possibly evolving in the future. I think we'd make quite the pair."

All the teasing was making Lan Wangji's already fragile self control snap. "Will you sign the contract already?"

Wei Ying glided his pen across the paper, leaving his signature with a flourish. "Impatient."

"Excited." Lan Wangji sharply corrected, and Wei Ying could only laugh again the moment the other nearly sprang from his chair to sign as well and pull Wei Ying in a breathtaking kiss.

It was only the need for air that had them break apart, Lan Wangji's mouth descending towards Wei Ying's neck and collarbones.

"Don't you have important things to do today, Mr. Lan?"

"Yes." And he almost ripped Wei Ying's shirt apart, a few buttons flying loose as he ravenously sought more skin. "I'm doing them."

A laugh bubbled into a moan, or two, or a hundred.

If the meeting room was occupied for more than two hours, nobody commented on it. Not even Lan Xichen, who had to hold the monthly board meeting in the ceremony hall, and make a believable excuse as to why his brother wasn't in attendance, though he'd been seen walking into the building. Alas.

[peach-astrology]

Pluto in the houses

Pluto in the first house:

1)Straightforwardness, lack of cunning.

2)A seething volcano of passion,its powerful energy requires a splash in sports, psychological training,public and theatrical performances.

3)You may have an unusual gift for influencing other people,and you may also be strongly influenced by powerful people who you later imitate.

4)Such people have a very deep and slightly bold look.

5)Predisposed to infectious diseases,but recovers quickly.

Pluto in the second house:

1)Pragmatism and organization – if the business doesn’t bring income,quit and start a new one.

2)Can be jealous or greedy.

3)It has several sources of income.

4)You can either completely reject material desires and possessions or you can be completely caught up in possession, possessiveness, and accumulation.

5)They accept the fact that the world is not perfect,but they will try to change it a little.

Pluto in the third house:

1)There may be toxic siblings.

2)When bad aspects can give fear of criticism.With good aspects,a person can give good advice.

3)There are abilities for public speaking or a good education.Can talk loudly.They can be implemented in the field of literature, science,journalism,folk medicine,and esotericism.

4)With bad aspects,speech defects are possible:bad diction,stuttering.

5)He should be careful when traveling,because there is a risk of dangerous situations on the road,especially when traveling by car.

Pluto in the fourth house:

1)A person likes to change everything in the house,often make repairs,update the home.

2)There are disputes "who is stronger" between family members,parents among themselves. If Pluto is hit - incomplete family.

3)It can achieve great success if it becomes engaged in science,research activities in the field of parapsychology,occultism,esotericism or magic.

4)In the last decades of life,such a person can become seriously rich.

5)The defeat of the planet inclines to an open protest against conventional values and a strange distance from society.

Pluto in the fifth house:

1)Great position for actors.By attracting the attention of others with one appearance,a person shows the world not himself,but the role that he considers successful for himself,reincarnating in the right image.This creates difficulties in their personal life,because they fall in love not with him,but with the created image.

2)Their children are strong-willed,talented,and brilliant.But the person treats them strictly.

3)As a boss,it requires discipline and obedience.He manages other people's money better than his own.

4)Such a person may love gambling and take a lot of risks.

5)It is extremely important to learn to find a balance and harmony between courage in actions and caution.

Pluto in the sixth house:

1)With good aspects,human health is often strong,and a strong immune system allows you to survive epidemics,disasters,and natural disasters.

2)Emotions and mental health are directly related to physical health.

3)This position of the planet can bring great changes in the profession.

4)Tend to work too hard,so it's easier for them to work alone and with their own schedule.

5)He has a very good intuition,which is sometimes frightening.You may have prophetic dreams,visions.

Pluto in the seventh house:

1)A stricken Pluto in the 7th house is always an indicator of partner violence.

2)Karmic lesson-to take into account the interests of the partner, to recognize a loved one as an equal.

3)The desire to hide everything personal from prying eyes.

4)A life partner may be attracted to them from a different cultural and social environment, and therefore significant efforts will be required for mutual adaptation on both sides.

5)This aspect favors psychologists, lawyers, and judges.

Pluto in the eighth house:

1)Increased ability to self-renew. Contribute to the self-transformation of collective activities.

2)A person is connected with global financial processes.Can be a banker,a big businessman,a nuclear physicist,engage in genetic engineering,resuscitation.

3)The body is adapted to rapid recovery of strength and structures, and therefore this aspect is often found in centenarians.

4)At critical moments, such a person shows special perseverance and ingenuity.(with good aspects)

5)May indicate a public death.

Pluto in the ninth house:

1)It gives a thirst for knowledge,hard work,great efficiency,but also idealism,deep piety,intuition and the gift of premonition.

2)Such a person often has to completely change their cultural or religious orientation.

3)The defeat of the planet inclines to a limited worldview,a lot of prejudices and an unwillingness to listen to the opinions of other people.

4)Higher education will give them a good job abroad.

5)Truth and justice are most important.

Pluto in the tenth house:

1)Success is always associated with crisis working conditions,which you need to prepare for in advance.

2)The best areas of application of the potential will be military affairs,politics,medicine in the field of surgery,gynecology,and the police.

3)He can become the idol of the crowd and the idol of the masses,gaining fabulous popularity and unlimited authority.

4)Such a person has many ideas and is endowed with eloquence.

5)Such a person is well experienced in life's difficulties.

Pluto in the eleventh house:

1)By expanding the circle of communication, the native is approaching success.

2)Stricken Pluto in the 11th house pushes the wrong choice of environment and colleagues.A planet without aspects often symbolizes loneliness.

3)Such a person can be a successful dynamic leader of a creative team.

4)Good trading and sales skills.

5)Your lovers don't have to be beautiful, they don't have to be athletic or graceful.They may be gentle or gracious, but they are more likely to be ruthless and very emotional.

Pluto in the twelfth house:

1)Fear of water,heights,relationships,and fighting dark forces.

2)This person can play the role of the invisible man:he sees and hears everything,but he is neither seen nor heard.

3)Free profession,or work in closed institutions:prisons,camps,hospitals,nursing homes,and other similar institutions.This often indicates work in security agencies,intelligence,counterintelligence,or membership in secret lodges,groups,or societies.

4)They like to sleep more than stay awake.

5)Gives the most severe karmic tests(secret enemies,accidents,betrayal).

[tic-tacbergerac]

I posted 10,379 times in 2022

That's 10,379 more posts than 2021!

371 posts created (4%)

10,008 posts reblogged (96%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@milfygerard

@alinnsurana

@aropride

@thisismyideaofhumor

@revengeromance

I tagged 736 of my posts in 2022

#mcr - 82 posts

#my show - 35 posts

#am gonnae kill masel - 31 posts

#gerard way - 27 posts

#mcrtacoma - 24 posts

#mcr tacoma - 11 posts

#you will reblog - 10 posts

#i am experiencing an effect.... - 9 posts

#ray toro - 8 posts

#i am experiencing an effect... - 8 posts

Longest Tag: 137 characters

#but like all around it was meant from the start to be a silly little bubblegum comic story about a happy couple who live in a world where

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

I was scrolling through Instagram and this photo (from Panda @subliminal.vamps) made me stop and think. Frank's wrist isn't 100% better.

Frank has ice (possibly heat? please correct me) packs strapped to his wrist and shoulder. He's probably in a good amount of pain, and playing guitar for 2 hours a night on top of whatever practicing and sound checking they do probably doesn't make him hurt less.

I'm not Frank, I'm not his family member or friend, so I don't know what he's dealing with beyond what he chooses to share. But as a fan of his band and him as a person, I'm grateful that such a talented and dedicated musician is willing to put himself through discomfort or pain for the love of his craft and his fans. That means a lot.

145 notes - Posted October 4, 2022

#4

reblog if volcano shake em up is your favorite mcr song

220 notes - Posted September 22, 2022

#3

Fans and Friends who are Stuck in Vegas: Here are Some Fun Things to Do!

I'm crushed for all of you who got tickets to WWWY and are now stuck in the Vegas area with no show. That's so awful and heartbreaking, especially if you've traveled a long way or were looking forward to seeing your favorite band for the first time. Big hugs to you all. Here are some things to check out that you may enjoy. All activities listed are clean-and-sober friendly and cost less than $100 per person. I'll list the most recent pricing I can find, but keep in mind that these things change.

National Atomic Testing Museum! Learn about America's history with nuclear weapons testing. $24 per person, book online through their website. Open 9a-5p.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area! Be careful here with the wind advisory today, but it may be good tomorrow. You can hike, picnic, take the scenic drive, and more! It's beautiful. Probably a $35 entrance fee per car. Timed tickets required for the scenic drive.

You Can Rent A Backhoe And Fuck Around, No I'm Not Kidding. Individual digs from $25, group digs from $175.

Area 15 Immersive Experience! Passes start at $49 per person. This is SO COOL, highly recommended. You can guide yourself through, but there are also formal tours.

The Mob Museum. General admission $30 per person. Learn about the impact of organized crime on American history and society today. Thousands of artifacts and some pretty cool exhibits!

Please reblog and add more activities! I tried to include unique, interesting experiences that had booking available TODAY, 10/22 and TOMORROW, 10/23.

407 notes - Posted October 22, 2022

#2

yeah I support LGBT

L - lesbian icon frank iero

G - gerard way

B - 🅱️ikey

T - Ray Toro's Trans Rights Charm Bracelet

430 notes - Posted August 25, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

I'm a wildlife biologist and he's the red panda I'm monitoring on my trail cam

1,256 notes - Posted October 6, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[americangirlstar]

random american girl doll facts nobody cares about (as of june 2021)

Of the 46 dolls, only 8-9 have had non-nuclear families [ 2 with a dead mom and 3 if you count Emily, whose mother was only dead in the movie, 2 with a missing dad, 2 orphans and 2 with divorced parents, 1 of which has a stepfamily ]

The alphabet letter with the most dolls’ first names under it is M with 7 dolls, soon to be 9 when the World By Us line drops 

10 dolls (~22%) have first names ending with a, soon to be 12 (~26%)

18 dolls (~39%) have first names ending with the “ee” sound (ex: Emily, Melody)

We have no dolls with first names that start with the following letters: d, h, o, p, q, u, v, w, x, y

We have no dolls living in following states: alabama, alaska, arizona, arkansas, connecticut, delaware, georgia, idaho, indiana, iowa, kansas, kentucky, maine, maryland, mississippi, montana, nebraska, nevada, new hampshire, new jersey, north carolina, north dakota, oklahoma, oregon, rhode island, south carolina, south dakota, texas, utah, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, wyoming (had to do my research for this beauty)

~46% of the dolls have dogs either in their stories or collection- this includes Luciana’s robotic dog; in comparison, only ~15% have cats, and that’s only if we include Kira’s foster kittens

[gogosqueezebih]

marlee sigertem - chapter one: her beginnings

i decided with the new sims 4 update completely breaking my game that i would return to the love of my life, the sims 3. 

i intended to start a new legacy challenge and play with aspects of the game i never really fully played with before. 

however, i did not intend to fall in love with a legacy family so early on. 

so here goes. 

marlee sigertem moved to strawberry acres with a couple grand to her name, she moved in to a quaint 2 bedroom 1 bathroom house. the second bedroom used for her home office, of course. 

see, the thing with marlee is she’s a closeted commitment issues sim, which meant specifically for my gameplay, she didn’t have the commitment issue trait BUT i did not intend to allow her to commit to relationships, and she didn’t seem to mind. 

marlee’s lw is leader of the free world - she wants to reach lvl 10 of the political career. and she is very much so hell bent on completing it. 

she went to the city hall to apply for her first job and was successful in snagging the podium polisher position. after she got the job, there was a protest going on, that she - of course - spontaneously decided to join.

another thing about marlee is she specifically moved to strawberry acres because she loves rural towns, and she knew that the town had an active horse and equestrian community, which was good for her, as she’s an equestrian.

so obviously, she just HAD to adopt a foal. 

that we decided to name delilah. 

she immediatly grew a strong bond with delilah, as she was abandoned by her mother and marlee filled the hooves of that role. - hah, im so funny -

some time goes by and she meets a beautiful sim named saebyeok park who marlee thought was just stunning, but saebyeok is a female sim, and marlee wasn’t gay... right? 

a bit more time goes by and saebyeok begins dating a male sim - and she falls pregnant pretty soon after. (thanks NRASS)

so, naturally, marlee began to presue saebyeok’s brother, jiyun park, who lives with his sister. they had a fling, and tussled in the sheets a bit too risky, and boom, marlee was pregnant. 

which she was thrilled about, and so was jiyun apparently because they became an official item.  

but see, marlee was still just starting out in her career, by this time, she was lvl two of her career. so naturally, she had a miscarriage and was heartbroken, but the passion for her goals didn’t stop. 

her and delilah made fourth and third place in a few races. 

but while she was drinking a coffee at her local cafe, she overheard some college students talking about sims university which made her reconsider going to college. 

so, with only being able to afford a single term worth 6 credits. she was off to sims university and had a friend watch over delilah while she was gone. 

when she got there, she went to the student meet up and decided to lead a protest just outside the building regarding nuclear war. marlee is an eco-friendly sim and hates how sims continue to ruin their world. she led a very successful protest.

later, at a bowling alley, she met a sim who caught her eye, heik okimos, a sophomore in the arts.

of course, she just had to get to know him, DESPITE still having a boyfriend at home, that she had rolled a wish for to MARRY. lmao, poor jiyun. 

so, she did, she hanged out with him and they decided to watch the stars together in a parking lot of all places.

homegirl really went for it, and i couldn’t blame her. 

heik’s face though. x)

stop, they’re so cute. 

naturally, they became romantically involved and stayed as just that, friends but with benefits - those benefits being just kissing, and dates, heik has RESPECT for himself -

- when i say, i fell in love with heik, i mean it. - 

a bit into the term later, marlee was in a class that had her use a the reporting object thing, naturally as she’s a communications major. 

her sorority sister, chloe mendenhall caught her eye. - which i’ll admit she’s not the most attractive sim in the vanilla university life game but i had a few default skins and replacement hairs that had just spontaneously made her so pretty in my game. - 

she did the interview interaction and got to know chloe. 

- why is she so pretty? - so naturally after class was over, marlee joined chloe for a small picnic in the student square, because she was starving. 

after a nice lunch, marlee decided to get to know chloe a bit more, and had began to shoot her shot, college is the time to experiment after all. 

- she WENT for it. lmao -

- but apparently chloe didn’t mind. -

- they became romantically involved, which we know what that means to marlee, but maybe chloe thought differently. lmao during all of these flings, marlee was still calling the man that she wanted to marry, every night. like... girl come on. -

sometime passed and marlee decided to experiment more... with chloe. 

*ahem* 

- so, marlee starts questioning her sexuality more, but still, doesn’t think she’s gay. she was severely comp-heting guys. -

so, the end of the term was coming so she began to buckle down in between her flings. 

and when the results of her finals grades were in, she was relieved to find out she had an A, passed her exam with flying colors, and was on the dean’s list. 

so naturally, she did a keg stand with heik to celebrate. 

- but the end of the term came, and the rumors of marlee’s reputation came spinning back to chloe, who was caught of guard, she thought what her and marlee had was special. -

chloe accused marlee of cheating, and was devastated while marlee was confused, she had thought the terms of their relationship was pretty clear. 

chloe called the entire relationship off, they were no longer friends or romantically involved. 

marlee was pretty much unbothered though, lol. 

but now, it was time to go home. 

not that she was ready to face jiyun, the man who was entirely faithful to her, who she wanted to marry, but she had to. 

to be continued... 

[tilbageidanmark]

Movies I watched this Week #93

3 Faces, my third from Jafar Panahi (after ‘Taxi and ‘The year of everlasting storm’). He and a famous Iranian actress play a version of themselves, as they drive to a remote village in Northern Iran, after receiving a desperate suicide video from a young girl. Created on the sly, in spite of a 20-year ban from film making by the regime, it’s a primitive and touching road movie into a very rural area, giving a real feel of nights out in the boonies. The trailer. 7/10.

🍿

Visconti + Bogarde X 2:

🍿 The Most Beautiful Boy in the World, a thoughtful, new Swedish documentary about Björn Andrésen, who played 14-year-old Tadzio in Visconti's 1971 ‘Death in Venice’. He was an introspective orphan who lived with his grandmother, and was thrown into insane international fame when the film became a hit. Not only Dirk Bogarde, but Visconti himself and the whole production team were gay, and he was exploited as a gorgeous twink trophy. The rest of his life was colored by melancholy and sorrow. 8/10.

🍿 The Damned, his deviant Nazi-porn melodrama, A Krupp-like family sage, a-la ‘Dallas’ and ‘succession’, but with incest, homosexuality, child rape, and an orgy of perspiration and swastika flags. Tedious Götterdämmerung of greed, decadence, power struggles and hatred in a garish, kitschy 2.5-hour-long faux-historic soap opera. 2/10.

🍿  

“...Une carafe de rouge?...”

From the opening score of The Man on the Train, its’ clear that it’s a quiet French Neo-Western: Laconic bad boy Johnny Hallyday, dressed in a leather-jacket, comes to Annonay, a sleepy provincial town, planning to rob a bank there. Retired old teacher Jean Rochefort invites him to stay at his large house after they meet by chance at the local pharmacie. As they spend a few days together, they both become envious of each others life: The bank robber wants to retire into a life of peace, and the teacher who never ventured to do anything exciting dreams of breaking the rules just one time before he dies. 7/10.

🍿  

2 X Young Treat Williams:

🍿 Laura Dern played a restless, sexually-curious 15-year-old teenager in Smooth Talk with such conviction, it’s frightening. This adaptation of a Joyce Carol Oates' short story paints a subtle psychological portrait by Joyce Chopra, a first time female director. But then it turns into a terror-inducing third act, when the sinister ‘Arnold Friend’ coerces her into coming with him for a drive in his convertible. I literally had to stop it numerous times, because I couldn’t handle to see what happens next. 8/10

🍿 ...”The draft is white people sending black people to make war on the yellow people to defend the land they stole from the red people...”

I clearly remember the controversies when non-American Miloš Forman adapted the youth anthem Hair into a movie: so many years after the peace movement died, made by a Czechoslovakian, he changed the performance and the sounds of most of the songs. But the film was then - and is still now - a terrific musical, and a testimony for certain hippy ideals, anti-establishment and anti-war, pro-drugs, sex and Rock 'n' Roll. Terrific dance choreography by Twyla Tharp, breakthrough roles for John Savage and Beverly D'Angelo, and unforgettable Nicholas Ray as the general. (Poster Above) - 9/10.

🍿  

The Aviator's Wife, my 2nd of Éric Rohmer’s “Six Comedies and Proverbs" (After ‘Pauline at the beach’). A charming story about love of some young Parisians. 7/10.

🍿    

Hiroshima X 2:

🍿 “Duck and Cover” - The Atomic Cafe (1982), a chilling documentary without any narration, made entirely out of nuclear weapons propaganda from the Cold War on the subject of nuclear warfare. It demonstrates how misinformation and propaganda was used by the US government and popular culture to accept and ease fears about nuclear warfare among the American public.

🍿 "...You saw nothing in Hiroshima”...

It’s been 40 years since I last saw Alain Resnais’s first painful feature Hiroshima mon amour and I was even reluctant to try it again, but within five minutes, it overwhelmed me deeply, with sadness and beauty washing over me. This poetic one night of love and remembrance between the French actress and Japanese architect was my best film of the week.

🍿  

2 by director Aneesh Chaganty and writer Sev Ohanian:.

🍿 My 4th re-watch in 5 months: Searching, a perfect thriller about dad John Cho frantically looking for his missing daughter. This was Chaganty‘s directorial debut. It was created brilliantly in a ‘Screenlife’ format (where the whole movie occurs on computer screens, smartphones, browser windows and surveillance footage). But what I loved most is the relationship between the father, teenage daughter and the pretty dead mom. 10/10.

I’m very sad to read that they just finished shooting “Searching 2″!

🍿 Their next suspense film was Run, about an isolated, disabled teenage daughter who discovers that her mom is keeping her hostage. It shared some similar traits: with ‘searching’: The bond between parent and child, the claustrophobic scope of just the two of them occupying one house. But it ended with Sarah Poulsen becoming a ‘Misery’-type crazy mother, and the plot twists turned tired and unconvincing. 3/10.

There’s a nice little Easter Egg, with a photo of the "fish_n_chips" model from the previous film on the University of Washington brochure.

🍿 

2 scores by Bernard Herrmann:

🍿 "The death of a beautiful woman is, unquestionably, the most poetical topic in the world..."

78/52: Hitchcock's Shower Scene refers to the number of setups (78) and the number of cuts (52) in the 3-minute ‘Psycho’ scene, (which took one quarter of the film’s four-week shooting schedule). A good documentary. My usual pet peeve: Stop drowning your film with suggestive background music lasting 100% of the time! Especially when you analyze how integral the sparse original score was to the terror inflicted. 

🍿 Living Doll, episode 126 of the original ‘Twilight Zone’, mentioned in the documentary above. Telly Savalas plays a mean stepfather who is being terrorized by a murderous doll, Chucky’s original inspiration.

🍿 

2 more with Buster Keaton:

🍿 The Chemist is a 1936 American short talkie featuring Buster Keaton as crazy inventor Elmer “Happy” Triple. It was one of the 17 films he did for the small Educational Pictures. 3/10.

🍿 After writing a play titled ‘Play’ and a song called 'Song’, nonsensical Irish absurdist Samuel Beckett titled his only film script Film. The 21-minute experimental, silent short, starring the nearly-dying Keaton, was subject to extensive analysis and many in-depth interpretations. But I didn’t enjoy it. 🍿  

“..These people are primitive...” My second by Jacques Tourneur (After ‘Out of the past’) I Walked with a Zombie. It’s a strange, atmospheric horror film that was analyzed at great length for its use of Haitian Voodoo, mental illness, bondage and racism. But in my one viewing I didn’t grasp it.

🍿  

The Adventures of Tintin, was a 1991 Canadian TV series of 39 episodes based on Hergé’s classic bande dessinée. It retained its distinct ‘Ligne claire’ style of clear strong lines with no hatching, while eliminating some of the racist stereotypes of the original albums. I only watched the two parts of ‘The Crab with the Golden Claws’, which marked the first appearance of the alcoholic Captain Haddock. (In the 70′s when i lived with Ester and David, I collected all of Tintin’s books for him, and read it to him many times.)

🍿 

My first exposure to Polish director Walerian Borowczyk, who worked in France during the 60′s to 80′s, and was called “A genius who happened to be a pornographer”. Immoral tales (1973) is his infamous anthology of four pornographic fantasies. Art house excuse for debauchery a-la Marquis de Sade, which include graphic stories about blowjobs, masturbation, bestiality and incest. Paloma Picasso, Pablo’s daughter, stars as a naked countess who bathes in the blood of virgins in order to gain eternal youth. Boring male gaze - 2/10.

🍿

Another “So-bad-I-couldn’t-finish-it-film”: The Decline, a Canadian survivalist camp thriller. As we morbidly wait for total societal collapse, tales about Preppers sound appealing. But this amateurish, predictable debut was awful - I lasted 45 minutes.

🍿

(My complete movie list is here)