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9tzuyu · 3 years

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the art of delicate hands – pt. i

[ wandanat. ]

College AU.

Multiple part series ;

↳ snippets of their relationship and how I perceive them.

sumary:

wanda doesn't like to talk very much, only to her brother (and sometimes her lovely redheaded girlfriend).

notes:

if anyone international is reading this, ASL is shortened for american sign language (language of the hands).

this is a revised and edited version from when i wrote it on ao3 in 2018.

The only person that knew was Pietro. It was her little secret, and she could only hope that no one now would find out. She knew she shouldn't be ashamed, it was nothing to be ashamed over. Unsurprisingly however, it became her biggest insecurity – years of relentless bullying ensued that.

Wanda was always anxious. When she was seven she began experiencing panic attacks. The metallic taste of blood in her mouth became familiar over time as her panic attacks worsened.

All because she was mute and didn't feel comfortable to speak to anyone, including her parents. The only person Wanda felt comfortable enough to talk to was her brother (you could say that's because they're twins).

A doctor in Sokovia mentioned to Wanda's parents that therapy may help, that it may get her to speak more than four words a week. So her parents moved her when she was 16 and hoped for the best.

Within a year and a half Wanda was able to develop a clear understanding of American Sign Language. Eight months into the move and Wanda's parents had given up on Wanda ever talking, something that she took personal. They didn't catch on to English as quick as the twins did, their native language stuck closer than expected. Pietro didn't mind learning English quickly as he wanted to fit in school, and he also didn't mind studying ASL to communicate with Wanda on a deeper level.

American high school wasn't much better than her hometown. People talked, whispered and gossiped about her in class, muttered hurtful things about her appearance and the way she carried herself; a shy, quiet, timid girl. The worst part of it was when they mocked her for using a language that was supposed to feel safe for her. Pietro always came to her rescue, shooing people away, reminding them that she's his sister. The silver haired boy had no problem fitting in, it was only when they were apart did people tease the younger brunette.

When their parents died, Wanda took the brunt of the emotional attack it had on the twins. She'd been sitting in the backseat of the car, earbuds in, with her music volume at maximum capacity. Her father had tried to tell her to turn down the music while her mother rest in the passenger seat, window down with her eyes closed. When Wanda didn't hear her father, he reached over, eyes off the road, and tapped her. The second she registered his touch a semi-truck hit her father's door. In a matter of minutes Wanda and Pietro both were left alone to fend for themselves.

Putting the blame on herself only caused her to shut down further. It took over a year for Wanda to speak to Pietro again.

But as per usual, the twins stuck together and finished high school. The only difference was that they lived in foster care, they belonged to the state, up for grabs if anyone wanted them. That came to an end six months into their stay. The foster family proposed the idea of adoption, they had no problem in taking care of the twins for the rest of the time being – or, if they wanted, every day after as well.

At twenty, Wanda and Pietro eventually both went to college and shared a house with a bundle of other people on campus. The younger sibling even found herself a girlfriend within the group, her name being Natasha Romanoff.

Natasha didn't mind at all how little Wanda talked. She was curious, of course, but even before their relationship Nat never pushed her girlfriend into anything uncomfortable. Natasha could tell Wanda always made effort though, that's what drove the brunette into allowing herself a relationship.

When the redhead would sleep, Wanda would continuously practice signing. She'd sign songs and poems, movie scripts and books, everything she possibly could to improve herself. It was a very personal, in touch form of language for her.

Wanda had been with her girlfriend a little over a year and Natasha still didn't know all the unpleasant factors that came about her life. Wanda only told her just enough to get by, and she felt immensely guilty for that. Truth was she desperately wanted to tell Natasha, she just didn't know how. She'd thought about just signing something to her and hoping she would catch on, but figured that would be too much. Anxiety spiked in her chest and in her bones, and she was tired of feeling like a liar.

With a sigh, Wanda plopped down on her bed and pulled her phone out from her back pocket. Unlocking it, she went to her text messages and scrolled to Pietro's contact. When she was sure no one else was in the house, she tapped the call button and listened to the phone ring until Pietro answered.

"You know I'm in the other room, right? You literally could've called my name." He greeted, accent heavy through the speaker.

Wanda giggled as she ran her fingers through her hair. You're safe. Speak, it's okay. She reminded herself.

"Yeah, but are you free?"

"Always."

"Can you come here? I need to ask you about something." Pietro gave out a loud, playful sigh but walked to her room, disconnecting the call on his way in. "What is it, my dear sister? What could possibly be troubling you here on this day? Is it that scruffy redhead?" He smirked arrogantly but sat down in the desk chair across from Wanda, not failing to notice how she rolled her eyes.

"She doesn't have scruffy hair and you know it. It's soft, gentle – and much less damaged than your shit show of an excuse for bleached hair."

"Whatever you say, little chaos."

Wanda groaned, "Why must you still call me that?"

"It suits you well."

There was a shared moment of silence between the two before Pietro spoke up. "What was it you wanted to ask me about?" A small frown was plastered on Wanda's face and Pietro found himself wanting to know even more now. Wanda waited another minute before finally answering. "Should I tell her? You know, about..."

A huge smile took over her brother's face. He was ecstatic that she wanted this for her girlfriend. "Of course you should! I really think she'd be interested to know more about you – y'know, since you don't ever tell her anything."

"I tell her things!" Pietro shook his head, "Does she even know your birthday?" Wanda nodded and turned herself away from him. "I just don't know how to do it. I mean it'd be kind of heavy just taking her out to dinner only to tell her my deepest, darkest secret afterwards. I'm scared she'll hate me, Pietro! And I've never even spoke. More than like, 12 sentences all at once with her!" He softened knowing how much trouble one past had caused his little sister. "Write her a note?" He suggested, but she shook her head. "I want to tell her, not write her."

Right before he was about to speak again there was a knock at the door. The pair looked up to find Natasha standing in the doorway smiling down at the two. "Am I interrupting?"

Wanda froze while Pietro arrogantly raised his eyebrow and announced his answer. "No. We were just finished talking."

Confusion was written on Nat's face and she stood there until Wanda shook her head and muttered a small "No," giving her the signal that she could come in.

"I'll be in the other room if you need me." Pietro got up, despite Wanda's silent plea for him to stay. He gave her a thumbs up and left the room.

Natasha closed the door and laid next to Wanda, wrapping her arms around the younger woman. "You okay?" Wanda nodded in reply and Natasha knew not to push. For now she'd just keep an eye on her, reassuring her that she could talk to her if need be.

Over the next few days Wanda seemed to be doing better. She was supposed to go to a party with Nat, but opted out to study for classes instead.

"Be safe," she whispered and planted a small kiss on Natasha's lips.

Everyone else went to the same party, leaving the house to just Wanda. She sent out a group message telling everyone to text her or ring her (at the very most importance) if they needed a ride. Wanda didn't drink much anyways so she didn't mind being the designated driver of the bunch. And besides, she didn't mind having some time alone, it gave her the absence of the boys so she could study.

However, after over an hour or so of studying Wanda was beginning to feel stressed. Her nerves were building and she could feel her jaw clench.

She needed a break.

With a small sigh, she got up and connected her phone to her speaker. After scrolling and clicking on her song of choice, Wanda found herself signing the words to a Modest Mouse song.

Green eyes closed as her hands began to string along with the words of the song. It was rather fast paced, but Wanda was able to keep up fairly well thanks to years of practice. Lyrics flowed through her fingertips and in the palms of her hands, her stress levels immediately decreasing as she went on.

Unbeknownst to her, however, Natasha was standing in the doorway watching her every move. She was absolutely mesmerized by Wanda's hand motions. Her finger spelling was very fast, and Natasha was curious to know how long Wanda had known ASL.

When the song was over, Wanda stopped her music and moved herself so she could study again. She grabbed her pens, pencils and highlighters, along with her textbook while her back faced Natasha.

"I didn't know you could sign." Natasha commented. A mix of shock and uneasiness quickly took over the calm look on Wanda's face.

It wasn't until then when Tasha put two and two together. She quickly rushed over to her girlfriend, and carefully engulfed her into a hug.

"Hey, no, I think it's really cool. You don't have to worry now, your secret's safe with me." Wanda began to shake in her grasp, tears forming in her eyes. She backed out of the embrace and against the wall, pulling her knees to her chest.

"No, you're supposed to hate me, laugh at me. You're supposed to be anything but be cool with it." Natasha tilted her head, "Is that what they did to you?"

Wanda peaked out from underneath her arms, the confirmative nod sent Natasha's heart well beyond sinking. She’d never understand how people could willingly be so cruel.

"I'm here to listen, not judge." Her words softly echoed in Wanda's mind, and she watched Natasha carefully to see if she was lying. When she didn't make any remarks or snide comments, Wanda knew it was safe. Accent heavy, she began letting words slip from her mouth.

"I have really bad anxiety when it comes to talking, so I just don’t. Asl makes it easier to communicate, but growing up I was often teased for it. You’re really good at reading me without it, so I hid it from you. Guess their words still haunt me...” Wanda finished, giving Natasha a little more insight on her life.

Natasha moved closer to her girlfriend, bringing Wanda’s shaking body into her embrace. She then kissed the top of her forehead.

Wanda looked up to see Natasha thinking, her eyebrows scrunched together and she was chewing on her lip. She nudged her.

“I think it’s quite beautiful if you ask me.” Wanda cracked a smile and rest her head on Tasha’s shoulder. “Beauty comes from pain, I guess.”

But Natasha shook her head, “No, No, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Wanda nodded. She understood what Natasha was saying, she just didn’t believe it to be true when it came to herself. Nonetheless, she spoke the words, repeating the mantra so that maybe she could start to feel a belief in them.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

#wandanat #scarletwidow #scarlet witch x black widow #wanda x natasha #wanda maximoff x natasha romanoff #wanda maximoff x reader

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grailfinders · 3 years

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Fate and Phantasms #90: Nero Claudius (Bride)

I don’t normally redo builds unless I really mess things up (sorry again Liz) because there’s still like 200 servants and counting left to go, but Nero was really insistent that she get another build. This time we’re doing Nero Bride, who’s like Nero, but in a bridal gown.

If you don’t want to read through the whole spiel to find out what’s different, I’ll break it down right now:

There’s fewer charming spells since you’ve found the person you want to spend your life with, but in exchange you get more healing and buff spells to help them out.

We also take a quick dip into Cleric for even more party helping magic and features, but you’ll still be able to get ninth level spells if you want to make the Golden Theater.

Check out Nero’s build breakdown below the cut, or her character sheet over here!

Next up: Root (Honorific)

Race and Background

We’ve already covered Nero, but for the sake of not making you go back to a different build we’ll repeat ourself. You’re a Human Noble, giving you History and Persuasion proficiency. Since this is a variant of the normal Nero we’ll also make you a Variant Human, getting +1 Charisma and Wisdom along with Religion proficiency. You can’t always count on someone being their to officiate your wedding, so you have to be able to do it yourself. You also pick up the Lucky feat, which lets you roll an extra d20 to an attack, ability check, or saving throw and use either roll. You can also use this when an enemy attacks you as well, but all uses are limited to three times per long rest. Honestly it’s kind of weird regular Nero didn’t have this, but there’s no sight like hindsight.

Ability Scores

Your highest score should be Charisma like always; you’re the darling rose of Rome, and you also have mild reality-warping abilities based on how you think the world works. Second highest is Dexterity- you need to be able to pull off fancy swordplay and survive fights in a dress. Third is Wisdom- a good marriage is based in honesty, trust, and open communication, and that’s all wisdom. Also we need it for multiclassing. After that is Constitution, because we’re not dumping that. Your Intelligence isn’t super high, you’re still Nero, but we’re dumping Strength. Lifting weights is for other people.

Class Levels

1. Bard 1: Starting off as a bard nets you proficiency in Dexterity and Charisma saves, as well as three skills of your choice. Grab Performance and Acrobatics for your stage presence, and Animal Handling for your riding skill. You also gain Bardic Inspiration, a number of d6 per long rest equal to your charisma modifier that you can hand out as a bonus action to nearby creatures. They can then add this die to one attack, save, or check that they make within the next 10 minutes.

You also get to cast Spells using your Charisma as a casting ability. Pick up Friends, Animal Friendship, and Charm Person for your prerequisite charm spells, Cure Wounds to heal yourself or your significant other, Prestidigitation for minor magical effects, and Unseen Servant so you don’t have to lug your own bags around.

2. Bard 2: Second level bards are a Jack of All Trades; even if you’re not good at something, you think you are, and that’s enough reason to add half your proficiency to checks that don’t already use it. You also learn a Song of Rest, adding 1d6 to healing done on short rests. That’s a little less in character, but it’s free healing, don’t knock it. Also thanks to Tasha’s you get Magical Inspiration, allowing your inspiration to go just a bit further. Creatures can now use your inspiration die on healing spells or damage dealing spells, adding that roll to one affected creature.

Also, you’re so inspiring you evoke Heroism in one creature, making them immune to being frightened and giving them temporary hp each turn for up to a minute.

3. Bard 3: Third level bards pick a college, and of course you’re a bard of whis- just kidding, you’re still a Swords bard. This nets you the Dueling fighting style, as well as the ability to wield a scimitar. You also get Blade Flourishes, allowing you to spend bardic inspiration dice to deal extra damage an gain extra effects. A Defensive Flourish adds the roll to your AC until your next turn. A Slashing Flourish deals the extra damage to another nearby creature as well, and the Mobile Flourish pushes the creature away, and you can react to follow them. Everything you do is beauty, and now you can literally weaponize that beauty too.

As a bard you also get your first round of Expertise, which doubles your proficiency in two skills. Pick Performance and Acrobatics to perfect your public presence.

To go even further, you learn how to Enhance Ability, giving yourself or a special someone proficiency in one kind of ability checks for up to an hour. Also, if you choose Constitution checks they gain 2d6 temporary hp, Strength checks double their carrying capacity, and Cat’s Grace prevents falling damage from less than 20′.

4. Bard 4: Use your first Ability Score Improvement to bump up your Dexterity, increasing your sword skills and armor class. You also pick up the spells Mending and Lesser Restoration to help patch up the party, as well as your fancy outfit.

5. Bard 5: Our last level of bard before we dip enhances your Bardic Inspiration to d8s, and you become a Font of Inspiration, letting you regain inspiration on short rests instead of long ones.

This is also the first level you can use third level spells, and Intellect Fortress is a pretty smart pick. It gives you or a loved one resistance to psychic damage, plus advantage on intelligence, wisdom, and charisma saves.

6. Cleric 1: If we want a marriage, you might have to do it yourself. There’s no class that can do that better than a cleric. First level clerics can cast and prepare Spells with Wisdom. You also pick a divine domain; since the Unity domain has been deprecated, you’re now a Peace cleric. At first level you become an Implement of Peace, giving you proficiency in Insight, because it’s the only option you don’t already have.

You can also make an Emboldening Bond between a number of creatures equal to your proficiency bonus that are within 30′ of each other as an action. For up to 10 minutes afterwards, those creatures can add 1d4 to an attack roll, ability check, or saving throw once per turn if there’s at least one other bonded creature within 30′ of it. You can use this a number of times per long rest equal to your proficiency bonus. I guess Nero is just more progressive about polyamory than Artemis is, at least until I finish the updates.

For your spells, pick up Guidance and Resistance to add a d4 to a creature’s next check or save, respectively. Thaumaturgy has a lot of uses, but it also makes you three times louder. Not better, just louder.

You get another Heroism and Sanctuary for free, but I’d also check out Bless for bonuses on attack rolls and saving throws, Ceremony for the wedding abilities, and Command for another charming spell. I said we’d get less, not none.

7. Cleric 2: Second level clerics can Channel Divinity once per short rest in one of two ways. Turn Undead forces undead near you to make a wisdom save (8 + your wisdom modifier + proficiency) or be forced to run away from you until they can’t or they take damage. However, you can also make a Balm of Peace, using your action to move without provoking opportunity attacks, and moving within 5′ of another creature allows you to heal them for 2d6+ your wisdom modifier once per channel. You only have one healing skill so going on a spree like this is odd, but it’s not the worst way to break character.

8. Cleric 3: Third level clerics get second level spells. Aid lets you add extra HP to some creatures’ maximums, and Warding Bond lets you take half the damage for a creature for up to an hour. Sometimes love requires sacrifice.

For spells outside your domain, Spiritual Weapon gives you a cool glowing sword you can swing around without getting into danger, and Calm Emotions makes you a soothing source of relief, either ending a charming or frightening effect on a creature or making a hostile creature indifferent towards you for up to the duration. Love makes us all better people. Or generally less murderous people, at least.

9. Bard 6: Back in bard now, you get Countercharm, letting you spend an action to give advantage to a creature that’s being charmed or frightened. Why you wouldn’t just use calm emotions, I don’t know. Regardless, you also get an Extra Attack, letting you attack twice with the attack action.

Your sword might not be magical yet, but it can look magical thanks to Daylight. This spell creates a 60′ sphere of light that can be applied to an object you’re holding, like a sword, and it also destroys darkness made by spells of third level or lower.

10. Bard 7: Seventh level bards get fourth level spells, like Charm Monster. Sometimes you bring Manticores back to the house like they’re lost puppies, that’s just an adorable quirk of yours.

11. Bard 8: Use your next ASI to enhance your Charisma for more inspiration and stronger spells. You also pick up the spell Locate Creature. Look, putting a tracking device in your loved one isn’t creepy, it’s common sense. Don’t judge her.

12. Bard 9: Your Song of Rest improves to use d8 as well, and you can use fifth level spells like Greater Restoration, which can end effects like charms, petrification, curses, ability score reductions, and hp reductions.

13. Bard 10: The tenth level of bard increases your Bardic Inspiration to d10s, and you gain Expertise in two more skills. By this point you’re almost definitely married, so boost your Insight and Persuasion to make sure it’s a happy marriage.

You also learn Magical Secrets for the first time, two spells from any spell list. Pick up Haste to double a creature’s speed, add 2 to its AC, give it advantage on dexterity saves, and give it another action on each of its turns. After the spell ends it can’t move or take actions for a turn, but that’s a small price to pay. You also pick up Holy Weapon to turn your sword into an appropriately shiny magic weapon. For up to an hour, your weapon emits bright light, and deals extra radiant damage. You can also spend a bonus action to end the spell early and detonate the weapon, dealing even more radiant damage to creatures of your choice and possibly blinding them if they fail a constitution save.

Also grab Message. Communication is the heart of a good relationship, and now you can do it at long range.

14. Bard 11: Eleventh level bards get sixth level spells. Heroes’ Feast will help you cater your wedding without breaking the bank.

15. Bard 12: Use this ASI for more dexterity for higher damage and AC.

16. Bard 13: Thirteenth level bards see their Song of Rest grow to a d10, and they can use seventh level spells. Mirage Arcane lets you alter the terrain in a 1 mile square, and add structures where none are present, like, say, a golden theater. The illusion includes tactile elements, so it’s hardly even an illusion at this point. The big requirement is that you can’t radically change the terrain’s shape, so no flattening out part of a mountain to lay your theater on.

17. Bard 14: Fourteenth level swords bards can use a Master’s Flourish, replacing their inspiration die with a d6 to save on uses. There’s now no drawback to flourishes, so use them as much as you’d like!

You also get another round of Magical Secrets. Since this version of Nero could only exist in a dream, the Dream spell is a logical fit, letting you enter another creature’s dreams to either send them a message or give them a nightmare, dealing psychic damage and ruining their sleep. You also get Steel Wind Strike, to let you dramatically teleport around the battleground before everything explodes into blood behind you.

18. Bard 15: At fifteenth level your Bardic Inspiration maxes out at d12, and you learn eighth level spells. Glibness makes you even more charming than you already are, making your minimum roll for a charisma check always 15, and it’s impossible to magically telling if you’re lying. You know that whole thing about openness and honesty I said earlier? Maybe that’s not true. The real secret to marital bliss is lying well.

19. Bard 16: Use your final ASI to maximize your Charisma for the strongest spells and the most Inspiration you could possibly hand out.

20. Bard 17: Our capstone level gives you another boost to your Song of Rest; now it also uses a d12. You also get a ninth level spell- Foresight. This gives you or a willing creature advantage on all attacks, checks, and saving throws, immunity to being surprised, and attacking creatures have disadvantage for the duration, 8 hours with no concentration.

Pros

You have a flair for the dramatic, and if your DM allows for creativity, you’ll be doing very well at the table. Be the star you were always born to be!

You’re very charming. With a maxed out charisma, Glibness, and plenty of spells to help out when your natural skill fails you, you’ll get your way most of the time.

You’re also very supportive of the rest of the party. With healing along with buffs like enhance ability, haste, foresight, and bless, your backup will be almost as amazing as you are.

Cons

Most buffs and charming spells require concentration, and with your constitution you probably won’t make your save that often without help. It also means you have to choose between effects, whether you should keep a creature under control or help the rest of the party with a buff can be a difficult decision.

Your Wisdom also isn’t amazing, which means your non-healing effects from Cleric aren’t that powerful compared to your bard features.

All your damaging spells are either impractical for fighting or tied to your melee attacks, so your range is looking a little short. For all its benefits, your Imperial Privilege won’t let you fly after those harpies.

#Fate Grand Order #Nero Bride #D&D 5e #fgo #Fate and Phantasms

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kerwritesthings · 4 years

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South Of The Equator

Summary: Gestures of love are woven in the fabric of relationships, especially ones built around the priority of your love

Word Count: literally juuuuust shy of 5.8k

Warning: pining, love and fluff

Author Notes: Muse fell in love with this photo last week when Bre threw it out onto my dash, spit out stupid notes at midnight that night for it along with about 350ish words and then didn’t touch it until again yesterday evening where I proceeded to crank out about 5.8k in less than 24 hours. Oops?

This falls well later into the verse, like the latest I’ve taken it thus far. It just felt right to bring this into that part of the timeline with the premise and where the muse was taking this. Can be read as a standalone but diving into the verse and the masterlist would give a little bit more understanding.

It was not in the plans. Whatsoever. A whim. A lot of longing. A lot of missing connections. A lot of feeling that this was a sync you just wouldn’t be able to get. That scares the both of you, more than either of you will let on especially to the other. You both promise that this would be the longest stretch on this very last swing – something like 48 or 50 days depending on travel for both of you, that a somewhere between 12 and 14-hour plane ride at best for a long weekend made no sense. You’re in Bucharest when he starts the swing in Mexico. What was thought to be a few days off for him to come home to see you between the last Mexico show and the venture further south becomes non-existent, with surprise pop up concerts in both Costa Rica and Panama along with hoopla surrounding them on either side that the label drops last minute. You initially think you’d be able to make the last shows, but there was a potential work trip to Hong Kong hanging over your head, so you both agree not book anything.

Well, love makes you do some stupid and irresponsibly crazy things. When the Asia client pushes their timeline back, things change completely. Which is why you find yourself on the phone, trying to make arrangements while juggling 7 open browser tabs on your laptop at nearly 1am. This is what you do for each other. It’s been established. It’s been done for each other on numerous occasions throughout your relationship. But it’s never been something like this. This grand and involved.

“Up for a bit of a challenge?” you start. “What’s the actual schedule like between Buenos and Rio and Santiago?”

“Flip it around. Chile first. Then Buenos then Sao Paulo. Finish off in Rio,” Beatriz laughs. “Don’t book the wrong flight. Cause. This is where it’s going isn’t it? This bugger is so lucky to have you. He best appreciate this. He’s been whiny. More to Cez then me. Andrew too, but he trusts Cez more when it comes to you.”

“He’s not the only one,” you sigh. “Dee’s taken to sending me videos and photos of Tali every day before I call to bitch to her to try to ease my tension. We’ve done longer, when we first got together. This one though. We’re just not taking it well, either of us. It feels off. He can’t come to me, so I have to go to him.”

“There’s doubles now in Santiago, not just in Buenos and Rio. Only the one in Sao Paulo. Days off scattered through, but definitely some between the city jumps. Are you really going to try to do just a weekend down here?” she asks.

“Work remote if I can swing it. Then bank out on some time off. I’m due after the extra hours to lock in the Danish project and the haul to Bucharest for basically a 48-hour lookie loo from them with no commitments. Boss lady is great as long as my work gets done and I don’t pull the ask for ‘but my famous boyfriend’ very often, if at all,” you explain, poking away at the keys of your laptop.

“Ooh Denmark, so you going to get out for that one?” Beatriz questions. “Do you have a lam for this tour? Should we get you another?”

“I think I can, timing looks ok and I may be able to drag Shawn with me for once since it’s after all this hoopla,” you mutter, poking at Kayak and cursing. “I think I do, snag one just in case if it’s not too much trouble. It looks like Air Canada has a direct from Pearson to Santiago at 11 hours of flight time and an overnight red-eye. Bless it. No layovers. Less chance for him to even let on. Y’all can sneak me in on the flights between yeah?”

“Shawn is gonna shit you know this right?” she laughs. “I heard about your surprises you both have pulled on each other before, but this is something else. Duh girl, yes of course. He’d have you sit on his lap the whole flight if he had to, but we definitely have the room. Give me the flight info. I’ll make Cez book it. Do not even think about clicking that buy button that I know you’re hovering over.”

“Bea...” you begin.

“No, not hearing it. Cez blocked out travel budget for him to go home and you know that didn’t happen, so your flight there and then back with him at the end it is instead,” Beatriz interjects. “I’ll loop in C for sure. Maybe Andrew. Less folks who know the better, we need to keep this on lock down.”

“Beatriz, you’re the best. I owe you big time. I’m so glad you’re on this rag tag motley crew,” you thank her. “Let Cez know if he needs anything when he’s booking, if they don’t have it saved to just let me know.”

“Bottle of Bulleit and you finally spill the recipe for those kitchen sink bars the boys are always raving about and inhaling, we’ll call it even,” she deadpans. “But no really, I’m glad to help. As much as I tease that boy of yours, I’ve got a soft spot for him. We need to figure an epic reveal. It’s late. I’ll fire off a text to Cez and we’ll be on it tomorrow. Off with you. Night!”

You have a week between that call and your flight down to get all your things in order luckily. Work is understanding and accommodating, your boss practically sending out the out of office email for you after she hears your plans. He meanwhile has a few shows in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia ahead of him within that same time frame.

“There’s that face I adore,” you smile through FaceTime as you’re tucked in bed, two nights before you’re due to leave. “Hi you. How was the show? Where are you now?”

“Just out of the shower in the hotel and about to fall face first into bed, but I needed a dose of my pretty girl before I do,” he exhales, running a hand though his mess of wet curls. “Good, crowds down here are something else. Beyond the first time I swung through, on the last tour. And them singing back in perfect English still breaks my brain a little. Tired though. Looking forward to the break. Day break here, then like a half one off in Santiago before the last few shows. It’s so crazy to think we’re there already.”

“I can’t believe it’s almost over,” you murmur. “You did it baby, an entire circle of the globe. I’m beyond proud of you.”

“As much as I love this, I’m ready for just me, you and our bed. At least for a week straight, if not a few of them,” he chuckles. “Remind me of how tired I am now when I start to say I’m twitchy or bored, ok?”

“If you say so,” you say sleepily. “Just remember, I get to drag you with me on some my work trips next. Denmark for sure. Hong Kong perhaps since that’s still a moving target. Maybe Prague. Wanna be a silly romantic tourist with you for a bit. Just me and you”

“Always me and you, sweetheart. Go get some sleep. You’ve got work in the morning,” he whispers. “We can talk more tomorrow, promise.”

“You sure?” you fight back a yawn, eyes starting to flutter. “Can you sing to me though? Please? I miss you. Be like you’re here.”

He starts humming at first, the eases into a slowed down, Shawn-esque version of Sam Smith’s Latch. You want to stay awake to hear the whole thing, but he sounds like he’s there singing it right into your ear while he’s got your back against his chest. It’s so pretty, easy and dream like that you drift off in moments. He watches you for a few minutes after he finishes the song, making sure you’re truly asleep. Plus, he just wants to feel like he’s next to you in bed.

“Goodnight and sleep well, baby,” he whispers before disconnecting from FaceTime, a small smile slipping across his lips.

“He still has no clue by the way, so you’ve done a bang-up job,” Cez explains as he rings you while you’re in the car on the way to Pearson. “You’re still running on time from what we checked so you’re good. We’ve got everything square. Bea will come snag you from the airport, you’ll have time to hit the hotel, she’ll have the extra room key for you so you can get some actual rest and then get ready. Figure we’ll grab you while he’s doing Q&A. Do you want to surprise him before the show? After?”

“During?” you laugh, leaning your head back against the headrest as the car makes its way down the 401. “Maximum effect. Con would be on my side too you know, epic footage.”

“Of course, you do,” he retorts. “I should have known. Don’t forget, I’m on your side too. I’m glad this worked. I know it’s been a long stretch. For the both of you. I’ve seen it wear on him, but he’s put up a good front minus a few nights where he ends up with me until he needs to get to sleep, just needing someone who understands to talk to.”

“I’m glad he has you, that we both have you. You are a gift, Cez, really,” you reply as the car slows to ease up to the terminal. “I’m just about to hop out. I’ll text you and Bea when I land in the morning, customs will probably take a bit to get through. Thank you again.”

“Fly safe, dear. Try to get some rest and we’ll see you tomorrow,” he responds.

Check in was easy, of course they went above and beyond on the flight. You text Cez and Bea a photo of a cookie from the lounge with your ticket telling them they did not need to and thanking them. Cez responds first.

Again, you know if he found out we flew you like in row 24 on a flight that long, he would pitch a fit. I’m not up for a Shawn fit this late into the last of the last legs of tour. Enjoy the space and the lay flat. Sunshine and that boy awaits you.

Beatriz chimes in next.

Label owes you and the pain in the arse, so enjoy it! Have one for me. I’ll be there for you tomorrow with bells on and a tea in hand. Cannot wait for this – so epic. You two are nauseatingly adorbs.

The flight wasn’t crowded thankfully and the room to stretch fully is a welcome bonus. You are able to wind down a lot easier than expected and get a decent amount of sleep especially given it was on a flight, lay flat or not. Despite an extra circle, you land only a few minutes past your initial arrival time, make it through customs quickly and thankfully your luggage is waiting for you once you’re done.

“There she is,” Beatriz calls out as you head out to the open concourse. “And in one piece too with all your bits and bobbles. Good, the boss won’t be angry. And as promised, your tea!”

“Which one?” you chuckle, snagging the iced chai before hugging her.

“I can handle Cez, your man though,” she rolls her eyes as you walk out to the sprinter van. “He tried you last night when we were coming back from dinner, couldn’t get through even though we all told him it was late. He got all sad puppy. You were just about taking off, so it made sense. If he only knew what today is bringing him. I’ll drop you at the hotel, sleep, shower, eat, do whatever. I’ll be round to grab you about 4.”

As soon as you step into his room, you are overwhelmed just by the sheer sense of being back in his space again, despite him not even being there at the moment. You drop your suitcase, strip and crawl immediately into his still unmade bed to surround yourself in the smell of him. Setting your alarm before you drift off, you curl yourself around his pillow and exhale. Only a few more hours and you’ll be able to wrap your arms around him instead of a goose down that carries whiffs of his scent. A deep breath, an inhale you hold just for a moment before letting it go carefully and you’re drifting away.

You wake shortly before the alarm and to a couple texts from Shawn.

Miss you pretty girl. Almost there.

FaceTime after the show tonight? Even just for a few, I can tuck you in from here again like the other night.

Saw this on the drive over before, couldn’t help but think of you.

It was a slightly angled photo out the car window, but it was of a park with a fountain surrounded by high bushes littered with flowers.

I wish I could press you into those blooms and kiss you. Would make such a pretty picture. Love you baby.

You will yourself not to cry. That sweet, sentimental boy of yours. You’ll have time, you need to make that happen tomorrow.

I miss you sweetheart, so much. Yes to tonight, I’d love a tuck in from you. We’re so close. Love you <3

A shower, some primping and a good battle with both your blow dryer and your travel steamer later, you’re finally ready to head out.

“He’s a lucky bastard this one,” Beatriz whistles before handing over your new credential as you slide the van door closed behind you. “Don’t you have any sisters you can send my way? Cousins?”

“Sorry Bea, only child,” you laugh, as the van pulls away. “Cousins are stateside and not your type.”

“He was happy to hear from you before. Stopped in the middle of sound check to look at his phone. Got all stupid smiley and googly eyed,” she rolls her eyes. “He’s so gone on you if it wasn’t so bloody sweet to see him so gushy, it would make me ill.”

“Just wait ‘till later. I should apologize now,” you explain.

“Why there’s no plans for post-show, dearie. We knew better,” she giggles. “Shawn’s not going to want to share.”

You can’t help but smile as you pass the park he sent you the photo of earlier, it’s prettier than his shot let on. You definitely have to go there tomorrow. From that point, it’s a windy way through the streets of Santiago to the arena.

“He should just be wrapping up,” Beatriz prattles, looking at her watch as you make your way through the bowels of the building. “Which is good, I can sneak you into Cez’s room without him sniffing about. You, he, Jake and Con still need to hash everything out yeah?”

“Kind of. It’s the fine tuning of details at this point,” you say, flipping the pass around in your hands before slipping it around your neck as you walk, still not fully grasping you’re going to see him as soon as you are. “It’s a matter of where to go in the pit during his walk up to stage where I won’t be spotted too easily, but also not be in the way of everything either. I think it’ll work, totally up to Jake though. Worse case, we’ll do it just before rally or he hits the stage. Better visuals, and Con will agree with me, but it’s Jake and Cez who have final call.”

“It’s brilliant, all of it. However, here is where I leave you for now,” Beatriz nudges you through the door into Cez’s makeshift office for the next two days. “Need to make sure the sound techs have everything. Fridge is stocked, so steal what you need. He should be back in a few. They’re due to be walking your man now. His room isn’t far, so stay put. I’ll let C know you’re here. Toodles!”

Shortly after you settle in on the couch, engrossing yourself in your inbox, you feel someone settle down next to you.

“Thank god you’re here, I cannot do the sad Shawn shit anymore,” Connor sighs, throwing an arm around your shoulder. “I love him like a brother but damn, this go has been a beast when he’s feeling it like that.”

“Hi Connor, I’ve missed you too Connor, it’s good to see you Connor,” you roll your eyes, pushing his arm off you with a poke.

“Yeah yeah, all that too,” he smiles, sliding his arm back into place and kissing your cheek. “It’s good to have you here, all that aside. Despite all that, missed you around these parts.”

“Considering Central America took away our long weekend together, with no warning. It’s just been a hard go this swing. For both of us. May just be the wear and tear of a tour this long finally hitting. Even with as much as we’ve made it a priority to stay more connected and grounded. You guys are lucky it’s the end and it didn’t happen in like the middle of Europe, or the US leg. Though that would have been easier to get to than an almost 11-hour flight,” you fight out.

“You’re too good for him you know?” he teases. “Remember, he has friends if you ever need to bail.”

“Not any of y’all that’s for sure. No way. And, it’s the other way around, Con,” you reply, poking at his knee. “So, you’ve seen the setup, what’s going to make the most sense?”

“We’re going to do whatever you want, missus,” Jake chimes in as the door shuts behind him and Cez. “Only thing I require is a hug.”

“I think that can be arranged,” you say happily, ducking around Connor to get to Jake. “Con, stop being in the way.”

“Thank you,” you murmur to Jake as he pulls you into an embrace.

“We should be thanking you,” he whispers hugging you tightly. “And seriously. We’ll make it all happen. Kid needs this as much as you do.”

You pull away, smiling. “Ok guys so here’s what I’m thinking. Let’s surprise him on the walk out.”

The details come together quickly as well as easily. You’re happy, the team is comfortable with it all. It also helps he’s not expecting a thing. Everyone’s on board.

“So,” Cez begins, rolling a bottle of water around in his hands as everyone else filters out. “Hop a flight on a whim in the states or Canada is one thing. Cross the pond, a little more effort, but doable. This is something else entirely, even for the two of you.”

“I don’t know why this one is so different; I wish I knew; believe me I do. It would have saved me an 11-hour flight,” you utter. “It’s not like we’ve not done it before. We got through this, worse even, when he went out on last leg of the last tour and I had no leverage to take time off to come out other than that last show. We were only together a little bit at that point.”

Cez smiles his all-knowing smile, looking down at your hands playing with your credential. “I think you do, somewhere in there. I think he does too, well I know he does.”

“What are you talking about?” you ask inquisitively. “We’re good, really good. Minus this blip and it’s just us being a little more emotionally wound together. More in the groove than we’ve ever been. It’s been great, actually.”

He smiles yet again, making you wonder even more, and picks up his hand pointing to a certain finger.

“No,” you shake your head.

He nods, still smiling. “You’re practically there already. We were honestly all surprised it didn’t happen before tour, or at break. Especially after Japan. I knew though not the holidays, it’s too cliché and not him, or you. He’s asked me a few things, more recently. Won’t give away more than that, but it kind of all makes sense. At least to me.”

“I just. Like. Shit Cez,” you sigh, looking down at the lam in your hands. “We’ve talked about it before, couple times. We want it, both of us. He’s it for me, and vice versa. He knows I’ll say yes. I’ve told him as much. But I’m also not that girl that needs the pretty on her hand to know where we stand in our relationship. He’s also not that overly possessive man who needs to prove he’s got me like that to the world, even in his crazy whirlwind of a life.”

“I think it’s both of you really ready for what’s next and this just all happens to be in the way right now. But, you’re here now, which not only is he going to be over the moon about, the rest of us are pretty happy as well. Not just because he’ll be in better spirits, it’s because we love you just as much too,” he states plainly. “You’re as much a part of this, a part of the family. I’m personally glad you’re here for these last few. This run’s been special, you should be here for the end of it.”

“Do not make me ruin my makeup, damnit,” you half laugh, half bite back a sob. “I’m so glad he has you, not just on the road, but in general. I know how much he loves you. I do, too.”

His phone pings rapidly.

“Ten-minute warning for fetching him. Let’s go get you out and set. Phil’s on you until Jake walks out with Shawn,” he states, reaching for his headset in one hand, for you with his other.

You carefully walk down the back hallway towards the stage together. Jake and Phil meet you at the back corner of the build out. Jake hands you off a fresh pair of earplugs.

“You’re going to need these,” he reminds you. “It’s his usual walk, so he won’t expect a thing. Especially seeing Phil at that junction of the barricade, once Phil gets the signal from me that we’re going, he’ll shift behind you so Shawn can spot you.”

You throw him a thumbs up as you wedge the plugs into place. Phil takes your arm in his, his other hand patting your forearm.

“Let’s go surprise him,” he says, leading you out to the pit.

For some reason, probably your conversation with Cez if you’re being honest with yourself, has your stomach set off with butterflies. You’ve not been like this since the early days of your relationship. Excited, always. Happy, without a doubt. Nervous though? No. You try to not shift about, instead closing your eyes to take in the moment. The crowd is loud, you can smell the remnants of the smoke machine test earlier lingering in the air.

Phil taps your shoulder, sliding you into place in front of him.

“He’s walking,” he mouths with a wink.

The house lights come down and the stage lights start to just warm. You exhale and lean back onto Phil slightly, whose hands come to rest comfortably on your shoulders. The opening video starts to roll and the lights hit the pit walk so you know you’ve got about 30 seconds at best before he comes into view. Phil pushes you forward just a touch just as you spot Jake and Shawn with Connor shuffling just behind to get the right angle for the surprise.

He’s in his pre-show zone, not taking in much around him. Jake nudges him though and his eyes shoot up. Shawn looks over towards you, taking a moment for things to register, and when it does his smile is as bright as you’ve seen. His eyes grow wide, he turns to Jake, who nods with a grin and then Shawn takes off in a sprint.

“Surprise!” you try to scream, but he’s already got you in his hold lifting you to swing you around.

“Tell me I’m not dreaming, please,” he utters in your ear before pulling you closer, finally getting you back on your feet.

You slide your hands from his shoulders, one to the nape of his neck fingering the wispy curls there, the other to nudge his one in-ear out.

“Not a dream, baby. Very much here, very much real. You got me for the rest of the run, love,” you say directly into his ear. “Go be my Rockstar. I’ll watch side stage, be there waiting for you after the show.”

You pop his in-ear back into place then cup his cheek, watching his eyes roll back slightly.

“I love you so damn much,” he yells before kissing you soundly. “I am so lucky you’re mine.”

Shawn rubs his nose against yours before sneaking in another kiss, then runs up to the stage with Jake on his heels. Jake winks as he passes, throwing a double thumbs up before Phil takes you towards the back staircase so you can set up on the rolling case you know is waiting for you.

The show is electric as always, but he’s got a special energy tonight. You can’t help but feel a bit happy as to probably being the reason why. He’s smiling, sweaty and disheveled, running back towards you in the break before the encore.

“You’re a mess,” you quip with a smile, handing him a bottle of water and a towel.

“Never minded that before,” he retorts back, running a hand through the mess of his hair after wiping his face down with the towel.

“Not the place Shawn Peter,” you say, shooing him away. “Go finish, I’m not going anywhere.”

He drops the water bottle down on the case next to you, stealing another kiss before bopping his way back out.

You hop off the case and head out towards the curtain line to get a better view. His encore covers have been something else this tour. He’s been leaning hard into Tom Petty’s Free Fallin’ and it’s a stunner, especially just him and the piano.

“I had a surprise tonight delivered to me just before the show, a really amazing one actually,” he begins as he settles into playing the piano. “So, if you all don’t mind, I’m going to play something a little special before I get into my last two songs.”

Once he hits the first few chords, your jaw drops immediately.

“You lift my heart up when the rest of me is down. You, you enchant me, even when you're not around. If there are boundaries, I will try to knock them down. I'm latching on babe now I know what I have found,” he sings and you can’t help but inch closer to the edge as far as you can go without being spotted or seen. “I feel we're close enough, I wanna lock in your love. I think we're close enough, could I lock in your love, baby? Now I got you in my space, I won't let go of you. Got you shackled in my embrace; I'm latching on to you.”

You didn’t expect this the other night, so you very much don’t expect it tonight. You can’t do anything but watch him, enamored and amazed. He sounds breathtaking. The whole song just gives you goosebumps, especially in a setting like this. Damn this boy.

“Thanks for indulging me tonight, Santiago,” he says and you can see the flush spreading across his cheeks, even from there. He immediately segues into Free Fallin’ to get his encore moving, before finishing completely with If I Can’t Have You.

He’s got a hold of your hands the moment he’s out of sight of the audience.

“Did you like it?” he asks, dipping his head down to kiss you, feather soft.

“Love it, love you,” you reply, dusting kisses across his knuckles. “Come on, let’s get you back there before they start to think we’re defiling a case on the stage.”

He chuckles, tangling his fingers deeper with yours before leading you towards his dressing room. As you hit the main hallway, most of the band and the crew are waiting there and start whooping and clapping the moment the two of you come into view.

“What the hell?” you question, as he holds your hand tighter trying to make your way down the hall. He shakes his head, cheeks pink as he bites his bottom lip.

“Hold up,” Jake stops you both just before the doorway to his room, arms crossing against his chest and a shit eating grin spread across his face. “Believe you owe this lady a thank you.”

“Hello, the song, on stage, the encore? In front of the whole damn audience,” he retorts, running his free hand through his curls before tugging you towards him and the door without getting you covered in post-show sweat. “Now I’d like to shower, get the heck out of here so I can spend some time with her. Without an audience.”

You can hear the snickers and wolf whistles, it’s your turn to flush. Jake shakes his head no.

“You know what you assholes, fine,” Shawn sighs before rolling his eyes.

“Don’t even with me kid,” Jake smirks.

“I know what you’re…” he trails off but tugs your hand, so you stand closer to him. “Shit. C’mere baby.”

The next thing you know he’s cupping your neck and kissing the breath straight out of you. Your hands fly up, one gripping his shoulder the other tangling in his hair. He pulls away first, just as breathless as you’re feeling.

“You all happy now? Can I please get into my room?” he asks.

Jake moves aside, patting him on the shoulder. He snatches your hand and tugs you into the room, shutting and locking the door behind you both.

“Do I even want to know?” you say, leaning back against the door as he toes off his boots.

“Grander the gesture, bigger the thank you,” he replies, stripping off his button down next, his tank and jeans follow. “They like to tease, you know this. Especially when you and I start getting the way we do. It’s all in good fun, but not when you pull the most epic surprise and I’ve run through a whole damn show. I haven’t seen you in how long and I still haven’t really held you or loved on you the way I want to.”

“Then you best go shower, sweetheart,” you tease. “You know feeling is mutual.”

He darts over to kiss you again, “Be right back.”

He’s quick, which you appreciate, and even more that he’s just in a pair of threadbare, low slung navy sweats when he heads back out to you. He drops the towel in his hand to snag yours, pulling you towards the couch. He flops down first and pulls you immediately down on top of him. He kisses your forehead before scooting you down so your head can rest comfortably on his shoulder. He smells fresh, clean, warm, like him and like home.

“Hi baby,” he murmurs against your lips before kissing you slowly and thoroughly. “Fuck, how I missed you. I can’t believe you’re here. I’m so damn happy that you’re here. You’re amazing you know that? How did you pull this off?”

“Once Hong Kong pushed timeline, I had a little wiggle room, but I wouldn’t be sure until Denmark signed off,” you explain, finger carefully tracing back and forth against his collarbone and shoulder. “I didn’t want to get either of our hopes up, so I didn’t say anything. Then like a week and a half ago? That night we just couldn’t get timing together I think you were in Panama still. I was up and cranky at stupid o’clock, said screw it. I knew I had some comp time due, had a little vacation time left, plus after Bucharest debacle on their part, they kind of owe me to boot. Called Bea, looped in Cez and voila.”

“You’re making it harder to even come remotely close to do for you what you do for me,” he presses his lips against your hair. “I’m so grateful for you.”

“There’s not a tally, sweetheart. We do for each other, you know this,” you remind him. “You and me, always right?��

There’s a knock on the door and jingling of keys, you go to move but Shawn holds you to him.

“Just gonna be C, we’re not doing anything. You stay put,” he wraps his arms around your waist and nuzzles your ear.

“Sorry kids, time to get a move on,” Cez calls out from the doorway. “Can I come in? Are you at least PG?”

“It’s cuddling man, that’s all,” Shawn barks out with a laugh as you bury your head into his neck.

“You’ve got about 10 minutes to get yourselves together before the sprinter gets here,” he reminds you both. “We’ve got a curfew in the building overall, so we can’t be late on this one.”

“I’ll make sure he’s ready,” you reply, trying to wiggle out of his hold. “Let’s go, you. Need to get your stuff together. Can’t be late.”

“Listen to your girl, Shawn,” Cez remarks. “She’s right. Plus, you’ll be free of us and interruptions once you’re back at the hotel. Late call tomorrow since we’re already set here. I’m leaving the door unlocked and open so no funny bunny ok?”

“Thanks, Cez. See you in a few,” you say, trying to nudge at Shawn.

“You know that means we can go to that park in the morning,” you whisper, kissing his chin once Cez is back out in the hallway. “Upsy daisy dear.”

He sighs dramatically, but with a smile, “Only if you promise a little morning love, breakfast in bed and that park in the morning.”

“You drive such a hard bargain,” you giggle. “It’s a deal.”

He kisses you quickly and loudly before sitting up with you still in his hold, “I can’t wait to get you alone alone tonight.”

“Which would be sooner if you got a move on,” you roll your eyes, poking at his chest while his hands palm you ass.

He stops for a moment though, looks at you softly while not taking his eyes off of you.

“Love you pretty girl,” he declares, hand pushing stray strands of your hair away from your cheek, before holding it in his palm.

“Love you too, Shawn.”

#shawn mendes #shawn peter raul mendes #shawn mendes imagine #shawn mendes imagines #shawn mendes fic #shawn mendes fanfic #shawn mendes fanfiction #shawn mendes story #shawn mendes stories #shawn mendes oneshot #shawn mendes fluff

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creatingdocumentaryperformance · 3 years

Text

Syllabus: Creating Documentary Performance

Course Title: Performance Composition: Creating Documentary Performance PERF-UT 201 (4 points)

Course Description The term documentary theatre is often used interchangeably with verbatim theatre. Theatre scholar Carol Martin would advise us to beware and keep tabs on Documentary Theatre, a slippery little devil which claims to present the truth. Yet, in truth, the world of Documentary Theatre (and Art) seems to be expanding. New works of live Documentary Art challenge the documentary form by loosening the grip of journalistic objectivity and responsibility. Documentary performance now takes on a variety of forms which we will examine in this course.

This course will begin with ways of observing a range of performances (live, filmed, quotidian, and archival). We will then integrate this heightened awareness into an hybridized archival call-and-response. We will have daily in-class creation workshops designed to respond to research and performance materials. Through this process students will learn to integrate research questions and aesthetic performance elements. Participants will engage in documentary writing techniques, performance techniques such as vocal duplication and movement vocabularies, creation of composition scores, and docu-fantasia (a methodology pioneered by Guy Maddin in his film “My Winnipeg” combining personal history, civic tragedy, and mystical hypothesizing), among others. The result of these searches will be cumulative. At the end of this course, students will have created several short-form documentaries.

Participants in this course will come from various performance backgrounds: some (like me) will be based in theatre practice, others will be more comfortable writing, composing music or movement, directing, acting, or filmmaking. This course is designed for much of the creation of our projects to take place in the classroom itself with students sharing their skills with one another as they learn new skills together.

Course Objectives

to become familiar with the field of documentary performance

to develop and deepen investigative research skills

to learn to create performances from disparate elements (learn processes of meaning-making)

to generate “speculative” material from “factual” remains

to move archival materials from the page to the stage (or lens/screen as the case may be)

Requirements

You need a notebook or loose paper. We will do writing exercises that will be edited and presented during class. It will not be possible to participate fully in movement/writing work on a laptop.

You will need scissors and a glue stick.

Please see the class schedule below. Please come to class having completed the listed requirements (read, watched, and prepared performance elements) and come prepared to share your findings and contribute to discussions, workshops, and rehearsals.

There will be four assignments due during the course: a) construction paper photo journalism Using lessons on image composition from Molly Bang’s “Picture This,” recreate one image from one of the documentaries or images we viewed during weeks 1-4 (or an image of your choice). Write a brief but vivid description of the scene you hope to capture. Upload both the original and your version of the image as well as the description. This image is due on February 21, 2021. b) 360 degree video (maximum 5-minutes long) Create a three-minute long 360 degree video of your own living space (use Ackerman’s video for inspiration). Research the history of your living space (What is the history of that land? When was the building constructed? Who owned it? Who lived there?) and then write a two-minute monologue from the point of view of someone you image to be a previous tenant. This is the basis of the performance. You may choose to incorporate other performance elements created in the course thus far (movement vocabularies, musical elements, etc.). The video should be submitted via email on week 5, a 500 word summary of building history including sources is due on week 6, and the final performance is due on March 21, 2021. c) Documentary Étude (maximum 10-minutes long) Seek out your own musical archive (this might be something personal, something you amassed yourself or something you discover out in the world) and using strategies developed in class (ex. haikus, nightstand writings, movement vocabularies) and other techniques learned from docs we’ve seen (vocal re-enactments, karaoke, performance re-creation, etc.) create a live documentary étude to the song or recording of your choice. This étude should include research into the song and, based on that research, some theories we have discussed in class that help analyze your findings. The way you structure this presentation is entirely up to you. Due April 26-May 3, 2021 (exact date to be decided upon by in consultation between students and instructor). d) performance review The final assignment for this class is a 1000-1200 word review of another classmate’s documentary performance. The point of this assignment is to constructively critique a colleague’s work while integrating the texts and theories we have discussed during the course. This is to be submitted to the instructor via email on or before the final day of class (May 10, 2020).

Attendance in this class is critical. Much work takes place in-class and this cannot necessarily be made-up through subsequent assignments. More than three unexcused absences will result in a failing grade. Absences must be excused in advance, please make your request via email. Likewise three unexcused latenesses will count as one absence. Assignments are due on the date specified unless a change is discussed in advance with the instructor.

Class Schedule

Week One: February 1, 2021

Introduction to Documentary Theatre

A short documentary performance: Devotional Space

Course Introduction, Expectations, and Agreements

Week Two: February 8, 2021 Truth, Objectivity, and the Truth of Fiction

Read, Carol Martin, “Bodies of Evidence” and Walter Benjamin “The Task of the Translator”

Watch, Lynn Sachs, “Your Day Is My Night” https://vimeo.com/58024122 and “Your Day Is My Night” (live performance) https://vimeo.com/191185422

Week Three: Thursday February 18, 2021 Objects That Talk

Read, Roland Barthes “Studium” pg. 23-28, “Punctum” pg. 38-47 in Camera Lucida, Ariella Azoulay “The Spectator Is Called to Take Part,” and Molly Bang “Picture This: How Pictures Work”

Watch, Yuval Hamieri “I Think This is the Closest to How The Footage Looked” https://www.nytimes.com/video/opinion/100000004383825/i-think-this-is-the-closest-to-how-the-footage-looked.html and Vaginal Davis “This Is Not A Dream” https://youtu.be/A03i57f53E4

Week Four: February 22, 2021 Interpellation and Composition

Read, Joshua Whitehead “On Ekphrasis and Emphasis” and Louis Althusser “Ideology and State Apparatuses” pg. 162-177

Watch, Kirsten Johnson “Cameraperson” https://stream.nyu.edu/media/Cameraperson+-+DML+Film+DC04692/1_6j3rpjc7

DUE February 21, 2021: Construction Paper Photo Journalism Assignment

Week Five: March 1, 2021 Memory and Repetition

Read, Diana Taylor “The Archive and The Repertoire” pg. 16-30 and Richard Schechner “Restoration of Behavior” pg. 35-55

Watch, Caveh Zahedi “The Show About The Show"

PREPARE AND UPLOAD before class: 360 video

Week Six: March 8, 2021 Docufantasia: Speculation, Narrative, and History

Guest Speaker: Farihah Zaiman

No readings this week.

Watch, Farihah Zaiman “Nobody Loves Me”, Guy Maddin “My Winnipeg” https://stream.nyu.edu/media/t/1_3fuaywbk/157165221, and Chantal Ackerman “La Chambre” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AGakyb3eBU

BRING TO CLASS: Write, a few notes on building/land history

Week Seven: March 15, 2021 No Class

Feedback sessions on Building History text/monologue available during class and office hours

Week Eight: March 22, 2021 Presentation Day

Guest Speaker: Alison S.M. Kobayashi

Watch, Alison S.M. Kobayashi Showcase, please be sure to watch “From Alex to Alex” and “Music Is Magic”

DUE March 21st: 360 videos & monologues assignment (uploaded to shared site)

Week Nine: March 29, 2021 Psychodrama and the Politics of Space

Suggested Read: Ngugi wa Thiong’o, “Enactments of Power: The Politics of Performance Space”

Watch: William Greaves, “In The Company of Men” https://stream.nyu.edu/media/In%20the%20Company%20of%20Men%20(William%20Greaves%2C%201969)./1_13usuirk

Week Ten: April 5, 2021 Creating a Performance Plan

Read: Barbara Browning “The Gift” (read Part One available in NYU e-books) and Doris Humphrey “Check List” pg. 159-166

Watch (we will watch segments of this in class): Okwui Okpokwasili “Bronx Gothic” available on NYU Kanopy

Week Eleven: April 12, 2021 Listening as Research

Read, Martin Daughtry “Acoustic Palimpsests”; (suggested but not assigned Alexandra T. Vazquez “Listening in Detail”)

Listen, Reply All (podcast) “The Case of the Missing Hit” https://gimletmedia.com/shows/reply-all/o2h8bx

Week Twelve: April 19, 2021 No Class

Week 13: April 26, 2021 Documentary Étude

Read, Jacob Wren “The DJ Who Knew Too Much” and “Every Song I’ve Ever Written”

Re-watch, Alison S.M. Kobayashi “Music Is Magic”

Students workshop elements of their final performance

Create final performance schedule

Week 14: May 3, 2021 Final Presentations

Week 15: May 10, 2021 To Be Announced

Additional Performance Links

Choosing performances to share with you was both a joy and an agony. There were many great works that didn’t make it onto the syllabus proper. I wanted to share some of those with you here in case you wanted see more work. You are more than welcome to come to office hours to discuss any works you may have seen (on this list or in your own searchings). Additional performance viewing is not a requirement of this class and is meant solely for your enjoyment.

The Wooster Group, “Rumstick Road”: https://vimeo.com/88116889

Nature Theatre of Oklahoma, “The Life and Times of Kristin Worrall, Episode 8”: https://vimeo.com/145414310

Caveh Zahedi, “The Show About The Show": https://www.bricartsmedia.org/tv-shows-videos/show-about-show

Walis Johnson, “Jessy’s House of Styles”: https://vimeo.com/193445572

Nadia Ross “What Happened To The Seeker?”, Part one: https://vimeo.com/147670008 , Part two: https://vimeo.com/148387633

Wellness

Your health and safety are a priority at NYU. If you experience any health or mental health issues during this course, we encourage you to utilize the support services of the 24/7 NYU Wellness Exchange 212-443-9999. Also, all students who may require an academic accommodation due to a qualified disability, physical or mental, please register with the Moses Center 212-998-4980. Please let your instructor know if you need help connecting to these resources.

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gelo-p · 4 years

Text

What trying for T10 ~kinda~ looks like

My friend said that the last thing I wrote was all over the place so I decided to rewrite all of it. >_>

So what’s this about?

This is just my own experience (and in a way, method) about tiering in Bandori; most of these, you’ve probably already read somewhere else. To be frank, tiering in Bandori can be summarized as “get the best team you can, prepare lots of flames, pick meta songs, and go like hell”. However, I think it’s important to visualize and plan out what “going like hell” really means.

Most of these will be written as if you’re trying to get into T10 as a solo player.

First things first - Bestdori is your friend.

Bestdori is a website that lets you determine exactly how strong your team really is. If you haven’t checked it out yet, please do so; it’s invaluable in making estimates. Set up an account (you don’t have to, but it’s convenient later on), enter your cards and area items, and then use Bestdori’s team builder feature to determine what the best team to use is for a specific event. This post assumes you won’t need help in using Bestdori; I might write a separate post for that later.

(huge thanks to u/NonSpicyBurrito over at reddit and the rest of the Bestdori team for making an excellent tool ^^)

Table of Contents

“Estimate how much EP you’ll need”: A Fallacy

There are no guarantees, so prepare to lose efficiently

Automating the Guesswork: The T10 Calc

Input: Active Hours Per Day

Input: Multi-Live Score (includes VS Live)

Input: Multi-Live Duration

Input: Challenge Live Score

Input: Challenge Live Duration

Input: Final Hours Sprint

Planning your daily Multi-Live Progress

Planning your daily Challenge Live Progress

Hold on - what’s a “set” ???

Tracking your Flames (and CL’s) per day

Miscellaneous Tips

Final words

I. “Estimate how much EP you’ll need”: A Fallacy

Getting into your desired tier (T1, T2, T3, T10, T100, T1000...) is all about getting enough event points (EP) before the event ends, and nothing else. If only 99 people have higher EP than you, then congrats, you make it to the top 100! And if your EP is so high that only 9 people have it higher, then you make it to the Top 10.

However, there is no good way to estimate how much EP you’ll need to ensure getting into the desired tier. The moment you think you’ve figured it out, the other players start upping the ante and all of a sudden you’re left in the dust.

For example: when I first started estimating the EP I’ll need for Cycling Seasons, I figured 16M would be enough for T10, based on some foolish assumption using data from the last Challenge Live (which was My Ideal). Having read other posts by the other T10′s (post-event), they wondered if 18M would be enough. Surprise, the cutoff turned out to be 18.5M - and I personally did 19.2M.

Where did 18.5M come from? Nowhere. Nobody decided before the event to just “stop” at 18.5M and call it a day. And that’s why you can never actually estimate how much EP you’ll need. As long as there’s someone crazier than you out there, that cutoff is going to be pushed higher and higher.

II. There are no guarantees, so prepare to lose efficiently

Read that header again and again until it sinks in. There are no guarantees. I can tell from personal experience: during the Cycling Seasons event, the player who finished at T11 had a better team than I did (I know from periodically tracking their score), but I was able to put in more effort.

All you can do is put in as much effort as you can, using the best team you can get your hands on; however, should this not work out, you should also learn how to lose efficiently.

There will come a point where the amount of effort you’ve done will almost always** guarantee you a spot in T100. You have to decide at that point - usually after 2 days of playing at T10 pace - if keeping up with T10 is worth it or not. If you decide not to, then congratulations on an early T100.

** In the absolutely rare-as-hell event (never happened before AFAIK because seriously this is crazy AF) that 100 people fight for T10, then you’re going to have to put more effort to stay in T100. Otherwise, just play defensively, and keep yourself above T50. It’ll be easy at that point.

III. Automating the Guesswork: The T10 Calc

If you’re still willing to take the risk, then let’s start talking numbers. This was the first step in planning for me: making sure I know the numbers behind what I’m about to do.

First, grab a copy of the T10 Calc spreadsheet, since this pretty much streamlines the entire estimation process.

T10 Calc over at Google Sheets

Note: I know it’s ironic how it’s called the T10 Calc when I said there are no guarantees, but that’s what I call it, so... ^^;

Go to the EP Estimator Sheet and fill up the inputs.

Num Full Days - An event is always N Days + 6 hours long, so enter the number of full days here. It’s officially announced a day before the actual event, but sometimes Bestdori already has that info as early as a week before. Some events are just 6 days long (lucky~) while others can reach up to 12 (fuck me ugh). Typically it’s 8 or 9.

Num Hours Last Day - An even is always N Days + 6 hours long, so usually keep this at 6. There is a special case where you might want to change this though, discussed later.

Active Hours per Day - The number of hours per day you’ll be playing. This doesn’t include breaks, i.e. Active Hours + Sleep + Breaks = 24

ML Score - Compute using Bestdori. This is your score when playing in Multi-Live / VS Live using 3 flames.

ML Duration - The average duration of a Multi-Live. This is different from the average duration of a song.

CP required per CL: This pretty much stays at 800, since this is the most efficient, time-wise. (There are 200/400-CP CL’s, we won’t use those)

CL score - Compute using Bestdori. This is your score when playing a Challenge Live. If the event isn’t a Challenge Live, please set this to 0 or leave blank.

CL duration - The average duration of a Challenge Live. This is different from the average duration of the challenge song.

Final hours sprint - Specific to Challenge Live events, it’s possible to hold back your CP’s, and instead use them during the final 6 hours of the event.

IV. Input: Active Hours Per Day

The average person can do 14 active hours per day. Which means 14 hours of staring at your phone, and 10 hours left for eating / having a life / sleeping. I found this the hard way; you’re free to make your own estimate. You can bump this up to something higher (I did 14.3), but make sure you don’t lose too much sleep / time for other activities. The higher you can push this, the better.

Have you ever wondered how T1 / T2 / T3′s always get crazy-high scores? Well, they can set this to 24 by sharing their account with teammates using the Data Transfer feature. By having teammates who can take over your account while you rest, your account can do 24 hours a day of gaming. I personally don’t do it (I’m a soloist all the way~), but it doesn’t seem to be a banned practice, so get your own team if you want those titles.

Thankfully, there are only 1-to-3 of these accounts per event, leaving some space for solo players to actually get to T10. WARNING THOUGH! If after a couple of days, you can’t get into T10 because they all have crazy high scores, give up and settle for T100. You can’t fight a 24/7 account.

V. Input: Multi-Live Score (includes VS Lives)

Note: For VS Live Events, you’re obviously expected to play VS Lives instead of Multi-Lives, but for the purpose of naming variables I stuck to the “ML” naming scheme.

No matter the event type, you’re going to have to compute an ML score using Bestdori.

Always use 3 flames for your computation, and because Bestdori gives you the maximum points achievable, dial it down for safety. In my case, I used 4275 instead of 4380. Initially it was 4200; however, after 2 days, I realized that it’s too safe (my actual score was waaaay above my calc sheet’s estimate) so I bumped it up to 4275.

Please note that different event types will give you different scores for the same team; Multi-Lives during Challenge Live events give you a lower EP compared to, say, a VS Live event, because during a Challenge Live, you’re expected to get some of your scores from the Challenge Lives. VS Lives give just a bit more EP than Challenge Lives; however, there won’t actually be any Challenge Lives, so the final EP is smaller. Normal events (where you’re expected to farm using ML’s alone) give the highest EP per ML.

ML Score is directly tied to the room score, and there are four ways to bump it up:

Increase your band’s power. Max out all your area items, and follow Bestdori’s recommended band. If you can afford it, buy your way into better members. Prioritize maxing out items that match the Characters / Attribute of the event.

Choose a Leader with a 90/100/110/115% score boost, and max out their level. Bestdori would have already done this for you. For VS Live, increase everyone’s skill levels.

Join private rooms (where the members are high-level). Joining the Grand Room is okay (that’s what I did), but if you have high-level friends who can help you out with their high-level bands, then it’s better. Conversely, during VS Lives, you want to join a private room where everyone is weaker than you are.

Pick meta songs. Meta songs score higher in general compared to non-meta songs, so try to pick them as much as you can. These include Jumpin’, Unite from A to Z, Home Street, KIZUNA MUSIC, etc... You probably recognize this list.

VI. Input: Multi-Live Duration (includes VS Lives)

This is the amount it takes to complete an entire Multi-Live / VS Live, from the moment you press the “Live” button to the next time you’re able to press it again.

There are two ways to dial down ML duration:

Join private rooms. On average, ML duration is 3.5 minutes in the Grand Room; if someone disconnects, or takes a reeeeally long time to pick, it can take up to 4, even 5 minutes. A good game in a public room is 2 mins and 45 secs long, but those are far and few in between. By joining a private room and agreeing beforehand which songs and difficulties to pick, you can keep the average ML duration down.

Pick meta songs, again. Meta songs are shorter in general compared to non-meta songs, that’s why they’re really good for farming event points. You will keep running into these songs once you start tiering.

SPECIAL NOTE FOR VS LIVES: During VS Lives, there’s an Event Song room, which might prove to be faster than the Free Song room, since there’s no need to select the song. This is especially the case if the event song is a meta song; case in point, the Roselia vs Afterglow event, where the event song was Passionate Anthem. I suggest checking out the Event Room (and song) during the first day, and see if the ML Score and ML Duration will give you a better final EP compared to taking your chances over at the Free Song room.

VII. Input: Challenge Live Score

Note: If you’re not playing a Challenge Live event, set this to 0!

Specific to Challenge Live Events, you also have to compute your CL score. A Challenge Live event will have a list of featured songs (you can look this up in advance using Bestdori). Take for example the Cycling Seasons event:

Songs higher up in the list are better for your score, but I find that the first Hard song in the list is less tiring to play, giving me more consistent scores (in this case, Brand New Days level 18).

If you can genuinely manage playing the EX / SP songs multiple times consistently, then please do so.

Once you’ve settled into a song, calculate your CL score. Always use 800 CP.

Again, better to have a safety net, so instead of using 26,380 I used 25000. You’ll get a good feel for this value once you’ve actually started playing the CL songs. Just update the estimate later on.

You can bump this up by getting all members of your team as strong as you can. Area items, max skill levels.

VIII. Input: Challenge Live Duration

Like ML Duration, this is the amount it takes to complete an entire Challenge Live, from the moment you press the “Live” button to the next time you’re able to press it again. There’s no way to bring this down, since you’ll be playing the same song over and over again (to get a consistent CL score, see above).

Use an external timer to get the exact time this takes. Add a few seconds for safety, because the phone slows down after some time. For example, Brand New Days takes 2 mins 12 seconds long, but it can slow down up to 2 mins 22 secs long (according to my timing) once you’ve played enough.

IX. Input: Final Hours Sprint

This is unique to Challenge Lives, because it’s possible to stock up on CP’s and use them all up during the last hours of the event.

When this is set to > 0 (but capped at 6, for the number of hours in the last day), the estimator will calculate how much CP you should save up to perform the sprint during the last day.

A sprint is simply a period where you start using your CP’s. If you save up your CP’s until the very last hours, it’s possible to catch a few people off guard who thought you’ve ran out of CP already. Sprints let you earn a really high amount of EP in a short time, letting you overtake other people. There are still daily sprints, but not as much as the final day sprint. (You will still play Challenge Lives every day, you’re just not going to use them all up)

This will not affect your final score; this is just so your opponents could be tricked into not giving too much effort, thinking you use up your CP everyday. Please note however that most T10′s will also hold back their daily CP usage, but from what I gathered, most of them will sprint during the last full day, and not during the final 6 hours.

This won’t have any advantage if everyone else decides to hold back their sprints until the final 6 hours.

X. Planning your daily Multi-Live Progress

Now that you know how much effort you’ll be putting into tiering, you can now determine your Final EP and the number of Flames you’ll need to get there.

If you’re lacking in Flames, better start buying stars early. The premium boxes are the most economic; however, you have to buy them months in advance, because it takes 25 days to reap the full benefits.

If you’re not satisfied with your estimated Final EP, then you have to start finding ways to bring up your live scores, bring down your live durations, or increase how much time you can play for in a day.

Use Bestdori to simulate past events and see how you’ll fare. ^_^

Now, assuming you’re already satisfied with your target EP (again, no guarantees...), the next step is to ensure you’re on track getting there. This is where Flames used per full day comes in. If you want to evenly distribute the load over the duration of the entire event, then you must use at least this much flames per day. It’s easy to think you’ll just catch up, but might prove difficult (remember, you barely have enough time for sleep and other activities). On the other hand, if after reaching your quota you have enough strength to keep going, then please do so.

Of course, the final 6 hours isn’t a full day, so for that, please refer to Flames used during final hours.

XI. Planning your daily Challenge Live Progress

Note: The Challenge Live section should become empty if CL score is set to 0; conversely, the Normal / VS / Live Goals / Mission section should be empty if CL score is set to > 0. Also, a lot of these are just stats used in computing more important stats.

For Challenge Lives, the idea is the same: you have a quota of Flames to use per day, but now you also have a quota of Challenge Lives played per day. Both of these already take your Final Hours Sprint into account. The longer you plan to sprint, the more flames you have to consume per day, and the less CL’s you have to play per day (because you’re concentrating a lot of the CL’s in the final 6 hours). You’re still going to play the exact number of ML’s and CL’s, you’re just rearranging them.

If you don’t plan on sprinting (Final Hours Sprint = 0), then the final hours is just like any other day: the same amount of Flames and CL’s per hour, except for just 6 hours.

Should you decide to split the final 6 hours (Final Hours Sprint > 0, < 6), then you’ll have a few hours where you’re playing normally (mixed ML’s and CL’s), and then the final hours will be for CL’s only.

If you plan on using the full 6 hours for a final sprint (Final Hours Sprint = 6), then that’s all you need to do: play CL’s one after another for 6 hours straight. Please start at least half an hour earlier to account for possible interruptions. You need to consume all your Challenge Points before the event ends.

If you want to dedicate the final 6 hours to a sprint, but only want to do it for 4 hours (as an example), then please do the following:

Note your current total active hours.

Set num hours last day to 4.

Set final hours sprint to 4.

At this point, your total active hours should drop.

Slowly increase your active hours per day until you’re back to your original total active hours.

Since you’re “forfeiting” 2 hours of the final 6 hours, you have to make up for this by playing a bit more per day.

XII. Hold on - what’s a “set” ???

You need 800 CP to perform a Challenge Live, and in order to get 800 CP you need to play (in my example) 3.74 games on average. A “set” is the set of these 3.74 ML games + the CL it activates. That’s how you get set duration: 3.74 ML x 3.5 mins / ML + 2.37 mins of the CL = ~15.45 mins (it’s 15.46 when computed manually; Excel just rounded off 3.74 differently).

I just refer to it as a “set” for the purposes of calculation. Since you won’t actually be playing ML’s and CL’s one after the other (it’s more time-efficient to play a bunch of ML’s and then a bunch of ML’s, especially if you need to switch teams), you can just ignore the idea that you have to play in terms of “sets”.

XIII. Tracking your Flames (and CL’s) per day

Now that you know your daily quotas, it’s time to visualize them. Using the Excel file, head over to the Tracker Meta sheet:

Enter the current full day of the event, and it will automatically compute how many Flames and CL’s you should have used by the end of the current day.

Please keep playing until both “Remaining” fields are 0. ^_^ (they will of course increase once you move to the next day)

There is an Estimated Current Score based on the number of games you’ve played. If your actual score is below this estimated score after a day, then you overestimated your scores, and should immediately bring them down. Conversely, if your actual score is above the estimated score, then you made too safe estimates. You can probably increase your average ML score / CL score when that happens (I personally did this, from 4200 ML score to 4275).

To actually enter how many flames and CL’s you’ve consumed, head to the Tracker sheet.

Every time you finish a song (while the fireworks are exploding, to make better use of that time), enter a “3″ under the Flames column, or a “1″ under the Challenge column (if playing a CL). The timestamp should automatically be filled up (instructions inside the Excel file); if it doesn’t work, just delete the timestamp column, it’s not important anyway.

Note: The timestamp column has since been deleted, after migrating the document to Google Sheets. It’s not relevant anymore, but other functions should still work as intended.

Based on your current iteration (which day you’re in) and the number of games you’ve already played, you’ll know conveniently what time your misery would actually end for the day ^o^

(If you rest for one hour, you’ll find that the hours left won’t change, and that the estimated end time would also be pushed back one hour.)

It’s also possible to enter 0.25 / 0.5 under the Challenge column, if you somehow decide to play 200 / 400-CP CL’s. I don’t recommend it, but at least when starting out and just trying out the songs, you can still plot accurately.

One thing I personally do is enter a “2″ under the Flames section when I finish an ML with a score that’s significantly lower than my estimate. This lets me ensure that my estimated score won’t be higher than my actual score. However, I have to use one extra flame to catch up - and that means in the end, I’ll end up using more flames than what was actually planned.

Note: The tracker is only meant to be used until the last full day. I don’t think tracking the final 6 hours is necessarily useful; better to focus on just playing at that point, and give your best! ^o^

XIV. Miscellaneous Tips

During the first day, obviously, you’ll be playing CL’s after the ML’s (since you don’t have CP’s yet).

Starting the 3rd day, however, I found it easier to play all the CL’s before the all ML’s. This also lets me avoid a long-ass sprint (imagine finishing the last full day with a sprint... only to follow it up with a 5-hour sprint). This is only applicable if you plan to do a final sprint, since you’ll have reserved CP’s by this time. Your mileage may vary, just something you might want to consider.

Now, I didn’t discover this by accident - I actually woke up one morning and found there was no internet. Yes, that did happen. Thankfully, because I had enough CP to spare, I was able to stay productive and “passed” the time burning through my CP’s instead (mobile data proved to be stable enough for CL’s). That’s one advantage of not immediately consuming all your CP’s - it lets you stay productive (assuming you have mobile data) when the internet fails.

If you do lose internet and the only way to earn event points is via playing ML’s, then you’re fucked. Go to sleep, and make up for it once the internet is back. You have to hit your quotas, and if you aren’t playing, then you should be resting. Same thing when there’s an emergency maintenance.

When playing in a public room, if another player is taking too long to load, you might want to disconnect - especially when their progress bar resets. This is admittedly a dick move, but in my experience, 50% of the time, that player is going to lose connection in the middle of the game, and your room score is going to suffer. It’s still up to you. That said, don’t disconnect while loading a VS Live.

When you’re already tired, and you think there’s a chance you’ll fail the chosen song in Expert, just pick Hard. The billion times Jumpin’ was chosen, I played it in Hard. No shame in that.

You might want to start tracking the scores of other T10 contenders at some point. For non-Challenge Lives, this lets you know how many hours a day they’re actually playing (since EP gain is proportional to time played); for Challenge Lives, this can give you some idea if they’ve already sprinted or not (if they gained waaay more points than usual, you know they’ve expended some, maybe all, of their CP). Now, this info might not matter, since you already have a planned amount of effort anyway, but if you see that you’re severely lagging behind, start considering stepping up, or backing down.

If you do make it into the T10 at some point, make sure to set stupid profile comments. It’s your time under the spotlight, have fun with it XD (don’t put offensive comments please) ... just don’t take 30 minutes to decide.

Prime examples. 😎

XV. Final words

Whew! I don’t know how much of these is new information to any of you, but I hope at the very least that the Spreadsheet helps. >///< If you have questions please don’t hesitate to ask me!

Most people who try for T10 will have friends to help them. I cannot, in good faith, recommend doing this alone like I did, especially during a major event.

However, that being said, I can understand the feeling of wanting to do it anyway.

SO! Good luck, have fun, 7000+ go like hell, and hey-hey-hoh~! ^o^

#bandori #bang dream #gelo-p is talking crazy shit again #yeah i like racing

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sugagimmesugar · 5 years

Text

Only Fools Fall for You Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Both. RM and Namjoon.

Chapter. 1 2 3 4 5 6 (In Progress)

“Why are you laughing?”,she asks, confused by his reaction.

His face drops, unsure whether to tell the girl he just met about RapMonster. Why can’t he just be Namjoon for a day? A few seconds of silence as he struggles to decide who to be today…..

Both. Both Namjoon and RM.

“ Actually, that’s me, I am RM. I am kind of on holiday right now, at least I have the whole day today and until tomorrow at 12 off, but in general I am in town for almost a week cause my band is playing some shows here. I was trying to be just Namjoon today but… I am RM too. Thanks for the compliment by the way, nobody’s ever recommended my own music to me.” He shoots her a shy smile, taking in her shocked reaction. Seconds later her expression changes to a mocking grin.

“Yea sure. Hozier my old buddy just popped by last week. I should really start a wall of fame in this place, with all these international celebrities dropping by all the time.” She rolls her eyes at him and leaves him sitting at the bar alone.

With a sigh, Namjoon takes out his phone, opening Spotify and starting up a playlist. “only fools fall for you” he hadn’t missed everything from her recommended album after all. While fixing a playlist he was lost in thought. He really liked this girl, hopefully he didn’t scare her away. Suddenly he comes to a solution, how he can easily convince her that he isn’t just some dickhead being cocky. He quickly checks with his manger, who reluctantly agrees.

A few minutes later, she returns, an annoyed expression on her face.

“Show me your music then, RM.”, she says, dragging out his name in a mocking manner and looking him straight in the eye.

“I am working on a proper playlist right now. But, I actually have a little, well, lets say a proposal for you.” He smirks, taking in her surprised and questioning expression. “How about, I repay you for this coffee tonight? As in, I buy you a drink. And we actually talk a bit. If you end up liking me and we enjoy each others company as much as I think we could… I fixed a backstage pass for the show tomorrow for you. It’s just an opportunity, I don’t wanna push anything on you. I just think you could have a fun night out.” She is looking shocked… again… So after a few seconds of awkward silence he decides to get back to the most important thing: “...Please, show me some more of your music! I’m really liking it so far.”, he laughs. He can see her processing what he just said. He cant help but smile at her overwhelmed look.

She shakes her head, a cautious smile on her lips, and turns to help some customers who just entered the store.

As he picks up his phone again he sees it blowing up.

*BTS GroupChat*

Hobi: RM youre bringing a girl tomorrow?

Jin: When did you meet a girl?

Jin: You havent even been out that long? Why bring her to the concert already?

JK: oooh hyung met a girl!

JK: Is she cute?

JK: Is it a date?

JK: Send a pic!

Joon: I met her today, we are getting along great and she doesnt believe me that I am RM so I decided to prove it to her. Also maybe its a date? We will see! She hasnt even said yes yet…..

Hobi: She hasnt even said yes yet? Well done, bro.

RM: JK I cant just take a picture of her, thats creepy.

Suga: why are you guys blowing up my phone like this? let rm try to get some swedish ass and let me nap.

V: *pic of him and Jimin doing the finger heart* cheering for u hyung!

He laughs, everybody is reacting as expected.

Getting back to the playlist he finally decides to add some BTS songs. Why not brag and prepare her for tomorrow night? He keeps on adding to the list, waiting for her to return.

“Wow, how many “favourites” do you have?” he almost jumps at the voice suddenly right behind him.

“You didn’t tell me there was a maximum number of songs allowed. I am making a playlist, putting in everything I like that you might like as well.” he turns around, facing her with a smile.

“I guess that’s valid…. But there’s no way I can listen to all that before our drink later. How ‘bout a top ten? And show me some of your band’s stuff, I wanna know what kinda concert I’m committing to before I say yes to you, stranger.” she laughs, picking up his empty coffee and putting down a notepad in front of him. “Write me a top ten list of songs you recommend by your band and some other stuff. I’ll put it on here at the store and then we can see what i decide.” she turns to leave with a wink.

He grabs her arm: “Wait, you believe me all of a sudden?”

“First of all, you can’t just grab me like that, I am still theoretically at work, even though there isn’t much to do. Secondly, I googled you, dumbass. Can’t really deny that you have the same face as RM… So I believe you. Its fucking weird, yes, but I guess the dude who’s album I have been spamming for days somehow found his way to me.” Another wink and she leaves him to sit alone… again.

A top ten list, with songs to convince her to come to the concert tomorrow? That’s surprisingly much pressure.

Eternal Sunshine by Epik High

Midsummer Madness by 88rising

So Far Away by Agust D

I can give you heaven by HONNE

U by HER

Personal by Kehlani

Make it Right by BTS

Spring Day by BTS

Baepsae by BTS

Mikrokosmos by BTS

It takes him a while but eventually he finds a way to narrow it down to 10 songs. Some of his general favourites but through the view of what y/n could like.

With a broad, dimpled grin, he waves her over. She just throws up a peace sign and nods, acknowledging his wave. A few minutes later she saunters over, two coffees in her hands.

“Thought we could both use some more caffeine, RapMonster.” she says with a small giggle. He flinches and she quickly continues “Anyways, I am ready for your list! I saw you redo it so many times I was afraid you weren’t gonna finish it today. So, hand it over and I will put it on. Any special order or just any of them? Is it a ranking?”

“Ok, so it’s not a ranking or anything, just the 10 songs I decided fit your taste best, or at least I hope so. BTS, as you know, is the group I am part of, so you can take those last. Agust D is one of the other members in the group and the song is from his solo-mixtape. Since you liked mine so much I thought you might like his stuff, too. Other than that it’s some friends of mine and general songs I jam to myself. I hope you like it.” He hands her the notepad, his 4 earlier drafts already in the trashcan closest to him. She takes it and smiles: “Oh, Kehlani! I love her! Let me just queue these and then I will be right back for the coffee.”

The two sit and drink coffee while the music plays, only occasionally interrupting the listening silence for some lyric explanations.

With the time being close to closing time, the store is empty once again, and unbothered by customers, y/n has slowly started swaying and occasionally dancing along to the music, fixing small things around the store or just dancing up and down behind the bar, just going along with the music. When “Make it Right” starts, she is fixing the last small things behind the bar. He can see her really jamming to the music and it makes him smile, he knows that ARMY loves the song and he has seen the stats and all that, but it’s something different to see someone in front of you, in such a casual way, just enjoying themselves and your music.

** Oh, oh, I can make it Right**

As the chorus hits, she is just grinning at him, dancing around him and actually singing along to it, messily since she doesn’t know the lyrics but still. A bright smile lights up his face at the view, as he watches her move through the room, putting away their mugs and lastly going to get her stuff, getting ready to leave. She emerges with a leather jacket over her arm and a bag on her shoulder. As the last notes of “Make it Right” are sounding out, she hits the pause button.

“Sorry, I’m gonna have to stop this here. I gotta lock up now so we gotta get going. Is it chill if we head to pub right away? I need to eat something before I can let you buy me a drink. I know a nice small place close to here, I doubt any of your fans would go there, so you don’t have to worry about getting recognized.” She shoots him an apologetic look as she turns off everything at the register. He gets up and gets ready to leave, waiting for her just outside the shop.

“Lead the way, you’re the local. I’ll eat anything and to be honest I am not picky with pubs, I would just prefer not to cause a scandal tonight by getting photographed at a pub with a girl.”

She laughs, “Oh god yea that would be bad. It’s just this way. Let’s go!”

#only fools #bts rm #bts suga #bts jimin #bts jin #bts v #bts jungkook #bts jhope #bts namjoon #bts taehyung #bts imagine #bts fanfic #namjoon x reader #namjoon x y/n #rm x reader #rm x y/n

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defenestrata · 6 years

Note

Kisha + ykw questions 👀

why is this a daily routine. when will the government stop your sinful hands from sending me these ksksksksksksk

QUESTIONS FOR YOUR OCs

What’s the maximum amount of time your character can sit still with nothing to do?

fairly long, maybe even forty-five minutes. she’s a meditative person who can probably keep herself entertained trying to recall things like song lyrics.

How easy is it for your character to laugh?

kisha has almost never laughed out loud in a solid holler more than twice in her life. But getting a chuckle out of her isn’t that hard. surprisingly, short zingers, puns and slapstick are what truly get her.

How do they put themselves to bed at night (reading, singing, thinking?)

reading the medical journals that she should be reading for work. But those things can knock you out so goddamn quick, it’s amazing. either that, or rambling in her journals about nothing in particular.

How easy is it to earn their trust?

difficult. kisha is a private person who absolutely hates confiding in others. moreover, because she’s so professional and detached by nature, she doesn’t speak to others much about herself. therefore, to hear her deepest thoughts and secrets is really a privilege.

How easy is it to earn their mistrust?

easy. do one thing that she doesn’t expect from you and her trust in you is gone forever, and you are wiped out from her psyche. good thing is that she may entertain an explanation, but you’ll have to be ready with a good excuse.

Do they consider laws flexible, or immovable?

hey, she wants a carefree, healthy life without getting into trouble from the police. besides, laws are absolutely necessary to keep order. if you don’t like law, good, you likely live in a democracy, and can protest in a healthy manner. otherwise, don’t break the law unless you’re fine with everyone breaking the law.

What triggers nostalgia for them, most often? Do they enjoy that feeling?

everything to do with family. media remotely related to siblings will make her miss her own baby sister. a lot of things make her miss the days when she didn’t have to do taxes by herself. also, shitty fast food triggers memory of home cooking. nostalgia is not a good feeling. it makes her mournful and mopey.

What were they told to stop/start doing most often as a child?

child kisha was very shy, but also vaguely a prick. she had to be told consistently to be a little more outgoing and involved in school activities. she didn’t really take to sing-alongs and clay-modelling. also, for a long time, she had a mildly snobbish attitude, and didn’t make friends easily. just had to be softened around the edges a bit, be a little more considerate and flexible and enthusiastic.

Do they swear? Do they remember their first swear word?

well, back at home, she never did. now, in london, the habit is sort of growing on her. her first swear word was probably something along the lines of shit, and it probably made her super guilty when she did say it.

What lie do they most frequently remember telling? Does it haunt them?

kisha doesn’t lie. she doesn’t like to. but in her line of work, she’s also relatively inexperienced with delivering hard truths to her patients (she’s a physical therapist). the worst lie she’s ever told in that context was to an old patient of hers, who was terrified of surgery, insisting that she wouldn’t need it. the comfort slipped out of her without much meaning. the patient got better, yes, but she feels terrible about it regardless.

How do they cope with confusion (seek clarification, pretend they understand, etc)?

she has no pride about asking. especially given that even the slightest gap in her knowledge leads to her having immense anxiety.

How do they deal with an itch found in a place they can’t quite reach?

suffer. run to the nearest bathroom as soon as she can to get at it with some kind of string of toiler paper.

What colour do they think they look best in? Do they actually look best in that colour?

kisha likes to keep it simple and elegant, so she wears a lot of white and beige, without getting too wild with it. it’s a shame, because she looks really good in blues and greens.

What animal do they fear most?

kisha fucking hates anything that flies. birds, bats, insects, you goddamn name it. just, doesn’t trust anything that flies.

How do they speak? Is what they say usually thought of on the spot, or do they rehearse it in their mind first?

you bet that she will repeat a sentence in her head three times before she actually says it because she’s that scared of looking silly or incompetent. her style of speech is usually curt, eloquent, and to the point, without a lot of metaphor.

What makes their stomach turn?

the idea that she’s going nowhere. that her career doesn’t really contribute anything meaningful to people’s lives other than the fact that she’s helping just one or two individuals. in her, there’s a selfish desire to do something remarkable, give herself some purpose. Right now, she feels a little lost, losing her life in-between each workweek.

Are they easily embarrassed?

by others? no. but if she does something herself that’s in any way even slightly a little awkward she’s going to shrivel up and die inside.

What embarrasses them?

making mistakes, mostly. making factual inaccuracies. being put on the spot and interviewed about her personal life. talking about herself in general, to be quite honest. she doesn’t have a very clear picture of the kind of person she is. she cries if she has to submit statements of purpose to anywhere.

What is their favorite number?

maybe — 12? a pleasant enough number. It’s a multiple of one, two, three and four. Very aesthetic.

If they were asked to explain the difference between romantic and platonic or familial love, how would they do so?

oof, you’re not asking the best candidate to answer. kisha would state that platonic love is more or less omnipresent in all positive relationships. platonic love for blood relations is the same as familial love, and romantic love means a best friend that you’re willing to marry and kiss and do all that sort of romantic stuff with. thinking about this would give her a headache.

Why do they get up in the morning?

bills don’t pay themselves. and, you know, the chance to help people yada yada yada. but the bills first. god, rent is expensive.

How does jealousy manifest itself in them (they become possessive, they become aloof, etc)?

kisha has the capacity to be remarkably cold and controlling if she needs to be. she can be immensely vitriolic. if she’s jealous, which, incidentally, isn’t a very common phenomenon, she will become hypersensitive to the actions of people around her and majorly possessive of the object of affection, and become aggressive.

How does envy manifest itself in them (they take what they want, they become resentful, etc)?

she takes a completely different approach to envy. genuine envy just makes her upset and causes her to have 11pm existential crises with silent and soft tears streaming down her cheeks about how there’s so much that she wants and will never have, like a stable, anxiety free life.

Is sex something that they’re comfortable speaking about? To whom?

she’s pretty meh about sex, to be honest. she isn’t especially prudish but also not especially liberal on the subject. if she can be said to have any opinion at all, she thinks sex is a little overhyped in media.

What are their thoughts on marriage?

marriage is cool, but would be massively inconvenient given her current financial situation. so no thanks. besides, ya girl is way too busy to even date (trust me, she’s tried) so there’s no way wedding bells are ringing anytime soon.

What is their preferred mode of transportation?

bus. there’s a bus stop right outside her apartment block, aka god is real, and it’s a convenient way of getting most places — without being too packed with people on weekday mornings. as long as she starts early, she usually gets to work on time.

What causes them to feel dread?

the idea that she’s not really getting anywhere. the poor girl is stuck in a 24/7 existential crisis please save her. just, she wants so much more meaning from her life, but she isn’t able to really implement anything to change her life. she’s been stuck in a crap apartment for almost all of her adult life with no significant opportunities coming her way.

Would they prefer a lie over an unpleasant truth?

absolutely not. dealing with the truth is critical to growing up. so she’d like to give it as it is in theory. in practice she may just buckle once or twice, but she dislikes lying greatly, and isn’t even a good liar.

Do they usually live up to their own ideals?

hahahahahaha. not really. kisha isn’t even sure of what her ideal is, to be honest, she just knows that she’s got a pretty long way to go to get there. this existence of bill to bill doesn’t cut it.

Who do they most regret meeting?

lowkey? her roommate, melanie. if she didn’t contribute half of the rent, kisha would’ve booted her out three years ago. she’s almost never home at night, doesn’t help in cleaning up and/or cooking, and fawns over her boyfriend all the time. of course, her leaving would cause more problems than her staying, but what do you do. good thing she leaves later in the plot :) she also lowkey regrets meeting erich because let’s be honest she could have had better things to do than ward off an organised crime unit.

Who are they the most glad to have met?

jamie. at first, she was the biggest thorn in kisha’s side, just showing up at her workplace one fine day and asking for mentorship. kisha had agreed pretty much instantly, out of general social pressures, but truly wanted her to leave in a week. soon, jamie became important to her — a massive help in warding off social anxiety and general dread.

Do they have a go-to story in conversation? Or a joke?

she has stories about her old school because it was lowkey pretty wild with its traditions and stuff, but she never really participated in them as much. it doesn’t diminish the value of the stories in any way.

Could they be considered lazy?

never. no. if she isn’t doing something meaningful one every six hours she’d die of boredom and nervousness.

How hard is it for them to shake a sense of guilt?

impossible. kisha is probably the most moral character I have, she’s really committed to doing what she believes is the right thing, and doesn’t believe that the end justifies the means. therefore, anything she does that conflicts with her moral compass will make her guilty for a super duper long time.

How do they treat the things their friends come to them excited about? Are they supportive?

yes, if she’s genuinely excited. fake it if she’s not, which she’s good at. the trouble is that she’s also relatively quick to see problems in people’s plans and ideas — but she wouldn’t dare say them out loud; it’s just gonna fester in her head for the rest of eternity. on the surface, she’ll support them, and if it backfires later she will stay mournful and silent.

Do they actively seek romance, or do they wait for it to fall into their lap?

listen, a part of kisha is hoping so goddamn hard for a nice meet-cute on the subway or at work and everything to just fall into place and happen. then she can be happily married and in a stable job. but actually talking to cute people ?? skull emoji.

Do they have a system for remembering names, long lists of numbers, things that need to go in a certain order (like anagrams, putting things to melodies, etc)?

she just makes notes on her phone. it’s the twenty-first century, bud.

What memory do they revisit the most often?

christmas time memories, always. chelmsford would always be absolutely lit up, and there would be carollers, snow, her sister would be home, she’d be home, they’d have a great dinner, she’d get her sister all the presents she wanted from london. every year it gets better and better. she also has memories of certain patients that were really lovely.

How easy is it for them to ignore flaws in other people?

difficult. she can find flaws in anything and everything. but she is level-headed enough (most of the time) to acknowledge a person as someone despite their flaws. someone valuable to her. however, when these glaring flaws come into play in interaction, she will take note of them.

How sensitive are they to their own flaws?

oh, she thinks she’s super flawed. she’s not bold enough, risk-taking enough, charming enough, warm enough, fun enough, loving enough, smart enough. and she’s especially sensitive about these flaws if pointed out. her poor ass tries so hard to be unemotional but to be honest she’ll cry at the tip of a hat if you say the right thing.

How do they feel about children?

overrated germ sacks. there, she said it. dealing with kids gives her a plain old headache, and while she’d never ever hurt a child or even do anything to them that’s not an expression of care — she just doesn’t like kids that much. even her own baby sister really took a lot out of her.

How badly do they want to reach their end goal?

what is a goal. what is reaching. is anything real. i mean okay to be real she would not risk her stability and health to pursue her goals, which is probably why she hasn’t achieved very many of them at all.

If someone asked them to explain their sexuality, how would they do so?

she’d just say she’s straight. aside from the fact that she’s never had a crush in her life.

QUESTIONS FOR CREATORS

A) Why are you excited about this character?

she provides a kind of one sane man archetype to the rest of the plot, so in that way her dynamic in the larger setting is going to be fun. also, she has major chardev ahead of her.

B) What inspired you to create them?

well, the need for a one sane man. also erich needed a therapist. no particular reason, i just wanted to write a determined, hardworking professional type of woman.

C) Did you have trouble figuring out where they fit in their own story?

nope, she fits in rather smoothly. i love her ; she’s my least problematic oc.

D) Have they always had the same physical appearance, or have you had to edit how they look?

i think she might be the only oc who’s appearance hasn’t changed much at all. she was a little shorter when she started i think, now she’s the tallest of all my ocs in this story.

E) Are they someone you would get along with? Would they get along with you?

we’d be very good friends. in my opinion, she’s a pretty darn valid person to have on your side. smart, caring to a degree without being too emotional. just, a cutie.

F) What do you feel when you think of your OC (pride, excitement, frustration, etc)?

pride. she’s gonna do such amazing things in her life, and in the story. god bless.

G) What trait of theirs bothers you the most?

she’s so self-doubting and passive for the first half or so of the story. it’s her character so i can’t really fault her for not having a bigger role in the first bit but uggh she’s got potential she just runs away from anything risky.

H) What trait do you admire most?

she’s the reasonable one. the person that sees through almost all of the bullshit and mind games the protags play with each other. the people on her team would be straight up be dead if not for her. also she’s just a cutie please.

I) Do you prefer to keep them in their canon universe?

you know what i’m gonna say.

J) Did you have to manipulate or exclude canon factors to allow them to create their character?

mostly related to the roommate. her roommate sort of shapes her initial dislike for jamie in a way too. also i had to switch up a coupla timelines to make her story possible.

#realmzenith #oc talk.

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stevecanmakeanythingnerdy · 4 years

Text

Battle #14

Streetheart: Under Heaven Over Hell ( Side Two )

Vs.

The Ramones: Subterranean Jungle ( Side Two )

Streetheart: Under Heaven Over Hell ( Side Two )

Streetheart is a Canadian rock band, originally from Regina, Saskatchewan but now based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This is their second album, and immediately after it’s release 2 members dropped out to join Loverboy. Despite tours with several large hard rock contemporaries like Rush, A/C D/C, and Toronto, the band just didn’t catch on here in the U. S. They have achieved much success in Canada and are more widely recognized there. The label must have thought highly enough of the band to have Hipgnosis (a popular art collective known for album art) work on the cover. I have to admit that I was a little let down. I had never heard of this band and took a gamble expecting rock. I was not wrong but I was surprised by the slight disco influence that seems to present itself. “Star” is the first track and it has disco beats over easy. Cowbell, so some redemption but... it is a very average sounding rocker. “Whose Turn is it Tonight?” Has the making of a single but STILL has those disco bass-ics. Piano meets guitar at studio 54. Here is a sample lyric: “you wanna step outside and fight?” Imagine it rhymed with the title. You get it. It does miraculously get badass the 2nd go around. Speedy and honestly should be the entire song. “Here Comes the Night” has the makings of a ballad. It reminds me of Lonestar. The Welsh band, not the country band. Also the lead singer is a Kim Carnes sounding dude. The last track is “Under my Thumb”. Yes it’s a Stones cover-which apparently got the band some airplay and attention at the time. I should have guessed. I’m not a big stones fan (early stuff, yes, fine) so it only makes sense this band would be influenced by them. Strangely the singer’s voice works for it pretty well. It is a decent version of the tune but I just hate the Stones. Effort is there but to me it’s just meh. Honestly, the pins have been set up for The Ramones, they just have to knock them down.

The Ramones: Subterranean Jungle ( Side Two )

If you’ve read this blog long enough then you know how disappointed I would be if you don’t know who The Ramones are. In fact, you should be ashamed of yourself. But just in case, I will bring you up to speed. Here’s what you need to know: New York City, 1974, fathers of modern pop punk and punk rock in general (although some may argue bands like The Stooges and MC5 helped start that engine). Oh yeah and 1-2-3-4! As in 4 is the maximum number of chords The Ramones use. All of the band members adopted pseudonyms ending with the surname "Ramone", although none of them were biologically related. They were inspired by Paul McCartney of The Beatles, who would check into hotels as "Paul Ramon". Here’s an impressive statistic, they performed 2,263 concerts, touring virtually nonstop for 22 years. Beat that, other bands!!! By the time Subterranean Jungle came out, The Ramones were well established and total machinery at what they do. I’m unclear, as I have never bothered to check, but I am fairly certain none of their albums break the 45 minute mark start to finish. Think 60s pop stripped down, sped up and no commercials in between. The Ramones are also offering up side two today. In my opinion it includes some of 1983’s sleeper hits. One of them is “Psycho Therapy”. I have covered this song and would cover again. It’s flawlessly catchy and succinct. The juxtaposition of the very fast chorus, with the drawn out phrasing of “Psssyyyychooo, Thhheerrraapppy” are prefect. They have a replicated formula for a reason. “Time Has Come Today” is a cover of the Chambers Brothers (? I believe?) classic song about war vets returning, only to be homeless and disrespected. It is a sad tale, and Joey puts a spin on it that warrants the sadness it inspires. It is a bit long for their typical fanfare. It’s okay though because it’s followed by “My-My Kind of a Girl”. A classic Ramones style crooner. There is plenty of tambourine action for you Monkees freaks out there too. In my opinion it’s a big hit buried on the back 9. There is an unusual fake ending that the band generally strays from. Branching out I suppose. At any rate, we head back to pop punk with “In the Park”. Hang out with the gang and have fun, in this quick New York minute trick. “Time Bomb” comes up next and by this point it should be fairly obvious that the Ramones have no clunkers. I don’t even think it’s possible...and it’s all because of the chord elimination! They have uncovered the secret to success!! Fewer chords = greater velocity, which in turn = mega hits!! Actually this one is very mid tempo so maybe not. Or maybe The Ramones just understood that simplicity is better. Ok, ok, ok, so next up is possibly the weirdest, longest, and most unique Ramones title ever. Ready? “Every Time I Eat Vegetables it Makes Me Think of You”. Yes. You know what though? IT’S STILL A PRETTY GREAT SONG!!! It’s a sentimental song that self describes. As is often the case, Joey makes war references, usually WW2. He’s kind of like....just an old republican dude. But they’re the masters of current pop punk so Gabba Gabba hey! What can you do?! This was the last album to officially chart for the band and is coming considered by many to be a return to form after the over the top production of Phil Spector and stray from punk standards on the two preceding albums. Additionally, the cover art is so obviously fake... it’s kind of like photoshop, but before photoshopping exists. (*holds hand up to face to whisper) I guess somebody should have called up Hipgnosis... it’s hilarious though. Love it and love this band.

Today’s matchup saw Streetheart under heaven, but over hell. They burned 122 calories over 19 minutes and 4 songs. That’s a total of 30.50 calories burned per song and 6.42 calories burned per minute. Streetheart earned 6 out of 12 possible stars. The Ramones fought their way out of a Subterranean Jungle (via the subway it seems). They burned 125 calories over 18 minutes and 6 songs. They burned an average of 20.83 calories per song and 6.94 calories per minute. The Ramones earned 15 out of 18 possible stars. Jungle or not, The Ramones are the kings of it today!

The Ramones: “Psycho Therapy” Both live and the official video, because I’m Psycho!

Live. https://youtu.be/VtoD7_lJuF8

Video. https://youtu.be/bej93aPldHE

#Randomrecordworkoutseasonseven

#Randomrecordworkout

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ghaw2007 · 6 years

Text

9 Testosterone Boosters

1. Intermittent Fasting

The first of the natural testosterone boosters is intermittent fasting. One of the biggest intermittent fasting benefits? It’s been shown to increase testosterone by nearly 200 percent or even up to 400 percent. (4) In addition, a study by the University of Virginia Medical School noted that growth hormone levels increased 2,000 percent over the baseline in men who ate no calories for 24 hours, and growth hormone levels are correlated with testosterone. (5)

Intermittent fasting basically means you skip breakfast, and you eat your meals closer together. You’ll eat three meals per day: one at noon, one at 3 p.m. and your last meal around 6 p.m. That allows your organs to rest, especially your liver, which is so crucial for naturally balancing hormones, especially testosterone.

2. Heavy Weight Training + Interval Training

If you want to naturally boost testosterone and HGH then combining weight training with HIIT workouts (high intensity interval training). Go to the gym at least three days a week, ideally at least three days a week, and lift heavy weights. Lifting heavy weights 6–12 reps with larger muscle groups like your quadriceps, hamstrings, back, shoulders and chest will help your body pack on the maximum amount of muscle. Specifically, lifting at least 30 minutes up to as long as an hour or so can be very, very beneficial boost low testosterone levels.

Researchers at Ball State University found that “strength training can induce growth hormone and testosterone release.” (6) Another study from the University of Nebraska Medical Center researched the acute effects of weight lifting on serum testosterone levels. (7) The results concluded that even moderate weight lifting and light weightlifting increased serum testosterone levels in participants.

In addition to weight training, combining this with interval training like burst training is the best overall combo to increase HGH. In fact, burst training has been proven to not only boost T-levels, it helps keeps your testosterone elevated and can prevent its decline. Burst training involves exercising at 90–100 percent of your maximum effort for a short interval in order to burn your body’s stored sugar (glycogen), followed by a period of low impact for recovery.

This causes your body to burn fat for the next 36 hours to replace your body’s vital energy stores. It addition to increasing your T-levels, it can help burn between 3–9 times more fat, lower your resting heart rate, lower blood pressure, keep your brain young by increasing circulation, and aids in detoxification by stimulating the lymphatic system.

3. Healthy Fats

Step three is to add a lot of healthy fats in your diet. Most men with low testosterone consume too much junk food and too many carbohydrates. You have to get rid of those empty calories and load up on healthy fat.

A study published in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry studied the effects of diet on serum sex hormones in healthy men. Results showed that when men decreased their healthy fat intake, serum concentrations of androstenedione, testosterone and free testosterone also decreased. (8) This indicates you can add low testosterone to the list of low-fat diet risks.

There are three categories of healthy fat. Number one is healthy saturated fat. The truth about saturated fat is it’s actually good for you if it’s the proper kind. Healthy saturated fat is found in coconut oil and raw, fermented dairy products like goat milk kefir, yogurt, or raw goat or sheep milk cheese. However, avoid conventional dairy because it will actually damper your testosterone.

The other type of fat you need is healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming benefit-rich salmon a couple times a week or adding a quality fish oil supplement is great. Flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts are also great for low testosterone as you get those omega-3s.

Finally, monounsaturated fats can be natural testosterone boosters. Consuming an avocado a day or some olive oil and almonds really helps get those healthy fats that can help you naturally boost your testosterone levels.

4. Liver Detox

The next step on the natural testosterone boosters scale is to embark on a liver cleanse. Your liver is so crucial to testosterone levels. When your liver does not function optimally, it affects your testosterone output. That’s because the liver holds an enzyme that conjugates the 17beta-hydroxyl group of testosterone. (9)

A study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology notes that “serum testosterone is reduced in up to 90 percent of men with cirrhosis, with levels falling as liver disease advances.” (10) This shows just how vital liver health is to your testosterone, and countless studies verify the effects of liver function on testosterone.

5. Stress Reduction

For most men with low testosterone, if you struggle with frustration, unforgiveness, anger issues, those things all drop your testosterone levels over time. It’s one of the ways chronic stress is killing your quality of life.

Mental and physical stress can be quite therapeutic and is actually necessary for the body. The problem is when you are chronically stressed and your body gets stuck in the state where it’s pumping out cortisol (the “stress” hormone) nonstop.

A 2010 study published in the journal Hormones and Behavior first suggested this when researchers evaluated the “dual-hormone hypothesis” clinically. (11) They discovered that when cortisol is elevated, testosterone responds by elevating as well but soon after bottoms out at a much lower level than before cortisol kicked in! That means you want to find ways to bust stress to keep your testosterone levels up.

6. Vitamin D

One of the most important nutrients that can help boost testosterone levels is vitamin D3. In 2011, the results of a study published in the journal Hormone and Metabolic Research announced that vitamin D supplementation boosts testosterone naturally in overweight men by up to 30 percent. (12) This is pretty exciting because research has shown that vitamin D3 is also linked to helping to prevent and treat cancer! (13)

If you have vitamin D deficiency symptoms, it will absolutely crush your testosterone levels. So you want to get out in the sun 20 to 30 minutes every day to detox your body with the sun and get that all-important vitamin D.

Any day that you don’t get 20 minutes of direct sunlight on your skin, you want to supplement with 5,000 IUs of vitamin D3. If you get your blood levels tested and you’re extremely low — below 50 IUs — you typically want to do 5,000 IUs twice a day for three months until you get those numbers up. You can do everything in the world, but if your vitamin D levels aren’t right, your testosterone levels will stay low.

A few other supplements that can help include adaptogenic herbs that lower cortisol, like ginseng. Ginseng benefits healthy testosterone levels. In fact, research from the University of Hong Kong unveiled that ginseng increased testosterone levels in rats, making it yet another natural testosterone booster. (14)

7. Kick the Sugar Habit

If you want to normalize your hormone levels and naturally boost your testosterone, the first thing you need to do is kick the sugar habit immediately. It has been reported that the average American takes in 12 teaspoons of sugar a day (about two tons of sugar in a lifetime), and sugar has been linked to depleting T-levels in several ways.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), for example, type II diabetics are twice as likely to develop low T-levels. Here’s how it works:

When you eat a diet rich in processed grains and sugars, your blood glucose levels become chronically elevated.

To help keep blood sugar levels from going haywire, your pancreas starts to work overtime to produce insulin, which helps transport the sugar from the bloodstream into your cells to be metabolized for energy.

Ultimately, if your cells are exposed to insulin for extended periods, you develop insulin resistance, which causes type II diabetes.

Once diabetes develops your body isn’t able to produce the right levels of testosterone as it should, and the ADA recommends that diabetics get their T-levels checked by their doctor if they start to develop any of the symptoms that I mentioned above.

If you can follow these steps, you are going to see great results in naturally boosting your testosterone levels.

8. Get Quality Sleep

According to an article from the journal Current Opinion of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity, getting enough sleep and at the right times are two of the most effective natural ways to raise testosterone. (15) Most people require around 7 hours of sleep every night, and it’s critical to take advantage of the 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. window.

Your body’s circadian rhythm essentially resets itself every night and releases chemicals like cortisol, which contribute to the overall hormone balance that can prevent low T-levels. I have even heard one endocrinologist claim that one hour of sleep between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. has the same healing effects on your body as two hours of sleep before or after this timeslot!

So ideally, go to bed around 10 p.m. and wake up around 6 a.m. for optimal hormone balance.

9. Lower Body Fat Percentage

In the words of Dr. Gary Wittert – Head of the School of Medicine at the University of Adelaide, Australia – weight loss has a predictable and linear relationship with increased testosterone naturally. (16)

When you consider the effects that insulin resistance and poor sleeping habits have on testosterone, this makes perfect sense because they are all closely knit together with obesity. At the core of this issue is cutting out processed sugars from your diet, which has been linked to insomnia, obesity, diabetes and countless hormone disorders.

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Pengator Musings and In-Game Scribbles

Nashville Predators vs Pittsburgh Penguins Game Six June 12, 2017

Penguins lead best-of-seven three games to two

Missed it? Musings capture the game in writing. A written transcript typed during the game, posted and edited about thirty minutes afterward. Based on the RDS French telecast of the Montreal Canadiens game (or some anglo sourced playoff game), Musings take about 23 minutes to read. More detailed than an article, fresher than a looping highlight and good with morning coffee. Or late-night Coke. A unique way to re-experience the game.

(Nashville) - Star defender Ryan Ellis remains questionable for tonight's game. Scott Oake, at rinkside, says his absence would mean a step closer for Pittsburgh to raise the Stanley Cup at Bridgestone Arena tonight.

Subban is shown waiting for everyone to leave the ice after the warmup and he lofts a puck into the empty Pittsburgh net. Reminds me of a similar Montreal tradition that led to a pre-period fight against the Flyers. Playoffs. Late eighties. Two Flyers diving out to prevent the superstitious shot, clean ice glistening. And then the fight.

Chico Resch, backup goalie for the Flyers, was one of those black-clad Philadelphians.

Only a maximum of four games a year are games where the Stanley Cup might be awarded at game's end. This season, the maximum is two. Tonight, the Penguins could lift. Should Nashville win (and they will), game seven on Tuesday would be the second award night. It would almost certainly be awarded that night.

Hey, an OT could go on forever. Couldn't it.

Outdoor Tennessee. A band on Broadway, the sun setting. The lead singer wears a "SMASH" hat, grey fronting, yellow lettering, and white mesh rear. It's a country song.

A shot of a Penguin (possibly Crob) wearing a Stanley Cup-shaped bunch of words. Compete Level. Chip it in. Blah, blah. It's a nice shirt.

It's a huge crowd, subdued for now. Nashville faces elimination for the first time these playoffs. They won series one 4-0 over Chicago Blackhawks. They led 3-1 before eliminating the Blues in six. They drowned the Ducks in six, never behind.

Back in the arena we hear "Let's go Preds!"

Cherry stands, wearing a star-blotched suit, blue. White stars. Cherry backs off on his pick. He said that he originally picked Pens to win in six but he's gotta change his pick. I respect the shift. He says if Ellis plays the whole game (Ellis skated in the warm-ups) and with this crowd ... Nashville will win.

Pens look relaxed in their hallway. Preds look fearful, hesitant in theirs. Nerves. Rinne is one of the last to join the team and he effects a hockey nerve and near-arrogance his teammates need to see.

The Preds have impressed in many ways this playoff. Passing short. Passing long. Quickness. Powerful pace. But deeper than that, something we've only sensed, something we'll see demonstrated tonight, is the team's character.

Ellis is introduced first. He doesn't look himself and takes a sour breath and glances askance. But he'll play.

We're reminded the Cup is in the building.

The (fucking) Cup was in the building that dark night in 1989, too. The only time a visiting team held the trophy aloft on Montreal ice.

Faith Hill sings the anthem. It has nothing to do with the game and only distracts a purist, puck professor or student of the game. Get rid of it. These useless intrusions in our games. They're our games.

Not anybody else's. Certainly not yours.

Murray has a good angle and could knock Hill down. Send a clear message. Matt Murray. Their goalie. There's a fucking "honour guard". Dishonour guard.

Now we must welcome Tim McGraw. He waves two towels and the crowd appears to appreciate it.

Broadway is jammed from end to end if the heliphotos are, um, real.

They are.

Pekka Rinne and Matt Murray are the goalies.

Rinne was pulled in an eventual 7-0 loss last game. But he's back.

First Period Nashville 0, Pittsburgh 0

Crob wins the draw. They bump into one another early and the keystone komedy leads to an unwarranted Pittsburgh entry down the right. Rinne is ready for the less-than-savage shot.

Subban advances four feet past their blue. Murray gets a piece of it with his right pad.

On the other end a mild puck is stopped and held.

The replay of the Kaper shows Josi falling for no reason. Like a scared seven year-old. Why.

Technology can't be-foul me. Neither must hockey art.

Nineteen oh eight left in the first period.

Malkin and Fisher are drawing to Rinne's left.

Subban low.

Coffee is good, at least. I'll be up late long past the game, anyway.

On a different sleep sked.

Puck is into the Penguins zone.

Neither team can show their style. Even the Pens’ languid approach appears more investigative than fearful or detached.

The Predators must begin to breathe. And they do. Fisher is in their middle deep area and shoots. It's into glass and then he turns, the puck far from him. But Josi offers a solid check.

The Predators’ bold cross-town passing game has been slowed or redirected by a fast-checking Penguin team that's matched the Preds' movements with, at times, intrepid commitment.

Preds push in. Chance. Gloved and retained.

Faceoff.

Over sixteen.

The puck ends up on the boards.

The crowd mocks in their purposeful way

PPG Arena interior is shown; filled with Penguin fans. It's pretty cool, yo. Seriously. In 1982, many couldn't have imagined such a thing.

Dead catfish on the ice.

Six tonight according to CBC's (cute) Catfish Counter.

They're tossed down by fans. Florida fans tossed plastic rats onto the surface during their team's improbable run to the final in 1996 (an eventual 4-0 loss to Colorado Avalanche. Roy's Avalanche. The year he was traded. Ya. Mhm.)

I sigh.

Subban hasn't been prominent in the finals nor has he been absent or, worse, a liability. He's played within the system. But he's got room to rake risk. Perhaps he hasn't taken enough?

I'd have to watch some of these games again (and I likely will this summer).

Fifteen oh two.

Another chant.

Sent down. Forsberg, a turning hash shot. Murray is his rubber-legged self.

I quite like him.

He looks on the verge of catching pneumonia, he's bearded, scruffly, too thin and rather inelegant. On the ice he's swift, economical, bent, low and rather seventies in his wide stance. Pads make the man large.

Thirteen and ten.

Like most of the modern goalies, Murray will rest a pad on the ice while guarding a post. It's a current notion. I don't like it. And I think in the coming years it will be shown to be a liability.

Of course, goalies are only getting bigger. And the net stays the same size. Styles are moot when size is prominent. When are they gonna increase the rink size?

The net size discussion is nearly a sacrosanct one.

Banker's crumbs. "You're richer than you think." Condescending. Infuriating. They're far richer than WE think.

Shania Twain is in the rink. Now she's shown. We're told CBC will speak with her later. (I'd say "in the telecast" but this isn't a telecast. Is it.)

Talking to musicians during the Stanley Cup. What have we come to.

The Cup was once held under a trusteeship. And a non-NHL team challenged for it as late as 1952. Around that time, the trusteeship was officially turned over to the NHL. Never should have happened. The Cup is Canada's. Not some league's.

During the lockout of 2004-05, the season canceled, a group of dandies organized and suggested they could put the Cup on offer for other challengers. The league took immediate legal action to quash this.

Leagues are good for a few things. But they're not needed.

How about a rink where anyone could show up any time, 24-hour telecast, a camera on at all times. They just suit up and things happen. Anyone.

Sure schedules are nice. Websites.

But people – fans, would pay players, regardless. And people could organize the rest. Without these mediocre Animal Farm men of money.

Pace increases. Eight and forty.

This game searches for its mood much like a game seven. The Preds aren't sure who to be in this sixth match. And that's unusual.

As I'd said, they haven't faced elimination at all this playoff (yes, I like saying that ... 'this playoff'). And not having faced hockey death, they.... well. May not know as a group who and how.

And so forth.

A Cowboy rolling around the ground (Staubach in thrall), Reggie Miller missing a whole bunch of first quarter shots against the Sixers (Finals-bound) in the first round of the NBA 00-01 playoffs and a humid Als team slowly pulling away at home against a visiting Eskimo team (Ricky Ray in his second pro start) in 2002. These are some of the recent images ingested.

By me.

And now you're all gonna pay. I've been watching a lotta random tape and YouTube. The usual leagues.

CBC shows the verbal exchange between Ekholm and Hornqvist (last game). There's hope for the world, says Hughson. Or Simmy. The exchange, a fight request turned down, was polite.

Ellis looks his usual self. Hagelin is expunged on the hash. Then a puck is cleared deep.

Blowout responses are shown. In 2017, three six-plus losses led to wins in the next games for the losers. But the Preds are the most tentative of each of these teams. Ottawa. Edmonton. Anaheim. Each rebounded with early emotion and intensity.

It's worrisome. If you're concerned about Nashville.

Delayed call. Pittsburgh. Rinne leaves the net. No chances. Puck is touched. Nashville power.

Jim Hughson. “First goal could be important”. I type and then edit some tart remarks. I mean, c'mon.

Ninety seconds later, a cleared puck ends the first sequence. Then the Preds lose it on the deep hash, left.

Lines change.

Järnkrok. Arvidsson.

I struggle with getting closer to the game, myself.

The distance keeps me from staring at the screen too long, allowing the old habit of staring at the words on the laptop.

But I finally suck it up and stay on the main screen. Penalty ends.

Subban round his net.

Players have superstitions. And, more comically perhaps, so do fans.

How can a viewer believe their coffee mug influenced a game's outcome, thousands of miles away. Yet some do. Guilty as charged. It’s in my past now.

Players, invested in intricate daily patterns encompassing meal-times, sleep-times, practice and all manner of preparation (video, nutrition, exercise) and playing as many games as they do (82 a season) can't know precisely which detail led to the win or which didn't. Coaches break down film to show exactly why and how. But players are left with mystery. Why did the puck go in THAT time? And not THAT one.

And so, some pay attention to details they CAN understand. That perhaps, they CAN control. Tie up the left skate first. Spit out your gum before you take the ice. Cuz the last time I did, we won. The last time I did, I had a goal. And so forth. Until the pattern leads to nothing. Or worse. Then the pattern is changed.

Three and twelve.

Clark should join me in due course. Here in this musing station. This fairly comfortable basement. Clark Kent, we call him.

Puck stays on the boards.

I can't believe it’s scoreless. Penguins are waiting to lose this game. And the Preds don't know how to take it. This has happened before this series. Pendead hockey and Predator Hezator. Their puma pause.

Now they rise. A shot. Murray, across. Around the boards. Crowd the maw. Murray has it.

Neal saw the puck emerge off a skate on the crease lip and got too little on it.

Lotta tough talk from the Canadian usuals, both teams. But when the fire is needed; ... like now ... where are they. Where is Neal. Where is Cullen.

Rinne save. Shifted right, table-hockey style, and he stops the low slot shot next.

Hagelin.

Faceoff to his right. Forty-five point eight.

Entry. Wind-up. Slapper. And the high glove.

Cherry remains sharp. How does he do it. He's earned back a chunk of my respect these playoffs. Like that better? He's been fair. He's been big-hearted. He's been apologetic. Both directly and in his way.

Crob fires a "rocket" and Rinne got the glove on it. He looks normal again. Getting pulled is part of the game. But it's hard to manage. Even to discuss from a distance. At least for this scribe.

First Intermission Nashville 0, Pittsburgh 0

Coaching kickers. Coaching keyboardists. Can it be done?

In decades past, they'd say no. Nowadays, kickers and punters, both have position coaches. Keyboardists? Well. Just ride in the other bus, son.

PJ Stock was in line to be the next Cherry. CAN there be a next Cherry? Probably not. CBC has personalities and people who can fill the void. They'll take it in another direction. And they should. Stock, among others, was let go a year ago. Stock was wearing the Cherry high collars and saying unprovable things. He’s likeable but the schtick wore thin. He also appeared regularly (and in galling fashion) on Reseau Des Sports (the French TSN).

Ron asks (and leads) Don with questions about the tenor, the events.

Cherry wishes Nashville had gotten a goal. He adds that Pittsburgh seems loosey-goosey. Both agree. Preds are nervous.

Cherry is fighting a cold, I'll guess. He's a bit pale and clearing his throat often.

Earlier today or yesterday, Cherry got down to Predator practice.

He hands the mike around and Nashville players and coaches greet their families. Two Finns, too. Yup. Don is, what, showing his true colours? Or evolving. I'll say the former. His irritating brand of bombast (the one we're used to) has long hidden a fine hockey mind; opinions that don't match with his public ones.

Kids ask for specific bedtime stories. To be read in the prescribed manner; the tones and exclamations or possible asides (footnotes, appendices) to be identical to the last reading to a well-remembered ideal reading performance. Parents know. And to deviate (in any way; omission, increased speed or absent accents) is to be told to repeat the passage correctly.

Kids choose the feelings they'll feel in this way. They'll choose, say, three books, three distinct feelings, to close out the day. It's a prescribed experience. And nothing wrong with it. We do the same; a favourite song. A favourite recipe. (A favourite taped game)

But in watching THESE games, THESE narratives, particularly playoff narratives is a risk. Having seen so many games (as many of us have) we know what an ideal game one feels like, looks like. Same with game two, three and on down the line. We know what surges and drops to expect.

But games and series rarely match the ideal pattern we (might) demand. Games disappoint, bore or appall.

This game leaves me with an electric disdain.

(Another catfish)

This game isn't the three-nothing first-period jump from Nashville I expected. And that changes what I might expect from game seven. If there's a game seven. It changes everything.

And that's as it should be. So should I demand a retelling of the tale?

I sigh and consider my hundreds of taped games, a collection begun in 1986, made up of CFL, NHL, NFL and NBA games. And some boxing.

Second Period Pittsburgh 0, Nashville 0

Murray gloops one. It falls. Whistle. The puck rolls. And it's poked in. Crowd reacts. Of course it won't count. We all heard the whistle.

Forsberg, deep on the left, his offwing

Wait. Whistle was mistaken. Should have counted. Sissons was robbed.

And there's nothing they can do. Fisher is arms spread and irate. Fans swear at volume. Nothing in the rules to save it.

We saw an early whistle in the Pens-Caps series that cost Ovechkin and company a late crease jam-session that could have led to a tying goal. But no.

I'd like to say "that's hockey". Or "that's sports". But I can't. I won't. It's preventable. THAT. Was preventable.

Thaaaattt. Is the question. Did you like Hamlet? My colleague Columbo hates Hamlet. Mostly cuz Hamlet the character pisses him off. Too hesitant or something.

Another shot. More booing. Murray silts it about in his glove before handing it over.

I wonder if the context will prod reach the Predators. But they're on their own. It' a rare hockey crowd that cheers or exhorts when the team needs it. Most cheer or exhort after the team has produced something desirable. Nashville fans, still relatively new to the game (the team entered the NHL in 1998), is still capable of original encouragement. Surge times unique.

They're not on offer just now.

So many problems with the Rogers set-up. Like Microsoft they don't have to compete. They just protect their monopoly. Funny that Conservative parties claim to be pro-business. Pro-competition. They're just pro-monopoly. Pro-collusion. Too scared to compete legitimately in their own lives (they cheat or lean) they support the very same mediocre or worse entities in their policies. Pill-pushers. Lard-gurglers.

Three and a half gone.

Rinne looks sharp. His movements are Price-like tonight, ahead or flush with the play, each movement precise and no more than needed. No panic. Rinne isn’t a panicked goalie, typically. He just moves like Price tonight.

Save. Save. Move. Save. Slide. Rise. Save.

Nashville two-on-one.

Rinne has helped write the emotional texturing for his team.

Tripping. Sheary. Arvidsson goes to the dressing room. To be checked.

Preds power.

C'mon PK. Then the camera shows the young fella. He's on with Ellis on the blue, Ellis, a rightie on the left point.

Forsberg. Colin Wilson. Fisher. Unusual first trio.

But it's been earned (or lost; or both).

First entry is rebuffed.

Hainsey interrupts. Quick return. Forsberg, perhaps their most dangerous shooter just sends it wide of the post, to Murray's left.

Another failure.

Now they set up. Sissons. Järnkrok. Neal. Ekholm on the blue. Ekholm has it. Poised. Twenty seconds. They're set up for the first time in a long time.

But the passes aren't quick. Nor precise. Out of character, the team surrenders another failed power-play.

Beards don't win playoff games.

Hughson notes Forsberg's shot was dangerous.

Commercial.

Future generations (and there should be, Kim Jong-Il or no) will disdain airbrushing and gloss. They'll call it evil. These faux pleasant car commercials. [Ed note: It's Kim Jon-un, now]

Thirteen oh two.

Crob. Hagelin. Crob. Shot. Pad extended. Rinne is the team's heart. When he's on, the team feels safe. And the rest works. How many times has the Predator squad saved Pekka Rinne these playoffs? When he's off? Once, maybe. I think none.

Twelve and twenty-six.

Rinne is thirty-four years old and is, at times, the best goalie in the world. For most of these playoffs he was. But the finals changed that. The Penguins and their sinister backhand shots changed that. Rinne and his unit allowed eight goals on the thirty-six first shots against after entering at about 0.935. Since then, the Predators have fluctuated. Good. Tentative. Great. Error-prone. Relaxed. Hurried.

Prior, they were one tone. One sound. A grand electric symphony, fat, shimmering, patriot yellow. Tweed country.

Ten and fifty-five.

They could be again but it won't be sustained. The Penguin limousine has rolled onto their countryside. This series will remain unique among Nashville's four chapter-sets.

Still scoreless.

Malkin and Sissons to Rinne's left. Malkin, a cursory gesture. Into the back boards. Penguins briefly control.

Where are the Penguins.

Sissons. A man just behind him. We wait. We wait. Sissons fakes and then tries the left pad. No.

On the other end, long diagonal passes stretch and shrink the icy floor. Rinne matches. Ligament and length.

More Pens.

Munged up.

Five Pens return and keep the puck on the boards.

Lines change. Fresh birds.

Penguins lead on shots ten to six.

Crowd begins another chant.

Whistle. Hand-pass. Crosby.

Murray got across for Sissons’ deke and shoot. Sissons was too slow.

Clark should be by shortly. And possibly Mook.

Eight and seventeen.

Sheary tries to get around Josi. Around the net they go. Sheary gets the step and keeps the puck but can't control for a shot.

Hughson says Crosby has it from his office as Crob views action from under the end line to Rinne's right. That's not quite his office. (One of his known “sweet spots” is next to the post, at their end-line, back to the boards.)

Mookie arrives. I let him in and set him up. You know. Beverage.

Shot. Murray. Arvidsson slams the glass in irritation.

Mookie says the TV is high-tech. Merci.

Arvidsson was upset because he couldn't get enough on the puck. Preds lead on faceoffs 20-11. At least they've fixed that from last series. Of course, this series' matchups are different. I chuckle.

Left side entry. Murray mops. Some words, Kunitz and Smith.

Faceoff to Murray's right. Three on two, Pens.

Slot chance. Mookie says "it's a goal". But for a leg.

Mookie asks me about Crosby's "tremendous game", mentioning the Kid's three assists. I say it wasn't a tremendous game, rather Crosby had a great first eight minutes. Maybe three, four shifts. post. A drawn or caused penalty. A goal. A near goal. And then a settling into his usual game.

He won't do that again this series, I say.

Three and thirty-six.

I ask Mookie if he saw the Cleveland game. He hadn't and I inform him the Cavs set an NBA Final (perhaps playoff) record with 86 first-half points. En route to staving off a sweep. Mookie asks if I think they can maintain this erection for the rest of the playoffs. What.

I ask him again. Ya. He said it. Hey, sports and sex don't mix. Mookie finds my churl amusing.

Slot. Mookie exhorts Preds to shoot. They do. Into bodies. Then a long puck and whistle.

Mookie reminds me that the Cavs came back from 3-1 down last season. I remind him that the personnel are different this season. Still, I wonder. And I really don't know.

Watching the Sixers and Pacers last night, I found I could follow. The movements and patterns were predictable. I could better understand what I was seeing. What is the change that I can't understand the game anymore? Today's game.

Sullivan calls timeout.

Pens. On-ice din. Jerseys shimmer. Ding. Pinkkk! But nothing certain. No doom.

Then the puck is back out.

Twenty seconds.

Pens can't prong it into their ice. And the period winks out.

Second Intermission Nashville 0, Pittsburgh 0

Friedman says it should have been a goal, adding nobody feels worse about it than the ref that missed the call. The Sissons poke-in.

Mookie mentions that Moog was the goalie in 90 and 88 (for Bruins) when Edmonton won. Andy Moog and Grant Fuhr was once on that same Edmonton team, two Conn Smythe-calibre goalies on the same team.

Mookie insists that Kelly Hrudey was once an Oiler. A backup. In the nineties. Really?

CBC cameras roll. Musicians. Interviews. Cage the Elephant. This is a music town, alright.

Scott Oake is seated beside Shania Twain. She's ha a couple of beverages. “I'm so proud of our national sport in Canada!” Hilarious.

The earnest housewife. It's endearing because it's Shania. Timmins native. Scott talks about the new single. Shania’s eyes narrow as she expands on it. She claps and expresses delight.

So, a new album. Good, good. Shania Law.

Respect to housewives. If that's what they honestly wished and chose.

If.

The Sissons goal. He flopped forward, stomach poke at a roller across the blue-streak crease. And it went in. Ref lost sight of it and whistled immediately. Too bad.

Third Period Pittsburgh 0, Nashville 0

This Acer with its top-heavy monitor. Detachable. Techward awk.

These companies need more complex controls and regulations.

Mookie marvels again at the size of the crowd on Broadway. It’s curb to curb for blocks.

Mookie shows off his knowledge, mentioning Winnipeg's move to Phoenix, Quebec City's to Colorado, Hartford to Carolina and others. Mookie moved to Alberta from Africa in 1984, in time for the Oilers' big Cup win over the four-in-a-row Islanders. He's been Oil since. (He’s been a TO dude for maybe 25 years.

The Penguins seem absent. The Preds can't do much. The Penguins are absent offensively only, however. They're watching lanes and keeping the Preds from their floe.

Entry pass. Stood up.

Kunitz with an offwing shot. The Pens are playing a conservative brand normally seen when a team is short-handed. And they're playing it well. Now Yannick Weber. Keeps past the hash. Around the net to the other hash. And lost. But Wilson comes up with it. Pressed against he boards. Määttä took it away from him.

Shoot dat, says Mookie. We don't just want random shots, i say with some pepper. We want good ones.

Tocchet's tablet is away. Trainer a few feet to his right, towel on his shoulder. Good beard.

Preds get a shooting lane. Left point. Long shot. Stopped and retained. Mostly yellow in the crowd. Not quite Sea of White. But close. Sea of White was Winnipeg's legendary demo. It's not the same these days. But we'll see. Playoff appearance may evoke the same. We'll see.

Wilson. Walrus dribble from the corner. Three Preds behind their end line.

Penguins are happy to eschew offensive involvement. It's almost like a rope-a dope. Frustrate em frustrate em frustrate em. And then come out.

Also you're lulling them.

It's ugly.

Hainsey with a long point shot.

Stopped. Held.

It’s effective.

It's almost as if the Pens feel they can afford to play tied or from behind. Well maybe not from behind.

Post. Crossbar. Mookie says these guys aren't getting any luck, are they. Preds.

Kessel is an ex-Leaf, Mookie asks. Ya yp.. Ex-Bruin, too.

Four advance. Pat the hash. But Rinne is there.

We return to the Preds yelling during commercial break. Their fans.

Thirteen and ten.

Ellis moves a man off the disc. Diagonal pass. Neal. Left hash. Retained. Whistle.

Faceoff to Murray's right.

Tinny Subdivisions tune on the organ. Cute.

Thirteen.

The old feelings come over me. In those days, this kind of score and circumstance would mean putting away the whistles. Määttä knocked Arvidsson over. Mookie says it shouldn't have been called. I saw tripping. Replay shows Mookie is right.

Faceoff to Murray's right. No matter, Sullivan is quiet. and the Preds go to power..

Diamond. Two in the low slot. Lotta bumping. Finally Neal falls over. Is he pretending? Shot into the back boards.

Ekholm.

Roman Josi. They work the umbrella. Ekholm, a blast. Off a body, high.

They move it. Mookie exhorts, looking for a set up. But the puck is out down the boards. Fifty seconds.

PK is on. Behind his net. He carries it out.

Be the hero? Or play the system.

Thirty-three.

They dig on the boards, deep left. Daley? What.

Five on three.

Let's see.

Roughing. Really, I say out loud.

Ok. Stick to the face (Ellis). Then a punch in the face. Ok.

There's been nothing against Preds? No calls? Yep, no calls against Nashville. This game will be interesting to re-watch..

Thirty-two seconds; two-man advantage.

Phil Housley. Shown behind the bench. Preds assistant. I remind Mookie of the 3-1 lead the Jets had over Oil in 1990. He smiles with some guilt and some joy. Edmonton came back to win the series. They went on to win the Cup.

Mookie asks about “the last Leaf coach”. I nod and smile. He means Carlyle. Mookie adds that he was the last to not wear a helmet. Carlyle was a Jet defenceman in 1990. [Ed note: Following Carlyle, the Leafs had a brief, horrifying period under Peter Horacek; 9-29-5 before Mike Babcock was hired for the 15-16 season.]

Back to five on four.

Ten and thirty-seven.

Ekholm and Josi.

Around the back boards. Josie advances. Backhander dig around the right.

They retain. Under a minute.

Cross-slot pass. No. Then a long shot. Murray finds it. How did he pick it up through all that traffic, asks Simmy.

Preds lead on shots seven to three. I wonder aloud where Clark is; is he at Contender? Mookie chuckles.

Thirty-one seconds in the power-play.

Offside entry.

I wonder what Laviolette is thinking. Saying.

He's got a knee up. He exhorts. The moment I wondered, the camera found him. I’m as Hindu as I need to be.

Twelve.

Subban. Left side. Lost on the hash. Kunitz clears it.

Nine and eleven.

Nashville is oh of four.

Twelfth time in SC final history that home team won first five games.

Long Predator puck. Touched.

Laviolette is still talking, more red-faced. Preds lead on faceoffs 33-16. Crob wins it. Powerful backhanded draw and the torqued puck eludes Crob’s defenceman on the right point. Pens manage a quick re-entry and shot. Rinne is adroit.

I must believe, must accept the score. It's zero-zero. How.

How many more hockey games am I going to (have to) see like this one? Enduring zero-zero is cool when you don't give a duck. When you’re half in, half-out. When the teams don’t matter. When the outcome isn’t meaningful.

Mookie raises a fist and mentions the "kid line". He just saw the irritating Simpleson. He should have stayed on the ice. Givin us nothin in the booth.

Seven and a half.

I do smell overtime, tho, Mookie says as his fingers tap with nerves or impatience on one of my steel lamps. Ting-ting-ting.

Preds control.

Off the post. High slot. Sissons.

Off the outside of the post to Murray's left, a one-timer.

Six oh three. Pass from the left point to Crob on the hash. Timely stick. Fisher. And the puck is up and out.

Could be worse. Imagine if the Sharks had somehow snuck in here.

Eight catfish, now. The catfish count graphic makes me smile.

Faceoff to Murray's left.

It's looking like one goal may be the ....

Swings of panic as the puck crosses the low slot. My own concentration improves as I see this.

Where IS Clark.

Five and twelve.

Clark Kent.

Sometimes Bruce.

Are we going to see changes from these teams or are we going to see the same styles of hockey replicated.

Four and thirty-one.

The puck remains on the boards. Suddenly a toothy blade appears at Murray's right and nearly pots it.

Then it's out. Shots are tied 27, each.

C'mon! I yell. Then I apologize.

It's too much.

Lemieux is shown in the upper level.

If that guy was healthy, he would have erased all of Gretzky's records, shares Mookie, a bit to my surprise.

Mookie yawns and I tell him it's not time to be tired. Under three.

Rinne waits on a long dribbler. He doesn't play it with a glove. He waits. Then sends it along its way behind his net. Preds carry it out.

Two and twenty.

I guess a clam-down would not have been wise.

Kunitz. Trying to get around Josi. Nope.

It feels like a Montreal moment and I accidentally exhort, "C'mon les boys”.

Hornqvist flukes one in. Dropped behind Rinne’s shoulder. From behind the end line. Ugly. Fortunate. Opportunistic.

Hockey shock on Ellis’ face. Same as Subban. The back board shot popped and was slapped in off Rinne's back.

This is why we don't like 0-0. This is why we don't like game sevens. Or game sixes like this one.

Laviolette will challenge. But there's nothing. Goaltender interference is what he’s looking for.

The Sissons non-goal looms larger.

Mookie says it's a waste of a challenge. I respond that they have to do it.

Clark calls to say he'll be by in fifteen.

Pittsburgh's arena is shown erupting.

Legal goal. Pittsburgh 1, Nashville 0

Ninety seconds.

Yeah, you have to take the goalie out, I answer Mookie. And Rinne soon leaves.

Offside entry.

Crowd is quiet. We can hear player voices.

Well. Stranger things have happened.

The crowd recovers. One and ten.

Just score.

If this. If that.

Rinne, mostly.

Into Penguin ice.

Just at the blue. Turned and shot. Long Penguin puck.

Forty-six point four.

Mookie messes around with my lamp. Removes the bulb to show (and remind me) it's a black light.

Hagelin gets free. Scores. Empty net.

Somebody kisses Mario. Looks like his mom. But it was on the lips.

It's not as bad as the Flames loss.

Malkin is feeling joy.

Crosby, arms up.

Pittsburgh 2, Nashville 0

A woman is red-faced and tears streaming down her cheeks. Predator jersey.

It could be worse, I think, even as I fill my den with some tart phrases and thoughts.

I wonder if Mookie has ever heard me talk like that.

Long puck. Turning shot. Three point one.

Penguins win the Cup. Predators win the trade.

They crowd together on the ice. Who's Kühnhackl? [Ed note: Tom Kühnhackl (born 21 January 1992) is a German ice hockey right winger who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL); from Wikipedia. And did you even care at that point?]

Letang is on the ice in uniform, I think.

No equipment.

Hugs.

Laviolette and Sullivan shake hands. What disparity.

Throughout, I think it could be much worse. The Penguins are acceptable. And it's easy to prove Crob wasn't the guy. Despite whatever awards are given.

Final Score Pittsburgh 2 Nashville 0

HDS Stars: Pekka Rinne, Matt Murray, Colton Sissons

Penguins are awarded the 16-17 Stanley Cup for scoring more goals in certain games.

They line up to shake hands.

Why is Letang in the handshake line? He didn't play.

Did he? [Ed note: No. You were there. He didn’t. Not a minute.]

The players hold up their sticks to their fans. Clapping. Penguins have to wait a few moments.

Penguins and another ugly goal. And another undeserved win.

Hornqvist says it's obviously the biggest goal he'll ever score

Sometimes the wrong team wins.

Guentzel deserves the Conn Smythe but they'll make sure to give it to Crob. It'll be undeserved. Just as last season's Conn Smythe was.

Hornqvist is shown crying shortly after the win. Seated on the team bench, time on the clock, yet.

Commissioner’s carpet. Bettman and his politics. Booing. He commends the town, their fans. He builds up to the MVP award.

Crosby is given the trophy. Conn. And it IS a con. The awarding of the Conn Smythe has been degraded in recent years. In order to present Crob as "the face of the league", Bettman and company have stooped to NBA levels. But purists tend to know this.

Pens are first repeat champs since 98's Red Wings.

Crob. And his legacy.

It'll take years to get close to a truthful narrative for the mainstream. But it'll happen.

Malkin nearly falls with the Cup. Holds on.

Malkin was also more valuable than Crob. Murray.

Mark Streit carries it.

Clark arrives. I set him up with red. Grapes.

Clark says it's too bad the best team didn't win. He says he hates it when that happens.

Clark sets up his USB stuff. I got some music for him.

Scott Oake says it's the most difficult trophy to win in all of sports. This leads to den derision and a series of questions from Mookie about minutes played by player (forwards 18 mins, say; defencemen 24 mins). Mookie cites soccer as an endurance piece.

Sullivan holds it up. Then Tocchet. Then Martin.

Is Sullivan the dumbest head coach to hold up the Stanley Cup? Possibly. Modern times, certainly. Lemme think on it.

Martin earns several loud cheers from the players for his hoist. Better believe he's the smartest guy on the coaching staff.

Mookie: “Somebody should be throwing a catfish on the celebrations there.”

Casual dress-shirted Mario Lemieux holds up the chalice. His now-thin frame, his rich smile. He owns 40% of the club; 25% is Ron Burkle.

Subban is interviewed. He's subdued and philosophical. He says there's been tears and that's how it should be. People cared.

Some of what he says is mildly contrived but a lotta Canadian kids get a free pass for that. He thinks they'll be back.

They won't.

I've thought that for some time.

Amber interviews the real Conn Smythe winner. Guentzel is young and grateful.

Pittsburgh is awarded the Stanley Cup after six games.

(This night’s musing features a mixture of Canadian and American English use.)

#Montreal Mystique #HDS #Homme de Sept-Iles #Pens #Preds #Stanley Cup #Musing #Musings and In-Game Scribbles #Penguins #NHL #Predators #PK Subban #Peter Laviolette #Evgeni Malkin #maple syrup #Gary Bettman #Stanley Cup playoffs #game summary

0 notes

rustytheshackleford · 7 years

Note

1-154

I’m adding a “keep reading” because this is a ton of questions!

1:Full name.

Rusty Shackleford aka Michael Chipz aka Wes Mantooth aka Ryan Pitts

2:Zodiac sign.

Libra

3:3 fears.

Dying alone, drowning, suffocating (any kind of death involving being unable to breathe, really), being killed by something I can’t see/being murdered in my sleep. I have a lot of death fears lol. I’m sure I have more fears than that, but I guess I’m also scared of the future and stuff that makes me anxious.

4:3 things I love.

Wrestling, Mega64, most of my family, my friends, video games, music, calmness and serenity, food, soda, soccer, football, sports in general, booty, curly hair, art, photography, art photography, cute girls, podcasting and just being a goof and making people laugh.

5:4 turn on’s.

I probably should have saved some of the things I love for this question lol. But yes, I love my a nice t h i c c booty or even a cute small one. I just love the booty, y’all. Praise be. I also like pale skin (I like everything though, don’t get it twisted. I think growing up with the goth/emo/scene subcultures has made me love girls that just don’t go out in the sun lol), curly hair, darker hair colors, when girls bite their lip, a sense of humor, athleticism, artsy girls, cute girls, girls that sing and/or play an instrument, Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Ramona Flowers, dirty talk, intimacy, and that’s about the extent I’ll disclose before potentially grossing out my irl friends and family with nsfw stuff lol.

6:4 turn off’s.

My turn-offs are pretty normal, tbh. Just smell good and express interest in me and you’re good.

7:My best friend?

I hate choosing just ONE best friend, but one of my oldest friends who I love very much is my buddy Hassan. We’ve been friends since the third grade.

8:Sexual orientation?

Straight yo, and I’ve had time to make sure that I am in my head haha.

9:My best first date?

I honestly haven’t really gone on too many first dates. I went on a pretty good date with the last girl I dated, so I guess that one. We met on Tinder, and after a few months of texting each other because she had to go back to her college class out-of-state shortly after we matched, we finally met in-person at this mall. It was really nice.

10:How tall am I?

5′9″

11:What do I miss?

I miss a lot of things. I miss not having to stress about things. I miss how the relationship with my family used to be before I went to college. I miss intimacy and kissing and boyfriend/girlfriend stuff. I miss the beach (luckily, I’ll be going to Florida in a few days!!!). I miss a lot of dead wrestlers, Eddie Guerrero especially. I miss my friend David who committed suicide in high school. I miss having more time to play video games and to goof off. I dunno. I just miss stuff.

12:What time was I born?

No clue. My mom doesn’t remember.

13:Favorite color?

Blue. Royal blue, specifically

14:Do I have a crush?

I have a million crushes. Mostly the girls that I follow on this site! I also have crushes on Becky Lynch, Alexa Bliss, Lorde, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Aubrey Plaza, that curly-haired chick from Broad City. What’s her name…? Ilana… (takes time to look up last name) Glazer! Yeah, she’s fine as hell.

15:Favorite quote?

“Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.”

“Ideas are bulletproof.”

I’m sure there’s a quote from wrestling that I’ll think of later

16:Favorite place?

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

17:Favorite food?

General Tso’s chicken with cashews

18:Do I use sarcasm?

Yup

19:What am I listening to right now?

In this very moment? The sound of my fan.

In terms of music I’ve been listening to? My friend let me borrow his copy of Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly, so I’ve been mainly listening to that. I also alternate between Humanz by Gorillaz and Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN.

20:First thing I notice in new person?

Their voice or face, I guess?

21:Shoe size?

10.5-11 U.S.

22:Eye color?

Brown

23:Hair color?

It fluctuates between a darkish brown to almost black

24: Favorite style of clothing?

I hate picking just one lol. If I had to pick one, I really dig how skaters dress. I’ve always been a fan since Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater.

25:Ever done a prank call?

I think so?

26:What color of underwear I’m wearing now?

Navy blue

27:Meaning behind my URL?

I really like the running gag from King of the Hill where Dale Gribble goes by the fake name Rusty Shackleford. Unfortunately, that username is taken, so I decided to stylize it like the Japanese metal band Maximum The Hormone, although I guess Shackleford The Rusty would fit that theme more? Oh well. I’m a brand now. I gotta maintain it.

28:Favorite movie?

Currently, it’s Pulp Fiction. It was V for Vendetta for the longest time. Yeah, I know. Shut up.

29:Favorite song?

I have so many. Forty Six and 2 by Tool is definitely one of my all-time favorites.

30:Favorite band?

Gorillaz and Tool are fighting for my top spot on a pretty consistent basis.

31:How I feel right now?

Mostly excited for my Florida trip!

32:Someone I love.

My siblings.

33:My current relationship status.

Single af

34:My relationship with my parents.

Fine, I guess?

35:Favorite holiday.

Christmas and Halloween

36:Tattoos and piercing I have.

None.

37:Tattoos and piercing I want.

I have no idea lol. I can’t think of anything that I wouldn’t hate in a month. Maybe something with a number 3 because I’m a triplet? No clue. I’m sure I’ll figure something out. I did want a lip piercing for a bit, and I sometimes get back into wanting one haha.

38:The reason I joined Tumblr.

Obscurus Lupa and other people on That Guy With The Glasses had Tumblrs. Being a fan of the site at the time, I would frequent their blogs to see what kinds of questions fans would ask. Eventually, I just made one and the rest is history.

39:Do I and my last ex hate each other?

Ex-girlfriend? No. We’re actually still friends.

Last girl I dated? Also no. We haven’t spoken since July though.

40:Do I ever get “good morning” or “good night” texts?

Nah. I only really like those from girls I date anyway.

41:Have I ever kissed the last person I texted?

I have not!

42:When did I last hold hands?

It already feels like way too long ago. Realistically, a year or two.

43:How long does it take me to get ready in the morning?

30 minutes to an hour depending if I need to shave my beard.

44:Have I shaved my legs in the past three days?

Nope. I don’t shave my legs.

45: Where am I right now?

My room.

46:If I were drunk & can’t stand, who’s taking care of me?

I guess either my friend Adam or my friend Derrick. I don’t think I’ve ever been drunk to the point of not being able to stand though lol.

47:Do I like my music loud or at a reasonable level?

Reasonable. Protect your ears, kids.

48:Do I live with my Mom and Dad?

Unfortunately.

49:Am I excited for anything?

Florida!

50:Do I have someone of the opposite sex I can tell everything to?

I think so!

51:How often do I wear a fake smile?

Mostly when I go to work lol.

52:When was the last time I hugged someone?

The other day, I believe.

53:What if the last person I kissed was kissing someone else right in front of me?

Well, that would be pretty messed up I guess since we haven’t talked in months. I would probably try to ignore them like the coward I am.

54:Is there anyone I trust even though I should not?

Probably.

55:What is something I disliked about today?

Some of my friends weren’t able to hang with me today, one of which is soon going on a cross-country road trip for who knows how long, and I would like to see him before he leaves.

56:If I could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be?

There’s so many, but meeting Zlatan Ibrahimovic would be pretty dope. Also Cindy Sherman.

57:What do I think about most?

Sexy ladies and general thirsty thoughts, Magic: The Gathering, professional wrestling, what I’m going to eat next. Totally normal things

58:What’s my strangest talent?

I can make this weird belching/farting noise by puffing out my cheeks.

59:Do I have any strange phobias?

No clue. None that I can think of.

60:Do I prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it?

Both! I’m very much a performer, and I also love taking photos.

61:What was the last lie I told?

I told my friend I don’t know what my plans are tomorrow when I have sort of an idea.

62:Do I prefer talking on the phone or video chatting online?

I guess video chatting because you can get visual cues to know when to speak.

63:Do I believe in ghosts? How about aliens?

Yes, and yes.

64:Do I believe in magic?

Yeah, to an extent.

65:Do I believe in luck?

Also yeah, to an extent.

66:What’s the weather like right now?

It was a little cool today, but it’s gonna be warmer tomorrow.

67:What was the last book I’ve read?

This really fucked up comic series called Crossed. I last read the first issue of Crossed: Badlands. Please do not look up Crossed. There is a lot of gore, rape, and other horribly unpleasant things. It’s very morbid.

68:Do I like the smell of gasoline?

I do!

69:Do I have any nicknames?

None that I’d like to admit online lol…

70:What was the worst injury I’ve ever had?

I almost broke a rib while wrestling my friend once

71:Do I spend money or save it?

I spend it. I’m definitely going to start saving soon.

72:Can I touch my nose with a tongue?

Nope.

73: Is there anything pink in 10 feet from me?

Yup. A couple of Mega64 posters, one of which is the new one they sent out for their Patreon.

74:Favorite animal?

I like snakes.

75:What was I doing last night at 12 AM?

Probably scrolling down this hellsite.

76:What do I think Satan’s last name is?

Christ ooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhh

77:What’s a song that always makes me happy when I hear it?

I can’t think of any specific ones at the moment. Probably older songs that trigger nostalgia for me.

78:How can you win my heart?

Gimme dat s u c c

In all seriousness, just be compatible with me and maintain interest in me.

Although given dat s u c c wouldn’t hurt.

79: What would I want to be written on my tombstone?

“He did a lot of what he wanted to do in life and was as happy as he could be.”

80:What is my favorite word?

aka (prounounced awka)

I can’t think of a more serious answer that isn’t that Donnie Darko scene where the girl says “cellar door” is the most beautiful phrase in the English language.

81:My top 5 blogs on tumblr?

My blog x5

82:If the whole world were listening to me right now, what would I say?

I have no idea what I’m doing. Please send help.

83:Do I have any relatives in jail?

Not that I know of, but who knows with how often my dad keeps secrets of his side of the family hidden.

84:I accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what’s even cooler is that they endow me with the super-power of my choice! What is that power?

Photosynthesis

85:What would be a question I’d be afraid to tell the truth on?

Probably a few things…

86:What is my current desktop picture?

D.C. United’s logo with their entire regular season schedule

87:Had sex?

Hahahahahahaha nope.

88:Bought condoms?

Hahahahahahaha yeah.

89:Gotten pregnant?

I would hope not. Ya know. Since I don’t have a uterus.

90:Failed a class?

Yeah

91:Kissed a boy?

92:Kissed a girl?

Absolutely

93:Have I ever kissed somebody in the rain?

Maybe?

94:Had job?

Yeah

95:Left the house without my wallet?

Probably

96:Bullied someone on the Internet?

Nope.

97:Had sex in public?

Please refer to question #87

98:Played on a sports team?

Not in any sort of program. I’ve only played on recreational soccer teams. Those aren’t anything serious though.

99:Smoked weed?

Yeah

100:Did drugs?

Weed is a drug, so technically yeah.

101:Smoked cigarettes?

Yeah. They’re disgusting

102:Drank alcohol?

Yup.

103:Am I a vegetarian/vegan?

104:Been overweight?

Yes indeedy

105:Been underweight?

Nope. I’ve only ever been a fatty.

106:Been to a wedding?

Yes

107:Been on the computer for 5 hours straight?

Of course

108:Watched TV for 5 hours straight?

Definitely

109:Been outside my home country?

Nope :(

110:Gotten my heart broken?

Hahahahahahahahahaha yes

111:Been to a professional sports game?

Absolutely

112:Broken a bone?

Thankfully, no.

113:Cut myself?

Not on purpose

114:Been to prom?

Twice.

115:Been in airplane?

116: Fly by helicopter?

117:What concerts have I been to?

Let’s see if I can remember them all! I’ve been to a bunch of local shows since I’ve been in a band!

DC101 Chili Cookoff 2009

Linkin Park/Mutemath

Tool

Fozzy

Alice in Chains/Jane’s Addiction/Coheed and Cambria/Circa Survive

The Protomen

Powerglove

Iron Maiden/Dream Theater

DJ Cutman

Probably a bunch of other things

118:Had a crush on someone of the same sex?

I mean, I guess so? Nothing I would have wanted to act on though.

119:Learned another language?

I can sort-of speak German!

120:Wore make up?

I put on eyeliner one time but my mom made me take it off before we went home so my dad wouldn’t see it and be pissed lol.

121:Lost my virginity before I was 18?

Please refer to question #87

122:Had oral sex?

Yep.

123:Dyed my hair?

Nothing more than my bangs. And even then, it was such a shitty dark blue, you could hardly tell it apart from my normal hair color. My parents weren’t very fun.

124:Voted in a presidential election?

Yeah

125:Rode in an ambulance?

126:Had a surgery?

Nothing besides getting my wisdom teeth removed

127:Met someone famous?

Only people that are famous on the internet

128:Stalked someone on a social network?

I mean, who hasn’t???

129:Peed outside?

Yeah

130:Been fishing?

Yeah

131:Helped with charity?

Yup

132:Been rejected by a crush?

Eventually

133:Broken a mirror?

Loooooooool yeah

134:What do I want for birthday?

To be able to go to Gamedays

135:How many kids do I want and what will be their names?

No more than two. I like the name Julia for a girl, and I have no idea what I would name a boy haha. I do like Max and Sebastian, but those are such stereotypical overly proper white parent names. Hopefully, I’ll have plenty of time to figure that out!

136:Was I named after anyone?

Nope.

137:Do I like my handwriting?

Eh. It’s unique, I guess?

138:What was my favorite toy as a child?

Video games

139:Favorite TV Show?

I don’t really keep up with TV all that much anymore, but It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia is one of the funniest god-damned shows on the planet. I love it so much.

140:Where do I want to live when older?

Somewhere in which I’m happy and financially secure.

141:Play any musical instrument?

I play the drums! I’ve been playing for about 11 years.

142:One of my scars, how did I get it?

My right ring finger is a little swollen and purple from what I believe was when I had a door get closed on it when I was a child.

143:Favorite pizza topping?

White sauce, chicken, and bacon. There’s also nothing wrong with a classic pepperoni.

144:Am I afraid of the dark?

Sometimes, the dark is very terrifying all alone

145:Am I afraid of heights?

Not really

146:Have I ever got caught sneaking out or doing anything bad?

Lol yep.

147:Have I ever tried my hardest and then gotten disappointed in the end?

That’s basically my life

148:What I’m really bad at.

Picking up signals from girls that might be interested in me. I’m always just assuming that people are just friendly, and I have low self-esteem when it comes to my date-ability

149:What my greatest achievements are.

Finishing college.

150:The meanest thing somebody has ever said to me.

Why you gotta make me think about that?

151:What I’d do if I won in a lottery.

Pay off my student loans

152:What do I like about myself?

The fact that I’m a triplet, my butt, my drumming ability, my art

153:My closest Tumblr friend.

@it-was-real-horrorshow

154:Something I fantasies about.

Mostly inappropriate things

Holy fuck, that was a lot to answer! Thank you for the interest, I guess!

0 notes

thecloudlight-blog · 7 years

Text

New Post has been published on Cloudlight

New Post has been published on https://cloudlight.biz/first-listen-the-heliocentrics-a-world-of-masks/

First Listen: The Heliocentrics, 'A World Of Masks

When a band is able to many musical styles, it could be thrilling to hear them all on a single album. But it can be just as fun when the institution dives deep into one mode, focusing their musical revel in and artistic imagination into a coherent vision. That’s how the Heliocentrics’ fourth album, A World of Masks, feels. The UK-based ensemble, which has blanketed as much as nine contributors, has in the past delved into hip-hop (first making their name on DJ Shadow’s 2006 album The Outsider), jazz, psych, funk, Afrobeat and greater.

A World of Masks suggestions at all those patterns, on the grounds that musical variety is baked into the Heliocentrics’ musical DNA.

But at some stage in eleven tracks totaling 45 minutes, the group concentrates on the whole on otherworldly psych-funk. Each piece looks like a part of an universal suite, a type of infinite cosmic jam the band should reputedly play for all time. Heliocentrics songs usually originate from improvisation, but this is clearer this time around. The unfastened nature in their unfettered trips evoke European collectives like Can and Träd, Gräs och Stenar as a whole lot as space tourists like Funkadelic and Sun Ra (who, not coincidentally, made two albums within the ’60s referred to as The Heliocentric Worlds of Sun Ra).

The cognizance on A World of Masks comes partly from a new improvement. Heliocentrics tunes are generally instrumental, but on more than half the album’s songs, Slovokian singer Barbora Patkova improvises lyrics, regularly in her native language. Her vocals are just as space-sure as the Heliocentrics’ track – at times she evokes the striking Sun Ra Arkestra singer June Tyson – however they also provide a framework for the band’s elastic jams. The album opens together with her maximum out-the front overall performance, as she sears across the slow construct of “Made of the Sun,” forging a vocal-instrumental symbiosis that persists during A World of Masks.

Listen to Your Inner Voice for Success in Life

How to concentrate for your internal voice is first understanding your real Teacher or Guide whilst in this international.

Our Creator gave us His Teacher, the Holy Spirit to replace the only we made that keeps us within the dream of separation. The Holy Spirit does now not want to raise conflict, however He does need to update what needs replacing.

His substitute efforts will handiest take an instantaneous in time, which is the identical quantity of time you have been dreaming of life faraway from your actual Home.

The Holy Spirit is invisible, but you could see the results of His Presence, and via them you will learn that He is there.

His efforts will no longer have an impact on eternity, because not anything can.

So really ask that He do the job. As you learn how to listen to your internal voice let Him take over as your Teacher, all time that has passed is now long past. Everything now’s precisely because it changed into before you made a decision on a course to nothingness.

Your route to nothingness has been an extended and weary journey, and for now you can’t even don’t forget what it changed into like before you started. In the dream, you do not know what it is want to be awake.

The dream of lifestyles in this international appears very actual.

However, you are still the equal and unchanged-simplest now you have got a brand new trainer Who is guiding you to awakening, as opposed to deeper into the dream. There was a tiny tick of time whilst each of us made the first error and slipped into the dream of separate environment.

Within that single blunders stemmed extra errors within the dream, and others branched.

While these errors were stemming and branching, additionally they held within them their Correction. In that tiny tick of time earlier than we drifted off to dreamland, which is now gone, God gave us a Protector.

This is our Answer, and how to pay attention for your internal voice.

Your adventure continues to answer, and now your new Teacher is showing you Its consequences. However, we cannot fully wake up until the arena as-one awakens. The ego, our former teacher, wishes us to shift from side to side between the beyond and the prevailing.

Much of our time is spent looking on the beyond as though it were real. But our actual, or complete-thoughts perspectives the past as a dream. How commonly have you idea, “It all looks as if it become a dream”?

Your abstract thoughts receive the Holy Spirit’s whispering into your dreaming mind. World Championship Rings

World Series earrings are awards given to every participant in Major League baseball who has received the World Series. Started inside the 1922 World Series when earrings have been given to the members of the triumphing team, the New York Giants, courtesy corporations like Tiffany& Co or Balfour, they have got grown in stature and length. They flaunt the team’s logo in precious stones like diamonds and rubies and are set in 14 carat white gold. Teams shopping for their very own contributors have a machine of classification with the grandest rings for their pinnacle players, and watered down variations for players lower down the rank and crew employees. While the primary jewelry had a couple of diamonds, the modern-day-day version has over 2 hundred diamonds!

Valuable Sports Memorabilia

It is likewise considered through lovers as treasured sports activities memorabilia that may be auctioned or offered at will. Sites like eBay host such objects, and lots of a player in need of cash has sold his ring and made thousands of bucks. Museums have replicas as reveals and there may be a reckoning of who has won the maximum variety of earrings. Yogi Berra has gained the maximum wide variety of jewelry at 15!

Like baseball, there are several professional, semiprofessional, novice, university and excessive school sports. Basketball, Super Bowl Football have all got their championship awards within the form of those rings which can be coveted by all of us, however unfortunately may be enjoyed handiest by means of those players and their groups who win the year’s championship.

Teams are also made from fanatics, who root for their cherished gamers, shouting themselves hoarse and cheering them to victory. So, when a person got here up with the concept that those fanatics too must be rewarded with their very own championship jewelry, it was applied through a few businesses who committed their time, attempt, know-how, and understanding in making precise replicas of the World series championship earrings, as showy, as exuberant, and as ‘obnoxiously over the top’ as the originals.

The Championship jewelry of some of the predominant tournaments and leagues those agencies study replicating are

MLB- World Series- (Baseball) NFL – Super Bowl (Football), NHL-Stanley Cup (Hockey), CFL – Grey Cup (Canadian Football) NCAA (Basketball) NASCAR (Auto racing) Since each yr there was a winner in those video games, the variety is mind boggling and you may order the 12 months and that team’s ring for oneself. It is a passion best fans can recognize and there are heaps out there! Great Gifting Idea

A first-class gifting concept, such rings are fantastic to gift in case you recognise what group the recipient is rooting for. Such loyalties are very sturdy and lifelong and a World Series Championship ring can be a whole lot liked. People who love their teams would love to buy and possess the earrings of their favourite group as a mark of souvenir. There are thousands and thousands of enthusiasts out there of all age companies and gender who would love to have jewelry of their favorite triumphing team. Here is an example while guys love earrings!

The History and Use of False Face Masks Among the Seneca

False Face Masks are considered to be living and breathing “faces” that convey a spirit’s presence with them. The mask are typically used in recuperation ceremonies to convey remedy from health afflictions. There is a False Face Society some of the Iroquois tribes and those who are cured with the assist of False Faces routinely grow to be members. Believers in traditional Iroquois thought do no longer trust or name these False Faces “mask” as they agree with the faces are inhabited via living representations of spirits. False faces are even “fed” with a cornmeal “mush” and they accept presents of tobacco for recovery ailments.

Iroquois legend has it that the beginning of the False Face Mask way of life

Took place due to the fact the “Creator,” “God,” “Divine Supreme Being,” whichever name you choose to use, encountered a stranger once, known in the Onondaga language as “Grandfather.” The Creator challenged Grandfather in his capability to transport a mountain. Grandfather made the mountain shake and rumble however turned into unable to transport it. The Creator stated Grandfather had a few energy however now not enough strength to move the mountain. The Creator then moved the mountain to demonstrate his potential to Grandfather. The Creator told Grandfather now not to appearance at the back of him while the mountain moved, however Grandfather changed into curious and while he became to look, the mountain struck Grandfather within the face and left his face damaged and smashed.

The Creator then hired Grandfather to guard his kids however he knew the sight of Grandfather’s broken face might scare the children, so Grandfather become exiled to the forests and underground caves. To these days, sightings are mentioned of a lone figure, clothed in regal Iroquois apparel, peering from at the back of the timber of the woodland. He is stated to have long hair and either a pink or black face. He most effective leaves the confines of the woods whilst known as upon to heal or interpret dreams. He is now referred to as “Old Broken Nose.”

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sugagimmesugar · 5 years

Text

Only Fools fall for You Chapter 2

The second chapter of my ReaderXNamjoon fic. First chapter is here. Hope you enjoy! Please give me some feedback if you can spare a minute! Thank you 💜🤟

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“Why are you laughing?”, she asks, confused by his reaction.

His face drops, unsure whether to tell the girl he just met about RapMonster. Why can’t he just be Namjoon for a day? A few seconds of silence as he struggles to decide who to be today…..

Both. Both Namjoon and RM.

With a sigh, Namjoon takes out his phone, opening Spotify and starting up a playlist. “only fools fall for you” he hadnt missed everything from her recommended album after all. While fixing a playlist he was lost in thought. He really liked this girl, hopefully he didnt scare her away. Suddenly he comes to a solution, how he can easily convince her that he isnt just some dickhead being cocky. He quickly checks with his manger, who reluctantly agrees.

A few minutes later, she returns, an annoyed expression on her face.

“Show me your music then, RM.”, she says, dragging out his name in a mocking manner and looking him straight in the eye.

“I am working on a proper playlist right now. But, I actually have a little, well, lets say a proposal for you.” He smirks, taking in her surprised and questioning expression. “How about, I repay you for this coffe tonight? As in, I buy you a drink. And we actually talk a bit. If you end up liking me and we enjoy each others company as much as I think we could… I fixed a backstage pass for the show tomorrow for you. It’s just an opportunity, I dont wanna push anything on you. I just think you could have a fun night out.” She is looking shocked… again… So after a few seconds of awkward silence he decides to get back to the most important thing: “...Please, show me some more of your music! I’m really liking it so far.”, he laughs. He can see her processing what he just said. He cant help but smile at her overwhelmed look.

She shakes her head, a cautious smile on her lips, and turns to help some customers who just entered the store.

As he picks up his phone again he sees it blowing up.

*BTS GroupChat*

Hobi: RM youre bringing a girl tomorrow?

Jin: When did you meet a girl?

Jin: You havent even been out that long? Why bring her to the concert already?

JK: oooh hyung met a girl!

JK: Is she cute?

JK: Is it a date?

JK: Send a pic!

Joon: I met her today, we are getting along great and she doesnt believe me that I am RM so I decided to prove it to her. Also maybe its a date? We will see! She hasnt even said yes yet…..

Hobi: She hasnt even said yes yet? Well done, bro.

RM: JK I cant just take a picture of her, thats creepy.

Suga: why are you guys blowing up my phone like this? let rm try to get some swedish ass and let me nap.

V: *pic of him and Jimin doing the finger heart* cheering for u hyung!

He laughs, everybody is reacting as expected.

Getting back to the playlist he finally decides to add some BTS songs. Why not brag and prepare her for tomorrow night? He keeps on adding to the list, waiting for her to return.

“Wow, how many “favourites” do you have?” he almost jumps at the voice suddenly right behind him.

“You didnt tell me there was a maximum number of songs allowed. I am making a playlist, putting in everything I like that you might like aswell.” he turns around, facing her with a smile.

He grabs her arm: “Wait, you believe me all of a sudden?”

“First of all, you can’t just grab me like that, I am still theoretically at work, even though there isnt much to do. Secondly, I googled you, dumbass. Can’t really deny that you have the same face as RM… So I believe you. Its fucking weird, yes, but I guess the dude who’s album I have been spamming for days somehow found his way to me.” Another wink and she leaves him to sit alone… again.

A top ten list, with songs to convince her to come to the concert tomorrow? That’s surprisingly much pressure.

1. Eternal Sunshine by Epik High

2. Midsummer Madness by 88rising

3. So Far Away by Agust D

4. I can give you heaven by HONNE

5. U by HER

6. Personal by Kehlani

7. Make it Right by BTS

8. Spring Day by BTS

9. Baepsae by BTS

10. Mikrokosmos by BTS

It takes him a while but eventually he finds a way to narrow it down to 10 songs. Some of his general favourites but through the view of what y/n could like.

With a broad, dimpled grin, he waves her over. She just throws up a peace sign and nods, acknowledging his wave. A few minutes later she saunters over, two coffees in her hands.

The two sit and drink coffee while the music plays, only occasionally interrupting the listening silence for some lyric explanations.

** Oh, oh, I can make it Right**

“Lead the way, you’re the local. I’ll eat anything and to be honest I am not picky with pubs, I would just prefer not to cause a scandal tonight by getting photographed at a pub with a girl.”

She laughs, “Oh god yea that would be bad. It’s just this way. Let’s go!”

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