Ties That Bind – SGA AU
Cover Art by Fanarts Series
Ties That Bind
Keira Marcos
Pairing: McShep (many other secondary pairings)
Genre: Romance, BDSM
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Graphic male/male sex, anal play, BDSM, violence, and exhibitionism (does any of that really make you not want to read it?). If you don’t like this kind of thing—just don’t read it. Seriously. Evil!Carter. Marine!John. PLEASE READ THE AUTHOR NOTES AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE.
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1. Intimately Bound (22,600 words)
Colonel John Sheppard returns to Earth to debrief and to meet Dr. Rodney McKay.
2. Learning to Belong (33,200 words)
John starts his debrief and Rodney settles into his new role as the collared submissive of a Marine.
3. You Belong To Me (22,500 words)
John and Rodney make time to see both of their families before they leave for Atlantis.
4. Harder to Breathe (44,500 words)
John and Rodney return to the SGC and make ready to go to Atlantis with a few problems along the way.
5. Always For You (16,200 words)
John and Rodney learn more about each other as they travel to Atlantis on the Daedalus. While everyone else adjusts to the new relationships that have formed around the pair.
6. What You Give (35,700 words)
Rodney falls in love with Atlantis while John gets used to having a family on Atlantis.
7. Under Pressure (30,900 words)
General Jordan comes to Atlantis and the pressure breaks the one person John couldn’t have predicted and someone has to pay the price.
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Series Summary: After the death of his submissive, Colonel John Sheppard spent four years alone. Grief and anger pushed him and made him even more ambitious in his career. Taking Dr. Rodney McKay into his life and his bed was supposed to be a political maneuver– but then he met the man and everything he thought he wanted changed in an instant.
Dr. Rodney McKay has spent a year alone after divorcing his Domme and cutting her collar off in public. He doesn’t know if he’s ready for a new Dom but he does know he wants Atlantis and Colonel John Sheppard’s collar is his path to the city of the Ancients. Then the Marine put his hands on him and Rodney realizes that he’s already half way to risking his heart again.
Neither man was prepared for the explosive combination of their sexual dynamic and the intense emotional connection that would burn between them like an inferno.
Characters
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 Master Chief Declan Frost (Dom) (actor: Michael Weatherly) |
 Dr. Sean Taylor (sub) (actor: Orlando Bloom) |
 Dr. Elizabeth Weir (Domme) (actress: Jessica Steen) |
 Dr. Radek Zelenka (sub) (actor: David Nykl) |
 Dr. Carson Beckett (Dom) (actor: Paul McGillion ) |
 Dr. Miko Kusangi (sub) (actress: Nanako Matsushima) |
 Captain Anne Teldy (Domme) (actress: Christina Cox) |
 Dr. Allison Porter (sub) (actress: Nicole de Boer) |
 General Jack O’Neill (Dom) (actor: Richard Dean Anderson) |
 Dr. Daniel Jackson (sub) (actor: Michael Shanks) |
 Patrick Sheppard (Dom) (actor: Viggo Mortensen) |
 Jonah Dean (sub) (actor: Takeshi Kaneshiro) |
 David Sheppard (Dom) (actor: Dylan Neal) |
 Claire Sheppard (sub) (actress: Charlize Theron) |
 General Randolph Rampart (Dom) (actor: Tom Selleck) |
 Angela Rampart (sub) (actress: Nicole Kidman) |
 Gerard de Sade (Dom) (actor: Gerard Butler) |
 Andre Morgan (sub) (actor: Jonathan Rhys Meyers) |
 Dr. Sydney Jamison (Dom) (actor: Avery Brooks) |
 General Mason Blake (Dom) (actor: Jeffrey Dean Morgan) |
 General Kevin Jordan (Dom) (actor: James Woods) |
 Lt. Colonel Sam Carter (Domme)(actress: Amanda Tapping) |
 Dato’ Seri Syed Raja (Dom) (actor: Chow Yun Fat) |
 Lianne Raja (sub) (actress: Kelly Hu) |
Author’s Notes
This story was inspired by the works Coming Home and General & Dr. Sheppard by Xanthe.
While this is not a story in the world she created, I did use her BDSM/Dynamic theme with her permission. I want to thank her sincerely for her generosity and her contributions to this fandom and several others that I read. I highly recommend that you read EVERYTHING she’s ever written.
Like the world that Xanthe created– this series takes place in a world where BDSM relationships are the ‘norm’ and everyone is pretty much bisexual. There are a LOT of homosexual pairings in this series because it amuses me.
To my readers, I would caution you that this story is VERY different from the work I normally write. I do consider it a romance but it’s pretty hardcore. John is a sadist and he makes no bones about it. This may make some of you very uncomfortable. That being said I did recycle two of my OCs from my WMHB series (Declan Frost and Sean Taylor).
This is a FANTASY and should not be taken as a guide to use for a BDSM lifestyle. It’s also not at all realistic—it’s a fanfic set in the Stargate:Atlantis Fandom. Graphic descriptions of S/M appear in this work and it may squick. I would caution anyone who is interested in masochism or pain play that they educate themselves thoroughly about their body and their individual needs before considering any “play time”. In other words, don’t be stupid.
Additionally, I needed a ‘bad guy’ and I used Sam Carter. Since I normally write her as all sunshine and snark—it was interesting to write her as a real bitch. I’m not a Sam basher by nature—she was just convenient and I didn’t want to invent a new character for the part. Also, I never in my wildest dreams could have considered Jennifer Keller for the part Sam played in this story.
RE: Elizabeth Weir– yes I cast the original actress to play Elizabeth. I liked her better. Don’t fuss at me!
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chrisking2005 said
Squee!
iadorespike said
OMG! I’m not sure, but have I died and gone to heaven? Thank-you so much!!
*runs to read*
marli said
it’s already Christmas ?
I go to take my times to read this.
Deliciously Weird said
This is wonderful! I was so looking forward to you posting this. Evil!Carter is just fantastic. I always thought her Canon character was just a bit too perfect. I love to see her rolled out with warts and all like the rest of us. *grins*
The developing relationship between John and Rodney is just lovely. You have a light and loving touch with BDSM that both people in and out of the lifestyle will enjoy. I adore all of Xanthe’s work and have read them several times over, and your story is certainly developing in a way that makes me believe it will ‘rest on the same shelf’ with her stories.
I know it must be very difficult to write Rodney as a sub and still keep him true to character. I admire anyone who succeeds at this task.
I look forward eagerly to your continued story.
-> Side note – How do you feel about people writing fic based on your fic? I am not nearly the writer you are, and even if I start it I may never complete it. However, I have a plot bunny that is chewing viciously on my ear based off your “Sentinels of Atlantis” that I would like to attempt to set to paper ‘and my LJ’.
Keira Marcos said
I would be thrilled to see an AU of my Sentinels of Atlantis series— but it would be distracting for anyone to write a story IN the world I created. As a writer– I’ve never had a writing partner and I pretty much think I’m too stingy to have one.
cookiemom6067 said
WOW – I haven’t started reading yet (at work – )but can’t wait!!! I love Xanthe’s work and yours – looking forward to reading your take on this interesting dynamic. Sounds VERY interesting. And welcome back, Sean and Declan.
K-lee said
Um, yeah. So after I wrote that long feedback, I went back and reread the story. I really liked it. This is the first time I have done this (offered my image manips to someone else) so I hope you like it. I have no idea how to email you so I set the image up on it’s own web page.
Keira Marcos said
Very cool! Thanks. I’m actually creating a page on my website for the art my readers send me. I’d like to add this to it if you don’t mind?
K-lee said
Tou are welcome to add it to your website.
Kerry said
Huh, I just realised – the photos are posted in a certain order, right? Doms on the left and subs on the right, in accordance to their pairings?
Keira Marcos said
Yes– they were posted in order of how they will eventually pair in some cases. Obviously if I’m put 2 Doms side by side on the page it just means that I didn’t pair them with anyone in the fic or their submissive doesn’t appear.. I considered not posting some of the pics but just decided to throw them all up there.
iadorespike said
Ooohhh! Very nice.
And the questions that come to mind based on just these pics are overwhelming me. LOL
For instance, is it a problem for the Sub to outrank the Dom? (Although, maybe Major in the Airforce and Lt. Commander in the Navy are comparable ranks, though it’s still a valid question.) Do the (other) Sheppard men have any problem with the fact that Matthew is a Sub, since they are all Doms? And, ooohhh! Daddy’s Sub is very pretty. Hee! And with that picture of Claire, I can more easily understand her having gorgeous and EXPENSIVE collars for each day of the week. She looks the type.
I really like this Elizabeth, myself.
Aaaaaaaand…this just makes it harder to wait! *wails* I need to read. Now. Eeeeee!!!
Ahem.
Thank-you very much.
Diva0789 (Michelle) said
i freaking love all of your work…..the new series is cool…not really my thing, though i have read a lot of bdsm fic…its cool to read and you write it smartly, if you know what i mean…i havent actually read xanthe’s stuff…but i sure will after hearing it inspired this beauty ( i have acutally read another fic set in her world…it was a NCIS crossover and it was very cool)…you and puddle_of_goo are my go to gals for bdsm fic….YAY YOU and give the muse a kiss from me, yeah?
p.s. thanks for giving us pics…i love that you give us faces for the characters…it helps me visualize your ‘verse.
Rosie said
I’ve just finished reading ‘Coming Home’, then I come here to check for updates, and what do I see?!?!?!?!
Awesome!
Irina said
I’m happy you casted the original actress to play Elizabeth. I liked her better too. Does the pictures mean that we’ll see a Evan Lorne/Matthew Sheppard pairing?
Diva0789 (Michelle) said
oh..yes lorne matt pairing! cant wait for that!!!
(lorne is a fav character of mine…he was a very strong and level presence on the show and im kinda bummed that there isn’t more fic with him in it as more than a background character…..so kudos to you)
magicalpirate said
YAY!!!! Your stories are always amazing and I’m so excited to read this series. I really like the dynamic so far and I can’t wait to read more!!
I really am glad you kept some of the characters from your “What might have been” series. They are awesome!
Cleresta said
You ROCK!
Peasha said
I love this!!! Please do not let anyone tell you what or how to write. I have read all that you have here and I love it all. I was very glad to read your comments on what must have been some stupid responses by small minded ding dongs. Keep up the wonderful work! I look forward to more great stories.
Keira Marcos said
Oh– if I let twits get to me I would just delete my site and go away like others author have. People are just wrapped up in their own arrogance that they don’t appreciate what they get for free and would rather bitch about a typo OR whatever.
Maxine said
OMG I just love the coming home verse and i just love this new fic. Read them last night and OMG love that carter is evil and that john/rodney click so well with there mutual kinks cant wait to read what happens nex
purrfus said
Adore the pictures. Its so nice to see some favorites returning. Can’t wait to see how they’re different.
Syrenslure said
I haven’t started reading yet (though I definitely will as soon as I have a moment), but I came and I thought — ooh, look at all of the very pretty people
So, you know, preemptive feedback… lol
and oooh, shiny.
foxy said
Soooo good have just found your web site and seeing as I am on bed rest am busily reading all you fics. I cannot find one I have not loved so far. So just wanted to say thank you and please more.
Kaz said
I love the people you have cast for the new roles but seeing Jensen Ackles as Matthew Sheppard – perfect! Just perfect. (happy sigh)
Soshoni said
I am in love with this series.
I am also quite pleased with the pairings implied by the pictures, yes. (Well, the two that haven’t been explicitly laid out.)
I’d be more distressed by bitch!Sam if I didn’t have your other series available to go cuddle with. I can totally see how she’s the only person already around you could cast in that role. His puppy dog infatuation from the series makes it believable that he could let himself be in a situation like that. Even if I could somehow make the obscenely long stretch of imagination to see someone else as twisted as this Sam is, I couldn’t have made the stretch to believe it of Rodney for anyone else.
John’s family is as adorably awesome here as they are in the What Might Have Been, and I am so looking forward to seeing Sean and Declan here.
Thanks for sharing this and the rest of your stories with us!
I’m normally one of the nitpickers, though I always try to bring up things I loved as well. (If I didn’t enjoy something, I wouldn’t waste my time giving concrit.) However, I just want to say that even *if* I actually notice any typos while I’m reading something you’ve written, I’m too full of glee at what’s happening to make much note of them. I’m sorry the naysayers got you done at one point – you have every right to make the request for only positive feedback. I’m not saying you need my validation, just offering it anyways because I’m (sadly) sure you hear people bitching about it.
Thanks again for another great read!!
Dare Darcy said
Wow. I loved Xanthe’s stuff, and when I read that yours was sort of an AU spinoff, I was instantly curious. I was hooked right away. They’re amazingly well written; I’m really enjoying myself. Now I have to go read some OTHER of your fic (since I read all 70,000+ words of THIS fic in 24 hours…)
Lulu said
Hi, I don’t expect you’ll publish this because I’m one of those people who will admit that typos do drive me batty. My daughter accuses me of being rather militant about it all. However, if your fic wasn’t engaging, I wouldn’t read it. Most times, I backspace after a certain amount of them. With yours, I haven’t. Your fic is engaging and I do enjoy reading it. The reason I’m commenting is because if you want, I’d love to be your SPAG beta, if you’d like.
SPAG (spelling, punctuation , and grammar)
I wouldn’t comment on content or characterization. It’s not my intent to offer as a means to change your style/intent/story.
Regardless, I wish you the best.
Keira Marcos said
Oh– you know I don’t mind if it drives you batty and you say so. What I mind is the abuse I get from other commenters who find it “batty”. Here is the thing– I’ve had betas in the past. One fic on my website had THREE betas and I still had complaints about typos and grammar. NOTHING is ever perfect and betas take time. This is a hobby and any time I devote to a beta takes away time from what I can devote to this hobby. Since it isn’t my career– I simply can’t give it the time using a beta would require. If I did– half the fic on my site wouldn’t even be posted.
iadorespike said
*grabs fic and runs*
Dema said
* most humbly begs and pleads for more*
I Love the pictuers! I have to tell you when I started reading part two and three I hadn’t seen the pics. So I was thinking of Jonah as ither Takeshi (Yah!!) or Jerry Yan and Miko!! Have you been raiding my live action manga adaption collection! Now I have to go watch Boys over flowers and Meteor Garden 1 and 2 again this weekend!
But please feel free to update at any time, how about now?
Giggles149 said
can’t wait to see how Matthew and Lorne’s relationship starts, especially since Matthew claims to be less of a force of nature then Rodney or Claire. I really like Jonah as well. I am a bit sad that we won’t really get to see much of the family when they go to Atlantis, but the show is called Stargate Atlantis, so it is kinda expected. Thank you for all the effort you put in to make the series so realistic (with the pictures) and beautiful (the wonderful writing)
iadorespike said
Ooohhh, new character pictures?
*is intrigued*
yinka wills said
Tottering to the computer having been felled by a gum infection…
This story has been an oasis of brilliance in a miserable, pain wracked week.
You’re spoiling your readers for other writers’ fiction. Seriously.
Excellent world-building.
And the new Dom on your list, General Rampart. Hmm. A particularly hunky looking picture of Tom Selleck makes me wonder: Is he going to chase Rodney? Or try to get in John’s way?
I’m hoping we see Gerard de Sade intervene on Rodney’s behalf during one of the crises I sense brewing on the horizon. Thomas Gibson- Hotch in ‘Crimial Minds’ gives off quiet, ultra Dom vibes. Speaking of ultra Doms- are we going to see Teal’c in this story? Please? The way he’s been referred to, I can just imagine him, being all Zen Domish, and all the subs at SGC going weak at the knees…
Yinka
shimmoril said
ungh, gerard butler, so. damn. hawt. Now I just need some flashbacks of Rodney’s 3rd training session, nrrrrrrgggggghhhhh
gilesbabe said
Love the new series. Just flat out love anything you do. I also agree with the Elizabeth choice. Torrie was nice, but I think Jessica would have played the role better.
Personal note—-
I really wish you could work a character into the story that you use the actor Misha Collins as the templet for. Especially if you have him as the Dom that Matthew hooks up with. (If you haven’t already planned his match, of course). Supernatural has become my new passion and tension between Dean and Castiel is unreal
Jessica said
Omg I think I might of fallen in love with you a little.
Buttler as de Sade is amazing he is so hot I might combust if he makes an apperance.
Just wondering any chance you could give estimates of updates like you do with sentinals of Atlantis. Then I won’t be checking my computer 3 times a day
Dema said
Oh dose this mean the de Sade is going tobe having a little one on one ‘talk’ with Sam?
Since Matt and Miko are from the same house they can do buddy bonding while they wrap all the free doms in the city around their little pinky fingers.
Okay going to reread all the stories while I wait for an update please! ( would a nice hot pan of home made pasta bake help ?)
Love the new pics!
Hay have you though of having your stories podficed? I would get all of them if you did.
K-lee said
You have me hooked. I am checking a couple times a day for my next fix.
It is like an endorphin high, knowing it will be good and desperatly wanting the next one.
Please post another chapter.
I really wanna know how Miko ends up going to Atlantis. And how Carson and Miko develop their relationship. And if Miko and Matthew have a bond cause they are both Geisha.
It would be nice to know how Matthew does getting Lornes attention. Cause, really, I think that relationship could be really entertaining with what you have already inferred.
I would like to know how Declan and Sean get involved with the SGC. Please tell me that Sean is just as snarky here as he is in your other fiction.
It would be great to find out what happens to Sam. Cause, really? She has some serious karma that should be slapping her down. It would be downright sweet if either O’Neill or de Sade found out about the almost castration.
So, yeah…. post soon?
zombie_oak said
Gerard Butler actually popped into my head when you wrote about Gerard de Sade. Not just because of the name, but he seems like he could inhabit that character.
Wonderful, wonderful stories. Thank you for sharing!
iadorespike said
I’d just like to say that I think that James Woods is and awesome choice to play General Jordan (even thought I love James Woods bunches and Jordan is an ass…). I re-read the salon scene at the Sheppard’s with him in my mind, and he’s perfect. Still, I’m sure that John is up to handling him. I love all of the actors you’ve added as characters, and I can’t wait to see where you go with them.
Thanks!
Kerry said
Love the new pics added. I can definitely see Gerard Butler in the role of Gerard de Sade. *gets all distracted…* Anyway, Jonathan Rhys Meyers! Whee! He is so gorgeous, and to imagine that you’ve got something undoubtedly naughty planned for him – you do have his pic up next to de Sade.
Patiently (kind of) waiting for an update!
PS: The storyline is fantastic but the character pictures just add to the allure. I love that you go the extra mile.
purrfus said
Love the new pictures. Having seen a few episodes of Shark, I can really see Woods as Jordan.
You have a wonderful site, and your generosity in sharing your stories is appreciated. I know you can’t make any money from this, but other sites accept donations to help defray costs. Would you be willing and or able to allow some of us to help?
Keira Marcos said
Thank you for thinking to donate but actually I do okay.
. I’d much rather see money go to good causes that prevent animal abuse and discrimination. Also the Breast Cancer Research would be great too.
purrfus said
Done. Breast Cancer Research Foundation $25 for KeiraMarcos transaction 2664684466.
Keira Marcos said
Dude! I’m totally charmed by you. That’s awesome!
Kendal said
Even though you have only posted 3 chapters, I am hooked. I love the pictures of cast members. You are teasing me with things to com.
marmalade said
wow I love this series! Could you do me a favor and post the dates you upload them, I just found them and of course I want an update right away, and I will be frantically checking for new chapters unless I get a relative time line. I know life happens but I go crazy without some sort of guideline with series I love.
Keira Marcos said
All of my posts are dated. If you look at the bottom (before the comments) you’ll see a light blue bar that will you tell the date and time of the posting.
AJ said
Just wanted to let you know that I am loving this series. I wasn’t sure aboutit with the warnings but as usual your characters and the way they interact with each totally got me hooked! I love all the snark especially Rodney and Claire and am looking forward to meeting Gerard de Sade. I’ll be honest I actually pictured Timothy Dalton (from when he did Scarlett) but Gerard Butler? WOW! *fans*
Justine said
When I first saw Ties that Bind’s summary I said no, in fact I was completely firm with my refusal. But since it was you who wrote it, and I enjoyed your stories, I decided to take glance, already hating it…the next thing I knew I was hooked and drooling. I loved the dynamics. You didn’t degrade the characters and kept them in character. And didn’t make subs something to be hated or despised. Just…wow
Keira Marcos said
I feel like I won a great battle with this feedback!
. I’m glad you gave it a chance. I really don’t think I have it in me to write submissives as a degraded/despised/hated people because I think the real strength in the D/s dynamic is in the person doing the submitting. I’ve always believed it takes a lot more strength to submit than it does to dominate.
iadorespike said
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Goddess47 said
Such pretty people….. and some *very* inspired choices…..
Yummmmm…..
Thank you so much for doing this!!!!
EM said
I don’t think my body has ever before been so keyed up with sexual tension from reading fiction. This was heart-pounding, blood-pooling, searing-hot writing.
Being a RL lover of rattan canes and single-tail whips, I know what a true joy it is when you can implicitly trust your top, not just to wield the instrument skillfully but to keep you emotionally safe as well. Your John is exactly that type of Dom. Fantastic.
Also, it is rare indeed to read fiction where male characters interact freely and without shame, secure in their sexualities. If I may ask, how did you come to a place where you can write so freely about this type of interaction, especially considering it is almost *never* modeled by the people in today’s societies.
Keira Marcos said
I’d love to be able to answer this question but I don’t know how. I’m an intensely honest person and I don’t tolerate deception and bullshit well at all. I think that tends to come out in the characters I create. I think honest and pure responses are SEXY.
Additionally– straight or gay– a man who isn’t secure in his sexualty is a HUGE turn off for me. When I put this story together I went with the idea that sexualty was a non-issue. That everyone was basically bisexual and there were a few exceptions– people who were monosexual OR asexual. Those people were not discriminated against because sexual attraction is biology. It’s accepted– as accepted as the dynamic system itself. My main focus of “angst” as it were had to be the standing of submissives in a world where their essential make-up created a situation where abuse could and had happened in the past.
I wanted these people to struggle with things like social AND legal ownership of subs. I wanted to demonstrate that no society is perfect and that of course there would be tops (like Jordan) who would corrupt the system to serve himself and his own needs in the most selfish way possible. He’s even mostly transparent on this point– he’s playing games of course but he isn’t pretending he isn’t. He’s smug, selfish, and destructive but it’s all out there for everyone to see.
Cynthia Sieler said
Hi Keira,
Don’t know if you got my last comment but once again you have created a wonderful series that I will continue to follow. Everytime I see that you have posted a new story I cheer and do the happy dance of joy. I love the Sentinels of Atlantis and What Might Have Been series. I was so sorry to read you were having computer issues because I loved getting new chapters so quickly.
I have read the General and Dr. Sheppard series and loved them. When I saw that you were writing in the same verse I could not wait to read what you had. I have to say, I LOVE IT!!! Please please continue with this.
Thank you for sharing your incredible imagination with the rest of us. As always I look forward to new stories with baited breath.
Cynthia
entish-fan said
Just WOW! I finished reading the 4th chapter last night and I’m on my way to start over on chapter 1 again, but I thought I’d better take the time to “feed the author” as it were.
I LOVE the worlds you create with your writing and this one is no exception! I’m in awe of your imagination and your take on Xanthe’s world. I love the whole teaching houses for Doms and Subs, and the rankings that they can achieve. I always like to see Rodney in distress, but trying to be all stoic about it, then having someone strong come to his rescue! The whole Sheppard family ROCKS, especially Matthew being all coitish!
Evil!Sam is brilliant and I can total buy into Rodney letting her treat him like crap until she steal his work. 
I could go on and on….
Most of all I LOVE the fact that you are willing to share with the rest of us. It always brings a smile to my face whenever I see you’ve posted something new, no matter how crappy my day’s been. And I always come back to re-read your stories when I want a little boost. Thank You for making my day!
marmalade said
I have a question, where was Sam’s father Jacob or her brother (even if he was absent in the show) when she was trained? – how much training did she get, I know you mentioned it was not much but was it informal or one session at a pleasure house?
I like Jacob,he always seemed honorable and personally I can’t see him condoning all the things she inflicted on Rodney, so is he dead or evil or absent and what will happen if he comes back and finds out what she did?! I like that idea!
Keira Marcos said
You know I almost forgot that her brother even existed– we saw him once right? I mean we didn’t even see him when Jacob died in canon.
In my head– Jacob is dead. I never mentioned it in the narrative but I did think about him in this world– he had advanced cancer but he was a Dom and a man used to controlling his life at that level– would he really agree to share his body with a parasite? Even if it let him live longer? I decided that he wouldn’t have. Others might think differently
Hiruma Musouka said
Out of curiosity, how do you pick the actors/actresses you use for your original characters? Did you know immediately who you wanted for which role, or did you skim through images somewhere looking for someone who fit what you already had in mind?
I’m just curious because sometimes I have trouble forming mental pictures for my original characters, and I wondered if you had any suggestions?
Keira Marcos said
I’m about to reveal my level of OCD. I’m a plotter and a planner. I plan out a story in-depth and sometimes my notes on a story are as long the story itself. LOL. As I plot– I create characters and I normally do a character profile at that time and that includes a general physical description and I got in a habit long time ago of picking out actors and actresses to help my visualize in my mind as I write. Sometimes I gather pictures and sometimes I don’t. It just depends. Sometimes I have to chose between one actor or another when I’m building but I make that decision in the plotting stage.
Hiruma Musouka said
I haven’t actually written a long story yet, but my best friend abandoned a novel-length story that I was absolutely in love with and so one day I want to write it myself. I guess I’m somewhat like you though in the regard that the sparse notes I’ve already jotted down are probably going to be more in depth than the story itself by the time I’m done. Heck, half those notes won’t even be mentioned in the story! … I really like world-building. (^_^)
marmalade said
I have a couple of more questions:
Can men and women only marry or can same sex pairings as well? And is it a one on one or is bigamy aloud? What is the legal and proprietary differences between marriage, collard, and pet, as well when one fills out a contract – before collaring or before marriage or both?
pleasure houses: could we get an outline of what each specialize in, or are they all mostly generic? Are there different marks for domme’s and subs – you mentioned that General Rampart was at lotus – but not that he had a mark – and that subs from lotus are geisha but not what the domme’s are called.
Thanks for listening
Marmalade
(I’m getting a little obsessed with you universe – you’ve done such a good job with it! It’s so different than others that it’s obvious that you’ve ran with it and made it your own)
Keira Marcos said
I have a feeling I’m going to have to write a series of articles about this universe. LOL.
Same sex couples can marry– but a Dom can have more than one legal spouse. They can collar as many submissives as they would like. Most who marry commit themselves to the sub they marry and have an exclusive relationship. When a Dom is exclusive he wears a committment ring– Jack O’Neill wears one and continued to wear his even while Jackson was Ascended.
A sub contract is a legal agreement that is one step behind a collar. A collar is social ownership. The contract is a way for sub to give themselves over to a Dom for a certain time frame with stipulations and rules. It’s a legal safety net which allows a Dom to see to the sub’s welfare in medical situations as if they were collared but doesn’t come with the committment of a collar.
de Sade and La Petite Mort (which both get the origin in France, btw) mark their Doms with tattooed arm bands. Red for de Sade and black for La Petite Mort. Lotus (like many houses in Singapore, China, etc) mark their Doms across the their shoulders. John has the mark of his Singapore house on his shoulders– and it goes up his neck into his hair.
EmruasCat said
I’d like to know what the full Singapore mark looks like – but I don’t think John would be amused if his hair got shaved off because of it *giggles*.
Rosie said
Oh My GOD!!!!!!!!!!!
This is Fu*king AWESOME!!!!
…
…
…
…
Just so you know.
Kenise said
Ok. fallin in love here. This fic is amazin and your characters are so fleshed out and in depth. The work of a true writter. That being said I hate that John can’t have any kids to pass on his genes not his fathers or brothers but his. Sad. Also when i was reading this particular fic i almost got the idea was sort of sentient. I mean the Ancients were highly evolved right? And very open minded. It seems that those with the ATA gene were as well and those that were successful in the gene therapy were either a step away from the evolutionary change that was required to use the technology and the therapy sped up that process.
I mean wouldn’t it be great if the gene was sentient and that explained why some could get it successfully and others can’t. But you could make it a twist that while some may have successfuly tranplanted the ATA gene due to their physical evolution after some time they lost that ability if they lack the moral evolution/tolerance needed not just with Earth but other races as well? Just a thought.
By the way I normally don’t like Weir but I can almost live with the Weir you have portrayed here. Its just that in cannon Weir was not prepared at all to handle what was needed to not only research the ancient tech but survive in pegasas at all. i mean her educational background is in politc and negotiations, soldiers like John with backgrounds in sciences such and theoretical math would have a better graps on things of that nature. I also had a problem with the first cannon expedition not taking food and supplies they could grow and live off of. I mean they were going to another galaxy for cripes sake and they knew they may not have the power to come back to their own galaxy so they would need a way to survive and I just don’t see the soldiers if no one else counting on the goodness of others, not after what they encountered off world close to earth.
Characters like the John in your fic would want to become self suffient, I mean come on what US soldier would rely on someone not their own for basic food essentiel just to survive when the whole point it to help make their way of life better. which would eliminate quite a few opsticals like trading for food or relying on the Athosians and they could concentrate on the wraith. And i just don’t think this is something Dr. Weir would think about she is too much of a polictical creature. But it is some your John would be concerned with so i hope you have him address this issue.
Hey know that i think about it this would be a perfect what for them to start a colony. I’m sure there are places on Atlantis for them to begin production of things like clothes and whatever is needed to maintain their high quality of life. This is the Ancients here. Just a few thoughts. I love your universe. Can’t wait for the next installment
DiverSam said
While I originally stated I would sit this one out, I reconsidered and as usual you outdid your self. I’m glad I read it.
Keira Marcos said
Glad you gave it a chance.
Rane said
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this series! I’m a little spoiled for other McShep now, though, because I want them ALL to be in this verse!
Avidly awaiting further installments!
EmruasCat said
I’ll be frank: while I like mild dom/sub stories, more hardcore S&M scares me. I have read the first of Xanthe’s stories, and while she is a gifted writer, her content was a bit too extreme for me. Meaning absolutely no offense to her (I WISH I had an ounce of her writing talent and nerve). When I read that this series was based off of Xanthe’s work, I went “Well, crap,” because I am absolutely addicted to everything else you have written. I took a deep breath, and clicked on the first story in this series, fully expecting to be squicked.
I can’t stop re-reading everything you have in this series. And I am not squicked.
I don’t know WHY I’m not squicked – after all, the subject matter is much the same as Xanthe’s – but I’m operating under the assumption that you are just that good. Thank you for helping overcome my fear of reading S&M.
Keira Marcos said
I’m really glad you gave it a chance.
puddleofgoo said
I’ve been reading your stuff for months now and I’ve finally gotten around to actually leaving feedback. In short: write more now!
I love this series and adore the “What Might Have Been” series. I can’t wait until you post more in both universes!
Keira Marcos said
Lydia Lovestruck said
Hi! I’ve read (and re-read) Xanthe’s stories & enjoy them. They’re literary crack. So I definitely had to read your take on the whole thing. Love it! More crack! I second the request for a description of the different houses and their specialties, why a person picks one house over the other, that sort of thing.
I don’t know if you answered this somewhere else, but why does John have to be a Marine? I don’t mind it, and it works in context of your story, but I just wonder why you moved him out of the Air Force in the first place.
Third, are we ever going to get anything more on Jack’s relationship with Daniel? I get that Daniel never stayed on Abydos, that Jack collared him immediately, but did Daniel or Jack ever study at a pleasure house? If so, which? I only ask because I’m enthralled with the world-building and I’m addicted to crack. Thank you for being such a good dealer. *g*
Keira Marcos said
You know — I really like Marines and I think John as a Marine would be sexy. So, I made him a Marine. I didn’t have any big ulterior motive.
marmalade said
love the art!
I hope you’ll have an update soon.
p.s. happy birth day
rellan said
I have questions. I think it’s in xanthe’s fics that Radek is monosexual. Will you have anyone like that in this series? Or someone who is neither dom or sub? Maybe someone who’s non-sexual or asexual, celibate by choice, low sex drive or no sex drive? I don’t know how that would work with everybody else and there probably wouldn’t be a lot of people like that. But I was rereading and these thoughts occured to me. Odd that my brain would go in the opposite direction of sex. LOL
Keira Marcos said
I mentioned that there were people who were “certified asexual” in one of the earlier parts referring to hotel staff that could give massages and stuff like that. In Xanthe’s world being monosexual was something of a big deal– in my world sexuality isn’t a big deal at all on any level as long as it’s legal and consensual. Some would say that John is practically monosexual in my series– he’ll admit later on to having only topped female submissives in training and never once after he was marked as a Dom.
Levi said
I just now got around to looking at the pictures of the actors. I should have looked at them before because once I saw Gerald Butler as Gerard de Sade, I got aroused. He just looks like a Dom. I’m going to reread the series just so I can picture him in my mind doing filthy things to McKay. Thank you so much.=)
marmalade said
I have now gone beyond obsessive, I checked for an update literally 18 times today.
Your fic is taking over my life….and now I’m just going to re-read it, I think you broke my brain.
Keira Marcos said
I take this as a complete compliment. Though I don’t set out to break people’s brains. Really, I just like to think I encourage people all over the world to masturbate. Repeatedly.
chrisking2005 said
*pause to mop tea from my keyboard and monitor*
You made me spittake! You did!
*grins*
You’re awesome.
Keira Marcos said
That was not a denial, right?
marmalade said
please temporarily put me out of my misery by updating soon….. I say temporarily because after a week I’ll be back to obsessing again. (sorry I’m such a hypocrite – I have a fic that’s far more overdue for an update than yours’ is [ and far shorter too]….I just like your fic so much more than mine….
djaddict said
I would like to second that spittake!
Totally cracked me up!
And you are probably right.
*blushes*
Keira Marcos said
I feel like I should apologize but I don’t apologize for orgasms.
Anne said
I just finished reading all four chapters in Ties That Bind and I’m in love. Normally BDSM isn’t my thing but the way the world is set up, it pulled me in. It’s great that the subs are protected by the doms, and that you don’t put out false ideas – for instance, Matthew showing how hard he works to maintain his body with watching what he eats so he can splurge one day a week and the cardio workouts as well, and John and Rodney having safe sex until they were medically cleared. The interaction between the training houses is interesting, especially the greetings. I really enjoyed reading about John’s expanding family and can’t wait to see what happens when they leave for Atlantis. The Lorne-Matthew pairing is excellently set up and I’m on the edge of my seat waiting to see how it plays out as well as seeing Miko find her dom. To what lenghts will Gerard and his 12 go to for Rodney’s protection and what about revenge on Sam’s actions?
marmalade said
please update…. i just finished watching a lady heather episode of csi las vegas and now i want an update even more….please update soon…please… i’m just getting more and more pathetic…. everything reminds me of your fic (insert sad puppy face)
Rachel said
this is utterly gorgeous! i have read it twice since i discovered it on monday! your take on bdsm is fantastic and very hot. i love the relationships you have set up, and am looking forward to how things go on atlantis. i would love to see more or gerard!
i am impressed and completely in love with your fics as always.
djaddict said
I completely love your John Sheppard in this.
In fact, I love all of your interpretations of John Sheppard. I thought it was just because he was more forceful, more demanding and just seemed stronger emotionally than canon John but then in this fic I found the fundamental thing that makes the biggest difference.
Somewhere in “Learning To Belong” John states to one of his Marines that: “Stupidity can be excused, Corporal, but the only reason for ignorance is laziness and sloth doesn’t even exist in John Sheppard Land.”
In comparison to canon where in The early part of Season 2 (Episode – “Prisoners” I think) John tells Ronon that he is just “basically lazy.”
This one little thing makes such a difference in his characterization and it makes him one that I love even more than in canon.
Keira Marcos said
I’m really of the opinion that you can’t get to the rank of Major and be a lazy ass.
Anne said
This was totally outstanding. Your characters, canon and original, are *incredible*. I’m so glad somebody recced this to a list I’m on. This is probably one of the best SGA stories I’ve ever read and *definitely* the hottest. However, now that I’m addicted, I’m likely to whine until I get more. As an aside, I’m visually impaired and your site is a little difficult for me — I have to copy and paste to a program so I can pump the fonts up huge. Do you possibly have something like a mailing list for update notifications?
Keira Marcos said
I’m glad you enjoyed it. I’m sorry about the font thing. This is the only template I could really use at WordPress that worked well for my organization AND had a white background because a LOT of people had a problem when I used a dark background.
There are various ways to stalk me! Check out the many various ways:
http://keiramarcos.com/stalk-me/
Anne said
Keira, I’ve been reading the comments for this and Sentinels of Atlantis (just copied that off to read) and re the people complaining about typos, etc. — if you’d ever be interested in an extra beta to tidy up mechanics, just let me know. Will be happy to give you my qualifications if you’d like. I freely admit to the ulterior motive of hoping to read your work that much sooner.
Keira Marcos said
Thanks for the thought but a beta requires more time than i can currently devote to this site. If I had a beta I’d post a lot less than I already do.
M said
Wondering whether you heard about Low Browse:
http://lighthouse.org/aboutus/lowbrowse
especially if you use Firefox as webbrowser.
I always use in Firefox: View – Page style – No style and then zoom in to get bigger text, that way I don’t have to copy/paste vast amounts of text.
marmalade said
have I mentioned that I’m obsessed…..I just keep rereading it, really awesome!
marmalade said
can you please update this fic before thanksgiving or atleast two days after…. my mom is coming and there is no way I can read a new update when she’s here…. and there is even less chance of me resisting reading an update if you post one even if she is here…. please have pity – if you don’t update before thanksgiving could you at least tell me you would wait so I don’t think about this site when I’m making stuffing?! pleasae….. stop my brain from imploding….
Keira Marcos said
I’m finished with the next part. I’m just letting it sit so I can do a final read through. Should be by Monday or Tuesday. I’d say sooner but I’m still sick.
marmalade said
hooray! thanks a billion! I hope that you feel better soon – thanks for putting me out of my missery…
Kim said
Oh my god – now I’m going to be obsessively checking this site for the next two days! (Not that I haven’t been, already…) I love this fic, I really do.
Hope you feel better soon!
Anne said
“Inferno” is putting it mildly. I hope hope hope we do get to see John and Rodney take their couples session — and I’m *really* hoping to see more of Gerard. Thank you for sharing this wonderful, wonderful series!!!!
hewlettluver said
just had to say i love this series and can’t wait for the next update
chrisking2005 said
I’m quite shamelessly addicted to this.
Hell, who am I kidding? I’m addicted to *all* your fic.
You’re Just That Good.
I have your site permanently added to my favourites bar – and like most of your readers, I confess to being more that a little OCD when it comes to checking for updates. And re-reading. Numerous times.
*crosses fingers and toes, and prays to the gods of fic that you’ll update soon*
*slips your smutbunnies handcrafted chocolate truffles (made with the finest Belgian chocolate, of course!) and exquisite coffee*
*gives you my very best sweet lil ole lady smile*
marmalade said
so when will they get a cat in this fic? I don’t think a fic is quite complete until Rodney gets a cat or a cat type thingy
perhaps on his first gate trip he could adopt one…. or teyla could get one for them as a ‘bonding’ gift…. the possibilities could be endless, but I just want Rodney to have is Quark!
Eva said
Well, its December 1, are you finished? Please,Please,Please,Please,Please,Please
At least, confirm a date, ok?
Sareph HellFire said
You are a GOD of fanfiction!!! I love the whole world you crated! I would love more, Please!!!!
chrisking2005 said
*refresh*refresh*refresh*
*big grin*
It’s gotta be coming soon! You tweeted! Or twittered, or something!
*flails*
Yes, I’m a Luddite. But I know where the refresh button is and I’m not ashamed to use it!
Eva said
You evil woman!! Its TIME to update, don´t you think? I know tha you have a live but this is killing us. Please!!!!
Lisa said
This is great! Thanks
marmalade said
This is terrible, I’m even more obsessed! is the next update going to be soon? please…please…please
sarah said
I hope the update is today, it will make a perfect bday present
Keira Marcos said
Happy Birthday!
Billie said
I hope you are doing much better and that we will be seeing, reading and loving the next part soon. I have become compulsive about checking in and am bored with what I am reading. Have a great weekend.
Dema said
okay, what about letting someone podcast you fics? I’m re-reading the comment pages. That’s how addictive your stories are!
I can’t read them at work but I can take an Ipod to work so I can play my favorit fics.
I really do think that podcast of your fics would be popular and it would help us all pass on a new addictive habbit to others. Heck I’d learn to podcast and do it if I though I could give a great voice to your stories.
But really I think I need a new update soon. Even my kittens are addictied. (Okay only to your Quark story. They don’t try and read the others.)Soo Please update soon. I’m also thinking that Tayla should find a Quark for Rodney. And if Quark really is an Asgard who stocked Rodney in fanish glee you know he’d find away to get to Rodney. Bet it’s Hermiod. He’s soo take cat form to stock Rodney.
And this why I need updates. They keep me from plotting things like this.
chrisking2005 said
*sighs happily*
I just finished reading it all over again… and hitting refresh button a time or twelve.
This really is spectacular. I hope when the tale is done – after many, many more chapters, of course – I hope you make it available in a PDF, as you did with ‘The Awakening’.
Speaking of which…I haven’t read that in a while. That should keep my finger off the ‘refresh’ button for a bit!
IndigoCat said
Almost finished the first five parts. Looking forward to reading the sixth.
marmalade said
yay!!! thanks for the update!!!!
Vera said
You should be published. People standing in queues to read your books. Your work is just that amazing.
marmalade said
I agree! after you finish eating all the stargate plot-bunnies you should make an original universe and run with it – there might not be much of a public market for it but whatever you did would go right to cult-classic! I’m sure
Cynthia Sieler said
Thank you for the update! So far I have read this installment 6 times. I am realizing that, like most everyone else, I am very obessive when it comes to your work. I would also like to agree with Vera and Marmalade that your work should be published and I would very happily read any original stories. But PLEASE don’t stop writing the SGA fandom. I hope that you and your family have a very HAPPY HOLIDAY season!
DeeDee69 said
Oh. My. Good. God!
Absolute fantastic. Loved all of it.
Please can I have some more, ’sir’! I’ll get down on my knees if it will help encourage you to write more!
I can’t even pick out one single thing as the whole thing was brilliant!
Thank you.
Amanda said
I was actually rereading dark places again when you updated ties that bind last. I watched the hits number climb about 10,000 directly after the update posted… now is that a sign you have a lot of stalkers or what?
I love your work and I haven’t gotten tired rereading any of it.
Keira Marcos said
Yeah — I’m pretty sure I have some stalkers. That’s okay they mostly confine themselves to Twitter. LOL.
Val said
Ooh, new Doms on the character page! I’m very interested to see how they factor into the storyline.
Looking forward to the next part!
fanarts_series said
keira, i can’t help but love you with passion, the news characters are awesone, Mister DS9 (it’s a wet dream for a ST fan) and daddy winchester, i find Morgan so gorgeous, he’s as much beautiful and eat the light like gerard Butler, they are so beautiful we see only them when they’re on screen. And Avery, Sisko, seriously i’ve a huge crush, bring Patrick Steward and i would be in heaven.
marmalade said
…I don’t want to be pushy and I know how time consuming it is to write such long and wonderful chapters, but could you tell me if you will have the next one out before the 22nd…because I have to go home and my grandma will be there and I can’t think such lovely thoughts like in your work when she’s around… so please tell me that if you can’t get it out before then that you will lie to me and that you will have it out at new years instead…please,please set my mind at ease and help me not to be naughty around my grandma!
Keira Marcos said
LOL. I really don’t know if I have another update in me before Christmas but if I do it won’t be this verse. The next part in this series is pretty big and won’t be done before New Years.
marmalade said
thank you SO much for letting me know! No rush, just keep doing what you do ’cause it’s awesome!
Thanks for letting me rest my mind about deliciously naughty thoughts around the ‘rents and my grandma, otherwise it would be so very wrong….
Chris King said
*flails*
A big part?
New character pics?
Cliffhangers galore?
I’ll be clinging to the edge of my seat until you post the next bit…
LLN said
Thank you so much for the pictures of the actors that you cast as your orginal charaters. It’s nice to have a face to go with a name and Tom as General Rampart…so yum, yum!
Issaro said
You added JDM as a Dom and a disciple of Gerard? Are you *trying* to kill me? Seriously, woman! I may expire just from *imagining* the hot that is about to be unleashed in the next part.
animebarb said
Oh wow, two new doms but no matching subs . Please tell me that it isn’t because they are like Jordan, no sub would have them. I’m not sure I can take more like Jordan. And just a silly suggestion but could we just space Jordan on the way to Atlantis?? Someone could sabotage the Gate so he would have to go by ship and then- OOPS!!! Bye bye Mr. Nasty. (I know, that creative mind of yours probably has tons of awful things for him to do to John and Rodney. Sigh!!)
Anyway, two more characters to ponder, a really nice present. As always thank you for all your hard work. Barb
Keira Marcos said
Sydney and Mason were trained by Gerard de Sade.
animebarb said
So we are going to be meeting more of the disciples, cool. I so look forward to that. I can imagine they have submissives of their own, collared or not. No Dom trained by Gerard would lack for attendance. Waiting impatiently while telling myself to get a grip, you have other responsibilites. Barb
Chris King said
Okay, I’ve been a very well behaved fangirl, managing to project the sort of dignity and decorum that is appropriate for Ladies of A Certain Age.
And then you had to do… *that*.
*throws dignity out the window and indulges in a shameless and thoroughly gleeful squee, achieving the appropriate frequency – like that of a dolphin on an adrenaline high*
*does a genteel boogie woogie around the room in celebration*
Dare I suspect that IOA representative will be the one who so coddles Rodney? I can only believe that deSade, while he may not know the classified details, would have enough reach to ensure that his disciples are fully aware of Rodney’s worth.
*sighs*
Why do I think I’m going to hate the asshat even more before the end of the next chapter? It’s only my confidence in your devotion to Happy Endings that lets me put up with the ‘nancy assed prima donna’ as it is.
I can just hear Tom Selleck growling out that line. *beams at you*
I think you’re wonderful. *waves my Official Fangirl pom poms for you*
And another thing!
Avery Brooks!
*starts the cybernetic fangirl version of the Mexican Wave in appreciation*
I thought he was great back when he was on ‘Spenser for Hire’, and he rocked in DS9. So yay for your casting once again.
A big part in the New Year.
A big part in the New Year.
A big part in the New Year.
*does the geriatric fangirl chairdance of glee*
Keira Marcos said
I promised marmalade that I wouldn’t update this AU until after Christmas so she wouldn’t have porn induced squirms near her Grandma at Christmas Dinner– which begs a question…. Just how does she know that her grandma isn’t one of my BIGGEST fans
Chris King said
Hee!
She could be! I mean, I’m probably old enough to be marmalade’s grandma. There’s alot of geriatric fangirls out there, so really, you should update early… because geriatric fangirls are greedy. Take my word for it!
You could consider it a public service! Or you could post on Boxing Day – safely after Christmas Dinner. Better yet, you could update *today* and then marmalade would have several days to get over smut related squirming.
Really. It would be a Good Thing to update early. Marmalade’s nana will say thank you!
marmalade said
I’m not that lucky, my grandma is a hardcore South Dakota conservative republican – any one of these things aren’t bad but together it unfortunately means the most we EVER do is watch the weather channel and cook…not that I don’t love her ’cause I do, but she is most definitely not even the least bit open minded(I don’t even think she knows what all there is-she would freak out that this kind of fiction existed at all…she just misses all the joys of life)
Keira Marcos said
That’s really too bad. I like to think my grandma would’ve totally been a McShepper.
marmalade said
I’ve always liked the saying ‘friends are just family we choose’
Keira Marcos said
Nah, Sydney and Mason just like to play hard and often together. Neither are ready to commit themselves to collaring a submissive.
Soshoni said
“Sydney and Mason just like to play hard and often together.”
Guh. *thud*
x_x
I’ll be looking forward to the new year.
Keira Marcos said
Yeah– I’m seriously evil.
Chris King said
But in the best possible way!
Your kind (I just typed ‘kink’ instead of kind! Talk about Freudian slips!)
Ahem. The world needs more of your brand of evil.
fanarts_series said
oh my …. it’s pavlovian because when you say some things like that i want to kiss your feet, hope that your lovely husband isn’t jealous about yours fans who worship you.
Kim said
Thanks for the heads up regarding the next update – I won’t go OCD on your site until New Years Eve. But new Doms! A BIG next part?! Wow.
I’ll re-read all of this and start on the Sentinels, should keep me busy until next year
Vera said
Why must you keep us in suspense. New Year’s is almost three weeks away. Oh well you’re probably doing me a favor this way I will have to concentrate on my papers. Je vous pardonne.
yinka wills said
Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year to you, Kiera.
Thanks and virtual hugs for providing wonderful stories,that were a lovely escape when RL (in the form of chronic pain, happily ceased for now) was not too nice.
Am eagerly awaiting the next instalment of this series, which has now replaced What Might Have Been as my favourite.
Yinka
Vicki said
I just had to re-read the whole Ties that bind – series, while waiting for more new posts. Thank goodness for vacation days
I very much want to see what happens with Evan and Matt – so hot, more on that please….
But I love it all, and finally go into the Sentinel verse as well. Took me a while for some reason, but so glad I got there.
Love all you write, very much looking forward to what 2010 brings. Happy New, and all the best.
sexycazzy said
Hi, I saw comments on the latest chapters about character pictures and I had to go and look for them – and wow!
You – you are the best! ~grins~
Gerard Butler as de Sade made me go WOW!
And Jensen Ackles as Matthew Sheppard – just prefect and goes well with Lorne!
Oh my god Tom Selleck – he’s one of my favourite actors! I want to see more of Rampart – just so that I can imagine Tom as Rampart! ahhh..
In fact, I think I’m going to re-read all the chapters with the images in my mind!
Thank you, thank you!
Rachel said
As a present to myself I just re-read all the stories, and decided it was even better than I thought on first reading. Also took the time to put faces to names and loved the casting of JDMorgan i can see him losing it during the punishing of Shepherd. Looking forward to the next one, so many places to go I am looking forward to the journey
Cynthia Sieler said
I love this series so much. I can’t wait for the next installment, I would love to see Patrick and Gerard get together and take on Kevin Jordan. I am also wondering what happened with Kavanaugh? What if he and Jordan worked together to make the boys miserable? As one of your many internet stalkers I eagerly wait for your next words!
RavynOwl said
I am very much enjoying this series.
Just a little FYI, and if you already know this, I misread, or somebody pointed it out already, feel free to ignore it: the Joint Chiefs are all 5-star Generals (Admiral). This is so they outrank everyone but the President, and there is no question about time-in-rank. This is also why none is ever replaced until they retire. If all goes well, each generation will produce a total of 4 5-stars.
Thanks for the excellent stories! (I know, after know-it-alling, it doesn’t seem sincere, but it is. I just have a long military history in my family, so I learned sorts of stuff, literally, at Grandpa’s knee.)
Keira Marcos said
I didn’t know that about the Joint Chiefs actually. The current Chief of Staff for the Air Force is a 4 star.
Issaro said
Another bit of trivia – there is no five star rank in the Marine Corps. (The Commandant is a four star general.) And I believe it would take an act of Congress to create the five star rank in the Corps. Which isn’t to say that it works that way in your AU =)
dema69 said
Also like the Naval rank of commodore admiral five stars is normaly a war commision. They stopped giving out the commmodore out cause the Army complaned of all things. I think that it should be brought back. Some ot the proudest naval officers I knew growing up were Commodores.
Keira Marcos said
I looked it up and it seems like a 5 star anything is almost always a war time appointment.
I looked it up– all the current Joint Chiefs of Staff are 4 star:
http://www.jcs.mil/
RavynOwl said
Both my grandfathers served in WW2, so that’s probably where my error was. I looked it up in Wikipedia. General of the Army, General of the Air Force and Fleet Admiral of the Navy (the official titles listed in Wiki) are 5-stars. Commandant of the Marine Corps is a 4-star.
Issaro said
I love the detailed world building you’re doing with this, and spend way to long reading comments for little gems/insights into how this world works. I was hoping you might add to that by answering a question for me?
You’ve mentioned schools in North American, Europe, and Asia but I can’t remember seeing anything from the Mid-East or India. I know there have to be schools there but will we meet someone from there or learn about their schools? I ask because these are the cultures that gave rise to the Harem and the Kama Sutra. I can just imagine how a harem would have fit seamlessly in the not so distant past of this universe. Or how people might dream of studying in a house in India where the kama sutra has become a way of life.
Obviously, the world is a big place and there are going to be lots of things you can’t incorporate but I thought I’d ask if you had any thoughts on it. As always, thanks for all you dedication to bringing these stories to life for us!
Keira Marcos said
When I first started building this world I decided that de Sade was the oldest “formal” pleasure house on the planet that still exists. There were of course ancient ones in the past– especially in Rome. That being said– the birth place of the harem (especially in this world) would be a center of hedonistic pleasure in the present day. There are pleasure houses all over the world– some spread out over many countries and some don’t.
La Petite Mort is the second oldest established house and it’s spread over much of Europe and the Americas. de Sade was founded in France but moved to Canada — I sort of picture a turf war with La Petite Mort being the reason de Sade moved to Canada– that in their position on submissives not being slaves.
Carson Beckett is a tantric sex master and was trained in a house in Europe that specializes in that training Doms for that kind of sexual experience. It makes him perfect for Miko in that respect and you’ll find that he even has a repuation among submissives both on Atlantis and at the SGC for his ability to pleasure for hours. I have his house name written down in my notes
for when it comes up.
Issaro said
Lovely. Thank you for the insight. Now I really can’t wait to see Miko and Carson’s relationship develop.
Another question if you don’t mind – and feel free to plead the fifth if the answer would give away more than you’d like. To date, John has been very forth coming on how he has no reservations about punishing Rodney if he earns it. I was wondering if we were going to see Rodney acting out and John actually having to punish him at some point.
I love that their relationship is a guaranteed happy ever after but I can’t really imagine a world in which Rodney doesn’t get into some kind of trouble eventually. I’d really love to see how their partnership grows as Rodney finds out that John loves him enough to keep him in line, as it were.
Keira Marcos said
I think it would be completely out of character if he didn’t if he didn’t show his ass eventually.
fanarts_series said
Oh my, you are going to punish our Rodney, isn’t it ? Make me affraid because John isn’t a lenient dom, but it’s true that Rodney can be off lines sometimes, he’s just so subborn and into his job, with his smart mouth he can be in trouble.
But i don’t wait this with impatience because i’m already traumatized by the scenes of punishment in the world of Xanthe, i thought innocently escape that here brrr lol !
summer said
THIS. this is so far BEYOND AWESOME I don’t even have words. Please can I live in your head forever?
I already adored Xanthe’s work and I LOVE what you did here!
Not to sound greedy, but is there going to be more? Sorry, but you totally have me addicted!
*hearts*
summer said
oh, and by the way: all the way through reading this GORGEOUS story I kept wondering if we’re going to get another glimpse or even the whole story about Rodney’s sessions with Gerard? I’m so curious about Rodney’s education and how he became the amazing sub he is now
fanarts_series said
Question (again, i apologize)
You invite people to WMHG to play in TTB universe, do you thing about have Ian and Jimmy at some point of the fic ?
Keira Marcos said
I don’t think so actually– I can’t figure out how I’d see their dynamic.
Chris King said
Huh.
*blinks*
Well, damn it, I’m in the same boat. My brain seems to think that they’re totally non-dynamic, which is weirder than hell because they’re both smokin’ hot.
It’s all very odd.
fanarts_series said
chris, it isn’t odd, you share a brain with Keira, isn’t it ? voilà tout !
Chris King said
*laughing*
I wish I did! Then I’d know what happens next!
Soshoni said
I’ve been lurking and reading the comments.
This is all just in the happy little dreamland in my head. (I may have spent some special alone time thinking about this because they’re some of my favorite characters of yours.)
Figured I’d share in case parts of it make you go “Hey, good point…” or “Hey, that’s not right, they’re actually…”
Jimmy’s a switch who is used to playing both sides of the field and often – he’s hella attractive. He always knew that his options were more open than most, and so he actually trained at a pleasure house in order to master his dynamic, unlike the two other switches that have been featured so far (Carter, Ford). He’s a player, yes, but not an irresponsible one in terms of his safety and the safety of his partners. I don’t see him as having any serious pain kinks either way, but he’s definitely an exhibitionist. He always came across in the other series as not very discriminatory, but comfortable with it, and that’s how it translated across universes for me. I also kind of needed a positive and self aware switch to counterbalance Carter and Ford in my head, and he pretty effortlessly fit into that for me.
Ian’s a dom who struggled more with his family than his dynamic, as they were of the opinion that he didn’t need any formal training, but he didn’t agree with their “a firm hand and a sound thrashing every once in a while will keep a sub in line” approach, nor with their choice of a submissive for him. He’s either on the outs with them over the fact that he attended a pleasure house, or he’s been hiding the fact that he got actual training from them and will be on the outs with them when they find out. I figure he isn’t done training yet – he’s had like one session and is saving up money and leave time for another while he serves in the military, as a nod to his inexperience in the other series, but he’s trying. No pain kinks or only minor ones. I also see him as one of those laidback doms who like complete control in the bedroom but don’t need it quite as much in the rest of the relationship.
And their relationship’ll be a rocky one, but they’ll work it out. At some point they’ll go for a couple’s session, wherein they’ll pick up a few things that they needed help on, and affirm some of their own solutions for things. Ian’s pretty content to let Jimmy handle most things outside of the actual sex, which satisfies a lot of Jimmy’s toppier urges, and when he needs something a little more, they either pick up a pretty sub for the weekend or Ian lets Jimmy tie him up and work it out.
Keira Marcos said
YOU know– you make me see that.
fanarts_series said
I’m impressed, your comm Soshoni is like a drabble, make sense a lot, wow ! bravo.
Giggles149 said
this could be like an interlude
I thought Jimmy could be a switch who keeps orbiting around Ian. Although I had picked Ian as a sub without any pain kinks or training. His parents wanted to marry him off to this Domme who just wanted to live off his salary. They had however a very bad dynamic mesh (she was a bit of a sadist) and she actually broke his arm when they played (she also had no training). Since then he has kinda gone non dynamic and has not played with anyone. He is however drawn to Jimmy and because of Jimmys switchiness (is that even a word?) he doesn’t feel threatened and kinda eases into the play by firstly just having sex with what feels like another sub. After a while both Jimmy and Ian realise that for all Jimmys slutiness, he actually has not touched or been touched by anyone since he started with Ian.
I had to stop there, because I am hopelessly sappy and it never really sounds good after that
Giggles149 said
I can’t believe I got intrigued by characters not even in this story … anyway they could become the boy toys of Mason and Sydney, maybe Jimmy and Ian would be challenging enough together, but in very different ways.
fanarts_series said
Nice idea, jimmy and ian in the hands of those alpha doms, rhoooo….
Keira please………….
Keira Marcos said
I really can’t. lol.
fanarts_series said
*pout* lol !!!!
Giggles149 said
despite all the pouting going on (myself included) rest assured that your ideas and story developments have always surpassed my little flights of fancy
fanarts_series said
Ok, thanks, i have to ask because i’ve the hots for slutty Jimmy, see him exhib is a wet dream and a orgasmic moment.
meredith said
Question: Does every country have a training house and Lotus, La Petit Mort, De Sade just the most famous?
Keira Marcos said
There are hundreds of pleasures houses around the world and some are more famous than others.
fanarts_series said
Question (yes i can be so greedy, demanding and exasperating, désolé madame)
A guy like rodney has three sessions and also have go to university to have his diplomas.
Can they study and been trained in the sames times ? Or are they alternately the both activities.
fanarts_series said
oh and yes a last question for now if you don’t mind.
Which are the house of Jack and Cameron ?
Cameron wanted Rodney, he’s a masochist ?
Keira Marcos said
Jack O’Neill trained at La Petite Mort.
Cameron Mitchell trained at de Sade.
fanarts_series said
yeah !!!! i was good, thanks for the respons.
Keira Marcos said
Rodney did his pleasure house sessions in the summer except for his third which he had to take a semester off from school to do since it lasted six months.
RavynOwl said
The question about Mid-East pleasure houses made me take a quick trip down the Google road to the mythology of the Mid-East. I can say that, whatever actually happens, I’ve learned a few things…*fans self* And my mind has Daniel in one of ‘em (we haven’t seen his house yet, I don’t think…) *evil grin*
Kim said
OK, you’ll have to write us an essay regarding the different pleasure houses in your universe
Awesome.
I’m starting to get a mite OCD on your site again, is there any chance for a slight hint as to when we will see a new chapter?
(Actually it’s not “a mite OCD”, I’m completely pathetic over here. I totally love this fic!)
Keira Marcos said
I’d say February to be honest but if you’re on my newsletter– you’ll be notified when I update. LOL.
wonapalei said
I note that there’s no picture of Sam anywhere on the cast page; any plans to add her? I also note that Kevin Jordan is the only one on the cast page not to have a partner listed next to him (how my heart bleeds for the poor baby /sarcasm). It’s not a pairing I consider remotely likely at this point, but maybe you could add her picture next to his under the title “not if they were the last Dom(me) on Earth”? I’m pretty sure both their pictures are up at the Atlantis Dom Hall of Fame under that heading–and I’m damn sure John’s under “I’m going to Disney World”.
Keira Marcos said
Well we all know who plays Sam Carter. I just never added her to the page. I’ll think about it. I have a great picture of Amanda Tapping (who is really quite beautiful) and I want to add the picture for Dato Raja and his Dragon.
wonapalei said
Wait, wait–Dato Raja has a Dragon? Or do you mean Gerard’s Dragon? Also–yay for possibly seeing what Dato Raja looks like! I still can’t wait till he shows up “on-screen” and Uber-Doms everyone into submission!
And, yeah, I knew who plays Sam, I just thought it seemed a little incomplete having Jack and Daniel but no Sam, especially when she was so prominent in the Earth chapters. And totally agreed: Amanda Tapping is a beautiful woman, and it’s easy to see how Rodney could have overlooked her lack of training and bad dynamic match to fall for her.
Keira Marcos said
Dato Raja has a female Dragon. I’ve already cast them both in my mind. Chow Yun Fat for Raja and Kelly Hu as his Dragon.
nattie said
Just perfect and i think that Dato Raja must be very proud of John and the way he is protecting not only Rodney, Matt and Miko but every sub on Atlantis .
fanarts_series said
i like a lot Kelly and thanks to google now i know Chow Yun Fat, he’s a pretty man and kind of scary too, he’s perfect for the cast of Dato, i think he’s the type than you don’t want to see piss off at you.
Issaro said
*laughs*
All this time, I’ve been envisioning Dato Raja as Gordon Liu and now he’s revealed to be Chow Yun Fat. Which isn’t to say that Chow Yun Fat isn’t a wonderful choice but the mental whiplash between the two may kill me.
Since you’re adding a picture, does that mean he’ll get on screen time?
Keira Marcos said
HA! That’s very funny because I almost picked Gordon Liu early on but changed my mind. (i watched Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and my decision was made).
Kim said
I love Chow Yun Fat, he’s cool, but I have to admit you confuse me with an image of such a young Dato Raja. If John started his training at 15, it ought to be like 20 years back, and Dato Raja must already have been a renowned master since Gerard trained for him only a couple of years before.
I’m trying to get their ages to add up, but I think in the end you’ll have to write that essay!
But I SO hope we will see Dato Raja “on screen”, I’d love to see the interaction between him and John. Or to borrow wonapaleis words: see him Uber-Dom everyone. Hot. Seriously.
Keira Marcos said
Chow Yun Fat is 55 in real life but in this series the character of Dato’ Raja is 60 but I never give his age in the story itself because I didn’t consider it important. John was trained by him from 15-19 and John is now 35 in this series. Dato’ Raja was 40 when John began his training. I think that Chow Yun Fat could play a “young” 60 in a movie. I used that younger picture of him because most of the time he smiles big and cheesy for the camera and that’s not exactly the image I wanted for Dato’ Raja and that was the only serious decent picture I could find of him that I thought I was sexy too.
Seri Raja has been a power house in the training world since he was marked himself. His family spreads out over most of Asia to China and Japan. His sister is the House Mistress of Lotus. By the time Gerard trained with him– Gerard had to petition for his private tutelage and it wasn’t an automatic yes.
Keira Marcos said
Though I was calling him that “Kill Bill Guy” In my head.
Chris King said
This still makes me squee.
Quite shamelessly, in fact.
Barb H said
Imspired casting. I always thought of Chow Yun Fat as the strict but good mentor – kind but demanding (ala Crouching Tiger”). Than I saw “Curse Of the Yellow Flower”, his character was all calm facade but psycotic as hell (not that Raja is psychotic). Anyway, that made it easier for me to see him as really intense, edgy.
See you put nasty Sam next to nasty Jordan, great choice – maybe they could get together, heavan knows they deserve each other. It would be good for the world. Then they could mistreat each other and leave the subs alone. Barb
atuinsails said
I was just going over the very pretty pictures of your cast when I saw you had James Wood as Kevin Jordan. I don’t know how I missed that before, but I can so see that, sort of like his character out of The Specialist with Sharon Stone and Stallone.
Keira Marcos said
James Woods has always struck me as the kind of actor that could play characters that will go to Special Hell.
Amanda said
probably off topic but,
is it funny that when you said ’special hell’ I just flashed to firefly/serenity, and started to wonder what that showverse would be like if it had dynamic added to it?
Keira Marcos said
well it’s hard to think of Special Hell and not think about Firefly.
Kitson said
Hiya
Nice choice for Raja, Chow Yun Fat has been a favourite of mine for quite a long time, he’s just sooooooooooooo!!!!!.
Luv K.
Wyntyr said
I adore the picture choices for your characters. I only have one question – you list Sam Carter as a Domme but the point that she’s a switch is a pivotal point in the story. Will this be changing? If so, will it be another major plot point or just a side note?
Keira Marcos said
She identifies as a Domme even though she’s technically a switch. She’s never admitted this in public– it’s just what people say about her. Rodney knew for sure because he was married to her.
fanarts_series said
Oops my naughty finger closed the post,
I try again.
Keira, i have a question, in your mind, how do you see Andre Morgan, long or short hair, because i found some lovely pics of Jonathan where he’s barechest but with middle long hair. I want your opinion before make a fanart.
Bye, Marie-Line.
Keira Marcos said
I think he wears his hair in anyway Gerard might prefer. I’m sure it’s been long in the past.
fanarts_series said
Oki !!! question 2 : can i put a naked man in front in the creas, i can hide the cock if you want ?
Keira Marcos said
Yeah– we’d better hide the cock. I have an adult warning on my site but I’d rather not have to hide a picture behind a cut or a password.
fanarts_series said
i try to hide the “chose” but i want to put this pic, it’s wonderful and sexy.
I finish the Rampart fanarts in a few moments, my first ship fanart yehh.
FairyChild said
Hi I just wanted to tell you how much I love this story. And that I hope more is coming on the way. You have made such a wonderful world. I loved Xanthe’s story as well it makes me happy to see so many people doing things like this. But so far yours is one that I loved the best. I also wanted to give you this in hopes that we will get more fic. *grin*
and just in case here is the link: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Jehara/ART/Mikoflower.jpg
Keira Marcos said
That’s so pretty!
FairyChild said
yay I am glad you like it!
FairyChild said
Here is a sightly different version then the one above. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Jehara/ART/Mikoflower2.jpg?t=1264465238
Christine said
I am really enjoying all of the artwork that has been inspired by your fantastic written works. Thanks for posting both!
rellan said
*happy scream at seeing Chow Yun Fat*
FairyChild said
Here sweet heart http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Jehara/ART/Gerard.jpg?t=1264632962 because you have made to many characters that I have fallen in love with. This one a bit more simple then the other but lets face it he speaks for himself lol.
FairyChild said
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Jehara/ART/2LtComanderMattSheppard.jpg?t=1264672947
Okay I’ll stop now. *Grin* I think I’ll just read the story again..through that might lead to more fanart. Its a scary circle that’s what it is.
Keira Marcos said
You don’t have to stop
. You make all the art you want sweetie.
FairyChild said
Thank you.
fanarts_series said
FairyChild, it’s awesome don’t stop but i’m like you, sometimes i’m affraid to annoy Keira to sending to her my fanarts.
FairyChild said
Yes, thats what it is I don’t want to annoy anyone. And I love having a world I can focus on to make stuff. I went and checked out your LJ, very cool stuff by the way, love.
marmalade said
I have a question about marking at the pleasure houses. so f someone s called back for a second or third session and they fail do they get a mark for the previous session(s) they took or do they not get anything? ’cause it seems like they should get some credit but Rodney’s sister knew he went for two sessions and didn’t think he was marked so could you clarify this point for me please! ( every time I reread this series I catch new things
)
Keira Marcos said
When Rodney wasn’t marked by de Sade after his second session, Jeannie meanly assumed he wasn’t worthy of being marked. A pleasure house can decline to mark a Dom or a submissive if they fail to meet their standards. But Gerard had his eye on Rodney even during his first session so no other Dom in the house offered to mark him after his first or second sessions. Which they could’ve done since the de Sade mark is a Star burst– points could’ve been added after each session. They chose out of respect for Gerard not to mark Rodney at all so he would be unmarked when he began his Courtesan sessions. Rodney wasn’t privy to this information but never doubted that he would eventually be marked in some fashion by de Sade.
marmalade said
oh, that makes perfect sense! thanks this was just sitting in the back of my mind driving me quietly insane – not a far trip admittedly -
marmalade said
Do you have any sort of time line for when in February the next chapter will come out? Because I need to know when to get obsessive and check the site four times a day, it would set many minds at ease to know if it will be out this week – next week – Valentines Day – end of the month … Your site just consumes my life when I think another chapter is coming out – in a good way though!
Michelle said
Someone from the Slashpile community on livejournal recommended me this fic and as soon as I saw that it was insipred by Xanthe’s fanfiction I knew that I had to give it a try and I wasn’t dissapointed. Your story has everything a reader could ask for; great characterization, intriguing storylines, and of course great sub/dom dynamics. Thank you for writing this fic! I look forward to reading future parts.
scifigrl0 said
I was just reading a story a came across the fact that male geisha where called Taikomochi and thought that with Matt being a geisha it would be something you would be interested in knowing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taikomochi
christella said
reading the replies to keira,is so fantatic,how many people including myself are addicted to this world you have created.
the really great questions about rank and dynamic and pleasure houses just expands this brilliant world
i reread your stories often,have been unwell and now out of hospital and the computer and your wonderful stories keep me sane.
any update on any of your stories would be wonderful.
house_of_lantis said
Hi! Wow, I really loved your series. What a fantastic world! It was so wonderfully detailed and you spent time with your secondary characters as much as your John/Rodney pairing (which is fantastic because I was seriously getting drawn in by your secondary pairings – and squeed when they came into the story). I love world building in stories and yours is uniquely your own (I noticed the shout out to Xanthe but really, your world is so different from hers with its own rules and deep history). I’m sure I’m not the only one to hope that you will continue in this verse! I look forward to reading more from you soon. Thanks so much! Regards, HoL
Winterhart said
Kind of a random question… didn’t you have a music list that inspired you?
And can I ask where the series title came from?
It will answer a question I had listening to music tonight. *grin*
Keira Marcos said
Well to be honest the series title came from the lyrics of “I Walk the Line” by Johnny Cash but I have a pretty big play list that I write on this series. I put my play list up for What Might Have Been which is full of romancey fluffy music. This series really wasn’t inspired by that stuff. LOL. Let’s see:
Right Here by Staind
I’d Come for You by Nickelback
Savin’ Me by Nickelback
Kryptonite by 3 Doors Down
Here Without You by 3 Doors Down
When I’m Gone by 3 Doors Down
3 am by Matchbox Twenty
Unwell by Matchbox Twenty
Somewhere I Belong by Linkin Park
You and Me by Lifehouse
Under Pressure by Queen and David Bowie (of course)
What About Now by Daughtry
The Reason by Hoobastank
This Love by Maroon 5
Harder to Breathe by Maroon 5 (of course)
Slow Dancing in a Burning Room by John Mayer (off theme, right?)
There is more but I can’t think of them at the moment.
Syble said
How did you get a hold of my IPod??
Great song list.
Keira Marcos said
My abilities are fierce.
haunted1019 said
Wow! I just finished reading all of the installments of this series and just…wow! I can’t wait for the next chapter.
Shamil62 said
I have been stalking your site religiously for a while now and rarely leave comments. Still, I love everything you have written and wait with baited breath for the next installment. As I was waiting, I started to watch old episodes of Criminal Minds and had a very evil (and hot) thought. You said in the last update that Aaron Hotchner was a disciple of Gerard and I totally see where you got that idea. Are you possibly (please say yes) thinking of writing a dominant and submissive version of Criminal Minds? I personally think that it would be the most awesome and fantastic and especially hot thing out there if you did. Hopefully, this idea started something turning in your head.
Uh oh. I hope that my evil though doesn’t delay the next installment of Ties That Bind. If it does, ritualistic seppuku may be in my future.
Anyways, I hope that you have recovered from you illness earlier this year and are back to your usual self. Can’t wait to hear more about Carson and Miko.
Kim said
Wow! Thank you!
(Chow Yun Fat is 55? I had NO idea.)
Your fic eats my brains, in the best possible way. These background tidbits are amazing, and keeps me occupied until the next update.
Keira Marcos said
The eating of brains is strictly prohibited in Keira’s World.