Podcasts about argonaut

Hosts Frank Cifaldi and Phil Salvador chat with Mark and Michelle Flitman, a father-daughter duo, about Mark's career, his donated collection at the VGHF, and his autobiography: "It's Not All Fun and Games." As a semi-retired video game and toy producer, Mark shares his career highlights as a publisher producer throughout the 90's and into the early 2000's at Konami, Acclaim, Mindscape, Midway, and later, Atari. Most of his titles were licensed properties including The Simpsons (Bart's Nightmare, Virtual Bart), WWF (Royal Rumble and RAW), and several Marvel properties (Maximum Carnage). Michelle shares her efforts to preserve her father's collection, which includes concept art, design documents, and prototypes. You'll hear highlighted notable items like the Eclipse demo by Argonaut and the Monster Dunk project. The conversation also touches on the importance of trust in producer-developer relationships and the challenges of managing licensed properties.Mentioned in the show:Mark Flitman's development papers: https://archive.gamehistory.org/folder/205c628c-5d0a-4de8-a5a5-782f31706ac0.You can listen to the Video Game History Hour every other Wednesday on Patreon (one day early at the $5 tier and above), on Spotify, or on our website.See more from Michelle Flitman:Website: www.flitman.siteSee more from Mark Flitman:Book - Hardcover (Limited Run - Collector's Edition): “It's Not All Fun And Games”Book - Hardcover (Amazon): “It's Not All Fun And Games”Video Game History Foundation:Email: podcast@gamehistory.orgWebsite: gamehistory.orgSupport us on Patreon: /gamehistoryorg

Die geplante Mondmission Argonaut soll mit „Primzahlen“ den „Tiefenraum“ erforschen, heißt es in einer ESA-Pressemitteilung. Die Raumfahrtbehörde träumt vom Mond, verheddert sich aber oft auf der Erde – etwa mit automatischen Übersetzungen. Lorenzen, Dirk www.deutschlandfunk.de, Sternzeit

Seducers, Flatterers, Sorcerers, and more! Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Noah Tyler, CFO of the Classic Learning Test, and Gabriel Blanchard, a staff writer for CLT, to discuss the first part of the 8th Circle: Simple Fraud (Cantos 18-25).Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.Check out our written GUIDE to Dante's Inferno: 80+ Questions and Answer.FROM THE GUIDE:53. What happens in the Eighth Circle of Hell: Simple Fraud (Canto 18)The Eighth Circle of Hell holds the souls of those King Minos found guilty of simple fraud and is composed of “ten stone ravines called Malebolge (Evil Pockets), and across each bolgia is an arching bridge.”[1] Each of the ten bolgias (pits, ditches, pockets, etc.) is filled with souls guilty of a different species of simple fraud: (1) panders and seducers (2) flatters (3) simoniacs (4) sorcerers (5) barrators (6) hypocrites (7) thieves (8) deceivers (9) sowers of discord and (10) falsifiers. Each bolgia in Malebolgia exhibits a different contrapasso.54. What happens in the first ditch (Canto 18)?After leaving Geryon, the Pilgrim observes the souls in the first ditch. Here, “two files of naked souls walked on the bottom” with each line walking a different direction.[2] The Pilgrim also notes, “I saw horned devils with enormous whips lashing the backs of shades with cruel delight.”[3] The souls here are pimps or panders in one line and seducers in the other. Notably, Dante the Pilgrim sees Jason the Argonaut suffering amongst the seducers.[4] Notice, however, that these seducers are not those who fell into passion, like Francisca, but rather those who act with malice to deceive others. It is the malice of malevolent nature of these sins that distinguish them from the incontinent sins.55. What happens in the second ditch (Canto 18)?Leaving the first bolgia (ditch), the Pilgrim and Virgil come upon the souls of the flatters suffering in the second ditch. The Pilgrim observes, “Now we could hear the shades in the next pouch whimpering, making snorting grunting souls… from a steaming stench below, the banks were coated with a slimy mold that suck to them like glue, disgusting to behold and worse to smell.”[5] Here, grunting in a ditch of excrement, are the flatterers. The contrapasso of the second ditch invites a stark juxtaposition between the honeyed words of flattery and the sordid reality of their deception. The Pilgrim makes this quite evident in his observation of Thais: “that repulsive and disheveled tramp scratching herself with shitty fingernails, spreading her legs while squatting up and down.”[6] Repulsed by Thais, Virgil and the Pilgrim move on. It should be noted, however, that this flattery is a malicious flattery intended to deceive.56. How is flattery a worst sin than lust, murder, or suicide?

Just what the title said! Stoked about some news, we chat a few notes!

Commerciële maanmissies maken een opmars, en de recente landing van de Blue Ghost-lander van Firefly Aerospace onderstreept deze ontwikkeling. Firefly is een relatief jong ruimtevaartbedrijf dat naast de maanlander ook lichte draagraketten bouwt. Het bedrijf is onderdeel van een bredere trend waarin private ondernemingen een steeds grotere rol spelen in de verkenning van de maan. Met bedrijven als Intuitive Machines en ispace uit Japan lijkt er een nieuwe markt te ontstaan waarin commerciële missies de norm worden. De technische uitdagingen blijven echter groot, bespreken Ben van der Burg en Daniël Mol met technologiejournalist én space cowboy Thijs Roes. Een van de meest voorkomende problemen bij maanlandingen is dat veel landers omvallen. Dit heeft te maken met de lage zwaartekracht en het verraderlijke maanoppervlak. Succesvolle landingen vereisen extreme precisie en geavanceerde autonome besturingssystemen. Desondanks is de recente succesvolle landing van Blue Ghost een teken dat de technologie vordert. De vraag is waarom er nu plots zoveel interesse is in de maan. Er zijn meerdere redenen: de zoektocht naar waardevolle grondstoffen, zoals waterijs dat kan dienen als brandstof voor verdere ruimtemissies, en de maan als mogelijke tussenstop voor missies naar Mars. Interessant is dat Elon Musk weinig interesse toont in de maan en zijn focus op Mars houdt, terwijl Jeff Bezos met Blue Origin wél naar de maan kijkt. Overheden en ruimtevaartorganisaties spelen ook nog steeds een belangrijke rol. Europa werkt aan de Argonaut-lander, maar die zal pas in 2031 gelanceerd worden, wat de vraag oproept of overheden te traag bewegen in vergelijking met de private sector. Sinds de Apollo-missies in 1972 zijn er geen bemande maanlandingen meer geweest, deels door budgettaire beperkingen en deels door een gebrek aan geopolitieke urgentie zoals in de Koude Oorlog. Toch wordt er nu weer gewerkt aan bemande maanreizen, onder meer door NASA’s Artemis-programma. Een ander vraagstuk is de regelgeving. Kunnen bedrijven zomaar op de maan landen? En wie heeft het recht om maanmineralen te exploiteren? Er zijn internationale afspraken, zoals het Ruimteverdrag, maar in de praktijk nemen landen en bedrijven steeds meer eigen initiatieven. Tegelijk blijft ruimtevaart vaak buiten geopolitieke spanningen, al is het de vraag of dat zo blijft. Tot slot rijst de vraag of maanmissies nog te rechtvaardigen zijn in een wereld met urgente problemen op aarde. Ruimtevaart biedt innovatie en technologische vooruitgang, maar de kosten en ethische overwegingen blijven onderwerp van discussie. Wat betekent een permanente menselijke aanwezigheid op de maan voor de toekomst van de mensheid? De antwoorden hierop bepalen of de maan een nieuw hoofdstuk wordt in de menselijke beschaving. Gast Thijs Roes Video YouTube Hosts Ben van der Burg & Daniël Mol Redactie Daniël MolSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intro - Hand on yout heart 1. Last Night I Dreamt I Fell In Love (Extended Mix) ft. Alok 2. I Was Gonna Cancel (Moto Blanco remix) 3. Je ne sais pas pourquoi (Argonaut remix) 4. Into The Blue (Dirty Pop Deconstruction) 5. Celebration (AKA Good Times Mix) 6. Real groove (Stacy Mier DMC remix) ft. Dua Lipa 7. Come into my world (Select mix) 8. Shocked (DNA Mix) 9. In your eyes (Ultimix) 10. Tension (Shadow Child Extended Mix) 11. What Do I Have To Do (Remix) 12. Your Disco Needs You (Almighty Mix) 13. Better Than Today (Bellatrax Remix) 14. Hand On Your Heart (Wip Remix) 15. Spinning Around (7th District Club Mental Mix)

In this episode, Anthony and Ashton go behind the Mic with National Broadcaster, TV and Radio Host, accomplished Author and Sports Media Personality, Paul Romanuk. FatherSon FunTalk with the popular Media personality. You have seen and heard Romy star on Hockey Night in Canada, TSN, Olympic Games, numerous international Hockey broadcasts, Blue Jays baseball, Raptors Basketball and Argonaut football. He is also Author of Hockey Superstars a popular Book Series for 40+ years, and Host of an Award-Winning Music and Entertainment Podcast - The Walrus Was Paul. They also go Gold, Silver, Bronze for Winter-inspired Athlete names. The Show concludes with All-Pro Go and a salute to their Champs & Chums.

This week's critter creates one of the most beautiful shells in the ocean. But they're not your run-of-the-mill shell-dweller: the pupu tarakihi or knobbled argonaut (Argonautus nodosus) is one of the world's weirdest octopuses. Female knobbled argonauts create their beautiful translucent shells by excreting minerals out of two enlarged tentacles. They are the only creature in the world that makes a shell out of their own arms. The shells are both a nursery for their eggs and young and a place to tuck away as they drift on the ocean surface.

Mike Hogan, is a Canadian sportscaster who was a sports talk radio host on TSN Radio 1050 in Toronto, Ontario. He also serves as the play-by-play voice for the 2024 Grey Cup Champion Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League for that station's gameday broadcasts, as well as their Manager of Communications. Hogan was formerly a long time sports talk radio host on Toronto station CJCL (AM), branded "The Fan 590", Hogan was born in Kingston, Ontario.Hogan previously hosted a weekday morning sports radio show on the Fan 590 called The Mike Hogan Show (originally named The Bullpen) from 9 AM to 12 PM. Typically, the first hour was hosted solely by Hogan as he takes calls from listeners, while the last two hours was previously co-hosted by another guest sportscaster from TSN in the early 2000s, but later changed to a guest sportscaster from Rogers Sportsnet (due to the station being acquired by Rogers Communications) as they both discussed daily sports topics while also interviewing guests. During the later part of the 2000s, Mike Toth became the mainstay co-host of The Bullpen for the last two hours of the show. In late 2009, Toth was let go from the station, leaving Hogan as the sole host for the full 3 hours.During both the CFL and NFL seasons, the first hour on Fridays was co-hosted with former Argonaut and former NFL player Chris Schultz as a one-hour show dedicated to a weekly discussion on the CFL and/or NFL called "Football Friday". Inside the Argos was initially a regular segment of The Mike Hogan Show during the first hour on Wednesdays in the late 2000s until Hogan's show was cancelled. The show was co-hosted by former Argonaut defensive back Adrion Smith during 2007, and offensive lineman Sandy Annunziata during 2008 and 2009.During the CFL season, Hogan also served as the play-by-play voice for the Toronto Argonauts on The Fan 590's radio broadcasts (or webcasts from their website if the games conflicted with a Toronto Blue Jays radio broadcast) with former Argonauts linebacker Pete Martin as his colour analyst. Also during the season, Hogan hosted a one-hour show dedicated to a weekly discussion on the Argonauts featuring interviews of the team members called Inside the Argos. This program aired on the FAN 590 on a weekly basis during the midweek evenings.#mikehogan#torontoargonauts#communicationsmanager#livewithcdp#chrispomay#tsn1050#barrycullenchevrolet#wellingtonbrewery#greycupchampionshttps://www.argonauts.ca/https://beacons.ai/chrisdpomayhttps://www.cameo.com/chrispomayWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/54200596...

Mars-missioner, prøver fra Månens bagside, en rumstation, hele to store satellit-konstellationer og massevis af raketopsendelser. Det er bare nogle af de mange rumaktiviteter, Kina har gang i. I denne episode retter vi teleskopet mod Kina, fordi der sker så voldsomt mange spændende ting derovre i disse år, der også påvirker rumaktiviteterne i resten af verden. Men vi har trods alt talt med en dansk rumekspert i Kina – nemlig Thomas Schumann, der i flere år var vært på Radio4-podcasten Den Nye Rumalder, og som i dag har sin egen rumpodcast, Schumanns Rumraket. Thomas er især interesseret i Kinas Chang'e rummissioner, og det er også et af de områder hvor Kina mest direkte ligger i konkurrence med USA. Og der er næppe tvivl om at det nye store rumræs står mellem netop de to nationer. Hør meget mere om det, når vi taler med Thomas – og så er der selvfølgelig også korte rumnyheder, denne gang blandt andet om gigantiske rumobjekter, supernovaer og nye ESA-projekter. Lyt med

In this week's Beer Friday, host Dave welcomes beer expert Pat Strader to discuss exciting developments in West Virginia's craft beer scene. They celebrate Kerber's first anniversary and expansion plans, highlight Big Timber's unique Lager Joe—a Pilsner infused with cold brew coffee—and introduce Greenbrier Valley's Cherry Cordial Stout, a Valentine's Day special paired with decadent desserts. The segment also covers Short Story Brewing's return of Argonaut, a traditional Helles lager, and Brew Keepers' innovative Runkel Lager, a rye-based Dunkel variant. Listeners are invited to text in their craft beer questions, making for an engaging and informative session.

In todays episode we chat to the studio behind one of our favourite games from our childhood, Croc: Legend of the Gobbos. Join us as we talk with Argonaut Games founder Jez San OBE, Croc's Original Animator Jason Smith, and Mike Arkin, the man responsible for bringing Croc back to modern audiences on current-gen consoles We speak about the development of the original, the difficulties, the successes, how it finally evolved into an upcoming remake and how they're absolutely not working on a Croc 2 remake...

This week on The Retro Hour, we're joined by gaming legend Jez San OBE, the mastermind behind classics like StarGlider, the groundbreaking SuperFX chip, and the much-loved Croc: Legend of the Gobbos. From his early days coding on a TRS-80 to working with Nintendo on Star Fox, Jez shares his journey through the golden age of gaming. Hear how he reverse-engineered the Game Boy, created stunning 3D experiences, and built Argonaut into a pioneering powerhouse. Plus, exciting insights into the upcoming Croc remaster and the rebirth of Argonaut! Contents: 00:00 - The Week's Retro News Stories  44:27 - Allister Brimble Interview Please visit our amazing sponsors and help to support the show: Bitmap Books - https://www.bitmapbooks.com Take your business to the next level today and enjoy 3 months of Shopify for £1/month: https://shopify.co.uk/retrohour The Retro Hour Book: https://retrohour.myshopify.com/ We need your help to ensure the future of the podcast, if you'd like to help us with running costs, equipment and hosting, please consider supporting us on Patreon: https://theretrohour.com/support/ https://www.patreon.com/retrohour Get your Retro Hour merchandise: https://bit.ly/33OWBKd Join our Discord channel: https://discord.gg/GQw8qp8 Website: http://theretrohour.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theretrohour/ X: https://twitter.com/retrohouruk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retrohouruk/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/theretrohour.com Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/theretrohour Show notes The Spectrum outsells the Xbox: https://tinyurl.com/tu6bu6c3 Snes version of Batman Returns now on Mega Drive: https://tinyurl.com/nupwkx8x Secret hidden in Majora's Mask found: https://youtu.be/W1x6XnTaN28 New FPGA PS1: https://x.com/TakiUdon_/status/1877179623026397528 Soviet bots: https://youtu.be/GdLLPRsgsV8

“Capital goes where it's needed and stays where it's treated well. That's not the UK and that's not Europe: currently, it's the US and it's Argentina.” So says Barry Norris, chief executive of Argonaut Capital Partners, on this week's episode of Merryn Talks Money. The UK finance veteran decries Labour tax policies in the UK while pointing to opportunities in the Americas. He suggests good places to invest and shares his thoughts on Bitcoin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a big week in the cycling tech world with Strava dropping a bomb on many connected apps. To learn more about what this upcoming change could mean for you, Ray Maker, aka DCRainMaker, joins the pod.Following that chat, you'll hear from Suvi, Ronan, Dave, and Brad on various topics, ranging from Rouleur Live, a bunch of new bikes, and answering a couple of member questions. Plus, Dave shares something on his mind that then follows a different path.As usual, we encourage you to visit escapecollective.com to see and learn more about the products and themes discussed.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:00 - DCRainMaker joins to explain Strava's unexpected API changes21:30 - Rouleur Live highlights25:30 - Reap Type 300 gravel bike and rapid prototyping32:40 - On our mind: products shouldn't be annoying to use and an unexpected tangent into disc brake caliper piston service and Dave's tool testing43:30 - Bunch of new bikes, starting with the Mondraker Arid Carbon gravel bike46:30 - Argonaut's Supernaut48:00 - Colnago has a new steel bike, the Steelnovo52:25 - Pinarello's entry-level F1 road bike56:00 - DT Swiss partners on a dynamo hub and complete wheels59:50 - Ask a Wrench: Brake feel and air in Shimano brakes1:09:00 - Ask a Expert: Why compliance matters beyond the tyres

Erik Wetterling, Founder and Editor of The Hedgeless Horseman website, joins me to discuss three junior gold, silver, and zinc companies with recent news out to the market; where he is attracted to the current value proposition.   We start off discussing the exploration upside, prospective project, and recent drill results, at Silver47 Exploration Corp. (TSXV: AGA). Highlights from hole DC24-106 include 2.48 meters of 61.44% ZnEq or 2,938.5 g/t AgEq (14.95 g/t gold 249.50 g/t silver, 21.97% zinc, 7.03% lead, 0.42% copper).  While this was near known mineralization it is an impressive high-grade hit, and Erik is interested in seeing more follow-up drilling.   Next we reviewed Callinex Mines (TSXV: CNX) (OTCQX: CLLXF) ongoing fully funded 2024 exploration campaign at the 100% owned Pine Bay Project located within the Flin Flon Mining District of Manitoba.  This project is near infrastructure and the nearby Hudbay 777 mine and processing center that is currently sitting idle, and where this project may be a potential source of mill feed if an economic deposit can be delineated.   We wrap up discussing the news out last week on November 12th, i-80 Gold Corp (TSX: IAU) (NYSE American: IAUX) where in the process of reporting its operating and financial results, the Company announced it envisages a two-step recapitalization process which will include demonstrating a viable path to generating free cash flow, and rescheduling and/or refinancing the existing debt obligations. The company also declared that it is no longer proceeding with the Ruby Hill Base Metal Joint Venture, and considering the potential value of the existing gold resources in a rising gold price environment and taking into account the limited understanding of the base metal potential, it has elected to prioritize more advanced staged gold and silver projects with established resources and technical studies.    (IAU.TO) sold off from $1.32 down to $0.47 on this news on November 13th,  but has started to bounce back some this week.  We question whether the big miss in production guidance, the Base Metals JV being called off, the dilutive C$115million raised in May at much higher prices, and now this company restructuring are all too many red flags to recover.  Conversely we are curious to see how the new CEO Richard Young, famous for selling Teranga to Endeavor Mining, and recently Argonaut to Alamos Gold, is preparing to right-size and restructure the company, and if there is the potential their board may decide to sell of part or all of the company to a larger producer, where this could be a compelling opportunity to be positioning in the company.   * In full disclosure, the companies mentioned by Erik in this interview, are positions held in his personal portfolio, and also may be site sponsors of The Hedgeless Horseman website at the time of this recording.  Additionally, Shad holds a position in I-80 Gold at the time of this recording.   Click here to visit Erik's site – The Hedgeless Horseman

Mike Gingles, the new VP of Corporate Development at Heliostar Metals (TSX.V:HSTR - OTCQX:HSTXF - FRA: RGG1) joins me to discuss the fast evolution of the Company into a gold producer in Mexico.    I start by having Mike share his extensive 30-35 years of experience in the mining industry, working across various countries and sectors such as copper and gold mining. Mike then outlines Heliostar's swift transformation from an exploration company to a gold producer in Mexico, fueled by recent strategic acquisitions, including the high-grade Ana Paula Project and two producing mines from Argonaut. These acquisitions aim to enhance Heliostar's portfolio, stabilize cash flows, and support future developments.    Please email me at Fleck@kereport.com with any follow up questions for Mike or Charles.    Click here to visit the Heliostar Metals website to learn more about the Company.

For new parents and early years educators, there's a wealth of guidance and support for how to understand what's happening for our babies and toddlers, but when it comes to the stories we tell about adolescence, an equally important period of significant change, sometimes it's more just get your head down and get through it! As millions of young people make the big transition to Middle School, I was very curious to learn from one of the real experts, not only of the patterns of change and development at this time, but also of how to create educational environments that really take these young people seriously!  Chris Balme is an education leader, writer, and school founder, passionate about helping young people discover more of their human potential. He is the author of Finding the Magic in Middle School: Tapping Into the Power and Potential of the Middle School Years, which was published in 2022.  Chris currently serves as Founding Principal at Hakuba International School. He is also the Founder & Director of Argonaut, an online advisory program for middle schoolers around the world. Prior to this, Chris co-founded and served as Head of School at Millennium School, a highly successful lab school in San Francisco. Chris has received the Ashoka Fellowship as a leading changemaker in education, and regularly speaks, trains, and writes for parents and teachers around the world. For more, see Chris's newsletter, Growing Wiser. Social Links LinkedIn: @chris-balme - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbalme/ Instagram: @chrisbalme - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbalme/ 

Charles Funk, CEO of Heliostar Metals, walks us through the process ongoing to finalize the transaction of assets acquired through preivously announced deal of former Argonaut projects. He walks listeners through the debt facility in place and the internal preparations needed to be ready for day 1 production under the Heliostar tenure.

Show Notes On this week's podcast, Dan and Kris talk about the double feature of Nintendo Directs that happened earlier in the week. Everything announced at both the Indie Showcase and the Partner Showcase will be detailed, scrutinized, and celebrated! How excluded were the guys about the Castlevania Dominus Collection? How amazing does Capcom fighting Collection 2 look? What are Morsels? How tall is Pizza Tower? All will be revealed! At the top of the show, it was Dean's birthday! He decided to spend it talking to Dan and Kris about a weird rash on his hands. Apparently he's allergic to certain Xbox controllers. Dan continued to deal with his cancer treatments, and got a big ol' surprise from some of our listeners. (You know who you are!) And Kris got to spend some time with the upcoming Atari game Yars Rising, entered the world of online newspaper scans, tried to fix his dryer, and wrestled a basketball hoop. Finally, in Week Old News, Concord is unsurprisingly having a hard finding an audience. Apparently trying to ape Guardians of the Galaxy and Overwatch 5 years too late is a bad way to spend millions of dollars. Who knew? Plus, Activision continues to be the worst after it's discovered they canceled a Crash/Spyro crossover game because Crash 4 didn't sell a trillion copies, Argonaut is back with a fresh remaster of Croc, Sonic 3 gets a Keanu-filled trailer, and more. Enjoy! What's New at Stone Age Gamer Hyperkin Hall Effect Joystick Module for Nintendo 64 LASERS! Useful Links Support us on Patreon StoneAgeGamer.com The Gratuitous Rainbow Spectrum Safe at Home Rescue Shoot the Moon Stitches Art of Angela SAG's theme Song “Squared Roots” by Banjo Guy Ollie Social Stuff Join us on Discord! Stone Age Gamer YouTube Twitch Geekade Facebook Stone Age Gamer Facebook Geekade Twitter Stone Age Gamer Twitter Geekade Instagram Stone Age Gamer Instagram YouTube Geekade Contact Us Break Music Mega Man Xtreme - Opening Stage Bubble Bobble - Main Theme Croc: Legend of the Gobbos - Volcano Island Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow - Dracula's Tears

Nintendo and Sega financials dissapoint Sony gets ready for NextGen Venture money goes ga-ga over silliwood These stories and many more on this episode of the VGNRTM! This episode we will look back at the biggest stories in and around the video game industry in May 1994.  As always, we'll mostly be using magazine cover dates, and those are of course always a bit behind the actual events. Alex Smith of They Create Worlds is our cohost.  Check out his podcast here: https://www.theycreateworlds.com/ and order his book here: https://www.theycreateworlds.com/book or get it in the Humble Bundle here: https://www.humblebundle.com/books/game-programming-taylor-francis-books Get us on your mobile device: Android:  https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly92aWRlb2dhbWVuZXdzcm9vbXRpbWVtYWNoaW5lLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz iOS:      https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/video-game-newsroom-time-machine And if you like what we are doing here at the podcast, don't forget to like us on your podcasting app of choice, YouTube, and/or support us on patreon! https://www.patreon.com/VGNRTM Send comments on Mastodon @videogamenewsroomtimemachine@oldbytes.space Or twitter @videogamenewsr2 Or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vgnrtm Or videogamenewsroomtimemachine@gmail.com Links: If you don't see all the links, find them here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/110575391 7 Minutes in Heaven: Rebel Assault (SegaCD) Video Version:  https://www.patreon.com/posts/7-minutes-in-may-110535204     https://www.mobygames.com/game/272/star-wars-rebel-assault/     https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars:_Rebel_Assault Corrections: April 1994 Ep - https://www.patreon.com/posts/april-1994-107563816 Ethan's fine site The History of How We Play: https://thehistoryofhowweplay.wordpress.com/      1994-05: Console market in a slump     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 18 Panasonic tries to save 3DO     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 16     https://x.com/blakejharrisNYC/status/1168364212139307008 Nintendo loosens minimum cart order rules in Japan     "Nintendo easing iron grip on programmers Video-Game Giant Halves Minimum Cartridge Order, The Nikkei Weekly (Japan), May 2, 1994, Section: INDUSTRY; Pg. 8 Nintendo stock keeps dropping     Nintendo shares no fun in 1994 - Emiko Terazono on reaction to the gamemaker's revised forecasts, Financial Times (London,England), May 6, 1994, Friday, London; Section: World Stock Markets; Pg. 39, Byline: By EMIKO TERAZONO Nintendo is a top earner     TOYOTA RETURNS AS NO.1 INCOME EARNER IN JAPAN, Jiji Press Ticker Service, MAY 18, 1994, WEDNESDAY,Dateline: TOKYO, MAY 18 Sega profits plunge     Sega Enterprises reports 22.7% pretax profit fall, Japan Economic Newswire, MAY 19, 1994, THURSDAY Sony Computer Entertainment of America formed     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/19/business/company-news-sony-starts-a-division-to-sell-game-machines.html?searchResultPosition=1 3DO shares collapse     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/21/business/company-news-shares-of-3do-fall-by-another-18.html Nintendo profits plunge... more     Nintendo suffers first profit decline in 10 years,Japan Economic Newswire,MAY 23, 1994, MONDAY     Nintendo reports solid earnings despite strong yen; outlines exciting new software plans for 1994, Business Wire, May 23, 1994, Monday THQ sales collapse     T-HQ announces first-quarter results, Business Wire, May 11, 1994, Wednesday     Absolute Entertainment reports first quarter results, Business Wire, May 10, 1994, Tuesday EA/Broderbund merger collapses     No Headline In Original, Consumer Electronics, May 9, 1994, Section: NOTEBOOK, Vol. 34, No. 19     https://archive.org/details/Electronic-Games-1994-05/page/n21/mode/1up?view=theater     https://www.smoliva.com/2024/08/07/what-the-learning-company-taught-us-about-the-history-of-computer-software/ Davidson & Associates buys Chaos Studios     https://archive.org/details/Electronic-Games-1994-05/page/n17/mode/1up?view=theater      Fox Interactive launches     Twentieth Century Fox establishes new interactive multimedia division; new division to utilize News Corp. resources, Business Wire, May 20, 1994, Friday Fall of Park Place profiled     https://archive.org/details/Electronic-Games-1994-05/page/n9/mode/1up?view=theater Forbes profiles Id     Profits from the underground, Forbes, May 9, 1994,Section: COMPUTERS/COMMUNICATIONS INTERACTIVE MEDIA; Parameters; Commentary; Pg. 176, Byline: BY ANDREW J. KESSLER      AOU lacks premieres     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 8 Saturn to become an arcade Titan     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 7       https://segaretro.org/Sega_Titan_Video        Play Meter, May 1994, pg. 16         https://segaretro.org/Batman_Forever_(arcade) Namco consolidates     Play Meter, May 1994, pg. 12 Atari links up with Bally     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 13 Virtuality goes to Japan     British high-tech game maker to enter Japan, Japan Economic Newswire, MAY 6, 1994, FRIDAY     Https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wakayama_Marina_City#Minor_attractions     Play Meter May 1994, pg. 251 Sony delivers devtools     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 13 Sega disses Jupiter for Mars     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 6 DMA signs up with Nintendo     Nintendo and U.K.-based DMA design announce Project Reality agreement; 64-bit home games to debut in fall 1995, Business Wire, May 2, 1994, Monday Nintendo smashes myths     https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_058_May_1994/page/n31/mode/1up?view=theater Howard Lincoln to deliver CES keynote     Playthings May 1994, pg. 22 Laseractive drops price     Pelican Brief,' Pakula Classics Due From Warner, Billboard, May 7, 1994, Section: HOME VIDEO; Laser Scans; Pg. 96, Byline: by Chris McGowan         https://youtu.be/qSdfj5O-N1Q?si=Wx7ZJ_Yvc6MafKSK NEC taps out of 3D race     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 14 NEC gives PC Engine another lease on life     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 15 Sigma Designs to bring Jaguar to PC     Sigma To Make Atari Jaguar Titles Run On PC, Newsbytes, May 3, 1994, Tuesday Reinventing the Z-Machine is apparently Rocket Science     Platform battle, Forbes, May 9, 1994, Section: COMPUTERS/COMMUNICATIONS INTERACTIVE MEDIA; Pg. 168, Byline: By Nikhil Hutheesing Silliwood gold rush continues...     Sillywood, Forbes, May 9, 1994, Section: MANAGEMENT/CORPORATE STRATEGIES; Pg. 46, Byline: By Lisa Gubernick and Nikhil Hutheesing     Rocket Science takes off with funding from Sega Enterprises and Bertelsmann Music Group; 10-month-old start up attracts major corporate investors, Business Wire, May 18, 1994, Wednesday Penn & Teller sign up with Absolute     PENN & TELLER, THOSE 'BAD BOYS OF MAGIC,' MAKE THEIR VIDEO GAME DEBUT WITH ABSOLUTE ENTERTAINMENT, Business Wire, May 19, 1994, Thursday      CD-i gets John Cleese     No Headline In Original, Consumer Electronics, May 2, 1994, Section: NOTEBOOK; Vol. 34, No. 18; Pg. 13      Argonaut working on 3D accelerator     Edge 8, May 1994 pg. 19     https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARC_(processor) Sirius introduces 5 ft. 10 pack     CD-ROM publishers unite-users benefit; introductory 5 ft. 10 Pak. flies from shelves, Business Wire, May 3, 1994, Tuesday       https://worldroms.com/5-ft-10-pak-volume-1-details.html Commodore advertises CD32.. in the US?         https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_058_May_1994/page/n10/mode/1up?view=theater Commodore developing RISC CPU     https://archive.org/details/amiga-computing-magazine-073/page/n33/mode/2up      Commodore shows off CD drive at Cebit     Amiga Format 59, pg. 24 C64S launches     https://archive.org/details/64er_1994_05/page/n35/mode/1up         https://www.c64-wiki.de/wiki/C64s CPC emulation comes to PC     Amstrad Action 104, pg. 8        https://cpc-emu.org/news.html Sega Channel to launch in Japan     Sega to provide to provide videogames on cable TV, Report From Japan, May 3, 1994,Section: Business Silicon Graphics founder teams up with Mosaic devs     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/07/business/new-venture-in-cyberspace-by-silicon-graphics-founder.html?searchResultPosition=8 Lexis Nexis to get SEC filings     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/11/business/company-news-agreement-to-utilize-sec-data.html?searchResultPosition=18 Computer biz to dominate Akihabara     Akihabara shifting to 'computer town' amid recession, Japan Economic Newswire, MAY 4, 1994, WEDNESDAY, Byline: Hisa Miyatake Rewritable carts coming to Blockbuster     Sega and NewLeaf to test video game software delivery system that eliminates retailer stock-outs, Business Wire, May 31, 1994, Tuesday        https://segaretro.org/Game_Factory Copying goes legit in the UK with EDOS     https://commodore.software/downloads?task=download.send&id=15005:commodore-format-issue-44&catid=721   pg. 22          https://blog.amigaguru.com/edos-the-software-on-demand-of-the-80s/        http://amigaguru.com/Games/EDOS_MAGAZINE_1991-1992__ENGLISH.pdf         https://www.computinghistory.org.uk/det/63955/EDOS/     https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/SC121687/filing-history?page=1      Psytronik keeps the C64 alive     https://commodore.software/downloads?task=download.send&id=15005:commodore-format-issue-44&catid=721  pg. 8        https://www.psytronik.net/ Lieberman picks IDSA over SPA     SENATORS WARN ON GAME RATINGS, Consumer Electronics, May 9, 1994, Section: THIS WEEK'S NEWS, Vol. 34, No. 19 Alpex faces off against Nintendo in court     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/16/business/patents-108332.html?searchResultPosition=30     https://itlaw.fandom.com/wiki/Alpex_Computer_v._Nintendo Japanese Copyright change scuttled     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/19/business/japan-likely-to-retain-curb-on-software-raiding.html?searchResultPosition=33      Jean-Claude Van Damme to headline Street Fighter movie     https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_058_May_1994/page/n171/mode/1up?view=theater Multimedia-centric horror film captures Zeitgeist     https://www.nytimes.com/1994/05/01/movies/film-taking-the-children-like-your-mom-said-beware-sweet-serial-ads-931985.html?searchResultPosition=4 Virgin to release Music compilation CD      Billboard previews music's digital future     In The Brave New Technological World, Music Uses And Publishing Possibilities Seem Endless, Billboard, May 7, 1994, Section: MUSIC PUBLISHING; Spotlight; Pg. 76, Byline: BY MARILYN A. GILLEN Green Jelly wants to ooze all over multimedia     Green Jelly's Land Of Ooz: Zoo Act Opens Vid Facility, Billboard,May 21, 1994,Section: Pg. 1,Byline: BY DEBORAH RUSSELL   Recommended Links: The History of How We Play: https://thehistoryofhowweplay.wordpress.com/ Gaming Alexandria: https://www.gamingalexandria.com/wp/ They Create Worlds: https://tcwpodcast.podbean.com/ Digital Antiquarian: https://www.filfre.net/ The Arcade Blogger: https://arcadeblogger.com/ Retro Asylum: http://retroasylum.com/category/all-posts/ Retro Game Squad: http://retrogamesquad.libsyn.com/ Playthrough Podcast: https://playthroughpod.com/ Retromags.com: https://www.retromags.com/ Games That Weren't - https://www.gamesthatwerent.com/ Sound Effects by Ethan Johnson of History of How We Play. Copyright Karl Kuras 30 years ago: #Nintendo and #Sega financials disappoint, #Sony gets ready for NextGen & Venture money goes ga-ga over #Silliwood These stories and many more on the VGNRTM! https://www.patreon.com/posts/110575391

The Sound Chaser Progressive Rock Podcast is on the air. The show this time is another mix tape of old and new, known and obscure. Variety is the secret word. Playlist1. Siddhartha - Black, from Trip to Innerself2. Gayle Moran - Always a Wanderer, from I Loved You Then ... I Love You Now3. Peter Hammill - A Perfect Date, from Skin4. Mark O'Connor - Opus 31: Hear the Sunshadows Dance, from Stone from Which the Arch Was Made5. Donald Fagen - Springtime, from Kamakiriad6. Jean-Luc Ponty - Open Mind, from Open Mind7. Weather Report - Hot Cargo, from Sportin' Life8. Gnidrolog - In Spite of Harry's Toe-Nail, from In Spite of Harry's Toe-Nail9. Moving Gelatine Plates - Moving Theme, from The World of Genius Hans10. Guru Guru - The Girl from Hirschhorn, from Dance of the FlamesTHE SYMPHONIC ZONE11. Kansas - Journey from Mariabronn, from Two for the Show12. Ange - Bilboquet, from Rêves – Parties13. Ange - Le Rêve est à Rêver, from Rêves – Parties14. Big Big Train - Voyager, from Empire15. Aragon - The Changeling, from The Meeting16. Antony Kalugins Kinematics Orchestra - Kinematography, from AKKO 117. Antony Kalugins Kinematics Orchestra - In the Wake of Argonaut, from AKKO 118. Fleesh - Firth of Fifth, from Here It Comes AgainLEAVING THE SYMPHONIC ZONE19. Jasun Martz - Battle 1, from The Pillory / The Battle20. Steve Roach - Rapt in Moonlight, from Painting in the Dark21. Robert Rich - Never Alone, from Electric Ladder22. Mike Oldfield - Top of the Morning, from Tubular Bells III23. Mike Oldfield - Moonwatch, from Tubular Bells III24. Michael Bierylo - Island X, from Cloud Chorus25. Trey Gunn - The Night Air, from One Thousand Years26. Jane Siberry - Lena Is a White Table, from The Walking

The Black CatIn 4 parts, by RachaelJane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Chapter 16: An evening with PauloOf course I should have realized that there is an ulterior motive to his request. But I'm a willing participant to his brilliant scheme, even if technically I'm the victim. The lively dance music is sensuous and our bodies are almost constantly in contact. I'm not sure if it the desire building inside me or the strenuous activity that is making my clothes stick to me. Our bodies are glistening with sweat and the effect is driving me wild.As the dance progresses our bodies seem to come into contact more and more until we are moving like a single being. When the music ends I don't want to part. But the dancing is only the first stage of Paulo's seduction."We need a shower," he says, taking my hand and escorting me from the room. I don't make any effort to resist, even though I know he means for us to share a shower. In fact, far from resist I feel a tremor of desire at the prospect.I'm neither mistaken nor disappointed in Paulo's plan. I've never showered with another person before, let alone a virile young man whose motives are as plain as day. I follow his lead and we undress each other. That act alone arouses me even more. Then we enter the cubicle and Paulo sets the buttons to start the water. I don't know if these showers are programmed to cater for a shower for two, but everything about it is wonderful.When Paulo starts soaping me I practically explode with desire as his hands work their dastardly deed. He kisses me and knows he has me where he wants me. Or so he thinks. I'm still in control of some of my emotions and manage to achieve the same sort of response from him as my hands work on his body. It's a challenge both of us do our best to win. His hands work wonders between my legs, while I soon have his cock eager for more of my attentions. Who can be first to push the other into an orgasm? I've the advantage of my gender and can hide an orgasm. But for Paulo, the evidence of my claimed victory is obvious, whereas I secretly know Paulo won in reality.The shower program ends after about fifteen minutes. We are definitely clean and no trace remains of the effects from our dancing or from our water games. For the moment our lust is sated. But not for long. Neither of us bother to dress and I know full well what awaits me beyond the door opposite the one we entered."Ready?" asks Paulo."Yes, I'm ready," I reply, taking the opportunity to kiss him.Paulo lifts me up and carries me into the suite's bedroom. We have nearly four hours before the sensible part of my mind is needed again. Chloe is due to return at 2am and I need to be back in my dormitory by then if I want to avoid a confrontation. Given her actions last night, I'm not going to give her another opportunity to sabotage my chances in the Argonaut. However, between now and then I intend to explore all the opportunities this night presents. I was a shy and inexperienced maiden when I arrived yesterday. I shall not be leaving in the same state.To describe the next four hours as sensational or wonderful barely does justice to the emotions Paulo drew from me. Or to the emotions I clearly drew from him. I lost count of the number of times we fucked, each time in a different position. Had circumstances been different I'm sure we would have a longer term relationship. Perhaps one involving genuine love for each other. But we both know that isn't likely to be.Sensible Jasmine rejoins me with twenty minutes to spare before my imposed deadline. I'm glad Paulo doesn't resist my move to leave. If he held me back I'm certain I would risk Chloe's wrath for another half hour with Paulo. I've no idea what she has been up to with Sarah tonight, and to be honest, I don't care. But Chloe left me in no doubt she that intends to eliminate me from the Argonaut given the slightest opportunity. An impression neither Paulo nor Cassius have done anything to dispel.With a final kiss and a sorrowful farewell, I enter the elevator with the most wonderful memories of tonight.Despite it being after 2 o'clock in the morning, I find Harper standing in the corridor outside our dormitory when I arrive. He's remarkably sober for this time of night, but he practically falls over in surprise when he sees me."What are you doing here?" says Harper, as he recovers from his shock."This is my quarters," I reply, slightly annoyed he is questioning me like this."That's not what I mean. If you are out here, then who is the girl with Patrick in our dormitory?"I'd forgotten about Sheba. She and Patrick must have hit it off alright if she is still here."Um; It's probably Sheba," I reply to Harper's question. "I met her earlier tonight and introduced her to Patrick. They must have discovered they have a lot in common.""And who is Sheba?”"She's the daughter of some Argon bigwig. She was heading for the party on the top floor when I realized Patrick might be the sort of company she was really wanting.""Hmmm; I suspect there's more to this than you are telling me," adds Harper. "But well done on finding Patrick a potential benefactor. I don't suppose you rustled up a benefactor for yourself in the process?""Ah! Yes, I do believe I have," I reply, remembering I put Sarah's business card in my pocket. "Her name is Sarah. She said she wanted to me to contact her if I'm a winner of the Argonaut."Harper looks at Sarah's card; the one which contains nothing but a picture of a black cat. He suddenly goes very serious."And just how did you meet this Sarah of yours, sweetheart? You weren't supposed to leave the building tonight. The employees of Le Chat Noir don't do house calls."

Heliostar Metals is acquiring 4 projects in Mexico formerly with Argonaut Gold. G2 Gold is financing while AngloGold Ashanti increases their stake int he company. Collective Mining will trade on the NYSE American. Liberty Gold has commenced a 20,000m drill program in Idaho. This episode of Mining Stock Daily is brought to you by...  Arizona Sonoran Copper Company (ASCU:TSX) is focused on developing its brownfield copper project on private land in Arizona. The Cactus Mine Project is located less than an hour's drive from the Phoenix International airport. Grid power and the Union Pacific Rail line situated at the base of the Cactus Project main road. With permitted water access, a streamlined permitting framework and infrastructure already in place, ASCU's Cactus Mine Project is a lower risk copper development project in the infrastructure-rich heartland of Arizona.For more information, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.arizonasonoran.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Fireweed Metals is advancing 3 different projects within the Yukon and Northwest Territories, including the flagship Macmillan Pass Project, a large zinc-lead-silver deposit and the Mactung Project, one of the largest and highest-grade tungsten deposits in the world. Fireweed plans to advance these projects through exploration, resource definition, metallurgy, engineering, economic studies and collaboration with indigenous people on the path to production. For more information please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fireweedmetals.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Vizsla Silver is focused on becoming one of the world's largest single-asset silver producers through the exploration and development of the 100% owned Panuco-Copala silver-gold district in Sinaloa, Mexico. The company consolidated this historic district in 2019 and has now completed over 325,000 meters of drilling. The company has the world's largest, undeveloped high-grade silver resource. Learn more at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://vizslasilvercorp.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we add to our series on Beyond Good and Evil with Michel Ancel. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 00:49 Interview 1:05:23 Interlude  1:05:56 Outro  Issues covered: a one-main game, making a game by himself, being fascinated by computer graphics, not being able to save the first work, a tool for creation, ecological development, UbiSoft's magazine for recruitment, meeting with the big boss, working as an external developer, making a first playable of Rayman, developing an internal team, a big early team, going all in around Rayman, developing internal tools, a female lead, a story-based adventure game trying to be holistic, a difficult and ambitious project, figuring out what to cut and what to keep, defining moments, creating a whole world, not knowing where the boundaries are, wanting to surprise people, cutting the open world/multiple cities, doing everything in the tools they made with a very small team, huge capabilities of the tool, the 100% complete mini-game, coming up with characters and story, telling the story while you play, having a strong vision for the game, integration of levels with cinematic storytelling and camera placement, coming up with the formula, reusing the techniques, the origin of the title, Jade's unexplained traumatic history, enemies doing what they have to to survive, consequences for those close to you, a commitment to internal tech, laying out the development pillars. Games, people, and influences mentioned or discussed: Rayman, Rabbids, King Kong, Ubisoft, The Intruder, Shigeru Miyamoto, Atari, Brain Blasters/The Teller, Pixar, TRON, Yves Guillemot, Jaguar, PlayStation, Michel Guillemot, 3DStudio MAX, Legend of Zelda, Elite, Starflight, Argonaut, Starfox, Jacques Exertier, Resident Evil, Metal Gear Solid 2, Unreal, Valiant Hearts, Sega Saturn, Nintendo Wii, Fred Markus, Kirk Hamilton, Aaron Evers, Mark Garcia Next time: Mailbag! Twitch: timlongojr, Twitter/Threads/Insta: @devgameclub Discord DevGameClub@gmail.com

GXP Capital, LLC v. Argonaut Manufacturing Services, Inc.

Tip, tip, tip on hardwood floors...

Please do not be alarmed, remain calm...

I'll wait for the love you seek and more...

I thought training season was over...?

More M&A news today between Alamos Gold and Argonaut Gold. Vizsla Silver updates the market on its Royalties spin-out. Western Copper and Gold has new drill results out from met test work. Magna Mining signs an off-take agreement with Vale. We'd like to thank our sponsors: Arizona Sonoran Copper Company (ASCU:TSX) is focused on developing its brownfield copper project on private land in Arizona, a tier 1 location. The Cactus Mine Project is located less than an hour's drive from the Phoenix International airport via highway i-10, and with grid power and the Union Pacific Rail line situated at the base of the Cactus Project main road. With permitted water access, a streamlined permitting framework and infrastructure already in place, ASCU's Cactus Mine Project is a lower risk copper development project in the infrastructure-rich heartland of Arizona.For more information, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.arizonasonoran.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Fireweed Metals is advancing 3 different projects within the Yukon and Northwest Territories, including the flagship Macmillan Pass Project, a large zinc-lead-silver deposit and the Mactung Project, one of the largest and highest-grade tungsten deposits in the world. Fireweed plans to advance these projects through exploration, resource definition, metallurgy, engineering, economic studies and collaboration with indigenous people on the path to production. For more information please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fireweedmetals.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Vizsla Silver is focused on becoming one of the world's largest single-asset silver producers through the exploration and development of the 100% owned Panuco-Copala silver-gold district in Sinaloa, Mexico. The company consolidated this historic district in 2019 and has now completed over 325,000 meters of drilling. The company has the world's largest, undeveloped high-grade silver resource. Learn more at⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://vizslasilvercorp.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Victoria Gold operates the Eagle Gold Mine within the Dublin Gulch Property. Eagle is the largest gold mine in Yukon's long history of gold production. In addition to the long-life Eagle Gold Mine, the Dublin Gulch property has upsized exploration potential including priority targets Raven and Lynx among others. Follow all the gold production and exploration news at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠vgcx.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Recorded Live at POOF DOOF Melbourne 23/03/2401 Chaney feat. FARLEY - Feeling For You (Original Mix)02 MGMT - Kids (Super Disco Club Rework)03 YOGA ft. Jimi TK - Interstellar (Argonaut x Purple Disco Machine Mash)04 The Chemical Brothers - Go (De Soffer Remix)05 Jolyon Petch - Insomnia (Elektrik Disko Remix)06 Dom Dolla - Saving Up (Original Mix)07 James Alexandr ft. Nada-Leigh - Look At Me (Extended Mix)08 Shygirl & Kingdom - f@k€ (Extended)09 Mr Belt & Wezol - It's Not Right (But It's Ok) (Extended)10 Gabry Ponte & DAMANTE - Turn Me On (Extended Mix)11 PNAU - Nostalgia (Original Mix)12 Beyoncé - Heated (Argonaut x Dave Winnel Mash Up)13 Matt Sassari & Matthew Dear - Our Lovely City (Hands Up For Detroit) (Extended)14 Mason & Princess Superstar - Perfect (David Guetta Remix)15 Masters At Work x Sidney Samson & Blando - Work x Riverside (Adam b Edit) 16 Charli XCX - Von Dutch (Fragile Future & Argonaut vs Bodyrox & Rogerson Mashup)17 Kim Petras - Treat Me Like A Slut (Pam Sessions Remix)18 Dizzee Rascal - Bonkers (GRENNO Remix)19 Dua Lipa - Houdini (David S x Swatkat x DJ Accia Mash Up) 20 Troye Sivan - Got Me Started (Bag Raiders Remix)21 Tim Deluxe - Just Wont Do (Airwolf Paradise Edit)22 Torren Foot & Associanu - Sleep When I'm Dead (Extended Mix)23 Beyoncé - Texas Hold 'Em (Country Club Martini Crew Remix)24 Diplo & HUGEL - Stay High (Extended)25 Steve Angello - ME (Extended Mix)

The Black CatIn 4 parts, by RachaelJane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Chapter 16: An evening with PauloOf course I should have realized that there is an ulterior motive to his request. But I’m a willing participant to his brilliant scheme, even if technically I’m the victim. The lively dance music is sensuous and our bodies are almost constantly in contact. I’m not sure if it the desire building inside me or the strenuous activity that is making my clothes stick to me. Our bodies are glistening with sweat and the effect is driving me wild.As the dance progresses our bodies seem to come into contact more and more until we are moving like a single being. When the music ends I don’t want to part. But the dancing is only the first stage of Paulo’s seduction.“We need a shower,” he says, taking my hand and escorting me from the room. I don’t make any effort to resist, even though I know he means for us to share a shower. In fact, far from resist I feel a tremor of desire at the prospect.I’m neither mistaken nor disappointed in Paulo’s plan. I’ve never showered with another person before, let alone a virile young man whose motives are as plain as day. I follow his lead and we undress each other. That act alone arouses me even more. Then we enter the cubicle and Paulo sets the buttons to start the water. I don’t know if these showers are programmed to cater for a shower for two, but everything about it is wonderful.When Paulo starts soaping me I practically explode with desire as his hands work their dastardly deed. He kisses me and knows he has me where he wants me. Or so he thinks. I’m still in control of some of my emotions and manage to achieve the same sort of response from him as my hands work on his body. It’s a challenge both of us do our best to win. His hands work wonders between my legs, while I soon have his cock eager for more of my attentions. Who can be first to push the other into an orgasm? I’ve the advantage of my gender and can hide an orgasm. But for Paulo, the evidence of my claimed victory is obvious, whereas I secretly know Paulo won in reality.The shower program ends after about fifteen minutes. We are definitely clean and no trace remains of the effects from our dancing or from our water games. For the moment our lust is sated. But not for long. Neither of us bother to dress and I know full well what awaits me beyond the door opposite the one we entered.“Ready?” asks Paulo.“Yes, I’m ready,” I reply, taking the opportunity to kiss him.Paulo lifts me up and carries me into the suite’s bedroom. We have nearly four hours before the sensible part of my mind is needed again. Chloe is due to return at 2am and I need to be back in my dormitory by then if I want to avoid a confrontation. Given her actions last night, I’m not going to give her another opportunity to sabotage my chances in the Argonaut. However, between now and then I intend to explore all the opportunities this night presents. I was a shy and inexperienced maiden when I arrived yesterday. I shall not be leaving in the same state.To describe the next four hours as sensational or wonderful barely does justice to the emotions Paulo drew from me. Or to the emotions I clearly drew from him. I lost count of the number of times we fucked, each time in a different position. Had circumstances been different I’m sure we would have a longer term relationship. Perhaps one involving genuine love for each other. But we both know that isn’t likely to be.Sensible Jasmine rejoins me with twenty minutes to spare before my imposed deadline. I’m glad Paulo doesn’t resist my move to leave. If he held me back I’m certain I would risk Chloe’s wrath for another half hour with Paulo. I’ve no idea what she has been up to with Sarah tonight, and to be honest, I don’t care. But Chloe left me in no doubt she that intends to eliminate me from the Argonaut given the slightest opportunity. An impression neither Paulo nor Cassius have done anything to dispel.With a final kiss and a sorrowful farewell, I enter the elevator with the most wonderful memories of tonight.Despite it being after 2 o'clock in the morning, I find Harper standing in the corridor outside our dormitory when I arrive. He’s remarkably sober for this time of night, but he practically falls over in surprise when he sees me.“What are you doing here?” says Harper, as he recovers from his shock.“This is my quarters,” I reply, slightly annoyed he is questioning me like this.“That’s not what I mean. If you are out here, then who is the girl with Patrick in our dormitory?”I’d forgotten about Sheba. She and Patrick must have hit it off alright if she is still here.“Um; It’s probably Sheba,” I reply to Harper’s question. “I met her earlier tonight and introduced her to Patrick. They must have discovered they have a lot in common.”“And who is Sheba?”"She’s the daughter of some Argon bigwig. She was heading for the party on the top floor when I realized Patrick might be the sort of company she was really wanting.”“Hmmm; I suspect there’s more to this than you are telling me,” adds Harper. “But well done on finding Patrick a potential benefactor. I don’t suppose you rustled up a benefactor for yourself in the process?”“Ah! Yes, I do believe I have,” I reply, remembering I put Sarah’s business card in my pocket. “Her name is Sarah. She said she wanted to me to contact her if I’m a winner of the Argonaut.”Harper looks at Sarah’s card; the one which contains nothing but a picture of a black cat. He suddenly goes very serious.“And just how did you meet this Sarah of yours, sweetheart? You weren’t supposed to leave the building tonight. The employees of Le Chat Noir don’t do house calls.”“I didn’t leave this building. Sarah isn’t an employee, she’s one of the owners of Le Chat Noir. She was here on business earlier this evening. We got talking and she said she wanted to talk to me afterwards. Is that going to be a problem? What is Le Chat Noir anyway? And how do you know about it?”“Never mind how I know about Le Chat Noir, and you’re too young to understand what sort of business it conducts.”“OK, keep your secrets. Anyway, I had a good time tonight, and now I feel ready for bed. Where are the others if Patrick and Sheba are alone in the dormitory?”They’ve having a slumber party of their own downstairs. I suggest you go and join them if you plan on sleeping tonight.I take a quick shower in the communal bathroom, mainly to soothe some of the many tender spots around my body. Several parts of me received more exercise and attention tonight; than they’ve ever received before. What started out as a gentle tumble in bed progressively increased in tempo until Paulo and I were being quite rough with each other in our lovemaking. I probably discovered as much about myself as I did about Paulo. My only regret is it has left me wanting to repeat the whole encounter again and again, and I know that is likely to be impossible. The warm glow I was feeling when I left Paulo returns by the time I find my room-mates in the downstairs lounge, and my head hits my makeshift pillow. Sleep quickly follows.Chapter 17: The ArgonautI join an equally sleepy Patrick for breakfast at eight o'clock. He’s in a much happier mood than yesterday. I try to think of the right way to apologize for practically throwing Sheba into his bed last night, but Patrick speaks before I can say anything.“Thank you for what you did last night,” he says. “I don’t know how you managed it but Sheba was just the person I needed. And if Sheba was being truthful, I was the person she needed.”“Um; That’s OK,” I reply. “Sorry if I practically threw her at you, but I was late for the; er; party upstairs.”“Hmm! Sheba mentioned she was going to a party before she met you. But it didn’t sound like the sort of party I thought you would be interested in. Sheba made it sound like it was all scantily clad girls competing for Paulo’s favor. Perhaps the rumor about Paulo and some dark-haired beauty dancing naked in a roof garden are true after all?” he laughs.“Where did you hear that rumor?” I ask. “I’m sure it’s greatly exaggerated.”“Some of the contestants were talking while we were waiting in the studio yesterday. You must have heard them; Oh. No; Of course; You arrived a bit later. Wait a minute. Harper let slip there are rumors circulating about Paulo and a girl who fits your description. Are you the girl referred to in that rumor? Is the rumor true?”“Of course the rumor is wrong; We weren’t dancing,” I reply keeping my tone light. “That came much later. But I admit I’m the girl in the rumor. Are there are other rumors about me? It’s very difficult to get some privacy here with all the security cameras everywhere.”“You don’t need to apologize to me. I only wish I had half your courage to defy convention and take what you need.”Patrick and I are back to being pleasant to each other and able to talk without any awkwardness. I just hope he and I don’t have to compete against each other today. While there can be multiple winners of the Argonaut, some challenges involve head-to-head tests in which one of two contestants is eliminated from the Argonaut.At nine-thirty, forty-six of the fifty original contestants are standing in the huge hall that will be the main testing center for today’s Argonaut challenges. Apparently four contestants have already been eliminated. Despite plenty of rumors, nobody seems to know the reason, and the Argonaut officials are saying nothing on the subject. I can’t help wondering whether sabotage had a part to play in the contestants’ elimination.The Argonaut officials are easily recognized by their bright purple gowns. The woman in charge has lots of gold trim on her gown, as if to reinforce her status here. Even the other officials seem nervous about being near her.“By the end of the day, at least twenty more of you will have been eliminated,” she announces to us all. “For the first challenge, you will be divided into seven groups. When your name is called, go and stand under the colored banner of your group over there.”Another official reads out everyone’s names in group order. I’m in Green group, along with Patrick, Chloe, Mansel, and two other contestants I don’t know. Paulo is placed in Yellow group, and Vincent in Blue. Once we are all assembled in our allocated group, an official marches each group off to a different room.“Last night you have each been approached by citizen of Argon city, and received a card from them. The card indicates that the citizen is willing to provide you with employment in the city, should the Argonaut assessment panel be willing to loan you the money that you need to buy your freedom. Now, place the card on the table in front of you.”Fortunately I’ve kept Sarah’s card in my pocket, heeding her advice that it may prove useful. Is this what she meant when she said that? I notice Chloe has a similar card, although the black cat on her card is lying on its back, while mine looks as though it is stalking a mouse. I presume Sheba was the source of Patrick’s card. The official studies each card and checks it against something written on his notepad. A grunt is the only indication that everything seems to be in order. He tells us to retrieve our cards.“Your next decision will be critical to your success or otherwise in the Argonaut,” says the official. “You must now decide whether to accept your sponsor’s offer of employment. If you haven’t discussed the employment terms and wish to discuss them with your sponsor before accepting, then you should decline the current offer. I will now ask you in turn whether you accept or decline the offer.”Patrick, Chloe and I are the only three of us who accept the employment offer. In my case, it is a rash decision based on a few minutes of conversation with Sarah last night. I could be agreeing to something I will soon regret, but I’m more terrified of being eliminated from the Argonaut than accepting an unknown job. The three of us are escorted to yet another room and told to wait.We wait. And we wait some more. Finally Ellen and Cassius turn up.“Good. That’s all sorted,” says Ellen, handing each of us an envelope. “Read those later. You must go to your dormitories and pack your things. Meet by the front door in forty five minutes.”“What’s going on?” asks Patrick. “Have we been eliminated from the Argonaut?”“No. No. On the contrary. You have all been granted a loan and a work permit for the city. You will be transported to your new employer’s place of business. He or she will sort out everything else. It’s all explained in the letter I’ve just given you.”It takes me a few moments to remember to breathe. In my wildest dreams I never imagined winning the Argonaut would be so quick and easy. I had mentally prepared myself for a day of tests and challenges, and an anxious wait tomorrow for the final result.Packing my few belongings takes all of five minutes. I had already returned the Jewels of Desire to Ellen first thing this morning. With over half-an-hour to spare, I sit down to read my letter. Ellen has covered all the salient details in her answer to Patrick’s question. My indenture to the Buchanan overlord has been purchased by the Bureau of Ancillary Services for just under eight thousand credits, which I must repay from my earnings over the next five years. Failure to repay the loan by the deadline means my indenture will be sold to any Argon citizen willing to buy it, and I will once again be a serf. I’m to be employed as a hostess at The Black Cat Club, working five days a week. The letter doesn’t contain any further details about the job or what in entails. With the letter is a laminated work permit confirming I am authorized to work in the city center and travel to and from Buchanan settlement.Patrick and I join Chloe by the front door as instructed. There’s no sign of Ellen or Cassius, and I realize that we might be taken from here without the opportunity to say goodbye to anyone. A small bus arrives a short while later and the driver tells us to get on board. Ellen and Cassius appear at the last moment and wave us off as we drive away.The bus has only a short journey before we arrive outside an odd-shaped office building surrounded by a jumble of similar sized buildings. Patrick disembarks after sharing a brief farewell and good wishes. He suggests that we keep in touch. I say ‘yes’, although I’m not sure how achievable that will be.We have a slightly longer drive into the heart of the city center before the bus stops outside a building in what is clearly part of an entertainment district. The bus departs as soon as Chloe and I step onto the wide footpath. From the street, The Black Cat Club looks very unimpressive. The ground-floor doorway consists of a wide metal frame housing twin white doors, each with a black cat motif on the upper panel. There are no door handles nor any doorbell to attract attention.“Did you come here last night?” I ask Chloe, risking a hostile reply.“I don’t know,” replies Chloe. “I was made to wear a hood for most of the journey. If it’s the same place then I’ll recognize it once we are inside.”Which, of course, is the problem. How do we get inside?Chapter 18: Arrival at The Black CatThe area is quiet at this hour of the morning and there is no sign of activity at the club. Gaining access to the club is going to be a problem we need to solve on our own. I study the door and the surrounding frame. On door frame, either side of the doors, are two dark square pads with a motif of a cat on them. The one on the right has a stalking cat, like on the card Sarah gave me. The left hand pad has a cat lying on its back, similar to the one on the card in Chloe’s possession.Chloe tries pushing the pad in case it is a doorbell of sorts. The pad is solid so there is no audible or visible response. We wait a few moments in case what Chloe has done has summoned someone inside. However, nobody comes to the door, so I consider trying something else. I bring out my card and place it over the pad with the matching cat symbol. Success! The door on the right makes an audible sound as though a lock is being released. I push on the door and it swings open. Inside is short but wide hallway with a row of turnstiles left and right of a central column. The turnstiles are controlled by the same sort of pad we saw on the outside door. Those to the right of the column ahead of us have a symbol that matches my card, while those on the left match Chloe’s card.We each pass through one of the turnstiles matching our respective card. Once through to the other side, we find ourselves separated by a wall. I’m now in a different corridor to the one Chloe entered, and I’m unsure how we can meet up again without reversing our route. There’s still nobody about and I’m beginning to worry about my rash choice to accept Sarah’s offer without further details.“Are you still there, Chloe?” I call.“Yeah. There’s a staircase going down to a lower level. I’m fairly sure this is where I was brought last night.”“There’s no staircase on my side,” I reply. The corridor here seems to go past a cloakroom into a large room at the end.“"Well, let’s explore our own area and see if we can find someone,” replies Chloe.I quickly check that the cloakroom is empty before entering the large room at the end. It’s a night club, with a huge dance floor bordered by several rows of tables and chairs on two sides; a stage on the third side; and a bar next to where I have entered on the fourth side. On the other side of the bar to the entrance door is an archway, hopefully leading to an office, or somewhere that someone will be working.I eventually find an office where a woman about my age is working. She doesn’t seem surprised to see me and introduces herself as Honeydew.“The Bureau sent me your details but I haven’t had time to record them in our system,” says Honeydew. “If you take a seat in the lounge over there, I’ll do that now.”“Okay,” I reply. “I arrived with another woman; Chloe. The card she was given sent her through the left hand turnstiles when we arrived.”“She will be looked after downstairs,” replies Honeydew. “Don’t concern yourself about her.”Honeydew’s attitude towards Chloe strikes me as odd, but I accept her assurance that Chloe will be looked after. Since Chloe isn’t a friend, I put her out of my mind for now. After about fifteen minutes, Honeydew joins me in the lounge. She hands me some documents and a card similar to the one Sarah gave me last night. This card, however, is laminated like my work permit, and has a copy of the photograph I supplied for the Argonaut on the reverse. At her request, I hand over the card Sarah gave me.“The identity card allows you access to the club,” says Honeydew. “You’ve already discovered how it works. The documents are your terms of employment and your scheduled work hours for the next two weeks. A fifth of your earnings will be paid directly to the Bureau of Ancillary Services to repay your loan. Let me know if you ever want to make an additional payment. If you have any questions then come and talk to me.”“What should I do now?” I ask.“The club opens in just over an hour. Sarah will arrive just before then. I suggest you take a walk around the club and get an idea where everything is located.”I do as Honeydew suggests although there isn’t much more on this level than I’ve already found. The gender neutral toilets, and a set changing rooms are the only rooms I haven’t explored when I entered the club. There’s a locked door next to the bar, near to the one I entered. As seems typical of the club, the lock is controlled by the proximity of my identity card. Rather than wander around aimlessly, I try opening the door.The door opens onto a short corridor in front of two sets of stairs leading to the floors above and below. I take a quick look upstairs first. The landing at the top leads to what turns out to be a set of bedrooms, fitted out for some adventurous sex games. I then go basement level to see if I can locate Chloe. After my experiences over the last twenty four hours I’m not surprised to see the basement is fitted out like some medieval dungeon. There’s a dance floor and bar looking incongruous with the cages and restraints liberally scattered around the place. Every square pillar supporting the building above has four sets of shackles dangling down from above. That’s where I find Chloe, chained by her wrists to one of the pillars.“Are you okay?” I ask Chloe when I see her chained with her arms raised high above her head. She can only stand on her tiptoes.“Yes, Miss Jasmine,” replies Chloe, indicating with her eyes that one of the many security cameras is watching us. “Mistress is fetching my uniform. I’ll be fine.”I quickly overcome my shock at Chloe addressing me in the way she did, but I suppose she knew from last night how she would be treated here. Even with that knowledge, Chloe accepted the offer to work here without further inquiry. I’m not sure what more I can say to her, so I simply nod in acknowledgement of her signal, and continue my exploration of the dungeon. My experience with kinky sex is negligible, and I can’t pretend to understand the purpose of some of the equipment around the room. I find it fascinating, but also a little scary.“You must be Jasmine,” says a woman dressed in a black studded leather outfit. “I’m Caitlin.”I turn to look at the woman who has just entered from the door on the other side of the bar. Her blond hair his fastened in a plait which is pinned around her head. If I had to guess at her age, I would say that she was in her mid-thirties, but it difficult to be sure in the subdued lighting of the dungeon.“Yes, hello,” I reply. “Honeydew suggested that I explore the club while I’m waiting for Sarah to arrive.”“That’s no problem. But if you are waiting for Sarah, then I suggest you return upstairs. Sarah arrived a few minutes ago.”I promptly do as Caitlin suggests. I find Sarah in the office talking to Honeydew.“Ah! Jasmine! Excellent! I wasn’t sure if you would understand my offer, and I had half expected you to be standing out on the street wondering how to get into the club. I’m pleased you understood on both counts. Welcome to Le Chat Noir. We can discuss your duties while I find you an appropriate uniform to wear.”Sarah concludes her business with Honeydew and then she escorts me to one of the changing rooms I had noticed earlier.“These are the changing rooms. Rooms one to four are for visiting artists, five and six are for staff use. It can get crowded in here at busy times, so I recommend that you change into and out of your uniform at home. Honeydew will allocate one of these lockers for your belongings.”Sarah proceeds to describe my duties. Although my job title is given as 'hostess’ my duties include almost every task that could be expected of someone working in a night club, particularly one catering for clients with exotic sexual perversions. My base salary is no more than I was earning at the recycling factory in Buchanan, but with the added costs of my loan repayment, and travel to and from work. However, Sarah indicates some of the many ways I can voluntarily supplement my earnings at the club.Although I don’t start work until tomorrow, I spend the next couple of hours observing the club in action and meeting some of the other staff.Chapter 19: A session with IrisBy the start of my third week working at Le Chat Noir, I’ve reorganized by life to suit my variable hours of work. I’ve also decided; at least for now; which extra services I am willing to provide at the club in order to supplement my earnings. Tips from serving drinks at tables provide a small but steady boost to my income. But until I pay off the loan the Bureau of Ancillary Services provided to buy my freedom, I need to earn more. Prostitution is tolerated by the club, but that’s something I’m uncomfortable with doing. However, more subtle or specialized sexual services are something I could manage, particularly when it comes to helping out in the dungeon downstairs. Even Caitlin and Sarah seem impressed with the ease that I’ve adapted to being a part-time dominatrix. I confess that I like the leather gear I’m given to go with the role.When I’m not needed as a dominatrix in the dungeon, I put on a much skimpier outfit and work the floor in the main club. My outfit is inspired by the Jewels of Desire, with small semi-precious gemstones sewn into the glorified bra and panties that I normally to wear. The effect from wearing either of my regular costumes gives me a warm and pleasant feeling I associate with sexual arousal. However, I refuse all offers of sex despite my traitorous body wanting to comply.“Hello, princess,” comes a familiar voice as I pass one of the tables on a busy night.“Paulo! I didn’t know if I would see you again.”“Hmm. Like everyone else, I was shocked when you disappeared from the Argonaut. We all assumed you had been eliminated. It’s only when I met Chloe last week that I discovered what happened.”“I was lucky to find a sponsor and job that suits me,” I reply. “How about you?”“I was one of the nine Argonaut winners in addition to Patrick, Chloe and you. That’s a fairly typical success rate for the Argonaut these days. I’ve got a job with a building maintenance company; nice regular hours although the pay isn’t that great. I presume your job means you must work nights?”“Yes. The club doesn’t open until mid-afternoon, and stays open until the early hours of the morning. I’m normally working from six o'clock in the evening until the club closes around three or four the next morning.”“That must make it difficult for you to get home after work,” observes Paulo.“There are several of us in the same situation. We’re allowed to sleep on one of the beds upstairs until the first train services start in the morning. As long as my travel card shows me travelling to and from Buchanan every day then I satisfy the city’s rules about residency.”“I had hoped we could resume where we left off during the Argonaut,” says Paulo. “But our different work hours are going to make that difficult.”“I’m sure we can work something out,” I reply, although I’ve no idea how we might achieve it. “Anyway, how did you get in here tonight? Are you a member of Le Chat Noir?”“Chloe managed to get me a guest pass for tonight. The pass doesn’t seem to allow me access to downstairs.”“Only members of Le Chat Noir can enter the dungeon,” I reply.“Is that where Chloe works?” asks Paulo. “She was very evasive when I asked her. What does she do down there?”“Chloe works downstairs, but you’ll need to ask her about her duties. That’s not the sort of detail I can provide.”I’m being equally evasive as Chloe about her duties. Paulo might not understand Chloe’s submissiveness and react in a way that could cause problems.“I need to resume my work, Paulo. It’s been great catching up. If you can find a way for us to meet up outside of work, then I’m okay with resuming where we left off before.”My departure from Paulo’s company is a bit abrupt, but Sarah is trying to attract my attention from across the room. I promptly go over to where she is standing.“Caitlin needs your services as a dominatrix downstairs,” says Sarah. “Go and change into your leathers and report to Caitlin. And Jasmine; play your cards right tonight and Caitlin’s client could prove to be a very profitable source of extra income for you. But remember what I told you the first time we met about knowing when to keep your mouth shut about what you see.”“Yes, thank you, Sarah. I’ll go and change at once.”I quickly change and take the back stairs down to the dungeon level. Caitlin is helping out at the bar. The dungeon crowd is smaller than upstairs, but it is still fairly busy. Caitlin comes over to me and takes me into one of the side rooms.Although I am still new to playing the role of a dominatrix, Caitlin seems pleased with my efforts so far. I’ll admit that the role eases my pent up anger at the inequality in Argon society. And the extra money it earns me is welcome, and encourages me to develop my skills further.What I told Paulo wasn’t entirely true. Access to the Black Cat’s dungeon is restricted to the club’s premium members, and even staff access is limited to a select few. Quite how I was designated as one of the few was a mystery to me at first. Eventually Sarah admitted to her involvement in that decision after she saw how I handled wearing the Jewels of Desire during the Argonaut. This will be the tenth session I’ve run as a dominatrix. Two of my clients have returned for a second session, although it’s too early in my career to call them regulars.Caitlin takes me to one side and hands me some extra items to complement my outfit. A leather paddle and handcuffs are placed in a black leather bag along with a few lengths of rope. My rope tying skills are still work-in-progress, but I can handle a few basic restraints. My outfit is finished off with a black leather mask covering much of my face.“I don’t anticipate any problems, but we had best keep your identity secret until we are sure there aren’t going to be any repercussions,” says Caitlin.Before I can baulk at the implied danger, Caitlin ushers me into an area of the dungeon I normally avoid. This is the zone contains small private dungeons, and is reserved for the seriously perverted bondage freaks. Or at least, that’s how Chloe described clients who hire the facilities in this area. When I see it up close, I suspect Chloe’s description is slightly biased, but then, she and I are literally on opposite ends of the whip.The scantily clad female is waiting for me in one of the private dungeons. I am already mentally prepared to meet one of Argon’s rich elite wanting to play at being a helpless submissive for an hour or two. I don’t suppose it occurs to them that they could live and work in one of the settlements and achieve the same result at no cost.“This is Slave Iris,” says Caitlin by way of introduction. “She is yours to command, Domina.”Some clients prefer to call me by a name, whether my own or a made-up one. Others, like now, prefer to call me by a title such as Madame, Mistress, or an older style title like Domina. Caitlin leaves us alone, which is my cue to begin.“Kneel before me Slave,” I command, beginning a standard routine to establish the boundaries of this game. Iris obeys at once.By the time I have completed the initial routine I am satisfied that I understand what turns Iris on, and what commands I should avoid. If I want to maximize my earnings with repeat sessions, I must endeavor to provide the experience Iris desires. My preliminary assessment suggests that she is naturally submissive, and she is clearly wanting a session in which she is bound helpless and punished for whatever misdemeanor she wishes to confess. Even the prospect of being spanked with the paddle seems to turn her on.Despite Iris’s willingness to be subjected to harsh treatment, I’m careful not to inflict any tell-tale marks on Iris’s body. I recognize Iris from the numerous news-feeds featuring the higher echelons of Argon society. Caitlin’s warning was justified. No matter how willing Iris may be to the discipline I’m imposing, I’m well aware that her father is one of the generals of Argon’s ruling junta. How amenable he will be to me satisfying his daughter’s fetish is a big unknown.I’m starting to attune myself to Iris’s likes and dislikes. I don’t know what motivates her fetish for bondage, which makes it harder for me to deliver the right intensity of control. I have handcuffed her to a ring high in the wall so that she must stand with her arms raised. I complete her bonds with ankle cuffs anchored to rings in the floor which hold her legs slightly apart. On impulse I run my hand between Iris’s legs and stroke her lacy panties. It’s a tentative touch to test her reaction, which is everything I hoped it might be. She starts humping my hand, which I allow her to do for a few moments until I sense she is working up to a climax. I withdraw my hand before she can peak.I repeat the exercise numerous times and eventually I allow her to climax. She practically weeps with joy once her orgasm subsides. I tease her with the paddle and before long she is whimpering for my touch. The sense of empowerment it gives me is arousing me as much as the visible effect our games are having on Iris. I even have Iris satisfy my own needs by tonguing my cunt until I achieve an orgasm.It is customary for the client to indicate when the session is to end by saying the standard club safe-word 'Kitty-cat’. Iris doesn’t seem to be in any hurry to end the session, which runs for a mammoth three hours. Eventually she is too exhausted to continue and she brings our session to an end. By now it is well past midnight and both of us are tired.“Thank you, Domina,” says Iris, once I have freed her from her latest bondage. “Are you free for another session tomorrow night?”“My availability is managed by the club’s owners,” I respond with the answer Caitlin requires me to give to such a request.“Then we shall speak with Caitlin,” replies Iris, no longer the submissive slave she was ten minutes ago.We return to the main part of the dungeon, which still has a reasonable number of patrons despite the late hour. Caitlin is still working at the bar and has no hesitation in agreeing to Iris’s request for my services tomorrow night.When I finally finish work at three o'clock in the morning I get the chance to open the envelope containing my bonus for tonight. It’s more than I thought possible, and it reinforces my desire to train further in the art of being a dominatrix. However, I know I mustn’t get over-confident since the sessions with Iris could end at any time, and secrecy about her identity is essential.I consider the next step in my strange and unexpected career. Navigating the Argonaut was easier than I expected, but that owed a lot to chance and making risky choices. I made it, though. Now all I need to do is survive in the murky world of Argon’s powerful elite. But that’s another story.By Rachael Jane for Literotica.

Paulo's SeductionIn 4 parts, by RachaelJane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.By the time Ellen and I join them, nearly all the contestants are in the dining area and are already eating at the table. Ellen and I go over to the side table where the buffet is laid out, and we select some food. Patrick looks at me as I sit down opposite him, but he doesn’t say anything. After Vincent’s revelation earlier about Patrick’s feelings towards me, I’m not certain what to say to Patrick.“Were there many contestants in the practice rooms this morning?” I ask Patrick, more to make him to talk to me than any real interest in the movements of the other contestants.“Um; No. I was alone for most of the time. Paulo joined me for a while, but a woman called him away. When he returned he looked like a cat who had fallen into a bowl of cream.”I immediately realize the importance of what Patrick is saying about Paulo, but it is Ellen who quizzes Patrick for more details. By the time he’s done, I have no doubt that Sylvie was the woman Patrick saw, and Paulo was summoned to gather information from me while I was in Effie’s room. A very slick operation, but one which may still end in my favor.When we arrived in the Argonaut complex yesterday, Patrick and I gobbled our food down in case it disappeared before our hunger was satisfied. Both of us come from poor families where meals can be irregular. Today we eat at a more leisurely pace. We would have time for a pleasant conversation if Patrick showed any inclination to talk. He simply eats in silence, although his eyes rarely leave me. After a while his gawking starts to annoy me. I’m about to say something rude when Ellen puts her hand on my arm.“Perhaps if you stopped rubbing your breasts, Patrick wouldn’t stare at them so, Jasmine,” whispers Ellen in my ear.I drop my hands in a flash and suddenly feel awkward. The tenderness hasn’t quite worn off, and I must have been trying to sooth my breasts without thinking about what I was doing. From Patrick’s reaction he must have heard Ellen’s words and I don’t know which of us is the more embarrassed.“Er; Sorry, Patrick,” I say. “Ellen and I were trying on some jewelry and one of the pieces is quite heavy. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”“Um; that’s OK. I didn’t mean to stare. That’s a nice ring, by the way.”I suddenly realize I’ve left the emerald ring on my finger. In my haste to get changed I forgot to take it off and return it to Ellen. Fortunately Ellen doesn’t seem to mind.“Yes, it’s an emerald,” I reply. “Ellen has been kind enough to let me borrow it for the television show this afternoon.”“Well you will look a very fine lady when you walk up onto the stage,” says Patrick.“Actually, I’m not going for the fine lady look. I think the warrior princess style is more appropriate for me. What do you think?”“I don’t know,” replies Patrick. “Harper said that sponsors might be put off from helping us if they think that you are.”“That will do, Patrick,” says Harper, who is sat further down the table, but listening to our conversation. “Once we have finished lunch, Jasmine and I will have our discussion about how she should handle herself during the show.”Harper’s interruption stifles any further conversation, and we finish lunch in silence. After lunch, Patrick and Ellen leave on different missions. I’m left alone with Harper.“So,” I begin. “Are you going to tell me what you told Patrick?”“No,” replies Harper. “I told Patrick what he needs to know and believe. Which isn’t necessarily the same thing that you need to know and believe. You and Patrick are very different people when it comes to handling interviews. Patrick has a natural gift that makes people instantly like him. You, on the other hand, have a knack of annoying and confusing people. I know you confuse me. You scowl at people you should please, and flash your eyelids at people you should avoid. Tell me how you think you should portray yourself this afternoon.”“I thought your role is to tell me,” I reply. “I’ve no idea. I know I hate trying to read from a script.”“Which is why I don’t think anything we rehearse here is going to help you. You are at your best when you are being spontaneous. My only advice to you is to remember that you need to attract potential employers; and you must.”Harper lists a dozen or so pieces of advice, most which I forget as soon as he has said them.“Now what?” I ask when Harper has finished his speech.“You have an hour before you need to get changed for this afternoon’s charade,” says Harper. “Why don’t you go for a walk.”Chapter 12: SabotageI return from my walk a few minutes late to find Harper, Ellen, Patrick, Vincent, and two other of my room-mates in the middle of what I can only describe as a crisis meeting. At first I think the crisis is somehow my fault.“I told you where I was going,” I say before anyone can accuse me of doing a disappearing act.“Yes, we know,” says Harper. “Ellen wanted to fetch you, but we thought we had better come up with a solution before we told you. But you’re here now anyway.”“So what’s the problem?” I ask, relieved that for once that I’m not the cause of the crisis.“It appears a maintenance man called while we were having lunch to fix a problem with your wardrobe door,” says Vincent.“But there’s nothing wrong with my wardrobe door,” I say, assuming they mean the well-worn, but still functional, cupboard I’ve been assigned to store my things.“So what happened?” I ask.“Sabotage!” says Ellen. “The maintenance man tampered with your dress for tonight.”I look at Harper for an explanation.“A chemical has been sprayed onto your dress,” says Harper. “We’re having it analyzed. It is likely an irritant or mild poison. Nothing that would be noticeable to anyone picking up your dress, but powerful enough to cause the wearer a few problems after a short while. It was lucky I was suspicious when the security staff told me about the visitor.”“Can the chemical be removed?” asks Ellen.“Probably, once we identify it. But that would take too long. We have less than an hour before Jasmine must go across to the studio.”“I’ll fetch some of my dresses,” says Ellen. “Perhaps one might fit Jasmine with only minimal alterations.”While I appreciate Ellen’s offer of help, her taste in clothes is very different from mine. I’d rather wear my own dress; the one I was wearing when I arrived here. But that would be only as a last resort. I decide to take matters into my own hands.“Ellen, thank you for your offer of help,” I say. “This is what I would like you to bring.”I give Ellen a short list of things I know she has in her room. If she thinks my request strange, she has the decency to refrain from voicing her opinion aloud. She doesn’t hesitate and goes off to her room to fetch what I requested. I turn to the other contestants in my dormitory.“Thank you all for your help, but I can manage with Harper and Ellen’s assistance from here,” I say. “You had best go and get ready yourself. Most of you are in the batches of contestants before mine, so you probably need to go soon.”The others seem relieved and nod in agreement. They have wasted precious time dealing with a problem that shouldn’t have involved them in the first place. By the time Ellen returns, my room-mates have changed their clothes and left for the studio. My dress is still on the hanger where I left it. A slight stain on the wardrobe wall around it could be residue from the chemical spray.“That stain is what alerted me to the problem,” says Harper. “We’ve checked around for other unwelcome additions. The maintenance man was only here for a few minutes, so he won’t have had time to do much. I think it is likely he was sent specifically to sabotage your dress for tonight. Once we’ve identified the chemical I’ll have the rest of your clothes and bedding checked.”“So I can’t even wear my own dress?” I say.“Not until it is checked, no. I’m sorry, we’ve let you down. I should have known to have a backup set of clothes for you. I’m new to these dirty games too.”I explain my plan to Harper, who listens carefully. He goes thoughtful for a while before going into the corridor to make a telephone call. Ellen returns laden with the items I requested just as Harper completes his call.The next half-hour is a whirlwind of activity inside the dormitory. To my surprise neither Harper nor Ellen oppose my decision to take personal responsibility for my costume tonight. Their comments are helpful and supportive as my costume takes shape. A few additions thanks to Harper’s telephone call help to perfect my outfit. By the time my make-up is applied I really feel on fire. I complete my preparations by sliding the emerald ring onto my finger. A new wave of confidence sweeps through me. I had previously complained of being a marionette in tonight’s show, dancing to other people’s tunes. No more; now I really feel in control.Ellen places a large cape over my shoulders which completely hides my costume. A deliberate ruse devised by Harper to foil the paymasters of the saboteur. If they believe I’m wearing the studio dress, then it’s unlikely they will attempt any other act against me. It also allows me the element of surprise when I finally reveal my costume.“Are you wearing those shoes?” asks Ellen, pointing to the training shoes I’ve been wearing all afternoon. Apart from the cape, it is the only part of my clothing that is visible.“Only for now,” I reply. The shoes that matched the outfit are quarantined with the dress.Harper escorts me to the studio. Ellen left a few minutes before us. They aren’t allowed backstage, so they’ll will be watching from their seats in the audience. The show has already begun. Each batch of five contestants spends about five minutes being paraded around the stage, at which point the audience vote for one of them to be interviewed. The chosen contestant is then interviewed for about five minutes, before rejoining the others on a platform at the rear of the stage.While I was changing, Ellen told me about the nature and scale of the underhand tricks that are tolerated by the Argonaut’s officials. The guiding rule is that unless a contestant shows unexplained signs of physical injury, or is unable to stand unaided, the officials won’t undertake any serious investigation into any skullduggery. Providing that unwritten rule is observed, any amount of doping and intimidation is tolerated, and no investigation will be conducted into claims of sabotage. Had the saboteur of my dress succeeded in his mission, then his paymaster would have been secretly congratulated for a masterful stroke. The poor victim is such cases is left to rue their misfortune.I join the other four contestants in the eighth batch at the studio, and we are soon escorted into a large room where the ten contestants from the preceding two batches are waiting to be called onto the stage. Most are simply standing about nervously. A few are making last minute alterations to their costume. Everything is done under the watchful eye of two of the television studio crew.On one side of the room is a large screen displaying the show being broadcast from this building. The overbearing hosts, led by Darrian, are amusing the audience with anecdotes and recollections from previous Argonauts. In between segments, a batch of five contestants are brought out and paraded around the large stage, before standing on a raised platform at the rear of the stage.I’m busy watching the screen, so I don’t notice Patrick approaching me until he is virtually on top of me.“I just wanted to wish you good luck tonight, Jasmine,” says Patrick.“You too, Patrick,” I reply.It’s the only opportunity that I get to say anything to Patrick before his group is called onto the stage. I study each contestant’s costume as they make their final preparations, focusing mainly on the women. Most of their outfits are colorful evening dresses. That means they will be hoping to impress the same employers; the ones who like to hire young women who look sweet and pretty. A couple women in their mid-twenties are a bit more daring in showing their cleavage. They may impress a different segment of the audience, although I’m sure that segment will have more than its fair share of perverts.As for me, I’ve no idea which employers I might attract. Will the audience admire my hastily designed costume, or will I be laughed at and mocked? To be honest, I don’t care. My real goal tonight is to wrong-foot my powerful rivals. My imaginary warrior princess who is guiding me tells me I’m doing the right thing.Chapter 13: A special treatI have nearly twenty minutes to wait before it is my group’s turn on stage. Since none of the contestants in the room are being very talkative, I focus on watching the show on the huge screen. It also enables me to avoid talking to Chloe, who is in the last batch of contestants. I adjust my opinion of some of the contestants as they take their turn in the spotlight.Finally my group is called onto the stage. I wait until the last minute before removing my cape, and make the final adjustments to my costume. I may not be wearing Ellen’s great-aunt Sophie’s costume exactly as she once wore it, but it is close enough for my younger and inexperienced body. Ellen said this would be the first time in thirty years that the Jewels of Desire have been worn, and I’m determined to do the costume justice. Thanks to Harper’s tasteful additions, the costume is now suitable to be worn in public. I’m not showing as much bare flesh as the original costume left displayed. While near-nudity isn’t frowned on by the upper echelons of the city, it most certainly is at home. My modified costume is decent by my home settlement’s standards, but only just.Chloe’s exclamation as I reveal my costume confirms that I will certainly attract plenty of attention tonight. What the audience won’t get to see is the hidden secret of the Jewels of Desire. The design of the costume has one obvious purpose; sexual desire. The wearer uses her costume to titillate and excite the observer. What isn’t immediately apparent to an observer is that the costume is also designed to arouse the wearer. The strangely shaped piece that fits over my cunt, rubs against my clit in a very sensual way. Of course I could adjust the piece to prevent it from arousing me, but having decided to wear the Jewels of Desire, I fully intend to do so properly, within acceptable bounds. Besides, it will help me quell my nerves during the interview, should I be selected.I remove my shoes and take a few practice walks about the room. The initial discomfort is soon replaced by a more pleasant feeling. Within moments I feel every bit the part that I look; an extremely desirable young woman. I don’t care if some of the audience think me worse than a whore. This costume transforms me and I like the rebel it makes me.“; thank you Patrick and to group seven,” says Darrian as he concludes his interview with Patrick, who has rejoined the group preceding mine on the raised platforms. “And now ladies and gentlemen I’ve just received word that we are all in for a special treat. I’m informed that the next group contains a contestant wearing a most unusual costume. Let’s show our appreciation as group eight take to the stage.”As I step out from the wings and onto the stage, the polite applause given to every contestant suddenly erupts into gasps, cheers and thunderous applause. The audience is going wild by the time I reach half way across the stage. For once the hosts are torn between savoring the sight of me and calming the audience. The effect on me is almost as powerful as the emotional trip Paulo took me on last night. If it is possible to have an orgasm while walking about on a stage, then I think I just had one.The audience loves my demonstration, unaware my movements are stimulating me as well. By the time the audience is called on to vote, I’m in a highly charged sexual state. I stand still so as not to tip my already sensitive body into another orgasm. I don’t know how many of the audience are watching me, but I feel as though hundreds of eyes are watching my every move. The idea of being watched only excites me even more. Perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised that my costume has earned me an on-screen interview. The other four contestants in my batch look relieved that they have avoided being picked. They will still be interviewed, but in the peace and quiet of a private room, later this evening.“Well, what a sight for sore eyes you are, Jasmine my dear,” says Darrian once the audience has calmed enough to make conversation possible. “What an exquisite costume. You have certainly excelled yourself.”“I’m glad you like it,” I reply to the compliments each of the show’s hosts have heaped on my costume. “The costume isn’t entirely original, and most pieces have a history. The larger two pieces once belonged to a famous dancer, and are known as the Jewels of Desire. The emerald ring is said to have once been the property of a warrior princess.”“Fascinating,” says Darrian, as his eyes roam every part of my body.In fairness to Darrian, he is very professional and manages to ask his questions despite the delectable eye candy within touching distance of his chair. Of course, being a good showman, he has me conclude my interview by asking me to parade my costume once more for the audience to admire. I do so with a daring I didn’t think I had in me. The rubies on my costume catch the spotlights and sparkle. At the moment I feel like I’m on fire.Half an hour later the tenth and final on-screen interview with Chloe concludes, and after a brief wrap-up by the hosts, the show ends. A thoughtful member of the studio crew has my cape and shoes waiting for me as the contestants file off the stage. All the contestants’ helpers are waiting to bustle us away before any more foul-play can occur in the confusion. Paulo makes a point of coming over to me before he is whisked away.“Well done, princess,” he says as he slips a note into my hand. “And I like the costume.”“Thanks. You didn’t do so bad yourself, professor,” I reply, keeping up our private game.Vincent keeps watch over me while the rest of our dormitory are gathered together. There are crowds everywhere and it would be easy to get waylaid. After my performance on stage, I’m just as much at risk from over-enthusiastic admirers as potential saboteurs. We make it back to the dormitory without incident. While we were at the studio, Harper has had my bed and belongings checked for any other traces of the chemical that was on my dress. It turns out the chemical was a skin irritant that would have left me scratching my way through the show. After a quick debriefing and congratulations all round, Patrick and I are left in peace. The others are given ten minutes to freshen up before being escorted downstairs for their interviews. Those of us who were interviewed on-screen have the rest of the night free. I read Paulo’s note, which is an invitation to a party starting in just over an hour.I take one last look in the mirror at myself wearing the Jewels of Desire. They are mine for tonight, and despite my exhaustion I’m reluctant to take them off. Ellen will collect them in the morning before all the contestants begin the first of a series of tests and challenges that make up the Argonaut event. I put on some light music and I gently dance to the rhythm. On impulse I adjust the pieces of my costume so the pieces play their diabolical, but wonderful, tricks to my senses. After a while I am contemplating joining Paulo’s party. My common sense battles with my slutty urges.Chapter 14: Invitation to a partyI’ve only ten minutes to change for the party if I want to make an impression on the city-born guests who will be attending. Fortunately I showered and washed my hair straight after the television show. Changing clothes isn’t going to take long. I’m tempted to wear the Jewels of Desire, but I owe it to Ellen to keep the jewels safe until I can return them in the morning. That’s not something I can guarantee at a party, particularly one organized by Paulo. I’m not sure how he has managed to organize the invitations to include several of those in tonight’s studio audience. The Argonaut event is surrounded by festivities and celebrations among Argon’s elite. I can only assume Paulo has somehow persuaded a group to attend his party. Half a dozen or more, all female, from what Harper tells me, although Harper isn’t the most reliable source of gossip.I ask Patrick if he wishes to come, but he declines. I’ve already established that he and Paulo don’t get on. I think Patrick was hoping that he and I would keep each other company tonight. If he were to come out and ask me to stay I might consider doing so, but I’m not putting up with his ‘secret admirer’ routine. Nevertheless, I feel a twinge of guilt for leaving a fellow Buchanan contestant alone tonight.Paulo’s invitation gives me enough information to plan my attire from the limited wardrobe available to me. As Paulo said at the outset, clothing is almost optional. I begin to wonder if this is going to be a party or an orgy. To be honest, I’m more than a little nervous about how I am going to cope. I want to be with Paulo, but the prospect of sharing his attentions with other women doesn’t sit comfortably with me.I present myself at the room set aside for the party guests to assemble. The guests arrive singly. The first is a young woman a year or so older than me with long blond hair. She has the superior look of someone from the Argon’s ruling elite, although her clothes are relatively plain. She makes no effort to greet me and she sits on the opposite side of the room. The second, third and fourth women are equally aloof.The people of Argon’s city center place great importance on their looks. Despite their arrogant attitude, these young women are hardly the pick of the crop. Perhaps that’s why they are here rather than at some swanky party elsewhere. I have no idea what drives these people to do what they do.A fifth woman arrives. Unlike the others she clearly doesn’t want to be here. I walk over to her.“Hi, I’m Jasmine,” I say. “Is everything alright? You don’t look happy to be here.”“Um; Hi; I’m Sheba; Bathsheba actually, but only my parents ever use my real name. And no; I don’t want to be here. But my parents said I must prostitute myself with a contestant tonight or they would marry me off to my slime ball of a third cousin.”“They told you to prostitute yourself?” I say in genuine shock.“Um; not in so many words, but that was their meaning. They know how I loathe my third cousin. He’s been trying to get his paws on me since I was twelve.”“Did your parents specify any particular contestant?” I ask.“No. Male or female. They don’t care. If I can seduce a contestant into working for my parents, I get another six months grace to find a husband. But with six of us here tonight I don’t stand much of a chance. I hear the contestant hosting this party is an arrogant peacock.”“Yes, that sounds like Paulo. Perhaps I can help you. I know one of the other contestants. He would probably appreciate some feminine company tonight.”I almost laugh out loud when she leaps at my offer. I quickly bustle her out of the room and up to the dormitory. I just hope Patrick accepts the opportunity on offer. Patrick is alone in the dormitory so I practically throw Sheba at him. What happens next is up to the two of them. That’s all the pandering I intend to do tonight.I bolt downstairs before I miss the arrival of the final guest. The other women don’t seem the slightest bit interested in Sheba’s disappearance. We don’t have long to wait before the final guest arrives. Unlike her rivals, this young woman is pretty. A natural beauty with long black hair. I wonder why she wants to take part in this tacky party tonight. She puts on the all-too-familiar superior look and sits near the other women without greeting anyone.Cassius, one of the volunteer helpers, enters a few moments later. He reads off the names of the women on his list. When he calls out Sheba’s name I tell him that Sheba withdrew. Another woman enters the room while Cassius is making the alteration to his list. She’s in her mid-twenties and dressed in a smart black leather outfit. She hands Cassius a small bag and murmurs something only he can hear.He nods and the new arrival moves over to where the other women are sitting. Although there are empty seats on my side of the room, she stands over one of the women and tells her to move. To my surprise, she and the woman next to her meekly stand up and move across the room.“The arrangements for tonight have been changed,” says Cassius. “Mansel from Bourbon commune will be hosting the party. Paulo and Chloe have each made alternative arrangements for tonight.What?!Mansel enters a few moments later and Cassius disappears with the bag the black clad woman gave him."Well, this appears to be my lucky night,” smirks Mansel.Mansel calls out the names of the five city-born women and escorts them out of the room. They seem puzzled by the change of plan, but Mansel’s pleasant banter seems to remove their immediate concerns. While Mansel acknowledges my presence, it appears I’m not invited to his party.That leaves me and the woman in black. The others have barely left the room when she stands up and moves across the room and sits next to me. I feel slightly intimidated by her domineering presence.“Hi. I’m Sarah,” she says in a pleasant voice. Not at all like the tone she used with the other women only moments before.“Hi, I’m.”“I know who you are, Jasmine. Your face has been plastered on the entertainment feed for most of the evening. Which leaves the question of what are you doing trying to gatecrash this party? Were you hoping to sabotage some of your rivals tonight? That would be very risky and not very sporting.”“There’s nothing sporting about the Argonaut,” I reply. “But sabotage isn’t my style. Paulo invited me to the party and I agreed to come. Now it looks as though he’s stood me up.”“Nonsense. Why change the host of the party? It would be far simpler to cancel your invitation. Anyway, it explains the reason for the change of plan. I admire your courage. I’m betting on you being one of the winners of the Argonaut. Take this; it may prove useful. If you emerge victorious, then contact me after the Argonaut is over. I might be able to arrange something that is mutually beneficial to both of us.”I look at the card Sarah has given me. It simply contains a picture of a black cat.“Um; Thank you. But there’s no address on the card,” I say.“Ha ha! What an innocent you are! So delightful. Any of the Argonaut officials will know how to find 'Le Chat Noir’. Just remember to ask for me by name.”I tuck Sarah’s card into my pocket and nervously look about the room. Has Paulo changed his mind about seeing me?“When you see Paulo, you must stamp your authority on him,” says Sarah. “He will feel uncertain about you after your success tonight. Don’t lose your advantage by turning into a blushing maiden.”“You have experience at handling this sort of situation then?” I ask.“Ha ha ha! Yes. You could say that. I was once an innocent young nineteen-year-old like you, but these days I’m co-owner of Le Chat Noir club. It caters for clients with rather special tastes. I’m here to meet a client now. Just watch and learn. But a word of advice; know when to keep your mouth shut about what you see.”Cassius returns with Chloe. She is wearing a thin coat over whatever she is wearing underneath. She sees me talking to Sarah and freezes. The look she gives me leaves me in no doubt that I’ll be her first target for elimination tomorrow, possibly sooner. Sarah stands and walks over to Chloe and stands a meter in front of her. Without any verbal exchange Chloe removes her coat and hands it to Cassius. I thought the clothes I am wearing are skimpy and revealing, but Chloe’s clothes border on indecent. She wearing a leather skirt that could be more accurately described as a wide belt, and a top so flimsy that one good cough would send it flying across the room. A small black cat motif is visible on both items of clothing. The clothes must have been what was inside the bag Sarah gave to Cassius.“Good evening, Chloe. I’m Sarah. You have requested my services for this evening. Do you understand and agree to tonight’s arrangements?”“Yes,” says Chloe in a subdued tone. She suddenly flinches at the steely gaze Sarah gives her. “Yes, Miss Sarah,” Chloe corrects herself in a louder voice.Sarah nods and signals Chloe to put on her coat. Sarah then escorts Chloe from the room. “I’ll return her here at two o'clock,” says Sarah to Cassius. As she leaves Sarah quickly turns to me and winks.I stand bemused at what just occurred before my eyes. I’ve no idea what sort of arrangement Sarah and Chloe have but my fertile imagination can come up with several possibilities.Chapter 15: Seduced by Paulo“Chloe will kill you if you mutter one word about what you’ve just seen to Paulo or anybody else,” says Cassius, clearly not happy about Chloe’s arrangements for tonight.“I think she wants to kill me anyway, but I’m not a blabber mouth,” I reply, heeding Sarah’s advice about knowing when to stay silent. “Whatever games she wants to play tonight are her own business as far as I’m concerned.”“Hmm. OK. That’s a good attitude.; Now I shall escort you to where Paulo is waiting.”I follow Cassius to the elevator, and we go up to one of the rooms on the top floor of the building. I can hear Mansel’s party further down the corridor.“Be gone by 2 am,” says Cassius as we enter what must have once been a teacher’s living quarters. “If Chloe discovers you here when she returns I can’t answer for your safety.”I nod in acknowledgement of his sound advice. I walk into the living room and see Paulo sat by the window. I turn to say 'thank you’ to Cassius, but he is already on his way out.“We have the place to ourselves,” says Paulo. “Chloe decided to go out again and Mansel agreed to take over hosting the party. I hope you aren’t too disappointed about missing the party.”“I’m most upset,” I lie. “I was so looking forward to a decent party and you change the arrangements without even informing me.”“I’ll do my best to make it up to you. Would you like something to drink?”I let Paulo make a close examination of my outfit. He reaches out to touch me but I grab his hand.“Not so fast, Paulo. We have a few things to sort out before we go any further.”He steps back and looks at me with a puzzled frown. This isn’t going the way he expected and I’ve got him off balance. I shall follow Sarah’s advice and show him who is in control of whom tonight.“Firstly; What is my name?” I ask, recalling that he had admitted to previously fucking young women without bothering to learn their name.“Jasmine,” he laughs. “After this evening’s broadcast I could hardly not know it.”“Good,” I reply. “Now, there is the not-so-small matter of you abandoning me at two o'clock this morning with a chain locked around my ankle. I think I deserve some serious groveling from you for that shabby trick.”“I said I’m sorry and explained it was Chloe’s doing. What more do you want me to do?”“Don’t hide behind Chloe’s skirt,” I say, mentally recalling that very little could hide behind the skirt Chloe was wearing when she left here. “You can kiss my feet. Then I might forgive you.”“Kiss your feet?! You’re joking, of course!; You’re not, are you?”I let the silence between us continue. Paulo doesn’t know what to do. He resolves the impasse by pacing about the room. I’ve won a victory of sorts. At least he isn’t throwing me out. While he is pacing about I move over to a chair and sit down. Paulo returns with a plate of nibbles and silently offers it to me.“Thank you, Paulo,” I say as though our previous conversation hadn’t occurred.I can tell that his grand seduction scene has collapsed around his ears. I just hope he doesn’t take too long making his mind up about my demand. Yesterday I would have pretended it was a joke so we could move onto what we both want to do. Tonight I feel the need to ensure Paulo sees me as an equal and not just some wench who is good for a roll in bed.Paulo sits on the couch a couple of meters away from me. He tries making small talk, but his efforts are half-hearted and our stilted conversation peters out. Then he leaps up without warning. I tense in case I need to defend myself. But he sits down on the floor near me and lifts my left foot. Off goes my shoe and he gives the top of my foot a short kiss. Then he removes my right shoe. Instead of kissing the top of my foot he nibbles my toes. The pleasant sensation makes me giggle.“So, am I forgiven for leaving you alone in the café last night?” he says.“Umm; possibly. Why don’t we move over to the couch and you can apologize some more?”Before I can stand up Paulo lifts me in his arms. He carries me to the couch and lays me length ways with my head resting on the arm of the couch. He kneels on the floor by my head and before I know what is happening we are locked in a deep kiss. This is the seduction scene he had planned before my arrival and unless I exert some control over what is happening I will become a willing slave to passion. My traitorous body yields to his skillful hands as they roam freely over the exposed parts of my body. Any minute now those hands will be exploring more intimate territory and I’m not certain I will be able to stop him. Worse still, I’m not certain I actually want to stop him.Finally he releases my mouth and begins work on my neck. The sensations I felt last night are returning in force. My body arches as his hands start working towards zones that should be out-of- bounds. At least out-of-bounds unless and until I give my permission. The sensible part of my mind makes a valiant effort to exert some control. Not control over Paulo, but control over me.“Wait, Paulo!” I gasp.Last night he would have completely ignored my request and continued with his great seduction. Last night I wouldn’t have made any effort to repeat my plea. Tonight Paulo is a little more wary of me and to my surprise he complies. Which is fortunate as I’m not certain I would have the willpower to repeat my request tonight any more than I had last night. I use the pause to reposition myself into a more comfortable position. In doing so I free my left arm which had been trapped under my body since Paulo lay me on the couch.“You are going too fast for me,” I say. “We have plenty of time tonight, or have you other plans for later on?”“My only plans for tonight involve you and only you,” he replies showing a remarkable amount of sensitivity to my needs.It’s not that I’m unwilling or uncertain about tonight. I came here knowing full well our relationship would go much further than last night. My insides quivered with desire when I realized I will have Paulo’s exclusive attention. Not once have I been in any doubt that this is where I want to be tonight. I know tomorrow Paulo and I will be enemies; No! Not enemies. Rivals. The junta and their supporters are the enemy for perpetuating the evils of serfdom.“You are going all thoughtful on me,” says Paulo when he notices my distraction.“Sorry,” I reply.This time I really am sorry for letting my mind wander. Tonight belongs to Paulo and me. My hand reaches out for his chest. Without any conscious command, my hand unfastens two buttons on his shirt and slips inside the opening. He simply allows my hand to explore. My other hand takes one of his hands and guides it towards my shoulder. Secretly I’m hoping he will take my hint and unfasten the single strap holding my top in place. But his hand moves in another direction and starts playing with my hair. His touch is divine and I respond willingly to his caress. He is far more skilled than me at this sort of play. I feel slightly embarrassed that I’m unable to give him the same degree of pleasure that he is giving me.“I’m not experienced at this sort of thing. Tell me what you would like me to do,” I whisper as he leans forward and kisses my neck again.“Anything? You would do anything?” he whispers.“Yes. Within reason,” I reply. The sensible part of my mind is still with me, even if the rest of me wishes it wasn’t.“Can you dance?” he asks.Of all the things I thought he would ask of me, dancing never entered into my head. I haven’t danced in years. My mother taught me to dance when I was little. But twelve hour working days leave very little room for dancing.“I haven’t danced in years, but I think I can remember how. Is that what you want me to do? Dance with you?”“Yes. I’ll put on some music and we shall dance.”To be continued in part 4, by Rachael Jane for Literotica.

The Jewels of DesireIn 4 parts, by Rachael Jane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Chapter 7: An underhand trick.I quickly realize the seriousness of my situation. If I don’t return to the dormitory before roll-call, I will be returned to Buchanan in shame. A chill runs through me. I berate myself for being so stupid as to drop my guard and allow Paulo to chain me like this. There is no doubt in my mind that he’s the one responsible for my predicament.Is he being a coward who is scared of meeting me in fair competition? That seems inconsistent with the Paulo I’ve been with tonight, but he would surely have woken me had he noticed anybody else entering this café while we slept. Perhaps he is a better actor than I gave him credit. For all I know, his training could have included a course in seducing maidens. After all, half the contestants are young women. Some, like me, will be gullible enough to fall for Paulo’s charms, and walk into his deadly trap. But I mustn’t dwell on Paulo’s reasons. My immediate priority is to get free.I test the strength of the chain restraining me. It’s similar to the security chain threaded through the handles of the cabinets behind the bar. Paulo must have come across a spare length of chain while he was exploring earlier. The chain is lightweight but strong. There is no way I can break it. Which means I must somehow break the lock securing the chain to my ankle. It is a combination lock like the one securing the other end of the chain to the table. Unless I’m extremely lucky, I won’t have enough time to open the lock by randomly guessing the five-digit combination. Just as I’m about to vent my frustration with a few choice curses, a flash of inspiration hits me. Paulo must have known the combination to fasten the lock to the chain. How did he know the combination?I check the tables and floor around me, as far as my chain allows. The combination must be written on something. I just hope it is something within reach. Could Paulo have been careless and left me the combination?The chain is long enough for me to reach the small service area next to the bar. If the owners of the café have written down the combination, then this is the most likely place on this level. My frantic search is rewarded when I find a basket holding more lengths of chain and padlocks. Each padlock has a small detachable tag with the combination for that lock printed on it. Unlocking the padlock enables the tag to be removed. I search the bottom of the basket for any tags no longer with their padlock. Sure enough I find four tags. Hopefully one belongs to the lock securing the chain around my ankle.I try the numbers on the lock on my ankle. I meet with success on the third number, and within seconds I’m free of my chain. But before I can go anywhere I hear two people talking. They are coming up the interior staircase from the main café below. Two voices I recognize. Paulo and Chloe! They are too close for me to try and exit over the balcony, so I can’t leave the way Paulo and I entered. My only option in the time available is to pretend I’m still asleep and chained to the table.“See, she’s still asleep,” says Chloe. “The sound you heard was probably the fridge humming.”“I don’t know,” replies Paulo. “I’m still not happy about leaving her chained like this. It’s an underhand trick.”“Think yourself lucky I didn’t chain you as well,” replies Chloe. “You saw her during the preliminary session this evening. She’s a serious challenger and she’s best eliminated now.”“But someone will find her in the morning and set her free,” replies Paulo.“Yes. But she will have missed the eight o'clock roll-call by then, and she’ll be disqualified from the Argonaut.”“I still don’t like it. Anyway, why did you follow us? And how did you get out of the complex?”“I saw the pair of you as I was returning from a night out. I realized that this is a golden opportunity to improve my chances of success. Did you not read the Argonaut rules? Despite what most people believe, the contestants aren’t prisoners while we are here. As long as we attend the morning and evening roll-calls, and the various tests and interviews, we can come and go as we please. Why do you think your night time frolics weren’t stopped?”“The rules? You mean that fifty page book they gave us when we arrived? Of course I’ve not read it!”“Well if you spent less time trying to climb between a girl’s legs, and more time paying attention to what really matters, your chances of winning a work permit might be better. Come on, we’re leaving before sleeping beauty wakes up and starts screaming the place down.”“How do we get out of here?” asks Paulo.“You’re not too bright are you,” scoffs Chloe. “The door lock only stops people entering the café. We can just walk down to the front door and back to our dormitory.”Paulo and Chloe leave. My anger competes with my embarrassment. I get up as soon as I’m sure they have gone. Paulo has taken my nightie and Chloe has taken my towel. I’ve no clothes and I’m starting to get cold. A naked woman is easy target for any loiterers out there. At this time of night any city citizens still about may well be on the prowl for sex. I search the service area for a tablecloth or something to put over me. I find an apron that at least provides me with a semblance of decency.I make my way back to the old boarding school, making sure Paulo and Chloe are nowhere in sight. Re-entering the school presents no problem. Chloe is right in saying the contestants are allowed to come and go. Perhaps I should have read the rule book as well but my late acceptance to the Argonaut meant that I only had a few days to prepare.A retina scan at the security desk confirms my identity and I’m allowed to return to my dormitory. My anger at Paulo’s betrayal has abated. Despite Chloe’s intrusion, I did actually enjoy my time with him tonight, particularly when I remember why I chose to leave my room wearing such provocative clothing in the first place. I was looking for the type of experience and adventure which Paulo delivered. Not that I am in any mood to forgive him; but I’m no longer embarrassed or afraid. If anything, Chloe’s actions have filled me with determination and resolve. Yesterday I was nervous of the specially trained contestants; today I realize they are actually afraid of me. I shall look forward to seeing Paulo and Chloe’s faces when I appear for roll-call in the morning.The clock says it is 3:30 in the morning when my head hits my pillow. This time I have no difficulty falling asleep.Chapter 8: Preparations“Stop fidgeting, Jasmine,” says Ellen, my dormitory’s assigned helper from the collection of city-born volunteers for the Argonaut. “You need to look your best this afternoon.”It’s a message Ellen has constantly repeat. Along with the forty-nine other hopefuls, I will be paraded in front of the television cameras this afternoon. What’s worse, ten of us must endure a five minute interview with Darrian, one of the obnoxious hosts of the televised segments of the Argonaut. None of us will know which ten of us are to be interviewed until we are on-air. I can honestly say that I am dreading it. The only benefit in being selected for an interview is the opportunity it provides to improve my chances of winning. Only a few contestants will be declared the eventual winners of the Argonaut, but that won’t be until the final session on Sunday. Of course, fluffing an interview would be disastrous for my chances.I sigh as I add the finishing touches to my dress. When I picked it from the studio’s wardrobe I thought it to be a beautiful dress. Now I’m not so sure. I’m grateful for Ellen’s valiant efforts to make me look my best, even if I don’t see the purpose of this afternoon’s charade.“How do you feel?” asks Ellen when she is satisfied with her work.“It’s a beautiful dress. Thank you,” I say with as much enthusiasm as I can muster; which isn’t much, given my lingering dislike for this cattle market in the first place. But I had few other options open to me when I accepted the belated offer from an anonymous benefactor to sponsor me for this event. And winning the Argonaut will at least mean that my family can benefit as well.“Yes, I know how you look in it, Jasmine. But how do you feel?” persists Ellen.“How should I feel?” I reply, slightly surprised by her question.“Jasmine! You ungrateful girl!” snaps Ellen. “I am trying to help you.”“I know, and despite what you think, I appreciate your efforts,” I reply. “But I feel like a marionette; all dressed up to please an audience who simply want to ogle pretty young men and women desperate enough to parade about for the entertainment of our so-called betters. Aren’t we just fifty puppets, each performing to the studio’s script?”“Your image is important, Jasmine,” says Ellen. “Most of those in the audience will be deciding their vote on how attractive you are. Harper will advise you what to say when you have your session with him later. Impress the audience tonight, even if you aren’t interviewed, and someone watching may help you to gain a work permit. If you don’t, then they will favor one of your rivals.”I’ve heard this speech from Ellen at least twice already this morning, and it isn’t even ten o'clock yet. I know she believes in what she is saying, but somehow I can’t buy into the rotten arrangement. It’s true that several previous winners of the Argonaut owe their career success to the timely arrival of a sponsor’s helping hand. But nothing in our world comes for free. Some contestants may be naïve enough to believe that sponsors give their generous help through the kindness of their hearts, but I’m not one of them. If a contestant is lucky, their sponsor is only interested in winning a high stakes bet. But lurking in the background are those sponsors whose help comes with unsavory conditions that enslave their victim for life. The alternative is to fail, and live out your life as a serf in your settlement, but you don’t need a sponsor’s help to do that.“You asked me how I feel, and I gave you my answer,” I snap. “Don’t worry, I won’t disgrace you this afternoon by picking my nose in front of the cameras. I’ll read Harper’s script as you demand.”“Will someone try talking some sense into her,” says Ellen to nobody in particular, throwing her hands in the air in exasperation.“I’m sorry, Ellen,” I say when it becomes apparent that she isn’t about to launch into another lecture. “I really do like the dress. But there’s nothing of the real me in this outfit.”“There’s no need to be sorry. I should have realized what is missing before. You need some jewelry to complete your outfit. I have a good collection. You can borrow a few items. I’ll go and pick out a few suitable things for you.”“No, Ellen,” interrupts Vincent, a contestant from Tudor who shares this dormitory. “Jasmine must be allowed to choose her own jewelry. At the moment she is merely the wearer of that studio dress. You should let her transform it into an outfit of her own.”Ellen and I look at Vincent in surprise. For my part, I’m amazed by Vincent’s understanding of my needs; even though I don’t fully understand them myself. When I look at Ellen I begin to worry in case she might refuse. It’s one thing to lend me a ring or a necklace of her choice; it is something else entirely to let me rummage through her private jewelry collection.“Yes, yes, OK,” says Ellen after a few moments hesitation. “I’m not certain many of my pieces are suitable for a young woman, but I will allow Jasmine to look through what I have. Follow me, Jasmine.”I quickly change into my ordinary clothes and hang up my dress in the wardrobe I’ve been allocated for my things. I follow Ellen to her private quarters in the south wing of the old boarding school. Ellen’s room is one of several small but comfortable rooms provided for the volunteer support staff. Unlike the contestants’ dormitories, the rooms in the south wing aren’t monitored by the intrusive security cameras. I’m just thankful Ellen hasn’t decided to stay in her own apartment, which is apparently on the other side of the city.“Make yourself comfortable, Jasmine, while I fetch my collection,” says Ellen as she goes to the safe located inside the wardrobe.I sit in one of the two easy chairs and look around Ellen’s room while I wait. Her few personal effects tell me very little about the real Ellen. Until now I have thought of her as one of the many city-born oddballs. Someone who means well, but circulates in a completely different world to me. When I see the small chest full of jewelry I realize there is an aspect to Ellen I never knew existed.“I’ve not had much chance to sort them out,” says Ellen when I peer into the chest. “Everything is a bit jumbled up.”The contents of the chest resemble a pirate’s treasure trove in miniature. Some items are inside small boxes, while others are simply let loose. Several necklaces have become tangled around each other.“Oh, ignore those,” says Ellen. “They’re just cheap trinkets. The items we are interested in are in the boxes at the bottom.”I delve deeper into the chest. Sure enough, below the tangled necklaces and bangles I find a dozen or so different sized boxes. I carefully lift them out and spread them out on the table. I lift the lid on each box and my mouth drops in amazement. Most boxes contain a matching set of ring, necklace and earrings. A few contain broaches and other types of jewelry. I return to the chest and remove the two larger boxes at the very bottom. I place them next to the other boxes on the table.“Ah! I wouldn’t bother with those,” says Ellen before I can open the lids to the last two boxes. “They aren’t suitable for a respectable young woman.”Her comment raises my interest, but I do as she asks and focus my attention on the boxes I have opened. I’ve no idea whether I’m looking at priceless jewels or glass imitations. After studying each box in turn I realize I have subconsciously made my choice.“May I try this one on?” I ask picking out a ring with a beautiful green gemstone. Ellen nods in response.The ring with the green gem seems to draw me to it in a way none of the other items do. I slip the ring on my finger; it’s a snug fit, but not too tight. I try on the necklace and earrings as well, and walk over to the mirror. I think they are the most beautiful pieces of jewelry I’ve ever seen. In the corner of my eye I can see Ellen watching me with a strange expression on her face.“I like these the most,” I say to Ellen. “May I borrow them this afternoon? I promise to take good care of them.”“Hmmm. You surprise me, Jasmine. I had expected you to go for the diamond cluster or the rubies. What made you choose the emerald ring and necklace?”“I don’t know. I like several of the other sets, but this ring somehow calls to me. If you think it inappropriate, I’ll happily change my choice.”“No, that won’t be necessary. Choosing jewelry is a very personal act. You like what you like. But you said it called to you. What did it say?”I could be trite and say ‘pick me, pick me’, but that isn’t what I sense. It’s more like an energy flowing into me through the ring. It’s as though a former wearer of the ring has left her imprint in the ring and she is communicating with me. I try explaining what I sense to Ellen.“I’m sorry, I know I’m being foolish,” I say when I finish my lame explanation.“Interesting,” says Ellen in reply. “The ring is very old. I’ve never sensed what you describe, but my great-aunt always claimed that the ring spoke to her.”“So the ring and necklace have a history then?”“The necklace is a more recent piece my great-aunt had made to go with the ring. The ring, however, is hundreds of years old. It is reputed to have been made for the daughter of a great ruler. Legend says that she was a warrior princess who rode into battle at the side of her father. When her father died, and her brother became ruler, the princess devoted the rest of her life, and her considerable wealth, to helping the poorer people of her lands. It is a perfect match for you Jasmine.”I try my best to stifle a laugh. Ellen must be joking with me. Warrior, princess and wealth are three words which have never been associated with me, nor are they ever likely to be. Ellen doesn’t pay my reaction any mind, and begins placing the lids back on the other jewelry boxes. A knock at the door stops Ellen before she can finish. She leaves me alone while she answers the door.Chapter 9: The princess and professorEllen goes to the door, but she doesn’t admit the caller into her room. I can hear Ellen and another woman talking, but I can’t make out what they are discussing. It soon becomes apparent that they could be a while. I resume what Ellen had started, and close the lids on the remaining jewelry boxes. Then I remove the emerald ring, necklace and earrings I’ve been wearing and return them to their box, placing it to one side. Ellen still hasn’t agreed to allow me to wear the emeralds tonight, but I remain hopeful.On impulse I open one of the boxes Ellen had dissuaded me from opening earlier. Inside is a large piece of jewelry. At first glance it looks like a large multi-strand necklace with several gold chains, each slightly longer than the one above, meeting at a single point at the back of the wearer’s neck. The chains are decorated with small red gems that catch the light. But what makes the piece unusual are the two small shaped metal discs on the lowest chain. The two discs look like flattened cones, and each is engraved with a strange symbol. I carefully lift the piece out of its box to examine the engraving. Too late I realize I’m not alone.“What are you doing, Jasmine?” asks Ellen.“Oh! Oh! I’m sorry,” I stammer. “I didn’t mean any harm. I was just looking.”“Well, well, well, Ellen,” says the woman standing next to Ellen. “I can’t believe you still have that piece.”I look up and see that Ellen has invited two people into the room. The woman looks very like Ellen, so I presume she is Ellen’s sister or cousin. My heart sinks when I recognize Ellen’s male guest is one of the other contestants. One I’ve tangled with before. Paulo!“What’s going on?” I ask, suddenly feeling very wary.“Don’t worry, Jasmine,” replies Ellen. “This is my sister, Sylvie. The Argonaut organizers have assigned her to support Paulo’s dormitory. Paulo you know, of course.”Of course I recognize Paulo. He’s the man who deflowered me last night. Seeing him here like this does funny things to my emotions. As much as I hate to admit it, I’m attracted to him. An attraction which could spell disaster to my chances of succeeding in the Argonaut. Ever since I first saw him I must constantly remind myself that Paulo is a dangerous rival; not someone I should be trusting with my affections.Sylvie takes the necklace from me and holds it up to my breasts. I almost die of embarrassment. I now realize the purpose of the spring-clips on the inside of the metal cones. Ellen was right; this isn’t something a decent young woman should wear. But Paulo’s presence and my self-preservation skills save me from revealing my naivety. I remember the golden rule which my father instilled in me when we hunted together in the woods; 'Never show weakness in front of a dangerous predator’. I brazen the episode through by making light of the situation.“What do you think, Paulo?” I tease. “Do you think I should wear this tonight? Will the sponsors in the audience like it?”My self-confidence takes an enormous leap forward when I see Paulo is struggling for words. Sylvie saves him from having to answer my questions.“Don’t flirt with Paulo, Jasmine,” she admonishes. “What you wear is up to you. If you want to look like a prostitute, then that’s up to you.”“That piece has never belonged to a prostitute, Sylvie,” exclaims Ellen. “You know it was made for our great-aunt Sophie.”Paulo and I just stand and watch as Ellen and Sylvie have an extended spat over the occupation and morals of the great-aunt in question. In other circumstances their quarrel would be funny. But inside this small room, their quarrel is making me feel uncomfortable.“We could go for a drink or something while they finish scratching each other’s eyes out,” says Paulo. “I saw a café of sorts just down the corridor.”“Um; Yeah, sure,” I reply, anxious to get out of here.“Paulo and I are going to the café while you two sort out your differences,” I manage to say to Ellen during a moments respite in her row with Sylvie. I don’t wait to see if what I say registers in her mind.Paulo shows me the way to the café he saw earlier. The café is quiet since almost everybody in the complex is busy preparing for this afternoon’s television show. Fortunately I carry a small amount of pocket money for situations like this. It seems Paulo’s does the same. We each order a drink and sit down at one of the tables.“You really are an enigma,” says Paulo in a pleasant tone. “Would you really wear a piece of jewelry like that?”“Perhaps,” I reply, knowing I wouldn’t really do any such thing.“So, how did you manage to get back in time for this morning’s roll-call?” asks Paulo.“That’s for me to know, and you to worry about,” I reply, not entirely forgiving Paulo for his part in Chloe’s dirty trick of chaining me to a table while I was asleep.“Fair enough. So tell me about yourself.”I’m not going to fall for that one! Paulo must think me really stupid if he believes I’ll reveal all my strengths and weaknesses to him. I’m not going to forget that we are rivals. I’m relieved when I see the expression on Paulo’s face. He’s just fishing, and he knows I won’t tell him anything important.“I’m really a warrior princess who rides into battle alongside my father,” I say, playing along with Ellen’s story about the emerald ring’s history. “When I’m not fighting battles, I spend my time helping the poor people of our realm.”“Oh, really?” replies Paulo. “And I suppose Jasmine isn’t your real name.”“No, of course not,” I reply. “It’s; um; Mihrimah.”“Ah! Mihrimah. A name which means 'the sun and moon’ does it not?” laughs Paulo. “We obviously read the same books. How does the line go? Ah yes, I remember, 'The Ancients believe that mih ri mah, the sun and moon, protect the emerald forest.’ I think you aren’t being entirely truthful with me, princess.”I can’t help but join in his laughter. There are hundreds of books available on the local feeds. It’s the only form of free entertainment open to serfs. What are the chances of Paulo reading the same book that I like?“So, I’ve told you about me. What about you?” I reply.“Oh me? I’m but a humble scholar who studies history; law; science; um,” begins Paulo.“Really? I would never have thought a foot soldier would be so well educated, professor,” I tease.“There is a lot you don’t know about me, princess.”“I know. It’s a shame we can’t talk to each other like normal people,” I say. “There’s too much at stake for both of us.”“But we can at least be civil to each other,” replies Paulo. “We must have a lot in common. We both like the same books, and we are both crazy enough to have accepted a sponsor’s nomination to be here.”“What made you accept your nomination?” I ask.“Winning the Argonaut will secure my future,” replies Paulo. “I didn’t want to sign up for another ten years in the military. Nor did I want to spend the rest of my life as a serf working in the pack-houses for twelve hours a day, and being paid inadequate wages. I can’t afford any of the other ways of acquiring a work permit for a city job.”“Winning the Argonaut may simply give you a more comfortable prison,” I say. “How many Argonaut winners do you know of who have gone on to live a carefree life? None, I bet. Most of them are at the beck and call of their sponsors. According to the news-feeds, only a few have ever married and had children.”“You have obviously studied the subject,” replies Paulo. “You are right, I suppose. But I’ve no intention of ever having children, and I’m strong enough to avoid seeking comfort in alcohol and drugs. How about you? Despite a bleak outcome if you win, that hasn’t deterred you from applying for an assessment. Wouldn’t you rather have a family of your own?”“Me? Like you I must take risks if I want to be free of serfdom. And I wouldn’t be so irresponsible as to bring a child into the world we live in. Our rulers ensure our laws keep them secure in their privileged position.”“But if the world changed, would you want children then?” asks Paulo.“Perhaps,” I muse. “But changing the ways of our rulers doesn’t seem likely. What we did last night was probably a once-only event for me.”“You still have time.”“To do what? To change the ways of our rulers? Hardly.”“No. To solve your other problem.”“Is that some form of pick-up line?” I laugh. “When and where do you suggest we do the deed? Might I remind you we have to perform on a television show this afternoon; and tomorrow’s schedule won’t make it any easier.”“I shall work something out. I’m greatly encouraged by the fact you don’t reject the idea out of hand.”Chapter 10: Game in progressI’m surprised. Not by Paulo’s words, but by my own behavior. For some reason I’m not being my normal shy and easily embarrassed self. Not that I mind. This whole conversation makes me feel so alive. I lean forward and look into Paulo’s eyes, daring him to respond. He matches my movement and we are sitting face to face, only centimeters apart.Then everything turns into chaos. Just as I am contemplating sharing a kiss with Paulo, Ellen arrives. She’s not alone. Sylvie and three security guards are with her.“What on earth do you think you are doing, Jasmine?” growls Sylvie. “I raised the alarm when I realized you had left Ellen’s room. Don’t you remember any of the personal safety instructions you were given?”I glare at Sylvie, trying my best to restrain my anger. I’m about to let fly with a tirade, when Paulo places his hand on my arm.“Jasmine and I came out here while you two had a sisterly reunion,” says Paulo. “Jasmine told Ellen where we were going. It’s hardly Jasmine’s fault if Ellen didn’t listen.”“Hum, Well; OK; I suppose,” blusters Sylvie, unable to find anything wrong with what Paulo has just said. “But you two should not be together without supervision. Come on Paulo. We shall return to your dormitory.”“We were hardly unsupervised,” Paulo replies. “The café proprietor was here.”Paulo seems to have quietened Sylvie’s thunder. I’m still angry with her, but I will hold my wrath in check until we are somewhere more private.“Thank you for a pleasant interlude, professor,” I say as I stand up. “As you can see, we are summoned back to reality. Such are the trials of a Argonaut contestant.”“And thank you, princess, for bestowing a humble scholar with the honor of your regal company,” replies Paulo in a mischievous tone.I can’t help but laugh, despite my anger with Sylvie. On impulse I lean over and kiss Paulo on the lips. I don’t know whether I do it simply to annoy Sylvie, or to fuel Paulo’s interest in me. Either way, my action succeeds on both counts.“We must do this again sometime,” I reply.I don’t get to hear Paulo’s response. Ellen takes my arm and guides me back to my dormitory. Neither of us says anything on the journey back along the corridors. Only when we arrive at my dormitory does Ellen show her relief and delight at finding me safe.“Well? Are you going to explain yourself?” asks Ellen firmly, but without the venom Sylvie added to her same question when I was with Paulo.“Paulo told you what happened. You and Sylvie got into a row, so Paulo and I stepped out while you sorted out your differences. End of story.”“Not 'end of story’, Jasmine. What were you and Paulo discussing?” persists Ellen.“Ellen!” I say, barely holding my anger in check. “I appreciate your help and advice, but you are not my mother. I don’t have to explain to you what I say and do with a man.”“Yes you do,” replies Ellen, unmoved by my reply. “While you are here in the Argonaut complex, I am responsible for your safety. Your battle for victory doesn’t start with this afternoon’s television show. The Argonaut has already begun. Until you are either eliminated or declared a victor, I need to know about your every move so that I can protect you. Now, I repeat my question; what were you and Paulo discussing?”I look at Ellen. As soon as I do, I realize that this isn’t an argument I’m going to win.“Fine! Have it your way,” I sigh. “We were just talking about a make believe life and family.”“And what was the meaning of the kiss?” asks Ellen, still not willing to let the matter drop.“It’s what a man and woman do when they like each other,” I reply.“You like him!?” splutters Ellen. “In case you’ve forgotten, he’s going to be trying to eliminate you from the Argonaut!”“And I him,” I reply. “That doesn’t mean that we don’t like each other. The officials can put us through all the tests their warped minds can devise, but they can’t tell us who to love or hate.”“I can’t believe this,” sighs Ellen. “Is there anyone who can make you see sense.”“I know you think I’m obstinate and moody,” I say before Ellen can begin a lecture. “You don’t have to help me if you don’t want. I know my chances of winning are slim, but I want live my life on my own terms. I won’t think any less of you if you simply wash your hands of me.”There’s a stunned silence. I’ve taken Ellen by surprise.“What did I tell you?” says Vincent, who has been sitting on his bed watching our argument. “There’s fire in her soul. I for one will be proud to help Jasmine if she needs me.”“Yes, me too,” says Ellen. “When we are finished here I shall fetch the emeralds you liked, Jasmine. You’ll knock the audience dead wearing those tonight.”“Does that mean you are allowing me a free reign to do what I want later?” I ask Ellen.“No. Of course not. You’re still a novice at the underhand games which will be played out behind the scenes this afternoon and tonight. In fact they’ve already begun. Doesn’t it strike you as strange that Sylvie and Paulo just happened to call at to my room while you were there? Was it you or Paulo who suggested going to the café when Sylvie started arguing with me? Do you think Paulo is really interested in you, or is he simply trying to gain useful information which he can use against you?”“Those thoughts had crossed my mind,” I reply. “I agree. I don’t believe Paulo’s presence in your room was a coincidence. But which of us gains the upper hand as a consequence is still a game in progress.”“What do you mean, Jasmine? What game?”“I intend to see Paulo again when I can. He may be physically stronger than me, but very few of the Argonaut’s tests rely on muscle. However, when it comes to mind games, I think I am better than him. I shall find out when I next see him.”“You are playing a dangerous game, Jasmine. I advise you to abandon your quest. If you fail, Paulo and the other contestants will target you for early elimination tomorrow.”“I think my contestant profile that the Argonaut’s organizers have published already marks me as a target. Paulo’s appearance this morning only confirms it. My best chance is to weaken Paulo’s resolve to attack me. He must either fear me or love me.”“If that is your strategy, then I salute your cunning,” says Ellen. “But I still advise against it. There is very little I can do to help you.”“I don’t ask for your help. All I ask is that you don’t hinder my hunt.”“Very well,” says Ellen. “Providing you keep me or the reception desk informed of your whereabouts. Kidnapping a contestant is a very risky tactic, but it has been tried before. Remember, if you fail to turn up for a roll-call, you will be automatically eliminated.”“How about you let Jasmine’s try on her dress with the jewelry she has chosen,” says Vincent. “The others will be returning soon for lunch. It will be better if you have finished the fitting before they arrive.”Ellen nods in agreement and goes to fetch the emerald jewelry I picked.“Where is Patrick?” I ask, suddenly remembering he left the dormitory a few hours ago for a run.“He finished early,” says Vincent. “He went down to one of the private rooms to practice his interview skills.”“Is he still angry with me?” I ask.“Angry with you? Why do you think he is angry with you?” asks Vincent.“We travelled here together, but as soon as we arrived he suddenly didn’t want anything more to do with me. Something I did must have made him do that.”“You have already identified the reason, Jasmine,” says Vincent. “You said your best chance of winning is to make your rivals either fear you or love you. Paulo isn’t the only man who will be competing against you.”“But why would Patrick fear me? We were getting along fine until we arrived here.”“He doesn’t fear you, Jasmine,” says Vincent. “Well, not much.”“Then he; oh!” I say, suddenly realizing that the strange looks Patrick has been giving me had a deeper meaning than I thought.Chapter 11: A little tendernessI take the studio supplied dress from my wardrobe, and I quickly change into it. I’m busy admiring myself in the mirror when Ellen returns with her emerald ring, necklace and earrings. She fastens the necklace for me, and for the first time I see the combined effect of the dress with Ellen’s emeralds.“Perfect,” says Ellen. I can’t help but agree with her. If looks alone could see me through this afternoon’s performance, then I would be home and dry. But I must still navigate my way through an interview, or make myself noticed if I’m not one of the ten contestants chosen. If I’m interviewed, I need to be eloquent and confident in my responses to the hosts’ questions. Not just because I want to impress any potential employers, but because Paulo and the other contestants will be watching my every move.“Do you think Paulo will like my outfit?” I ask Ellen.“Paulo? Hmmm; I think you will snare him with these emeralds.”“Do you think I have a better chance if I wear that piece which belonged to your great-aunt Sophie?” I ask, remembering Paulo’s reaction when he saw it. “Who was this great-aunt of yours anyway?”“Sophie? Oh, she was a famous dancer. Her stage name was Desire. She lived a very bohemian life. My parents regarded as the black sheep of the family. But I liked her. I used to visit Sophie quite often when I was young, so I knew Sophie much better than did Sylvie or any of my other sisters. That’s why Sophie left her jewelry to me when she died. The emeralds were hers as well. A gift from a man she lived with for many years.”“Have you ever worn her jewelry?” I ask.“The emeralds, yes, but not that piece you were looking at when Sylvie intruded. I’ve never been in a situation where it was appropriate to wear it. It’s not the sort of jewelry you wear in public places, and it takes a certain amount of confidence and practice to wear it. You do understand how it should be worn, don’t you?”“Yes. Thanks to Sylvie’s demonstration, I know how it fastens,” I say, giving Ellen a demonstration using my fingers to represent the spring-clips. “You would need to be wearing a thin top to stop it sliding off, though.”“Or no top at all,” laughs Ellen. “But we are getting side-tracked. The others will be here soon. If we are done I suggest you change back into your regular clothes."Ellen, could I borrow that piece of Sophie’s I saw earlier?”“What!? There is no way you are wearing that on the television show.”“No, of course I won’t. I do have some sense of propriety. But I might be able to use it to snare Paulo.”I put on my most winsome smile and Ellen finally agrees after some hesitation. She must have anticipated my request as she has the box with Sophie’s piece in her bag. She hands it to me.“You knew I was going to ask to borrow this,” I say.“I didn’t know, but I suspected you might ask when you noticed Paulo’s interest,” smiles Ellen. “You had best try it on. You might not be able to keep it in place.”I find a thin top and change out of the dress. Fortunately Vincent has decided to go for lunch. He’s harmless enough, but I think I’ve treated him to enough eye candy for now. Ellen hands me the jeweled piece and watches as I nervously place the discs in position. I anticipated a certain amount of discomfort from the pressure of the clips on my nipples, but the initial pain is almost unbearable. Fortunately the pain soon passes and after a short while I can only sense the weight of the piece tugging on my nipples and breasts.“Now try walking about,” says Ellen. “Try to shake it loose. We need to see whether it will stay in place.”I do as Ellen suggests and try moving into several different positions. The piece remains firmly in place, but several movements cause me to wince in pain as the weight or tension in the linking chain pulls against me. After a few minutes Ellen seems satisfied with my first attempt at wearing it.“OK,” says Ellen. “You can take the piece off.”What sounds like the simplest of tasks turns out to be the most excruciatingly painful experience I could imagine. As soon as the clips are removed, the numbness in my nipples quickly goes, and my body protests strongly. I bite my lips to prevent myself from crying out. If I fail this last test, then Ellen might not let me borrow the piece. I rub my chest gently to ease the pain, and after a while only a little tenderness remains.“Hmm. Do you still wish to borrow this piece?” asks Ellen as she places it back in its box.I nod and Ellen hands me the box. I give her a hug in thanks, being careful not to aggravate my tender breasts. The sound of Patrick’s voice coming from the corridor prompts me to finish changing and join the others for lunch.To be continued in part 3, by Rachael Jane for Literotica.

Love in Dangerous Waters.In 4 parts, by RachaelJane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Serf Jasmine seeks her freedom by entering the Argonaut.Chapter 1: The next stepThe domed city of Argon is a marvel of engineering created in the dying days of the old regimes. Uninterrupted wars; the plundering of rapidly diminishing resources; and extreme weather events, had reduced most of the planet’s population to little more than scavengers and refugees, dependent on the largesse of the privileged few who controlled most of the Earth’s remaining wealth and resources. The ideas of democracy and freedom had been swept away by the unstoppable return of the medieval concept of feudalism. The wealthy elite became the new aristocracy, while the bulk of the population was reduced to modern day serfs; indentured to their local overlord from cradle to grave.History doesn’t record exactly when the planet’s ruling elites decided to create huge domed cities like Argon. Possibly the domed cities simply evolved as the ravages of war, and the uncontrollable elements, destroyed wide swathes of land. Floods and wild fires herded those with the wealth and ability to move into defensible towns and cities. Those who lacked the means were abandoned to their fate. Hundreds of millions died. Taxes were directed solely towards protecting the new centers of population. Many old and famous towns and cities were left to the elements, or to the marauding armies who lived off the misery of others. Within a few decades, there was little trace of the old world. Even the rogue armies finally disbanded when it became too difficult to find food and supplies to service their rapacious needs.We’re told that Argon is typical of the domed cities scattered around what is left of the inhabited world. Argon’s large central city houses about eighty thousand people. Access to the domed part of the city is strictly controlled, and no serf is allowed into the central city without a special permit. To live inside the domed center requires wealth far beyond most people’s imagination. No city citizen ever dirties their hands doing menial tasks. Consequently, in order to service the needs of the new elite, nearly two hundred thousand people commute daily into the city from one of sixteen outer settlements. Most of the commuters are serfs who have purchased short term freedom from their settlement overlord. The commuting workforce provide all the essential services that keep the city operating from day to day. Laborers and house servants are in great demand, along with those who provide personal services ranging from hairdressing to sexual services.Despite the strict rules that control our lives, we are generally a happy population, or so I am lead to believe. Our rulers constantly remind us that these days we have a steady supply of food, and that most settlements now boast their own medical center, albeit with unqualified medics and very few drugs or medicines. New laws limiting a serf’s work hours to only sixty hours a week mean that we have more leisure time. None of this existed until as recently as eight years ago. I can remember the days when my family went without meals, and my parents’ reliance on dubious folklore remedies for dealing with ailments.The strictures of modern day serfdom prohibit those living in the settlements from obtaining jobs in the central city without compensation for ‘loss of future labor’ being paid to their local overlord. For young people, where 'future labor’ may represent forty or more years of service, the cost of compensation for a lifetime of freedom is well beyond the means of a young serf. Many must opt for purchasing their freedom for a limited time in the rarely-achieved hope of earning enough in the city to purchase an extension of time.Those seeking permanent freedom usually take an indirect route towards achieving their goal. One such route is to undergo one of the quarterly assessments and authentication conducted by the Bureau of Ancillary Services. The Bureau’s authentication process ensures that the never-ending demands for young workers in the city are satisfied. Success in the Argonaut, as the assessment and authentication process is commonly called, means freedom from serfdom; although that freedom invariably comes at the price of a large debt to be repaid. The Bureau will lend the successful serf the amount of compensation due to the serf’s overlord, enabling a city work permit to be issued. However, even attending one of the quarterly assessments can be a costly affair. Firstly the serf must compensate his or her overlord for the three days absence from work, and secondly the serf is required to cover the cost of accommodation for the duration of assessment.Argon’s settlements are named after American presidents and European royal houses, reflecting the origins of most of the city’s population. Governance of Argon, and hence its settlements, is by a military junta who appoint all the administration and military officers, including each settlement’s leader. The junta also creates and enforces the laws which control our daily life. Anybody who voices dissent against the junta’s reign is rapidly and severely punished without any right to a trial. Even those living in the city are careful about what they say. Rumors says that the worst offenders are executed, but none of our heavily censored news-feeds make reference to anyone suffering that fate. Minor offences usually result in longer work hours, or the loss of access to the few recreational facilities.But enough about my world, it is time to tell you of my place in it. My name is Jasmine, and Buchanan settlement has been my home for all of my nineteen years. I’ve worked in one of the local recycling plants ever since I left school at eight years old. For a decade I have had a dream of buying my freedom so that I can work inside Argon’s central city. Now I have a chance. I am one of those who will be assessed at the next Argonaut, thanks to an anonymous benefactor who has sponsored my application.For better or worse, I have chosen my next step. My arrival at the old boarding school that houses the Bureau of Ancillary Services assessment center is the gateway to my future.Chapter 2: The lacy nightie.It’s nearly midnight and I can’t get to sleep. The first session of the Argonaut starts in nine hours. I still can’t get over my sponsor’s generous offer that has allowed me to attend. I realize that the very late arrival of the sponsor’s offer confirms that I’m a last minute substitute. Given my father’s blemished political record, I suspect my anonymous sponsor is scraping the bottom of the barrel in choosing me. But he or she did, and that has enabled me to be here at the old boarding school which serves as the headquarters of the Bureau of Ancillary Services. The original school closed decades ago when Argon’s junta decided to close the last remaining links with the decaying towns and cities beyond the borders of Argon’s self-proclaimed territory, effectively isolating us from the world. There was no need for schools with boarding facilities after that.Every three months, Argon’s Bureau of Ancillary Services accepts the applications of exactly fifty settlement adults between the ages of eighteen and twenty-seven. Successful applicants become contestants in the Argonaut, which consists of a series of interviews and tests supervised by an assessment panel. Some of the interviews are broadcast on the news-feeds throughout Argon and its settlements, with the intention of attracting future employers for the hopeful contestants should they secure a city work permit. The number of permits available each quarter is a closely guarded secret. Consequently, passing all the tests doesn’t automatically result in a contestant being granted a permit. And obtaining a permit doesn’t guarantee a good job. Not all city jobs are better than those in the settlements, but that doesn’t stop the competitiveness for the permits. That competitiveness often includes a range of sabotage and underhand tricks targeting the weaker contestants.These days the Argonaut doesn’t automatically favor the handful of contestants who have served a ten-year term in the military, and who are now into their twenties. The leaders of some settlements still prefer the old tradition of favoring the applications of those who have served in the military. Former soldiers are often trained to do well in the Argonaut’s tests. A contestant’s success can give a boost to their own settlement’s ranking in the eyes of the junta; a ranking that determines the priority given to the funding of a settlement’s civic improvements.It’s no secret which contestants were formerly in the military. Knowledge of their status is intended to intimidate the other contestants. Their names and reputations are etched in every other contestant’s mind; Paulo and Chloe from Eisenhower, Heidi from Grant, and Mansel from Bourbon. All contestants have the support of volunteer helpers who do everything from offering advice to helping solve minor problems. These helpers are an eclectic selection of oddballs and do-gooders from among the city’s bored residents. Not all of them are model Argon citizens, and three of the female contestants have already complained about being groped by one of the helpers.I give up trying to sleep, and I decide to take a walk around the old school building housing the fifty contestants for the current Argonaut. I slip my short dressing gown over my even shorter nightie. Normally I sleep naked, but I had the sense to borrow a nightie and gown from my twelve-year-old sister. I’m not a blushing maiden, but sleeping naked in a mixed gender dormitory is asking for trouble.The eight dormitories are designed to accommodate six people in each. Seven are single-sex dormitories. However, the late applicants, like me, must put up with eight of us crammed into the room, which now houses three male and five female contestants. Everywhere is quiet as I head towards the communal dining area. Everyone else must have had no trouble in falling asleep. In Harper’s case that probably has more to do with the quantity of alcohol he consumed during the evening meal, since he’s asleep on the dining room floor. Suddenly a movement catches my eye. I duck behind a door in case it is Patrick. He also comes from Buchanan, and he’s the closest person I have to a friend in this place. I’m not certain I want him seeing me dressed like this. I watch the figure at the other end of the dormitory for a few moments before realizing it is one of the robots that clean up after us. They try to be invisible, hovering just out of sight unless one is needed to clean up after us. The robot is using our absence to finish clearing away the empty glasses and plates from our evening meal.The robot leaves the room through a side door. It dawns on me that there must be a service corridor somewhere in this rambling jumble of rooms to enable the robots to come and go. The main door to this wing of the old school is locked and monitored at this time of night. The sophisticated sensors provide security against intruders, and ensure the contestants don’t do anything underhand before the assessment begins. I feel the urge to explore.I go through the door the robot used and find myself in a corridor with a relatively new door at the far end. Undoubtedly the robot is going to the kitchen and I follow it at a discreet distance. I follow the robot through the end door and I see that it opens onto a corridor crossing at right angles to the one I’ve just travelled. More doors are visible along the corridor, but I notice that each has one of the security pads used to unlock the door. My adventure is going to be short lived if all of the doors need a security code to operate them. I head in the opposite direction to the kitchens and try one of the doors at the end of the corridor. It’s unlocked. A set of rickety wooden stairs are on the other side of the door and I descend to the level where the recreation and practice rooms are located. The door at the bottom of the stairs opens and I tentatively peek out in case anyone is around. Everything seems quiet.I’m now in the main corridor on this level, not far from where the main stairs are located. I know my way to the recreation rooms, but not what lies behind the many other doors branching off the main corridor.The lack of security guards concerns me for a moment before I recall that everywhere is monitored by cameras. My little adventure is probably already being observed by the security guards in a control room somewhere. Any minute now I can expect to hear the sound of stomping feet and being faced with a squad of burly guards wanting to know what I’m doing. My best plan is to ignore the cameras and just walk as though I’ve every right to be here. Sneaking about will just raise suspicion that I’m up to no good. Fortunately my dressing gown is a similar color to the robots, so an inattentive guard may mistake me for a robot.I walk along the corridor not daring to breathe in case I trigger an alarm, or my actions make the security guards decide to investigate. I haven’t thought about where I’m going other than I don’t really want to go into the games rooms. A door off the main corridor is ajar and on impulse I go through it into another short corridor with a door at the end. This part of the building is much newer than the area behind me. There’s plenty of light streaming through the window in the door. The lighting has been dimmed everywhere else, but the room on the other side of this door is fully lit.The window in the door is misted, and the smell of chemicals makes me think that it’s a laundry. I open the door and peek inside. Not a laundry. It’s a large swimming pool. Much larger than anything Buchanan settlement can boast. The room is warm and the water looks inviting. At least to someone like me who can swim. I walk around the pool to check that nobody is about. I come across some racks with towels but there are no swimming suits. Nobody said to bring a swimming suit, so I must either forgo a swim, or swim naked.The water looks enticing, but I’m also aware that the pool, like everywhere else, will be monitored by cameras. I can see at least three cameras around the walls. What I can’t understand is why I’ve not been accosted by security guards. Even the dopiest guard must surely have realized by now that I’m not a robot. But I push my concerns about that to one side and prepare to enter the water. I slip off my dressing gown and dive into the water wearing my short nightie. I’m not brash enough to strip myself naked in front of whoever is monitoring the cameras. That’s something I quickly regret. The way my wet nightie is clinging to me I can see that I’m leaving very little to the imagination.I swim a couple of lengths of the pool before I realize that I have company. Someone else has entered the water. I make a sudden cry of alarm. Who is it? I’m in two minds whether to leave the water and make a hasty exit, or to stand my ground. The daunting prospect of running around the corridors wearing nothing but a wet translucent nightie settles my dilemma. I turn to face whoever is here with me.The swimmer heads in my direction. As the distance between us shortens I realize the swimmer is male and that he has no clothes on. Suddenly running around the complex in a wet nightie doesn’t seem such a silly idea any more. My indecision causes me to waste my only chance of leaving the pool without confronting him.The swimmer comes directly for me. He stops a few meters from me and treads water.“I didn’t think any of the other contestants knew about this place, nor be brave enough to take a midnight swim,” he says.Chapter 3: Swimming with a naked girl.“We don’t need to fight,” replies Paulo. “There’s time for that soon enough. I intend to enjoy my swim and then go to bed. I suggest you do the same. Or can’t you sleep? You wouldn’t be the first contestant to be nervous and suffer sleepless nights before the Argonaut.”“I’m not nervous,” I say defiantly, mostly for my own benefit. “I just can’t get used to sleeping on a soft bed.”“Yeah, whatever,” he replies dismissively. “Well, in that case, you can race me to the other end of the pool and back.”“Why?” I ask.“Because it’s fun and I don’t often get the chance to swim with a naked girl. Are you normally so argumentative?”“I’m not naked. And I’m not arguing. I’m being; um; curious.”“Ha! You may as well be naked for all that is hidden by that flimsy thing you are wearing. You have a nice body. You shouldn’t be afraid to let people see it.”Paulo’s comments immediately cause me to feel awkward. He’s a rival and ex-military, so he’s a serious threat to my chances during the Argonaut. But my traitorous body would be happy to yield to his desires. I mustn’t let him see how much his comment has disturbed me, so I move into position for the race that he wants.“Are you ready? Go!” I call as I launch myself off in the direction of the far end.“Hey! Cheat!” he calls before taking off after me.I’ve never tried swimming in a race, but I soon see Paulo’s point. It is fun. I’m almost reach the far end before Paulo manages to draw close to me. He’s a strong swimmer but doesn’t have the elegant style that my father drummed into me. We turn only seconds apart and I try to increase my speed on the return leg. Half way down the pool I realize that Paulo’s strength is starting to tell, and that I’m struggling to keep my lead. Moments later we are level and I draw on my last reserves to regain the lead. We reach the end of the pool neck and neck. I don’t think either of us can tell who touched the end first.We are both breathing heavily as we climb out of the pool and collapse on the floor. It is only then that I realize that we are virtually touching. I’m lying next to naked young man. That’s something I’ve only ever done in my wildest fantasies. My limited sexual experiences to date have involved remarkably little nudity. Fortunately Paulo seems too preoccupied in regaining his breath to notice my discomfort. I should move away before he recovers, but something inside me makes me stay where I am.“Is that the best your settlement’s wonderful training regime can teach you?” I say.“Swimming isn’t an essential skill, even in the military. The Argonaut tests rarely require the need to swim beyond having sufficient skill to avoid drowning. Where did you learn to swim like that? I didn’t think there would be much call for swimming in the industrial settlements.”“There isn’t, but my parents always hoped I would gain a permit to work in the city. It’s impossible to know what skills might be required if I land a job in the city. I suppose my father thought it useful for me to learn to swim well.”Paulo turns towards me. As hard as I try not to look below his waist, my eyes are drawn like a magnet. I notice he is looking at me in a way that makes me both excited and uncomfortable. I look into his eyes and immediately sink into their depths. I don’t even notice when he moves closer so our bodies are actually touching. The kiss that follows seems so natural my body responds by itself.“We shouldn’t be doing this,” I say with half-hearted sincerity when we break for air.“Why not?” is his reply.“Because we are rivals. We will be expected to try and outsmart each other tomorrow.”“And does doing this make any difference? This is now. The assessments are later.”“I don’t know if I can separate the two.”“Not all contestants are selfish machines. Chloe may fit the classic win-at-all-costs profile, but unlike her I don’t enjoy sabotaging another contestant’s chances.”“But your training will still make you sabotage that person’s chances regardless of how you feel now. And that person could be me.”“I know. I won’t like doing that to a fellow contestant, but I’ll do it if necessary. It would be unfortunate if you and I come face to face in one of the tests. But you are right, my training will help me make the right choice.”“I’m sure I shall be a lot happier knowing how cut up you are as you sabotage my efforts,” I say with as much sarcasm as I can manage.“Yes, I may even shed a tear,” he replies with equal sarcasm as he leans towards me and shares a second kiss with me.My mind and body are confused. Even fully clothed I’ve never been this intimate with anyone before. My near nakedness is sending all the wrong signals to both of us. I should stop and walk out of here, but as crazy as it sounds there is no way I want to do that.Our third kiss is accompanied by roaming hands. His on my yielding torso and mine onto the rock hard shaft pushing against my thighs, and seeking entrance to the throbbing slit between my legs.“Do you think the security cameras in this room are switched off?” I ask before Paulo can claim the prize his cock seeks.“No. I’m fairly sure we are being watched.”“Then why haven’t the security guards frog marched us back to our dormitories?”“We aren’t trying to kill each other so there’s no need for them to intervene. Anyway, if they do then they’ll miss all the fun? Can you imagine how boring it must be to watch banks of screens for hours, with absolutely nothing happening to break the monotony. We are livening up their night for them. For all we know they could be selling tickets to watch the main event.”“That’s disgusting. Anyway, what main event? I hope you aren’t implying that we are going any further with this liaison.”“I’m not implying anything.”Chapter 4: The hunter’s proposition.“And what makes you think I want there to be a main event?” I say.“Because you do,” says Paulo. “Otherwise you would have dressed more modestly before you left your dormitory. And you wouldn’t have stayed in here when you saw me in the water with you. Nor would you have let me lie close to you like this.”“I don’t have to explain myself to you. If I choose to say 'no’, then that is my right. Or did you have something more forceful in mind? Something more in keeping with your special training.”“Nonsense! Have I in any way hurt you while we have been here? As far as I can tell you’ve so far enjoyed my company.”I suddenly feel awkward and uncomfortable. My own feelings are strange to me and causing some confusion. Paulo is right. I have enjoyed his company, and I have no complaints about his behavior so far; other than his suggestion that this has all been the appetizer, and that the main course is about to follow.His remarks have hit home more than I’m willing to admit. He’s right. I chose not to put on more clothes, because I felt an urge to free my sexuality from its everyday constraints. And the more daring I’ve been tonight, the more alive my body has felt. Even now the prospect of allowing Paulo to perform the most intimate acts with me is sending a thrill through my body. But common sense is telling me to stop. And I’m the sort of person who pays a lot of attention to common sense; well, most of the time.“I’m sorry,” I say. “Your behavior so far doesn’t deserve my last remark. But I still have the right to say 'no’.”“And I’ll respect your decision. But can I remind you that is well past midnight and we might not have the opportunity another time.”“Where I come from, it is customary to seduce a girl before leaping on her,” I say, not really knowing if that statement is true.“Really? You would surrender yourself to someone who told you your eyes are beautiful, that your body is just perfect, and your choice of clothes is divine? Surely you are far too level headed to fall for that sort of line.”“Hmmm; Well you aren’t persuading me at the moment.”“Hah! You’re perfect! I love a woman who plays hard to get. The chase is just as much fun as the end result.”“You’re talking from experience, I presume?” I retort.“You are an interesting challenge! I notice that despite your reluctance, you haven’t ruled out accepting my suggestion.”“You’re stalling. As you said, it is getting late and as much as I’ve enjoyed our time together, we both have a busy schedule tomorrow.”“I agree. If I can’t make you say 'yes’ within five minutes then I shall concede defeat and we shall go back to our dormitories.”He looks at me and I nod in agreement.“So, what really excites a girl from Buchanan?” he muses to himself. “We can’t be that different. Your settlement has industrial factories and my last ten years have been in the military. Both require heavy manual labor. Sweating bodies and dirt everywhere. Which explains why you aren’t swooning at the sight of my bare chest. There are girls who almost faint at the sight; but not you. Despite what you said, I don’t think sweet-talking you is going to make you want to say 'yes’. So, that leaves a more physical approach. I think you are the type who likes to be hunted. Not the fake chases and mock play about being captured and becoming a helpless victim of a man’s wicked desires. No, I think you really want a man to prove to you he is able to outsmart you and is therefore worthy of your body.”“What a bizarre idea,” I say, trying hard to sound casual. My already heightened senses are being pushed into overdrive. I’ve never thought about what attracts me sexually, but Paulo’s comments are setting me alight with desire. “How are you going to prove your theory?”“I shall give you a thirty second start. If I can’t find you within four minutes then I shall return to my bed a sorry man. But if I corner you, then you are mine.”“I thought I had the right to say 'no’,” I say.“And you do. It will only take you ten seconds to reach the door to the main corridor, and from there you are free to return to your dormitory. I shall not attempt to stop you. You have twenty five seconds left.”I leap up and bolt for the side rooms holding the towels. There are other rooms on the far side. Saunas and hot pools. All ready for use, but currently devoid of people.There is a lack of good hiding places, but I only need to stay free for four minutes. It will take Paulo most of that time to check all these rooms. I settle for a room with several sunken hot tubs in the middle and clothes lockers around the walls. Some lockers are just large enough for me to hide inside. It isn’t until I’m hidden that I realize that by staying in these rooms I have made a major decision. If Paulo finds me then I’ve promised him that he can fuck me.One minute passes; then another. I can’t hear anything. My hiding place offers only a limited view of the hot tubs. I begin to wonder if Paulo is actually looking for me. How embarrassing it would be if he simply left for his dormitory, leaving the security guards monitoring us to laugh at my folly. But I saw the look in Paulo’s eyes. He definitely had the look of a wolf eager to devour a lamb. A lamb called Jasmine.The three minute mark must have passed before I hear something in the adjacent room. The sound of doors being opened and closed. He must be searching the lockers in that room. The speed at which he is doing it suggests he knows he is running out of time. He won’t have time to search the lockers in this room. I’ve won!Or have I?Chapter 5: Are we done talking?Although I don’t have a watch, I know that Paulo’s time is definitely running out. Paulo must know that too. I do something I would never have thought myself capable of doing in these circumstances; I leave my hiding place.Paulo bursts into the room with the hot tubs with what can only be seconds of his four minute deadline remaining. He stands by the door in shock.“What kept you?” I say. “Your four minutes are nearly up. You almost missed enjoying a treat. This water is divine. Not too hot and not too cold.”Paulo recovers from his shock and joins me in the tub. The tub is only two meters in diameter so we are fairly close together as soon as he enters the water. But he doesn’t immediately touch me as I had expected. He waits on the opposite side of the tub as though waiting for permission to approach me.“You allowed me to find you when you could have easily hidden in one of these lockers,” says Paulo. “What does that mean?”“What would you like it to mean?” I say.“I would like it to mean that you have proved your cleverness and that you are now ready to continue where we left off before.”“Are you sure you aren’t too tired and wish to go to bed?” I tease.“I think I could manage to stay awake all night given the right incentive. How about you?”“The same. Are we done talking?”“I thought women like to talk,” he says as he wraps me in his arms.“There’s a time and a place for everything. And talking isn’t what I need right now.”He kisses me and I melt into his arms. My hands reach down to massage his already solid cock.Just at that moment the lights go out and we are plunged into pitch darkness. But I don’t care. Paulo’s arms are wrapped around me and I simply don’t care.Less than a minute later the emergency lighting activates and the room changes from pitch black to something akin to a moonlit night.“Stay where you are and don’t move,” comes a man’s voice over a hidden speaker.The warm glow flowing through my entire body makes me wonder why the man would think I would wish to move from this position.“I think we are about to be arrested or something,” whispers Paulo into my ear.I don’t care. I just want to hold Paulo like this and feel him pressed against me. The normal lighting comes back on and we break our hold on each other to look around us. I take the opportunity to retrieve my nightie which is floating in the water. I don’t recall whether it was Paulo or me who removed it during our brief interlude. I put it back on with some difficulty. The wet fabric clinging to me in a way it didn’t seem to do just moments before.Three security guards enter our room accompanied by a man with enough gold braid on his uniform to indicate that he’s somebody important.“This is most irregular. Most irregular,” grumbles the man. “These facilities are closed for the duration of the Argonaut. I don’t know how you gained entry to this building, but you must leave. It is fortunate you didn’t enter the old school. We would have had to arrest you if you went up there. Now, make yourselves decent and I’ll escort you to the door.”I look at Paulo and realize that he is as baffled as I am at what is going on. As Paulo and I fetch some towels to dry ourselves it dawns on me that these security guards think we are central city residents who have found a way into this recreation center. They don’t know we are Argonaut contestants, and have sneaked down here from our respective dormitory.Neither Paulo nor I have clothes, unless you count my flimsy wet nightie. I can’t remember where I left my dressing gown. Paulo presumably arrived wearing something, but he doesn’t seem inclined to go and fetch it. We both wrap towels around us and knot them to preserve a modicum of decency. The security officer signals for us to follow him. We meekly follow him like two naughty children.“I know the festivities during the Argonaut are a time for high spirits, but you mustn’t enter a secure area like this,” lectures the man. “Now go home before you get into more trouble.”With that brief lecture over, we are escorted out of a side door to the large plaza outside. The door is closed firmly behind us. The plaza is just outside the domed city, between the dome support wall and the huge drainage channels that funnel storm water away from the inhabited areas. Consequently this area is accessible to both city residents and the serfs of the settlements. However, the distance to the nearest settlement means that few serfs will bother travelling here for pleasure.“You heard the man. We must go home,” says Paulo.“In case you haven’t noticed, we have no clothes, no money, and it’s a long walk home,” I say. “Besides, if we go missing we are automatically disqualified from the Argonaut.”“That’s true,” replies Paulo. “But we won’t be missed until morning. We have at least seven hours to ourselves. We can do a lot in seven hours.”“Yes. We could look at the statues over there, and; ”I almost break into laughter at Paulo’s reaction to my suggestion. He clearly has something quite different in mind and, in truth, so do I. I take his hand and walk along the wide boulevard that runs next to the recreation center and the old boarding school next door. I soon realize that this area is what passes for an entertainment zone, but the various places are closing for the night.The boulevard is busy. Mainly with young couples like us enjoying each other’s company. In their case, they are returning towards their homes under the domed part of the city. Having worked myself up into deciding tonight is going to be my big night, I feel slightly disappointed that we can’t find somewhere to go.“Can you climb?” asks Paulo, pointing to a wide balcony above a café which has already closed for the night. Climbing the wall to reach the balcony shouldn’t be too difficult.“Yes. Can you?” I reply already heading towards a promising looking place on the side wall.Paulo follows me as I make light work of climbing the fixtures adorning the café wall. Despite his military training, Paulo doesn’t find it quite so easy. Something I must remember when the Argonaut starts. We scramble onto the balcony and see it is laid out like a terrace with tables and chairs for the café customers. This place will be perfect.Chapter 6: Games in the night.I find a large sofa with a low table in front of it. I clear away the glasses and plates the last occupants of this area left behind. The owners of the café clearly intends to clear up in the morning.“Hey, look what I found,” says Paulo. “A half-finished bottle of wine. I’ll fetch some glasses.”It won’t be real wine, but I’m sure the technicians of the central city can produce something akin to the real thing. I make myself comfortable. Even outside the dome, the ambient temperature is several degrees warmer than in Buchanan; a product of the hot exhaust air pumped out of the city. The huge domes act like greenhouses, and the air inside must be continually vented to regulate the temperature.I lie back and look at the starlit sky. It’s all very romantic, which helps put me back in the mood for what I know is about to happen. When we were in the hot pool we thought we were pressed for time and needed to rush things. Here we are alone and unlikely to be disturbed before morning.Paulo returns with two glasses and a bottle of what I presume is pseudo-wine. I’ve never drunk wine before, real or fake. It isn’t the sort of luxury anybody in Buchanan can afford. Paulo pours some of the wine into the two glasses. He samples some wine before passing my glass to me.“Need to check the wine hasn’t gone off,” he says when he sees my puzzled look. I shrug in response. Either he is showing off, or drinking Argon wine is a far more common event in the military than I thought.“Ah! A Chardonnay, if I’m not mistaken,” he says has he sniffs the wine and takes another sip.“Are you an expert on wine?” I ask incredulously. “Or are you just making that up?”“Neither. That’s what is written on the label,” he laughs.I join in his laughter. His playfulness is helping me relax and I’m no longer nervous about what is going to happen. By the time we’ve finished the wine we are sat side by side on the sofa. He puts his hands on me. Mine echo his movements. The real world seems a million miles away. I can’t tell whether it is the effects of the wine or Paulo’s attentions which are causing me to think only of this moment and the intense pleasure I’m feeling as our limbs entwine.Then he starts kissing me. At this point I lose control of myself and crave for more of what he is doing. I’ve no experience at this level of intimacy, and only the vaguest idea of what I’m supposed to do. Knowledge gained from teenage gossip in the factory, which is probably completely wrong. But I needn’t have worried. Somehow my body seems to know what to do by instinct. When I’m not doing something quite right, Paulo quietly guides me towards the right action. Our bodies respond as though we are one.Then, before I realize it, he is on top of me. I feel that I’m at his complete mercy. That should alarm me and make me struggle, but all I want to do is to surrender myself to his desires. I’m rewarded with the most sensational feeling I can imagine. Heavy petting is as far as I’ve gone before. Paulo’s actions make it clear that we are going well beyond that tonight. I had been told there would be some pain involved, but I’m too far gone into the stratosphere of my arousal to notice. Paulo senses my submission and rewards me with a gentle and unhurried treat. His cock pushes its way into my moist cunt and I wrap my legs around his thighs to hold him in position.“Careful. I don’t want to get pregnant,” I say in a brief moment of lucidity.If he hears me he doesn’t alter his actions in any way. I’m too light-headed to force the issue. It’s a problem for another day.Finally Paulo and I are spent. Our emotions can only remain at fever pitch for so long. We eventually return to the real world. I’ve no idea how long I’ve been away. We lie in each other's arms for a while regaining our breath.“That wasn’t bad for a first timer,” says Paulo.“More of your experience talking, I suppose?” I reply, not certain whether to feel complemented or insulted.“You’re not my first, if that’s what you mean. There are benefits to being chosen as a contestant long before the Argonaut starts. Good performance in training is rewarded by a bevy of young women eager to be fucked by a contestant. But I meant what I said. I could tell that you were inexperienced, but you let go of your inhibitions. Few young women can do that the first time.”“Well I’m not sure we will be in a position for there to be a second time. Things get very competitive once the Argonaut starts.”“Who knows. Perhaps we will come face to face in one of the tests and you can throw yourself at my mercy and beg me to let you win in exchange for a repeat of just now.”“In your dreams! I was thinking more of the other way round. Would you like to be my plaything, Paulo?” I tease.“Now who is dreaming? You are bold, and you control your fears well. I can see you are someone I must regard as a serious rival. My chances of achieving a permit would be much better had you not been accepted as a contestant.”The afterglow of our coupling is still flowing through me, making me feel mellow. The ambient temperature is dropping now that the local businesses are closed for tonight. I snuggle closer to Paulo, both for warmth and to try and renew the strange and wonderful feelings I’ve experienced tonight. He gently caresses me and I start feeling aroused again. Surely he doesn’t have the energy for another round of sex. Tiredness is starting to overtake me, and I can’t believe it isn’t affecting Paulo as well. But his caresses are divine. I don’t want them to stop. He gently runs his fingers up and down my spine and sends more waves of pleasure coursing through me. I respond in kind and despite my obvious inexperience my efforts are having a visible effect on him.“I wish we could stay here like this forever,” I say. “But we both know we must return to our dormitories before dawn. If we don’t turn up for roll-call, our absence will be noticed by the officials and we’ll be disqualified from the Argonaut. Despite the security officer’s error in throwing us out of the center, I doubt we will be shown any mercy if we miss roll-call.”“Yes, I know,” replies Paulo, deep in thought. “If only there was another way. Thanks for tonight. I can honestly say I really enjoyed it, and in other circumstances I would hope for many more. I’m going to be selfish and keep your nightie as a trophy to remind me of tonight.”I was planning on doing the same thing, but I don’t refuse his request. “As long as I can have a trophy in return,” I reply.“Agreed. I seem to be out of suitable offerings at the moment. Let me know tomorrow what you would like.”I feel so comfortable that I easily forget that Paulo and I are soon to face each other as rivals during the Argonaut. Either Paulo is a superb actor or his feelings mirror mine. Eventually tiredness overcomes me. The warmth of Paulo’s embrace, and the after effects of the wine and our coupling, causes me to doze off despite my nakedness.It must be an hour or so later when I wake. I’m disoriented at first, and wonder what has woken me. However, I soon realize it is the absence of Paulo’s warmth that has caused me to wake. I sit up to see where he has gone, but there’s no sign of him.However, Paulo’s absence isn’t my main problem. As I move I realize there is a length of chain locked around my ankle, the other end of which tethers me to a heavy table.To be continued in part 2, by Rachael Jane for Literotica.

Billy Sinkford, Vice President of Echos Communications, discusses the genesis of the MADE show and its impact on the handmade bike community. He shares his experience as a former bike messenger and how it led him to work in the urban cycling industry. Billy also highlights the importance of brand representation and storytelling in the cycling industry. He provides insights into the success of the first MADE show and gives a preview of what to expect in the upcoming shows in Portland and Melbourne. Don't miss this exciting conversation about the future of the handmade bike community. Episode Sponsor: AG1 MADE Bicycle Show  Support the Podcast Join The Ridership  Automated Transcription, please excuse the typos: [00:00:00] Craig Dalton: Hello, and welcome to the gravel ride podcast, where we go deep on the sport of gravel cycling through in-depth interviews with product designers, event organizers and athletes. Who are pioneering the sport I'm your host, Craig Dalton, a lifelong cyclist who discovered gravel cycling back in 2016 and made all the mistakes you don't need to make. I approach each episode as a beginner down, unlock all the knowledge you need to become a great gravel cyclist. [00:00:29] Craig Dalton (host): This week on the show. I welcome Billy. Sinford from the maid bicycle show in Portland, Oregon. You may recall if you're a listener from last year that I attended the show. In 2023 and had dozens of interviews with fantastic frame builders from around the country. I super enjoyed the show, the experience, the overall vibe of the show. So I was thrilled to get some communication from echos communications that the show is on. Again for 2024, I wanted to get a little bit of the backstory and inspiration for the show. And learn some secrets about the upcoming show in 2024. Little did I know at the end of this episode, I was going to learn about yet another exciting new development. I'll leave you with that. And we'll wait till the end, until we find out that secret from Billy. But before we get started, I do need to thank this week. Sponsor a G one. Taking care of your health. Isn't always easy, but it should at least be simple. That's why for me, for the last decade, I've been drinking age one every day, no exceptions. It's just one scoop mixed in water once a day, every day. And it makes me feel energized and ready to take on the day. That's because each serving of AIG one delivers my daily dose of vitamins minerals and pre and probiotics and more, it's a powerful, healthy habit that also is powerfully simple. Okay, let me go back a decade and explain why. became an essential part of my daily routine. I come to recognize that nutritionally, I just wasn't covering my bases with my diets. I was often cutting corners and just not getting the nutrients and vitamins I was looking for. I started thinking about taking a multivitamin or multiple multivitamins. And that didn't drive with me as well. I knew I wasn't going to be able to maintain consistency. Without something simple in my life. But with ag one, I discovered that it's a simple powder that's mixed with water. Can do it very quickly. And it has everything and more than I was looking for. So I introduced into my life and I haven't gone back. Over a decade, which is pretty incredible for a product like this. So if there's one product I had to recommend to elevate your health that's ag one. And that's why I've partnered with them for so long. I think they've been part of the show for over three years now. So, if you want to take ownership of your health, start with a G one. Tri AIG one and get a free one-year supply of vitamin D plus K2. And five free AIG one travel packs with your first purchase. Exclusively at drink, AIG one.com/the gravel ride. That's drink AIG one.com/the gravel ride to check it out today. Without behind us, let's jump right into my conversation with Billy. [00:03:24] Craig Dalton (host): Billy, welcome to the show. [00:03:25] Billy Sinkford: Thank you for having me, Craig. It's a pleasure to be here. [00:03:29] Craig Dalton (host): I know it's a busy week for you guys at MADE, so I appreciate you making the time and I'm excited to kind of just talk about the show. I did a bunch of episodes and Certainly had a bunch of conversations with frame builders during my visit to made in 2023. So I'm excited to just talk about the plans for 2024, but to set the stage for the conversation, we always like to kind of roll back a little bit and just understand, how did you develop a passion for the bike? Did you grow up riding? So why don't you start off by just letting us know where you grew up and how you discovered the bike and how that journey ultimately took you to kind of being in the industry as a professional. [00:04:10] Billy Sinkford: Well, first off, thanks for coming to MAID in 2023. It was awesome to have you and love the videos that you put out surrounding it. And we're stoked for 2024. We'll get, we'll get there though. I was a bike messenger in Boston in the late 90s and early 2000s. Uh, that was my first job working on the bike, uh, all day, uh, rain or snow, uh, in Boston, and did that, uh, for quite some time. Eventually ended up moving to San Francisco, uh, where I also was a, a bike messenger after a brief stint, uh, in divinity school, uh, which I decided was not, not for me. And from there, I started working with chrome industries and started working in kind of the urban cycling field of things. And, you know, for lack of a better term, I weaseled and worked my way into a job at chrome and. Um, my, the director of marketing at Chrome, Rob Reedy, who is my business partner at Echos. He's the CEO of Echos and I'm the VP, uh, gave me a chance and gave me a job and we worked together for years over at Chrome and eventually, uh, founded Echos Communications, which is a PR and marketing firm for, Active outdoors, uh, with a huge focus on cycling and I am fortunate enough to be the vice president of that and manage, uh, manage our cycling stuff that echoes communications. So that, that's [00:05:47] Craig Dalton (host): how I got there. I'm curious if, if you go back to those days as a courier, my experience with the courier community there, there were certainly some couriers who were bike racers, bike lovers, lovers of all things, bikes, and they discovered curry being a courier as a vocation that allowed them to, you know, work on their bike and stay fit. I've also heard from many of those same. Bike racer couriers that it's a horrible way to train because it's so hard on your body. So I'm just curious, were you, you know, part of that courier culture and the bike was a work mechanism and you fell in love with that, you know, the fixie kind of culture, or was there another thread of your passion for the bike that was mountain biking or road racing at the time? [00:06:35] Billy Sinkford: When I was in Boston, it was definitely about the culture and community, and the bike was just the tool that allowed for all of that to happen. When I moved out to San Francisco, the company that I worked for, Godspeed Courier, we had a race team. I was partially in charge of all the sponsorships and helped out a lot of the company. Definitely, uh, started wearing spandex and shaving our legs and going and doing local crits. And at that time road races, it was all road, uh, for me back then in the San Francisco Bay area and competed at all kinds of road races, uh, underneath the Godspeed courier banner. But I was, uh, I was a heavy dude. I still am a, I'm a big guy and I never, uh, I went out and just. Beat the crap out of everybody for the first 20 miles and then basically did an 80 mile bike ride by myself after the rest of the race, but I absolutely loved it. And it was a different kind of community and that definitely carried over. And, you know, I certainly by no means of. Kept up with it or pinned a number in a long time. I did last year for a minute, but, uh, definitely still enjoy being sometimes at the pointy end of the spear. Um, but yeah, messengering definitely brought me into that race culture. And then that carried over into my time in the industry, without a doubt. [00:07:55] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, obviously like Chrome had its parts of his origin from that culture and that vibe, that commuter, worker, the, you know, the well constructed bags and later the shoes and clothing that they brought into the mix as you kind of represented them and were kind of earning your chops on the business side of the bike industry. What were you learning in that time that you kind of took forward about how brands need to be represented to cyclists in order to grow and be relevant? [00:08:28] Billy Sinkford: Working in the urban cycling side of things first was, was really interesting and I think it relates to stuff in the handmade market. I think it relates to cycling as a whole because we, and sometimes think of ourselves as this huge entity, right? In reality, cycling is a niche sport and a niche hobby. Uh, so looking at it through that lens and then knowing that urban cycling was a niche within. That niche, uh, we called it don't Timbuktu it back in the day Timbuktu started stopping selling messenger bags and started selling travel luggage and briefcases for a, for a brief minute. And at Chrome, we just made sure we didn't Timbuktu it. And we were trying to stay. With the core sponsoring messenger races, making sure that we're not only sponsored them, but we're actively present at the races and engaging with the community and bringing a cool vibe and having a good time. And that I think has carried over into everything that we've done at echoes and hopefully what we've brought to, uh, the cycling community at large. And that's the present. Be there and and be a part of the community. [00:09:42] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, I think there's so much to obviously the storytelling of these brands that is so critical and how they resonate with fans and consumers of these products [00:09:55] Billy Sinkford: and it's really easy to lose it quite quickly. So, you know, having a good mission statement, understanding what your brand is, and actually standing by that and standing behind it, standing behind the community that you're, you're making products for, and hopefully. An active part of that community. Do those, you're, you're going to be on the side of right. Yeah, you [00:10:17] Craig Dalton (host): mentioned some of the work you do at echoes and just to set the stage for when we later talk about the maid show. Can you talk about some of the clients you've had the privilege of working with over the years? And then we'll get into what was the genesis behind the idea for [00:10:34] Billy Sinkford: made? Sure. We have had the privilege and pleasure and honest. I'd say honor of working with a lot of really amazing brands and folks within those brands. We started definitely on the urban cycling tip, but with that, we also, you know, feedback sports and, and mission workshop where our two first clients as an agency. Uh, we launched and ran the Levi's Commuter Program, uh, for the first three years of doing that and did all of the global or national events rather, uh, bike shops and community building stuff around that. And that was super fun and and rad to, to work along the Levi's, uh, Levi's crew and their team. Blackburn. Uh, we've worked with Greg Lamond. Uh, currently we've got an awesome, I guess, what's most relevant to the handmade community. Mosaic cycles, Argonaut cycles, Lowe, uh, we're currently, uh, and have been for quite some time working with Moots, Paul Components, Paul's a dear friend of mine, and we worked with him for several years, Abby Bike Tools, so everything, uh, we brought together. Bosch to market here in the United States a couple months before Shimano got got into the e bike game here Uh worked with a ton of e bike brands So companies large and small we are just started working with Campagnolo, uh, which is phenomenal and we're really thrilled about that we've had the pleasure of working with over 100 bike brands and i've gotten to Floyd's of Leadville and Floyd Landis, dear friend, and we managed all of the, uh, PR and some of the marketing for all of his CBD stuff and, uh, and his Floyd's 5 cannabis as well. So, gotten to work alongside people that I idolized when I was a messenger and had them become not only business associates, but folks that I call friends. Um, so it's been, it's been a wild journey and, uh, and we're still, we're still, I think, just getting started. [00:12:36] Craig Dalton (host): Amazing. We were talking a little bit offline about the North American Handmade Bike Show, and it sounds like you've had a relationship, understandably so, with the brands you tended to represent with that show for, for many years. Can you just talk about kind of your memories of that show and the place it kind of held in the industry [00:12:56] Billy Sinkford: for you? Oh, I loved nabs. Absolutely loved it. Uh, used to go just as a, you know, marketing and PR guy for the brands that we worked with. Uh, so always had 5 or 6 builders or brands, uh, on the show floor that we were working with. Uh, we did, uh, for a brief period of time for a little under 2 years, actually manage all the PR for the show itself when it was in Salt Lake City. Uh, obviously the show is not around anymore and, uh, Don and I. I've had a tumultuous relationship throughout the last, uh, 15 years for sure. Um, but. What Don did on the North American Handmade Bike Show, I think was phenomenal for the builder community and nothing that we're doing, I think, would be possible without the groundwork that went into that. Both from Don, so kudos to him, and then also the builder community for showing up and being present. You know, being willing to put their energy and effort into something that has turned out to be really, really great or for the builder community. So I think the show was great. It was sad to see it go, but it also gave us the opportunity to start made, which is something that 10. I mean, it's been 10 years plus, since we've been kind of talking about potentially. Helping put together a different version of a handmade bike show, a more modern version of it. And with Navs no longer taking place, the builder community asked us if we would step up to the plate and make it happen. We were fortunate enough to be able to. To, to do that, so it's been, it's been pretty cool. [00:14:39] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, you know, obviously, like, with NABS going away, there was this pent up demand and enthusiasm for the builders to get together. To your point, NABS was just such a great gathering of such a diverse group of artisan frame builders that was so different than any other bicycle show that was around at the time. When you started to see, like, NABS is not there. We are seeing this opportunity. We're going to take this mantle. It seems like it would be a daunting challenge to go from that idea to actually producing made. What was the decision making process? What did that look like for you? Or did you ask yourself what? If we can just get 20 brands to commit early, I feel like there's enough momentum that we can do this. I'm just curious to get into your, your mind and your colleagues minds about when was the go, no go decision and what was that process like? [00:15:38] Billy Sinkford: Well, COVID, we had wanted to do this before COVID. Luckily, we did not pull the trigger on, uh, any form of trade show prior to that, because that would have definitely changed things. Uh, You know, nobody could travel. Nobody would have been able to show up. Uh, the community support, uh, my partner, Rob and I, uh, spoke to a bunch of builders, spoke to a bunch of brands, uh, brands that support the builder community. So Chris Kang specifically being 1 of them who we also we do, uh, manage their PR and everybody. One after one, people said, yes, please do this. And yes, we'll help support it. And there weren't any nose and we just kept hearing. Yes. So we started looking at it from a logistic standpoint and realize that that we could pull this off and that it could be awesome. Originally, it was supposed to be entirely outside because of the pandemic. And we didn't know. What that was going to look like and we kind of wanted to safeguard the show and there's a very, very brief window in Portland where the weather is fantastic. Uh, and we, we've got it right now or made it was. Wildly unseasonably hot during the, uh, the first year of the show, but, uh, the venue that we found is phenomenal, uh, and old abandoned shipyard, uh, I mean, you, you saw it yourself. It's, it's perfect for the handmade, uh, market probably wouldn't work for. A bike show where track and specialized and giant wanted to show up and do their things. But for those that are actually working with their hands and, you know, making metal more metal, uh, super cool environment, uh, for them to be in and the venue lined up and after that, you know, that's it. I won't say that all the pieces magically fell together. There was a lot of hard work from the entire team that made behind the scenes, but, uh, it came together and it, you know, hard work and then the support of the builder community, uh, really brought it all together and year one was fantastic. I mean, I know you didn't get to go for the consumer days, but we very purposefully had time so that you were able to be there and spend time creating content and talking with builders and the. The builder community hadn't been together in, in years because of the pandemic and the lack of nabs even before that. So we carved out a little bit of extra time for that and that was super fun and got to take 200 builders, media and industry people and my favorite ride through Forest Park, uh, which was phenomenal. So it wasn't just a show itself. I think it was the entire experience of being in Portland together and it was really cool. [00:18:25] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, absolutely. We got the food trucks in the back parking lot. Everything was just a lot of fun and I totally agree. It was, you know, nobody had to feel awkward about the style of booth they created or what they were bringing because it wasn't this super polished, super dome of convention centers or anything like that that we saw at Interbike. It was really, it felt very native to the handmade bicycle community for [00:18:51] Billy Sinkford: sure. And I think this year, you know, a lot of the, I would say 90 percent of the exhibitors, you know, we made a few videos, we, folks understood what they were walking into, to an extent. But it's one thing to see it online and read about it. It's another thing to actually be in the venue. And now, most of the exhibitors are coming back for, for year two, and they all know what things look like. So I think it'll be really cool to see how people take the space. And make their little, their portion of it their own and work with it. So, I think year one was rad and there were some folks that had some killer, killer booth designs that you would never, ever in your wildest dreams see at Eurobike or Interbike or Sea Otter. Um, and I think it worked out great that we weren't entirely outside because looking at some Consumer facing shows, which are all awesome, but it's a sea of 10 by 10 and 10 by 20 pop up tents, and we encourage people to bring tents so they've got their branding, but some of the cooler booths were, you know, handmade from wood that people brought with them, and it was super neat to see not only the folks showing, It's amazing work that they're doing, uh, but then also, you know, building a booth out that reflects that was, was [00:20:04] Craig Dalton (host): really unique. A hundred percent. It's just sort of, you know, everybody in the handmade community is so creative and just to allow them to have that freedom to develop their own displays. Super cool to see. And super fun for me to see some of the frame builders that I hadn't seen in a while, but also like a whole, probably 30 percent of them I'd never heard of before. And it was just great. Having that opportunity to get their point of view to see their manufacturing techniques to see how, you know, they're taking, you know, in the instance of maybe frameworks taking aerospace tooling and machines that aren't always available to other artisans and using that because they have access to it to create just kind of a unique. Process for creating a bike. Super fascinating to talk to guys like that. There [00:20:53] Billy Sinkford: were, I have been, because we've been extremely deep and the handmade community for a long time, and I'm fortunate to call a lot of these folks, my friends, and prior to putting on made, I really thought that I had a pretty good grasp of what was going on in the handmade community and who was who. And one of the biggest things that we did with the show was offering subsidized space. Making sure that bike flights was helping with discounted shipping, uh, there was not like a large host hotel that people felt they needed to stay at. So the show became really accessible and a lot of the younger builders and builders that did not show up at nabs came and exhibited, uh, made. Also, some of the, the legends, my generation, not, not to totally date myself, but they're not spring chickens anymore. And some of them are hanging up the torch, uh, and, or don't want to stand on their feet for, for three days. Um, they've, they've passed that. So having a lot of the younger builders and new builders at the show and not having the new builder row be In the absolute back of the hall, like it was at NABs, I made sure we were dispersing, you know. That you, a new builder was directly next to an established builder, and unless you're super deep in the industry, there was no way to tell the difference. You walked up to pretty much anybody exhibiting, and you were there to hear their story and not, uh, I don't know. It was really, it was cool. And I had to not, I did not spend a lot of time looking at the bikes during the show, which was really, really hard. I love taking photographs. I spent a lot of time. Documenting bikes in my free time, and I purposefully didn't bring a camera to the show and tried not to ogle the work during the show. Late, late at night after everybody had gone home, that's when I did it. But, uh, it was just phenomenal craftsmanship throughout the entire haul. It was awesome. [00:23:04] Craig Dalton (host): I was there for obviously the media day and partway into the, the consumer day started, I think, around noon on the Friday and I was there till about two. So I just started to get the first wave of consumers. What was that like, you know, midday Saturday or whenever peak traffic was, if you were there as a consumer, [00:23:25] Billy Sinkford: there were a couple of minutes where we were, we were pushing the limits of what that all could do for sure. Uh, we have far more people than we expected. Uh, It was awesome. I mean, just so full, uh, unfortunately, extremely hot, and we had fans running like crazy and, uh, ran out to get every little bit of water that we could. Unfortunately, there were forest fires, uh, in other parts of Oregon and Washington, and all the water trucks and everything that we had kind of helped get together was unavailable. Um, but we made it work. Uh, there were A couple thousand consumers in that hall on Saturday. We had over 5, 000 people come through between when it opened to the public on Friday and when we closed the doors for tear down, uh, on Sunday. So for year one, that was unbelievable, but the energy was super high and people were there. They were talking with builders, looking at bikes. Uh, it was, it was really cool to watch. It was fun to have a quiet moment where. Media industry folks, we all got to kind of hug and high five and, and then it was when we opened the gates on Friday, it was, uh, it's a whole, whole nother, it was almost two shows in one, [00:24:39] Craig Dalton (host): quite frankly. Yeah, certainly a three day grind for those builders to. Talk to everybody and keep their energy high. [00:24:49] Billy Sinkford: And we're, we're actually changing the format of the show this year. So we had a full day and a half that was for media and industry to kind of catch up and we did a poll of all the builders and brands after the show, and it was honestly split about 50 50 as to whether or not people wanted that extra time. Or we would do just a half day of media hours before we opened to the public. For the second year of the show, we're going to. Give it a shot the other way and do, uh, Friday morning will be just media and industry and then again, we'll open to the public and do Saturday and Sunday, but that will make the show shorter and for a lot of these builders, regardless of what size or scale operation they are every day that they're not. At the shop, that's a bike that's not going out to the customer, and this is not a large frame, a large bicycle company, for that matter, where it's happening, no matter whether the director of marketing is on the floor, like you're there talking to the builder, and that person is not making a frame for a customer, so we're trying to be cognizant. Excuse me, cognizant of that and do everything that we're going to do, but keep it a little bit shorter so that they can get back to the shop and make sure that they're doing what they need to do for their customers. [00:26:06] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah. Do you have a sense on the consumer side in terms of where people were traveling in from if they were obviously Portland's host to such a great community? I'm sure there was tons of Portland locals who could drive in and enjoy the show. It was a first year show, but did you get a sense that people were flying in to [00:26:24] Billy Sinkford: experience this? From the moment we announced that we had folks from all over the world that said that they were coming. There were people from Japan, Australia, uh, Europe coming from all over a lot of folks from the East Coast. I think. California, Portland, I mean, we're dominant without a doubt because it's very easy for them to travel or much easier for them to travel to the show. But some of the first emails that we got after announcing the show were from fans of custom bikes and people that own custom bikes that wanted to come and they were going to make this their vacation from Japan, Australia. And it was. Really rad to have this be a global show, not only reflected in the builders that were there because we also had builders from all over the world. This was not just Portland and California builders. We had folks from the east coast and uh, from all over the place. And this year for 2024, uh, the roster of builders and brands that are attending reflects that even more deeply. Folks all coming back and then new folks coming from Australia and we've got folks coming from the west or east coast rather, that came in. Kind of peep the show a little bit to make sure that it was something that they wanted to come to and now, uh, now they're, they're coming out for year two and, and are going to be part of the show. [00:27:42] Craig Dalton (host): That's a good segue into anything you'd want to highlight for year two. Any changes? Are there going to be more, more booths, more people? What, what can we expect in 2024? [00:27:53] Billy Sinkford: Uh, more explosions, more people, hopefully no explosions. Uh, uh, I think we've got certainly more builders, more brands. We had to extend the floor plan. So there's going to be an outdoor area as well as the indoor area this year. More food carts, more coffee. We'll still have the beer garden over there. And we're going to make sure to pop a little shade on top of that so that people can sit out there, even if it is a little bit hot. Uh, but I think there just are gonna be a variety of builders from even farther, uh, across the world. And I'm, the coolest thing that I've seen is we made it a big point to have subsidized space and to invite builders from all over the place and to make sure that if they needed help financially. That we could still have them at the show. We wanted to make sure that the builder community was represented as a whole. And there are builders that showed up and took those subsidized spaces that are now getting 10 by 20s at the show. Uh, that are saying that it was so amazing that they want to come back and have an even larger presence. So that to me was the coolest part is the show and the model works there. You know. That, that really warmed my heart quite a bit to see that happen in several instances. [00:29:12] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, that says a lot. Tell us the dates of the Portland, Oregon show and where people can find out more information about it. [00:29:20] Billy Sinkford: Uh, yeah. Made. bike is our website. You don't need a dot com. We've got dot bike. So just made. bike and we will. Uh, make a lot of noise when we start selling, uh, consumer facing tickets for the show. Uh, the floor plan is ostensibly sold out and I still have a bit more of the wait list, uh, to work through. So, uh, if you're interested in, uh, being a part of the show, definitely get in touch sooner rather than later so we can see what we can do. Uh, but it'll be this summer, uh, August 23rd through 25th in Portland, Oregon at Zydell Yards, which is right on the Portland waterfront just outside of downtown. Uh, and you can find us on Instagram at made. bike as well. And is [00:30:06] Craig Dalton (host): there a risk that consumer tickets may sell out? Do people need to get on a mailing list or become aware pretty early in your [00:30:13] Billy Sinkford: process? Uh, it certainly can't hurt. Uh, we do have fire marshal limits that we're working within, uh, but I think we can very easily accommodate double the number of, uh, consumers that we have, uh, last year or so. We're hoping that people buy them in advance one because then it's less paper. It's a lot easier and we're able to get people through quicker, but we have not announced when we're going to start selling tickets to the public yet. We'll wait a little bit. Probably as the snow and rains start to start to thaw and stop falling here. We'll start thinking about it. [00:30:47] Craig Dalton (host): That makes sense. Well, everybody go over to made that bike and definitely get it on your radar for next year is a phenomenal fun show. So many beautiful bikes out there. And for those of you in an entirely different part of the world. I think we've got some breaking news. We can talk about now. Billy about another [00:31:05] Billy Sinkford: made show. Yeah, so this year MADE is expanding our footprint a little bit, and we are headed to Australia. Actually, we're headed to Australia before the main MADE show here in the United States. And it's going to be held in Melbourne. We've got a wonderful director of show, Andy White from Fixo, who is a longstanding friend of mine personally and of the agency as a whole. We've worked with him on a number of projects throughout the year, and he is extremely dedicated to documenting and being a part of the handmade culture in Australia. And we've already got commitments from an interest from Bomb Prova, Partington Wheels, the Lost Workshop, Delo Craft, and many, many more. And that is gonna be taking place June 28th and 29th, uh, at, uh, Darin, uh, verum, uh, just outside of Melbourne. And that also is coinciding with, uh, Andy's, uh, LAR. He has a large event called the the Melbourne. Uh, which takes place on the cobblestones, uh, in, in Melbourne, which I've never personally got a chance to, to witness. I've only witnessed it, uh, via the magic of the internet and I'm looking forward to going over and being a part of that event and then, uh, being present, uh, checking out the builder community in Australia. [00:32:33] Craig Dalton (host): Yeah, that's super exciting. I'll be curious to see if it's drawing builders from other parts of Asia, um, into that show and what a fascinating view you'll have to kind of go over and see that community and how it differs and how it's similar to what we have here in North America. [00:32:54] Billy Sinkford: I think there's some things that are universal to a degree, but. Every country is different. Uh, every builder is doing things differently. So, we're really looking forward to going over and hearing all the stories and seeing the work. I do think that there will be a larger draw. I think that. The USA show will always be the largest made show, uh, just because we're able to draw from, I think that we've got an awful lot of media here. We've got a really captive audience, uh, but Australia is quite far away as I am soon to find out on that plane ride. I've heard from people. Uh, so I think there are a lot of, a lot of builders that, you know, having a maid in Australia will give them a chance to get global exposure and connect with media and consumers in a way. Uh, That they haven't before and maybe there are some builders here from the United States that in 2025 decide that they're going to do both or maybe a builder here in the United States has already got great relationships with their customer base and the shops that they work with, uh, here and they want to go dip their toes into another country and see what's going on over there. And I think this will, this will give builders an opportunity to get even more exposure for [00:34:10] Craig Dalton (host): the work that they're doing. Yeah, it's super exciting and congratulations on the launch of that event. I can't wait to hear all about it. I can't wait to see you in Portland again this summer. Definitely one of my favorite shows that I attended as a podcaster and just overall enthusiast. So thanks for all your energy, Billy, you put into the industry as a whole and into the made show. [00:34:33] Billy Sinkford: It is my pleasure. Uh, we're really looking forward to MADE this year, uh, beyond looking forward to it. We're, we're thrilled. So it's hard to, hard to keep the excitement contained some days. I get to talk with so many cool people all the time. And it's going to be a rad year for MADE and a rad year for the handmade world as a whole. And thank you for taking the time to, to chat with me, Craig. Of course. My [00:34:55] Craig Dalton (host): pleasure. Cheers. Cheers. That's going to do it for this week's edition of the gravel ride podcast. Big, thanks to Billy for coming onto the show. Super excited about made 20, 24 in Portland and super excited for those of you down under in Australia. Perhaps my cousin Teebo to enjoy the made Australia experience in 2024. Also big, thanks to our friends at AIG one. Remember, check out, drink Agee. Dot com slash the gravel ride for those free travel packs and free supply of vitamin D plus K2. I hope you're doing well in 2024. And until next time. Here's to finding some dirt under your wheels. ​    

WE'RE BACK. The Extra Life/Spousal Birthday/Thanksgiving vortex is over and TPM is BACK. Well. Half. Half of TPM is back. If you don't have homemade ARGonaut whatever you have at home is fine -- You can OWN THIS EPISODE! Visit ThePodcastMINE.com to find out how! We assure you this isn't an NFT and won't destroy the environment. Also, if you want to support the show, you can visit ThePodcastMines.com to check out our Patreon. Is it stupid of us to have two URLs that are one letter apart? Probably. And if you're starting a podcast through Pinecast you can use our referral code (r-12f50f) to save 40% on the first 4 months of your plan. When they're out of the Mines, Riley is a Tabletop Game Designer whose games can be found at Linksmith Games. They have a lot of other shows including Never Believe It, If Not Us Then Who, and Champs in the Making. When Andrew's helmet comes off he wastes too much time on Twitter and streams a variety games over on Twitch. He's also the cohost of the ARGonauts Podcast, an Alternate Reality Game Deep Dive show. Our incredible show art was created by Alyssa and our Home Depot Style Beat was made by Matt!! Find out more at https://the-podcast-mines.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Argonaut Gold (TSX: AR) is marking a new milestone with the recent commissioning of its Magino Mine in northern Ontario, Canada. Projected to achieve commercial production of nearly 150,000 oz of gold in the third quarter of 2023, the mine is expected to become the company's largest and lowest-cost mine. Argonaut Gold is a Canada-based gold company focused on becoming a low-cost, mid-tier gold producer and maintains a portfolio of multi-stage assets in North America. President and CEO Richard Young talks to Global One Media to share insights and some of the latest news from the company.Argonaut Gold made its earliest successes in gold operations in Mexico. The maturity of these projects spurred the company to embark on other gold projects across America, including its most recent Magino Mine Project in Ontario and the Florida Canyon Project in Nevada. Richard sees plenty of reasons to be excited as the company delivered solid results from the second quarter, new team members, and upwards production figures.For more information, visit: https://www.argonautgold.com/Watch the full YouTube interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rufuRPrJclcAnd follow us to stay updated: https://www.youtube.com/@GlobalOneMedia?sub_confirmation=1

This week's episode is a compilation of chats with builders from the MADE handmade bike show in Portland, Or. This week included Rodriguez Cycles, Destroy Bicycles, Battaglin, Argonaut, Wren Sports, Velo Orange, Rizzo Cycles, WH Bradford, Speedvagen, Celilio Cycles, Wheatfall, DeSalvo, Larkin Cycles, Sage Cycles, Wolf Tooth, and Onguza Cycles. Episode Sponsor: Dynamic Cyclist (use code: THEGRAVELRIDE) Support the Podcast Join The Ridership  Automated Transcription, please excuse the typos: [00:00:00] Craig Dalton: Hello, and welcome to the gravel ride podcast, where we go deep on the sport of gravel cycling through in-depth interviews with product designers, event organizers and athletes. Who are pioneering the sport I'm your host, Craig Dalton, a lifelong cyclist who discovered gravel cycling back in 2016 and made all the mistakes you don't need to make. I approach each episode as a beginner down, unlock all the knowledge you need to become a great gravel cyclist. This week on the podcast, I'm sharing a bunch of interviews with frame builders from the made handmade bicycle show in Portland, Oregon. This past weekend, the event was so packed with builders and bike brands that I'm actually going to have to divide this into two episodes and each of them are going to be longer than I typically would release. I'm hoping you'll enjoy these little snippets to get to know some brands that might not otherwise be familiar to you. So many great hand-built bicycles up there. Very enjoyable show, and I hope you enjoy these interviews. Before we jump in, I do need to thank this week. Sponsored dynamic cyclist. The team at dynamic cyclist has built cycling, specific stretching and strength training routines. That are available from an app. Or directly from the web. Go visit dynamic cyclists.com to check out the videos. They have a free one week trial and gravel ride podcast. Listeners can get 15% off. All plans using the code, the gravel ride. Stretching is one of those things that I've committed to over the last year to try to get over the hump on a back issue. And I found the dynamic cycles program, very easy to follow. They've got a bunch of different routines. They somewhat trick me into doing a little core work, which I appreciate, but I appreciate very much the specific intention of the program directed at us cyclists so if that's of interest to you, go visit dynamic cyclists.com. And remember that code, the gravel ride for 15% off. With that said, we're going to slam all these interviews together. So we're going to jump around a little bit, but each of the builders and brands introduces themselves. So hopefully it's easy to follow and remember i'll have part two coming next week as well [00:02:24] Alder | Rodriguez Bicycles: My name is Alder Keld and I work for Rodriguez Bikes Alder. Tell me about Rodriguez and where you're from and what you, what your vibe is on the gravel scene. Rodriguez's bike shop over in Seattle on, on the Ave and we've been around for 50 years. I feel like only recently. We've really kind of tap, started tapping into maybe in the past like three years or so, the, the gravel market. You know, a lot of our disc brake bikes have gone like really popular now. As the road bike trend, kind of like, you know, starts to fade away. But we have our gravel models of Finney Ridge and the Bandido. That's Bandido. There's also Bandido and that's, that's a Finney Ridge right there. Let's talk about the differences between those two models. I mean this, this one looks pretty amazing with that old kind of GT inspired rear triangle. Yeah. Triple triangle there is is really nice. The, the line gets a little blurry between the two models. You know, it's mostly the way the break mounts. So the Finney Ridge is gonna be post mount, is post mount, and then the bandidos gonna be flat mount. But you know, we are completely custom. You can choose whatever tire, tire clearance you want, either one. And if you put a carbon fork on it, you're generally gonna get a flat mountain up front. So the, the line gets very blurred between which one is which. It's kind of, they both come through axle if you want, so. Gotcha. And does one have more of like a, a bike packing orientation and the other, more of a kind of race ride orientation? I would say the Bandido is definitely kind of on the race here, side of things. Just like the, the fitting of ridge, you know, I mean it's again, like this is a bandido, but it has three pack bounce on the fork. Yeah. And that's Finney Ridge and it has three pack bounce. You can really do whatever you want. And what, what frame materials are you building out of? So we do, for our lowest end one is 7 25, which is still much better than a lot of production bikes out there. And then we do velo spec and then we have like an ultralight blend that we have. And we do, we actually velo spec makes a lot of our tubing custom for us. So we get our specific Rockwell hardness and budding and tomb shape that we want out of everything. Okay, so what's the best way for people to discover the bikes you have an Instagram that they should follow? We do have an Instagram. It's at Rod Bikes on Instagram. You can see a bunch of, you know, cool, cool stuff there a lot of fun photos. We do also have a website we, rod bikes.com and you can see all the models. As well. And what does that ordering process look like for customers? Is it a long lead time or what's, what is it? We have a six to eight lead turnaround time. Okay. Usually, and then in the slower season, it could be four to six weeks. Okay. So pretty quick to get this dream bike underneath you. Yeah. We do full fittings and everything, so we have 20 stock sizes. So if one of our 20 stock sizes does not fit you we'll, measure your body parts, put it into our. Fit machine that we developed called Next, next Fit, and it'll spit out numbers. We'll double check those numbers and build a frame for you. We weld and paint in-house, so the turnaround time is very fast. Sweet. Thanks for that overview. No problem. [00:05:22] Sean | Destroy Bicycles: Can I get your name and brand? Yeah. My name is Sean Eagleton and I'm with Destroy Bikes. Sean, can you tell me a little bit about Destroy, where do you build out of and what's your philosophy about Gravel? We are out of Portland, Oregon and we actually just got the c l o, the old c o factory with inside of Chris King. And Gravel has been, has been growing this last year a lot. Sorry. That's all right. And what about this bike that we're looking at? So this bike is a personal friend of ours who wasn't really riding the last couple of years. She just started racing this last year. And a few of the races that I worked, she came in a good 10 minutes ahead of her husband. And it was, a friend that has just been killing it every time she goes out on a race and was. Basically a easy choice to say that this was gonna be our next cross racer, gravel racer. Her husband's known for being in the bicycle world already and doing a lot of really long extended gravel rides. And it was just a, perfect opportunity. Someone that we're very picky about our riders. We like people who aren't necessarily the typical racer. We like a little bit Grier and people with a little bit of attitude. So hence the, that matches with the Destroy brand name. Yes. That's why we wanted to go like super colorful with this thing. So the lights don't do it justice in here, but the full rainbow sparkle with the gold detailing really shows who she is as a person too. She's just a bit out there, a bit wild. What kind of frame materials this one built out of? So this is all Chrome, Molly and I like to do, tend to do a mix of stuff. I prefer Columbus seat stays and chain stays on a lot of things. The seat tube is a Tonga seat tube and the down tube and top tube are both Columbus as well. And do you like that from a ride performance perspective or how they weld together or what do you like about them? The Columbus in particular, like their seat stays, they're one of the few brands that make something that's bendable. I believe a lot of pre-made chain stays and seat stays aren't supposed to be used directly right out of the package. They still should be modified in some way to better fit the ride, better fit the bike and they're one of the few companies that I have, without a doubt, I can always modify them whichever way I want to. The bends come out clean. There's a lot of tubing that they do, certain hardening processes that it's just almost impossible to manually work them after. And just like to leave no tube left untouched, basically. What, and what does the customer journey look like if they are interested in a destroy bike? What do they do? How do they reach you? What does the timeline look like and what is the kind of experience of working with you? So it's a fairly simple process. We have. We now have a submission form online on our website, and you basically go on the website. We do a lot of batch stuff as well, so you're gonna choose between one bike or five bikes. And the whole process is getting to know you, getting a fit for you. And then I like to go a little bit crazy with the tubing talk, which most people get a little bit weary of. But everything is style as well, right? And when I'm choosing tubing, it's what do you want the bike to look like and how do you want it to ride? Ride, ride quality is just as important to me as how the bike looks. I'm very big on the geometries that we build. I tend to do things a little bit differently than a lot of people. But it's all based on my riding experiences and how I want the bike to handle. Yeah. And what's the best way to get more information about Destroy destroy by co.com. Instagram, destroy by Co, and TikTok as well. Right on. Yeah. Thanks Sean. Thank you. battaglin bicycles Okay. Can I get your name and the brand? Hi, I'm Marco from OA Battlin and I'm the marketing manager. We are a small company based in Italy making handcrafted custom still bikes. And how long has Baten been around? Battlin has been around since 1981. That's the year when our founder, Jovanni Battlin won the Jalia and Walter Espania. It's a legendary grantour double achieved which was achieved only by Eddie Merckx. That in 1981, our founder right after his grand tour victories launched his autonomous bike brand. Amazing. And I know the gravel scene has been slower to take off in Europe, but now it's catching fire over there. When did you as a brand start to explore building gravel bikes? We started exploring building gravel bikes two years ago. Obviously. The company has been, has always been focused on road bikes because that's that's what our founder used to ride as a professional cyclist, obviously back in the eighties. We knew that the gravel scene was growing. And we knew also our customers were asking for gravel product. But we wanted to find the right product, not just launch a random random gravel bike. And two years ago we started designing the port of energy which is a sort of gravel variant of our flagship product of the Portofino. So basically our port of energy has the same shares with our with its road counterpart, the same construction, the lag construction with the oversized logs and the oversized tubing. Yeah, I think that's very, a very striking element of the bike we're looking at is these lugs. Yes. It very much has the feel of a of a race oriented gravel bike. Yes. Which seems to be the front end of where European gravel is right now. This kind of more racy oriented bike. Would you, is that accurate? Yeah, it's accurate to say that and also you have to consider that our founder Giovanni and his son Alex, who is the c e o of the company right now wanted to. To design the port of energy went back to the old bikes the company used to make for the professional ra racers of the eighties who who raced in competitions the per rube. On on the pave on rougher roads. Yeah. Back back in the day, the roads were rougher than. The roads, the professional erasers are riding now. Basically for the port of energy we went back to the old geometries, to the old frames the company used to make, and we wanted to find this gravel variant, but with still with a road racing feel. Yeah, it's super interesting. I'll make sure to link to this bike in the show notes, 'cause I think people need to see this one. If people are interested in finding more out about the brand, where would you direct them to? They can visit our website, officina battalion.com and they can find us also on YouTube. We have many videos where we share our best builds. And for a US based customer, how would they get their hands on one of these bicycles? Actually the US is probably our most important market and we sell directly. Okay. We have a direct relationship with the consumer. We build our, all our bikes from scratch, so they send us their body measurements, their specifications. And we build we start from there. And would they be buying a complete bike with a groupo or are they just buying a frame and fork from you? It depends. All our bikes are custom made it depends on the customer's requests and specifications they can buy just the frame or we are more than happy to build a complete bike. Got it. Thanks. I appreciate the time. Thank you very much for coming and enjoy the show. [00:13:30] Ben | Argonaut: Okay. Can I get your name and brand? My name is Ben Farber. I'm the founder and head of r and d at Argonaut Cycles. Ben, where is Argonaut based? We are based in Bend, Oregon. Right on. I think I knew that and I'd seen the bikes for a number of years, but it seems like over the last few you've both expanded the line and added some small batch production. Can you talk about like the brand a little bit as it spec specifically to gravel cycling? What the custom bikes are all about and what the super knot's all about. Certainly. Yeah. So we are fully vertically integrated production facility based again in Bend, Oregon. We've got two models, the RMM three and the GR three in terms of the style of bike. So the RMM three is our road bike. It's a fairly racy, generally designed road bike, but it comes in custom geometry as well as proven geometry. With custom layup as well. So our big thing is how we engineer the carbon inside the bikes. And that's true for our gravel bike as well. So our gravel bike is the G R three. The idea behind the G R three is that it's a go fast up, go faster down, a gravel bike where the geometry is pretty progressive in terms of the front end with a 68 and a half degree head to Bengal. But then also a really nice tight rear end of a 415 millimeter chains stay with clearance for a 700 by 50 C tire. I think we've seen Sarah Max go quite fast on that bike this year. Yeah, absolutely. Sarah is our is our top racer that's been out there and doing the lifetime series. She was just in Steamboat and then getting ready to go somewhere in the south again. Pretty soon think so. Yeah. Yeah. Awesome. And then tell me about the Super Knot. I hadn't seen that before. Super Knot is our non-custom production line, essentially. So it's the same technology that is in our custom bikes in terms of the layup pattern of the frame and where and how they're made. They're just not custom to the individual. So we make these for in two different build, two different. Models. Essentially there's a super knot RMM three, the road bike and the super knot, g R three. And they are the build kit that they're outfitted with is essentially what we at the shop. If we could ride anything, it's what we would ride. It's if I would build myself a bike tomorrow, this is what I'd put on it. And that's the ethos behind these. And it's for a customer who doesn't necessarily need or want a custom bike, but just wants a really great riding, super high performance, really well made bike. That's what the Super knot is. Where they're cheaper in terms of relative to the custom bikes. So it's fif 14 nine for a complete RM three and then 12 nine for a complete g R three and lead time's about four weeks. So we're able to reduce the lead time. Got it. And is this bike, does it have a similar kind of race orientation or are you going for a broader applicability of a gravel bike? It's more of a go fast gravel bike with ample clearance. Essentially. And what does that mean, ample clearance for you guys on this bike? 50 C tire. Okay. 7 0 5 50 C. Perfect. Yeah. Yeah, it's interesting to see like over the last few years that size become commonplace, whereas four or five years ago it was a little bit tricky, I think, for a lot of frame builders to make that work. Yeah. And that's the art. And the cool thing, the magic in the G R three is having that short chain stay length with enough clearance for a 50 C tire. It makes it really capable, but also really fun to ride. Bike. A lot of times with the geometry of clearing that big of a tire, you burden it by having a super long wheel base, especially the rear center. And what, that's what really concentrate on the G three is that tight rear center makes the bike just so much more lively. Nice. And if customers are interested in learning more about Argonaut, what's the best way to find out about what you guys are doing? Argonaut cycles.com. And then follow us on instagram@argonautcycles.com as well. And I think you mentioned already the timelines for these various spikes, but if someone was coming to you for a custom build, what does that look like? I realize like the back and forth about getting the custom geometry right with the customer takes some time. Yeah. But yeah. What does it generally look like? Turnaround time? No. Good question. So we're about 12 to 14 weeks on the full custom bike. Okay, so it's still not too bad. Yeah. Right on. Thanks, Ben. Absolutely. Thank you. [00:17:29] Cameron | Wren Sports: Okay. Can I get your name and the company? Yeah. I'm Cameron Sanders. I'm with Rinn Sports. Cameron, let's talk about this handlebar you have in your hands. I know this is a little tricky since we're on audio, but let's do your best to describe it. Awesome. Yeah. So this is our perseverance drop bar. We have a perseverance flat and drop bar. The flat bar. We actually have on a number of gravel bikes out there as well. What it is, it's a one piece integrated arrow accessory alt bar. Think. If you're thinking like Jones or Redshift kitchen sink, you're in the right space but let's say the box that showed up on your doorstep was twice the size. Yeah. So what we're looking at, it's a, drop bar handlebar with an arrow extension kind of built into it. Correct, yeah. And a lot long as you said, a lot more longer and extended than you might be visualizing with sort of the short stubby extensions that we see on other handlebars. Yeah. It's not just for a psyching. Cycling computer or just resting your palms on this is like a full other position to get into. And from a manufacturing standpoint, we have not just like one loop, there's multiple angles here. So it's going out, it's flaring up, it's going, it has a nose that it goes around. And that definitely makes this a harder bar to manufacture. Basically we have enough material out front to make a whole nother bar. And where, what type of athlete, gravel athletes are you seeing kind of gravitate towards this bar? What type of events in your mind as a designer, are they? Is it intended for? Yeah, so the people that I think are benefiting the most from this are bike packers and like hyper endurance athletes. This was a. I jotted down notes about what I wanted after riding the Baja divide. And then I went and did a thousand mile gravel tour of Eastern Oregon. And between my mountain bike and my drop bar bike, I wanted something that felt at home on either one of them. But we also are getting a lot of riders and racers that are doing a hundred to 300 mile like ultra endurance days that are really enjoying the bar. Yeah, I bet. I've just recently been, Watching from afar, peri breast, Paris. And thinking like you need to get in an arrow position to finish an endurance run today like that. We have had a few people that there's some gravel events that don't allow you to a add on the arrow like clips, but because this is integrated, it's like this weird loophole where you can run it at some of those events. And I've had people that bought it just for that, which was not something I intended or thought of whenever I built the bar. But Even for the weight weaning, because it's integrated. It I'm also not a weight weaning myself. I'm bike packing with a hundred pounds of gear, but because it's integrated, it actually is very lightweight because you're minimizing the amount of stuff you have to use to attach an arrow position. Yeah. Offline, you were telling me a little bit about the armrests. Can you just describe them a little bit? Yeah. We wanted something in the aftermarket. We talked to profile design and a number of different companies and we just. Couldn't find what we really wanted for the bars. I wanted something that had a very tiny footprint on the bars so that you're not losing any real estate for hand positions or mounting things or shifting or whatever. And the armrests will clip onto the flats or the drops and either where the bars are themselves on along the top of the plane or in the loop itself, and they fully articulate and rotate so that you can. Just really fine tune your rest position in a way that you can't on a normal clip on. Because they are integrated into the arrow loop, there's only so much you can do with playing and moving them around. So ours are a lot more adjustable. And if people want to find out more information and or buy your products, where do they go? So they go to rin sports.com. Super easy. That's Ren Sports with a w r e n sports.com. Right on. And Cameron, thanks for the time and congrats on finishing the Oregon Timber Trail just in time to join us here at Maid. Yeah, thank you so much. Yeah, it was a great 18 days of riding. Awesome. [00:21:22] Igor | Velo Orange: All right. Can I get your name and brand? Sure. My name is Igor Stainbrook and I'm with Velo Orange. And where is Velo Orange located? We are in Glen Burnie, Maryland. The Maryland's not a name you often hear it's such, there's such great riding there, but you don't often hear about a lot of bike brands out of that area. That's right, yeah. There's a lot of really good riding, especially out of DC like you mentioned earlier, there's the c o canal and the gap trails, and a lot of our customers do long distance touring or random earing events. And so those kind of trails are perfect for our style of bikes. Yeah. What was the origin story behind the brand? So we first started in 2006. We were basically importing stuff from France and Japan and UK stuff that was more vintage style. And since then, since those sources dried up of new old stock stuff, we started developing our own things, improving on those designs. And now we do a lot of both classic style. But also more modern stuff too. Gotcha. So that was the inspiration that kinda, I see it in what I'm seeing around the booth here that, yeah, those classic styles and classic lines. As you started obviously it appears to be a touring reveering vibe, some of the stuff you're doing. As you started to see more kind of off-road riding, popularized in the us, what have you developed from a product perspective? So obviously tires are getting bigger and bigger. Since we first started, everybody was riding like 20 threes and 20 fives, but now we have a number of models. We have one that has, that's the rando that's coming out that has 30, that can take up to 30 eights. And then we also have the P L A, which is our kind of bike packing style bike. But it lends itself really nicely to, if you wanted to do two point fours, but you could put 45 millimeter tires, two point ones. It takes racks and fenders. You can put drop bars on it. It's a nice frame that has a lot of versatility. Yeah. You've got. The two ends of the gravel cycling world here. Exactly, yeah. Your road plus and then the bike backing side and not in the middle. It's interesting. Yeah. On this bike you were just describing with the bigger tires, can you talk about the rear end? It looks a little bit unique. Yeah. So the p l a, it's actually been in our stable for a number of years now. It's gone through a couple iterations, the most recent one. We now have through axles. And it has a new paint, but the geometry that everybody really likes is still the same. It has a wishbone rear end and it has a lot of custom stuff that goes into it that maybe a lot of people don't really, maybe not notice, but it's basically the rear end is a segmented wishbone that has, it's a bent tube and then there's plugs that are custom C and seed inserted and then braised in. And so it's a lot of. Technical stuff that goes into something that people may not even necessarily notice. Yeah. I think with a brand like this, it gives it some unique, beautiful details. Absolutely. Yep. Which always makes owners super proud to show off their bike. For sure. And you were mentioning that this one can be built up as a drop bar bike or a flat bar. Yes, absolutely. Yeah. We have a lot of people will build them up with drop bars. They most of the time they're one buys. We've seen some two buys as well. And it just lends itself nicely to a variety of build styles. So we don't really say, oh, it has to be this way, because they come as frame sets so you can build it up as you want. And so we also designed the geometry and the fit to really fit the rider nicely. So the larger sizes are 29 er and the smallest size of 26. Got it. So you don't have to compromise on frame bag size or kind of having weird fit on a very small bike with really big tires. So it's a nice, it's a nice rider. Gotcha. And Igor, what's the best way for people to learn more about Velo Orange? Go to velo orange.com or on Instagram. And what are you on Instagram Velo orange. Got it. Thanks for the time. Absolutely. Anytime. [00:25:17] Reuben | Rizzo Cycles: Can I get your name and the brand? My name is Ruen from Uhha Cycles from Spain. Ruen, can you tell me a little bit about the bike we're looking at? Yeah. We have gravel a gravel bike with a big tri freelance up to 750 with a new MV fork that they are actually selling on their mocks. But now it's available for the builders. And I have built a fulled titanium gravel frame with the with the full cable integration. We have some three D printed parts the dropouts which are U D H standard compatible. A joke for the chaining credence and the upper part of the head tube for having the custom cable integration without a, without having a super heavy and big head tube. It's a very clean look. Yeah. It's very You building out of Spain? Yeah, I'm building in Spain. I have the workshop in the near the City Center of Madrid. I'm a one band, one man band operation. I do everything but the paint and the finishing. Yeah, that's pretty much everything about the main things about the bike. Yeah. Tell me a little bit more about the dropout in the rear here that's using. The newer kind of mechanism of attaching the rear rail. Yeah. I developed my own dropouts for the to match my style and have a custom product my own aesthetic. And yes, we, I recently, this is the second bike I build with the U D H. We are, we were all forced to embrace this new standard. So I have been pretty reluctant. But now I have developed all this new platform with the dropouts. I have both C N C machine for the steel and three D printer for the titanium. Yeah, you can see it's I achieve because the main problem with the U D H is the symmetry of the dropouts on the rear end. I kindly achieve the symmetry with a few touches on the sign. And they are three D printed. We have a drive side with for the U D H power. And then Onri side has the flat mount brake mount. So everything is in line and easy to build. And are you able to three D print in Madrid as well? No. The three D printer is is made somewhere else. It took me a long time to find a supplier that meets my quality standards in terms of finishing overall, because the main problem with the three D printer is this grainy finish you, and you can click easily tell the difference between the three printed part that the rest of the tubes. And as you can see in here, if you touch the yolk, the finish on the yolk is pretty smooth and yeah, super clean. It's almost seamless with the rest of the tube. That is what I wanted to achieve. So it took me some time, but now I'm starting to use in this so that this technology that give you so freedom for design and so many options. And how did you get your start building? I start building almost seven years ago when I wanted to occupy all my free time between jobs and I started looking at the I, by that time I started to meet all the builders and see some custom bikes around. So I went into deep into the knowledge of first of all knowing more brands and builders and. Be aware that we're still people building bikes by hand. So I started really slowly and then I was pretty much self-taught in my workshop and making bikes for friends and for myself and doing this trying and error thing constantly and trying to get better and better in welding and building and everything you do at the sub. Amazing. And for a US based customer, what's the best way to learn more about the brand or ultimately order one of these bikes? First of one you can visit my website and my Instagram. If you look for Rho cycles in the web, it will be easily appears at the first of one of the first results. It's r a said O. And it's pretty easy to get in touch with me via Instagram or or mail. I try to keep a quick responses on all the direct messages and mail and yeah, the talk for a custom bike. Start straight away with me and we can talk about all your dream projects. Awesome. Thanks for the time. I appreciate it. Thanks to you. [00:29:35] Brad | W H Bradford: Can I get your name and brand? Hi, this is Brad from w h Bradford Designs. Brad, where do you build out of Sacramento, California. Right on, right up the road from me. I'm in Marin County. Oh, awesome. I ride Mount Tam quite a bit. As naturally you would from that area, it's like Mount Tam is amazing and not too far from you. This bike actually would be pretty good on Mount Tam, given that we're looking at a gravel bike with a suspension fork and dropper post, which the listener well knows. I'm a big fan of. It is actually the bike that I designed to do the alpine dam loop on. You called it out. This is our Gazo gravel frame. This is the bike we build the most of primarily double butted air hardened c molly for the front triangle Columbus rear end. We've made a few aesthetic changes for the bike this year. We've allowed integrated dropper post routing for 27 2. So it adds a second internal line to the frame. And then it is designed to work with the fox ax suspension fork, or you can switch it back to an envy, gravel fork if you wanna stay rigid. And so that's like a slight adjustment in the axle, the crown between those two forks, is that right? It was actually. Thank you so much. The axle of the crown is so close and given the fact that you probably want the front end a little slacker and a little higher, I didn't adjust the axle of the crown, but what I did adjust on the geo. Was the actual forward seating position of the rider. So the seat tube angle was increased forward by half a degree. We offset the seat tube at the bottom bracket by 7.5 millimeters, and then I actually made the top tube longer by like quarter inch and slacked the head tube angle out by a half a degree. Putting the rider more forward in the riding position and now allowing him to actually actuate the suspension fork better. Yeah, it's interesting. I'm totally with you on that, that, a small difference in actual axle to crown when swapping those forks actually positions the bike more oriented towards a rigid fork versus the suspension forks. So it's a natural compromise. Exactly. And w given the 45 millimeters of travel that the ax has, it doesn't raise the bottom bracket hype that much, but then you're still gonna be descending into your perfect pedaling position. Instead of having it drop down into a lower pedaling point and possibly smacking, roots and things like that. And that's a major concern in Marin as well, because you have Nice, those, all those nice polished roots on all your trails. Exactly. For customers, is this a custom bike or are you doing stock sizes? Pretty. So as a builder I offer three separate models. Our gravel bike, our adventure cross, which is a flat bar, gravel bike. Bike packing bike and our mountain bike. And then we do custom geo custom sizing on all frames, but we don't really venture out of those three designs currently. Gotcha. And how did you get your start building? Oh wow. I fell into this life. I sold my first bicycle design when I was in eighth grade to Alan Brown at Ozone Bikes, and it's just been a never ending process since then. And I got to this point and I've always wanted to do really high-end, road mountain bikes and I think that I've gotten to that point in my career. Nice. And for a customer looking to learn more about the brand, what's the best way of finding out more? Go to our social media page our Instagram, w h Bradford Designs, or just shoot me a message and ask me any questions you have. 'cause I'm always available. And what does the purchasing journey look like for a customer when they contact you? They fallen in love with what you're doing. How long does it take? What is the experience? Feel like I, I am a working builder, so you'll contact me. Basically, we figure out what bike you want sizing. I work with you. We produce a cad drawing of the bike and then small deposit down once we've gotten to that point. And it's usually 30 to 45 days for delivery. Okay. Right on. Thanks for the time. No problem. Thank you very much. [00:33:13] Richard | Speedvagen: All right. Can I get your name and brand? I am Richard Poole. I am the creative director at Speed Bogging. I couldn't come to Portland without talking to speed bogging. For sure. So let's talk a little bit about this bike. Yeah, just gimme a little bit of the details of the gravel bike we're looking at. Alright, so we got a pretty traditional custom rugged road for us. What we do with our rugged roads are, since they're all custom, they're built specifically to the tire size you want We're good and firm believers in short chain stays and more playful bikes. So if you never plan on running a 45, we're not gonna build you a bike that's gonna clear a 45 if you know you're only gonna run a 35. That's what we're gonna build it to. That makes sense. All these bikes from speed wagging, they're always Super tight and clean on the rear end. So that makes a lot of sense. Yeah. But if I did come to you and say, Hey, I'm all about a 50 C tire, you can deal with that. We can do that. We actually have the upgraded model of this called the rugged or road. And that will use, like any of the new suspension forks on the market, like the gravel forks, or we could use the envy adventure fork on that to clear about a 50. Gotcha. And tell me a little bit about the c o situation here on the svi. All speed vs. Have integrated seat masks. The seat post head is made by NV for us. We've been partners with NV since the launch of both brands. Seriously. They just keep making 'em, we keep using them. What does that translate to? So if I get one of these out of the box and I've ordered it from you, do I need to cut anything down to, to get the right seat post size? No. No. So the way one, we prefer, everyone that gets a bike from us gets a fitting from us too. That way we can get all the measurements dialed. We will have everything ready to go by the time your bike's built. And then, so we'll cut it down. It'll come as you see it right now. And those seat post heads have 30 millimeters of range. Okay. So if you do, it's made for 30 millimeters of range, just in case you swap a saddle or something like that. It can go up or down. Yeah. I gotcha. That should be plenty. Yeah. And then what type of tube set are you building with on the gravel bike? Oh all of our tubes are custom to us. A mixture of two true temper Columbus. And yeah, that's about it really. And what does it look like for a customer looking to get one of these bikes? How, what's the process look like and what's the turnaround time? We start with the fit. The fit is the most important measurement. We like to say we can get your bike 95% there if you're gonna send us your fit numbers from someone else. But we're big believers in being balanced on the bike and our fitting process incorporates that into each bike we build. And that's proprietary to us. No fitters really do that besides us. They tend to focus on comfort and like body angles and that sort of stuff. And is there a little bit of a sort of customer exploration conversation that goes on when I come to say, Hey, all I do is ride rowdy gravel. Could be mountain bike trails, but I want a gravel bike. Yeah. We'll walk you through that entire process. It all starts with that fit and at that fitting process, we will try and get you your entire build spec confirmed, your geocon confirmed, and then your paint scheme confirmed. It's about a three hour process, sometimes more. And by that time, like after the fitting, your bike's going into the queue and getting ready to be built and what does that sort of build process looks like after we've. Got the geometry ironed out between the two of us. Oh, that's a wild question just given the last couple years in the pandemic. But typically speed volumes are designed to be turned around in three months or so. Sometimes it's three to six. And then during the pandemic it was quite a bit longer, but we're pretty much back from that. Nice. And what's the best way for people to get more information about the brand? The website www.speedbogging.com. Awesome. Thanks for the time. Yeah. [00:36:43] Ross | Celilo Cycles: Can I get your name and the brand? Okay. My name is Ross Hatton and I'm with s Lilo Cycles out of Corvallis, Oregon. I'm looking at something rather unique here at Made. Can you describe this bike and the material you're building out of? Yeah, so our bikes are made out of wood reinforced with carbon fiber. So the outside shell is either hardwood or soft wood, depending on the material properties we want. And then it's reinforced in the inside with a full carbon fiber. Shells. We've got all the riding strength of carbon fiber frame, and a much smoother ride from the wood, which I acts as a damper on the frame and takes up some of the sting of the vibrations. Fascinating. So can you tell me a little bit about that process as I'm visualizing it? Obviously I'm seeing the, the wood exterior. Are you crafting the wood and then inserting sort of the carbon fiber after the fact inside that? Or does it start with the carbon fiber? So it starts with the wood, and we basically make two bicycle frames, so as if the frame is butterflied open. So we cut every tube twice, then we hollow them out after joining them together into the frame shape. And then we do a lined layup with the carbon fiber. So we've got all the directional layup inside the tubes. Then we put them together and we do a bladder supported circular layup on the inside. So there's no seam. It's a continuous circle on the inside. And then the we take the two halves of the wood, we put it together. And we machined down the outside to get the bicycle shape part of the machining process. We set up a we set up spaces for carbon fiber inlay, and then we overmold the carbon fiber and sand everything down. And so we get a clean fusion between the carbon fiber reinforcing tapes on the outside and the wood appearance. That's most the outside. I think I gave you a basically impossible task to describe how complicated that process is. If someone's interested, and I think they should be to, to sort of discover more about that process and what, what it actually looks like. Where would you direct them to? It should go to celilo cycles.com. Celilo is spelled c e L i L O. Okay. And you, you mentioned that adding the wood on the exterior of the carbon fiber kind of interior adds this dampening element to it. If you could describe like maybe how this bike might feel different. Than a, a standard carbon bike. What would you say? It's gonna be a lot smoother. If you can think about the difference between a wooden baseball bat and something so I don't think people do carbon fiber baseball bats, but you can imagine like aluminum versus wood. Yeah. The wood's got, takes a sting out of the impact. Okay. And so carbon fiber's gonna, would have the same kind of sting if you would make a carbon fiber baseball bat. And the wood is gonna have that less sting. So the carbon fiber frame when you get a hit is going to buzz a little bit. And so the wood really takes that buzz out. So this bike. I take it over like small chattery stuff. Just you don't feel it all, it just floats. Okay. And are, are you guys in production on this model? We're this is so we are, we are in production. Scott's working on various bikes. We've got a number of different models. Okay. One of the nice things with the with the setup is that it's customizable so that when we come in there's various hard points. So like, this is our. Showroom flagship model. It's got hard points all around the inside, so you can do different mounting pieces. It's got internal routing for generators, and depending on what you're looking for, the you can, we can tune the, the specific construction to what you need on the bike. Super interesting. And, and as a customer, if I come to you, are you building something custom from a geometry perspective? For me, we are. Yeah. We, we can do custom geometry. The process has a CAD pro, we have a CAD program that is parametric, so you can put in your reach and stack and all of that. And then the files from which we d cut the different tubes that's all driven by that geometry. So we can very easily customize that geometry for every given frame. Super interesting. And how long does it take for a customer to get a bike after ordering? It's gonna be several weeks. We can, so that's very quick. Yeah, we can, we, our, our process goes through very we, we've got, we've got a process set up so that you can put that, put that into your into our. Take. Take your measurements, put them into your production. Into production and manufacture that frame. Yeah. And you mentioned the website, that being the best place to get more information? Yes. Awesome. And then again Celilo Cycles, c e l i l o. Perfect. Thanks for the time. Thank you. [00:40:52] Ming Tan | Haley Cycles: All right. Can I get your name and the brand? Hey, this is Ming Tan from Haley Cycles. Ming Tang. This is a pretty cool looking bike with a special fork on it. Can you describe what we're looking at? Yeah, so this is one of our gravel bikes. This is outfitted with the cannondale lefty olive gravel fork. So it's got 30 millimeters of travel up front. This one's built with our standard oversized straight gauge tube set. So basically we offer. Three different tube sets you can choose from when you decide to configure a bike, and then we can build it however you like it. So fully custom geometry and fully custom geometry. All of our pricing is inclusive of custom and it's inclusive of your choice of paint and finish. Amazing. These bikes, the paint jobs are always gorgeous on these ha's, thank you. Really appreciate it. I mean it's, we really take pride in the fact that almost any bike that you see on our feed is different. Not all, some of them are similar, but. We really encourage our customers to go and make it unique to them. And are you working exclusively with Titanium? Only with Thai. Okay. Yeah. Gotcha. And what does the customer process look like? If someone wanted to get a Haley, what is what, how do they come in the door? What kind of consultation do they get and how long does it take to get a bike? It's a pretty organic process and usually it starts with a dis, a general discussion of what they're looking for. Whether it's a. A road bike or an all road bike or gravel bike or a hardtail, anything that doesn't have a rear suspension, no problem. But it usually starts with the type of bike they're looking for and then we start talking about fit and whether or not the customer has fit data or if they need to get fitted, or if they just want to duplicate their cockpit, fit off their current bike, we can help build that CAD geometry file for them based on the information that they have. And then, we get deeper into the weeds when it comes to. Tire clearance and gear choice. 'cause it's all interrelated in terms of how the bike gets built. Yeah. And then once the customer decides to move forward and the geometry looks good and the spec looks good, it's about a 16 week, 16 to 18 week lead time to get the frame done Okay and finished. And then if it, if the customer's looking for a complete bike, the complete bikes are all custom quoted considering that you can customize bikes to the valve stems these days. So everything is custom quoted at that point. Nice. Amazing. Thanks for sharing. Thank you. Appreciate it. [00:43:14] Julio | Wheatfall Cycles: Can I get your name and the brand? Yes. Julio Burino from wheat Fall Cycles. Julio, where is Wheat Fall building out of? Santa Cruz, California. Okay. He's currently designing there. We are having them made overseas, but we are now currently looking for someone stateside in either Oregon or California. Nice. And is it a completely custom process with the brand? Right now they're made to order, but we are working out sizes within our Within our bikes, either the gravel or the mountain or the cruisers. This bike we're looking at, what's the frame material? It's titanium. All of the bikes are currently titanium. Gotcha. And what's super unique for you listeners out there about this bike? It's actually got dual top tubes, the two thin top tubes rather than one across the top and a little bit of a sort of asymmetry and where they hit the C tube. What's the story behind that? It's something that my partner and I have been talking about for a long time to do something a little bit more unique. Make an asymmetrical bike that is aesthetically pleasing for the eye, but has a compliance that feels really well on the trails and on the road. Yeah. You nailed it on the aesthetically pleasing part here. I love it. That was the emphasis. Certainly for a show like this, it gives you a chance to stand out with a, titanium finished bike. Oh, thank you. Thank you. So what does it look like for a customer interested in finding out more about the brand? Where should they go and what does the process look like in creating their dream bike with you? So essentially this is our first show. We're just gathering ideas. We have a webpage that we do need to still work on Instagram and the maid show is catapulting our Success to get the name and the brand out there, but you we are at ww dot wheat falls cycles.com and you can get information and email us from there. Fantastic. Great to have another brand outta Santa Cruz. Awesome, thank you. All right. Can I get your name and the brand? I am Jeff Fra, and I am with Wild Bikes. Welcome back to the Pod Jeffrey. Thank you for having me. Can you tell us about what you brought to Maid? Yeah, so today at Maid, our big, our kind of big reveal is that my business partner Andy, is a huge Schwinn Paramount fan, and we have a Wayfinder fork, right? So what's cool about our carbon Wayfinder fork is that it's an inch and eighth straight steer. With all the modern gravel functionalities, dynamo routing, three pack mounts, fender mounts, rack mounts, all that good stuff that we like as gravel folks. Yeah. And what we wanted to really showcase is to other builders really what you can do with this fork. And so we build a lugged bike and we chrome the lugs. So it would be that, Schwinn Paramount homage. Yeah. Painted the main tubes, painted the fork. And this is the first lug bike that Wild has yet created. And it's this very classic looking thing with all the modern gravel capabilities. It fits 50 C tires has all the, has three bottom mounts, top two feedback mount. And we just wanted to really lean on our love for the past and bring it into the future and show people what was possible. Yeah, I love that juxtaposition of the kind of old visual styling. But as you're describing all that modern gravel performance, and it's super lightweight and it's a really cool lug set. So the lugs taper, so if you notice the tube actually tapers down to the C tube. Got it. 'cause you want the stiffness here and you want a little more flex in the seat area, cluster area for comfort. And so it's a really cool, well-thought out lug set designed by Chris Bishop of Bishop Bikes. Okay. And the carbon fork, it's super light. It's just, it just happens to be lug. And in, you may not know the answer to this question, but I'm gonna ask it anyway. In terms of lugged bike manufacturing experience, is that an art that sort of was at risk of disappearing and are fewer and fewer people understanding how to make a bike that way? I've been shocked at how few lugged bikes there actually are at this show. So it, it maybe seems to be waning. I think the problem is just the lug sets themselves present physical limitations. So this lug set is cool 'cause it has a sloping top tube, whereas most lug sets have a very horizontal Strat tube. So the lug itself actually dictates the geometry of the, to a large extent. You have a couple degrees you can play with, but it's set. So when you start building large tired bikes with a 700 by 50 C and then a straight top tube stand over becomes an issue. And so it's cool because we have products like this emerging that actually allow you to build that. Traditional logged construction with modern gravel features. And so I think our obsession with big comfortable tires has made the old lug sets a bit obsolete. So yeah, I think until we have more things like this available, it is gonna be a little bit of a dying art form because people just aren't building road bikes like they used to. Yeah. And if you are building a road bike, chances are you wanna fit 30 twos, 35. That makes a ton of sense. And is this a bike that a customer could come and buy from you today? Oh, we would love to. We are so hoping that people, we, we've loved this process and we love the outcome and so yeah, we would love to sell a customer this bike. We'd love to build more. And is that, is it a longer process for building and design or about the same? No, it's about the same. About four to five months is, what it takes for us from the project kickoff to when we are able to deliver a finished to product. Okay. Awesome. I hope I see more of these beauties on the roads and trails. No, thank you, Craig. Cool. [00:48:36] Mike DeSalvo | DeSalvo Cycles: Can I get your name and the brand? Yeah. My name is Mike DeSalvo from DeSalvo Cycles. Mike, can you tell us a little bit about the Scrabble bike we're looking at? This one I built was, it's actually for a customer. It was a fun project. He just wanted to go for a steel bike. Wanted to clear a tire, about 48 to 50 and keep it pretty classic. Unlike some of the really crazy stuff here with all the integrated hoses, lines, everything he wanted, all external mechanical shifting. It feels a little like blast from the past in a way. And is this a typical like tube set that you build with, or do you build with other materials as well? So I build with steel and titanium. This one right here is a steel bike, mostly Columbus Steel is what I use. Okay. And is there a reason for that? Is it as far as just, as far as name, the branded tubing, Columbus has always just been my favorite when it comes to steel. Yeah. Most of the bikes these days actually are titanium, but this one is a steel bike. Yeah. Okay. Gotcha. And you've been building bikes for quite some time now. Is there? Yeah, I'm sneaking up 20, 24. I'll make 25 years of building for me. Amazing. Yeah, it's a huge milestone. Yeah. It's, I know I started when I was 26 and now I'm 51. Has the process, has it always been a custom relationship you had with customers? Yeah. Everything I've always made is made to order. Okay. Yeah. I've never, I never worked in one of the bigger, or not bigger, but one of the, One of the smaller manufacturers or any of that just been a one man band and always made stuff to order. And how many bikes do you typically put out in a year? These days it's mostly titaniums and my numbers have gone down. I usually, I'm just in the 40 to 50 range is a comfortable spot for me these days. Is it titanium tube set? Just a little trickier to deal with? Yeah. More time consuming. Yeah. The whole process of building titanium bikes is just more time consuming than steel. Way back when we were doing a lot of steel road bikes, I actually almost did 151 year. That was my record. It was like 147. It's a crazy amount when you dig into like how much time it takes to make these bikes. Like it's a lot. And they've gotten a lot more complicated over the years too, right? We've got through axles and disc brakes and if you rewind 15 years or something when we were doing rim breaks and quick releases and things like that, but just a little more streamlined, a little quicker to do. That makes sense. So what does a customer journey look like? If I wanted to get a bike from you? The interesting thing coming off of Covid right now, at the moment at the moment I'm probably still a year out and I'm actually not currently taking deposits. COVID was a really interesting journey for me because I got a whole lot of orders and got backed up. So about a year ago, I quit taking deposits and I just put people on a wait list. So if you were to come to me today, what we would do is I'd put you on a wait list and unfortunately you'd have to be patient for, about 10 or 12 months. And then once I would get within a couple months of building your bike, I would circle back around with you and we would start then making the decisions. As a one man band, it's really hard for me sometimes to track all of the customer changes, shall we say, along the way. Yeah. So what I do with folks is I'm always happy to get excited and everything, but essentially, the gist of the way it works is I get a deposit and as the build gets closer to the top of the list, I circle back around with the customer. And we go through all the final details. And I think some people are amazed because once they're at the top of the list, that's what I'm focused on. Yeah. And it's gonna be that week or two or three, then I'm gonna build their bike. Versus the waiting, for the 10 or 20 or 30 in front of you Yeah. To get done. Yeah. That's a good way actually to handle it. Yeah. Master that excitement and enthusiasm and get 'em a bike pretty quickly thereafter. Yeah, exactly. Yeah it's tricky. All of us small builders, it's the battle we all face. Is just trying to get stuff done. When you're wearing all the hats during Covid, was it a, an issue of getting the supplies you needed to make the frame or what, and I know obviously there was a lot of enthusiasm about buying bikes during that period. Yeah. Covid was a really crazy thing because it was tons of orders. I'm still building bikes. I'm a little embarrassed to say, but I'm still building bikes that are some of the orders that were placed in during Covid. So I, for me, it was a ton of orders and then it was me being too optimistic about how quickly things might turn around. So then we had the supply issues both. With parts, we had suppliers with raw materials and everything. So you know, what should have taken six months now took a year and a half kind of thing. So just trying to come off of that a huge demand with no supply was just a really awful combination. Yeah. Gotcha. And if people are interested in learning more about the brand, what's the best place to go to? I have a website, DeSalvo cycles.com. I'm on Instagram at DeSalvo Bicycles as well. And I'm still a little fashioned. If somebody wants to talk to me, gimme a call. I'd be happy to chat with you in the shop. Perfect. Thanks, Mike. All right. Thank you. [00:52:49] Darren | Larkin Cycles: Can I get your name and brand? Yeah. Darren Larkin with Larkin Cycles. Darren, where are you building out of? I'm in Deep River Connecticut right now. Okay, interesting. So not a lot of frame builders outta Connecticut. Strangely. There's a couple really good ones right there in my same town is Richard. Richard Sax lives about Mile Away from Me. Oh. And then Peter Weigel is about 20 minutes away. Got it. So it's a nice, it's like a nice little hub of sort of old school frame building. How did you get into Frame building? As a hobby. I guess I was always a tinkerer and it made sense to, it made sense at some point to build a bike for myself. Got it. I was doing a bunch of messengering and riding and just made sense to build myself a better bike and then, built bikes for some other friends and got, I got really lucky getting a connection, helping out another frame builder in their shop, and learned a lot from that. Yeah. It seems like that's where you get the reps, right? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Can you talk about the sort of gravel models that you have and what are you building out of and what are some of the attributes you'd wanna highlight? Yeah so this sort of main stock model that I've been doing, it's been calling it the Dreamer and I've been making it for, at this point, at round five years. I've been trying to make just like a pretty light good general all around. Like affordable gravel bike, that is gonna ride really great and not cost a ton of money. So it's all tig welded, like Columbus, a mix of zona and life tubing. I'm trying to use like American made, like Paragon Machine Works, dropouts, bottom bracket. I've been getting fork blades made on my own, like getting those sort of custom fabricated different places. And cool. Yeah. And what does that, what does a sort of customer journey look like? How do they find you and what does the process look like? Are you building stock frames or custom frames? The, my, my goal is to have this particular model be a stock frame that is just available on the website, but over the past few years, between pandemic materials, availability, and then sort of me moving and resetting shops, it's been a couple years where I haven't been able to do that and I'm. Very much hoping once the dust settles after this show to get stocked back up again and focused on that. Nice. And so how can customers find out more about you? Larkin cycles.com or Larkin Cycles on Instagram. It's the best spots. Perfect. Thank you. Cool. [00:55:07] Dave | Sage Cycles: You, Dave from stage. Hey Craig. Good to see you again man. Good to see you too. And super stoked to hear about the updates on the Storm King. It's a bike. I love the original version of Yeah. And this thing is gorgeous, so why don't you tell me about it? Sure. No, yeah, it's the Storm King. The original Storm King has been such a good, fun bike. It's so versatile. It just, you can do so much with it. Racing, bike packing, adventure riding it just really allows you to do a lot. And as time has gone on from the original bike to where we are now, I've really developed the geometry and the design of the bike to improve it for future proofing, if you will. So from a tire clearance perspective and a tow overlap perspective, those were things from a custom standpoint have always plagued customers. And so I wanted to go about. Fixing that issue that I want somebody to get on this bike, and no matter what size tire they ride, they're gonna have tow clearance. How are you achieving that? So what I did was I redesigned the geometry, and what I found is that if I push the front end of the bike out by two centimeters and then shortened the stem by two centimeters, your handlebar stays in the same place for where it should be. But because I've pushed the front tire out, now you now have toe clearance that you wouldn't have had before. So technically speaking, the bike with the shorter stem will steer quicker than the original version because the, if you think of the stem as a lever and as you turn that lever, the shorter lever turns quicker. But the longer wheel base, because I've pushed out, the front end, actually is more stable at speed. So if you're going down high speed gravel road, it's chunky, washboard, big stuff like that kind of thing. The bike is actually way more stable in a straight line, but when you have to turn in tight corners because the steering is quicker, you can still turn around corners kind of thing. So it's this really nice improvement of being able to stretch out the rider and give a better ride quality. It's similar to mountain bike, but it's not mountain bike. Like it's just different in that way. Yeah. I think it's been just this interesting journey for builders as gravel came about. Yep. To distance ourself from the original kind of maybe Road Plus Origins Correct. Of the design. Yep. And thread that fine line between two Mountain Bikey, but still fun to ride on the road. And I'm super excited about this moment in time because I think for buyers of bikes we're, it's great moment where, yeah, if you get a bike that's produced in the year 2023, There's so much thoughtfulness in the design that have just added versatility to what we were using a few years back. Yeah, no, I agree. Gravel is, has really evolved over the last 10 years. If you think back to 10 years ago, seven years ago, something like that, a 40 millimeter tire was as big as you ever needed for gravel. Didn't need anything bigger, you weren't, nobody was pushing it. Now, with our new Storm King, for example, yeah, it takes 700 by fifties. But we also have an option that you can run a six 50 by 2.4. Yeah. It's huge. Yeah. That's just the versatility of that range to go from a 40 to a 2.4 is huge. So you can very much have one bike. You can take bike packing. Yep. But you can also go to S P T Gravel and throw some forties on it and race hard. Yeah. It'll be great. Yeah. This would be a perfect S B T bike. I know there's a lot of people at S B T that are using road bikes or modified road setups, but the reality is this, Will do the job just fine. Yeah. I think for those of us without a quiver of bikes in our garage to choose from, like you, you wanna be able to modify your bike with just changing tires or wheel sets if you have that opportunity. Yep. You're also doing some neat things with like three D printing right on this bike. You wanna talk about that? Yeah, sure. One of the things going back to the tire clearance issue, but now instead of tow overlap, now tire clearance on the frame one of the things we wanted to really standardize was chain ring size. Crank sizing, if you will, but chain ring size in combination with tire size and how that we can make an, from an efficiency standpoint of building the bike. So what we created was a chainstay yoke. Yeah. That sits behind the chain rings. This is nothing new. Plenty of builders been doing it for years. And. We made a three D printed version of it rather than a, we used to do chainstay yolks that were solid titanium plates. Yeah. And they'd be welded or bent and it was just a chunk of heavy metal. Going the three D route allowed us to really dial in from a CAD perspective using modeling software and and just other types of three d printing software and equipment. We were able to really dial in. The specs that we wanted. So we knew this is the tire size. We knew this is the chain ring size. We knew this is the Q factor of the cranks. What fits, what do we want to do? And then, okay, it also has to be able to run. If somebody wants to run a mechanical shift line, you can still run a mechanical shift line through the yolk. It's, oh, really? Just big enough to be able to do it. Okay we worked on that one quite a bit. But it's great because it allows you to From a building standpoint, it allows us to go, we have one chain stay design, and we can sit there and go, okay, this is how the chain stays, are shaped. We're good. We can repeat it every single time, and we're guaranteed to have this tire clearance, this crank clearance. Yeah. Et cetera, et cetera. And it just it just works. And and the three D parts are actually lighter than the solid plate parts, so we're dropping weight in that regard too. So it's a best of bonus. Bonus. Yeah. Yeah. Let's talk about the rear dropouts. I know, sure. It seems from the mountain bike side of the world, obviously there's new attachment Yeah. Strategies from various manufacturers going on. Yeah. Yeah. How are you thinking about that? Obviously like it's something you can change in real time as the trends move. Yeah. But what have you done with the dropout and just your thoughts on that? So the dropouts that we have on the bike that's on display right now, these are technically version one. I

Join Lionel Birnie and Richard Abraham in Poligny as they recap stage 19 of the Tour de France. There'll be French flavour from François, we'll see who is outside the team bus, and hear from the voice of Radio Tour Sebastian Piquet and analyse the action. Then we'll review yesterday's dinner and look ahead to tomorrow's stage. The Cycling Podcast is supported by Science in Sport. Follow us on social media: Twitter @cycling_podcast Instagram @thecyclingpodcast The 11.01 Cappuccino Our regular email newsletter is now on Substack. Subscribe here for frothy, full-fat updates to enjoy any time (as long as it's after 11am). Science in Sport The Cycling Podcast has been supported since 2016 by Science In Sport. World leading experts in endurance nutrition. Go to scienceinsport.com to see the whole range. Argonaut Cycles Designed and custom-made road and gravel bikes made in Bend, Oregon. Argonaut are for the discerning rider, who is looking for more than just a mass-produced, mass-marketed bike. Go to Argonautcycles.com to start building your dream bike today. MAAP The Cycling Podcast x MAAP collection is available now. Go to maap.cc to see the full MAAP range. D Vine Cellars The 2023 Tour de France wine selection is available now at dvinecellars.com Friends of the Podcast Sign up as a Friend of the Podcast at thecyclingpodcast.com to listen to more than 60 exclusive episodes. The Cycling Podcast is on Strava The Cycling Podcast was founded in 2013 by Richard Moore, Daniel Friebe and Lionel Birnie.

Join Lionel Birnie and Richard Abraham in Bourg-en-Bresse as they recap stage 18 of the Tour de France. There'll be French flavour from François, we'll see who is outside the team bus, and hear from the voice of Radio Tour Sebastian Piquet and analyse the action. Then we'll review yesterday's dinner and look ahead to tomorrow's stage. The Cycling Podcast is supported by Science in Sport. Follow us on social media: Twitter @cycling_podcast Instagram @thecyclingpodcast The 11.01 Cappuccino Our regular email newsletter is now on Substack. Subscribe here for frothy, full-fat updates to enjoy any time (as long as it's after 11am). Science in Sport The Cycling Podcast has been supported since 2016 by Science In Sport. World leading experts in endurance nutrition. Go to scienceinsport.com to see the whole range. Argonaut Cycles Designed and custom-made road and gravel bikes made in Bend, Oregon. Argonaut are for the discerning rider, who is looking for more than just a mass-produced, mass-marketed bike. Go to Argonautcycles.com to start building your dream bike today. MAAP The Cycling Podcast x MAAP collection is available now. Go to maap.cc to see the full MAAP range. D Vine Cellars The 2023 Tour de France wine selection is available now at dvinecellars.com Friends of the Podcast Sign up as a Friend of the Podcast at thecyclingpodcast.com to listen to more than 60 exclusive episodes. The Cycling Podcast is on Strava The Cycling Podcast was founded in 2013 by Richard Moore, Daniel Friebe and Lionel Birnie.

Hey gravel fans!

Liv speaks to bestselling author (and now four time guest!) Jennifer Saint about the heroine Atalanta and her new novel by the same name. Follow Jennifer on Instagram and find Atalanta wherever you get your books. Help keep LTAMB going by subscribing to Liv's Patreon for bonus content! CW/TW: far too many Greek myths involve assault. Given it's fiction, and typically involves gods and/or monsters, I'm not as deferential as I would be were I referencing the real thing. Attributions and licensing information for music used in the podcast can be found here: mythsbaby.com/sources-attributions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.