Podcasts about Le Chat Noir

Fluent Fiction - French: Parisian Improvisation: Artistry and Serendipity in Montmartre Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/fr/episode/2025-03-29-22-34-02-fr Story Transcript:Fr: Dans un coin pittoresque de Montmartre, Paris, le café "Le Chat Noir" éclatait de vie.En: In a picturesque corner of Montmartre, Paris, the café "Le Chat Noir" buzzed with life.Fr: Des tables rondes accueillaient des tasses de café fumant sous une charmante petite tonnelle tandis que les artistes saisissaient la beauté des rues pavées sur leurs toiles.En: Round tables welcomed steaming cups of coffee under a charming little arbor while artists captured the beauty of cobblestone streets on their canvases.Fr: Assis à l'une de ces tables, Clément, un artiste rêveur aux idées farfelues, sirotait son café en regardant Élodie, sa compagne de table.En: Seated at one of these tables, Clément, a dreamy artist with whimsical ideas, sipped his coffee while watching Élodie, his table companion.Fr: Élodie, une journaliste déterminée, s'efforçait de trouver une idée lumineuse pour son prochain article.En: Élodie, a determined journalist, was striving to find a brilliant idea for her next article.Fr: Le temps était étrange pour début avril.En: The weather was strange for early April.Fr: Le soleil brillait ce matin-là, mais à peine avaient-ils pris place que le ciel se couvrit, et, à leur étonnement, de gros flocons de neige commencèrent à tomber.En: The sun was shining that morning, but no sooner had they taken their seats than the sky clouded over, and, to their amazement, large snowflakes began to fall.Fr: "Quel printemps capricieux !"En: "What a capricious spring!"Fr: s'exclama Élodie, en serrant son gobelet de café pour se réchauffer.En: exclaimed Élodie, clutching her coffee cup to warm herself.Fr: Le vent soufflait, bousculant les serviettes et, comble de l'ironie, mouilla l'ordinateur portable d'Élodie.En: The wind blew, scattering napkins and, ironically, splashed Élodie's laptop.Fr: "Non !En: "No!Fr: Mon ordinateur !"En: My computer!"Fr: s'écria-t-elle, tentant en vain de le protéger.En: she cried out, trying in vain to protect it.Fr: Clément, qui avait d'abord pensé que cette neige pourrait compromettre son plan de poisson d'avril, vit soudain une opportunité.En: Clément, who initially thought this snow might compromise his April Fool's Day prank, suddenly saw an opportunity.Fr: "Élodie, et si on transformait ça en spectacle de rue ?"En: "Élodie, what if we turn this into a street show?"Fr: proposa-t-il avec enthousiasme.En: he proposed enthusiastically.Fr: "Un peu comme une performance artistique !En: "A bit like a performance art!Fr: Je fais l'art, et toi, tu prends les notes."En: I'll create the art, and you take the notes."Fr: Bien qu'hésitante, Élodie n'avait pas de meilleure idée et accepta.En: Though hesitant, Élodie had no better idea and agreed.Fr: Clément se leva, commença à danser et à tournoyer, les flocons virevoltant autour de lui.En: Clément stood up, started dancing and twirling, the snowflakes swirling around him.Fr: Les passants s'arrêtèrent, curieux.En: Passersby stopped, curious.Fr: Élodie, à la fois amusée et distraite, écrivit frénétiquement les réactions dans un coin sec de son carnet, le sourire aux lèvres.En: Élodie, both amused and distracted, frantically wrote down the reactions in a dry corner of her notebook, smiling.Fr: Tout à coup, en esquissant un mouvement inattendu pour éviter un nuage de neige, Élodie perdit l'équilibre et se retrouva, par inadvertance, au centre de la scène improvisée.En: Suddenly, in making an unexpected move to avoid a snow cloud, Élodie lost her balance and found herself, inadvertently, at the center of the improvised stage.Fr: La foule éclata de rire et l'applaudit, pensant que tout était orchestré.En: The crowd burst into laughter and applause, thinking it was all orchestrated.Fr: Élodie, mi-rougissante, mi-rigolarde, se surprit à adorer l'attention et improvisa elle aussi.En: Élodie, half-blushing, half-laughing, was surprised to enjoy the attention and improvised as well.Fr: Le "spectacle" dura quelques minutes de pure folie et, à la fin, Clément et Élodie se retrouvèrent devant une foule réjouie et chaleureuse.En: The "show" lasted a few minutes of pure madness and, in the end, Clément and Élodie found themselves in front of a joyful and warm crowd.Fr: "C'était incroyable !"En: "That was incredible!"Fr: lui dit Clément, les yeux pétillants.En: Clément said, his eyes sparkling.Fr: "Et toi, sublime !"En: "And you, sublime!"Fr: ajouta-t-il en riant.En: he added, laughing.Fr: Élodie, croisant ses bras gelés mais ravie, répondit : "Je crois que je viens de trouver mon article."En: Élodie, crossing her frozen but delighted arms, responded: "I think I've just found my article."Fr: Ainsi, en ce jour neigeux de printemps, Clément apprit que l'improvisation pouvait être tout aussi captivante que la préparation minutieuse d'un canular.En: Thus, on this snowy spring day, Clément learned that improvisation could be just as captivating as the meticulous preparation of a prank.Fr: Élodie découvrit, quant à elle, que les meilleures histoires naissent souvent des situations les plus inattendues.En: Élodie, for her part, discovered that the best stories often arise from the most unexpected situations.Fr: Ensemble, ils repartirent du café "Le Chat Noir", le cœur léger et rempli de souvenirs partagés, prêts pour d'autres aventures.En: Together, they left the café "Le Chat Noir", their hearts light and filled with shared memories, ready for more adventures.Fr: Fin de l'histoire.En: The end of the story. Vocabulary Words:the corner: le coinpicturesque: pittoresquethe arbor: la tonnellethe beauty: la beautéthe canvases: les toileswhimsical: farfelusteaming: fumantdetermined: déterminéebrilliant: lumineusestrange: étrangeclouded over: se couvritthe snowflakes: les flocons de neigecapricious: capricieuxthe wind: le ventthe napkins: les serviettesthe laptop: l'ordinateur portablethe prank: le canularenthusiastically: avec enthousiasmethe notes: les noteshesitant: hésitantetwirling: tournoyerthe passersby: les passantsthe reactions: les réactionsfrantically: frénétiquementthe notebook: le carnetunexpected: inattenduthe stage: la scèneorchestrated: orchestréblushing: rougissantethe attention: l'attention

Dans cet épisode, Nora vient nous parler de ses romans, de ses inspirations littéraires et de ces ambiances gothiques et sombres qu'elle adore développer dans ses univers. Publiée aux éditions Naos, le Chat Noir et Hurlevent, elle a une bibliographie riche de récits dans ce genre, que vous pouvez retrouver sur le site des maisons d'édition respectives. Vous pouvez également suivre Nora sur son compte Instagram : Noralakeiswriting. Et si vous souhaitez participer au podcast, ou échanger avec moi, en DM, je vous donne rendez-vous sur mon compte Instagram : carolinepeifferautrice

In this Season Finale, Agent Weaver and Sheriff Taylor confront the the monster responsible for the missing children, they are armed and have each others' backs, but will that be enough? This season featured: Writer J.D. Dennis as Sheriff William Henry Taylor, Supervisory Special Agent Harriett Hodgeman, Chase Newell, and additional voices. Editor K.D. Lalonde as Agent Orion B. Weaver, Chad Billings, and additional voices. Steve Rau as Senior Deputy Roy Huckabee, Special Agent Lukas Wesker, and Edward "Byers" Mars. Steven H Dennis as Mark Lanford. Langston Styles as The Pirate Captain, Le Chat Noir, and Travis Parsons. T. Davis as Deputy Hunter Washington, and Douglas Fry. Guy Gunn as Jupiter Moss. Logan F. as Ty Campbell. Trey Fuquay as Officer Troy Swinton and Officer Bill Waters. Jenny Walters as Melissa Harding. Joan Wisenbeck as Pearl Nash. Meredith Knowlton Dennis as Lottie O'Neal. Jessica Stalvey as Doris Taylor. Jane Walters as Virginia "Ginny" Turner. Christopher Bridgman as Deputy Chetan "Chet" Sisseton. Marshall Pritchett as Chip Allman. Allison Pritchett as Diana Fuquay. JB as Tanner "Tanner Tunez" Tills. Steven Dennis as Craig Roberts. Robert Moss as Agent Benton Fawkes. Mark Walters as Supervisory Special Agent Gideon Hearns. Christine Z. Dennis as Abigail Newhouse. Justin Daniels as Jack "Frohickie" Brown. Paige Ohnesorge as Cassandra Laikos. Matthew Kraus as Drew "Langley" Marlow. Mya Logan as Asia Baker. and C:D as Fred Duplas. With special thanks to Liam P. Vaughan for The Starport Inn's theme - find his music @ https://www.patreon.com/LiamPeregrine - to Kelly Brennan on Patreon, consider joining them @ http://patreon.com/TheStarportInn - and to Creature from the Haunted Sea, Produced by Roger Corman and Charles Hanawalt, and Written by Charles B Griffith. No animals, insects, or otherwise living creatures were harmed in the making of this podcast. The Starport Inn will return with Season Two, after a well earned break. In the mean time, find us at linktr.ee/thestarportinn - Consider supporting us at https://www.redbubble.com/people/thestarportinn/shop - Questions? email us at TheStarportInn@Gmail.com

It's that time of year again at Le Chat Noir.  Austin welcomes Duane Brown, Robb Smith and Kate Dailey to discuss the 10th annual Black Cat Picture Show Film Festival!

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."

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."

Fluent Fiction - French: Lost in Montmartre: A Hidden Gem Found in Paris Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/lost-in-montmartre-a-hidden-gem-found-in-paris Story Transcript:Fr: Par une matinée fraîche et lumineuse à Paris, Amélie porte son vieux chapeau préféré pour se protéger du soleil.En: On a fresh and sunny morning in Paris, Amélie wears her old favorite hat to protect herself from the sun.Fr: Elle élabore un plan pour la journée.En: She plans for the day.Fr: Aujourd'hui, elle veut découvrir l'un des quartiers les plus connus de Paris, Montmartre.En: Today, she wants to explore one of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris, Montmartre.Fr: Avec son sac à dos rempli de croissants, de cartes et de sa laine favorite, Amélie commence sa grande aventure.En: With her backpack filled with croissants, maps, and her favorite wool, Amélie begins her great adventure.Fr: Elle monte les longs escaliers de la Butte Montmartre et admire la vue.En: She climbs the long stairs of the Montmartre Hill and admires the view.Fr: Paris étend son charme devant ses yeux.En: Paris spreads its charm before her eyes.Fr: "Ah, c'est beau," murmure-t-elle.En: "Ah, it's beautiful," she murmurs.Fr: Amélie se perd dans les rues sinueuses de Montmartre.En: Amélie gets lost in the winding streets of Montmartre.Fr: Les murs colorés, les rues en plus vieux pavé, le parfum de la boulangerie locale, tout cela enchante Amélie.En: The colorful walls, the streets paved with old cobblestones, the scent of the local bakery, all enchant Amélie.Fr: Mais, petit à petit, elle a l'impression d'être dans un labyrinthe.En: But gradually, she feels like she's in a maze.Fr: Amélie se gratte la tête, confus.En: Amélie scratches her head, confused.Fr: Elle tourne à droite, puis à gauche, mais chaque rue semble semblable.En: She turns right, then left, but every street seems the same.Fr: Amélie est un peu effrayé.En: Amélie is a little scared.Fr: Pensant qu'elle pourrait demander de l'aide, elle entre dans une petite ruelle et découvre un café étrange caché derrière un grand mur en pierre.En: Thinking she could ask for help, she enters a small alley and discovers a strange café hidden behind a large stone wall.Fr: Un écriteau en bois, pendu de manière inclinée, annonce "Le Chat Noir".En: A wooden sign, hanging askew, announces "Le Chat Noir."Fr: Le café semble calme et charmant.En: The café seems calm and charming.Fr: Poussée par sa curiosité, Amélie pousse la porte et entre.En: Driven by her curiosity, Amélie pushes the door and enters.Fr: L'intérieur du café est aussi unique que son nom.En: The interior of the café is as unique as its name.Fr: Les murs sont peints en noir, avec de nombreux dessins de chats dessus.En: The walls are painted black, with many cat drawings on them.Fr: Il y a des chaises de toutes les tailles et de toutes les couleurs.En: There are chairs of all sizes and colors.Fr: Amélie est fascinée.En: Amélie is fascinated.Fr: Elle commande un chocolat chaud et s'installe dans le coin d'une fenêtre, offrant une vue parfaite sur une petite cour.En: She orders a hot chocolate and settles in a corner by a window, offering a perfect view of a small courtyard.Fr: En la regardant, elle trouve son chemin sur la carte et soupire de soulagement.En: As she looks out, she finds her way on the map and sighs in relief.Fr: Elle n'est pas si perdue après tout.En: She's not so lost after all.Fr: Peu à peu, les gens commencent à remplir le café.En: Gradually, people start filling the café.Fr: Des artistes, des poètes et même des musiciens se joignent au charme du café.En: Artists, poets, and even musicians join in the café's charm.Fr: Amélie se joint à eux, elle partage des rires et des histoires, crée des souvenirs inoubliables.En: Amélie joins them, sharing laughter and stories, creating unforgettable memories.Fr: Lorsque la nuit tombe, Amélie quitte le café avec le sourire.En: As night falls, Amélie leaves the café with a smile.Fr: Elle remercie les nouveaux amis qu'elle a rencontrés.En: She thanks the new friends she has met.Fr: Elle a peut-être pris un mauvais tour, mais finalement, elle a trouvé quelque chose de précieux.En: She may have taken a wrong turn, but in the end, she found something precious.Fr: Retournant à sa maison, Amélie se souvient de cette journée spéciale.En: Returning home, Amélie remembers this special day.Fr: Elle se perd dans Montmartre et trouve un joyau caché, le café du "Chat Noir".En: She got lost in Montmartre and found a hidden gem, the café "Le Chat Noir."Fr: Cette expérience lui apprend que parfois, se perdre peut conduire à des découvertes inattendues et merveilleuses.En: This experience teaches her that sometimes, getting lost can lead to unexpected and wonderful discoveries.Fr: La nuit tombe sur Paris.En: Night falls on Paris.Fr: Amélie retire son chapeau et le pend au crochet près de la porte.En: Amélie takes off her hat and hangs it on the hook near the door.Fr: Elle se met au lit et dit doucement à Paris "à demain".En: She goes to bed and softly says to Paris, "See you tomorrow."Fr: La journée a été longue et belle.En: The day has been long and beautiful.Fr: Demain, elle commencera une nouvelle aventure.En: Tomorrow, she will start a new adventure. Vocabulary Words:sun: soleilParis: ParisAmélie: Améliehat: chapeauneighborhoods: quartiersbackpack: sac à doscroissants: croissantsmaps: carteswool: laineadventure: aventurestairs: escaliersview: vuecharm: charmestreets: ruescobblestones: pavébakery: boulangeriemaze: labyrinthealley: ruellecafé: caféwall: mursign: écriteaudrawings: dessinschairs: chaiseswindow: fenêtrecourtyard: courlaughter: riresstories: histoiresmemories: souvenirsnight: nuitbed: lit

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.

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.

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.

 ☁️ Avant l'histoire de ce soir, prenez un moment pour vous recentrer grâce à notre citation apaisante, une source de sérénité pour votre esprit.      ✨ Ensuite, place à la séance de relaxation, pour se préparer à une nuit douce. La partie 1 de la nouvelle « Le chat noir » de Edgar Allen Poe vous laisse sans voix et vous entraine dans une sordide histoire qui mélange amour, bonté et cruauté sur fond de vice et d'excès d'alcool. Une œuvre splendide pleine de rebondissements.  Abonnez-vous pour ne pas manquer la sortie de la Partie 2/2 disponible dès le 11/12/2023 à 17H30.    Les épisodes de Dormir sans soucis sont à retrouver dans la catégorie « Livre »  « forme et santé » et « santé mentale », offrant de belles lectures, bien-être, relaxation, méditation, et des conseils bienveillants pour s'endormir rapidement. C'est votre somnifère naturel, alors profitez-en pour passer une nuit paisible.

L'association "Chats noirs et compagnie" est installée dans le Nord. Sa présidente, Sandrine Debruyne, est en ligne avec nous.

London After Midnight - Black Cat

"LE CHAT NOIR" El rey Saúl corre huyendo de los Filisteos quienes acababan de asesinar a sus tres hijos. A toda velocidad el monarca junto con su escudero corren para salvar sus vidas ¿Tendrá Dios una palabra para el rey de Israel en esta hora difícil? ¿Podrá escapar Saúl de los crueles Filisteos? ¿Dónde se encuentra David que no está protegiendo a su rey? Acompaña al Pastor Eduardo en este episodio de LA HORA DE LA TUSA a perseguir en plena batalla al rey que perdió la voz de Dios . *AUDIO DE LA TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO DE "LA HORA DE LA TUSA" TODOS LOS MIERCOLES A LAS 20 HRS COLOMBIA POR #twitch ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Producido en los estudios Smilefighter Ent. en Barranquilla, Colombia ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Puedes apoyar la producción de este podcast con tu aporte. En Colombia:- Bancolombia, Cuenta de ahorros: 91211073875 - Banco AV Villas, Cuenta de ahorros: 813722365 Fuera de Colombia: - PayPal: eduardojimeno@hotmail.com Gracias por su apoyo. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REDES SOCIALES:  ⁠https://twitter.com/EduardoJimenoR⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/eduardojimenor/⁠ ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1Eli4NXL69OeanmhVgnObRhttps://⁠ ⁠www.twitch.tv/eduardojimenor

Dans une semaine, le podcast Mystères et Légendes va être relancé !

Pluton, voici le nom du mystérieux chat noir au cœur de cette nouvelle fantastique d'Edgar Allan Poe. Publiée pour la première fois le 19 août 1843, dans l'hebdomadaire américain The Saturday Evening Post, cette histoire est susceptible de choquer. Elle contient des scènes de violences envers des animaux et de violences conjugales. Même si cette nouvelle est étudiée dans le programme scolaire du collège, ne l'écoutez pas en présence d'un public trop jeune ou non-averti. Ceci étant dit, bonne écoute de ce meilleur résumé (et abonnez-vous au podcast) !

Beaucoup en rêve et Cécile Guillot l'a fait, créer sa maison d'édition. Déjà 11 ans que la maison d'édition du Chat noir existe. Dans cet épisode on découvre les débuts fou de ce projet

Join Maria Lovelady & Michael Alan-Bailey as they chat to Paulus, The Cabaret Geek, during his run of 'Looking For Me Friend' at the Edinburgh fringe. This critically acclaimed show celebrates the wonderful body of work by the late, great Victoria Wood and we can't think of a more fitting person to do so. Paulus also takes us on a journey through the history of cabaret itself and offers tips for budding performers. We also find out who Michael threw his knickers at last weekend, have a guess who and then listen to find out... What are you waiting for? Grab your tickets for 'Looking For Me Friend' now! Links below… https://thecabaretgeek.com/ https://www.liverpooltheatrefestival.com/ Appear on the show and leave us a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/TwiceNightlyThePodcast Get in touch - twicenightlythepodcast@gmail.com IG - twicenightlytheatrepodcast Twitter - @twicenightlypod Facebook - Twice Nightly: The Podcast Brought to you by Frame This Presents... Key words: Cabaret, West End, Vaudeville, Broadway, Queer Performance, Dinnerladies, Stand up, Comedian, Comediennes, Cabaret Performer, Le Chat Noir, Let's Do it, The Ballad of Barry and Freda, The Royal Variety Performance, Tom Jones, The Minnack Theatre, The Crazy Coqs

Want to know how a speakeasy became the coolest hotbed of new theatre in Augusta? Want to know the place to be for shows, film, stage plays, and this Halloween's awesome and maybe a little crazy, maybe a little weird, but definitely fun Black Cat Carnival? One of my favorite people, Krys Bailey Executive Director of Le Chat Noir, stops by to talk about this season, homesteading, and more.Follow Le Chat Noir on Instagram - @lcnaugusta Check out their website: lcnaugsta.com Like them on Facebook Check out performances on YouTube Links from the Show:Black Cat Picture Show Film Festival Schrodinger's Cat Improv Support the showIf you'd like to support this podcast, you can buy me a coffee HERE. Check out the "Keep the Darkness at Bay" Journal & T's Here I'd also appreciate it if you left a 5 star rating and review for the podcast on whichever platform you listen on. Thank You! Special Thanks To: @jasonthe29th - Logo Design @jacobjohnsontunes - Theme Music Pod Decks - Fast 5 Questions DISCLAIMER: Some of the links here are affiliate links, which means I will make a small commission if you click them and make a qualifying purchase, at no extra cost to you :) *I hereby solemnly swear to only promote products and services I actually love and use in my podcast and everyday life!

Daf Yummy Épisode 254. Yoma 66 : Le chat noir (Poe) / La philosophie devenue folle by Myriam Ackermann Sommer

On this episode of Ghost-Spider Groupies: Curt and Abigail talk about Spider-Gwen's first mini-series, given the arc name, Most Wanted? (Spider-Gwen #1-5). It's got Vulture, it's got Punisher, it's got LE CHAT NOIR. We also talk about upcoming new comics for Gwen. E-mail us at ghostspidergroupies@gmail.com or tweet us @GSGroupies with any questions or thoughts on the show and next week's arc Greater Power. Thanks for listening. Spider-Gwen/Ghost-Spider Reading List and Where to Buy This week's comic: Spider-Gwen (2015) Vol. 0 - Most Wanted? Next week's comic: Spider-Gwen (2015) Vol. 1 - Greater Power Heroes Reborn: Night-Gwen Spider-Gwen Omnibus Hardcover Music: Green Daze by Audionautix http://audionautix.com

durée : 00:03:32 - Le producteur du jour de France Bleu Lorraine Nord - A seulement 10 minutes à pied du Centre Pompidou, au cœur de Metz, le Restaurant Le Chat Noir vous accueille pour ses plats à emporter au 30 Rue Pasteur.

Het is tijd voor de liefde! In de tweede Valentijns-special van 'Klassieke Mysteries' blijven Ab en Rebecca in la cité de l'amour: Parijs, voor het liefdesleven van componist Erik Satie. Satie was een excentrieke bohemien en zonderling, die tijdens zijn bijbaantje als cabaretpianist bij café Le Chat Noir smoorverliefd wordt op kunstenares Suzanne Valadon. De passie tussen de twee spat er vanaf, maar als Suzanne plots vertrekt, valt het sprookje uiteen. Iets wat de smoorverliefde Erik maar moeilijk kan verkroppen... Was er sprake van een ongezonde obsessie?

Welcome to short play podcast. This podcast has adapted a one act play originally performed at Le Chat Noir in Augusta GA for an audio format. Written by Marty Matfess, performed by Marty, Krys Bailey, Annaleesa Rogers, Julianna Johnston, and Courtney Danielle Westman. This play is a light and breezy comedic play following the life changes of our hero-Buttercup. Enjoy the show!

Welcome to short play podcast. This podcast has adapted a one act play originally performed at Le Chat Noir in Augusta GA for an audio format. Written by Marty Matfess, performed by Marty, Krys Bailey, Annaleesa Rogers, Julianna Johnston, and Courtney Danielle Westman. This play is a light and breezy comedic play following the life changes of our hero-Buttercup. Enjoy the show! Music by Bensound.com

Welcome to short play podcast. This podcast has adapted a one act play originally performed at Le Chat Noir in Augusta GA for an audio format. Written by Marty Matfess, performed by Marty, Krys Bailey, Annaleesa Rogers, Julianna Johnston, and Courtney Danielle Westman. This play is a light and breezy comedic play following the life changes of our hero-Buttercup. Enjoy the show! Music by Bensound.com

My guest today is Paulus The Cabaret Geek. Known for his 2018 and 2019 appearances as one of the judges on the BBC talent show "All Together Now," Paulus is (at his core) a cabaret performer, working in the world of variety entertainment for 30 years. He has performed in musicals, plays and on television, but his passion for cabaret, vaudeville, review and music hall has dominated his career, whether it be as a performer, promoter, agent or producer. Drag has been a recurring theme in Paulus's workmen's cutting his teeth at the world famous Madam Jojo's in 1999 as Trinity Million. He made his New York debut in 2005 at both Don't Tell Mama and Birdland. He has performed at venues throughout the world.In this episode Paulus talks about his favorite history, Cabaret.Today in part 2 of my interview with Paulus The Cabaret Geek we go deep into the bigger implications of cabaret, historically and today. If you haven't done so already, we strongly recommend you go back and listen to part 1 of this interview. Be sure to stick around to the end for the big reveal of Paulus singing "Tribe" from the forthcoming "Making of Paulus," You won't want to miss it!Paulus's YoutubePaulus websiteUp Yer Arts podcastPaulus on social media:InstagramFacebookTwitterResources:Le Chat NoirRudolphe SalisThe Cabaret by Lisa AppignanesiJohn MajorMy Old Man: A Personal History of Music HallSpace Oddity, David BowieOtto DixPirate Jenny, 5 versions:Lotte LenyaB. ArthurNina SimoneAmanda PalmerSasha VelourPop Culture:Cabaret, 1972 film starring Liza MinelliMovies/Series that Break the 4th WallMichaela Coel, Chewing GumDeadpoolPhoebe Waller-Bridge, FleabagTo Support Armchair Historians:PatreonKo-fiSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/armchairhistorians)

My guest today is Paulus The Cabaret Geek. Known for his 2018 and 2019 appearances as one of the judges on the BBC talent show "All Together Now," Paulus is (at his core) a cabaret performer, working in the world of variety entertainment for 30 years. He has performed in musicals, plays and on television, but his passion for cabaret, vaudeville, review and music hall has dominated his career, whether it be as a performer, promoter, agent or producer. Drag has been a recurring theme in Paulus's workmen's cutting his teeth at the world famous Madam Jojo's in 1999 as Trinity Million. He made his New York debut in 2005 at both Don't Tell Mama and Birdland. He has performed at venues throughout the world.In this episode Paulus talks about his favorite history, Cabaret.Paulus's YoutubePaulus websiteUp Yer Arts podcastPaulus on social media:InstagramFacebookTwitterResources:Le Chat NoirRudolphe SalisThe Cabaret by Lisa AppignanesiCabaret, 1972 film starring Liza MinelliTo Support Armchair Historians:PatreonKo-fiSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/armchairhistorians)

Ce soir, Somnifère vous conte la seconde partie du Chat noir, le classique d'Edgar Allan Poe. Le narrateur de cette bien sombre nouvelle a trouvé un nouveau chat pour remplacer le précédent, mais se met bientôt à le détester également... Soutenez Somnifère · S'abonner à la version premium de Somnifère, c'est contribuer à faire vivre ce podcast et lui permettre d'exister et de rester indépendant. En échange, vous bénéficiez de l'accès à un espace privé pour écouter le podcast sans pub et sans l'intro de présentation : chaque épisode commence directement par l'intro quotidienne. Vous pouvez écouter cette version premium depuis votre espace personnel ou directement depuis Apple Podcast, Castbox, Google podcast, etc. Plus d'infos : https://m.audiomeans.fr/s/S-oKNpDuEo
 Les oreillers Paul · Merci https://www.lesoreillerspaul.fr - oreillers à mémoire de forme qui s'adaptent à la morphologie de votre visage de soutenir ce podcast, et bénéficiez d'une réduction de -15% sur votre panier avec le code « somnifere » (sans accent). 
 Bonne nuit perso · Pour un bonne nuit perso dans le podcast, deux possibilités : taguez @somniferelepodcast sur vos réseaux sociaux (story insta, FB, etc) puis envoyez-moi un message sur Insta ou FB en me précisant votre prénom et le nom de votre ville, ou abonnez-vous au club et envoyez-moi un mail à morphee@somniferelepodcast.com.
 Insta : https://www.instagram.com/somniferelepodcast/ FB : https://www.facebook.com/somniferelepodcast Et si vous aimez ce podcast, merci de le soutenir en vous y abonnant, en le notant ou en laissant un commentaire sur la plateforme sur laquelle vous l'écoutez

Ce soir, Somnifère vous emmène dans les recoins sombres de l'âme humaine avec la célèbre nouvelle d'Edgar Allan Poe “Le Chat Noir”, traduite par Charles Baudelaire. La seconde partie sera à découvrir dans le podcast de dimanche soir. Soutenez Somnifère · S'abonner à la version premium de Somnifère, c'est contribuer à faire vivre ce podcast et lui permettre d'exister et de rester indépendant. En échange, vous bénéficiez de l'accès à un espace privé pour écouter le podcast sans pub et sans l'intro de présentation : chaque épisode commence directement par l'intro quotidienne. Vous pouvez écouter cette version premium depuis votre espace personnel ou directement depuis Apple Podcast, Castbox, Google podcast, etc. Plus d'infos : https://m.audiomeans.fr/s/S-oKNpDuEo
 Les oreillers Paul · Merci https://www.lesoreillerspaul.fr - oreillers à mémoire de forme qui s'adaptent à la morphologie de votre visage de soutenir ce podcast, et bénéficiez d'une réduction de -15% sur votre panier avec le code « somnifere » (sans accent). 
 Bonne nuit perso · Pour un bonne nuit perso dans le podcast, deux possibilités : taguez @somniferelepodcast sur vos réseaux sociaux (story insta, FB, etc) puis envoyez-moi un message sur Insta ou FB en me précisant votre prénom et le nom de votre ville, ou abonnez-vous au club et envoyez-moi un mail à morphee@somniferelepodcast.com.
 Insta : https://www.instagram.com/somniferelepodcast/ FB : https://www.facebook.com/somniferelepodcast Et si vous aimez ce podcast, merci de le soutenir en vous y abonnant, en le notant ou en laissant un commentaire sur la plateforme sur laquelle vous l'écoutez

Op 19 augustus 2020 bestaat het Nederlands cabaret precies 125 jaar. Op 19 augustus 1895 speelde Eduard Jacobs de eerste professionele cabaretvoorstelling. Naar aanleiding daarvan starten we met een nieuwe podcastreeks over de geschiedenis van het Nederlands cabaret. Een jaar lang kijken we naar de belangrijkste ontwikkelingen en personen van de afgelopen 125 jaar. Maandelijks nemen we een decennium onder de loep met tussendoor specials over specifieke onderwerpen of personen. Hiervoor praten we ook met kenners. Daarbij hebben we het ook over de buitenlandse invloeden op het cabaret en dan moeten we in deze eerste aflevering natuurlijk wel beginnen bij de bron. Daarvoor moeten we naar Frankrijk. Naar Parijs. Of om preciezer te zijn, Montmartre. Van daaruit is er een rechte lijn te trekken van Rodolphe Salis naar de Chat Noir naar Aristide Bruant naar Eduard Jacobs, onze eerste cabaretier. Voor de link naar de voorstelling en shownotes, zie Zwartekat.nl/podcast Muziek: Marcel Harteveld Meer weten over Zwartekat? Check Zwartekat.nl

This Week: Krys & Robb join us on behalf on Augusta's "Punk" art scene. Of course, you can no longer call it punk because they've created two great attractions for everyone downtown Augusta Ga: Le Chat Noir & The Black Cat Picture Show. Le Chat is a local theatre and the Black Cat Picture Show is an INTERNATIONAL film festival that receives hundreds of submissions from all around the world.    Presented By Nancy Powell Real Estate Broker @DowntownAugustaBroker   Beer is Brought to You By Savannah River Brewery (New Beers in the Taproom Now!) SavannahRiverBrew.Com   Community Partners: The Little Guide to Augusta & TheClubhou.se at the Cyber Center. New!: 2nd City Distilling & Durty Gurl Cocktail Mixers.   Learn More and Shop Merch @ AugustaPodcasts.com  

This Week: Krys & Robb join us on behalf on Augusta's "Punk" art scene. Of course, you can no longer call it punk because they've created two great attractions for everyone downtown Augusta Ga: Le Chat Noir & The Black Cat Picture Show. Le Chat is a local theatre and the Black Cat Picture Show is an INTERNATIONAL film festival that receives hundreds of submissions from all around the world.    Presented By Nancy Powell Real Estate Broker @DowntownAugustaBroker   Beer is Brought to You By Savannah River Brewery (New Beers in the Taproom Now!) SavannahRiverBrew.Com   Community Partners: The Little Guide to Augusta & TheClubhou.se at the Cyber Center. New!: 2nd City Distilling & Durty Gurl Cocktail Mixers.   Learn More and Shop Merch @ AugustaPodcasts.com  

[POPCAST #40]PopCie aime les chats ! Et mine de rien, ces petites boules de poils ont su laisser leur griffe dans la pop culture. Vous ne nous croyez pas ? Alors, écoutez ça : • LE CHAT NOIR : vous n'êtes pas superstitieux ? Edgar Allan Poe va vous faire changer d'avis avec ce classique de la littérature fantastique.https://www.senscritique.com/livre/Le_Chat_noir/86067 • CATWOMAN : retour sur la plus féline des adversaires (alliées ?) du Chevalier noir.https://www.senscritique.com/groupe/Catwoman/3271 • Quand on vit dans un Japon féodal-futuriste et qu'on veut se faire une calzone, qui c'est qu'on appelle ? SAMOURAÏ PIZZA CATShttps://www.senscritique.com/serie/Samourai_Pizza_Cats/248709 • SIMON'S CAT : il est mignon, il fait plein de bêtises, mais l'essayer c'est l'adopter. Découvrez le fidèle compagnon du dessinateur Simon Tofield.https://www.senscritique.com/groupe/Simon_s_Cat/7169#page-1/universe-all/ PopCie revient le mardi 23 juin, 18h30 sur Ouest Track Radio, avec un nouveau sujet tout beau, tout pop'.

Arts Weekly Radio Show and Podcast—Listen each week as we pull back the curtain on Arts, Artists and people who are working hard to make your playing easy. This week Brenda Durant covers events for the 1st week-end of the New Year—Cirque Du Soleil Presents Ovo! At the James Brown Arena and Poison Peach 2020 Film Festival at the Imperial Theatre. Saturday January 4 features Horror Night! The rest of the show is a peek into 2020- Featuring An Evening with Branford Marsalis on Thursday January 16 at the Maxwell Theatre. We also covered: The Augusta Symphony Gala, Tuesday Music Live, The Business Of Being an Artist class at the Gertrude Herbert, facilitated by Staci Swider, Burlesque at Le Chat Noir and more… The Show airs on Saturday mornings at 9:30 on Smooth Jazz 92.3 FM or catch the podcast here

From a Movement For a People’s Party, Nick Brana joins us to talk about how the Democratic Party let us down and became a party for the corporate elites! Nick also talks about the delegates and super delegates process and how it’s similar to the Party Bosses! The Dispatch: Why blaming Third Parties is complicity to the binary that led us to where we are now. NEW LIVE STAND UP COMEDY DATES November 22: Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA November 23: The Juggling Gypsy Cafe in Wilmington, NC November 29: Wunderkammer Company in Ft. Wayne, IN November 30: C-U Comedy Club inside Soma Ultra Lounge in Champaign, IL December 3: Puddler’s Hall in Milwaukee, WI December 4: Communication in Madison, WI December 5: nightshop in Bloomington, IL December 7: Club Underground at Spring Street Tavern in Minneapolis, MN December 21: Glitter Box Theater in Pittsburgh PA December 31: New Year’s Eve Open Stage Party & Mic at Hambone’s in Pittsburgh PA January 4: Comedy Closet in Columbia, SC Patreon>>http://bit.ly/SupportKrish 1 Time Donation>>http://bit.ly/1TimeDIYDonation The Dispatch>>http://bit.ly/UnreleasedKrish Weekly Newsletter>>http://bit.ly/WeeklyKrish --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/taboo-table-talk/support

From Popular Resistance, Kevin Zeese goes over the history of the coup in Venezuela and how their election was far better than the United States! Visit: www.popularresistance.org NEW LIVE STAND UP COMEDY DATES November 15: The Birdhouse in Knoxville, TN November 16: Gypsy Circus Cider Company in Johnson City, TN November 20: Mother Bar + Kitchen in Atlanta, GA November 21: House Show in Charlotte, NC November 22: Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA November 23: The Juggling Gypsy Cafe in Wilmington, NC November 29: Wunderkammer Company in Ft. Wayne, IN November 30: C-U Comedy Club inside Soma Ultra Lounge in Champaign, IL December 3: Puddler’s Hall in Milwaukee, WI December 4: Communication in Madison, WI December 5: nightshop in Bloomington, IL December 7: Club Underground at Spring Street Tavern in Minneapolis, MN December 21: Glitter Box Theater in Pittsburgh PA Patreon>>http://bit.ly/SupportKrish 1 Time Donation>>http://bit.ly/1TimeDIYDonation The Dispatch>>http://bit.ly/UnreleasedKrish Weekly Newsletter>>http://bit.ly/WeeklyKrish --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/taboo-table-talk/support

The Grayzone Project’s Max Bluementhal was recently arrested on false charges because he dared covered the imperialist coup in Venezuela and help the Embassy Protectors. What does this say about the state of the American Democracy. NEW LIVE STAND UP COMEDY DATES November 7: Kafe Kerouac in Columbus, OH November 8: The Bard’s Town Theater (upstairs) in Louisville, KY November 9: Monongalia Arts Center in Morgantown, WV November 13: Castleburg Brewery in Richmond, VA November 14: The BLOCK Off Biltmore in Asheville, NC November 15: The Birdhouse in Knoxville, TN November 16: Gypsy Circus Cider Company in Johnson City, TN November 20: Mother Bar + Kitchen in Atlanta, GA November 21: House Show in Charlotte, NC November 22: Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA November 23: The Juggling Gypsy Cafe in Wilmington, NC Patreon>>http://bit.ly/SupportKrish 1 Time Donation>>http://bit.ly/1TimeDIYDonation The Dispatch>>http://bit.ly/UnreleasedKrish Weekly Newsletter>>http://bit.ly/WeeklyKrish --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/taboo-table-talk/support

l était une fois… une Reine Tagada qui s'appelait TagaDingo. Elle était tellement dingo d’Halloween qu’elle voulait de jolies citrouilles pour décorer son château. Alors elle alla à l’école maléfique pour apprendre à faire des citrouilles-qui-filent-la-trouille...Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

A l’école, le jour d’Halloween, Crocobarjo se rendit compte qu’il n’y avait qu’un chat noir dans la cour de récréation... Étrange, se dit-il, mais il décida d’aller lui parler quand même... Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

Il était une fois, une bande de Dragivampires qui s’amusaient à faire peur à tous les animaux qu’ils voyaient…Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

Il était une fois… CrocoBarjo qui était tellement barjo qu’il voulait conduire le Train Fantôme, même s’il n’avait pas son permis...Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

Il était une fois… 5 dragibus transformés en Dragivampires qui vont à l’École Maléfique apprendre la magie. C’est l’heure du goûter et les Dragivampires vont à la cantine. Et là, qu’est-ce qu’ils voient ? Un chat noir qui fait la tête devant sa gamelle de croquettes...Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

Il était une fois, la fraise Tagadingo qui voulait rejoindre son amie Dragivampire pour fêter Halloween. Elle alla à la gare, quand elle se rendit compte que le train n’était pas comme d’habitude… Écoutez la suite Voir Acast.com/privacy pour les informations sur la vie privée et l'opt-out.

Au sommaire de cette spéciale classiques : -Retour sur 4 longs métrages sortis chez ELEPHANT FILMS, LE CHATEAU DE LA TERREUR (1951) & L'HOMME AUX 1000 VISAGES (1957) de Joseph Pevney, LE CHAT NOIR (1934) d'Edgar G. Ulmer & NIGHT MONSTER (1942) de Ford Beebe ;-Echanges sur le premier film de zombies de l'histoire du cinéma, WHITE ZOMBIE (1932) de Victor Halperin (BACH FILMS) ;-Analyse d'EXTASE (1933) de Gustav Machatýa (BACH FILMS) ;-Evocation de EL VAMPIRO Y EL SEXO (1969), une rareté de René Cardona également éditée par BACH FILMS ;-Débat à couteaux tirés autour de deux slashers canadiens de la grande époque sortis chez RIMINI, LE BAL DE L'HORREUR (1980) de Paul Lynch et HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME (1981) de Jack Lee Thompson. Bonne écoute à toutes et à tous.

If you’ve recently moved to Bellingham, or are wanting to check things out to see what all the buzz is about zip codes 98225, 6, 7, and 9... this show is for you! Whether you are a young professional, fully-entrenched in family life, or are getting out of the rat race of metropolitan life, let AJ and Chris be the first to welcome you to Bellingham! We’ve got a boatload of places to go and things to do here in this wonderful town of ours.AJ has a Clarification from last week’s episode:25:40 in- whats the show pops- Here come the brides (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Here_Come_the_Brides)-*Here Come the Brides* is an American (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) comedy (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Television_comedy) Western (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_(genre)) series from Screen Gems (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Screen_Gems) that aired on the ABC (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Broadcasting_Company) television network from September 25, 1968 to April 3, 1970. The series was loosely based upon the Mercer Girls project (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercer_Girls), Asa Mercer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asa_Mercer)'s efforts to bring civilization to old Seattle (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle) in the 1860s by importing marriageable women from the east coast cities of the United States, where the ravages of the American Civil War (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Civil_War) left those towns short of men. 5:00 in - Bellingham: WA, SC, MN, MA, but NO MAINEThanks, AJ’s mom!New to town: College graduate, young and solo 20-something? AKA THE FRESH BREW*(Correction)The Racket - https://www.facebook.com/theracketbham/* The Ruckus Room - https://www.ruckusbham.com/* Temple Bar - http://www.templebarbellingham.com/* Le Chat Noir - https://www.blackcatbellingham.com/* Hana Teriyaki - https://www.yelp.com/biz/hana-teriyaki-bellingham* Cafe Rumba - http://caferumbabham.com/ * Salsa Nights at Cafe Rumba 1st & 3rd Saturdays of every month, 9:30pm-midnight! Starts with an intro lesson, followed by the best mix of Latin music. $4 cover, all ages, beer/wine available for 21+* Fairhaven Runners - https://fairhavenrunners.com/* Vital Climbing Gym - https://www.vitalclimbinggym.com/bellingham* Whatcom Mountain Biking Club - https://wmbcmtb.org/New to town: 30-something family with a couple of kids? AKA THE GRIND* Lake Padden Dog Park* Whatcom Farmers Co-Op https://www.chsnw.com/ * Fairhaven Park/ splash pads for the kids* Upper Whatcom Falls Park * Pump track * COB is looking to build other pump tracks in our Mountain Bike cult town- Birchwood park (https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article229586334.html) * Derby Pond (under 14 dedicated fishing hole) * Vegan/allergy friendly * Soy House * Wild Oat Bakery* Perch & Play Indoor Playground & Cafe - https://perchandplay.com/* Summit Trampoline Park - http://summitbellingham.com/* Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema - https://www.bellingham.org/press-releases/fairhaven-outdoor-cinema-2019-summer-movies-in-the-park/New to town: 50-something who sold their home in California or Seattle and bought a place up here AKA * Aslan Depot - https://aslandepot.com/* Archer’s Alehouse - https://www.thearcheralehouse.com/* Primer Coffee / Elizabeth Station - https://www.elizabethstation.es/ * “What a 7-Eleven would be like if there was one in the Shire.”* Keenan’s at the Pier - https://curiocollection3.hilton.com/en/hotels/washington/the-chrysalis-inn-and-spa-bellingham-curio-collection-by-hilton-BLITTQQ/dining/index.html* Woods Roastery on Lakeway - https://woodscoffee.com/location/woods-roastery/* Bellingham Farmers Market - Downtown Saturday AM, Barkley Village Wednesday PM - https://www.bellinghamfarmers.org/* Elizabeth Park Summer Concert Series - Thursday evenings - https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethParkSummerConcerts/Where do you go when “you gotta get a guy?” * Watch/clock repair - Time Concepts - https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-concepts-bellingham* Plumbing - Favinger Plumbing (full disclosure - AJ's wife used to work there) - https://www.favingerplumbing.com/* Tech Coaching - Chris Powell - https://www.chrispowell.co/* Photography - AJ Barse - https://ajbarse.com (https://ajbarse.com/)* Tool rentals and everything for Home Improvement - Hardware Sales - https://www.hardwaresales.net/“Community Powered | KMRE, 102.3 FM | and streaming at kmre.org” (http://kmre.org/)

If you’ve recently moved to Bellingham, or are wanting to check things out to see what all the buzz is about zip codes 98225, 6, 7, and 9... this show is for you! Whether you are a young professional, fully-entrenched in family life, or are getting out of the rat race of metropolitan life, let AJ and Chris be the first to welcome you to Bellingham! We’ve got a boatload of places to go and things to do here in this wonderful town of ours.AJ has a Clarification from last week’s episode:25:40 in- whats the show pops- Here come the brides (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Here_Come_the_Brides)-*Here Come the Brides* is an American (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) comedy (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Television_comedy) Western (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_(genre)) series from Screen Gems (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Screen_Gems) that aired on the ABC (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Broadcasting_Company) television network from September 25, 1968 to April 3, 1970. The series was loosely based upon the Mercer Girls project (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercer_Girls), Asa Mercer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asa_Mercer)'s efforts to bring civilization to old Seattle (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle) in the 1860s by importing marriageable women from the east coast cities of the United States, where the ravages of the American Civil War (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Civil_War) left those towns short of men. 5:00 in - Bellingham: WA, SC, MN, MA, but NO MAINEThanks, AJ’s mom!New to town: College graduate, young and solo 20-something? AKA THE FRESH BREW*(Correction)The Racket - https://www.facebook.com/theracketbham/* The Ruckus Room - https://www.ruckusbham.com/* Temple Bar - http://www.templebarbellingham.com/* Le Chat Noir - https://www.blackcatbellingham.com/* Hana Teriyaki - https://www.yelp.com/biz/hana-teriyaki-bellingham* Cafe Rumba - http://caferumbabham.com/ * Salsa Nights at Cafe Rumba 1st & 3rd Saturdays of every month, 9:30pm-midnight! Starts with an intro lesson, followed by the best mix of Latin music. $4 cover, all ages, beer/wine available for 21+* Fairhaven Runners - https://fairhavenrunners.com/* Vital Climbing Gym - https://www.vitalclimbinggym.com/bellingham* Whatcom Mountain Biking Club - https://wmbcmtb.org/New to town: 30-something family with a couple of kids? AKA THE GRIND* Lake Padden Dog Park* Whatcom Farmers Co-Op https://www.chsnw.com/ * Fairhaven Park/ splash pads for the kids* Upper Whatcom Falls Park * Pump track * COB is looking to build other pump tracks in our Mountain Bike cult town- Birchwood park (https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/local/article229586334.html) * Derby Pond (under 14 dedicated fishing hole) * Vegan/allergy friendly * Soy House * Wild Oat Bakery* Perch & Play Indoor Playground & Cafe - https://perchandplay.com/* Summit Trampoline Park - http://summitbellingham.com/* Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema - https://www.bellingham.org/press-releases/fairhaven-outdoor-cinema-2019-summer-movies-in-the-park/New to town: 50-something who sold their home in California or Seattle and bought a place up here AKA * Aslan Depot - https://aslandepot.com/* Archer’s Alehouse - https://www.thearcheralehouse.com/* Primer Coffee / Elizabeth Station - https://www.elizabethstation.es/ * “What a 7-Eleven would be like if there was one in the Shire.”* Keenan’s at the Pier - https://curiocollection3.hilton.com/en/hotels/washington/the-chrysalis-inn-and-spa-bellingham-curio-collection-by-hilton-BLITTQQ/dining/index.html* Woods Roastery on Lakeway - https://woodscoffee.com/location/woods-roastery/* Bellingham Farmers Market - Downtown Saturday AM, Barkley Village Wednesday PM - https://www.bellinghamfarmers.org/* Elizabeth Park Summer Concert Series - Thursday evenings - https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethParkSummerConcerts/Where do you go when “you gotta get a guy?” * Watch/clock repair - Time Concepts - https://www.yelp.com/biz/time-concepts-bellingham* Plumbing - Favinger Plumbing (full disclosure - AJ's wife used to work there) - https://www.favingerplumbing.com/* Tech Coaching - Chris Powell - https://www.chrispowell.co/* Photography - AJ Barse - https://ajbarse.com (https://ajbarse.com/)* Tool rentals and everything for Home Improvement - Hardware Sales - https://www.hardwaresales.net/“Community Powered | KMRE, 102.3 FM | and streaming at kmre.org” (http://kmre.org/)

Often times it may be hard for an African-American men to be placed in leading roles in films, TV, or even stage plays. Le Chat Noir is hosting the play Voice in my soul, Yearning to Breathe Free. This one act play shows the struggles of a black actor trying to make it. Actors Samuel Lee Fudge and Reggie Freeman stopped by Television Park to talk to me about the play.

A short play done on stage at Le Chat Noir in Augusta GA "Quickies Short Play Festival". Written and Directed by Stephen Gilliam

Claude Debussy hield van de natuur maar bleef z’n hele leven een stadsmus, trouw aan Parijs en zijn stamcafé Le Chat Noir op Montmartre. Hij ontmoette er zijn kunstenaarsvrienden om er te discussiëren bij een glas absint. Stapels brieven getuigen van talloze vriendschappen. Maar op het drukke parcours van de vriendschap was Claude Debussy, net als in de liefde, een virtuoze brokkenpiloot. Zijn meningen waren gezouten, zijn kritieken gepeperd. En de tol? Die heette eenzaamheid.

Host Brenda Durant speaks with Jezibell Anat, organizer of the Quickies Short Play Festival, celebrating local Augusta playwrights, directors, and actors. Two shows, April 20 & 21, at Le Chat Noir in Downtown.

We have to ask the question if War is ONLY caused by men. Recorded live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA in November 2017. Written, Edited & Filmed by Krish Mohan

We have to ask the question if War is ONLY caused by men. Recorded live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA in November 2017. Written, Edited & Filmed by Krish Mohan

A way we've cross contaminated our bubbles is music! Rock 'N' Roll and Rap music have influences from a common thread that you might not expect. Listen here! Recorded live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA! Written, Edited & Filmed by Krish Mohan

A way we've cross contaminated our bubbles is music! Rock 'N' Roll and Rap music have influences from a common thread that you might not expect. Listen here! Recorded live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA! Written, Edited & Filmed by Krish Mohan

Geel is a small village in Belgium that treats the mentally ill the way they should be! It's different than the way most of Western society attempts to treat it. How? Watch this new Stand Up Comedy clip from Krish Mohan! Recorded Live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA!

Geel is a small village in Belgium that treats the mentally ill the way they should be! It's different than the way most of Western society attempts to treat it. How? Watch this new Stand Up Comedy clip from Krish Mohan! Recorded Live at Le Chat Noir in Augusta, GA!

Arts Weekly Radio Show and Podcast. Special Guest this week is Sandie Crowley to talk about Artus. Listen to learn about Arts, Artists and people working hard to make your playin' easy. Two ways to listen: Radio on Saturday Morning at 9:30 on Smooth Jazz 92.3 FM or Podcast via our website AugustaArts.com or iTunes. After covering events for this week-end Springboard, Vintage Market Days of NE Georgia, Augusta Mini Theatre, Inc. performance of All God's Children Got Guns, Tales from the Box at Le Chat Noir, and Candlelight Jazz Concert, Augusta, Ga- a great week-end; I spoke with Sandie. Talking with Sandie was such fun--we covered Artus: a cooperative of artists and business minds working together to create art, use art for good and to earn a living working together. Be sure to catch the show. We chatted so long I only had 60 seconds for the last segment. Ooops! #augustaarts Brenda Durant The Greater Augusta Arts Council

Arts Weekly Radio Show and Podcast Special Guest Jan Hodges Burch with Augusta Ballet Listen two ways: Radio Show on Saturday morning at 9:30 on Smooth Jazz 92.3 FM or Podcast via our website or iTunes www.AugustaArts.com It was great to catch up with Jan who took a break from setting up the Holiday Tour of Homes to talk about the weekend tour and upcoming Augusta Ballet Events: Everyone can Dance Camp and Philadanco! The Philadelphia Dance Company coming to the The Bell Auditorium on February 4th. Wow. So, take the tour of homes on River Island, sign up your kids for Dance Camp during the Holiday Break and buy yourself some tickets (good presents) to see the February show! Of course I covered events for this week-end and beyond. The Colton Ballet Company is bringing the Nutcracker back to the Imperial Theatre over Thanksgiving week-end, last year I brought my 5 year old grandson and he was mesmerized. You can: Meet an author, take a yoga class at the Swamp, see a play at Le Chat Noir, enjoy a piano recital, or experience the Urban Expressionism show at Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center. Sunday is Morris Museum of Art "Music at the Morris" with Garden City Chorus. The choice is yours. All these events are on our Calendar, go to www.AugustaArts.com to learn more, buy tickets, and invite your friends. Tickets make good presents. The Greater Augusta Arts Council Happy Georgia Gives Day 2016 Brenda #Augustaarts #havesomefun #planahead

Sinónimo de bohemia y cosmopolitismo, París ha sido taller y patio de recreo para todas las leyendas de la canción francesa en cualquier época, y también ha acogido a cantantes de todo el mundo en sus calles. Por eso, en el primer recorrido de Las Calles del Ritmo por París, que abarca desde finales del s. XIX a los años 60 del s. XX, sonarán Django Reinhardt, Yves Montand, Edith Piaf, Juliette Greco, Jacques Dutronc o Gainsbourg, además de Josephine Baker, Miles Davis o Jacques Brel. Todo ello, entre el humo de garitos que dejaron huella en la ciudad como Le Chat Noir, Moulin Rouge, Tabou o Palladium.

01. Joachim Garraud - Le Laboratoire 02. Joachim Garraud - DJ Play That Beat 03. Chuckie - Want You Back 04. Joachim Garraud - UP Down Stop GO 05. Lunde Bros - Slapper 06. Skrillex And Diplo ft. Bunji Garlin - Jungle Bae 07. Joachim Garraud - Just The Beat Bro 08. Joachim Garraud - Le Voyage 09. Robbie Rivera - The Scream 10. Joachim Garraud - Street's Sound 11. Joachim Garraud ft. A Girl & A Gun - Maximus 12 Ruben Kusters - Selectah 13. Joachim Garraud - Cut This S##t 14. Joachim Garraud & Alesia - Hook 15. Kryder ft. Cajmere - Perculator 16. The Prodigy - Smack My Bitch up 17. Joachim Garraud - 6 Rue Caumartin PARIS, Nov89

01. Joachim Garraud - Le Laboratoire 02. Joachim Garraud - DJ Play That Beat 03. Chuckie - Want You Back 04. Joachim Garraud - UP Down Stop GO 05. Lunde Bros - Slapper 06. Skrillex And Diplo ft. Bunji Garlin - Jungle Bae 07. Joachim Garraud - Just The Beat Bro 08. Joachim Garraud - Le Voyage 09. Robbie Rivera - The Scream 10. Joachim Garraud - Street's Sound 11. Joachim Garraud ft. A Girl & A Gun - Maximus 12 Ruben Kusters - Selectah 13. Joachim Garraud - Cut This S##t 14. Joachim Garraud & Alesia - Hook 15. Kryder ft. Cajmere - Perculator 16. The Prodigy - Smack My Bitch up 17. Joachim Garraud - 6 Rue Caumartin PARIS, Nov89

01. Joachim Garraud - Le Laboratoire 02. Joachim Garraud - DJ Play That Beat 03. Chuckie - Want You Back 04. Joachim Garraud - UP Down Stop GO 05. Lunde Bros - Slapper 06. Skrillex And Diplo ft. Bunji Garlin - Jungle Bae 07. Joachim Garraud - Just The Beat Bro 08. Joachim Garraud - Le Voyage 09. Robbie Rivera - The Scream 10. Joachim Garraud - Street's Sound 11. Joachim Garraud ft. A Girl & A Gun - Maximus 12 Ruben Kusters - Selectah 13. Joachim Garraud - Cut This S##t 14. Joachim Garraud & Alesia - Hook 15. Kryder ft. Cajmere - Perculator 16. The Prodigy - Smack My Bitch up 17. Joachim Garraud - 6 Rue Caumartin PARIS, Nov89

Jon Patch chats with William Braden, author of the Henri, le Chat Noir. This gift book is a collection of photos and quotes from Henri, the existential cat whose ennui has captivated people all over the world. Through his series of short films and interactions with an enthusiastic online community, Henri's contemplation and disillusion with the world has struck a chord with millions of fans. Now, finally, we have a collection of Henri's musings in his own words featuring never-before-seen photos and quotes. This book is a window into the tortured soul of the world's first feline philosopher. Questions or Comments? Send them to: jon@petliferadio.com More details on this episode MP3 Podcast - Henri, Le Chat Noir with Jon Patch

PODCAST "HOUSE & FEELING" By Jérôme Masselin - le Chat Noir Décembre 2013 1° PHARRELL WILLIAMS "Happy" 2° JUNIOR SENIOR "Move your Feet" 3° MISTACHIC "Get Lucky" 4° JOHN REVOX "love peace & Happiness" 5° FEEL FLOW "one by one" 6° JOY TARANTINO "a Deeper love" 7° FAUL "Happy Endings" 8° BAKERMAT "Uitzicht" 9° GIANNI RUOCCO "Strike" 10° STORM QUEEN "Look Right Through" 11° SAMUELE SARTINI "Keep Dancing" 12° CARL HANAGHAN ROZ BROWN "the Otherside" 13° GALLO ALAIA "Beat of the Drum" 14° GEORGIO SCHULTZ, THE CUBE GUYS "If it Wasn't for the Music" 15° ROBIN SCHULTZ "Same"

TITRE : Négoce en tout genre SORTIE : 27 septembre 2010 PERSONNAGES : Jennifer, Nicole, un ivrogne, Delfina, Allonzo, Le narrateur, l'ingé son, Padrino, Dominique et Dominique, un wesh, Monsieur S.A.C., Pedro, Le chauffeur africain GUEST : Javeldose (Les Dominiques) MUSIQUES : "Le Chat Noir" de Burkana - "Trouble scene" de M.W.D. - "The golden spoon" de Pandora's Box SYNOPSIS : Le début de la fin de cette saison. Il s'avère que la propre fille du parrain agit en digne héritière et complote aussi bien que son gangster de père, et pas avec n'importe qui puisqu'il s'agit d'Allonzo Vettura, l'un des fidèles bras droit du parrain. Mais est-ce pour ou contre la mafia ? Seul l'avenir nous le dira. Et pendant ce temps, le Padrino négocie et assassine comme on prend le thé, et projette quelque chose de dangereux...