But of course I'd love this chapter! Well done!

@SillyBoyz - No worries man, I've gotten and taken a lot of suggestions so far. It's more that we're past the midpoint of the story and I want to make sure I hit the bullseye I'm aiming for. This is a ridiculous experiment I'm attempting, but I think it's gonna come together nicely.

@Derek, Thank you for the reply! I didn't mean to tread on your creative process, I assumed because of both the AI writing and you asking for suggestions about the cameraman and reporter that this was a more open, free-for-all. Sorry if I came across as crass or demanding.

Thanks for your comments. I know that I can't please all the people, all the time... I also know there are some exceptionally talented writers on this site churning out amazing work and I'm just hiding in the shadows of their craft. I won't give away what will happen next, but don't worry EJG, this isn't going to become Dog Soldiers.

Great story

Wow, what a chat! @Swizzington: Actually, I thought you did a pretty good job of conveying that Levi thinks he's the superior one intellectually. It was something you could see, reading between the lines. I liked it like that, rather than it being something explicitly stated. Simultaneously, I was actually convinced this was the case; that he indeed was superior intellectually compared to Austin, and wasn't just thinking he was. Also, I agree that his smugness would be ultimately what lead to his downfall; it was perfect in that respect. Yet, this is exactly what had me chuckling a little in disbelief. The dramatic tension rises and rises throughout the first half of the story; then we get to the revelation that comes dropping in like a bomb falling from the sky: (slipping into Levi's shoes for a moment) "My husband is under the control of this outsider, to the point where he unconditionally obeys everything he says; my six-foot two, gym-built husband, who could easily overpower me... and all Blaine has to do is give the order." That's an extremely terrifying prospect! I would be freaking out at how dangerous that is. The whole thing rapidly deflates when we go from that huge discovery, only to have Levi's dismissive attitude immediately return when Blaine pops up to the camera, menacingly. As if he was still convinced that this cocky kid was harmless, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. In the end, I still think it makes sense how it all worked out in, though those are a couple more reasons as to why I found it a little unbelievable at that point. Regarding Levi's imagination, or lack thereof, and also addressing some of your points Corinthian38: I thought that Levi's lack of imagination would be more of a natural defense, as it makes him more close-minded, and close-minded people are obviously more difficult to influence than open-minded people. Again, I see the ease in Austin's loss of control; Austin, who was actually willing to be hypnotized, who is imaginative, and therefore more open-minded, along with his other traits making him more susceptible to influence. Levi is the direct opposite: unwilling, unimaginative and more close-minded, generally doubtful due to a strong skepticism, I thought he might be more of a challenge to take down. I don't exactly agree that he takes life as it is, as practical people usually try to improve aspects of their lives, and create new possibilities, but I do agree that he probably has some complex of obedience to authority in him deep down, due to his rigid job and workplace dynamic. All of this is making me more excited for part three. Is it Tuesday yet? Oh yeah, before I hit "add comment," you asked if we'd be interested in the prequel. :) I'm actually inclined to agree with Hypnothrill; I think moving forward would be more interesting than moving backwards, as I think I get the gist of what happened between Blaine and Ryland. I don't need more than that. Anyway that's just my vote, and it's ultimately up to you. :)

No need to keep refreshing for now! It won't be released for another 24 hours at the earliest. The reason we don't see more of Levi's hypnosis is that he is the primary point of view character in the first two chapters. The reader sees the events through him and his experiences shape the narrative. So clearly, when he is put into a trance and loses conscious awareness, we can no longer see what is happening. At least, that's what I was going for... :-)

Nice one! Short and sexy....straight to the point!

Fantastic stuff. Love the 180 turn of Danny being obsessed with Rocky!

I am loving where this story goes! Thank you for this!