Chapter 1: The Mirror's Reflection

"When an opportunity arises, seize it..."

Mary Pickford: "Excuse me, what did you just say?"

Mirror: "I mentioned that your outfit looks like something you'd wear after a failed baptism at Bible Camp. You're no longer a child, sweetheart."

Mary: "But I'm known as America's Sweetheart!"

Mirror: "Well, you appear more like America's Naive. Change your clothes. This isn't a whimsical tea party, Alice."

Mary: "But—"

Mirror: "Go!"

Mary hesitated, visibly shaken, then she broke down in tears and fled the stage, howling and lamenting while tearing at her faux locks, as was the way of overly dramatic silent-film actresses. Moments later, chaos erupted as Mary accused gossip columnist Hedda Hopper of sabotaging her career. This was Mary's gravest mistake; Hedda's only offense had been to swipe some shrimp puffs from the catering table. Now, however, Hedda's focus shifted from appetizers to a personal vendetta. Mary was about to learn that the charm of Sweethearts could swiftly fade, thanks to the spiteful narratives crafted by repressed columnists.

As tensions flared, Joan Crawford emerged from behind the mirror, placing a microphone on the now-empty stool and smirking slyly. She then exited the stage, her sights set on the next stage of her cunning scheme to dominate Hollywood.

The director, having observed the unfolding drama unnoticed, turned to his assistant. "It seems we need to rework the script if we want to save this film. Find a writer who can pen a story where a leading star meets an untimely end within the first twenty minutes. It's unprecedented, but our options are limited since Sweetheart's career will be over once Hedda's next column hits the stands."

Assistant: "Actually, sir, I've already drafted the perfect script. We just need to change one character's name to Norma Bates, but it should work beautifully."

Director: "That sounds brilliant. You're quite the talent… um, forgive me, what's your name again? Production assistants come and go faster than a dance at a barn party."

Assistant: "Oh, I understand. I plan to dismiss many PAs in the future, particularly if they have blonde hair, due to my peculiar habit of placing them in dangerous situations. The name's Hitchcock, sir. Alfred Hitchcock."

Director: "Hitchcock? That sounds like a name that might never get past the censors."

Alfred: "Trust me, I know how to navigate around them."

Suddenly, a commotion erupted offstage, and Joan Crawford dashed back onto the set, ignoring the director and locking her gaze on Alfred, desire evident in her eyes. "Just so you know, I'm completely open to a nude shower scene." Then she dashed off toward what likely was a bar.

Director: "Well, that was unexpected."

Alfred: "And so will the shower be."

Originally published as "Past Imperfect — #403," with some modifications for this Medium presentation. For the record, "Norma" Bates does appear in the "Bates Motel" series, which aired from 2013 to 2017. It's a dark and twisted narrative that can be quite addictive, wrapping up its final episode satisfyingly. If you're intrigued, give it a watch.

Still, I have no desire to see Joan Crawford in a shower scene. Just, no.

P.S. Bonus points if you catch the Steve Winwood references...

Chapter 2: The Unexpected Plot Twist

In this video, titled "Arc Sys Asked Me What Characters Should Join Guilty Gear," we explore the intriguing possibilities of character additions in a popular gaming franchise.

The second video, "The Arc -- Driven by Opportunity," dives into the themes of ambition and the relentless pursuit of success, mirroring the narrative we've just uncovered.