DC Next Proudly Presents:

THE NEW TITANS

In Shadow of Kestrel
Issue Nine: War Dove
Written by AdamantAce, GemlinTheGremlin & PatrollinTheMojave
Edited by Deadislandman1 and Voidkiller826
 
Next Issue > Coming Next Month
 
 
“Raven!”
Slade’s gruff voice pierced through the deafening, wave-like roars in Raven’s head, but the rage was too much to bear. Her hands sizzled as hellfire danced in her palms, her body readying for another attack. She locked eyes with a reptilian soldier, dismounting his simian steed and charging on foot, but as she lunged forwards to strike him, she watched a man fly into her path. Slade Wilson caught the young Titan’s hand and pushed, throwing Raven backwards.
“Come on, kid, snap out of it!” But as Slade’s words fell on deaf ears, he felt the familiar sting of a fist to his jaw, a crack echoing in his ears. He recoiled from the attack but powered through his injury and stood his ground. Sinking his heels into the ground, he locked eyes with the girl before him. Her face seemed contorted and uncanny, as if all of the rage she was feeling was pouring out of her. She groaned angrily as she thrusted her head downwards, her forehead making contact with Slade’s teeth, before pulling her head back up again in preparation for another attack.
Before she could make one, however, one of the lizardmen had almost reached the warring duo’s sides, and as he lunged forward with his long spear, he made contact with Raven’s side. A small rip formed in the side of Raven’s outfit, which seemed to only anger her further. However, it did seem to distract her enough; Mar’i fired off a single Starbolt which struck only the ground - a warning shot.
“Raven! Please!” the half-Tamaranean cried out. But the Raven she knew was buried under unfathomable amounts of fury; she ignored her teammate’s call and instead flew forwards and swung out at the reptiloid. The strike glowed with red flame, sending the creature skidding across the floor, barely conscious. Slade spotted a flash of something else on her face, as if she was finally able to fight back against the endless rage - pain, perhaps, or anguish. But in an instant, it was gone.
That flicker of something other than white-hot anger was enough for Slade.
He clutched his side as his still open wound began to ache, the bandages feeling wet with fresh blood. His jaw felt crooked, and as he gritted his teeth, it felt as though they sat differently atop each other. And yet, he clutched his staff tightly in one hand, and with the other he beckoned to Raven.
“Kid, you’re fighting it, I know you are!” Slade felt his mouth filling with blood rather than saliva.
Within a moment, Raven’s attention was locked on the white-haired man once again. She fired bolt after bolt of black and red flame, but Slade was still dextrous despite his pain. He dodged and dived, weaving through the fire, until he finally managed to make contact with his opponent. He drove his staff into her chest and pushed his weight against the weapon, forcing her backwards. She rose into the air, a black mist pouring from her arms and over her face, a large ghostly corvid taking her place. He felt the deathly cold shadow of the bird’s wing fall over him, his feet leaving the ground as she scooped him into the air.
He looked down at the ground far beneath him. A fall from this height would kill anyone, he thought, let alone someone beaten half to death.
Then, as a verdant bolt of energy struck it in the side, Raven’s Soul Self shrieked and the shadows retreated inwards. Slade felt himself falling through the air for a second, then two, before he felt his back collide with something soft and cushioned. As he looked up, he met the gaze of Conner, who soared to the ground in an instant, placing the snow-haired man on the ground and giving a swift nod.
Raven let out a pained, frustrated yell as she returned to the ground, aided by a grappling line expertly positioned by Tim, and in response, Conner jetted off towards the sound of her cries. Slade’s feet faltered beneath him, and he stumbled to keep his balance. His breathing was laboured and his vision was becoming fuzzy. It felt as though, he realised, all the blood loss and violence he had suffered over the past few hours were finally catching up to him. Was this what dying felt like?
“Slade!” shouted a voice, followed by the dulled drumming of hurried footsteps. Slade pulled his hand across his face to wipe away the mental haze and drops of blood. It was Don, sprinting towards him. When Slade felt Don clasp him by shoulders, he realized just how slowed he was by his injuries. “Plan?” Slade coughed out.
“You’ve seen what she can do. I only see one way out of these without one of the kids getting hurt. I’d do it myself, but I’m out of practice and this is too important to leave to chance.” Don looked around anxiously, his face betraying that he had a lot on his mind. “I’m giving you the powers of a god.” Slade opened his mouth to ask a question, a million came to mind. He glanced across the battlefield. Through a blurry film, he saw Raven’s Soul Self bat Conner away with its wing. He careened into the trunk of a thick tree, uprooting it with a deep crunch. “Are you sure?,” Slade asked, breathless.
“I’m not losing another Titan.” Don squeezed his eyes shut. His grip on Slade tightened as pale, almost blinding light enveloped them. It felt warm. No, better than that: it felt peaceful. With his enhanced senses, Slade could hear his erratic heartbeat slow. Fleeting visions bubbled up in his mind, opening up his awareness beyond the wildest dreams of Project Veritas. He felt rivers of magical energy flowing through the air and earth. Each of them spiralled towards a depression. Towards Raven, he knew instinctively. Iridescent blue light spread outward from his shoulders. It washed over his body armor, bleaching the jet black panels until his entire body shone with radiance. The pain from wounds old and new faded, replaced by serenity - and power. Don opened his eyes again and sighed gently; a concoction and joy, relief, and quiet mourning.
“There,” Don remarked. Slade felt lighter, less angry, less burdened. He looked down at the iridescent light enveloping his body. Magical energy buzzed against the surface of his skin. “The powers of the Dove - officially yours.”
Slade sucked in a nervous breath. “Don…” Even rejuvenated, he was still lost for words.
“They’re yours now,” Don smiled weakly. “Now go earn them. There’s a Titan in dire need of our help.”
Conner floated out of the dense jungle, rubbing his forehead. “Is Slade glowing or do I have a concussion?”
Slade looked over at Raven. She seemed less erratic, her movements driven by her brain rather than her gut. Tim’s staff batted fiercely against her, each strike buffeting her back more and more, but it was clear to Slade that Raven was not any weaker physically - her mind, however, was another story.
Slade began marching towards her, the ache in his side dulled. “Raven. You’re strong. Fight this rage inside of you.” Raven glared at him, a spark of something in her eyes, as she swooped in towards him at top speed. As she neared him, however, Slade readied his staff, stretching it out in front of him. As the tip of the weapon struck Raven, a beam of white energy coursed through her, as if she had been struck by lightning, and her body was flung backwards across the dirt.
Slade danced a hand over his rifle, but something felt different. He pulled it into his hands and inspected it swiftly; nothing seemed out of order. Raven rose slowly from her supine position, snarling softly to herself. Her movements had slowed, the expression on her face becoming closer to horror than rage. She was doing it.
“You’re nearly there, kid,” Slade soothed, his words suddenly like butter. He watched Raven’s shoulders start to relax. “That’s it. Just fight this, Raven. You’re almost there.”
Despite her tremendous progress, Raven’s blistering fury won out once more, and she charged a large bolt of hellfire in her hands. Slade fiddled with his rifle and crossed his fingers. There was a standstill between the two. Slade analysed his rifle again; there was something different about the barrel, as if it had been swapped out for another similar model. The stock felt lighter, too, as if the weight had been–
Raven roared at him, swiping wildly with glowing fists, and in an instant Slade instinctively pulled the trigger.
What fired from the gun was not a silvery bullet, but a familiar glowing bolt of white light, cloud-like in appearance. As it struck Raven, she sucked in a deep breath, the energy engulfing her. Her face softened and her posture relaxed. Then she swung out for the man’s weakened side, his bandages poking through the aura of light. And yet, as he stayed steadfast, not even attempting to dodge the attack. Sparks flew from the point of contact. Slade just readied another shot and fired.
Her body swayed with the blow. Slade closed the gap between them and focused on the new warmth he felt, concentrating it into his staff as best he could. Then, as he held it out in front of him at arm’s length, he swiped at Raven and struck her in the side of the shoulder. Each blow seemed to be more effective than the last, but as Raven’s movements continued to slow, Slade held fire.
“You’re doing it, Raven,” Slade encouraged. He watched as the other Titans surrounded Raven, each of them ready for any further attacks. Everyone watched with bated breath as their teammate and friend thrashed and recoiled from the hit. Her breathing was rapid, although it felt closer to panic than unabashed fury. She clasped her hands over her head, groaning. Then, suddenly, she stopped.
Her face had softened completely, her jaw slack, and tears filled her vision. She looked up at Slade with a comfort in her eyes. The aura emanating from him was pervasive and contagious, and although she had felt lost in a sea of impossibly vast emotions, its warmth and comfort cut through. The anger was still there somewhat, the last remaining dregs still working its way out of her system, but the comfort, the peace that Slade was providing was the anchor for her to stabilise herself. She had only ever seen this kind of power when Don…
Raven’s eyes widened as she realised what that meant. She collapsed to her knees, suddenly feeling the bone-deep fatigue her rage had suppressed. Her teammates rushed in around her. Mar’i dropped to a knee by her side and put a hand on her shoulder. “It’s OK. You’re safe. Everyone’s OK.”
“Don I’m—” She wiped away a stream of tears, stumbling her way out of the emotional vortex she’d been sucked into. “I’m so sorry. I don’t know what happened. I’ve lost control before, but never like this.”
Don looked older. Creases ran across his forehead and around his eyes. His smile hadn’t changed. “Raven, my brother and I got those powers when I was a kid. We didn’t ask for them. We weren’t ready for them. We didn’t know how to use them, let alone control them.” He laughed dryly, recalling Hank. “I don’t regret anything. Giving my powers to Slade is the best thing I’ve done with them in years. I know Hank would feel the same way.”
In the moment of silence that followed, Raven rose to her feet and pulled her cloak tightly around herself. She was still shaking. Tim’s eyes drifted from her to Slade. “Something’s gnawing at me. Kestrel’s powers are weakened in Skartaris. Don’s…” He coughed, “Slade’s powers are amplified. If this place is what affected you—”
Mar’i’s face flashed with recognition, “—your powers must be tied to the Lords of Order and Chaos!”
Tim furrowed his brow. “Maybe.” He hardly had time to consider further when a thundering crack tore open the sky. Two bolts of swirling energy - one red and one blue - met above them, forming a swirling portal at their vertex. The Titans readied their weapons, expecting the worst.
“It’s them.” Slade murmured, still put off by his uncanny awareness. Terataya and T’Charr descended from the sky, one wreathed in mist, the other, magma. The two elementals stopped a few feet above the ground, hovering.
Terataya was the first to speak. Even at a whisper, her voice reverberated through the air. “I don’t usually care for surprises, Don, but this was a pleasant one.” A thin smile appeared on her face.
“Slade Wilson.” Terataya’s neck turned at an unnatural angle to face him. “You wield the powers of Order with great skill. Who understands the dangers of unchecked War better than a soldier. Become my champion. Protect the balance.”
Slade took a step back, then glanced at Don.
“She’s right.” Don said, with only a hint of hesitation. “It took me years to use the powers like you used them today. You’re a natural.”
Slade looked at his hands, still gently pulsing with pale blue light. “Thanks.” He allowed himself a weak smile. “But no thanks.”
“What.” T’Charr’s voice boomed.
“It doesn’t take Zatanna to realize an old soldier like me makes a piss-poor Avatar of Peace. I fight for a living, and I’m not deluded enough to think that makes me good at anything but fighting. If you want someone who understands the need for balance, Don just sacrificed everything special about him for it.”
Don raised an eyebrow. “None taken.”
“His actions today were noble, but they do not make up for years spent squandering the gift.”
“Squandering? The Titans wouldn’t exist today if he hadn’t pulled them together. Everything they’ve done. Everything they’ve achieved for your balance wouldn’t have happened without him, including stopping that monster you made.”
“Watch your tone, mortal.” T’Charr threatened.
“There may be a vein of truth to his words, lover.” Terataya said. “But *if we were to restore Don Hall’s power, we would need assurances. His indecision led down this path.”*
Rocks ground against each other as T’Charr landed beside Don. “You would have weeks, not years, to select a counterpart and return to your duties.”
Don’s response was instantaneous. “I’ve made a decision.”
“You’ve decided if you’ll take up the mantle of Dove again?”
Don nodded. “And who should be the new Hawk.”
Terataya giggled. “Full of surprises today. T’Charr?”
“We should discuss this.” He said. “In private.”
The three of them vanished, leaving the Titans and Slade alone on a battlefield riddled with bits of dino meat and ape fur.
 
○○ Ⓣ ○○
 
“You don’t think they’re gonna come back in like, 200 years, right?” Conner asked. He sat beside the depowered Slade Wilson, who was downing aspirin to make up for the sudden deficit in peace energy.
“I don’t know.” Tim said. “But we should give them more than fifteen minutes.”
As if on cue, the skies opened again. Again, the chromatic energy lit the sky and again a portal opened its swirling maw. This time, however, it wasn’t two elemental Lords to descend. Raven squinted to make the figures out.
“Oh my god.” Conner said, having a far easier time with his super-vision.
“What? Who is it?” Tim asked.
“Donna!” Mar’i shouted. She shot off the ground towards her. Her black combat armor was replaced with a crimson and white bodysuit studded with stars that seemed to twinkle as the light shifted around her. The sword at her side was gone too, replaced with a coiled loop of rope suffused with the same brilliant energy. The two collided into an embrace, spinning through the air as they held each other tightly.
Don was the first to land, restored with the powers of Dove. He looked stronger than ever, and maybe more importantly, happier. Even Tim’s typical thoughtful brooding has been pierced by an unimpeachable joy.
“I don’t understand,.” Raven said. “S-She’s alive. How is this possible?”
“I knew there was only one person who could be trusted with the powers of War, with Hank’s abilities.” He scratched the back of his neck, a bit guilty. “And she’d been staring me in the face for years. It took some doing, but eventually T’Charr and Terataya saw that too.”
Donna landed beside him, Mar’i only a step behind. By now Conner had stepped forward. He tried not to choke over his words. “I’m sorry. If I’d—”
Donna didn’t let him get the words out before pulling him into a grapple-turned-hug that quickly grew as the rest of the team piled in. Slade flicked another aspirin into his mouth.
“Danyah!” A voice called out from over the ridge. It was Travis, mounted atop a fanged reptilian creature in the vague shape of a horse and flanked on either side by his gold-armored honor guard. He broke into a gallop, stopping just short of the Titans. “When I saw the skies, I feared the worst. Is it really you? Has sorcery brought you back to us?”
“It’s me, Travis. A Lord of Chaos brought me back.”
“Not to interrupt,.” Slade said, still nursing his wounds. “But did either of you ask them to bring us back to Chicago?”
“I…” Don grimaced. “Donna, how do we get home?”
“How did you get here? Surely you could return the way you came.” Travis said.
“No, we can’t.” Tim said, pressing a few buttons on his wrist’s holographic display. “Whatever magic pervades Skartaris is also causing some extreme time dilation. I can’t guarantee we’d return to the 21st century, or even to Earth.”
“I spent a decade in Skartaris and returned to Earth nearly two centuries later. It’s the influence of Chaos. We’d need a Skartaran mage of overwhelming power to stabilize our return.” She spat the word mage with disgust. Travis’s expression seemed to confirm the reputation of Skartaran spellcasters.
Before their anxiety could spiral, the sky above began to churn. Moments later, the ground shook as a violent bolt of lightning cleaved the air, striking with such ferocity that all but Conner and Donna were flung backward. Mar'i skidded across the damp undergrowth, her senses overwhelmed by the acrid scent of ozone. Her mind was racing; their victory was hard fought, and she doubted they had much left in the tank for another confrontation. She dug her hands into the ground and pushed herself up as she choked from the smell. The Warlord Morgan and his military guards snapped to attention, forming a protective ring around the crater that now marred the earth.
From the smoking pit, a figure rose, unfolding from a crouch like something out of Terminator. Adorned in a red and white jumpsuit that accentuated his lithe build, the young man's appearance was marked by a red cowl and goggles, with sandy brown hair rebelliously spilling out.
Conner squinted through the dissipating smoke, murmuring under his breath, “A speedster?” The Flashes had had a variety of different sidekicks and other allies over the years, but none of them recognised this one
With a nonchalant flair that seemed at odds with the charged atmosphere, the newcomer greeted them. “Hey, everyone chillax. I'm here to get you guys back home.”
Donna, ever the leader, stepped forward and spoke with a commanding curiosity, now emboldened with the war aura of Hawk. “And who are you exactly? Why should we trust you with such a claim?”
Flashing a cheeky grin, he tilted his head and responded, “Well, I’m a speedster for one. Name’s Impulse. If I run fast enough, then I can… well, I guess bend time.”
Behind Donna, the group exchanged sceptical glances. Raven's face remained shadowed by recovery, Mar'i and Conner braced for action, and Tim discretely checked his gadgets, no doubt for something that he could use on a speedster should the need arise.
“Yeah, we figured that much,” Don cut through the tension, his voice calm yet insistent. “Who sent you?”
Impulse chuckled, his demeanour remaining unfazed by their scrutiny. “Look, the details aren't the fun part. Trust me, I can get us back.”
As a silence thick with doubt and scepticism settled over the group, Impulse seemed to realise his casual assurances weren't sufficient. With a theatrical sigh, he reached up and removed his mask, revealing a face familiar to both Mar'i and Raven.
“Brody!?” Mar'i exclaimed, her surprise echoing through the clearing as she stared at the boy who had once hobbled through their college classes with his leg in a cast.
The young man’s grin widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief and a hint of pride. “Actually, it’s Bart.”
 
○○ Ⓣ ○○
 
When Slade emerged from the shower, his skin was glistening with moisture, the water tracing the contours of his scars. He wrapped a stark white towel around his waist, and crossed the plush carpet to sit on the edge of the hotel room bed. He released a slow, deep breath; it was a good job the speedster kid arrived when he did. The notion of being stranded in an alien land or, worse, a different time had gnawed at him with a ferocity that was hard to admit. Without Bart’s intervention, every one of Slade’s meticulously crafted plans would have been utterly dashed.
Facing him, a wall-mounted mirror caught his rugged reflection. Drawn to his own image, Slade studied the scars that mapped his trials, the slick white hair that crowned his head, and the deep lines etched into his face. A familiar discomfort nagged at him, focusing his attention on his right eye. Unable to alleviate the irritation through the skin, Slade exhaled heavily and carefully removed the eye altogether. The movement, fluid and practised, spoke of years of adaptation.
He placed the prosthetic gently on the bed beside him and as he massaged the socket, a decades-old habit, his mind wandered. He wasn't accustomed to keeping the prosthetic in for extended periods. Showering with it had been an uncomfortable experiment in necessity - he didn't like it, but understood the importance of maintaining the facade. The Slade he would have people believe he was would have never lost an eye, because that Slade had led a life far from by the darker paths Slade had truthfully trodden.
His thoughts wandered to his brief time wielding the potent powers of Dove, and Slade felt a twinge of regret at their loss. The clarity and strength those powers had provided were intoxicating, yet he recognised that he had a more important goal, one he couldn’t compromise. His current role demanded not the accumulation of power but the perfection of his deceit, ensuring that all believed he was not the Slade Wilson they knew, but a Reawakened, more innocent doppelganger.
Now, with the glass eye resting beside him, Slade stared at his unmasked visage. Maintaining the myth of the noble Slade was critical. The ruthless mercenary, the World’s Deadliest Killer - those identities had to remain buried. The Titans had believed him enough to entrust him with divine powers, their faith a testament to his performance, but the game was far from over; in fact, it was entering its most critical phase.
 
 
Next: Return to normality in The New Titans #10
 

Redditors on the PCT Week 10* (13 MAY 2024)

Hey folks, welcome back! So sorry for the lack of an update last week, unfortunately a combo of technical issues and life stuff got in the way of the post, but I'm glad to be back! Enjoy some slightly longer updates this week :)
I can't believe we're already in May! Now that the majority of hikers will be on trail, the numbers of new people added to the list weekly will start to slow down.
In hiker news, it looks like there has been a big noro bubble in and around Big Bear in the last week or two. Rumor is it may actually be some sort of algae in the Mission Creek area making people sick instead of noro. The hikers in our update mostly seem to be avoiding it so far. As for weather, the Sierras are still pretty snowed in, so many folks seem to be considering their options.
I don't anticipate there will be many more folks signing up moving forwards, so I won't continue to add the signup link, but it is still available on any of the past posts! Those are linked below the table if you want to take a look.

Hiker	Trail Name	Start Date	Last Location	Update
	Ninety Four	Mar 05 (NOBO)	Somewhere in SoCal	No new update
_	Cheetah	Mar 07 (NOBO)	Past Baden-Powell	05/11: Back on trail solo after a short vacation. Summited Baden-Powell. Getting used to being back on trail and in the bubble
	$tache	Mar 10 (NOBO)	Mile 600	05/10: Walked the aquaduct and took a double zero in Mojave to rest some injuries. Past mile 600
u/ Yeah-girl	Troll	Mar 11 (NOBO)	Ridgecrest	05/05: Covered the stretch from Tehachapi to Ridgecrest with heavy packs, enjoying the wildflowers
u/AlmostJuicey	Popcicle	Mar 17 (NOBO)	Baden-Powell	05/05: Inventing new kinds of bagels. Had a little celebration at mile 420. Summited Baden-Powell
	Rowan	Mar 19 (NOBO)	Off-trail	Waiting out the snow in the Sierras
	Clear	Mar 22 (NOBO)	Hikertown	05/12: Made it into Hikertown. Taking care of some tendonitis before continuing on to the aquaduct
		Mar 22 (NOBO)	Walker Pass	05/05: Pushing through wind, sun, and lack of water to reach Ridgecrest. Dealing with soreness and pain
	Menace	Mar 23 (NOBO)	Agua Dulce	05/12: Hiking along with the tramily and enjoying the trail. Dealing with some foot issues. Took some time off trail and enjoyed Six Flags before heading back to trail
	Shade	Mar 28 (NOBO)	Agua Dulce	05/07: Took the long road walk alternate to Baden-Powell due to snow. Pushed through some touch days and enjoyed Vasquez Rocks
		Mar 30 (NOBO)	Off-trail	05/09: Diagnosed with a stress fracture and recommended to stop hiking until mid-June. Re-evaluating next steps
		Mar 30 (NOBO)	Julian	No new update
		Mar 31 (NOBO)	Off-trail	04/29: Decided to leave trail after making it from Campo to Tehachapi and moving on to the next adventure
		Mar 31 (NOBO)	Off-trail	05/04: Summited Baden-Powell, and made it to Acton for some rest. Went through Vasquez Rocks and made it to mile 500. Decided to get off trail and return to family life
	Old Money	Mar 31 (NOBO)	Somewhere in SoCal	05/05: Hit one month on trail, and nearing mile 400
	Spicy	Apr 03 (NOBO)	Somewhere in SoCal	05/06: Had a rough time on San Jacinto, but now the miles are coming faster. Made it somewhere past mile 300
		Apr 04 (NOBO)	Wrightwood	05/06: Ate at the McDonalds, enjoyed a soak in the hot springs, and made it into Wrightwood
		Apr 05 (NOBO)	Agua Dulce	Had a zero in Wrightwood and climbed Baden-Powell. Did their first marathon day on trail! Took a resupply in Agua Dulce
	Brick & Paw Patrol	Apr 06 (NOBO)	Tehachapi	05/10: Had an eventful time rescuing two lost dogs (they did get reunited with their owners!) Reflected on the desert as they near the end, on the varying ecosystems, superblooms, and mountains
	Jenga	Apr 06 (NOBO)	Baden-Powell	05/12: Took a zero in Big Bear, then continued on , avoiding the noro bubble. Got an early start to tackle Baden-Powell
		Apr 08 (NOBO)	Mile 400	05/11: Made it through Mission Creek to rest in Big Bear. Relaxed in the hot springs, ate at the McDonalds, and switched out some gear. Hit mile 400. and one month on trail
		Apr 08 (NOBO)	Big Bear Lake	05/08: Stopped in Idyllwild and met the mayor. Made it through the Mission Creek area, and managed to dodge noro.
		Apr 09 (NOBO)	Big Bear Lake	Made it through San Jacinto and Mission Creek. Took a nice double zero in Big Bear
	French toast	Apr 10 (NOBO)	Tehachapi	05/10: Had McDonalds at Cajon Pass, enjoyed the gorgeous San Gabriels, and made it up to Tehachapi
	Frozen	Apr 12 (NOBO)	Hikertown	05/12: Took a dip at the hot springs, took a few days off for his son's birthday, and enjoyed the mountain views. Went through Vasquez Rocks, and hit mile 500. Making plans for the Sierras and the rest of trail
		Apr 15 (NOBO)	Cajon Pass	05/09: Made it the first 600 miles on trail
	Frostbite	Apr 15 (NOBO)	Cajon Pass	05/10: Made it through a good part of the desert to Cajon Pass
		Apr 17 (NOBO)	Mile 300	05/07: Made it through Mission Creek, and managed to avoid noro while in Big Bear. Hit the 300 mile mark
		Apr 17 (NOBO)	Idyllwild	05/07: Hit two weeks on trail, meeting new people and enjoying the views
		Apr 17 (NOBO)	Off-trail	05/12: Made it past Big Bear before injuring a knee, maybe an ACL tear. Getting off trail for treatment, and hoping to get back on sometime
		Apr 17 (NOBO)	Past Wrightwood	Made it through Mission Creek, had the first major rattlesnake experience, and stopped in Big Bear. Enjoyed getting some fresh fruit at Cajon Pass, and took a zero in Wrightwood. Took the road walk to skip Baden-Powell, and enjoyed some trail magic
	Aloha	Apr 19 (NOBO)	Warner Springs	05/04: Made it further through the desert to Warner Springs. Status: still alive
		Apr 20 (NOBO)	San Jacinto	05/06: Met the mayor in Idyllwild, and summited San Jacinto. Getting used to the hiker hunger
		Apr 21 (NOBO)	Deep Creek Hot Springs	05/10: Dealing with the heat and fewer water sources, stopping in Idyllwild, and summiting San Jacinto. Taking care to try an avoid noro, going through Mission Creek. Took some time in Big Bear, before heading back out and relaxing in the hot springs
u/Typical-Bike718	Twinkie	Apr 22 (NOBO)		No update yet
	Wind	Apr 22 (NOBO)	Whitewater	05/06: Took a zero in Idyllwild and dealt with some blisters. Climbed San Jacinto, and stopped in Whitewater for a rest
and	Poppins & Chimney Boy	Apr 22 (NOBO)	Idyllwild	05/12: Hiked through fog, stopped in Julian, and travelled through Warner Springs. Hiked through the dust and heat, and took a zero in Idyllwild by way of PVC. Back to trail and summiting San Jacinto, before taking more time in Idyllwild
		Apr 23 (NOBO)	Big Bear	05/12: Found some cows near Warner Springs, had a big breakfast at Paradise Valley Cafe, and zeroed in Idyllwild. Continued on to I-10. Skipped Mission Creek to try and avoid sickness, and hopped up to Big Bear
		Apr 24 (NOBO)	Lake Morena	05/10: Started trail and had a cold first night. Hiked through the cold and rain to Lake Morena and took a zero.
		Apr 28 (NOBO)	Mile 100	05/06: Had a good start to trail. Hit 100 miles
		Apr 29 (NOBO)	Idyllwild	05/13: Made it to Julian for some pie and laundry. Made it to mile 100, complete with sunburn. Took a nice zero in Idyllwild
		Apr 29 (NOBO)		No update yet
		Apr 30 (NOBO)	Idyllwild	05/12: Had a good start to trail. Made it to Idyllwild to meet with the mayor
		May 1 (NOBO)		No update yet
		May 3 (NOBO)		No update yet
	Spice Girl	May 3 (NOBO)	Terminus	05/06: Classic terminus pic to start off trail
	Sleepwalker	May 4 (NOBO)		No update yet
		May 7 (NOBO)		05/10: Started trail, made it to Julian for pie, showers and laundry
		May 10 (NOBO)	Mount Laguna	05/12: Had a hot first couple days on trail, seeing lizards and a rattlesnake
		May 11 (NOBO)		No update yet
2		May 12 (NOBO)		No update yet
		May 19 (NOBO)	Not on trail yet

WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 WEEK 5 WEEK 6 WEEK 7 WEEK 8
Edit: Reddit delete some of the usernames again :(

I heard these Lexani LXUHP-207 tires were pretty good from a couple guys I know and reviews online, so I recently bought 4 (size 245/40r18 to put on my 18x8.75 wheels) to try them out since my summer tires were getting old and worn. I got them balanced/mounted at a shop I don't usually go to, but they were near my work place. Afterward getting my tires installed my 2006 Acura TL started pulling to the right slightly when driving in small streets and pulls to the right quite hard at highway speeds to the point where I have to hold my steering wheel to the left.
I had my tires rebalanced by a different place to make sure they were balanced correctly, but the car still pulls right. I had got my car aligned at a place I trust and everything's in the green, the mechanics said that the only was the toe on the left front, but it was very minor (car still pulls to the right). Same place checked out my suspension and said that everything looks good and straight with no issues or bends. I've gone to this shop for everything the past couple of years and they're an amazing privately owned shop, so I highly doubt they're ripping me off.
Only thing I could think of was radial pull, so I spent last evening rotating tires around to test them. I swapped my front tires and right away it stopped pulling to the right both on small streets and at highway speeds. Swapped the front tires back to their original positions and then swapped my right front and right rear tires, car pulls to the right. Only tire I didn't touch was my left rear tire because I figured I had gotten enough information. The next morning I had to drive about 150-200 miles for a graduation and not only did my car pull to the right on the freeway, but my wheel started shaking at 60+ MPH. When I got home around noon I decided I would rotate my left tires front to back to do another test, but as if kicking me while I was down, my left rear tire had a rusty nail right next to the inner sidewall and had a slow leak (not repairable/patchable).
Planning on getting 4 new GOOD Summer tires tomorrow (like I usually do) and calling it a day to completely eliminate the tires being an issue. I'm hoping this is radial pull at this point because I've been running around and throwing money at this issue for the past 2 weeks. I would also like to note that my car did not pull right on my old tires (225/40r18 summer tires) and does not pull right on my winter set either (stock 17x8 wheels with 235/45r17 snow tires). I went with bigger tires to fill up my wheel well, better comfort, and to protect my wheels a bit more (midwest city driving is a pot hole dodging game). Checked my wheels for bends too, no bends on the outside or inside of the wheels. These tires have been nothing, but bad luck for me. What do you guys think the issue could be?
UPDATE: It was the tires, cheaply made/defective/radial pull. Don't buy cheap tires, everyone. Even if they have an amazing rating, they're cheap for a reason. Happy with my Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02s!

Can you beat monster hunter world's iceborne expansion without hitting monsters? lets find out
It's me! im back! the challenge run man with such an extensive and longstanding history of doing monster hunter challenge runs (please suggest more for me to do i beg of you) returning with the sequal to my entire challenge run catalog.
This is the iceborne video and will be continuing directly where the base game video left off, so go watch that and come back if you want the full context
as a refresher, the rules for this challenge run are as such:
the victory condition is to beat shara ishvalda.
our rules for the run include: no damaging the monster with my weapon
no clutch claw
no bombs
no co-op or mods
there is one more rule that puts an asterisk on the previous rules however. This run is about utilizing as much of the environmental traps and oft forgotten mechanics and items as possible, and as such if a environmental trap requires me to break a rule, I am allowed to do so in order to trigger that trap using the minimum necessary force
this applies to exactly 3 things across this run: If I'm near a grymalkyn ivy trap that requires I mount a monster to trigger it, I'm allowed to jump attack for the mount, but not allowed to stab with the knife or do any mounting finisher. I can only ride the monster around. I'm allowed exactly 2 flinch shots in phase 1 of shara ishvalda in order to utilize the falling boulders that require it, and in phase 2 of shara I'm allowed to trigger the falling boulders in that phase using (jiggle but) bounce bombs so long as i dont hit shara with them
with all that out of the way, Mantra Man and Chad McMillis dust off their boots and get ready to enter a whole new challenge
our first opponent is beotodus, the snowy fish boy. one of the coolest things about the hoarfrost reach for this kind of run is that there is SO MUCH in the environment for you to use against the monster. the sheer amount of environmental traps available to use is even greater than that of the elders reccess, and we'll get to that. However, you would never guess this from the beotodus fight. even the landslide is not available to us yet as currently the underground portion of the map is off limits. In the base game, great jagras was legitimately one of the hardest fights in the run amd a huge wall we needed to clear at that early point in the game where we didn't have our tools.
this is not the case with beo however, and this first hunt is more devoid of interesting content than dharman videos. Beotodus cheats on its husband, what happens next will shock you: I spammed torch pods and meowcanos, and it died. (subscribe). One noteworthy thing for beo is that you can knock the snow off his body using water pods, which enables my cat to do more damage per hit, but that's pretty much it. we absolutely will have to attain new gear and strategies to make it through this DLC, but one thing that is for god damn sure is that we don't need to do it for beotodus. Although the lack of a tail raider ally was very noticible and the increased HP pool were definitely felt.
with beo gone we get access to the master rank smithy. The first thing I did was craft the rose basket for my kitty cat using the festival tickets. this weapon is head and shoulders above every other possible weapon I can make at this point and would become my standard go to weapon all the way until the very end of the game, it's just that good. Kill them with kindness has never been so literal, just look at those weapon stats. and speaking of weapon stats, lets talk about a mistake I made in understanding palico stats back in base world.
nobody gives a shit about how numbers work like you do just move o-
shut the fuck up post production bison gaming I can do whatever the fuck I want, just look at the numbers they're so cool!!
OK so I had mentioned in the great jagras fight in the base world video that with the base weapon having an attack stat of 2, I had no idea whether or not increasing by 15% damage using the attack up hunting horn song actually did anything with numbers that small. However this isn't actually how palicos work. Unlike us, the players, who are entirely dependent on our gear to provide any stats, palicos do actually have a base damage stat. most players have gone blind do it, but your cat gains XP with every hunt you complete just like you do with hunter rank. however, your cat leveling up doesn't just raise its HP, it also raises it's attack. it turns out that palicos have a base damage that is simply ADDED TO by equiping them with a weapon. so even though the weapon only had a damage stat of 2, its quite possible the palico had a base stat of 10 or 20 which became 12 or 22 by adding the weapon to it. as such the attack up melody was doing A LOT MORE than i realized back at the beggining of world. it's also why the meowcano and cocktail, which scale based off range attack, don't actually change much in damage output even when doubling the ranged attack stat of your weapon, because the weapon you have equiped is only a portion of your cats damage stat. real interesting stuff
the priority for my gear is to just get the higher defense allotted by having master rank gear over high rank. I still need to prioritize having all 5 points in palico rally however so hunting those monsters is our next step. I did make this fun veil that gives me 3 points in wide range, allowing me to heal him at will, lowering my cats and any tailraider's downtime and making them functionally immoral as long as I'm paying attention... something I am very very good at doing. This skill I got better at the further I went into the expansion and it became more and more central to my loadout
In high and low rank, the monsters that gave me palico rally were great jagras and great girros, so I hunt one of each of those to look at their armor sets and... oh... they don't have any... So fun fact, palico rally is a stupidly hard still to come by in master rank, and that means that until I upgrade my rally charm to level 5, I'm required to keep 1 piece of high rank gear, the great girros vambraces, in order to maintain my level 5 in the skill.
a more subtle difference I began to feel more as I went after banbaro is the steadily increasing involvement of my player character. It's not enough to fully rely on just my palico for damage anymore, and I need to contribute through more frequent slinger usage by this point in the game. the hunt times are also getting longer and longer and that makes me somewhat scared considering just how early in the DLC I am by this point.
starting with banbaro I'm finally allowed to use the landslide! it doesn't do as much damage as other traps, but its a hell of a lot more than zero, and it just looks fucking cool as shit. also, the landslide moves monsters to a zone with 2 falling boulders, so this is actually a VERY lucrative zone
with banbaro capped, more of seliana opens up and I get access to the steamworks. Since I didn't spend much time in high rank and am short on decoration variety, the steamworks is invaluble as a source of decorations to fill in some of the things I'm missing. Fingers crossed especially in the hopes I might land a palico rally gem. okay these look pretty good so far, though some are useless like this expert jewel and... what?
excuse me? what is this? what the fuck is this? WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS?!?!?! ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME? i HAVE PLAYED THIS GAME FOR THOUSANDS OF HOURS AND NEVER GOTTEN AN ATTACK UP JEWEL OUTSIDE THE 2 THAT ARE GARUNTEED, AND AFTER ALL THIS TIME i GET IT ON MY THROWAWAY CHALLENGE RUN CHARACTER WHO ISN'T ALLOWED TO USE A FUCKING WEAPON?!?!?! WHYYYYYYY???????
I um... feel I may have gotten a little passionate there... don't worry, I'm fine. It's something I can solve by crying myself to sleep tonight.
okay... deep breaths. in... out... in.., WHAT THE FU-
anyways, it's now time to finally get a new piece of gear to add to our repatoir that changes our gameplay significantly. I took a break from master rank here to quickly complete the red and blue crew to unlock the challenger mantle. This mantle allows you to lure monsters to different areas, and many times you can get them to go to areas they would never go to on their own. this is useful for fighting near traps or forcing turf wars and adds a lot of damage. in all honesty, after using this mantle throughout the run, I am kicking myself for having never used it before, as it is SO GOOD, as you'll soon see. However, it is not morgan freeman. it is not all powerful. monster's have certain areas they are not allowed to go to whatsoever and can only be lured so far. for example, I would not be able to lure beo all the way to the shrieking legiana nest. he just wasn't built for that mechanically, so the game steps in to say no. still, this mantle would prove invaluble for what it CAN do, and I'm going to give this mantle more attention from my other profiles from now on
viper tobi kadachi was fairly easy, but is noteworthy as the first hunt I used poisonlanterns for. whats a poisonlantern? its the azure rathalos of poisoncups. a reskin thats slightly more airborne. tobi is down for the count, and with him gone I can FINALLY engage with the boaboa quest and earn myself a new slave army.
doing this involves hunting a monster in an expedition while the boaboa gather and watch. this is to establish myself as the dom in the relationship and show that I am capable of inflictng slow painful death to whoever defies me via torch pods and meowcanos. Once I'm done swinging my giant hunter cock in front of them and they accept me as their general, I further establish their dependence on me by flying to their camp and taking command of a large scale opperation to hunt a tempered beotodus with the entire boaboa military. This is genuinely one of my favorite quests in this game and one you only ever get to experience once per character, so I highly recomend doing it. It involves scaring a popo away from its heard to use as live bait and ambushing the beo lured by the free snack. in addition, throughout the hunt, the beo army will pin the monster down and use volley tactics against the beo. and as someone who is ALSO just letting all my cat do the work, I really got to sit back and enjoy being a tactical commander for a bunch of troops. genuinely a quest to remember.
this unlocks me a friend to fight with on the hoarfrost reach, and a fantastic new palico tool: the smoke signal. doing this will send me a tailraider and tamed animal ally to my position on any map. this allows us to save a LOT of time as many of the grimalkyn camps are well out of the way and require significant time investments to recruit, especialy the troupers and boaboa. not the case anymore however. I can only use it once per hunt, but as long as I continually heal them with wide range there will be no issues!!
with this we can finaly continue with the main story. up next is... oh... these two...
we were going to hit it eventually, but welcome to the first wall of iceborne. base world had 4 walls to overcome throughout my run, great jagras, radobaan, nergi, and xeno jivia. likewise, there are 4 walls in iceborne, and the first 2 are this particular pair of coral pukei pukei and nightshade paolumu. these 2 monsters give me nightmares. it gives me conniptions. These 2 monsters almost made me quit the run. If this challenge run were in dark souls I almost would have turned hollow, and NOBODY wants to look like that. (disgusted shivering)
both of these monsters mark a notable jump in hp pools, and from this point on, every new monster will have more HP than xeno-jivia. in addition, they have a few extra problems with them. coral pukei pukei is the tankier of the 2, and is also fought at the coral highlands. the highlands have a major issue ascociated with them, being that they have NOTHING in the way of environmental traps that do damage. sure you can get a stagger on the blue cusion things, bit that doesn't do damage, and as I can't hit monsters its functionally unavailable to me anyways. the ONLY damaging environmental traps are these 2 poisoncups which are way far away from any area coral pukei visits and is generally unfeasible to get him towards. however, with the raised HP, using slinger ammo tailraiders and meowcanos simply won't cut it. additionally, coral pukei was proving to be problematic damage-wise as well, as being stuck with high rank armor on my arms was finally coming to bite me in the ass, and this monster was more than capable of tripple carting me if I wasn't careful.
nightshade paolumu was less deadly to me directly, but the sleep gas made getting my cats to deal damage a huge pain in the ass and much of my time was spend shooting my cats to wake them up instead of the monster. using the challenger mantle I was able to repetedly lure him to these poison cups in the forest zone, but still found myself timing out without even getting a red pod to drop from either of these 2 monsters, and i was poisoning nightshade like 6 times a hunt. If i were going to beat these, upgrades needed to be made and new strategies tested.
The first thing I did was solve my armor issue by completing the boaboa kill quest and farming a pure crystal to finally cap my rally charm at level 5, negating the need for high rank great girros armor or any rally decorations in the future. I also played around with placing a snowman on top of the meowcano, a bug which allows the meowcano to do vastly more damage. it's normally done using a snowman and 2 bombs, but since we can't use the bombs, snowman it is. this, as it turns out, did not work too well. coral pukei is a small target with very wide coverage when shooting liquids (obligatory coral pukei dick joke) and the snowman would often be destroyed the instant I placed it down, I rarely got any significant or noteworthy extra damage out of doing this. same story with nightshade really. I am also purposely limiting my max benefit from this bug so as to not break the game even if I do get good damage out of it. the bonus damage is higher the higher your framerate is, and although my PC could play this game at pretty much whatever framerate i could dream of, I opted to keep it locked to 60 for the purpose of making it a moderate and useful, but tricky damage boost.
ultimately, the experiment failed however and snowmen would be scrapped until FAAARRR later into this run. after, I kid you not, 2 weeks, I finally decided to resort to poison smoke bombs again like I did xeno jivia. I have known this entire time that at some point poison smoke bombs would be a requirement in order to progress, but I wanted to hold off on it for as long as humanly possible to see just how car I could take the game with cats and environment alone. to be honest, I hit the barrier far sooner than I anticipated, I thought barioth would be the monster to force my hand and make me use smokes. but I've already failed nightshades quest multiple times despite having poisoned him around 6 times a hunt, so what could smoke bombs really add? well, the answer is that we also need to bring back the 3 piece pink rathian high rank armor set bonus we used for xeno. 3 piece high rank pink rathian has a set bonus that doubles the duration and therefore total damage output of poison. the catch obviously being that now instead of having only 1 piece of high rank gear i had 3, meaning I was going to take A LOT of damage, even after fully upgrading all 3 pieces with armor spheres. by this point I was much more confident and comfortable avoiding their attacks however, so I figured I could probably get away with it
with all this comes a requirement of having lots of smoke bomb supplies however. I can only carry 5 smoke bombs and 10 of each of the supplies, 15 smokes total, at maximum capacity, and we would need A LOT more than 15 on every hunt. in other words, farming needed to be done, both for poison smokes and farcasters. now let me introduce you to the main skill I used throughout this run to help with said farm: pro transporter. little used and oft forgotten, pro transporter is a severely underrated skill that allows you to move faster while carrying heavy items like cannonballs or eggs. how much faster? well... *dejavu* this skill is fucking incredible. you straight up might as well not be carrying anything for how fast you run with this skill equiped. you run fast enough you can complete the entire ancient forest wyvern egg delivery quest with both eggs with a single use of your ghillie mantle. this is relevent, because to buy some time for my farm to merit me enough smokes to attempt these monsters, I figured I might as well run through all the ingredient delivery quests, and the herbavore eggs on the wildspire waste would end up being a regularly done quest of mine, as it is the single fastest quest I can complete with my challenge run rules. expeditions require you to be on the map a certain amount of time before it counts towards your farm, but completing a quest always gives progress, and with the pro transporter skill, not only can I completely outrun the apceros, but I can complete the quest consistently under 3 minutes. I'm just saying, by the end of my playthrough, the egg stockpiles of the meowsculer chef probably looked a lot like the nuclear waste barrels in the winden caves.
The only thing is that you can't get a jem or charm for this skill, and it only comes from kulu ya ku, something I did not kill in either master or high rank, meaning that when I'm farming, I'm using unupgraded low rank kulu ya ku armor and no this will not come up later
*sometimes, forshadowing is relatively obvious*
With this, I tried nightshade paolumu once again, putting everything together. turf wars, the sand pit, challenger mantle, poison cups and poison smoke bombs. and the result... *massive sigh of relief*
thank god. its possible. the run is saved
but wait, nightshade went down, but what about coral? the highlands don't have anything damaging to monsters, even in regards to turf wars. the most likely monster pukei can encounter is just tzitzi ya ku who doesn't do any damage. is poison really going to be enough to... oh wait coral is 3 star weak to poison? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA he ended up going down even faster than nightshade. this does pose a problem however, in that I will be in big danger should I encounter a monster on the highlands that ISN'T 3 star weak to poison, especially since the HP bars are only going to get bigger. At this point I did a mental checklist of every story required monster fought in the coral highlands. there are only 3 in total. coral pukei, ebony odogaron, and namiele. now just a quick google search to check their weaknessess and... wait seriously?
yeah by purely lucky hapenstance, the only 3 required monsters needing to be killed in the highlands are actually all 3 star weak to poison, so even without any traps, we'll be perfectly fine. how convenient!! thanks game
but all this said, I can't continue without upgrading to master rank pink rathian set. luckily I only need 2 pieces this time instead of 3. it does mean however farming pink rathian and anjanath in master rank, after the initial capture, the second kill of both these monsters is made significantly easier by taking place in the special arena. The kulu ya ku armor is worth the low armor so long as I just avoid being hit, and makes loading the cannons a breeze, combined with 2 points in the heavy artillery skill to double the damage of cannons and balistae and I have a reliable way to fight monsters without having to resort to poison smoke bombs, which is good because I found out during this time that the game doesn't allow you to use farcasters in the special arena. I had no idea. the more ya know.
I also picked up the astral gloves at this time for 2 points in divine blessing. seeing as damage skills are nearly all useless, my build skillwise is based around wide range, palico rally, tool specialist which I get from pink rathian, and as many defensive skills as I can cram into my build, and thats really all we need. As an aside, the apothecary mantle would not be a good fit for this build, if any of you were wondering. I am not sure whether it actually affects smoke bombs or not, but if it did it would actually lower the poison output from them. how status affects work in world is that every time you hit a monster with a status weapon, you have a 1 in 3 chance to apply your status build up to the monster. the apothecary mantle changes this to garuntee status build up on every hit, however in exchange, lowers the status build up you do on hit by either 33% or 50% depending on the status. this is to keep it from breaking the game obviously, and it still provides a VERY solid bonus to overall status output. however, smoke bombs ALREADY are garunteed to apply status on every hit, so if it DID affect them, all it would do is hurt the build up without giving me any benefit, in the end doing nothing for the user... kind of like an inurance company
the 3 stars are up next, starting with barioth. Barioth went down just like the rest using all of the strategies available to the hoarfrost reach, however, I also noticed during this hunt that in this zone, some of these ice clumps have jagged rocks in them. all the ice clumps can be destroyed, but if one with jagged rocks gets destroyed, the shrapnel does a little bit of damage to you and the monster. not much, but hey, damage is damage. Barioth, although not particularly noteworthy in this video, is a particular source of pride for me, as when I first played iceborne my very first time all those years ago, barioth was my biggest wall as a newbie player. I tried and failed and tripple carted several times against him, and after I stopped tripple carting, I was still timing out. it wasn't until my 6th try against him or so that I finally beat him with only 13 seconds left on the clock, and its incredible both to see how far I've come as a player and how much freedom the game gives you to really push its extra mechanics to the limits that I am now able to beat him on my first try in only 35 minutes without using a weapon or bombs or flinch shot. I'll probably remember this particular hunt from this challenge run more than most others for a very very long time.
nargacuga was notable only for the fact that it was good enough at being a crack adict that it dodged all my poison and timed me out once, but with a little extra agression it went down just like the rest. tigrex made me realize that the boulders on the top of the rotten vale are a joke more than anything else, I would have never guessed their damage was so low when they LOOK so intimidating. I had been using it before now, but now is a good time as any to mention that I've also picked up poisoned meat as a way to create poison build up. It's just noteworthy with tigrex because he's super easy to convince to eat things. but yeah, he and glavenous and brachy all went down with no real notes. Brachy was actually insanely easy, due to the simple fact that you fight him in the elders recess. any monster fought here is a joke. between 2 falling boulders in the center, lava geyser, and 4 nitrotoads that are reusable, and all the dangerous powerful monsters that live here that ALL have turf wars with each other, quests here are a vacation.
the first meeting with velkhana is up next, and well... it takes place in the recess in the area with 2 falling boulders, so the fights over after just 3 poisons. onto 4 star monsters!!! shrieking legiana an ebony odogaron are both 3 star weak to poison, but this is ESPECIALLY true for shrieking legiana. I did not know this beforehand, but legiana has a special animation when poison where it'll cough and chock and hack a lung up, giving you an extra stagger whenever its poisoned. and not only that, its tolerance is PATHETICALLY low, even at max tolerance never taking more than 4 smoke bombs to repoison. this is easily the weakest monster to poison in the game, matched only by normal legiana. I swear I almost killed both of them in the quest, and even with normal legiana never leaving shriekings fucking side this was the easiest shrieking kill I've ever had in my life. There are also new environmental traps up at the top of the reach available for use. 2 falling boulders which both missed their target in this hunt, and the hot spring zone, which will send water geysers up damaging monsters if you convince them to destroy the big rocks sitting on top of them. yeah, this quest was easy
I alluded to this before, but ebony odogaron is equally weak to poison as coral pukei, and I didn't even realize it was close to death. It's at this point where I must admit I have failed you, my dear audience. a fun fact is that poison and your palico cannot actually kill monsters, it always leaves them at 1 HP and requires the hunter to get the final hit. normally, I capture because its faster, but ocasionally a monster will get to 1 HP before I know it and I instead kill them with slinger ammo. perfectly fine, nobody gives a shit. this time against odogaron however, he got to 1 HP without me realizing it, and jumped into my hunting horn swing while I was trying to apply a buff and died. oviously this triggered the quest complete so I couldn't abandon quest and restart. However, this means in this situation that I could have killed him simply by shooting a rock at him, which in my head is proof enough that its doable and not worth completely replaying the quest in optional format for. so imma take this victory and move on. if you wanna declare run invalid, go ahead. i dont give a shit. ive still proven its totally doable and did it in practice, dealing more damage than his full HP bar following the rules. cheerio, moving on.
acidic glavenous was acidic glavenous, what more do you want from me? captured.
aahhh yes, the repel quest from velkhana. a favorite of mine. roaming balistae are always cool and nobody can tell me otherwise. and with 2 points in heavvy artillery, the balistae and cannons are enough with just 2 poisonings to once again just trounce the game. honestly, the 4 stars and the repel quest were the easiest point in this run. by far.
however, this is where the easy part of the journey stops, and the difficulty picks back up again, starting with velkhana proper in the hoarfrost reach. this quest, and velkhana in general, are dicks
to sum up my playing style, I have 4 main sources of damage. my cat, poison, environmental traps, and monsters fighting each other. However, all the assigned quests for the elder dragons spawn zero other monsters on the map, which lowers it down to 3. well thats fine, there are a lot of environmental traps in the hoarfrost reach, such as those boulders. but velkhana won't go to any of those on its own, so we'll need to use the challenger mantle to lure him there... and here's where the problems start to stack. in addition to no access to turf wars, velkhana is specially programed like most monsters to have certain areas he just refuses to go to. and it just to happens that velkhana is one of, if not the most, restricted monster in iceborne. Not only am I not able to take him to the falling boulders RIGHT NEXT TO HIS NEST, I also can't take him to the spiked ice pillars, I can't take him underground to the poisoncups or falling boulders, and I also can't take him to the landslide. the ONLY trap I can use are the water geysers at the hot springs, the weakest of all the traps on the map with a max damage potential of only 750 if I'm lucky, because unfortunately velkhana moves around a lot and in all my attempts, I only only got a few successful geyser hits. He's also very agile and refuses to sit still, making him difficult to poison. and now my 4 damage sources have turned into 2, realistically 1 and a half. vekhana timed me out twice
but by the third attempt I had caught onto the fact that he takes A LOT of damage from torch pods, and used my challenger mantle to keep him engaged only in locations with torch pods, spamming them on the ground and making him walk around in them. fighting velkhana felt very reminicinst of fighting the armored bore in dark souls, but... you know... a lot longer. velkhana was defintely the monster that took the most damage from my slinger throughout the game, by a wide margin. I mean just look at this, with 6 torches per set thanks to slinger capacity, this is like 65 damage a tick. once velkhana gets low enough to limp, he returns to the nest. something special about the assigned quest however is that once he goes to the nest, his programing changes and he will not leave the nest area for the rest of the duration of the quest, even when I'm using the challenger mantle, and the moment you're not in the area with him, he'll go back to sleep. additionally, there are no slinger ammo in the nest, as such. at this point in the quest, my strategy was to take the frieren approach and play tag with the dragon. I would wake it up and poison it as fast as I can, empy 25 rocks at it seeing if it was weak enough to die, and then facaster out, resupply, and repeat. took a while, but we did eventually get there. the iceborne wyvern slayed frieren style. thats what im talking about
seething baselguese could be best described as... *roar
...
a monster in the elders recess *montage* he also marked the first appearence of savage deviljho, and the turf warred twice, so he was REALLY fucked. a nice palet cleanser before the biggest disapointment of the run
blackveil vaal is, unfortunately, where things go from bad to worse. He is the third wall. As its an elder dragon assigned quest, there is still the issue of not having any other monsters on the field, and once again its in an area with little in the way of environmental traps, having poisoncups and 1 falling boulder. the poison cups could potentially carry me, if however blackveil wasn't highly resistent to poison. not only does it take an insane amount of buildup, often 10-11 smoke bombs to poison him once at max tolerance, but he only takes at base 160 damage from poison, 320 with the pink rathian set bonus, so not only is it difficult and slow to poison him, you get next to nothing out of it. to make matters worse he is a slow moving ranged monster making him a time wasting hassel to lure around with the challenger mantle and more likely to just get sniped, and taking next to no damage from torch pods, and blackveil almost perfectly counters every single option I have as a player. there are still some things I can do however, and I will go over them. I brought back the snowman to boost meowcanos, but, while easier to land on blackveil compared to coral and nightshade, it wasn't enough to completely carry the run. I also continually reloaded the quest and only did proper attempts when I got a map spawn with gajalaka allies and 2 gajalaka shellshocks on the map, or the same thing but with boaboa. I boosted all my allies continually using not just the hunting horn, but also with mega demon drug and might seed through the wide range skill, which is capped now using gems instead of just at level 3. it all still wasn't enough, so I went online, scouring ideas and made a community post on my channel asking for new ideas. someone suggested the geralt set and spamming the flame rune, but that would require clearing the witcher quest as geralt without swinging a weapon and also without my stache of smoke bombs, against the leshion which already takes a while to kill. it clearly just wasn't a possibility mathematically. it would probably be easier to slay vaal than it would be to slay leshion. another comment suggested using the challenger mantle to get vaal to the damn in the rathalos nest at the top of the map. I wasn't sure if elder dragons could be affected by landslides or not, so I gave it a try in an experimental run to see if it was possible only to find out that it doesnt matter because the rathalos nest is like the singuar area in the entire ancient forest that is off limits for vaal, so there goes that option too. I struggled with this for a few days, had no more feasible ideas, and came to the conclusion that I don't think it's mathematically possible to slay vaal in this assigned quest in 50 minutes.
in an official manor, the run technincally ends here. But i felt unsatisfied with this, as I wanted to at least see if the rest of the monsters were possible, especially when I was so close to the end. so officially, the run is over and the answer is no. but I'm going to make another attempt using barrrel bombs, and then continue without bombs again to see if he is the only impossible monster, for my own sake and for a more satisfying ending to the video.
with bombs and snowmen, the meowcano shreds, and 3 points in bombradier allows for much more damage, and even with all of this, it took until there were only a few minutes left to slay him, since he is so god damn tanky. man is it cool and fun to see bright explosions though :)
after that unhapy moment of defeat, we press on against namiele! once again bombs are not allowed, but as mentioned before, this monster is 3 star weak to poison, and the jellyfish dragon goes down on my second attempt with about 5 minutes to spare, with just poison smoke bombs and the meowcano
with that we approach the final 2 monsters, starting with ruiner nergigante
what can I say about ruiner nergigante... who would have thought that of all monsters, low, high, AND master rank, that ruiner nerigante would be my fastest kill time. I'm not joking. ruiner is so agressive and straight forward, even being more resistant than namiele he was a dream to poison. I just pinned myself against a wall at the edge of the arena, kept all my palico buffs active, meowcano'd (without snowmen i might add) and smoke bombed and he NEVER moved away or forced me to move away as long as I just repetedly spammed superman dives in the corner. it was a close of a direct fight and slugfest as is possible in this kind of run, and I felt my blood pumping throughout the entire hunt as I tried not to get hit while maintaining all the buffs I could. this was not only the fastest, but the most fun and most unique hunt in this entire run thanks to the small arena that ensured he never ran away. he went down in just 23 minutes, 23 MINUTES, and I was already at shara ishvalda

It’s been a while. I don’t know why it took so long for me to post. How long has it been? A year? A year and a half? And I have gained plenty of stories to share - while I’ve neglected you, dear friend.
But right now, you’re my catharsis. You, who might listen to me.
I still can’t believe what I witnessed this winter. Perhaps that’s why I haven’t spoken of it sooner. Perhaps that’s why I’m pretending it never happened.
I suppose though, it’s less that I can’t believe it and more that I don’t want to.
Because time can’t alter. Time doesn’t change. Time is time, right? Some missing time is normal, but not for… days. Right? But I have to believe because everyone else says it’s true. Everyone else says that’s how long I was gone, even as the sun hung still in the sky.
This winter in Alaska has been aggressive. Like last year we had record breaking snowfall and cold. Which I loved and adored. The white mountains touching dark skies. The trees bending with the weight of snow. And of course the mounds the plows would make at the end of my street.
I had missed Alaska.
Granted where I stay isn’t the village anymore. I’m in Anchorage. Or near it. You probably don’t know of the tiny towns along the highways. But if you did… well I don’t particularly want you to find me, now do I?
I’ve finally finished processing what happened. Now that I understand what I went through - after a stern tongue lashing from my grandmothers for my carelessness - I can talk about that day I heard a whisper. I wasn’t sure where it came from but it was ancient and spoke to me in Koyukon.
I can confidently tell you, dear friend, that not all monsters are large and hulking. Some monsters are small and spritely. With sharp teeth. And pointy weapons. And an uncanny ability to make the days pass while the sun stays high.
Everyone believes me. Except my father. My father can’t.
Do you know what comes with freezing temps and mounds of snow? Ice. Beautiful, solid, blue blue, blue ice. The beautiful frozen waterfalls that call to me every year.
Every winter I can’t help but be drawn to these natural wonders.
And every year I never fail to climb at least one. No matter how painful the cold is to my scar covered body, it will happen.
It was a normal day for me, all set for my adventure. Well, mostly normal. I woke with that nagging feeling in the back of my skull, as if something is watching, and you can maybe see it out of the corner of your eye. I attributed it to staying up late searching for and preparing my gear.
I was up and raring to go with breakfast and lunch ready to assemble. It was a process I’ve done many times and by the time I was throwing my backpack on my sister came out of her room, yawning. Lazy bum.
“Where ya goin this time?”
“Hatcher Pass. Checking out Hillside Pillars.”
She thought and gave a wave. “Six hours round trip and you’ll probably be out there on the falls with as much daylight as you can possibly suck out.” She stared at me expectantly. “So… see ya at 8 tonight?”
I gave a quick nod. “Yes.”
“Did you check the avalanche warnings?”
“Yup. Things are calm today. And with that, I’m going ‘mom.’”
She shot me a sharp look and stumbled past me to the kitchen. I gave one last grin before running out the door, ignoring the shiver that ran up my spine as I stepped out. It was cold. Very cold. That’s all, right?
The drive was peaceful, I was out well before the annoying traffic that bottles up at those special points along the Glenn Highway and in Palmer. Up the road to Hatcher Pass, getting little spikes of adrenaline as I got closer and closer to my destination.
Once there I chewed on my breakfast, and as soon as the sun rose I was out of the truck, beginning the long trek to the waterfalls. A hike, a river crossing, and a 20-30 ft step climb and I’d be at the main event.
Why am I telling you all this? Because it was the start of a beautiful day. The start of what would be a fun day. A day where I’d conquer a piece of the world in a way very few do.
As I climbed I felt the wind and listened to its gentle whistle through the trees. The shush of snow falling off with every gentle caress. The sound of small animals rushing about to find food or shelter.
A slow ascent, one foot above the other, one axe pull at a time. It was exhilarating. It’s hard to explain the satisfaction of knowing you’re one step closer to a view you can only find during this time of year.
I finished my climb and stood at the top of the WI4 rated beauty and enjoyed the view just long enough to curse the short days. The breeze picked up my loose hair and tickled my nose. It almost felt like it was congratulating me on a job well done. Even as the hair on the back of my neck stood on end and I shivered. I was just cold, right?
Unloading my pack, I sat down and chewed on a sandwich, taking in the sights. The mountain. The pure white snow. The small movements of life. The skiers and snowmobilers in the distance. As I was wiping the crumbs off my now freezing fingers I heard a sound I had become familiar with. One that would always give me pause. The screech of a hawk came from high above.
I couldn’t help but shudder. It’s the wrong time of year for one to be attracting a mate. What danger was it warning others of? I bit my lip and eyed the surroundings. What would scare a hawk in the middle of the day? Nothing pleasant. Never.
I looked up the frozen river, into the trees and to the foot of the waterfall when I heard a quiet whisper. I swallowed the thickening lump in my throat. I don’t fluently speak Koyukon. Never have I had the desire to. But I knew. I knew what the wind whispered. And it whispered in a rushed manner.
“Run, little flower.”
With that there was deafening silence and as I stood in confusion I felt a shiver that turned into a pain that radiated from the scars covering my body.
I didn’t even give the pain building in me a second thought as I began to see movement out of the corner of my eye.
As I reached for my gear, I heard a giggle like a mischievous child. One giggle turned to two. Two turned to four until I could no longer count as they surrounded me in the wind. I worked faster, gathering my things as the shadows began to move inside the trees.
“Fuck fuck fuckity fuck.” I repeated over and over.
I didn’t have much time, the darkness in the corner of my eye was growing. I made sure my bag was shut tight and secure before tossing it over the edge of the waterfall, hoping nothing in it would break. As I tied myself in I looked up the river and the breath was stolen from my chest.
They looked completely harmless. Child-like. But they were wrong. Out of time. I felt every hair on my body stand on end as if the static in the air concentrated. A group of seven came out of the trees, their giggles and smiles almost infectious. Their clothing were winter parkas and pants straight out of a museum and on a couple seemed comically oversized. You’d almost think they were cute. Harmless.
But their smiles were threatening as they bared their sharp teeth and their eyes shone mercilessly black. Their skin would be as white as the snow surrounding us if it weren’t for the gray undertone.
I practically threw myself at my line and clipped in, barely holding onto my axes as I swiftly threw myself over the edge, beginning my descent.
I felt the wind gust through the trees and I shivered at the implications. What else could I do?
I moved faster and faster, beginning to breathe heavily before my feet were on solid ground. Looking up I realized that the sun had begun to darken sooner than I had expected.
I swallowed back the built up fear and realized a freak storm was building. My brain raced through the only thing it could think. “Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck…”
I shoved the remaining gear in hand into my bag, without regard for how secure my picks were outside of it.
And in the oncoming darkness I heard another screech… quickly cut off. But I heard its final word, a voice that I swore should have been long lost and dead.
It screamed part of a name that it didn’t even have to finish for me to almost lose my stomach. Because its name wasn’t just a warning, it was a promise.
Bringing my attention back to the solid land I now stood on I suddenly felt the wind knocked out of me. I stumbled forward and fell to my knees. Catching my breath, I looked over my shoulder to see a vicious face. As the stars receded from my eyes I noticed the movement out of the corner of them slowly gather nearer. I stumbled to my feet, staring at the little monster.
The monster kept its eyes on me as it tilted its head and snickered. It pointed a spear at me and I shuddered. It had begun to toy with me.
“Well shit. Why do you have to do this to me today?” I uselessly asked.
Slowly raising into a crouch I began backing away. My heel caught on my bag and I reached awkwardly for it, hoisting it onto my shoulder as the small creatures moved in. They began giggling, drowning out any of the calming sounds that had been present in the morning.
Suddenly I felt a shock to the back of my head. I saw stars once again and fell forward. More giggling.
One came forward and pulled off my hat.
Another ran up and pulled my hair.
I heard a rip and turned in time to see my pack sliced open.
That could have been my back, adding more badges of honor to my body.
As I was distracted one of them came and dropped snow on my head.
The group continued giggling all the while.
I shivered as the snow melted down my neck and into my jacket. And the horrifying thought passed through my mind. “They’re toying with me.”
Suddenly I felt pain in my right hand. One had smashed the back of their spear onto it.
Just as quickly I was hit in the side, knocking me off balance. I caught myself just in time before another ran up and pulled on my hair until I hit the ground.
I grit my teeth and fought back as it tormented me. I heard a rip and felt my pack shift as one of my straps was cut.
Then I heard it and felt it all at once. It hurt. It hurt more than you could imagine or understand. I fell back when my hair suddenly released. As one of their knives sliced through it. I stared at the ragged end of one of my braids.
Then I screamed.
Then I cried.
Then I felt pain. I was hit across the face by a spear, busting my nose. It was almost as if they were telling me the old line “I’ll give you something to cry about.”
Their giggle cracked into a cackle. Then one walked up to me, their pitch black eyes staring directly into mine. I shuddered and forced myself not to look away.
I cautiously rolled up onto my feet and they simply watched. My pack swung awkwardly on one arm and I held back a growing gag as blood ran down the back of my throat.
It tilted its head and through its gnashing sharp teeth it told me, “Run.”
I could only feel relief that the sun was still high. Though overcast, I wouldn’t be running through the woods in the darkness. I turned heel and ran past the few behind me, barely dodging the stabs of their spears. They shouted as I began running, their giggles turning into a sound so wicked it echoed in my skull.
Now I was being hunted.
I ran awkwardly through the snow and ice, down the route I had taken just hours before. The high knee hop through the snow that has just been obliterating Alaska recently. As I ran the wind gusted and I would get blown off my feet, or the disturbed snow would fly into my face. Still I ran. I couldn’t quite see them when I looked back but I could sense it. They were behind me. They were next to me. They were above me in the trees.
Every time I tripped I cried out and I realized the voice was still with me. Still whispering “Run. Run. Run little flower or you’ll wilt and die.” I felt like it was mocking me. Mocking my name.
Shuddering, I felt the cooling beads of water on my forehead and cursed. Water means death. It means the minute I slow down hypothermia will kick in. And in the meantime I may frostbite because of the accumulated moisture in my gear.
But I couldn’t care about that. What would frostbite matter if I didn’t live? I’ve fought for my life before, I wouldn’t die this time.
My neck grew sore and I could feel that sense of impending doom. And I ran even harder, them watching my struggle and floundering about. I heard a thud near me and chanced a glance back to see a spear sticking out of the snow.
Gritting my teeth I pushed harder. The wind stroked the back of my neck and brought a sharp assault down the scars on my back. They began feasting on my fear.
But I could see it, the last stretch. I don’t know how I got through the steps but when I finally found the river and came to a pitching halt. I gasped and panted, tired and weighed down, muscles sore, bones slowly getting cold.
I made it to the river. I was safe. I was safe from the ones the hawk warned me of.
Until I wasn’t.
Until I heard a hoot, quickly turn into a screech.
I cursed. “Dena, why do you do this to me? What did I ever do?”
I heard the hoot again and shivered. I screamed at it. “Don’t you dare give me three.”
I didn’t wait for the third as once again they snickered at me.
I gritted my teeth and sprinted across the frozen river. I kept my legs pumping and moving until I tumbled over the other side. The other side and into my father with a shocked look on his face.
“Rosemary?”
I grabbed onto him. Felt him. Squeezed his arms tightly as I caught my breath.
“Ha… Ha ha. I made it.” I laughed out, shock taking hold. My laugh was short lived as I began coughing the blood that had pooled in my lungs from running in the cold.
I watched shadows cross my father’s face. Surprise, shock, relief, and finally something I hadn’t seen since I was a child. Fear.
He squeezed my face between his hands. “Stay with me. Don’t pass out.”
I continued laughing. “Me? Pass out? Never.” I stepped out of reach and bent over to vomit the blood that had built in my stomach from my broken nose.
My father shouted and I heard others come running from down the trail. “Calm down.”
Looking at him I grinned. “I made it.”
But then I heard it. It came through the trees. From all around. A swarm of giggles.
I watched my father pale. I heard the running footsteps from down the trail slow.
I shoved my father in the opposite direction. “RUN!”
And he listened. Bless the man, he listened.
He hurtled down the trail and when he saw the others in front of him he screamed at them to run. I came to a stuttering halt as I herded the others in front of me while the giggles came closer. Grew louder. Began swimming in my head again. I heard the swishing of snow falling as they ran by.
“Keep going!” I shouted at their backs until we got to the trail head, falling into the road. I screamed at the others to get in their cars. Luckily my family knows to listen without question. Their friends not so much. More corralling. More giggles. More movement in the corners of my eyes. At one point… a tug on my hair.
I got to my truck, hurtling into the side of it. Without pause I tossed my gear into the back and jumped inside. It felt like the old truck couldn’t turn on fast enough. All the while the wind swept through the trees and bullied it.
“Fuck fuck fuck fuck.” My mantra of the day.
My head began to feel cold while the blood on my face became even more annoying. I threw my car into first and I practically screamed when I heard a knock on my window. My sister Leah was on the other side. “GET YOUR ASS IN DUMBASS!” The movement in the trees behind her was too close.
I watched the final few people get into their cars and I peeled out. Skipping from first straight into third on the dangerously snowy road. I tried to clench my busted hand around the wheel only to be blasted with pain. Still, I continued driving as quickly as the roads would allow.
I was a mile down the long road when I heard the whisper.
“Shhh… shhh… shhh… shhh…”
And the sound of it grew louder. Slow at first then it became all consuming. I heard the crumbling and rumbling of the mountainside.
I looked toward the sound coming from the east and my jaw dropped as I saw the mountainside sliding in real time. Something told me I was safe. Just a faint whisper in the back of my head and the fact that the pain had receded.
With some remaining trepidation I stopped my truck and stepped out. I watched in terror and awe as the mountain fell… and fell… and crossed the river. I swallowed and shook my head and heard another raptor scream in the distance.
I got in my truck, turned the heat on as high as I could. I was shaking. Clearly from the cold, right? With a shiver I threw my truck into gear again and we made our way back to town. All the while the wind mockingly laughed behind me.
“Where have you been?” Leah asked after several miles.
“At the Pillars.” I whispered through my scratchy throat.
She looked at me, pale. “You left two days ago.”
I frowned. “I left this morning.”
“It’s been a day and a half.”
I didn’t respond. Even after her many pestering questions I didn’t answer. We drove the rest of the way home in silence as my brain tumbled.
Once we were home I stumbled to the bathroom. I stared at my busted nose in the mirror before climbing into the shower. Bruises covered my body and my hand began swelling, broken.
I wasn’t even allowed rest after that though. As I ate a well earned dinner my father sat me down and grilled me on where I’d been. Why I had been gone so long.
I learned a few things from our conversation - that I had been gone more than a day. That I hadn’t been seen on the mountain at all. That supposedly I shouldn’t have been alone with others having climbed the same time as me.
It was as I was chewed out I told my father I saw them. That I had seen the little people of legends. What the Athabascans give no real name to beyond “small ones.” What the Yup’ik call the Ircenrraat. What westerners call fae.
As I explained that I had been caught in a hunt my father’s face grew more and more incredulous. Before finally admitting he didn’t believe me. He dismissed me with few words after that statement. It hurt, but I understood.
I was gone only a day. That’s why my father can’t believe.
They’ve never allowed anyone gone less than a year.

SummerSlam 2024:
Bo Dallas vs Finn Bálor
Five years ago, at this very same event, Bray Wyatt debuted a brand new version of himself. A version known as The Fiend. A monstrous being that featured very little man in its existence, it was a demonic creature, feeding on the fear of those it crossed and becoming seemingly impervious due to it.
Five years later, the brother of the man who brought that thing into the wrestling world, faces the same man who fell victim at the feet of The Fiend. And just as Bray Wyatt did, Bo Dallas has some tricks in his sleeve, or...some rabbits in his hat.
[Finn Bálor enters first, the confident Irishman with a historic career who has made his mark as a legend in the business. From Bullet Club to training Becky Lynch & JD McDonagh to arguably the greatest NXT Champion of all time to the first ever Universal Champion to The Judgement Day. Tonight, he looks to build upon that illustrious status with a victory over the unpredictable Bo Dallas.
Bálor stands, ready to fight, when the lights dim out. Bálor is slightly puzzled, this isn't part of Bo's recent entrances.
At the top of the entrance way sits a door, an eerie glow doubled with an eerie vibration emanating from it. Suddenly, the door busts open.
White Rabbit Remix - Jefferson Airplane
Bálor watches as from the door emerges a figure. A figure seemingly humanoid in nature, but something slightly off, the fog filling the area makes it hard to discern what that is.
The fog clears and it becomes increasingly clear what's gone wrong here. The crowd gasps and then quiets.
Bo Dallas White Rabbit inspiration
Bo Dallas White Rabbit inspiration
A figure, very similar to the images above, exits the door and infringes on the sanctity of the ring as he approaches. Fur is matted along the arms, abdomen, legs. Splatters of a once viscous red liquid that has dried a crimson brown are visible all over the once pristine, white pelt.
And the face...a disgusting hybrid between a human and an inhumanely large rabbit. The ears jutting out of the face made out of that same...material. That unnatural fur. The left side of the face revealing what used to be a man. He looks...like Bo Dallas. The skin portion of the face is smothered in red, further stretching the meaning of recognizable. An almost leathery appearance coats the angry, red skin. A texture much too old for Taylor Rotunda's age of thirty three.
The teeth lay as jagged pieces of metal, unable to be contained by the maw of the creature.
The lights come up as the unholy monster enters the once sacred ring. A ring that has made this sport possible and a ring where the best matches in professional wrestling have occured, a ring that held the matches and moments that made you fall in love with wrestling in the first place.
And it's tainted, rendered unclean, by this animal. A chill runs down Finn Bálor's spine. He stands his ground, eyeing his bizarre opponent warily, unsure of what to expect from this unholy creation. Memories of a scene he's starred in before, not unlike this, flooding him.
The White Rabbit's grotesque visage contorts into a twisted semblance of a grin as he advances towards Bálor, his movements jerky and unnatural. Bálor braces himself for the impending confrontation, his senses on high alert as he prepares to defend himself against this monstrous aberration.
The bell rings, signaling the start of the match, and Bálor wastes no time in launching a flurry of strikes at The White Rabbit, hoping to catch him off guard and gain the early advantage. But The White Rabbit proves to be more agile than he appears, dodging Bálor's attacks with ease and countering with a brutal barrage of his own.
The White Rabbit toys with Bálor, taunting him with mocking gestures and sadistic laughter as he systematically dismantles his opponent with a series of harsh maneuvers. Bálor fights back with all his might, refusing to let fear or uncertainty cloud his judgment as he battles against the odds.
As the match progresses, The White Rabbit's dominance becomes increasingly evident, his unnerving presence casting a pall over the arena as he unleashes his full arsenal of twisted and unpredictable offense. Bálor struggles to keep pace, his every move countered with ruthless efficiency by his monstrous adversary.
But just when it seems that all hope is lost, Bálor summons the strength of his fighting spirit, rallying back with a defiant burst of energy that catches The White Rabbit off guard. With The White Rabbit still standing, Bálor delivers a thunderous Coup de Grâce, driving his feet into The White Rabbit's chest with bone-shattering force.
The impact ripples through the ring as The White Rabbit crumples to the canvas, his grotesque form writhing in agony. Bálor seizes the opportunity, pinning his monstrous opponent for...for a one count.
Bálor quickly climbs and attempts a second Coup De Grâce, this time to a downed opponent. The White Rabbit moves out of the way and quickly snaps the neck of Finn Bálor. The Rabbit pulls up the paralyzed form of Bálor, and sinches in Hell's Gates.
The referee calls for the bell as the lifeless form of Bálor begins to bleed from his nose and ears, the extraneous pressure from the submission evident.
The White Rabbit stares out at the audience, stares down at Bálor and exits the ring, he walks towards the door, goes through the portal and closes it behind him.
The lights come up and all that's left is the ravaged body of Finn Bálor.]
RAW, 8/12/24:
(Writers Note: Damian Priest is going to be uninvolved in this feud due to focusing on his main event aspirations and his growing distance from The Judgement Day.)
Two weeks after the emergence of one of the most disturbing figures we've ever seen grace the squared circle, Bo Dallas returns to RAW to address the events of SummerSlam.
He says that when he returned to WWE four months ago, he was a very nervous man. He was wracked with feelings of uncertainty and fear, he remembers going into a match with a specific man, Joe Gacy. He remembers being the most scared he's ever been, you have to understand, Bo wasn't like his brother. Bo didn't get 'extreme', he didn't get the opportunity to have matches like that and here he was.
Faced with a madman, challenged to a Love and War match. Joe, he taught Bo something that night, he told him "Fulfill Your Destiny." And it was at that moment, that Bo realized something. He realized what Bray had been doing all those years.
If you can take your fear, and manifest it into something physical, something truly special can be born, and better yet, it leaves you, the man behind the magic, completely fearless.
Before Dallas can continue, The Judgement Day appears, Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor & JD McDonagh surround the ring. Bálor says that Bo caught him off guard at SummerSlam, and he wants a rematch, especially seeing as how without his smoke and mirrors, Bo sure does seem fragile.
"It's true. I wouldn't be able to fight all three of you by myself, which is why I'm so glad I don't have to."
BRAUN!
The Monster Among Men makes his first appearance in almost a year, marching out on stage. The Judgement Day is already sufficiently rattled before the titantron goes a mossy green and Erick Rowan appears besides Strowman, standing with his former Wyatt Family brother.
Strowman & Rowan storm the ring causing JD & Dominik to flee and escape, but Bálor turns around into Grim Affection. Dallas stands tall, inheriting the family Bray built. What's that saying? The brother of my brother is my brother? Something like that.
Bash In Berlin 2024:
Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan vs The Judgement Day (Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor & JD McDonagh)
[Following a confident, braggadocios entrance by The Judgement Day, Dallas, Strowman and Rowan mark their arrival with a Code Orange performed remix of Feared. The music, calling back to the numerous other songs Code Orange has provided for the Rotunda family.
Dallas, flanked by the hulking figures of Strowman and Rowan makes for an intimidating visual. The Judgement Day have an experience edge though, especially with Bálor having personally trained and scouted McDonagh several years ago.
Dallas and Mysterio start the match and Bo quickly gets flustered by the speed and lucha experience of Dominik. Though Dominik has control early, Dallas gets fed up, and following a lucky strike, tags out to Braun Strowman.
Strowman dismantles Dominik, tossing him around the ring with ease. He connects with a heart-throb to the chest before hoisting Mysterio into a move we have not seen from Strowman...since he was a follower.
The hanging triangle lock is applied, Strowman squeezing around the neck of Dominik as Mysterio hangs limply. Dominik kicks out, inciting Braun to return another maneuver. The reverse chokeslam connects and Strowman places a boot on Dominik's chest, but Mysterio still manages to fight out.
Strowman brings Rowan in, who locks a bear hug forcing Dominik to scramble for escape. Despite Dominik's surviving the bear hug, his relief is short lived as Rowan cinches a vice grip around the skull. Dominik creates separation, and Rowan tries to flatten him with a spin kick, but Mysterio ducks. A dropkick to the knee and a 619 follows, giving Dominik an opportunity to tag out.
Finn Bálor is brought in and begins striking away on Rowan, littering the bigger man with bruises. A well placed pele kick wobbles Rowan and leaves him victim to a shotgun dropkick into the turnbuckles. Bálor attempts a Coup De Grâce, but Rowan avoids shoving Finn into the corner. Rowan charges in, but Bálor hops over him and Erick crashes into the steel post.
JD is tagged in and immediately hits a pump helluva kick on the cornered Rowan. Rowan is down to a knee and McDonagh comes from behind with a leap over Rowan culminating in a stunner. A kick out by Rowan inspires McDonagh to connect with a swanton bomb for a near-fall.
JD attempts for Devlinside, yet discovers Rowan is too big of a man to be trying that on. Rowan gets grip on the neck and goes for a chokeslam, McDonagh does a backflip out of it landing on his feet. JD connects with a superkick, followed by a springboard moonsault DDT.
Dallas breaks up the pin, Dominik rushes in to even the odds, Strowman neutralizes Dominik, Bálor brawling with Braun. Chaos unfolds, and eventually Dallas and co. clear the ring. Braun runs the Strowman Express on Judgement Day plowing through each member at ringside, except for JD who catches him with a penalty kick after hopping onto the apron.
JD and Rowan begin to battle again as the legal men, McDonagh knees Rowan in the face and dives with a crossbody for a two count. JD tags out to Bálor, who allows Rowan to bring in Bo Dallas.
Dallas and Bálor, now both as their mortal selves, begin to brawl. Bálor connects with a slingblade, and a shotgun dropkick driving Bo nearly through the turnbuckles. Bàlor attempts a Coup De Grâce, but Dallas avoids and attempts Grim Affection. Bálor slips out and locks the head up under the arm, connecting with a snap elbow drop across the heart.
Bálor climbs now once more, and Dallas hangs him up before sending Finn to the canvas below with a superplex. A near-fall follows, and Dallas clings to the leg of Bálor, trying to prevent a tag. Finn kicks him away and reintroduces McDonagh to the fray.
JD flusters Dallas with strikes and speed, but as he locks onto the wrist and attempts his springboard moonsault DDT, Dallas catches him in position and connects with Grim Affection. Strowman and Rowan plow through Dominik and Bálor preventing a save.
Dallas gets the victory for his team, and alongside his disciples of destruction, stands tall. The entire locker room put on notice.]
Over the next several weeks, The Judgement Day keeps their distance from Dallas's clan. Dallas fastly finds a new target, challenging The Final Testament. Dallas continuously tells Karrion Kross that he was destined for this, dating back almost a decade (in reference to Kross's stint as The White Rabbit in Lucha Underground.)
We get a very fun Authors Of Pain/Strowman & Rowan match out of it, and by the end of September, Bo has successfully convinced Karrion Kross to abandon AOP, Paul Ellering and even Scarlett, adding yet another massive man to his growing group.
October arrives and with his group nearing completion, Dallas targets a man his brother knew very well. That man being Seth Rollins. Dating back to The Shield & The Wyatt Family's iconic feud to The Fiend chasing Rollins' Universal Championship, Rollins was always one of Bray's best rivals. Not to mention, Dallas and Rollins have history from their days in FCW together, only Rollins has so significantly eclipsed Dallas in success and he's sure to rub that in Bo's face now.
You may think the numbers game is so insurmountable and overwhelming, but one puzzle piece that makes this that much more interesting is who Seth has been teaming with as of late. His protege and trainee, Nathan Frazer.
There's a segment featuring Dallas, flanked by his followers and Rollins with Frazer, but the tension is so heavy between Bo and Nathan, you would think they were the only two people in the ring. Frazer addresses his fear of Dallas, and that fear was proven valid considering the damage Dallas has done to the foes he's encountered since.
Dallas cost Nathan his best friend, he cost him his tag team titles, he cost him his brother! But Nathan has news for Bo, he is not running anymore.
Dallas steps forward, looking to acknowledge the impact he's had on Frazer.
"Nate, is it? I don't know how to tell you this, but...I don't even know who you are."
Bo is calloused and cold, and simply decides to feed Frazer and Rollins to the wolves. We get a tag match between Rollins and Frazer vs Strowman and Rowan, with commentary making note of Rollins and Braun being former tag team champions together, ending in victory for Rollins and Frazer.
Armageddon 2024:
Bo Dallas vs Seth Rollins
[The anticipation is high as Bo Dallas and Seth Rollins step into the ring, flanked by their respective allies. Rollins, accompanied by Nathan Frazer, exudes the confidence of a former champion as he eyes Dallas, who seems to stand that much taller alongside the imposing trio of Braun Strowman, Erick Rowan, and Karrion Kross.
The match begins with Dallas and Rollins locking up in the center of the ring, each vying for control. Rollins gains the early advantage with his technical prowess, countering Dallas's power-based offense with precision strikes and fast maneuvers. But Dallas refuses to back down, using his size and strength to overpower Rollins and gain the upper hand.
As the match progresses, both competitors unleash a barrage of moves, each refusing to give an inch in their quest for victory. Rollins employs his signature high-flying arsenal, soaring through the air with breathtaking dives and aerial assaults that keep Dallas on the defensive. But Dallas proves to be a resilient opponent, weathering Rollins's onslaught and mounting several counterattacks of his own.
In the final moments of the match, Rollins, alongside Frazer battle off Dallas's trio of monsters. Rollins looks for a Curb Stomp, that Dallas avoids. Dallas hooks on for Grim Affection, but Rollins latches onto the arm, trapping Bo before spinning him into a RainTrigger knee strike. A definitive Curb Stomp follows and Rollins is able to secure the victory giving Bo his first clean singles loss since returning.]
With Survivor Series fast approaching, the men Dallas has targeted come back to haunt him, as Rollins and Frazer form something of a truce with The Judgement Day, seeking to take down the common enemy in Bo Dallas.
We get some interesting interactions such as Kross trying to convince JD that he can see the darkness in him, harkening back to JD's NXT character of old, only for JD to tell Kross that he doesn't know anything about him before shattering his nose with a wicked headbutt.
With Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor, JD McDonagh, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins banding together Bo seems to be just one man short. It's the RAW prior to Survivor Series when Dallas, Strowman, Rowan and Kross stand on stage staring down the babyface quintet. The crowd waits with baited breath before Love Is Blind hits and Joe Gacy strolls on stage, making his main roster debut to side with his NXT foe.
They charge the ring and a brawl breaks out, and as security tries to keep the ten men apart, we here a distinguished William Regal shout
"WarGames!"
Survivor Series 2024:
Team Dallas (Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy & Karrion Kross) vs Team Rollins (Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor, JD McDonagh, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins) - WarGames
[It is decided that Joe Gacy and Seth Rollins will be opening this match. Both men selected by their teams for their stamina in matches like these, Gacy from his CZW days, Rollins having been WWE's premier workhorse for years.
The bell rings and they make their way on to the steel connector between the two rings. They begin wallaying on each other with forearms before Joe sneaks in a boot to the midsection, Gacy attempts a powerbomb on the steel, but Rollins reverses with a back body drop.
Seth looks for a superkick, but Gacy catches the foot and sends Rollins into the left ring. Rollins looks for a spinning forearm, but Gacy ducks and gores Rollins with a shoulder thrust. Joe sails over Rollins into the ring, and using his deceptive athleticism, looks for his handspring lariat.
Rollins catches him with a superkick and tries for a Pedigree. Gacy is able to muscle up Rollins into an Alabama Slam, he then throws Rollins into the turnbuckles forcing Seth to take a seat. A big crossbody to the seated, cornered Rollins follows and Gacy begins to reign.
Joe starts targeting the bad back sending Rollins writhing with forearms and knees to the lumbar. He eventually gets a knee on the spine with a tight grip around the mouth, controlling Seth's breathing. Rollins begins to fire up and fight out with elbows to the midsection. Rollins hits a leaping knee strike to Gacy and takes him down a peg.
Rollins attempts a Curb Stomp, but Gacy moves landing Winds Of Change as Rollins turns around. Gacy tries for a running senton, but Rollins moves this time. Curb Stomp attempt, Gacy moves, handspring lariat, Rollins ducks, superkick, Curb Stomp connects.
Rollins knows he can't make the cover so he climbs to the top to inflict more damage. Frogsplash, but Gacy gets the knees up. Joe shoves Rollins into the ropes hoping to connect with an elbow to the back, but Rollins rebounds with a spinning forearm. Gacy ducks locking on for a German Suplex, Rollins lands on his feet and closes in with a V-Trigger, Gacy rebounds off the ropes into a Falcon Arrow and the countdown begins.
Erick Rowan is the next entry, joining Joe Gacy as a focused duo. Rowan pounces on Rollins, but Seth fights back, attempting a RainTrigger but Rowan catches him by the face, in an Iron Claw like grip. Rowan looks for a slam using the claw grip, but Rollins hooks onto the head and reverses into a DDT.
Rollins begins to litter both Joe and Rowan with corner forearms, Rowan eventually catches Rollins and attempts a two handed chokeslam. Rollins dropkicks the body of Rowan mid-slam, and recuperates. He attempts a Pedigree, but Rowan reverses with a back body drop, Rollins lands on his feet and nails an enziguri to stumble the big man.
He mounts Rowan in the corner and begins landing repeated right hands, Rowan shoves him off the middle turnbuckle and closes the distance with a big boot. He positions Seth in the corner before slapping Gacy and hyping him up, ala The Bludgeon Brothers.
Gacy charges for a crossbody to the downed Rollins, but Seth springs up, sails over the running Gacy and lands a dropkick to Rowan. A leaping knee to the mouth follows and Rollins gets Rowan back in Pedigree position.
Gacy comes over with a clothesline that Rollins ducks before hitting a superkick to Gacy, Rowan tries to whip Rollins into the corner but Seth reverses and Erick smashes into Gacy. Rollins jumps to the middle turnbuckle raining down with a barrage of right hands to Rowan then Gacy.
Rowan and Gacy try to catch their bearings before turning around into a Phoenix Splash Crossbody from Rollins and the countdown begins.
Finn Bálor is the next entry, entering a couple of chairs into the field for him and Rollins. They stare each other down, remembering all the wars they've been through and begin to beat down on Rowan and Gacy. It's going well at first, with Gacy especially being incapacitated, before Rowan stops Bálor mid chair swing.
He mule kicks Rollins and rips the chair out of Finn's hands before tossing Finn into the corner. Rollins shortly after joins him. Rowan proceeds to biel toss Rollins who tucks and rolls to come out unscathed. Bálor is then biel tossed on top of Rollins before Rowan throws the aforementioned chair into the face of Bálor.
Rowan attempts to chokeslam Seth on top of the other chair, Rollins scrambles and kicks the chair over so it's legs up. Rowan proceeds with the chokeslam anyway, delivering Rollins onto the bottom of the chair. He then sets up another chair in the corner, wedging it between turnbuckles. He vaults Bálor in that direction, but Finn slides low to avoid connection, only for Gacy to bull pounce him into the chair anyway.
Rowan and Gacy survey the carnage they've caused, as Bálor tries to crawl into the other ring. Rowan joins him on the steel connector and despite Finn's valiant efforts, is able to claw slam him onto the steel beam as the countdown begins.
Bo Dallas is the next entry, and he doesn't waste time getting his hands dirty. He simply passes his objects of destruction their tools. A table, a length of chain and a toolbox. He then observes as his monsters begin to wreak havoc.
Gacy whips at Rollins with the chain, before wrapping it around his face and neck. Rowan squeezes between Bálor's fingers with pliers, applying pressure as he kneels on his back.
Gacy throws the toolbox into the face of an unsuspecting Rollins. Gacy sets up the table against the turnbuckles. He tries to whip Rollins into it, but Seth catches himself, he fights back against Rowan and Gacy but Joe gets a knee to the face before lifting Rollins on his shoulder and charging him through the table.
Rowan yanks Bálor up and delivers him with biel tosses onto the chain and toolbox as the countdown begins.
Dominik Mysterio is the next entry, and he quickly realizes the challenge he's up against. He ducks under Rowan and Gacy, tackling Bo and unloading with right hands. Rowan and Gacy drag him off and begin mercilessly beating on him.
Dallas calls them off, dragging Dominik into the right ring, telling Rowan and Gacy that he'll handle Mysterio. He looks for Grim Affection, but Dominik escapes and rolls backwards with Dallas before hitting a dropkick to the back. Bo is in position, but as Dallas runs the ropes, Rowan catches him by the throat.
Rowan chokeslams Dominik into the arms of Gacy who connects with a German Suplex. The ominous duo gaze down at the broken body of Mysterio, before feeding him to Dallas, who connects with Grim Affection as the countdown begins.
Karrion Kross is the next entry, and introduces a very special weapon. A barbed wire wrapped 2x4 as well as a suspicious grey baggie.
He begins brandishing Bálor and Rollins with the wood and wire. He rips at the flesh and rakes it across the face of Rollins. He begins toying with Bálor, and releases the 2x4 asking Finn to stand up and show him what he's got. Bálor fires up, and sweeps the legs sending Kross back first onto the barbed wire. He then stomps on the chest caving Kross further in.
He beckons Rowan and Gacy to try their best, and as they begin to swarm, the numbers game becomes too much. Rowan with a spinning heel kick, Gacy with a crossbody against the ropes. They continue to dismantle their foes as the countdown begins.
JD McDonagh is the next entry, and introduces several chairs. He cracks Gacy, Rowan and Dallas repeatedly, bruising them with the stiff chair strikes.
He gets Bo in the corner and hits a running dropkick with the chair under his feet, ala Rob Van Dam. McDonagh is rolling, but here comes Kross. Karrion and McDonagh have had something of a personal sub rivalry, and Karrion relishes punishing McDonagh. A fallaway suplex downs McDonagh and leads to Kross wielding a chair.
Swing and a miss, swing a miss, swing and connects with the foot of JD who was going for a roundhouse, swing and the chair lodges itself around the head of McDonagh, headbutt by McDonagh with the chair around the head, both men down and the countdown begins.
Braun Strowman is the next entry, the final for Team Dallas. He introduces multiple tables and sets them up in a row of three. Dominik chooses this time to reappear and swiftly gets chokeslammed through one of the tables.
Braun is able to get JD up in a hanging triangle lock with the chain wrapped around his neck, but Bálor and Rollins come to the save. Finn, Seth and JD work to take down Gacy, Rowan, Strowman and Kross.
McDonagh scaling the cage, Rowan, Dallas and Strowman starting to recover, Gacy on one table, Kross on one table, Rollins and Bálor climb, frogsplash through the table from Rollins, Coup De Grâce through the table from Bálor, moonsault from the top of the cage by McDonagh!
Everyone is down as the countdown begins.
Nathan Frazer is the next and final entry, Frazer is a one man wrecking crew as he enters, showing off his agility using both rings to his advantage. Frazer clears Kross, Gacy, Strowman, Rowan but faulters as he encounters Dallas.
Bo taunts Frazer from his knees, and as Frazer hesitates to take the kill shot, Rowan takes advantage with a claw slam to Nathan. Rollins capitalizes with a superkick to Dallas and a chair shot to the head of Rowan, once Erick's head is sufficiently trapped inside the chair, Rollins hops onto the back and hits a modified Pedigree, jamming the chair into the throat and jaw.
Gacy is seen stalking Rollins, having wrapped the barbed wire from the 2x4 around his arm, he charges in with a handspring barbed wire wrapped lariat to Rollins. Bálor closes in with a shotgun dropkick into the corner before fetching the grey baggie. He opens it, emptying out thumbtacks onto the canvas.
Bo comes over, striking with Bálor. Finn gets the upper hand and climbs for a standing Coup De Grâce, similar to how he tried to put The White Rabbit away at SummerSlam. He misses, going feet first into the tacks, Dallas grabs hold of the head and connects with Grim Affection on the tacks.
Three seconds later, and Team Dallas has survived WarGames. Bo collects up his soldiers, standing above the battered bodies of his opposition. One question remains clear, who can stop Bo Dallas?]
With Team Dallas pulling out a massive victory inside arguably the most grueling match type in WWE history, they look forward to moving on from the men they dismantled at Survivor Series.
One man, though, refuses to let them. That man is Nathan Frazer. Still haunted by the price he paid, the friend he lost, the halt in momentum, due to Bo's arrival in NXT.
A couple of weeks following WarGames, Frazer comes out to call out Bo Dallas, Seth Rollins tries to talk Frazer down and calm him, but Nathan is insistent. He failed to take Bo down, he failed to make things right, he needs to beat Bo Dallas.
Strowman, Rowan, Kross and Gacy emerge. Gacy states that Bo isn't here tonight, but they would be more than happy to show Frazer exactly what he's in for if he wants to keep...chasing rabbits.
The monsters storm the ring and surround Rollins and Frazer in a very hound like way. Just before they pounce, a theme song hits, the lights go up and wouldn't you know it, motherfucking Axiom arrives.
Frazer & Rollins take advantage of the distraction and Axiom lends his hand, leading to the monsters retreating. Rollins guards the ring as Axiom and Nathan Frazer stare each other down.
'Hug It Out' chants run through the arena, and Axiom & Frazer embrace, putting the past behind them.
Over the next two weeks, we get two very interesting matches. The first, a street fight between Bo Dallas and Nathan Frazer, in which Frazer finally gets an opportunity at singles revenge on Bo in a brutal, chaotic brawl. Dallas wins this match with help from his possee.
The second, Karrion Kross vs Seth Rollins, a good showcase for Kross as he steps up against a main eventer and one of the best in the world. Rollins wins in a good match, but it's what happens after that draws attention.
Rollins is seated in the corner when the lights go out, section by section, plunging Rollins into darkness and for the first time, Seth Rollins meets The White Rabbit.
The Rabbit crawls towards Rollins who closes his eyes in fear, creating parallels to a similar scene five years ago. Rollins, though, this time, stands up and stares down The Rabbit.
Seth grabs a microphone and stares down this fiendish entity. "Crown Jewel, me and my boys vs you and yours."
The Rabbit cocks his head to the side and the lights go out once more, when they come up, a hat remains in the ring. A hat very similar to Uncle Howdys', Rollins lifts it and a rabbit jumps out. At the bottom of the hat is a note, written on light blue, Firefly Funhouse themed paper.
"WE ACCEPT."
Crown Jewel 2024:
Axiom, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins vs Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan
[Five years after Bray Wyatt defeated Seth Rollins at this same event to become Universal Champion, Rollins faces off against his spiritual successor and younger brother, Bo Dallas. Frazer and Axiom share a quick nod of understanding, their strategy clear: use their speed and agility to outmaneuver their larger opponents. On the other side of the ring, Dallas, Strowman, and Rowan stand tall, their imposing presence a stark contrast to the quickness of their adversaries.
The match begins with Axiom and Dallas squaring off for the first time since NXT when Dallas took Axiom's title. The two competitors circle each other cautiously before locking up in a test of strength. Axiom utilizes his lightning-fast strikes and acrobatic prowess to keep Dallas off balance, darting in and out of range with precision. Shortly after, Nathan and Rowan engage in a battle of power versus speed, with Frazer using his agility to evade Rowan's powerful strikes while delivering rapid-fire kicks and strikes of his own.
As the match progresses, Rollins enters the fray, unleashing a flurry of high-flying maneuvers on his ex-partner, Strowman. Braun struggles to keep pace with his nimble opponent as Rollins utilizes his speed to his advantage, ducking and weaving around Strowman's attempts at offense before delivering an enzuigiri that sends the big man staggering backwards.
Rollins lands a knee to the nose and a step-stool Curb Stomp off the back of Frazer shortly after, but Rowan saves the match. Axiom and Nathan join forces, working in tandem to take Rowan out and wear him down with a series of double-team maneuvers. Rollins exits the ring and, acting in the role of Reigns, assists in hitting a Shield Bomb through the announce table on Rowan.
Despite the valiant efforts of Dallas, Strowman, and Rowan, the tide of the match begins to turn in favor of Rollins and his team. Axiom unleashes a devastating flurry of strikes on Dallas once Strowman and Seth tag out, culminating in a rattling roundhouse kick that leaves the former champion reeling. Meanwhile, Nathan Frazer climbs to the top turnbuckle and launches himself into the air, executing a picture-perfect shooting star press that connects squarely with Bo Dallas, leaving him sprawled out on the canvas.
With Dallas incapacitated, Nathan seizes the opportunity to go for the pin, hooking the leg as the referee counts the three. The crowd erupts into cheers as Rollins, Axiom, and Nathan Frazer celebrate their hard-fought victory, Frazer finally getting his revenge on the man who permanently altered his career.]
January arrives and the Dallas clan set their sights on the Royal Rumble, more specifically, helping Bo to win the Royal Rumble. To fulfill his destiny at WrestleMania.
When the Rumble arrives, they're doing a great job of tearing through everyone in the match. Rowan and Gacy aren't even entries, but continuously skirt around the rules, helping Bo, Kross and Strowman rack up eliminations.
They eliminate the likes of Finn Bálor, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn before they encounter the one man wrecking crew that is Randy Orton. Orton swiftly eliminates Kross and Strowman before turning his attention to Dallas. Bo is able to force him into position for Grim Affection, but Orton escapes landing an RKO and eliminating Bo Dallas.
When the Rumble has concluded, Bo has a hard time accepting this loss, and sics his men on Orton. Orton gets a victory over a game Karrion Kross leading to the onslaught by Strowman, Rowan and Gacy. However, this draws the call of the disgruntled men Bo's crew eliminated at the Rumble.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn.
Kevin and Randy already have a friendly history, and Zayn, coming off an Intercontinental Title loss to Ilja Dragunov in August, partners up with his long time tag partner to fight the cause.
Bo acknowledges the history his brother had with Randy Orton, including Orton burning down his childhood home, The Wyatt Compound.
Finally, at Elimination Chamber, much like The Shield and The Wyatt Family over a decade prior, we get a six man tag.
Elimination Chamber 2025:
Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan vs Kevin Owens, Randy Orton & Sami Zayn
[It's very poetic, Bo has been very much hitting all of Bray's best moments in modern day versions. The demonic alter-ego debuting at SummerSlam against Finn Bálor, facing off with Seth Rollins at Crown Jewel and now a six man tag at Elimination Chamber.
Dallas lets his opponents know ahead of this match that he has some tricks up his sleeves, but that a truly good magician never reveals his secrets.
There's plenty of fun interactions, Strowman & Zayn having been Braun's first feud away from The Wyatt Family, Strowman & Owens and the terrorizing Kevin went through in 2018, Rowan & Orton facing off for the first time since Orton went after The Wyatt Family in 2017, Bo & Sami reigniting their NXT feud from 2014.
The match ends when Braun sets Owens, Zayn and Orton up in separate corners. He biel tosses Orton, biel tosses Sami and goes for Owens, but Kevin fights back hitting a Stunner on the big man. Bo comes in and eats a Pop-Up Powerbomb for a near-fall.
Kevin gets Dallas in the corner for a Kevin Cannonball and connects, once, twice, Kevin looking for a third cannonball from the corner. Zayn stops Owens and tells Kevin to let Sami end this. Bo staggers up and Sami looks for a Helluva Kick from the corner to the right of the one Owens is stood in.
HELLUVA KICK! TO OWENS!
Kevin falls into Zayn's arms and Sami pushes him to the ground before walking off, leaving Owens defenseless.
Bo crawls over looking for Grim Affection, Kevin escapes, superkick connects. Both men fall and Owens makes the hot tag to Orton. Orton clears out Rowan, Gacy, Kross and Strowman with RKOs before setting up Dallas for the punt. No one to help the wounded rabbit, The Viper closes in.
Orton's momentum is halted though by a hand grabbing his foot at ringside, the person is in a hood and just as Orton shakes free of his grip, he turns around into Grim Affection for the win.
Bo Dallas has pinned Randy Orton. His family in ruins all around the ring, Bo celebrates his victory, and is proven to be a very truthful man. He really did have quite a few tricks up his sleeve tonight.]
It is advertised that on RAW the following night, we will find out the man who cost Randy Orton at Elimination Chamber.
When the time comes, Bo, flanked by his men, states that long ago his brother put into motion a plan. A plan that would unite six people together, the six most optimal people to incite change into this company. They were handpicked by Bray since the beginning.
Braun Strowman, Bray's black sheep, the man he personally discovered and brought into the WWE to be part of his family.
Erick Rowan, Bray's left hand and the man who carried out Bray's commands for years, one of his most loyal soldiers.
Joe Gacy, a man who felt an indescribable spiritual connection to Bray Wyatt, Bray told Bo that he didn't know who the final member was, but that the man meant to fill the role would, that they would feel an intrinsic, undeniable pull.
Karrion Kross, a man with goals very similar to Bray, and a man who was being mentored by Bray backstage prior to his passing, his golden child.
And now that just leaves one person. Someone who knew Bray very well, someone Bray found much success with in this very ring. So without further ado, the final member of The Wyatt Si-
Randy Orton enters, he denounces this ceremony and is out for blood tonight. Bo states that it's actually perfectly convenient that Orton be here for this, seeing as Randy also knows this person very well.
"In fact, Randy, you're the reason this person wasn't here for five years. The past is a funny thing Randy, the axe forgets, the tree...oh, the tree always remembers."
Realization sets in on the face of Orton before the hooded figure blasts Randy as he turns around. The hood comes off, and there stands, the final member of The Wyatt Six.
Matt Hardy.
Randy Orton is able to get his revenge on Matt Hardy in Matt's last WWE match ever, a street fight on an episode of RAW. It's a grueling, physical battle, but Orton knows the numbers game is too large for him to seek revenge on Bo Dallas.
Besides, Dallas has his hands full.
Just as quickly as The Wyatt 6 began, some subtraction begins to occur. One week, Rowan will be with them backstage only to not come to the ring and go missing, Kross and Strowman face similar fates, leaving only Dallas, Gacy and Hardy.
Dallas begins to question where his family members have gone, and Gacy vows to protect him. That is moments before Dallas and Gacy head to the ring, and Matt Hardy is no longer with them.
Backstage footage airs of something destroying Matt Hardy, beating him violently, and as the being turns its head, it is made clear.
The Demon is here.
Heartbeats fill the arena and Gacy exits the ring to guard the perimeter. Red lights dawn on the squared circle, before The Demon attacks Gacy at ringside making quick work of him.
The Demon crawls into the ring before Dallas grabs a mic, kneeling down to The Demon's level.
"I know what you want, there's only one place for souls like ours to do this. Hell In A Cell."
On the go home show for WrestleMania, Finn Bálor and Bo Dallas have a face to face, Finn says that The Demon never got to meet The Fiend but it will get to meet The Rabbit.
"In layman's terms, Bo. You bring your demons, I'll bring mine."

This is long... This is very long.
I'm married, two children, my Wife is awesome. We live in a small community in a wooded/rural area. It's not Donner Pass but we are out in the boonies. We have to be somewhat able and self sufficient. It's not off grid prepper stuff but we have to be able to do more ourselves than if we lived in town.
A few years back, my Wifes Friend and I guess you'd call him a friendly acquaintance of mine moved up on the mountain. Let's call him Frank. The guy has issues, as do we all, but he's functional, intelligent, and quite handy. A decent guy to know to help get things done.
When he moved in, the property he bought was a disaster. Previous owner used to get all manner of Amazon returns and stockpile the stuff. Also anything else he could drag home for free or dirt cheap. All kinds of crap everywhere with zero organization. A couple of giant burn piles where of course he's burning just whatever, a pickup truck bed camper in disrepair full of stuff, ratty tarps and tents covering more crap. Squalor and chaos.
The property does have a functional well and **some** kind of septic system and there's power run to it. There's a small building attached to a camper but with some work it can be made liveable. So we sort of have the bare essentials covered. We just have a ton of work to do.
So I'm excited, my Wife is excited, Frank is excited as well. We all figure let's get Frank set up. Running water, working toilet, sink, wood/coal stove, major cleanup on the property, a water heater, washing machine, a shower or even a bath tub would be real nice as well. Basic stuff so he can do for himself because at this point he's showering and doing laundry and eating supper all at our house. I figure if I'm in a spot, I could go up there and have a shower or do laundry you know?
We get to work. First we have to finish even moving the guy in so he can be rid of the trailer he's renting in a trailer park. Turns out the guy is a hoarder and it's heavy. The guy has more stuff packed into his trailer then we actually know what to do with. At least it's nothing disgusting and most of it I can see at least some value in it. I can see why he'd keep hold of things like this but Man there's a LOT!!! I don't know how he can even store all this stuff so I figured let's make this easy and I bought him a 40' shipping container and had it delivered to his place. We get it there and we assemble storage racks that were left on the property by the previous owner inside the shipping container. I'm not rich but at this point I don't terribly miss the money and I figure helping this dude out will benefit me and my Family. Within two weeks, Frank is out of his trailer and everything he owns is jammed into the shipping container. It's tight but it's somewhat organized at least.
Now! Let's get to work! And we do. We start clearing out some of the actual trash. Say 15 hours and we can notice that we made a dent. Another 15 hours, it still kind of looks for shit but we can at least make sense of the place now. We're really doing something here! It's heavy and dirty and disgusting but we're having a lot of fun with it and feeling pretty good. As we're going, we find some actual decent things in the piles that the previous owner left behind and we're trying to not waste anything because we're not rich and we might need the stuff.
It gets to a point where it's starting to become really dirty work and even a garden hose would be pretty dang amazing just to at least wash up a little bit because we really don't know what's in some of these piles but Man we're digging deep into them! My Wife goes through the nonsense of getting his power turned on. Frank has enough money saved to get it turned on and to keep it going a while.
Ok, we got power and we can make some water happen now. We scrounged up a shitter and a sink, bought some PVC and got that happening. Now we can wash up and we don't have to crap in the woods anymore. We also found a decent Harmann wood/coal burner and installed that. Nothing ideal but we're looking pretty damn good compared to when we started. The stove was free. The previous owner switched to pellets and had no use for it. We had to get it out and move it of course but nothing we can't handle.
So now it's getting to at least 40 hours at Franks place, maybe 60 hours. I wasn't really keeping track. The place still looks like hell but we're making steady progress and it's more or less "liveable". Meanwhile there are things piling up at my own house. The roof needs a little attention, some work on my backhoe, vehicle repairs and maintenance. Normal everyday stuff that got put to the back burner for a while as we set this guy up but it's starting to pile up and I have to get this shit done.
"Hey Frank, you mind coming down a little while and pitching in with this or that?"
At first, yea he makes his way down and helps out. Not at the crack of dawn, say 11 AM or so. Fine and dandy. This isn't pay work and I don't start early myself, nor do I go very long and hard on these tasks. Put in a couple hours until I feel like I accomplished something and call it a day. I don't think I'm asking much.
After a bit though, he's showing up later and later. If Frank says 12-ish, it means like 2PM or something. One day I have to remove the backhoe from my tractor in order to replace some hydraulic lines. This assembly weighs about 4 tons. It's on a 1967 Case 580 CK. Not the biggest thing but it's no joke. Frank is skilled with cranes and forklifts and other heavy stuff and I figure he could just come down and help me make damn sure this thing is going to be stable. I'm going to have the hydraulics opened up and if it's not properly supported it could move on me and that might well be it for me.
So the day comes. I have my tractor in the driveway and I have the backhoe dismounted from the tractor but still hooked to the hydraulics by around 10-11AM. Now I'm sitting and waiting on Frank. Finally about 1AM he rolls in. The first thing he does is to sit down and use my blowtorch to clean out his one hitter so he can do a little wake and bake. I've been ready and waiting for a couple hours and now the dude is going to sit and get high before we're going to work with some heavy shit and he's burning my propane to do so. Yea I'm kind of annoyed and I let him know. I tried to not be too much of an asshole but I wasn't pleasant about it. I didn't yell or anything but I'm sure I came off kind of asshole-ish.
He finishes up with the one hitter, takes a few wacks off it, says he's go tot go home and crap. Lovely... He's been lighting up my toilet for a while now, what's the big deal? Anyhow he heads back home. I'm sitting there for an hour or so scratching my ass, screw it I'll figure it out. I'm scared as hell but I manage to get my lines replaced. I bring the tractor into position and get the bottom mounting pins locked in. There are two more up top of the backhoe assembly and then it's solidly mounted. I screwed up by not hooking the hydraulic lines from the tractor to the backhoe and doesn't the damn thing just sort of drop right to the ground because the boom, bucket, and dipper arm are open. I took precautions against this but I guess I didn't do very well. I didn't lose the whole show but it scared the hell out of me and I shut the tractor down and walked away for a while. It was a split second and if I was under it I'd either have been dead or wishing for it. I calmed myself down after a while and finished the job. Frank never showed back up that day.
After I got done, I was sitting there a while. After that dopamine hit from getting the job done wore off I was starting to feel pretty let down and pissed off. My Wife and I put real time, and heart and soul in up at Franks place. We'd get up there about 9AM-10AM and get to it. Half the time, Frank would be hungover and it would literally be 2-3 hours until he was any kind of mobile. We're up there at his place trying to get shit done so he has a setup and he's dragging his ass because he was up until 3AM the previous night getting shitfaced.
The plan was, after he was set, we'd get into some nonsense. Cleanouts from tenants that left an apartment full of stuff, scrapping, maybe some lawn work, plowing snow on the mountain here, whatever. Not getting rich but at least paying the bills and having a laugh. At first, Frank is all about it. The cleanouts were his idea. I never knew you actually could get some decent pay for this type of thing. After a while though Frank starts throwing up roadblocks about we need to be an LLC and have a few fairly new looking trucks before we can start when I'm watching something like "Randys Hauling" on the side of a beat up old truck going up and down the mountain and he's getting that pay. On OUR mountain and we could be easily doing this right now! He kept throwing these obstacles up on all sorts of projects. It felt like Frank was deliberately throwing wrenches wherever he could in order to halt any progress.
Eventually I tried talking with him. I told him "I'm not really feeling the return on this investment.". and Frank says "I'm sorry you feel that way.". It kind of went to shit from there. I got to the point where I didn't want anything more to do with him. I was a door mat for a long time in my childhood and it felt like I was getting played for a stooge yet again. It felt like he was also taking advantage of my Wife. But hey, she's been Friends with him for quite a while. In fact she was Friends with him before we were even dating. I'm not going to tell her she can't hang out with the guy. You'll just have to take my word that she's not the type to play around when she's in a committed relationship. Not sure if I have much faith in Frank but I have faith in my Wife.
Frank is no longer coming to the house, there are arguments between my Wife and I about the guy. All I can see is that she's getting played by the guy. Eventually, Frank has a Friend who offers him to go to a blues concert because Franks Friend has noone to go with but has an extra ticket. This is a weekend thing where you camp and party and listen to performers. My Wife is already running ragged here there and everywhere. Frank asks my Wife to keep an eye on his dogs while he's away and of course she wants to help out. She's just like that. One day, turns out my Wife is too busy to take care of it and my Daughter has to go check on the dogs. My Daughter can't find the keys to get inside Franks camper. Now don't you know I have to go up there and take on this guys responsibilities while he's out at a concert partying his ass off. I put my foot down because at this point the guy is messing with the entire Family and holding all of us up. I told my Wife that WE are done with him and shit hit the fan for a while but eventually she started to see shit for herself and we all just cut off from the guy.
This is breaking my heart. I really do love the guy and I know it's killing my Wife to cut off from a Friend. But it's a one way Friendship. Frank will jump for someone he really cares about, but us, we're just useful or so it seems to me.
3 years go by. My Wife still talks with Frank via text and I'm not thrilled with it but I'm not going to push it either. Whatever it's not holding up our show. Time goes by... I simmer down, Frank calms down. I do indeed miss the guy but I'm afraid that if I start talking it'll end up being the same crap all over again. He was good to work with when he felt like it. I work on cars all the time and this guy can look at things and see things that I don't. He's no kind of mechanic but he's already schooled me under the hood as well as setting up a guys garage door that was horribly installed.
In time, yes we do start talking again. I try to make it very clear that if we're going to do anything, we BOTH have to feel properly compensated for our efforts. Be that money, labor swapping, horse trading, whatever. If I do something for Frank and it takes an hour, Frank gets me back satisfactorily and vice versa. This has to be worth it for both of us and all of us.
Well, it happens that Frank finally decides he wants to clean up his property. His truck is not registered, insured, or inspected. His drivers license is expired. There's a lot of scrap up there. I have a road legal truck and I make a proposition. I'll pile scrap on the truck until I feel it's a decent load, he and my Wife will run the load. My wife is a capable driver. She and frank will unload the truck at the scrapyard and meanwhile I'll break the scrap down at his place and have another load ready to go. At the end of the day, the truck gets paid $1 per mile and the tank gets filled for the next day. We split the remainder 3 ways equally. We clean the property up, we all get a few dollars and after a little while he can save the money to get his own truck back on the road.
Frank says there's not enough money in scrapping. There won't be anything left to split after gassing up the truck... Sounds familiar... Ok, how about this then. Let me make a load of absolute BS scrap like old bedsprings, tin cans, and just whatever crap I can, we see how that pays and maybe go from there.
Frank says Hem and Haw, well maybe if it's just Frank and my Wife loading up the truck and they also run and unload the truck he might be in to it. Splitting it 3 ways and with the truck just isn't going to cut it. Now I'm getting confused and a little irritated because I thought the idea was to clean up, not get paid. My Wife also has a screwy elbow and if she goes hard on a job she's in pain the next day. Nope this aint happening. Let's put a pin in this and come back to it. I'm not going to push anymore and my Wife is definitely not into chucking scrap on to the truck as well as off loading it. If he wants to do something and he comes to us, we'll figure it out. If he wants to sit on that scrap, hell with it. I guess this is the Hoarder in his brain talking.
My Wife has a 1896 VW Jetta diesel. It's old and it's been around but it can be made decent. The interior is shit but we have a parts car and a pile of interior parts like carpet and trim, dashboard, and just everything you want to make the inside actually pretty good looking. She's the one that heads up the interior work. I personally hate it. At this point, Frank has no power at his place and he has a little 80cc dirtbike he'd like to use to get up and down the mountain. Private dirt road so we can drive ATV's or golf carts or whatever and it'd be handy.
I have a 300 watt solar panel that I'm not going to use and all the gear to go with it. I have some parts I can use to get his dirtbike going and I know how to get most old carburetted stuff running when it's been sitting a while. We come to an agreement. Frank will be down here working on this Jetta with my Wife until the interior is as good as we can make it. I'll give him the solar panel, help him install it at his place, and get his dirtbike going for him. Also my Wife will handle getting his power back on and a couple of other administrative things. Everyone is feeling OK with it.
We begin. My Wife and I put the first foot forward. We take the solar gear up to his place and get it working. Now at least he can charge his phone and keep a light running. Nothing major but it's something and it's damn handy. I start on the dirtbike. It's a Suzuki 80cc four stroke. The fuel tank is cracked up and leaking like a sieve. I have a tank from an old Honda CR80 and it takes me a while but I get it mounted to the bike and I didn't even have to chop the bike or the tank. The carb on this thing was sitting with fuel in it for years and it's beyond hope. Normally I can open them up and blow the jets with compressed air, maybe carb cleaner and some wires but this thing is completely jammed solid with crap and I can't get it. I have a carb on my shelf and it's actually for that exact engine. So after 6-8 hours of scratching my head and wrenching, I have his bike running just as good as ever and it holds fuel.
Now it's Franks turn. The first day, he actually shows up at a decent hour and the guy is putting his time in. They have the interior all but gutted. Seats, carpet, interior trim(what's left of it) HVAC. Just the dash is left and it's been a good 5 hours so they call it a day. Next day he's right there say 9-10AM. Dang this is working! They're going after removing the cracked up dashboard and something isn't making sense. It seems loose but it's not coming out. I'm out there putzing with my truck and my Wife asks me to come take a look. I get under the dash and I'm looking but I'm damned if I can find what's holding it up. It can wiggle but it's not coming loose. I notice some steel brackets with rivets under the dash just at the bottom of the windshield. All I can think is to cut the rivets loose and the dash will come out but it doesn't make sense because you're not going to get new rivets in when you install the new dash. There's barely room to get a chisel in to cut them loose. Frank figures it out. Frank goes out under the cowl under the hood, pulls up the drip tray and right there are two nuts on studs poking through the firewall. We pull those nuts off and presto the dash is loose! God Damn Frank you're a rock star! I'm SO glad the guy was here! Different perspective? Savant? I don't know but the guy nailed it!
Next day. Again Frank shows up about 10AM and the Jetta is coming around. The carpet is in and looking nice, the trim is installed, The seats are cleaned up and installed. This thing is actually starting to look pretty good! That was a good day. 4-5 hours and they call it. Nice job guys! Looking good!
Next day. Time to install HVAC. We did an AC delete. The Jetta was originally an AC car but most of the gear was gone. The parts car was non-AC and the heater box is much smaller, lighter, and simpler. We clean that up, do a little bit of swapping on wiring harnesses and we install it. Frank isn't here yet and it's about noon. My Wife texts him to see what's up.
Well this girl showed up about midnight last night and the way I gather they were up until the wee hours drinking and boning so he's not into working today. He doesn't know this girl from a hill of beans and about the only thing he DOES know is that she's a real easy piece of ass, I guess pretty cute, and mentally a wreck. Well... Yea I've been hard up myself so I'm trying to be understanding here. If a cute and willing young lady showed up at my place and I was lonely I think I'd take that opportunity as well. He did put some good time in on this vehicle and really saved the day when pulling the dash out. I went to work with my Wife. We got the replacement dash in, Heater installed. Everything assembled, wires routed, job done. The thing looks damn near new on the inside. It was a good 8 hours and I still feel it to day as this was just yesterday and I'm no youngster. My Wife is in pain. I just feel tired.
I can see Franks side, but a deal is a deal. I was trying to talk to my Wife that "We're kind of even right? He put in his time, he really helped out a ton. Neither owes either and we're pretty squared up right?". I wasn't really feeling that but I was willing to be convinced and sort of let it slide. My Wife however doesn't feel that we're square at all. Not only the motorcycle and the solar crap, but she spent hours on the phone and computer and Frank agreed that he'd be there from start to finish on this interior. On the last day, he ditched us because he was busy screwing and drinking with some random chick. While we were finishing up the job, Frank texted my Wife asking if He and this girl could come down to meet and greet. Or would we like to come up and have a fire? My Wife and I are dead tired, it's about 5PM. We normally have supper on the table at this time but we're close and we want to get through it. We're not into entertaining tonight. We want to finish up, get supper, get the kids to bed and crash. We're sure as hell not going up to the junk heap and sitting there at a fire watching these two make out and get tanked up. She texted him something like that. Tired, still working, still have to make supper, not happening.
That's it. If you made it through all that I admire your perseverance and I hope it at least makes sense. This is just my side of course. I have my own issues. I can be an asshole, impatient, I'm kind of obnoxious. I'm trying to work on that stuff and my Wife tells me I'm really reigning it in when I get pissed if something is fighting me. Anymore I'll just walk away and have a smoke or something. I guess I can get sort of pushy when I see shit that needs doing. I want to help but I guess I'm aggressive or too Gung Ho about it.
Anyways, it feels like this relationship with Frank is going to end up the same place as it left off before. All I can think to do is just not really seek him out anymore. If he happens to need something... I don't know... My Wife and my Children and myself are a team. We've got enough going on and we don't need someone dragging us down. I don't want this to get to the point where it did before. I feel like I screwed up even letting this guy back into my life and I'm kind of stressing.

SummerSlam 2024:
Bo Dallas vs Finn Bálor
Five years ago, at this very same event, Bray Wyatt debuted a brand new version of himself. A version known as The Fiend. A monstrous being that featured very little man in its existence, it was a demonic creature, feeding on the fear of those it crossed and becoming seemingly impervious due to it.
Five years later, the brother of the man who brought that thing into the wrestling world, faces the same man who fell victim at the feet of The Fiend. And just as Bray Wyatt did, Bo Dallas has some tricks in his sleeve, or...some rabbits in his hat.
[Finn Bálor enters first, the confident Irishman with a historic career who has made his mark as a legend in the business. From Bullet Club to training Becky Lynch & JD McDonagh to arguably the greatest NXT Champion of all time to the first ever Universal Champion to The Judgement Day. Tonight, he looks to build upon that illustrious status with a victory over the unpredictable Bo Dallas.
Bálor stands, ready to fight, when the lights dim out. Bálor is slightly puzzled, this isn't part of Bo's recent entrances.
At the top of the entrance way sits a door, an eerie glow doubled with an eerie vibration emanating from it. Suddenly, the door busts open.
White Rabbit Remix - Jefferson Airplane
Bálor watches as from the door emerges a figure. A figure seemingly humanoid in nature, but something slightly off, the fog filling the area makes it hard to discern what that is.
The fog clears and it becomes increasingly clear what's gone wrong here. The crowd gasps and then quiets.
Bo Dallas White Rabbit inspiration
Bo Dallas White Rabbit inspiration
A figure, very similar to the images above, exits the door and infringes on the sanctity of the ring as he approaches. Fur is matted along the arms, abdomen, legs. Splatters of a once viscous red liquid that has dried a crimson brown are visible all over the once pristine, white pelt.
And the face...a disgusting hybrid between a human and an inhumanely large rabbit. The ears jutting out of the face made out of that same...material. That unnatural fur. The left side of the face revealing what used to be a man. He looks...like Bo Dallas. The skin portion of the face is smothered in red, further stretching the meaning of recognizable. An almost leathery appearance coats the angry, red skin. A texture much too old for Taylor Rotunda's age of thirty three.
The teeth lay as jagged pieces of metal, unable to be contained by the maw of the creature.
The lights come up as the unholy monster enters the once sacred ring. A ring that has made this sport possible and a ring where the best matches in professional wrestling have occured, a ring that held the matches and moments that made you fall in love with wrestling in the first place.
And it's tainted, rendered unclean, by this animal. A chill runs down Finn Bálor's spine. He stands his ground, eyeing his bizarre opponent warily, unsure of what to expect from this unholy creation. Memories of a scene he's starred in before, not unlike this, flooding him.
The White Rabbit's grotesque visage contorts into a twisted semblance of a grin as he advances towards Bálor, his movements jerky and unnatural. Bálor braces himself for the impending confrontation, his senses on high alert as he prepares to defend himself against this monstrous aberration.
The bell rings, signaling the start of the match, and Bálor wastes no time in launching a flurry of strikes at The White Rabbit, hoping to catch him off guard and gain the early advantage. But The White Rabbit proves to be more agile than he appears, dodging Bálor's attacks with ease and countering with a brutal barrage of his own.
The White Rabbit toys with Bálor, taunting him with mocking gestures and sadistic laughter as he systematically dismantles his opponent with a series of harsh maneuvers. Bálor fights back with all his might, refusing to let fear or uncertainty cloud his judgment as he battles against the odds.
As the match progresses, The White Rabbit's dominance becomes increasingly evident, his unnerving presence casting a pall over the arena as he unleashes his full arsenal of twisted and unpredictable offense. Bálor struggles to keep pace, his every move countered with ruthless efficiency by his monstrous adversary.
But just when it seems that all hope is lost, Bálor summons the strength of his fighting spirit, rallying back with a defiant burst of energy that catches The White Rabbit off guard. With The White Rabbit still standing, Bálor delivers a thunderous Coup de Grâce, driving his feet into The White Rabbit's chest with bone-shattering force.
The impact ripples through the ring as The White Rabbit crumples to the canvas, his grotesque form writhing in agony. Bálor seizes the opportunity, pinning his monstrous opponent for...for a one count.
Bálor quickly climbs and attempts a second Coup De Grâce, this time to a downed opponent. The White Rabbit moves out of the way and quickly snaps the neck of Finn Bálor. The Rabbit pulls up the paralyzed form of Bálor, and sinches in Hell's Gates.
The referee calls for the bell as the lifeless form of Bálor begins to bleed from his nose and ears, the extraneous pressure from the submission evident.
The White Rabbit stares out at the audience, stares down at Bálor and exits the ring, he walks towards the door, goes through the portal and closes it behind him.
The lights come up and all that's left is the ravaged body of Finn Bálor.]
RAW, 8/12/24:
(Writers Note: Damian Priest is going to be uninvolved in this feud due to focusing on his main event aspirations and his growing distance from The Judgement Day.)
Two weeks after the emergence of one of the most disturbing figures we've ever seen grace the squared circle, Bo Dallas returns to RAW to address the events of SummerSlam.
He says that when he returned to WWE four months ago, he was a very nervous man. He was wracked with feelings of uncertainty and fear, he remembers going into a match with a specific man, Joe Gacy. He remembers being the most scared he's ever been, you have to understand, Bo wasn't like his brother. Bo didn't get 'extreme', he didn't get the opportunity to have matches like that and here he was.
Faced with a madman, challenged to a Love and War match. Joe, he taught Bo something that night, he told him "Fulfill Your Destiny." And it was at that moment, that Bo realized something. He realized what Bray had been doing all those years.
If you can take your fear, and manifest it into something physical, something truly special can be born, and better yet, it leaves you, the man behind the magic, completely fearless.
Before Dallas can continue, The Judgement Day appears, Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor & JD McDonagh surround the ring. Bálor says that Bo caught him off guard at SummerSlam, and he wants a rematch, especially seeing as how without his smoke and mirrors, Bo sure does seem fragile.
"It's true. I wouldn't be able to fight all three of you by myself, which is why I'm so glad I don't have to."
BRAUN!
The Monster Among Men makes his first appearance in almost a year, marching out on stage. The Judgement Day is already sufficiently rattled before the titantron goes a mossy green and Erick Rowan appears besides Strowman, standing with his former Wyatt Family brother.
Strowman & Rowan storm the ring causing JD & Dominik to flee and escape, but Bálor turns around into Grim Affection. Dallas stands tall, inheriting the family Bray built. What's that saying? The brother of my brother is my brother? Something like that.
Bash In Berlin 2024:
Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan vs The Judgement Day (Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor & JD McDonagh)
[Following a confident, braggadocios entrance by The Judgement Day, Dallas, Strowman and Rowan mark their arrival with a Code Orange performed remix of Feared. The music, calling back to the numerous other songs Code Orange has provided for the Rotunda family.
Dallas, flanked by the hulking figures of Strowman and Rowan makes for an intimidating visual. The Judgement Day have an experience edge though, especially with Bálor having personally trained and scouted McDonagh several years ago.
Dallas and Mysterio start the match and Bo quickly gets flustered by the speed and lucha experience of Dominik. Though Dominik has control early, Dallas gets fed up, and following a lucky strike, tags out to Braun Strowman.
Strowman dismantles Dominik, tossing him around the ring with ease. He connects with a heart-throb to the chest before hoisting Mysterio into a move we have not seen from Strowman...since he was a follower.
The hanging triangle lock is applied, Strowman squeezing around the neck of Dominik as Mysterio hangs limply. Dominik kicks out, inciting Braun to return another maneuver. The reverse chokeslam connects and Strowman places a boot on Dominik's chest, but Mysterio still manages to fight out.
Strowman brings Rowan in, who locks a bear hug forcing Dominik to scramble for escape. Despite Dominik's surviving the bear hug, his relief is short lived as Rowan cinches a vice grip around the skull. Dominik creates separation, and Rowan tries to flatten him with a spin kick, but Mysterio ducks. A dropkick to the knee and a 619 follows, giving Dominik an opportunity to tag out.
Finn Bálor is brought in and begins striking away on Rowan, littering the bigger man with bruises. A well placed pele kick wobbles Rowan and leaves him victim to a shotgun dropkick into the turnbuckles. Bálor attempts a Coup De Grâce, but Rowan avoids shoving Finn into the corner. Rowan charges in, but Bálor hops over him and Erick crashes into the steel post.
JD is tagged in and immediately hits a pump helluva kick on the cornered Rowan. Rowan is down to a knee and McDonagh comes from behind with a leap over Rowan culminating in a stunner. A kick out by Rowan inspires McDonagh to connect with a swanton bomb for a near-fall.
JD attempts for Devlinside, yet discovers Rowan is too big of a man to be trying that on. Rowan gets grip on the neck and goes for a chokeslam, McDonagh does a backflip out of it landing on his feet. JD connects with a superkick, followed by a springboard moonsault DDT.
Dallas breaks up the pin, Dominik rushes in to even the odds, Strowman neutralizes Dominik, Bálor brawling with Braun. Chaos unfolds, and eventually Dallas and co. clear the ring. Braun runs the Strowman Express on Judgement Day plowing through each member at ringside, except for JD who catches him with a penalty kick after hopping onto the apron.
JD and Rowan begin to battle again as the legal men, McDonagh knees Rowan in the face and dives with a crossbody for a two count. JD tags out to Bálor, who allows Rowan to bring in Bo Dallas.
Dallas and Bálor, now both as their mortal selves, begin to brawl. Bálor connects with a slingblade, and a shotgun dropkick driving Bo nearly through the turnbuckles. Bàlor attempts a Coup De Grâce, but Dallas avoids and attempts Grim Affection. Bálor slips out and locks the head up under the arm, connecting with a snap elbow drop across the heart.
Bálor climbs now once more, and Dallas hangs him up before sending Finn to the canvas below with a superplex. A near-fall follows, and Dallas clings to the leg of Bálor, trying to prevent a tag. Finn kicks him away and reintroduces McDonagh to the fray.
JD flusters Dallas with strikes and speed, but as he locks onto the wrist and attempts his springboard moonsault DDT, Dallas catches him in position and connects with Grim Affection. Strowman and Rowan plow through Dominik and Bálor preventing a save.
Dallas gets the victory for his team, and alongside his disciples of destruction, stands tall. The entire locker room put on notice.]
Over the next several weeks, The Judgement Day keeps their distance from Dallas's clan. Dallas fastly finds a new target, challenging The Final Testament. Dallas continuously tells Karrion Kross that he was destined for this, dating back almost a decade (in reference to Kross's stint as The White Rabbit in Lucha Underground.)
We get a very fun Authors Of Pain/Strowman & Rowan match out of it, and by the end of September, Bo has successfully convinced Karrion Kross to abandon AOP, Paul Ellering and even Scarlett, adding yet another massive man to his growing group.
October arrives and with his group nearing completion, Dallas targets a man his brother knew very well. That man being Seth Rollins. Dating back to The Shield & The Wyatt Family's iconic feud to The Fiend chasing Rollins' Universal Championship, Rollins was always one of Bray's best rivals. Not to mention, Dallas and Rollins have history from their days in FCW together, only Rollins has so significantly eclipsed Dallas in success and he's sure to rub that in Bo's face now.
You may think the numbers game is so insurmountable and overwhelming, but one puzzle piece that makes this that much more interesting is who Seth has been teaming with as of late. His protege and trainee, Nathan Frazer.
There's a segment featuring Dallas, flanked by his followers and Rollins with Frazer, but the tension is so heavy between Bo and Nathan, you would think they were the only two people in the ring. Frazer addresses his fear of Dallas, and that fear was proven valid considering the damage Dallas has done to the foes he's encountered since.
Dallas cost Nathan his best friend, he cost him his tag team titles, he cost him his brother! But Nathan has news for Bo, he is not running anymore.
Dallas steps forward, looking to acknowledge the impact he's had on Frazer.
"Nate, is it? I don't know how to tell you this, but...I don't even know who you are."
Bo is calloused and cold, and simply decides to feed Frazer and Rollins to the wolves. We get a tag match between Rollins and Frazer vs Strowman and Rowan, with commentary making note of Rollins and Braun being former tag team champions together, ending in victory for Rollins and Frazer.
Armageddon 2024:
Bo Dallas vs Seth Rollins
[The anticipation is high as Bo Dallas and Seth Rollins step into the ring, flanked by their respective allies. Rollins, accompanied by Nathan Frazer, exudes the confidence of a former champion as he eyes Dallas, who seems to stand that much taller alongside the imposing trio of Braun Strowman, Erick Rowan, and Karrion Kross.
The match begins with Dallas and Rollins locking up in the center of the ring, each vying for control. Rollins gains the early advantage with his technical prowess, countering Dallas's power-based offense with precision strikes and fast maneuvers. But Dallas refuses to back down, using his size and strength to overpower Rollins and gain the upper hand.
As the match progresses, both competitors unleash a barrage of moves, each refusing to give an inch in their quest for victory. Rollins employs his signature high-flying arsenal, soaring through the air with breathtaking dives and aerial assaults that keep Dallas on the defensive. But Dallas proves to be a resilient opponent, weathering Rollins's onslaught and mounting several counterattacks of his own.
In the final moments of the match, Rollins, alongside Frazer battle off Dallas's trio of monsters. Rollins looks for a Curb Stomp, that Dallas avoids. Dallas hooks on for Grim Affection, but Rollins latches onto the arm, trapping Bo before spinning him into a RainTrigger knee strike. A definitive Curb Stomp follows and Rollins is able to secure the victory giving Bo his first clean singles loss since returning.]
With Survivor Series fast approaching, the men Dallas has targeted come back to haunt him, as Rollins and Frazer form something of a truce with The Judgement Day, seeking to take down the common enemy in Bo Dallas.
We get some interesting interactions such as Kross trying to convince JD that he can see the darkness in him, harkening back to JD's NXT character of old, only for JD to tell Kross that he doesn't know anything about him before shattering his nose with a wicked headbutt.
With Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor, JD McDonagh, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins banding together Bo seems to be just one man short. It's the RAW prior to Survivor Series when Dallas, Strowman, Rowan and Kross stand on stage staring down the babyface quintet. The crowd waits with baited breath before Love Is Blind hits and Joe Gacy strolls on stage, making his main roster debut to side with his NXT foe.
They charge the ring and a brawl breaks out, and as security tries to keep the ten men apart, we here a distinguished William Regal shout
"WarGames!"
Survivor Series 2024:
Team Dallas (Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy & Karrion Kross) vs Team Rollins (Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor, JD McDonagh, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins) - WarGames
[It is decided that Joe Gacy and Seth Rollins will be opening this match. Both men selected by their teams for their stamina in matches like these, Gacy from his CZW days, Rollins having been WWE's premier workhorse for years.
The bell rings and they make their way on to the steel connector between the two rings. They begin wallaying on each other with forearms before Joe sneaks in a boot to the midsection, Gacy attempts a powerbomb on the steel, but Rollins reverses with a back body drop.
Seth looks for a superkick, but Gacy catches the foot and sends Rollins into the left ring. Rollins looks for a spinning forearm, but Gacy ducks and gores Rollins with a shoulder thrust. Joe sails over Rollins into the ring, and using his deceptive athleticism, looks for his handspring lariat.
Rollins catches him with a superkick and tries for a Pedigree. Gacy is able to muscle up Rollins into an Alabama Slam, he then throws Rollins into the turnbuckles forcing Seth to take a seat. A big crossbody to the seated, cornered Rollins follows and Gacy begins to reign.
Joe starts targeting the bad back sending Rollins writhing with forearms and knees to the lumbar. He eventually gets a knee on the spine with a tight grip around the mouth, controlling Seth's breathing. Rollins begins to fire up and fight out with elbows to the midsection. Rollins hits a leaping knee strike to Gacy and takes him down a peg.
Rollins attempts a Curb Stomp, but Gacy moves landing Winds Of Change as Rollins turns around. Gacy tries for a running senton, but Rollins moves this time. Curb Stomp attempt, Gacy moves, handspring lariat, Rollins ducks, superkick, Curb Stomp connects.
Rollins knows he can't make the cover so he climbs to the top to inflict more damage. Frogsplash, but Gacy gets the knees up. Joe shoves Rollins into the ropes hoping to connect with an elbow to the back, but Rollins rebounds with a spinning forearm. Gacy ducks locking on for a German Suplex, Rollins lands on his feet and closes in with a V-Trigger, Gacy rebounds off the ropes into a Falcon Arrow and the countdown begins.
Erick Rowan is the next entry, joining Joe Gacy as a focused duo. Rowan pounces on Rollins, but Seth fights back, attempting a RainTrigger but Rowan catches him by the face, in an Iron Claw like grip. Rowan looks for a slam using the claw grip, but Rollins hooks onto the head and reverses into a DDT.
Rollins begins to litter both Joe and Rowan with corner forearms, Rowan eventually catches Rollins and attempts a two handed chokeslam. Rollins dropkicks the body of Rowan mid-slam, and recuperates. He attempts a Pedigree, but Rowan reverses with a back body drop, Rollins lands on his feet and nails an enziguri to stumble the big man.
He mounts Rowan in the corner and begins landing repeated right hands, Rowan shoves him off the middle turnbuckle and closes the distance with a big boot. He positions Seth in the corner before slapping Gacy and hyping him up, ala The Bludgeon Brothers.
Gacy charges for a crossbody to the downed Rollins, but Seth springs up, sails over the running Gacy and lands a dropkick to Rowan. A leaping knee to the mouth follows and Rollins gets Rowan back in Pedigree position.
Gacy comes over with a clothesline that Rollins ducks before hitting a superkick to Gacy, Rowan tries to whip Rollins into the corner but Seth reverses and Erick smashes into Gacy. Rollins jumps to the middle turnbuckle raining down with a barrage of right hands to Rowan then Gacy.
Rowan and Gacy try to catch their bearings before turning around into a Phoenix Splash Crossbody from Rollins and the countdown begins.
Finn Bálor is the next entry, entering a couple of chairs into the field for him and Rollins. They stare each other down, remembering all the wars they've been through and begin to beat down on Rowan and Gacy. It's going well at first, with Gacy especially being incapacitated, before Rowan stops Bálor mid chair swing.
He mule kicks Rollins and rips the chair out of Finn's hands before tossing Finn into the corner. Rollins shortly after joins him. Rowan proceeds to biel toss Rollins who tucks and rolls to come out unscathed. Bálor is then biel tossed on top of Rollins before Rowan throws the aforementioned chair into the face of Bálor.
Rowan attempts to chokeslam Seth on top of the other chair, Rollins scrambles and kicks the chair over so it's legs up. Rowan proceeds with the chokeslam anyway, delivering Rollins onto the bottom of the chair. He then sets up another chair in the corner, wedging it between turnbuckles. He vaults Bálor in that direction, but Finn slides low to avoid connection, only for Gacy to bull pounce him into the chair anyway.
Rowan and Gacy survey the carnage they've caused, as Bálor tries to crawl into the other ring. Rowan joins him on the steel connector and despite Finn's valiant efforts, is able to claw slam him onto the steel beam as the countdown begins.
Bo Dallas is the next entry, and he doesn't waste time getting his hands dirty. He simply passes his objects of destruction their tools. A table, a length of chain and a toolbox. He then observes as his monsters begin to wreak havoc.
Gacy whips at Rollins with the chain, before wrapping it around his face and neck. Rowan squeezes between Bálor's fingers with pliers, applying pressure as he kneels on his back.
Gacy throws the toolbox into the face of an unsuspecting Rollins. Gacy sets up the table against the turnbuckles. He tries to whip Rollins into it, but Seth catches himself, he fights back against Rowan and Gacy but Joe gets a knee to the face before lifting Rollins on his shoulder and charging him through the table.
Rowan yanks Bálor up and delivers him with biel tosses onto the chain and toolbox as the countdown begins.
Dominik Mysterio is the next entry, and he quickly realizes the challenge he's up against. He ducks under Rowan and Gacy, tackling Bo and unloading with right hands. Rowan and Gacy drag him off and begin mercilessly beating on him.
Dallas calls them off, dragging Dominik into the right ring, telling Rowan and Gacy that he'll handle Mysterio. He looks for Grim Affection, but Dominik escapes and rolls backwards with Dallas before hitting a dropkick to the back. Bo is in position, but as Dallas runs the ropes, Rowan catches him by the throat.
Rowan chokeslams Dominik into the arms of Gacy who connects with a German Suplex. The ominous duo gaze down at the broken body of Mysterio, before feeding him to Dallas, who connects with Grim Affection as the countdown begins.
Karrion Kross is the next entry, and introduces a very special weapon. A barbed wire wrapped 2x4 as well as a suspicious grey baggie.
He begins brandishing Bálor and Rollins with the wood and wire. He rips at the flesh and rakes it across the face of Rollins. He begins toying with Bálor, and releases the 2x4 asking Finn to stand up and show him what he's got. Bálor fires up, and sweeps the legs sending Kross back first onto the barbed wire. He then stomps on the chest caving Kross further in.
He beckons Rowan and Gacy to try their best, and as they begin to swarm, the numbers game becomes too much. Rowan with a spinning heel kick, Gacy with a crossbody against the ropes. They continue to dismantle their foes as the countdown begins.
JD McDonagh is the next entry, and introduces several chairs. He cracks Gacy, Rowan and Dallas repeatedly, bruising them with the stiff chair strikes.
He gets Bo in the corner and hits a running dropkick with the chair under his feet, ala Rob Van Dam. McDonagh is rolling, but here comes Kross. Karrion and McDonagh have had something of a personal sub rivalry, and Karrion relishes punishing McDonagh. A fallaway suplex downs McDonagh and leads to Kross wielding a chair.
Swing and a miss, swing a miss, swing and connects with the foot of JD who was going for a roundhouse, swing and the chair lodges itself around the head of McDonagh, headbutt by McDonagh with the chair around the head, both men down and the countdown begins.
Braun Strowman is the next entry, the final for Team Dallas. He introduces multiple tables and sets them up in a row of three. Dominik chooses this time to reappear and swiftly gets chokeslammed through one of the tables.
Braun is able to get JD up in a hanging triangle lock with the chain wrapped around his neck, but Bálor and Rollins come to the save. Finn, Seth and JD work to take down Gacy, Rowan, Strowman and Kross.
McDonagh scaling the cage, Rowan, Dallas and Strowman starting to recover, Gacy on one table, Kross on one table, Rollins and Bálor climb, frogsplash through the table from Rollins, Coup De Grâce through the table from Bálor, moonsault from the top of the cage by McDonagh!
Everyone is down as the countdown begins.
Nathan Frazer is the next and final entry, Frazer is a one man wrecking crew as he enters, showing off his agility using both rings to his advantage. Frazer clears Kross, Gacy, Strowman, Rowan but faulters as he encounters Dallas.
Bo taunts Frazer from his knees, and as Frazer hesitates to take the kill shot, Rowan takes advantage with a claw slam to Nathan. Rollins capitalizes with a superkick to Dallas and a chair shot to the head of Rowan, once Erick's head is sufficiently trapped inside the chair, Rollins hops onto the back and hits a modified Pedigree, jamming the chair into the throat and jaw.
Gacy is seen stalking Rollins, having wrapped the barbed wire from the 2x4 around his arm, he charges in with a handspring barbed wire wrapped lariat to Rollins. Bálor closes in with a shotgun dropkick into the corner before fetching the grey baggie. He opens it, emptying out thumbtacks onto the canvas.
Bo comes over, striking with Bálor. Finn gets the upper hand and climbs for a standing Coup De Grâce, similar to how he tried to put The White Rabbit away at SummerSlam. He misses, going feet first into the tacks, Dallas grabs hold of the head and connects with Grim Affection on the tacks.
Three seconds later, and Team Dallas has survived WarGames. Bo collects up his soldiers, standing above the battered bodies of his opposition. One question remains clear, who can stop Bo Dallas?]
With Team Dallas pulling out a massive victory inside arguably the most grueling match type in WWE history, they look forward to moving on from the men they dismantled at Survivor Series.
One man, though, refuses to let them. That man is Nathan Frazer. Still haunted by the price he paid, the friend he lost, the halt in momentum, due to Bo's arrival in NXT.
A couple of weeks following WarGames, Frazer comes out to call out Bo Dallas, Seth Rollins tries to talk Frazer down and calm him, but Nathan is insistent. He failed to take Bo down, he failed to make things right, he needs to beat Bo Dallas.
Strowman, Rowan, Kross and Gacy emerge. Gacy states that Bo isn't here tonight, but they would be more than happy to show Frazer exactly what he's in for if he wants to keep...chasing rabbits.
The monsters storm the ring and surround Rollins and Frazer in a very hound like way. Just before they pounce, a theme song hits, the lights go up and wouldn't you know it, motherfucking Axiom arrives.
Frazer & Rollins take advantage of the distraction and Axiom lends his hand, leading to the monsters retreating. Rollins guards the ring as Axiom and Nathan Frazer stare each other down.
'Hug It Out' chants run through the arena, and Axiom & Frazer embrace, putting the past behind them.
Over the next two weeks, we get two very interesting matches. The first, a street fight between Bo Dallas and Nathan Frazer, in which Frazer finally gets an opportunity at singles revenge on Bo in a brutal, chaotic brawl. Dallas wins this match with help from his possee.
The second, Karrion Kross vs Seth Rollins, a good showcase for Kross as he steps up against a main eventer and one of the best in the world. Rollins wins in a good match, but it's what happens after that draws attention.
Rollins is seated in the corner when the lights go out, section by section, plunging Rollins into darkness and for the first time, Seth Rollins meets The White Rabbit.
The Rabbit crawls towards Rollins who closes his eyes in fear, creating parallels to a similar scene five years ago. Rollins, though, this time, stands up and stares down The Rabbit.
Seth grabs a microphone and stares down this fiendish entity. "Crown Jewel, me and my boys vs you and yours."
The Rabbit cocks his head to the side and the lights go out once more, when they come up, a hat remains in the ring. A hat very similar to Uncle Howdys', Rollins lifts it and a rabbit jumps out. At the bottom of the hat is a note, written on light blue, Firefly Funhouse themed paper.
"WE ACCEPT."
Crown Jewel 2024:
Axiom, Nathan Frazer & Seth Rollins vs Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan
[Five years after Bray Wyatt defeated Seth Rollins at this same event to become Universal Champion, Rollins faces off against his spiritual successor and younger brother, Bo Dallas. Frazer and Axiom share a quick nod of understanding, their strategy clear: use their speed and agility to outmaneuver their larger opponents. On the other side of the ring, Dallas, Strowman, and Rowan stand tall, their imposing presence a stark contrast to the quickness of their adversaries.
The match begins with Axiom and Dallas squaring off for the first time since NXT when Dallas took Axiom's title. The two competitors circle each other cautiously before locking up in a test of strength. Axiom utilizes his lightning-fast strikes and acrobatic prowess to keep Dallas off balance, darting in and out of range with precision. Shortly after, Nathan and Rowan engage in a battle of power versus speed, with Frazer using his agility to evade Rowan's powerful strikes while delivering rapid-fire kicks and strikes of his own.
As the match progresses, Rollins enters the fray, unleashing a flurry of high-flying maneuvers on his ex-partner, Strowman. Braun struggles to keep pace with his nimble opponent as Rollins utilizes his speed to his advantage, ducking and weaving around Strowman's attempts at offense before delivering an enzuigiri that sends the big man staggering backwards.
Rollins lands a knee to the nose and a step-stool Curb Stomp off the back of Frazer shortly after, but Rowan saves the match. Axiom and Nathan join forces, working in tandem to take Rowan out and wear him down with a series of double-team maneuvers. Rollins exits the ring and, acting in the role of Reigns, assists in hitting a Shield Bomb through the announce table on Rowan.
Despite the valiant efforts of Dallas, Strowman, and Rowan, the tide of the match begins to turn in favor of Rollins and his team. Axiom unleashes a devastating flurry of strikes on Dallas once Strowman and Seth tag out, culminating in a rattling roundhouse kick that leaves the former champion reeling. Meanwhile, Nathan Frazer climbs to the top turnbuckle and launches himself into the air, executing a picture-perfect shooting star press that connects squarely with Bo Dallas, leaving him sprawled out on the canvas.
With Dallas incapacitated, Nathan seizes the opportunity to go for the pin, hooking the leg as the referee counts the three. The crowd erupts into cheers as Rollins, Axiom, and Nathan Frazer celebrate their hard-fought victory, Frazer finally getting his revenge on the man who permanently altered his career.]
January arrives and the Dallas clan set their sights on the Royal Rumble, more specifically, helping Bo to win the Royal Rumble. To fulfill his destiny at WrestleMania.
When the Rumble arrives, they're doing a great job of tearing through everyone in the match. Rowan and Gacy aren't even entries, but continuously skirt around the rules, helping Bo, Kross and Strowman rack up eliminations.
They eliminate the likes of Finn Bálor, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn before they encounter the one man wrecking crew that is Randy Orton. Orton swiftly eliminates Kross and Strowman before turning his attention to Dallas. Bo is able to force him into position for Grim Affection, but Orton escapes landing an RKO and eliminating Bo Dallas.
When the Rumble has concluded, Bo has a hard time accepting this loss, and sics his men on Orton. Orton gets a victory over a game Karrion Kross leading to the onslaught by Strowman, Rowan and Gacy. However, this draws the call of the disgruntled men Bo's crew eliminated at the Rumble.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn.
Kevin and Randy already have a friendly history, and Zayn, coming off an Intercontinental Title loss to Ilja Dragunov in August, partners up with his long time tag partner to fight the cause.
Bo acknowledges the history his brother had with Randy Orton, including Orton burning down his childhood home, The Wyatt Compound.
Finally, at Elimination Chamber, much like The Shield and The Wyatt Family over a decade prior, we get a six man tag.
Elimination Chamber 2025:
Bo Dallas, Braun Strowman & Erick Rowan vs Kevin Owens, Randy Orton & Sami Zayn
[It's very poetic, Bo has been very much hitting all of Bray's best moments in modern day versions. The demonic alter-ego debuting at SummerSlam against Finn Bálor, facing off with Seth Rollins at Crown Jewel and now a six man tag at Elimination Chamber.
Dallas lets his opponents know ahead of this match that he has some tricks up his sleeves, but that a truly good magician never reveals his secrets.
There's plenty of fun interactions, Strowman & Zayn having been Braun's first feud away from The Wyatt Family, Strowman & Owens and the terrorizing Kevin went through in 2018, Rowan & Orton facing off for the first time since Orton went after The Wyatt Family in 2017, Bo & Sami reigniting their NXT feud from 2014.
The match ends when Braun sets Owens, Zayn and Orton up in separate corners. He biel tosses Orton, biel tosses Sami and goes for Owens, but Kevin fights back hitting a Stunner on the big man. Bo comes in and eats a Pop-Up Powerbomb for a near-fall.
Kevin gets Dallas in the corner for a Kevin Cannonball and connects, once, twice, Kevin looking for a third cannonball from the corner. Zayn stops Owens and tells Kevin to let Sami end this. Bo staggers up and Sami looks for a Helluva Kick from the corner to the right of the one Owens is stood in.
HELLUVA KICK! TO OWENS!
Kevin falls into Zayn's arms and Sami pushes him to the ground before walking off, leaving Owens defenseless.
Bo crawls over looking for Grim Affection, Kevin escapes, superkick connects. Both men fall and Owens makes the hot tag to Orton. Orton clears out Rowan, Gacy, Kross and Strowman with RKOs before setting up Dallas for the punt. No one to help the wounded rabbit, The Viper closes in.
Orton's momentum is halted though by a hand grabbing his foot at ringside, the person is in a hood and just as Orton shakes free of his grip, he turns around into Grim Affection for the win.
Bo Dallas has pinned Randy Orton. His family in ruins all around the ring, Bo celebrates his victory, and is proven to be a very truthful man. He really did have quite a few tricks up his sleeve tonight.]
It is advertised that on RAW the following night, we will find out the man who cost Randy Orton at Elimination Chamber.
When the time comes, Bo, flanked by his men, states that long ago his brother put into motion a plan. A plan that would unite six people together, the six most optimal people to incite change into this company. They were handpicked by Bray since the beginning.
Braun Strowman, Bray's black sheep, the man he personally discovered and brought into the WWE to be part of his family.
Erick Rowan, Bray's left hand and the man who carried out Bray's commands for years, one of his most loyal soldiers.
Joe Gacy, a man who felt an indescribable spiritual connection to Bray Wyatt, Bray told Bo that he didn't know who the final member was, but that the man meant to fill the role would, that they would feel an intrinsic, undeniable pull.
Karrion Kross, a man with goals very similar to Bray, and a man who was being mentored by Bray backstage prior to his passing, his golden child.
And now that just leaves one person. Someone who knew Bray very well, someone Bray found much success with in this very ring. So without further ado, the final member of The Wyatt Si-
Randy Orton enters, he denounces this ceremony and is out for blood tonight. Bo states that it's actually perfectly convenient that Orton be here for this, seeing as Randy also knows this person very well.
"In fact, Randy, you're the reason this person wasn't here for five years. The past is a funny thing Randy, the axe forgets, the tree...oh, the tree always remembers."
Realization sets in on the face of Orton before the hooded figure blasts Randy as he turns around. The hood comes off, and there stands, the final member of The Wyatt Six.
Matt Hardy.
Randy Orton is able to get his revenge on Matt Hardy in Matt's last WWE match ever, a street fight on an episode of RAW. It's a grueling, physical battle, but Orton knows the numbers game is too large for him to seek revenge on Bo Dallas.
Besides, Dallas has his hands full.
Just as quickly as The Wyatt 6 began, some subtraction begins to occur. One week, Rowan will be with them backstage only to not come to the ring and go missing, Kross and Strowman face similar fates, leaving only Dallas, Gacy and Hardy.
Dallas begins to question where his family members have gone, and Gacy vows to protect him. That is moments before Dallas and Gacy head to the ring, and Matt Hardy is no longer with them.
Backstage footage airs of something destroying Matt Hardy, beating him violently, and as the being turns its head, it is made clear.
The Demon is here.
Heartbeats fill the arena and Gacy exits the ring to guard the perimeter. Red lights dawn on the squared circle, before The Demon attacks Gacy at ringside making quick work of him.
The Demon crawls into the ring before Dallas grabs a mic, kneeling down to The Demon's level.
"I know what you want, there's only one place for souls like ours to do this. Hell In A Cell."
On the go home show for WrestleMania, Finn Bálor and Bo Dallas have a face to face, Finn says that The Demon never got to meet The Fiend but it will get to meet The Rabbit.
"In layman's terms, Bo. You bring your demons, I'll bring mine."

Chapter 23 - Into Space
Previous Chapter
The trip up to the ship didn’t feel like 90 minutes. Even though it was longer than the trip to the Pem Temple, Trix' first time leaving the atmosphere and watching her planet shrink in the viewport was such an unimaginable experience that she would have thought less than 10 minutes had elapsed. But the clocks on the quickboards don’t lie, and nearly forty minutes had passed in what felt like four. Soon enough after the shuttle reoriented she found herself gazing where Ji told her they were heading.
At first there was nothing more than a pinprick of light, just as small and bright as the others that burned in her vision. And wasn’t that such an odd sensation for her, to see the stars so clearly without any flicker at all? Yet this star grew brighter as they approached, and before long she could actually see it begin to take shape.
The ship was much longer than she had expected. She’d seen images in her classes and on the vid channels of her own species’ ships, which tended to be very wide with wings stretched out on either side. Of course a species that lacked wings would design things differently! Their ship resembled, if anything, an odd looking triangle from afar.
As they approached she could make out much greater detail. The ship was, to use one of Ji’s words, sleek. The front was narrow but it bulged out behind what she thought must be the bridge. It expanded both horizontally and vertically, with spires and struts jutting out at regular intervals between hexagonal plates. Everything looked the same bronze color that was on the Uniforms that the crew had been wearing during their first day on the planet, and it gleamed brightly in the void of space.
“Various EM, Radio, and Gravitonic sensors.” Ji pointed out each array as they’d come into view. “Not aerodynamic and ugly as sin but with no atmosphere to drag on they don't interfere with handling and there's good reason to have them on multiple points of the ship. They can retract behind those big hex plates, we call ‘em ablatives, if we get attacked or there’s a risk of accidental damage.”
Behind the sensors the bulk of the ship was a long stretch that took up fully two thirds of its volume. According to Ji, this was the living space and ‘amenities’. One large darker colored block on the side of the ship indicated the Hangar bay, where the shuttle was now being piloted. Beyond that, the rear of the ship expanded up and down in large bulbous cylinders for the main engines.
The shuttle approached the bay and the huge door silently slid up and out, exposing the interior of the ship. Unlike the bronze exterior the inside was made of a more silver grey metal that shone faintly. Even though it wasn’t as reflective as the exterior, it seemed to glow brighter all the same as the shuttle approached.
Unlike the previous landing back on the planet, when the shuttle touched down the grav plates fully absorbed the impact, leaving Trix entirely uncertain whether they’d landed or if the shuttle was just floating in the bay. The huge door swung back down slowly, sealing off the bay from the endless emptiness of space beyond, and the hissing of atmosphere repressurising around them was all she could hear for several seconds.
At last, the shuttle’s rear hatch opened and Trix cautiously stepped out into the ship itself. The gravity of the shuttle and the ship was tailored to humans - only a few percentage points less than on the planet below. She’d been warned about this, and now as she stood in the large bay she wondered whether the sudden rush to her head was due to the gravity, something in the air, or maybe even something else.
For a fraction of a second she caught her breath as she realized that she was breathing in alien air, but then her mind caught up and she realized she’d been breathing it for some time now. There was some odd sweetness to the air here, something she couldn’t place. But it wasn’t unpleasant - in fact somehow she felt better now than before. Maybe it was just knowing where she was and the fact that nobody else on the planet had been invited up here before her. Either way, she ruffled her wings experimentally, then stretched them wide as she felt the warmth of the ship’s air as it circled through the bay.
“Okay, calm down now. We’ve got lots we gotta get to.” Josh laughed at the display of the Avian woman with her arms and wings spread wide. “Not that I don’t get how you feel. First few times on a new planet or a station is exhilarating. But unfortunately we’re on the clock here."
“Stuff it, J. We have time for her to enjoy herself a bit. Or are all those diagnostics ready to go the second she walks in?” Ji lightly punched Josh’s shoulder. “I’m gonna take her down to the pool deck since we have the armor open so she can get a good look around while you do your thing.”
“Fine, fine. It’ll take a bit to get her added into the med database, and since we’re here and all I might as well get a baseline EKG while we’re at it. Go have a bit of fun. I’m calling the moment the tests are ready though.” Josh waved as he left the bay, leaving Trix with Ji and Ma’et.
“This way to the pool deck, Feathers.” Ma’et took the lead immediately. “I’ll chaperone while we’re up here. Got nothing else to do until you two need a taxi back.”
“Oi, this ain’t like the captain’s little tryst at all!” Ji complained as they walked down the hallway. “I’m just trying to be nice to her since this is her first time in space, is all.”
“Sure, right. You say that now and a week from now you’ll be sneaking off to the woods together to have impromptu dance parties.”
“Fuck off.” Ji grumbled at that, then grinned at Trix. “Actually, I think you’ll like this bit. Back on the station when we first met your people, the Security Chief was Sovalin. The captain was totally infatuated. S’why we’re here, I’d bet. He got the hots for the her and invited her out dancing. I’ll show you the video later, it’s goddamn hilarious.”
Trix had no idea what he was talking about but that was nothing new. While working on the Aircar she noticed he tended to just talk. A lot. Whether or not people were listening. His sister said he just loved to hear the sound of his voice, but Trix didn’t mind. These humans had really amazing voices, even when they weren’t singing.
The main living part of the ship wasn’t quite as big as it had looked from the outside, and it didn’t take them long to reach the pool deck. It was one of the rooms towards the front of the ship, and the pool within it wasn’t exactly small. Wouldn’t qualify as Olympic sized, but still reasonably large.
“I gotta agree with the Captain on this one. He got rid of a lot of the useless clutter and amenities but I’m glad he kept this one.” Ji walked over to a panel on the wall near the door, and slapped it. As Trix watched, a large section of the hexagonal plating lifted free from the outer hull of the ship, swinging back on some unseen articulated joints, to expose a huge window that covered the front and both side walls. The view was phenomenal, and she could see her homeworld bright and huge before her.
“It’s amazing how big it is even when we’re so far out.” She remarked, and Ji cocked his head at that. “You know, it’s kind of odd. Humans have troubles dealing with scales. We’re so used to working with things in front of us - within a few meters - or traveling short distances in our daily lives. A lot of people don’t realize that even at ten thousand kilometers the planet’s still so close to be that huge. I guess that’s another similarity we share with you guys?”
Trix nodded, looking out. “I think you’re right. I don’t think in terms of thousands and tens of thousands when I think of how far away things are. It almost looks close enough to reach out and touch from here… but it’s so much further than that.” She pressed her face up against the window, staring out. “I’ve seen it so many times on screens but never like this…”
Ma’et kicked off her shoes and sat down on the edge of the pool, dipping her feet and calves into the warm water. “I guess when I saw your people on the station I assumed that coming out here and seeing views like this was the norm for you all. I didn’t really think this was a big rare thing.” She shrugged and gestured out there. “To me this view is pretty and all but not really unusual. I see it all the time when we fly around. I guess I understand a bit more what the Captain’s trying to do here.”
Ji nodded, and leaned back against the wall, watching Trix as she stared down on her world from above. “We’ve been an extrasolar society for all my life, and yours. I can’t even imagine being stuck planetside forever.”
The trio sat in silence for a few minutes, as Trix stared down at the globe before her. Suddenly she stabbed her finger against the reinforced glass. “There! I can see the valley! That’s where the Presh are. Where my Teff is. And the captain and the others, I guess.”
Ji walked over next to her and peered out. “Kinda hard for me to make it out from here. Too many clouds in the way.”
“Really? I can see it over there. See that big swirl? Look down and to the left. There’s the valley rim, the big mountains east of my home. You can tell it’s them because only the ones in the very middle are high enough to have snow cover.”
Ji squinted down at the planet, then shook his head. “Nah, not close enough for me to make much out. If you want, we could go up to the Bridge and pull up the…”
“Sorry to interrupt the fun, guys.” Josh’s voice rang out from the overhead. “But Ji, you should be in the fabber bay prepping the gear for the shuttle. Ma’et, would you be so kind as to lead our guest to Medical?”
Ji grumbled something obscene under his breath, and punched the door access. “Fine then. Ladies, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to go do grunt work for the next two hours. Trix, when you’re done with the scans have Josh call for me. I could use your help loading up the shuttle.”
“What about me?” Ma’et stood up, shaking water from her legs as she did. “I got nothin to do until you’re leaving. I can help out if you need.”
“Fine. I’ll give you some of the light stuff to caOWFUCK!” Ji was interrupted by a sudden kick to the shin. “Okay, okay, you can help out too!”
Ma’et snorted. “Just be glad I took my boots off to soak. C’mon feathers. Let’s go check in on the big dork while the little one mucks around with the fabber.”
—--
Trix stepped through the door into the Medical suite, and waved to Josh. He didn’t even bother waving back, his attention focused on the screens in front of him.
“Good, you’re here. If you would just go ahead and disrobe, we can begin.”
“Yeah, I… wait. EXCUSE ME?”
Josh waved it off. “C’mon, this is Medical. There’s nothing there I haven’t seen bef…” He suddenly straightened up and coughed. “Oh. Shit. Sorry. I was running entirely on autopilot there for a second.”
“Uh huh. Care to explain what you meant by that?” Trix folded her arms in front of her chest as she stared at the larger man.
“I’m sorry.” Josh shook his head, and walked over to one of the walls. “It was truly force of habit. Here on the ship I’m more or less the doctor, even though I only have medic training. As a result, I’ve seen all there is to see of the crew. So most of the time they don’t bother with a privacy drape.” He opened a drawer and began to rummage through it. “It’s a consequence of being stuck on a ship for up to a year or more away from the rest of human society. Sooner or later everyone is so comfortable around one another that modesty stops being an issue.”
He moved to another drawer, this time pulling out a thin white gown. “Uh, it ties in the back, and the wings will probably get in the way, so… if you want I can call Ma’et in here to help you?”
Trix took the garment (If you could even call it that; it seemed little more than a sheet with two holes for her arms and a couple of ties on the back) and shook her head. “No, I can manage. Leave the room while I change.”
Josh left, and after a few minutes he heard a knock on the door. When he returned, Trix had simply wrapped the gown around her waist and tied it in the back. He was on the verge of making a comment about going topless in front of him, until he recalled that for her species the chest wasn’t an immodest area.
“Alright. Go ahead and lay down on that table. Normally we do this face up but with the wings, we’re going to improvise.”
—--
The complete battery of tests that were ran took close to three hours to complete. First there were the scans. Scans that were designed for Humans, that didn’t have wings. Wings that didn’t fit easily into the rounded structure that performed one of the tests, and so they’d had to improvise it. Luckily not every scan needed her to fit inside of a very tight tube, but others involved placing small sensors all over her body. Even with the drape she still felt like there was a blow to her modesty as Josh slid the sensors under her feathers along her chest and arms.
She’d nearly lost all modesty again when trying to RUN with the sensors in place, and only a frantic grab at the drape as it fell kept her from exposing everything to the Medic. He’d chuckled at that and earned a glare (And, she noted mentally, a kick to the shins like Ma’et had given Ji. But later). Finally he’d taken a blood sample from her, and that was the most unpleasant experience of them all simply for how surreal it had been.
Josh placed a small cuff over her arm, which automatically wriggled and adjusted in an EXTREMELY uncomfortable and off putting way. Once it had finished, it tightened up around her arm and several small ampules on the outside immediately began to fill with blood. It was, as Josh promised earlier, painless. Yet somehow that made it even more creepy. Being injured enough to bleed that much should have felt like… something! But she didn’t even notice it. Even after the cuff was removed, all she saw was a single tiny pinprick of blood, and after it was wiped away - nothing.
Through it all Josh said very little, a comment here or there about how the tests differed when done on humans who lacked feathers. By the end though she was thoroughly sick and tired of being told to place her arm here, her leg there, to lie down here, to shift her wings like this or like that. When he finally stepped out to let her change back into her clothes she’d found herself distinctly less enraptured with the Humans and this trip in general.
“Samples are in the fridge, minus the vial that’s going through the analyzer now. All the rest of the data is on the logs and the system’ll be doing analysis on it for the next few days at least. Time to head back to the hangar bay.” Josh pressed a hand against the console he was working on, and the entire unit slid into the wall. “How you feeling?”
“Fine.” It was the truth, at least physically. “How much longer until we’re back on the planet?”
“Once the shuttle’s loaded back up, we can leave right away. Unless there’s anything you want to see while you’re up here?” Josh opened the door and began to lead her towards the shuttle bay.
“Maybe. I dunno. I’ll talk to Ji first.”
A couple minute later, the duo walked in to the Hangar. The shuttle had already been loaded, and Trix noticed that next to the extremely large pile of boxed up gear, they’d put a large bench in the middle of the Shuttle itself, just as Alex had said they would several days before. Being able to sit back without pressure on her wing joints would make the trip a lot more pleasant.
“Sup, Trix. Got a surprise for ya.” Ji waved to the two as they entered.
“Hey, Ji. Got everything loaded up already?” Josh glanced inside the shuttle. “Thought it’d take you a lot longer than that.”
“Yeah, well, I cheated. Taped it all together and looped a few grav collars around. Banged a couple walls but the boxes are meant to take a little impact and we weren’t going super fast.”
“S’fine. Your ass on the line if anything’s busted when we land though.”
Trix was peering at the huge stack of boxes, and reached out to shove against it. They weren’t light. “You moved all these at once?”
“Yup!” Ji pointed to the wall of the hangar bay, at some odd looking belts. Each one had a large circular pad with two lengths of fabric jutting out of it. “Grav collars. They generate a small anti-gravity field that lets us reduce the weight of bigger objects for transport. One of those would let you lift your aircar with a single finger. A half dozen and you could carry around this shuttle on your shoulder. Not that I’d recommend it, even without weight it has tons of mass and would cause some damage in here.”
Trix stared over at them, and tried to envision picking up the shuttle. She failed. “Are we going to take one down to work on the car?”
“Nah. They’re power hogs so we use them sparingly. But speaking of your car…” Ji was sitting against a large oddly shaped piece of equipment, covered with a thick tarp. He stood up and patted the tarp. “Told you I had a surprise.”
Trix came over to look, and lifted the edge to peek under. Ji lightly slapped at her hand. “Uh-uh. No peeking. If you’re gonna look, do it right. Grab it and pull it all off.”
Trix gave him a brief glare, then grabbed a handful of the thick and heavy fabric an yanked hard. It slid off easily, exposing a huge bright green plastic form. “Wait… is this…?”
The entire surface was covered in bright green trees and leaves. The front had a bright spot that had to be a sun, with rays of light beaming through the gaps in the branches. “I remembered when we were removing those absurd fins that you didn’t like the big gaps they left in your aircar’s body. And I remembered you told me that you loved seeing the morning light through those trees near your hab. So I fabbed a new body to look a bit nicer. What do you think of it?”
Trix let her hands glide over the smooth plastic, staring down at the image. “It’s amazing.” That was all that came to her mind, and Ji grinned. “Glad to hear it. Honestly, not what I WANTED to do… I was hoping to get a full programmable liquid paint job done but we’re kind of low on some of the materials we’d need for programmable pigmentation. If we had more time and resources, I’d make it so every time you took it out you could make it look different. But…” Ji shrugged. “We can always add on to it later.”
“It looks absolutely amazing.” She lifted a leg and sat down where the seat would go. For now it was just as smooth and slick as the rest of the body, but they’d move the grip-textured padded seat over once they landed. “I don’t know why the bunters always use that ugly gold color for their frames. This looks so much more vibrant.”
“Glad you’re happy with it, feathers. Now scooch off so we can load it up. We’re done up here once that’s in.” Ma’et poked Trix in the side. “We gotta get it in the shuttle and I ain’t carrying you on it.”
—--
After landing, the next few days went by all too fast. Trix spent the next few days removing the old body of the aircar and installing the new one, aided by Min and Ji whenever they weren’t off installing various components for the Matriarchs elsewhere on the planet. The work was extremely delicate but with the two engineers helping her out, it was completed much faster than she’d have been able to alone. Of course, if she was alone she would have taken it out stock, and gazing down at the finished product she thanked the stars yet again that the Humans had arrived.
Before the aircar was a large, wide vehicle with four independent thrusters spread out in a square pattern around it that would propel it up in the air, before a powerful turbine would kick in and thrust it forward. A series of fins and flaps angled out in every direction would keep the aircar stable and moving forward with incredible precision. In its way, it was actually more capable of incredibly tight turns and precise movements before.
But now, after the modifications it was incomparable. The body was now slimmer, the thrusters were now paired front and back. The thrusters had been boosted and angled, so that they’d not only keep the car aloft but also give it a fair amount of velocity, even before the turbine added its own thrust. While the lack of control surfaces meant it couldn’t turn as tightly as before, the large tail rudder and flaps added to the rear of the machine still gave it impressive amounts of agility. In all, it sacrificed a moderate amount of control for an incredible amount of speed.
A Soranet Ten was already a racing machine designed to leave its competitors behind. While other models such as the six or eight boasted incredible control used for all kinds of aerial tricks and displays, the Ten was a racing machine designed for pure speed. And after the modifications made with the Humans’ help, the Aircar she’d rebuild almost from the ground up made the original Ten she’d ordered look downright sluggish in comparison.
Actually learning how to control the car was an experience in and of itself. She’d never owned a Ten and so its reasonable speed was already exhilarating for her, and a challenge to control. Now, though, she had to learn an entirely new vehicle that nobody else on the planet had ever flown. Even the Humans had to admit that while they redesigned it for speed, they had never actually flown a car quite like hers before.
She’d gone on practice runs throughout the Presh valley, at slower speeds and altitudes, as she adjusted to the new vehicle. Slower was, of course, relative - those who saw her practicing had no idea the actual raw power her car could produce and the speeds which it was capable of. No one except the two engineers and Trix herself was fully aware of how drastically these minor changes made, and they were determined to keep it that way.
The next firelands challenge was still a week away, and she’d spent most of that week practicing. Sometimes with one of the engineers present, sometimes with both. They’d watch and film her practice runs with Par, and then they’d rewatch and go over them to identify ways to improve her flights. Each time she felt like she’d learned some tiny little trick or another, some small way to improve her control on the car. The biggest trick, she’d learned on her own, when narrowly avoiding crashing into a tree after over correcting a turn. That one she kept to herself, never mentioning it to anyone else.
“Not looking too shabby out there.” The various comings and goings of the Humans had reached a lull, and today they’d all gathered around to watch her practice on her aircar. Alex was watching with interest as she’d completed an incredibly tight hairpin turn around a large tree trunk (Well above it, for safety, but using it as a course guide), then rocketed off into the sky. “She looks like she’s going, what… hundred-fifty kilometers per hour?”
“Closer to 90 on a tight turn like that, but on a straightaway she’s been averaging closer to 200. The car itself can handle quite a bit more than that. We actually probably overdid it with the adjustments, since I think it’d top out at closer to 300.” Min was watching her quickboard, making notes as she reviewed the latest practice run. “Before we started any adjustments the car would have topped out right around 180 to 190 kmph. We were trying to double the speed and got fairly close. Whether or not that’s a good thing remains to be seen though.”
Alex watched as Trix entered different part of her practice course, this time dodging and weaving around Habitats. She was at a reasonable altitude so that missing a turn wouldn’t result in her being slammed into the side of a building. “Still I have to admit I’m impressed with those turns. Those are some tight turns at a pretty significant speed. She’s got to be catching some pretty big G’s.”
Ji glanced over at Min. “She’s got quite a bit higher tolerance for major G-forces than we do. At least for short periods. That turn there was close to 13 gees and she didn’t lose control for a second. Min’s been actually trying to chase down info on what they can actually handle in terms of forces, but near as we can tell they never did any big centrifuge tests like the ones back in the early space age back on Sol.”
The whine of the turbines suddenly grew louder as Trix flew directly overhead, then pulled up to climb at at almost a 90 degree angle before banking around in a wide circle. Alex thought he could hear her laughing, but the distance was great enough he could easily have been mistaken. “She’s definitely in her element up there. And I don’t just mean with the feathers and wings. I don’t even know if I’d be comfortable being up there on a ride that isn’t enclosed. Riding a cyberbike around is one thing, but that…” he pointed up. “That takes cojones.”
“You know, in a matriarchal society like this that might almost be considered an insult.” Josh watched as she went into a steep dive through a simulated canyon, then slowed suddenly at the ‘bottom’. “But I don’t think I’d want to be up there either. A shuttle or fighter’s one thing. But strapped on top of a glorified drone is too much for me, thank you.”
“So tell me again how the race works.” Alex asked Ji. “You said there’s projectiles?”
“Yup. They fly along a course at a specific altitude. The goal is to reach the end of the course as fast as possible. What makes it tricky is that there’s custom turrets set up along the course to track and shoot at the racers. The shots aren’t damaging, they’ll deform the body and they’re covered with a paint that’ll leave a mark where they hit to ensure there’s no doubt when one does hit. The usual way to proceed is to dodge around while flying, but of course the more you dodge the longer it takes to get to the end.”
“And what happens if one of those shots hit a racer directly? What happens if someone falls off their aircar during the race?”
“The shots are soft enough they won’t actually penetrate through the suit the racers wear. They can still break a bone easy enough but unless you’re fantastically unlucky there’s little chance of an actual fatality from the shots. As for falling off, the straps are pretty secure but it’s not impossible. The races have a spotter who flies at ground level behind the cars so if something does happen, the spotter’s there to catch the racer.”
“This is sounding a lot more organized than I initially thought. In my mind I guess I saw it more like impromptu street racing or something. Cyber bikes going out into the desert and flying around the flats to impress each other.”
“Nah, cap. It’s still pretty informal since nobody really needs to register to race or anything. You just show up when everyone else does and you convince the Nof to let you run the course. Sometimes that convincing requires a little palm grease if you get my meaning, but I’d bet that her car’s special enough they’ll let her run it without extra incentive. Especially when we come along as her cheering section.”
“No bet. But I do have one question. If they’ve got spotters to catch the racers in case of an emergency, but her car’s so much faster than any others… will the spotters actually be able to keep up with her on the ground?”
Ji and Min exchanged a glance. “Uh. Huh. That’s a really good question. I think I’d better actually make a quick phone call or two.”
Alex grimaced at that. “Yeah, Ji, I think you’d better.”
—--
“THIS is informal?”” Josh stared around at the view they’d arrived at. The “firelands” were an active volcanic plain, but there was very little actual fire or magma visible. Black rocks and darkened soil from past eruptions and magma flows dominated the landscape, but here and there trees, shrubs, and various plant life had managed to take hold in the otherwise barren area. It wasn’t even truly that warm, compared to many other locations on the planet - it was downright cool and pleasant.
What was truly unexpected was the stadium-style seating at the starting point of the race, and the large video displays intended to show those who were assembled to watch the racers attempt the course a live feed of everything happening. The course was long and winding, and without the screens the participants would have been out of view for the majority of it. Still, seeing more or less permanent infrastructure set up for the races made it feel significantly more official than the Humans had expected.
The presence of an extremely large shaded ‘VIP’ seating area also contributed to making it feel like an official event and not just some informal group of racers.
“I wish you had informed us you were planning to attend,” Boralanof, the Matriarch of the Nof had been as surprised as anyone when the Human shuttle had touched down nearby. She’d heard the rumors, as had most people, that the Humans had taken an interest in aircars during their stay with the Presh. But seeing them attend a challenge with their guide outfitted to be a participant wasn’t something anyone had deigned to inform her about.
“Well, truth be told we wanted to keep it a secret. Actually, at least four people knew we were going to be attending, but we swore them to secrecy because we wanted it to be a surprise.” Alex sat opposite the Matriarch, a local drink in hand. Josh had brought a number of drinks from various different locales for the group to try out. “Humans have a long history of performing dangerous and extreme stunts for fame and glory, so once we heard about this course it piqued the interest of my crew.”
“Four people knew?” Borala raised an eyebrow at that, and glanced over at the event’s organizer. She was fighting to keep a smile off of her face, and failing quite badly. “I won’t say I’m happy to hear about that, but if it wasn’t done out of malice I won’t press the issue.” The look on her face said otherwise.
“Well, our Racer is going to be flying something a bit unique really. And we wanted to take some precautions and make sure everything will be safe.” Alex shrugged and took another sip of the odd beverage. It was quite good, a slightly fermented but sweetened drink.
Borala beckoned to the organizer, who pulled out a sheet of paper and handed it over. The Presh challenger - ‘Trksehn’ on the list - was the eighth challenger of the day, out of nine total. “It looks like it may be some time before she is up. I take it that was on purpose?”
“Well, yeah. Her aircar’s unique. She’s been modifying it with our engineers.”
Borala sat up straighter immediately upon hearing this. “So the car… is of human make?”
“Nope. She bought a,” Alex glanced over at Ji, who yelled back “Soranet Ten!”
“She bought a Soranet Ten, and our engineers thought it could be improved. They worked together on it practically from the time we set down on the planet.”
Borala hid a sense of disappointment at that. She’d hoped it would be something entirely new, an insight into how the Humans approached transportation and transit technology. To hear it was just a modified standard unit was a bit of a disappointment. “So why put off her display until the end of the day?”
“Two reasons, really. First, we humans have a saying - ‘Save the best for last’. It’s a fun way to build up anticipation for something that’s going to be special. Second, if all goes as planned it might be a bit discouraging for anyone who goes after her. We don’t want to ruin anyone’s fun in participating but we won’t really be able to hang around to modify a ton of cars afterwards if this goes well.”
“And if it doesn’t go well?” Borala reached over to rub at one of her wings, at an irritating itch between her feathers.
“We try not to tempt bad luck by talking too much about that. But one way or another it’s going to be an interesting show.” Alex grinned and lifted his cup for another sip.
“Whatcha think of that drink, Al?” Josh had a sly grin on his face as he watched the captain drinking his beverage. For some reason, though, he’d asked in English instead of the local language.
“It’s interesting. Kinda like a cream liqueur but not very strong. Sweet though. What’s it made of?” Alex responded in English as well as he glanced down at the slightly off-white liquid in the cup.
“It’s a fermented milk product. Kinda like Kumis back on earth.” Alex narrowed his eyes at his XO. “Okay. And what’s that shit eating grin on your face all about? And why turn off the translator?”
“C’mon, Al. Think about it. Are there any cows out here on Kiveyt?”
Alex glanced back down at the cup. “No. So they have some other domesticated critter for milk?”
“Nope. They don’t.” Now Ma’et had started snickering and Ji was just staring at the cup. Min had her hand over her mouth as she stifled her laughter.
“Well then… oh. They... oh.” Alex set the cup down on the table. “Okay. Gonna get you for that one later.”
“Is there a problem?” Borala looked at the Humans who were obviously laughing at the Captain and his sudden unease.
Alex immediately switched back to translating his words. “Nope. No problem. Just one of my Crew volunteering to clean out the septic systems when we get back up to the ship.” He gestured out to the stadium and the large viewscreens. “So when do they start?”
“The first challenger will be entering the course within the next fifteen minutes.” The challenge organizer chimed in, as she flipped back to the first page on her clipboard. “The first challenger is from the M’rit Teff. By tradition the first to challenge is the one who got the furthest during the last event and she made it halfway through the third flame.”
“Third flame?” Josh wandered over to stand near Alex. “We’re pretty new, can you explain a bit more?”
“Each section of the challenge is demarcated by a flame. As a challenger passes each flame the projectile speeds increase, and they’re fired more frequently from the turrets. There are four sections, four flames in total.” Borala explained to the Captain as she pointed at a large indicator of the course map above the screens.
“How often do people make it through all four sections?” Josh asked.
“It’s not common, but it does happen once every few years. We leave the shot patterns the same until someone completes all four sections, then we change it after a successful run. The best challengers can watch and learn the patterns and timings to make it through.”
The first challenger was preparing on the ground in front of the stadium seating. She wore a tightly fitting jacket and her wings were each covered with what looked like a leather sheath. Her aircar was incredibly similar to the one that Trix had before Ji and Min had gotten involved in modding it, and as they watched she mounted it and attached several straps to the frame. She put on a helmet in the end, and they all watched as the thrusters spun up and smoothly lifted the car into the air.
Each of the Humans watched as the challenger soared up to some predefined point, before hovering there in anticipation. Borala lifted a hand as a signal, and on the other side of the area, near the large screen, a Sovalin hefted up a massive hammer. They swung it against a large bell, ringing out once. Twice. Three times. On the fourth strike, the turbine kicked in and the challenger shot forward.
Almost immediately, a video drone took off after the challenger to keep the image of them on the screen. The turrets on the ground began to track, and the first shots rang out as they fired the ‘obstacles’ at the challenger. The first flame was rather slow, and the Aircar barely had to do more than strafe a bit left or right to dodge the projectiles. Long silver streaks burst into the air, before falling back down in graceful arcs as the rider soared along.
The stadium was full of cheers and waving as the car soared past the first flame on the track marker, designated by a large pit full of fire. Now on the 2nd stretch the turrets on this section were definitely more capable. The shots that were fired off in a steady rhythm came much closer to hitting the car, often missing by less than a couple of feet. In lieu of the rapid pace the challenger had to throw the aircar into tight twists and turns, dipping down and rising up as they rode.
“No wonder they had all those control surfaces. It almost looks like trying to ride one of those mechanical bulls they have in a dive bar.” Alex commented as they watched. “Still, her speed went way down. Par, what do you clock her at?”
“Judging by the visual data, her speed is rapidly changing. At the slowest she’s close to 40 kilometers per hour, but at the fastest she’s closer to 90. With the twists and turns I would put her average at 60 kilometers per hour.”
They watched as the car crept forward slower, finally passing the second flame to reach the third flame area.
The car dipped and dodged wildly as the turrets took aim, at one point even going into a spiral that made Alex wonder if she’d lost control. She was still making progress but even slower now, and by the time she’d reached the halfway point they could see that the turrets had her number. Three fired at once, and while she managed to dodge two of the projectiles the third flattened itself against the front right thruster. Immediately the turrets firing stopped, and as the soft bullet fell away from the aircar they could see a bright silver smear marring the surface where it had landed.
“Same as the last time.” Borala noted. “That triple volley has been brutal to the latest batch of challengers.”
The audience was still wildly cheering, and the rider soon flew back, raising a fist triumphantly before touching down in the large clearing in front of the crowd.
The next few challengers didn’t fare nearly as well. One tried for pure speed and attempted to just power past all of the shots with only a few simple strafing motions to attempt to dodge. It worked well in the first flame, but they were tagged right before crossing the second. They completed their section of the course much faster, though they didn’t get nearly as far.
“So what matters the most here. Speed or distance?”
“When two challengers fail in the same flame, they are judged based on how many obstacles they dodged and how far they proceeded. Only the attempts that reach the furthest flame are valid, so if no other challengers reach the third Flame then the previous victor will be walking away victorious yet again.” Borala clarified. She reached out to a cup of her own and took a large drink. “Perhaps the trial this time has been made too difficult. In the past three events none have yet reached the fourth flame.”
Ji said nothing as he left the shaded viewing area, heading down to the clearing where the challengers were assembled. Trix had yet to bring her car out, opting to keep it a surprise for as long as possible, but as each challenger before her completed their run hers was coming up quickly.
“Did I say anything to offend him?” Borala had noticed his absence.
“Nah. He’s just going down to help his friend get ready.” Min replied in his stead. As usual she had her quickboard out, but on it she was monitoring a live diagnostic feed from Trix’ modified car. She’d installed unobtrusive sensors all around the frame so if anything was going to go wrong, she’d know long before anyone else. Even the driver.
“Alright. But why hasn’t she joined the other competitors down there yet?”
“Well, like we said - we modified her car quite extensively. So much so that we’re worried that if she brings it out before her turn, it might distract people from the other runs. We don’t want any ill will, so we decided to hold off until it was her turn to actually bring it out.”
“That’s rather kind of you, but surely you must realize that makes me all the more curious about it?”
“Well, yeah.” Alex grinned. “But the anticipation is part of the fun!”
—--

Directional Blocking. It's dogshit, end of story. There's a pretty good and decent reason why like 99% of melee fighting games don't have first person direction blocking. There's a pretty good and decent reason why the popular melee fighting games that exist today don't go fucking hogwild and make their directional blocking extraordinarily stupendously strict.
NOBODY likes aiming their shield upwards, and still having the fucking axe pelt their head. NOBODY likes trying to block a wendigo or berserker because you basically fucking can't.
Why the fuck am i taking damage from the skeletons stab when i can hear the sword hitting my god damn shield?
Why is the skeleton able to bypass my shield entirely if i'm even just an inch above them?
Either reduce the strictness or remove it entirely, the game will be better for it.
Randomized damage/enemy healthpools isn't fun. Throwing in random enemies with increased values does nothing but annoy the fuck out of a player when they swing 3 times expecting the fucking kobold to be dead, but then surprise, it's fucking not, and now you're down 15-20% of your health because you can't block in time when it doesn't die.
Why the fuck are some bats dying in two hits, and then others take a good 4-5?
On that note, which fucking moron decided to make the 'elite' snow skeletons look exactly the same as the normal ones? Why are the red skeletons and red kobolds basically the only elite enemies that are actually discernible from the rest?
There are a shit load of issues with this game, but these are the two main issues that leave a sour taste in my mouth and make me want to quit after playing 2-3 rounds.
PVP games survive based on the clarity they provide to the player. Setting your game up in a way that seems intended to simply fuck over the players randomly is not fun, and adding insane difficulty spikes for a taste of realism isn't fun when your game doesn't have the budget to support it.
Parrying, blocking, dodging, are all fun mechanics in games like mordhau, chivalry, mount and blade, for honor, because these games all have the budget to not make it feel like dogshit. You can see where the strikes are actually coming from, you can feel where they're going to land, and most importantly, getting hit feels like a mistake on your part, not on the games for being cheap as fuck.
Until these issues are resolved, i cannot recommend this game to anyone.

Aiden Korr - Character Sheet
General Information:

• Name: Aiden Korr • Age: 45 years old • Occupation: Former mercenary, newly chosen by The Dark God • Allegiance: Initially a lone operative, now aligned with the forces of The Dark God 

Physical Description:

• Height: 6’2” • Build: Athletic and rugged, with a physique honed by years of combat and survival in harsh environments • Hair: Dark, starting to show strands of grey, often kept short or slightly unkempt • Eyes: Intense, with a newfound gleam reflective of his recent blessing; capable of seeing beyond the mortal realm • Distinguishing Features: Scars crisscrossing his body, each a testament to past battles; a piercing gaze that seems to look through one’s very soul 

Attributes:

• Strength: Exceptionally strong, further enhanced by dark blessings • Agility: Highly agile, capable of dodging bullets and engaging in advanced combat maneuvers • Endurance: Remarkable stamina and resilience, able to sustain injuries that would incapacitate others • Intelligence: Cunning and resourceful, with a knack for strategy and adaptation • Willpower: Iron-willed, unyielding in the face of adversity 

Skills:

• Combat Proficiency: Expert in hand-to-hand combat, proficient with various weapons, including the Dark Knife and other enchanted armaments • Tactical Acumen: Skilled in tactics and strategy, both in assassination and battlefield scenarios • Survival: Highly skilled in survival techniques, able to endure hostile environments and situations • Stealth: Master of stealth and infiltration, able to move unseen and unheard • Dark Powers: Newly imbued abilities from The Dark God, specifics of powers are evolving and include enhanced perception across dimensions 

Equipment:

• Dark Knife: A weapon capable of cutting through almost anything, never dulls nor tarnishes • Armor: Previously utilized advanced cybernetic enhancements, now stripped and potentially replaced with dark artifacts or blessings enhancing defense and utility • Miscellaneous Gear: Various tools and devices accumulated over years as a mercenary, now likely infused or replaced with items of dark origin 

Background:

• Aiden’s past is shrouded in mystery and darkness, with a history of engagements across the galaxy that honed his skills as a formidable mercenary. • After a life-changing encounter and being newly blessed by The Dark God, Aiden stands at a crossroads between his past and a future filled with unknown potential and power. • His alignment with The Dark God and interaction with the Dark Lords suggests a pivotal role in upcoming cosmic events. 

Personality:

• Stoic and reserved, Aiden speaks more through actions than words. • Battle-hardened, yet possesses a sense of morality that guides his actions. • Adaptable, with a readiness to embrace his new destiny under the guidance of The Dark God. 

Current Status:Unknown.
Character Sheet: Slumber
Name: Slumber (Given name unknown) North continent Rank #2 Born: 1993 Current Year: 2223Age: 230 (Achieved through advanced cybernetic enhancements and life-extension technologies)
Background:Slumber was born into a world on the brink of technological revolution. Showing exceptional intelligence and physical aptitude from a young age, he was taken by a covert government agency and transformed into a cyborg operative. Over the centuries, he became a legend in the shadowy realms of espionage and military operations, known for his unparalleled skills and cybernetic enhancements.
Physical Description:Slumber’s appearance is a blend of human and machine. His body is heavily augmented with cybernetic enhancements, giving him superhuman strength, speed, and resilience. His skin is partially synthetic, capable of rapid healing. His eyes have been replaced with advanced optical implants, glowing slightly when activated. He is mostly synthetic muscle and metal, with a muscular build and a presence that commands attention.
Personality:Slumber is a complex character, shaped by centuries of conflict and survival. He is stoic, often appearing detached or cold, but this masks a deep sense of loyalty and protection towards those he cares about. His long life has made him wise and reflective, often contemplating the nature of humanity and the impact of technology on society.
Abilities:

• Superhuman Physical Capabilities: Enhanced strength, speed, durability, and reflexes. • Advanced Cybernetic Enhancements: Including neural implants for heightened sensory perception, rapid cognitive processing, and direct interface with computer systems. • Tactical Genius: Decades of experience in various forms of combat and strategy, making him an unparalleled soldier and tactician. • Stealth and Espionage Expert: Skilled in infiltration, surveillance, and information warfare. • Regenerative Healing: His synthetic skin and underlying repair systems allow for rapid recovery from injuries. 

Weaknesses:

• Cybernetic Dependence: Relies on regular maintenance and upgrades to keep his systems running optimally, vulnerable to EMP attacks and hacking. • Isolation: His extended lifespan and nature of his work have led to a sense of isolation from the rest of humanity. • Protectiveness: His family is his Achilles’ heel; threats to them can drive him to take extreme risks. 

Allies:

• The General: A high-ranking military official who respects Slumber’s capabilities and shares a professional bond with him. • Various Contacts: Over the years, Slumber has built a network of allies and contacts across different sectors, including the underground, military, and intelligence communities. 

Enemies:A wide array of adversaries ranging from rival cyborgs, criminal syndicates, and rogue governments to ancient spell casters and entities threatened by his existence.
Equipment:

• Customized Weapons: Including A wrist mounted .50 cal that can interface with his cybernetic systems for enhanced targeting. A heavy minigun shooting armor piercing rounds. • Combat Gear: Armor that provides great protection against most firearms the only current caliber that does any real damage is .55 cal • Utility Tools: A variety of gadgets and tools for hacking, surveillance, and emergency medical treatment. 

Goals:

• Protect his family and those under his care from the myriad dangers of his world. • Navigate the complex web of alliances and enmities that define the shadowy underbelly of global politics. • Find a balance between his cybernetic enhancements and retaining his humanity. 

Notable Achievements:

• Survived centuries of conflict and evolution to become the third deadliest man in the country. • Completed countless high-risk missions with a focus on precision, strategy, and minimal collateral damage. • Maintained a network of allies and resources, showcasing his ability to navigate the complexities of a world transformed by technology and conflict. 

Quote:“In a world governed by shadow and steel, humanity is both my shield and my sword.”
Character Sheet: Treth
Name: Treth (Surname unknown) North continent Rank #3. Born: 2138Current Year: 2223Age: 85 (Appears in his late 30s to early 40s due to unspecified means)
Background:Treth’s early life was marred by a traumatic upbringing under an abusive father, a period that, while deeply scarring, paradoxically forged him into the formidable figure he is today. The harsh conditions of his youth served not only to harden him physically but also to instill in him a resilience and determination that few can match. Rumors abound regarding the source of his extraordinary abilities, with some attributing his strength and speed to a mysterious darkness that he harnessed in the face of his suffering.
Physical Description:Treth is a study in contrasts, with a small and thin frame that hides an almost superhuman strength and agility. His movements are deceptively smooth, suggesting a level of training and bodily control that few can achieve. His eyes, often the only window into his enigmatic past, carry an intensity that belies his calm demeanor.He has long unkempt black hair. his skin is white as snow with small scars all across his body.
Personality:Treth is a man shaped by adversity, possessing a steely resolve and a focused mind. He speaks rarely, but when he does, his words carry weight. His traumatic past has instilled in him a strong sense of self-reliance and a deep, if not immediately apparent, empathy for those suffering under the yoke of tyranny or abuse. Despite his capabilities, he maintains a strict ethical code, choosing his contracts with care and often intervening in situations where he perceives an imbalance of power.
Abilities:

• Superhuman Speed and Agility: Capable of dodging bullets and executing feats of agility that seem to defy physics, Treth’s movements in combat are nearly unparalleled. • Exceptional Strength: His strength, enough to lift significant weight effortlessly, seems incongruent with his lean physique, hinting at the depths of his physical conditioning. • Master Combatant: With expertise in various forms of hand-to-hand combat and weaponry, Treth can neutralize multiple adversaries with efficiency and precision. • Stealth and Infiltration: His ability to blend into his surroundings and approach targets undetected makes him a ghost-like figure in the world of espionage. • Tactical Acumen: Treth’s experiences have honed his strategic thinking, allowing him to outmaneuver foes who underestimate him due to his unassuming appearance. 

Weaknesses:

• Psychological Scars: The trauma of his upbringing, while a source of his resilience, also haunts him, affecting his relationships and interactions. • Isolation: His solitary nature, a product of his past and profession, often leaves him detached from others, potentially missing opportunities for alliances or support. • Moral Code: Unlike many in his line of work, Treth operates according to a personal code of ethics, which, while noble, sometimes puts him at odds with the pragmatic demands of his missions. 

Allies:

• Selective Connections: Over the years, Treth has formed a network of contacts who respect his skills and share his disdain for injustice, though he remains cautious in his associations. 

Enemies:

• A Spectrum of Adversaries: From former targets to corrupt officials who fear his interference, Treth’s enemies are as diverse as the missions he undertakes. His past actions against those who wield power unjustly have made him a target in various circles. 

Notable Achievements:

• Dismantling of the Red Syndicate: A solo operation that resulted in the collapse of a major criminal organization. • The Night of the Hundred Shadows: Outsmarting and overcoming a group of enhanced assassins in a desolate megacity. • Cybernetic Tempest: Successfully thwarting a cyber-revolt without relying on technology, demonstrating the superiority of human skill and intuition. 

Goals:

• Balance and Justice: Treth seeks to use his abilities to correct injustices where he can, aiming to strike a balance in a world often skewed in favor of the powerful. • Understanding the Darkness: A personal quest to understand the nature of the darkness that some believe is the source of his strength, and to ensure it is used for righteous purposes. 

Name: Jasien Heth. North continent, Rank #1. Age: Mid-30s (Actual age: 134 years) Height: 6’5” Physique: Broad-shouldered, imposing Skin Tone: Olive Eyes: Deep, revealing a lifetime of arcane secrets and unwavering resolve Hair: Dark, often worn long and sometimes tied back for practicality Title: Grandmaster of the Arcanum, The Silent Guardian, The Deadliest Man in America Affiliation: The Arcanum.
Abilities and Skills:

• Unrivaled Arcane Mastery: Jasien’s command over magic is absolute, allowing him to wield destructive spells, manipulate the elements, and alter reality with a thought, no gestures or incantations needed. His magic can neutralize threats silently and without warning, making him a specter to his foes. • Biological Immortality: A potion of eternal youth grants him ceaseless vitality and resilience, enabling him to engage in battles that would wear down any mortal man. • Master Tactician: His extensive experience makes him a strategic genius in both magical and physical combat, capable of outmaneuvering enemies in any scenario. • Dimensional Manipulation: He can open rifts, banish beings to other dimensions, or call upon dimensional energies to obliterate his adversaries. • Telepathic Shields: His mind is fortified against intrusion and manipulation, an essential defense in a world where psychic attacks are as lethal as physical ones. • Expert Alchemist: Creator of potions and artifacts with deadly capabilities, including elixirs that can weaken or incapacitate powerful enemies. 

Weaknesses:

• Burden of Guardianship: His dedication to protecting the balance often places him in peril, making him a prime target for those who wish to see the world plunged into chaos. • Isolation of Immortality: His eternal life distances him from others, sometimes making him an enigma even among those he protects. 

Equipment:

• Cloak of Shadows: A magical cloak that renders him invisible and untouchable, perfect for stealth attacks or escapes. • Ring of Dominion: Controls magical forces within a certain radius, amplifying his power and suppressing enemy magic. • The Libram of Forbidden Arts: Contains spells and rituals no other dare use, a testament to his mastery and willingness to harness darkness for the greater good. 

Personality:Jasien is a figure of solemn duty and deep conviction. His longevity grants him a perspective that prioritizes the greater good above all, often at personal cost. While he may appear detached or ruthless, his actions are driven by a profound commitment to safeguarding humanity and the natural order.
Background:Rising from the obscurity of a world that had forgotten magic, Jasien’s discovery of his innate arcane talent set him on a collision course with destiny. Through decades of study, exploration, and confrontation, he mastered the arcane arts to an extent unseen in modern times. His creation of the Arcanum was not just to preserve magical knowledge but to serve as a command center from which he could watch over and intervene in the world’s affairs, wielding his power to eliminate threats from the shadows.
Goals:Above all, Jasien seeks to maintain the equilibrium between the seen and unseen worlds, ensuring that humanity remains blissfully unaware of the dangers that lurk just beyond their perception. His ultimate aim is to create a world where magic and mankind can coexist peacefully, with the Arcanum serving as the guardian of this balance. To those who threaten this vision, he is the unseen blade in the dark, the deadliest man in America, ready to strike down chaos and restore order with a whisper of arcane power.
Character Sheet: Blue
Name: Unknown (Uses the alias “Blue”)
Age: Presumed to be in his late 40s to early 50s
Nationality: Unknown
Occupation: Criminal Mastermind, Global Syndicate Leader, Influential Business Tycoon
Net Worth: $7 trillion, incorporating a vast array of legitimate business ventures, criminal operations, advanced military assets, and speculative investments across the globe and beyond.
Physical Appearance:

• Height: 6’1” • Build: Athletic, maintains peak physical condition through disciplined training • Hair: Dark, kept short and meticulously styled • Eyes: Deep blue, striking and intense, the source of his alias • Distinguishing Features: Bears a scar on the left side of his neck, usually concealed; known for his impeccable taste in tailored suits that are both elegant and functional 

Personality Traits:

• Intellect: Genius-level, with an exceptional talent for strategic thinking, manipulation, and foresight • Disposition: Calm and composed, exuding an aura of control and authority; possesses a stoic demeanor with rare flashes of intensity • Morality: Operates under a strict personal code that emphasizes loyalty, honor, and the protection of those under his command; ruthless in the pursuit of his objectives • Social Skills: Highly charismatic, capable of commanding loyalty and instilling fear; adept at negotiation and influence 

Abilities and Skills:

• Strategic Mastermind: Renowned for his ability to orchestrate complex plans spanning multiple continents and industries • Combat Proficiency: Trained in multiple forms of hand-to-hand combat and proficient in the use of various weapons • Technological Savvy: Has a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies, especially in security, surveillance, and warfare • Financial Acumen: Demonstrates unparalleled insight into global financial systems, enabling him to amass, hide, and manipulate his vast wealth • Linguistic Fluency: Fluent in most key languages, aiding his global operations 

Assets:

• Military Might: Commands a private army of 140,000, complemented by 60,000 special operations soldiers, 50,000 military vehicles, 10,000 tanks, 45,000 planes, 32,000 helicopters, 2,000 submarines and 1,507 battleships. • Business Empire: Holds significant interests in technology, space exploration, agriculture, renewable energy, and financial services • Real Estate: Owns the largest and most secure private property in the world and several dozen across the world, a testament to his wealth and need for security • Notable Investments: Pioneering space exploration efforts and investing in asteroid mining, securing a pivotal role in humanity’s expansion beyond Earth 

Background: Shrouded in mystery, Blue’s origins are a closely guarded secret. He emerged on the global scene over two decades ago, quickly establishing himself as a dominant force in both the underworld and legitimate business spheres.
Current Status: Despite being one of the most wanted individuals globally, Blue operates from an undisclosed, highly fortified location. His influence permeates every level of global affairs, from the criminal underworld to the highest echelons of power.
Motivations:

• To maintain and expand his empire’s dominance • To ensure his and his organization’s survival and anonymity • Driven by a personal vendetta and broader ambitions that influence his strategic decisions 

Weaknesses:

• Personal losses, particularly the death of his child, have exposed emotional vulnerabilities • The vastness of his empire and its reliance on his leadership could present strategic weaknesses 

Allies and Enemies:

• Commands unwavering loyalty from his network of operatives and associates • Faces opposition from global law enforcement, rival criminal organizations, and political entities threatened by his rise to power 

Character Sheet: Nishiro Asukage
Name: Nishiro Asukage Born Year 56 Age: Varies (Provide specific age based on the timeline of your story) Nationality: Japanese Occupation: Leader of Japan, Founder and Master of Cosmic Sword Style
Physical Appearance: - Height: 6'2" - Build: Athletic, muscular - Hair: Long, black, usually cut short - Eyes: Intense, piercing white - Distinguishing Features: A scar across his left cheek, a mark from a past battle
Personality Traits: - Intelligent and Strategic: Known for his deep strategic thinking and ability to foresee enemy moves. - Stoic and Determined: Rarely shows emotion, always focused on his goals. - Honorable: Strong sense of justice and duty, adheres to a code of honor in all his dealings.
Abilities: - Cosmic Sword Style: Master of a unique sword style that includes advanced techniques such as "Atom Split" and "Flaming Viper." - Enhanced Healing: Capable of regenerating lost limbs and repairing vital organs due to divine enhancements. - Superhuman Speed and Strength: Can move at speeds exceeding Mach 116 and possesses immense strength capable of lifting/pushing with ease 200 tons. - Heightened Senses: Can detect any hostile presence within a 500-foot radius, making him nearly impossible to surprise or ambush. Can hear a spider crawling from 1000 feet away through a concrete wall. He can see clearly on a foggy day for 10 miles like he’s standing right in front of it. Has a reaction time in the nanoseconds.
Equipment: - Cosmic Sword: A specially crafted sword that is the conduit for his sword style techniques. - Armor: Traditional Japanese armor that has been reinforced with modern materials to withstand even the harshest impacts.
Background: Nishiro Asukage rose to prominence after the death of his father, taking over as the leader of Japan at a young age. He quickly established himself as a formidable warrior and tactician. After establishing the Cosmic Sword Style, Nishiro worked to enhance his skills and knowledge continuously, pushing the boundaries of traditional martial arts with his innovative techniques. His leadership is marked by a combination of strength, wisdom, and a deep sense of duty towards his country and people.
Goals: - Enhance Cosmic Sword Style: Continuously develop and refine his sword techniques to maintain his edge in combat. - Protect Japan: Ensure the safety and prosperity of his nation against all threats, both internal and external. - Seek Knowledge: Constantly pursue greater knowledge and understanding, both for personal growth and for the benefit of his realm.
Notable Feats: - Developed "Atom Split," a technique capable of causing atomic explosions. - Created "Flaming Viper," which harnesses atomic energy for a devastating sword attack. - Survived multiple assassination attempts and emerged victorious in numerous battles against formidable foes.
Certainly! Here’s a refined and detailed character sheet for Emperor Andreus Ivorstead, incorporating all the insights from our discussion:
Name: Andreus Ivorstead
Title: Emperor of Ivorstead, The Thundering Monarch, Protector of the Realm
Age: 48
Height: 7 feet
Build: Muscular, imposing
Physical Appearance: - Hair: Dark, often styled in a warrior's knot, symbolizing his readiness for battle. - Eyes: Steel blue, piercing and commanding, reflecting his strategic mind and war-hardened resolve. - Skin: Tanned and weathered from years of leading battles and overseeing the kingdom. - Attire: Wears enchanted silver armor in battle, designed in the style of ancient Viking warriors, showcasing his royal heritage. In court, he dons luxurious silks and cloaks adorned with the royal crest and jewels that signify his status.
Personality Traits: - Commanding and Charismatic: Naturally leads with authority and charm, inspiring loyalty and courage among his followers. - Stoic and Resolute: Maintains composure in crisis, rarely showing emotions that might undermine his regal bearing. - Fiercely Protective: Deeply committed to the safety and prosperity of his people, especially his family.
Background: Born into the ruling lineage of Ivorstead, Andreus was groomed for leadership, trained in the arts of war, diplomacy, and governance from a young age. He ascended to the throne after the peaceful demise of his father and has since expanded the empire’s borders while ensuring its internal stability and prosperity. His reign has been marked by challenges, including supernatural threats, which he has met with unwavering bravery and strategic brilliance.
Skills: - Master Swordsman: Unmatched in his skill with his twin great swords, which are legendary within and beyond his empire. - Strategic Genius: Known for his sharp tactical mind, capable of outmaneuvering enemies in both battlefield and political arenas. - Charismatic Leadership: Commands respect and loyalty through a combination of fear and admiration, ensuring strict adherence to his decrees.
Weapons: - Twin Great Swords: Each blade is a masterpiece of celestial metal, each blade weighing 1,500 pounds, and enchanted to enhance their lethality against Hardened entities. - Royal Armor: Custom-fitted and enchanted silver armor that provides superior protection and aids in the channeling of his elemental powers during combat.
Abilities: - Superhuman Strength and Speed: Capable of extraordinary feats of strength lifting 100 tons with ease, and able to move at blistering speeds, Mach 85 was his fastest speed. - Elemental Magic: Exhibits control over storms and lightning, a mystical trait that enhances his battlefield presence and deters his enemies.
Weaknesses: - Overprotective Nature: His deep affection for his daughter and his people sometimes clouds his judgment, potentially leading to decisions that put him at personal risk. - Burden of Leadership: The heavy responsibilities of kingship weigh on him, challenging his resolve and demanding much of his personal time and energy.
Goals: - Secure the Empire’s Future: Aims to strengthen Ivorstead’s borders, fortify its defenses, and ensure its prosperity through strategic expansions and alliances. - Legacy of Peace and Strength: Strives to leave a legacy that cements Ivorstead as a powerhouse and a beacon of stability in an often tumultuous world. - Prepare His Successor: Dedicated to grooming his daughter to assume the throne, ensuring she is ready to lead with wisdom and strength.
Relationships: - Daughter: His pride and joy, being meticulously groomed as his successor; their bond is strong, characterized by deep mutual respect and love. - Generals and Advisors: Maintains a circle of trusted advisors and military commanders whose counsel he values, though final decisions rest with him. - Citizens: Revered by his people for his just rule and the prosperity he has brought to the kingdom, which fosters a deep, mutual loyalty.
Emperor Andreus Ivorstead stands as a monumental figure, both a feared warrior and a revered leader, whose legacy is defined by his strategic prowess, his commitment to his people, and his unwavering resolve in the face of both terrestrial and supernatural challenges.

These posts are all over 100 days old. 72 posts total.
SOLVED SO FAR: 21
Newcomers please note: the older the post, the more points you earn!
✅SOLVED Can Tho, Vietnam. PS Nightview of an Asian city with a river circling around. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/hgYobfPlEa
✅SOLVED Madyan, Pakistan I originally thought that this was Turkey, however after seeing the hint I quickly found out that it was Pakistan. I then ruled out the southern half of the country because of the snow capped mountains in the distance and noted the water stream down below, which meant that there was a river that went through the city, after that it only took a bit of searching until I eventually found it. Colorful view of dry mountains from a hilltop, with a river valley and city below. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/n6Wrtm51hy
✅SOLVED San Pedro, Ivory Coast. PS Aerial view of a peninsula with a beach, heavily vegetated, either tropical or subtropical. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/S3mmcAtb29
PS Small red brick house alone in a grass field near the ocean. Southern Hemisphere. Not Argentina. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/3umH5hwgYj
PS View of a city from a tiled public area on a hill. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/nwueFRQkpv
GTC View of a city from the water. Not Hanoi nor Ho Chi Minh City. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18zk7r3/gtc/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_content=2&utm_term=1
PS Titled "Find this now cold photosphere". Shows a river or lake with an unusual bridge made entirely of young tree trunks. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/ZtlANmp3wk
✅SOLVED Pajares, Spain. SV In northern Spain, in the Cantabrian Mountains. Picture shows some very old houses with tile roofs and mountains behind. 🧩Province of Asturias. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/E6jKfgia61
✅SOLVED Greece Rocky scrub/forest mixture on high hill overlooking sprawling city and distant shoreline. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/h88FumMXpL
🟪 ONE MCDONALDS PER EVERY U.S. STATE 🟪
Address needed. McDonald's #2 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/IpFcjWfjkN
Address needed. McDonald's #22 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/UwCodcouo2
🟪 ILES DE FRANCE SERIES 🟪
SV #1 Narrow road beside a few houses; lots of trees. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/aAb4nqlebt
SV #4 A performance area, outdoors. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/DyS5QnflUn
🟪 DISPUTED TERRITORY SERIES 🟪
👉See Wikipedia's List of Territorial Disputes https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_territorial_disputes
SV #1 Parking lot with white apartments beyond. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18n28cl/disputed_territory_1_find_the_streetview/
SV #2 Residential area with mountains in the distance. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18n2ax9/disputed_territory_2_find_the_streetview/
PS #4 Cemetery with a few houses beyond. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18n2x4s/disputed_territory_4_find_the_photosphere/
✅SOLVED Kuril Islands. PS #5 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/ncJDT0kCNn This is a landscape only russia would love. Landscape is barren, somewhere very far east. Looked around Kuril Islands (disputed with Japan) and found it in a few minutes.
SV #6 Highway bridge over wide shallow river. Not Kashmir. ⁠https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18n3vll/disputed_territory_6_find_the_streetview/
✅SOLVED Kosovo PS #8 Several medium size buildings, one of brick, in a semi-urban place. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18nqle3/disputed_territory_8_find_the_photosphere/
SV #19 Residential street. ⁠https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/comments/18oty5u/disputed_territory_19_find_the_streetview/
✅SOLVED Psirtskhva Cape, Abkhazia PS #24 Train tracks near residential area, with low mountains and the sea in the distance. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/adyDjueCAB HOW IT WAS SOLVED: Looking through the list of ongoing disputes, I wondered if Abkhazia might be one of this series. I found that there is a railway line along the coast of Abkhazia so I looked for PSs there. The first couple I looked at featured the same types of pylon supporting the overhead power cables, so I knew I was on the right track (hur hur) Followed the line from west to east until I found this spot.
✅SOLVED Uman-Dong, South Korea. SV #25 https://maps.app.goo.gl/DMKqcgsJthea2Y9W8 I originally thought it was Taiwan because of the black and yellow striped poles on the highway sign, however I later confirmed it was South Korea because of the Korean text on the red bus, from there I started to check different highways around the country to see if any of them matched the concrete divider with the blue stripe. I eventually found the correct highway after a bit of searching, went east on the highway with no luck, went west and bingo!
PS #26 Some masonry buildings, steps, terraces. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/TYP8qTMXQL
🟪 TWO CITIES WITH SAME NAME SERIES 🟪
SVs(2) Two cities with same name, unnumbered. Not Birmingham. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/tcSEB3gWQK
✅SOLVED SVs (2) two cities with the same name #8 Guadalajara Mexico Spain language is spoken in both cities; one is in Europe, and the other somewhere in either North, Central, or South America. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/tluVsbPZ7r
SVs (2) Two cities with same name #4 - Cordoba in Argentina and Cordona, Spain. This is almost solved - all we need is street views for both. Just travel the google streetviews in each city until you find it. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/O7kgXM3DAM
🟪 U.S. NATIONAL PARK/FOREST/MONUMENT SERIES 🟪
PS U.S. National Park/Forest/Monument #25 Not Great Smoky NP but rather a place further north. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/mIepesegjB
✅SOLVED PS U.S. National Park/Forest/Monument #19 https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZQjRwsmGf6om695a6 This looked like PNW, so I started looking at erosion patterns on mountain sides in national forests in Oregon and Washington. At first I thought I found it at Gifford Pinchot, but there were no photospheres in the valley! So I gradually moved north and found a bunch of PSs there at Baker-Snoqualmie Big Four Ice Caves. Other photospheres confirmed the location. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/ZYAwSaV2if
PS U.S. National Park/Forest/Monument #17 Steep rocky mountain slopes with pine trees, forming a V. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/6gCHexUfhS
PS U.S. National Park/Forest/Monument #13 Mountains, stream, meadow. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/kPAJSPyGlF
🟪 SOUTHEAST ASIA SERIES 🟪
Each of the original 11 posts are in a different SE Asian country. NOTE: the following countries have been solved, so that the remaining posts will NOT be in these countries: ✅ Indonesia ✅ Laos ✅ Thailand, ✅Timor-Leste (East Timor) ✅ Malaysia ✅ Brunei. ✅ Singapore
✅SOLVED Singapore. Southeast Asia PS #11 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/6DO4ZX6WXH
Southeast Asia PS #10 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/L7UXiHBw8R
Southeast Asia PS #5 Not Cambodia or Vietnam. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/MDRbBrSW9s
Southeast Asia PS #2 https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/uRBY32m7fe
Southeast Asia PS #1 Not Luzon. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/oziLsK50wp
🟪🟪🟪
PS Deck or rooftop overlooking mountains in fog. Not in Europe. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/qlp8Qfv9e2
Aerial view of a hilltop with houses, in Asia. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/zwrXn2eWzc
PS A long line of people all in white shirts on a levee beside a marsh with some kind of balloons above. NGY. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/v8XZcg2Nyp
🟪 NICE MIX 🟪
👉All these have new hints - open the links to read these mysterious rhyming hints.
PS Nice Mix I. River or lake, dry hills, bridge. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/pAfAbIBrBq
PS Nice Mix VI. View across mountains with a snag. Not in North America. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/7k4VOsZqAb
✅SOLVED Mar de Cobo, Argentina. PS Nice Mix VIII. Beach with houses and flowers. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/LUsGecfyjl
PS Nice Mix X. Painting of a serious looking man. 🧩The man is British. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/1vkmEyBQGM
🟪🟪🟪
PS Hilltop in a mountainous area overlooking a valley. Tile-roofed house. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/9oJ0QSqdt3
GTC PS SV Country Trifecta https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/s44oRgKidy
PS Drone shot of river valley, mountains, and houses along a narrow river. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/IM4kfl70QM
PS Man having a beer on a deck somewhere in Eastern Europe. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/P0UHyjwpmn
✅SOLVED Italy, north of Udine. PS Mountains, very wide river bed with white gravel. 🧩"close" to Slovenia. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/hiAn0oL51X
PS Park or camp with teepee, campfire circle, a pony, and another animal, possibly a small goat. Not in North America. Low mountains behind with a coniferous forest, probably pine. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/FSV6txtN0w
PS Snow covered area with small trees and snags looking like white sculptures; it looks like an area that has been clear-cut. Sunset or sunrise. Mountains in distance. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/zqc9w4sOCd
✅SOLVED Mount Hotham, Australia The trees helped me to figure out that it was Australia, I also made note of how the area looked like a ski resort. I did some searching around and found this website, the picture in #3 looked very similar to the buildings in the photosphere so I decided to check out the area and it matched perfectly Snowy mountains with ski tracks and skiers at bottom. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/aszBuhAe52
PS Landscape with mountains and valley. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/vR4ZvKJWfE
PS Remote falls, northern hemisphere, not Iceland. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/VthMuvHYUi
✅SOLVED Thankful, NC 7432 NC-18 https://maps.app.goo.gl/DNgAG7AqBZ4HJma28 I have family in rural NC (that we visit for thanksgiving!) and this looked a lot like NC in November. I pulled up NC-18 in google maps and started at SC and worked my way north, skipping along to find non-summer street views. Happy Thanksgiving! What is the official US "populated place" name centered at this intersection? https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/mLzplssQxP
✅SOLVED TN-28 in Pikeville, TN! 3009 TN-28 https://maps.app.goo.gl/23uz8J8rdEBW4t8t5 I'm from Pensyltucky so immediately recognized it as ridge and valley province of Appalachian mountains. Checked out a lot of valleys in PA, MD, and VA before landing on this one more or less by luck within 10 minutes of starting on TN.SV Old white diner along road, green truck, deciduous trees with no leaves. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/qzUGKFXYRG
SV Rural or suburban area, very small restaurant with sign "Chinese Fast Food" sign, parking lots, grove of trees. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/zNYTaI1MY1
🟪 DRIFTLESS SERIES 🟪
SV (5) Driftless #1: In the Driftless Region in eastern Wisconsin, NE Iowa and SE Minnesota. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/kBNccfQ7Ci
SV (5) Driftless #2: in the Driftless Area - an unglaciated region that was originally flat, with eroded river valleys unlike the surrounding flat areas. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/oPUykjS5uq
SV (2) Driftless Transportation Image Bonus: one of gray woodframe house with several rusty looking antique cars and the other of a school bus parked on a grassy hill, in this unglaciated hilly region (the Driftless Area) in Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/W3clozeYbW
🟪🟪🟪
Meandering brown river through dense tropical-looking forest, green covered bridge. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/aqXa0VLjaK
SV Rocky Road. Actually rocks placed intentionally on the wide shoulders of the road. In Africa, but not Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/PJ3osdIsxV
SV Stop sign at a checkpoint area (not a border between countries) with a red building; flat terrain; oil wells (pumpjacks); not in North America. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/b2pWDQkqm0
City in the distance, from low mountains with scattered trees; somewhere in between the Caucasus/central Asia areas. Probably Iran. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/ThXkygjSyM
PS Scenic view from mountains https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/5GLgaKQMt3
A village which starts with a T. European but not British Isles or Croatia. Not Germany "but close". https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/vZYMyEMW6o
✅SOLVED PS Near the Machakhela Gun Monument in southern Georgia https://maps.app.goo.gl/thVrfeE5c81KojMi8 With the country narrowed down to Georgia, I first looked up a map of the railway system thinking the bridge was a railway and searched every bridge in the active railway network. When that didn't work I started searching every river valley in a hilly-but-not-too-mountainous area. I started in the north of the country so it took two months 😅 (I feel like I've been to Georgia at this point)Caucasus Region, restaurant nestled near a trestle https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/wCyeQbzSeB PS drone view of town on a winding river with 4 bridges visible in the photo; not technically Asia, but close to Asia. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/QlPBlTavmF
✅SOLVED GTC village in mountains next to a river with a wooden bridge; not Pakistan, but another of the 'stans. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/gxiqOiinLh Tunikarf, Tajikistan https://maps.app.goo.gl/LgtToL95JCS6nLLh9 Followed rivers, clicked on photospheres.
✅SOLVED Answer: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.9337662,26.4943852,3a,75y,108.53h,69.6t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sZTtfGJaglqcEDKOXM36nSg!2e0!5s20120301T000000!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu rural town in Haskovo Province, Bulgaria with donkey pulling cart. 🧩Within 5 miles of international border. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/xa4Ag7WIKr Process: Saw the hints about Haskovo + near international border. Did a scan of all the towns/villages. No match. Extended range a little (maybe even >5mi from border) in case I'd measured wrong (hard to get a precise distance range in GMaps anyway). Soon realized I was going over the same places over and over. Guessed that the OP's pic was from the 2012 SV era from the vibe/weathelighting. Maybe I need to dig back to 2012 for the areas that had been updated? [Asked clarification question but decided to keep looking for a little bit more.] In a re-attempt, focused again on sampling examples of a rural-adjacent street in a (comparatively) large town with a grid system, with the street long enough to stretch straight-ish towards a plains/hills area--but this time considering older SV. On one of the streets in Radovets, I got a vista that gave me a "this could be it" feeling I couldn't shake off. The hills in the distance felt right, and there was one particular house to the right that had the same roof layout, and a wagon parked in the foreground, and a red car (though not a tractor)...The road texture and vegetation were quite different, but I thought "What are the chances there's another block with the same house..." So I tried clicking back to the older SV and started driving up the road, and I saw the back of the man on the donkey cart! (And yes, this was one of the first 3 towns I checked but ignored because of the updated SV.)
SV dirt road in mountains in France, Alpes-Maritimes Departement. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/NW2W1Q9KBP
PS 2 story white building looks like an old school; not in Lithuania or in a country bordering Lithuania, but it is directly south of it. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/9OBz21mspt
PS snowy apartment house, parking lot, "Timberline", #9; not Russia. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/aOVcKn1C6Z
✅SOLVED Trasacco Italy. Abruzzo. Italy Abruzzo https://maps.app.goo.gl/ I saw this comment and started looking for other ag areas in Italy that looked super flat but near tall mountains. I saw this odd "bowl" east of Rome and started checking out street views and saw that it was taken during the right time of year based on plant growth and snow on the distant mountains. Then I had to look around a bit to line up the mountains in the near distance with the ones in the far distance (trial and error). Wh2Q42uAJbpqS5LJ7SV Old farmhouse in ruins surrounded by plowed fields; mountains, some snow capped, in distance. https://www.reddit.com/guessthecity/s/3RGfADpVrH

Hello,
I have 4.5 acres, about .75 of that is clear. I also live on a private road approximately 1300ft long that needs grading, in addition to my 300ft driveway. My goal with the tractor is to be able to complete this driveway work, remove some small trees (3-6” diameter), and move around some material when needed. Ideally I’d like to be able to do snow removal with it as well but I am fine with my plow truck for now. Eventually I’d love to have a Kioti CX3520 with a cab and front mount snowblower but that’s a dream for later.
For now, I’m looking at something that could do everything else to get my decaying property back to good shape. I’m considering the following:
Kioti CS2520 Kioti CX2510 Kioti CK2620
I am leaning towards the CS or CK due to price, given that I eventually plan to trade in or sell and get a larger tractor in the future when I leave the current property. I would like something that has good maneuverability (I have a lot of garden beds and stone walls and things of that nature that have narrow paths around them). My only worry with the CS and CX is that they do not weigh enough to handle the box blade and grading work on the driveway and road. I also don’t love that the CX has plastic components. Does anybody have any opinions or experiences they can share for my situation?
TLDR: Considering Kioti CS, CX, and CK for road maintenance and landscaping. I want the right match of power for the road maintenance and maneuverability for the landscaping. Thank you!

Only one silver company I know of can boast Tavi Costa and Don Durrett as investors. Maronan Metals MMA. Why did they choose Maronan, just look at the team,
Get to know your Maronan Metals Directors.
Simon Bird - Over 30 years of international corporate experience, including holding the positions of General Manager Finance at Stockland Limited, Chief Financial Officer of GrainCorp Limited, and Chief Financial Officer of Wizard Mortgage Corporation and former Director of CPA Australia Limited. He was also Chief Executive Officer of ASX-listed tungsten deposit developer King Island Scheelite Limited and Managing Director of ASX listed gold explorer Sovereign Gold Limited.
A former Non-Executive Director of ASX-listed oil and gas company Rawson Resources Limited and resources company Pacific American Holdings Limited, Mr Bird is currently Lead Independent Non-Executive Director of Mount Gibson Iron Limited (ASX:MGX).
Stockland, Graincorp, Wizard - these are billion dollar companies he held high positions in. CPA director is another top position.
Richard Carlton - A senior executive with over 30 years of extensive mining operations management experience in Australia and internationally across a range of commodities. He has held the position of General Manager at Edna May in Western Australia (Evolution Mining), Stawell Gold Mines in Victoria (Mining Project Investors Pty Ltd), Waihi Gold Mine in New Zealand (Normandy Limited) and the Westonia and the Golden Crown Gold Mines in Western Australia (Australian Consolidated Minerals Ltd).
Mr Carlton’s extensive base metals experience includes North Limited’s mines, the Rosebery underground zinc/coppelead mine in Tasmania and Elura zinc/lead/silver mine in Cobar NSW. Mr Carlton was also a key member of a focused team securing funding and developing a new metallurgical process.
Richard does a great interview here on Youtube with a lot of the history of Maronan - https://youtu.be/XSz-x9Lndws?si=r5e7oOI_2zMskaR5
Rob Rutherford - a geologist with over 30 years’ Australian and international exploration experience and has been involved in generative, feasibility and management roles in the copper, gold and base metal exploration industry.
Mr Rutherford was formerly employed by Phelps Dodge Australasia Inc. for over 9 years where he was promoted to Australian Exploration Manager and internal expert on Iron-Oxide Copper-Gold hydrothermal systems and Sediment-Hosted copper deposits. Mr Rutherford founded Red Metal Limited in 2003, and has been Managing Director of Red Metal Limited (ASX:RDM) since its IPO in October 2003.
Rob is a copper expert, and more recently Rare Earths. Great interview with Rob here (its more Red Metal) https://www.google.com/amp/s/stockhead.com.au/resources/explorers-podcast-is-red-metals-sybella-the-belle-of-the-rare-earths-ball/%3famp
Now the Red Metal Directors , also important because RDM used to own MMA and still controls 53%. RDM and MMA also share the same Director Rob Rutherford.
Russell Barwick - Russell Barwick is a mining engineer with over 40 years technical, managerial and corporate experience in various commodities. He initially worked for Bougainville Copper Limited[CRA], Pancontinental Mining Limited [Jabiluka Uranium] and CSR Ltd [Hail Creek Coal]. Following this, Russell spent 17 years with Placer Dome Inc. occupying a number of key development, operational and corporate roles in numerous countries culminating in being appointed Managing Director of Placer Nuigini Ltd. He then served as Chief Executive Officer of Newcrest Mining Limited where he achieved strong market support. For the four year period up to the end of 2006 Russell was the Chief Operating Officer of Wheaton River Minerals and Goldcorp Inc. during which the quickly evolving company grew from market capitalisation of several hundred million dollars to $22 billion and became the third largest gold company in the world by market capitalisation. He is currently a non-executive director of Mount Gibson Iron Limited, Lithium Power International Limited and the non-listed associated Minera Salar Blanco S.A. (Chile).
Russ has brought more than a few mines online in his career and he was instrumental in setting up the Maronan team.
Joshua Pitt - Joshua is my all time favourite Director. Beginning 20 years ago when my father successfully invested in Dalrymple of which Joshua was Director, Dalrymple went on to make a nickel mine and shareholders got maximum value. During the lean years of Dalrymple, Joshua made the decision to withdraw his own director fees to conserve cash and avoid dilution.
More recently Joshua made another success story with Red Hill Minerals which patiently waited and negotiated for years until a breakthrough royalty deal was struck with Mineral Resources for the iron ore tenements RHI owned. Its gone from 16c to $6.50
From the website which under rates Joshua - Joshua Pitt is a geologist with over 40 years experience in exploration and corporate management. He has had a successful career in providing seed capital and corporate services to new mining and exploration ventures, which include Golden Grove Mining NL, Aztec Mining Limited, Helix Resources NL, Forrestania Gold NL and Dalrymple Resources NL. He is currently Chairman of Hampton Hill Mining NL, Traka Resources Ltd and Red Hill Iron Limited.

We meet the first three players in our story as Del tries finds himself at the helm of a damaged spaceship that is rapidly losing altitude.
Thanks for reading!
[Prev][Next]
[First]
Cover
Sol Standard Time – June 15, 2451
~670 Years ago…
“VELOCITY WARNING – REDUCE SPEED,” The flight computer stated, its artificial British accent conveying a firm, yet unnatural calm despite the chaos unfolding onboard.
“VELOCITY WARNING – REDUCE SPEED. ATMOSPHERIC ENTRY IN 10 SECONDS.”
In the cockpit, various alarms were blaring in a cacophony of synthesized chirping, beeping, and wailing. The ship’s pilot desperately hammered at various caution and warning buttons as they flashed orange, then red. With the current wave of angry buttons subdued, Delton turned his attention back towards the ship’s control yoke. It was determined to jerk itself out of his grasp.
“Yeah yeah, I heard you the first time!” Del grunted through gritted teeth as he fought for control. “Lily, can you shut that thing up and tell me the crew’s status?”
A synthesized female voice answered, “I thought you’d never ask. They’re secure, Del. All stasis systems read green and they all have a clean bill of health.” The ship’s AI said as she overrode the flight computer’s volume settings.
Del’s voice was starting to become more strained, “Awesome. Any progress with the fixes to the maneuvering thrusters? It still feels like the controls are fighting me.”
Lily’s reply was tinged with worry, “Unfortunately, there’s not much else I can do, damage to the fuel lines is high enough in the system that we can’t just shut off the damaged thrusters without losing the good ones too. That said, control linkages to the damaged thrusters have been partially restored and engine two has been successfully shut down.”
“Well that’s something at least.” Del grunted.
The ship started to rumble and outside the cockpit window, a faint orange glow could be seen as the ship sank into the planet’s atmosphere.
--–
Alyrria silently adjusted the strap to her quiver as it started to dig into her shoulder. The akresh she’d been tracking for the last several hours had stopped making noise. Silently, she crept along, keeping her body low to the ground while slowly and steadily making her way closer to her prey. She came upon an old fallen tree, and as she peeked through what remained of its branches, she spotted her quarry rooting through the ground, looking for tubers which would undoubtedly still be full of starch this early in the winter.
Backing away from the log, she readied her bow and nocked a hunting arrow while taking a knee. She drew the bow and rose up slowly as to not startle the akresh when it suddenly bolted. Seeing her chance slipping away, and with all pretense of stealth lost, she straightened up while quickly pulling the bow to a full draw. She sighted the akresh slipping behind the brush and, anticipating where it would be, she loosed her arrow.
The arrow left the string with a dull pluck and had sailed through the brush, making contact with something solid.
Making her way to where the arrow had landed she rounded the undergrowth only to find several cracked quills and a small smattering of purplish blood.
At best she had grazed the creature.
Following the imaginary line her arrow would have taken, she found it half buried in another tree, as she calmed down she could hear the faint patter of six clawed feet rapidly making their way away from her as the akresh lived to forage another day.
With a sigh, she carefully worked the arrow out of the tree, making sure to keep it from warping too badly. She made her way to where the animal had been rooting around, hoping to at least gather some sustenance to extend this hunting trip. Something was bothering her, though. She had done everything right, she was downwind and hadn’t made so much as a whisper, there was no way the akresh should have known she was there.
“Maybe the Huntress herself had a special plan for you.” she muttered as she dug up several misshapen gray-blue lumps from the ground. At least it wasn’t a total loss, with these, she’d be able to stay out for another couple days befo-
Something’s off. Alyrria thought to herself, it took a second before she realized what it was, the moonlight was the wrong color, tinged with orange. Looking up she soon realized what it was, a bright point of light in the sky was steadily streaking across the stars as it split into two.
“Huh, that's strange…” she started to mutter to herself before her eyes grew wider as she realized that the larger of the two lights was starting to glow brighter as if moving in her direction. A deep rumble started reverberating through the forest around her as the starfall grew even brighter, forcing her to shield her eyes.
It sailed far over her head with a thunderclap and she could see a swarm of smaller stars following it before it disappeared behind the treeline to her east. Several agonizingly long moments later, the distant crackling of trees breaking could be heard and the ground beneath her feet vibrated violently. An orange glow could be seen in the direction it had landed.
Alyrria stood there, dumbfounded, for several minutes. She was trying to process all that had happened. She had seen starfalls before as rare as they may be, but neither she nor anyone she knew had ever heard of someone being present where they had landed. The noise would have scared off any nearby game, meaning the hunt was now a lost cause, but if she could bring back a few pieces of valuable skymetal, that would be more than enough to trade for anything she would need over the winter. She’d make sure to remember where it had landed in case there was more there to gather once the First Growth came around and the land started to thaw.
After several more moments of consideration, she slung her bow across her back and decided to make her way towards the direction it had landed.
--–
The control yoke almost tore itself out of Del’s hands before he was able to wrestle some control back.
“ARE WE SLOW ENOUGH YET!?” He yelled above the deafening roar that had taken over the cockpit.
“Not yet, we’re still four hundred meters per second above safe deployment velocity. If we can keep our nose pointed up for a few more seconds we should be able to safely deploy control surfaces.” Lily stated. Rather than needing to yell, she had simply increased her volume to Del’s helmet.
“EASIER SAID THAN DONE!” Del shot back.
As the velocity indicator dropped, the color on the navigation display started to shift from red to yellow as Del and Lily fought to keep their ship from nosing into the air stream. Right before the indicator showed green, the ship suddenly lurched, almost slamming Del’s head against the instrument panel.
“We’ve just lost engine two,” Lily anticipated Del’s question, “sheared off at the mounting brackets.”
As the missing engine decreased the air resistance on one side of the ship, it started to torque to the right just as the velocity indicator ticked into the green.
“Deploying air brakes.” Lily said as multiple panels popped up across the surface of their ship. She overrode the flight computer and took control of the air brakes, actuating them to compensate for the change in drag caused by their missing engine pod, the differential drag whipped the front of the ship back in line with their approach vector.
“I see a lake not too far ahead. I’m going to try and set us down on it.” Del quipped, no longer having to yell as the roar of the rushing air died down. “Can you keep us pointed in the right direction?”
“Assuming nothing else goes wrong, yes. But I’m afraid we may be losing speed too quickly.” Lily replied. “Del, the chances of survival aren’t good if y-” A thoughtful look crossed Lily’s amber holographic face “Ah, I see what you’re doing.”
“Hah, that obvious?” Del asked rhetorically. For as much as his shipmates bemoaned the older styling of their ship, the large flattish layout meant that the body of the craft provided some lift. By gently alternating between nosing down and up, he’d been able to flatten their approach and coax a little more distance out of the stricken exploration vessel.
“Lily, give me a countdown every fifty meters once we’re below a kilometer in altitude.” Del requested as the speed and altitude indicators quickly ticked down.
“Affirmative. Nine fifty… nine hundred… eight fifty…”
Del tightened his grip on the control yoke as he slowly finessed the nose down to give them just a little more forward speed.
“Eight hundred… seven fifty… seven hundred…”
Del punched the button for the landing gear.
“Six fifty… six hundred… five fifty… five hundred...”
To his relief, all landing gear indicators showed green, that should soften the impact a bit.
“Four fifty… four hundred… three fifty… three hundred…”
Del imagined he could hear the wind whipping past the treetops as the ground rushed to meet them. Just a little further.
“Two fifty… two hundred… one fifty…”
Del braced himself as his straps holding him in place tightened automatically.
“One hundred… fifty-”
As soon as he heard the call, Del wrenched the control yoke backwards as hard as he could. The forward maneuvering thrusters roared to life as the lower air brakes shut themselves to torque the nose of the ship upwards. A staccato thudding could be heard as the rear of the ship kissed the treetops.
The rear landing gears caught the near bank of the lake as the downwards momentum of the ship slammed it into the water. It skipped off the surface of the lake several times before finally stabilizing on its belly. Like a penguin sliding across an iceberg, the ship hydroplaned across the surface of the lake as it groaned against the strain, kicking up huge white plumes of water as it went. The far bank of the lake rushed to meet them as the ship cleared the water, rode up onto the dirt, and plowed through the forest for several hundred feet, gouging a massive furrow into the ground behind it before coming to a stop.
For a few moments the only sounds that could be heard was the cracking of the trees and the rushing of water into the newly created trench.
“Del?” Lily asked apprehensively.
“Del, answer me? Please, Del!” Lily’s voice was urgent as Delton slowly came to. The straps had not given way completely, but they had ripped and the landing had whipped his head forward and into the instrument panel in front of him before bouncing back and slamming into his headrest. If it wasn’t for his helmet, the face plate of which was now severely cracked, he was sure his skull would have been split. Instead he was seeing stars as he blinked his eyes to clear them.
“Mmh… yeah… I- uhhh… Yeah, I’mkay…” Del mumbled, still trying to get his bearings. His head lolled to one side as he clumsily removed his flight helmet to rub his temples and cover his eyes. “Ugh… diwee maygit?” he slurred. His head was pounding. The thought that he might have a concussion briefly entered, then exited, his mind as a fresh wave of pain rocked his head.
“Yes, we made it.” Lily answered gently. “Del, I know you’re hurting right now, the first aid kit is on the wall behind you. There should be some pain medication inside.”
Clumsily, Del hit the quick release on his flight harness and practically fell out of the pilot’s seat. He pulled himself back up, using the seat for support. Every movement sent a fresh wave of pain reverberating through his skull.
“I don’t mean to rush you,” Lily’s voice held a hint of worry, “but there is an urgent situation that needs addressing and I need you alert for a short longer while before you can rest.”
“Yeah, I’mgoin, I’mgoin.” Dell rasped through gritted teeth.
He clumsily made his way to the red and white locker on the wall at the back of the cockpit. Peeling it open, he fumbled around, pulling out and throwing the contents to the ground as he searched for the bright blue autoinjector. Eventually, he found what he was looking for. He pressed the blue cylinder against his bicep and pushed the button on the end. Del winced as the autoinjector punched a needle through his suit and into his arm. It hissed slightly as it emptied it’s contents into his bloodstream.
After a few seconds, the pain began to abate and his mind began to clear.
“That’s better.” He sighed, grimacing. “Lily, what’s the problem?”
“A fuel line has ruptured on the outside of the ship. Automatic controls aren’t responding so you’ll have to head out and shut the valve manually. This planet’s atmosphere is breathable, thankfully. Oxygen concentration is a little higher than on Earth.” Lily reported over the ship’s intercom system.
Del sucked air through his teeth. “Great.”
“It’s near the lower aft section of the ship, frame 12R, just behind the starboard landing gear.” Lily continued.
“Right, that’s where the engine tore off…” Del mused as he stumbled over to the cockpit door, slightly disoriented by the emergency lighting.
After a few moments, Del realized the door wasn’t going to open automatically. He pressed on the control panel next to it. Nothing. With a sigh, he glanced at the center of the door, looking for the emergency release. A few more moments passed before his eyes fixed on the bright yellow and red striped cover near the middle of the door. Pulling the cover open, Del grabbed the handle inside and pulled down. With a heavy click and a hiss, the door slid open. This repeated itself several times as Del made his way to the starboard airlock. Once there, he manually cycled the airlock and the night met him with a blast of frigid air as the air pressure equalized.
Squinting against the cold, a whooshing sound and a bright light to his left caught his attention amidst the still air and gently falling snow. Looking over, he saw flames shooting out the bottom of the ship near where the starboard engine used to be.
As he hopped down onto the ground below he saw what was causing the flames, a series of burst fuel pipes was streaming flames onto the ground, the dirt beneath was already starting to glow an angry orange. Quickly making his way over to the landing gear, he looked for an access panel near the landing gear’s bay doors. After finding the access panel for the fuel cutoff closest to the flame, he pried it open and, with all the strength he could muster, he cranked the valve closed.
The flames guttered out.
A dizziness came over him due to the exertion and he stumbled backwards, away from the ship, beholding it for the first time since that ill fated maintenance stop not one hour ago. The front landing gear had either collapsed or had been sheared off and the ship’s cockpit was nosed into the dirt while the rear landing gears had held up, propping the engines and cargo ramp above the ground. Honestly, aside from the missing engine, the damage didn’t seem that bad from where he was sitting. Ugly marks crossed the leading edge of the ship where it had slammed into various trees, toppling them over and throwing them aside unceremoniously.
As Del tried to stand, the dizziness returned. The strain had finally caught up with him and as the nausea hit, he stumbled backwards again, into a tree. He propped himself against it as he threw up onto the ground. Finishing, he looked up, and stumbled forward a few steps before the ground came rushing up to meet him.
--–
Alyrria had been making her way through the forest for a couple hours. She knew she was headed in the direction of Lake Omson and wasn’t surprised when she came upon it. What shocked her, however, was the destruction she beheld. It was like some giant had rolled a boulder across the lake and into the trees beyond, smashing everything in the way. Water was slowly filling the massive furrow that had been carved into the landscape.
“What… the…” She stuttered absentmindedly.
Are starfalls usually this big? The largest one I’ve heard of was no bigger than a couple handwidths… She thought to herself.
As she made her way towards the destruction she couldn’t help but be in awe at the change to the landscape around her, the forces needed to move this much dirt and rock and toss trees around like nothing left her reeling.
No wonder the ground had shook as it did.
Eventually she found herself at the edge of the trench. It wasn’t horribly deep, maybe neck-high at the deepest point, to her right she could see the water of Lake Omson rushing in to fill the new void, to her left, she could see… something.
Whatever had come crashing down. It wasn’t some shapeless lump of rock.
She moved back into the treeline and made her way towards the large thing at the end, keeping parallel with its path of travel. Despite focusing on where she was stepping, she couldn’t help but steal glances towards the end of the path. The closer she got, the more confused she became.
Finally closing in on the object, she didn’t know what to think. It looked like the head of some massive beast. It’s jaw seemed to hang open and its left eye was missing, its lifeblood spilling across the ground, the right eye still glowed an angry red, yet the blue pupil was staring off into the distance, unfocused. As she made her way closer, her foot struck something on the ground with a dull clang. Looking down, she saw a piece of this creature’s skin, that same bright white. Picking it up, she turned it over in her hands and was surprised to find the backside gleamed in the moonlight.
It was made of the purest metal she had ever seen. This raised a slew of new questions, though the two that were most important were where this thing came from and what it was. Upon a second glance, she realized it couldn’t have been something that was ever alive, the shapes were too regular, this was something that had been made, though by who she couldn’t fathom. None of the kingdoms had craftsmen of the needed caliber.
Glancing around, she quickly placed the piece of metal into her pack before making her way around to get a better idea of what this object was.
Alyrria froze as she spotted a body laying face down in the snow nearby, a light dusting of white across the top meant it had only been there for an hour at most. On full alert, she silently made her way closer and a pit formed in her stomach when she realized this must have been a young one, they came up no higher than her shoulder. The stench of vomit drifted in as she neared, making her scrunch her nose. All that was forgotten the moment she heard ragged breathing from the body. She rushed over, noting the odd clothing, and turned the body over, expecting the worst.
She was left with only confusion as she beheld a strange creature, not a Kan’rysi like herself. This thing, this… being… it was wrong. The body shape was close enough, it even had five fingers on its hands like her, but its hide was wrong, where she could see, it looked almost raw, like it had been skinned. It’s facial features were wrong too, eyes too small, ears and nose the wrong shape. The mouth hung open as it took another ragged breath and Alyrria could see this thing didn’t have the same triangular teeth of her people. The snapping of a branch falling nearby knocked her out of her observations while more of this pitiful creature’s labored breathing told her that it wouldn’t last the night if left here.
It wasn’t some animal, and it couldn’t be some savage, the fact that it wore clothing nicer than any she’d seen and had tools of some kind in a belt around it’s waist told her that much. She didn’t know when it’d wake up, but her teachings and beliefs told her that the least she could do was see to it that it survived the night.
Mindful of her claws, she gingerly picked up the being and started the two day trek back towards her village. Thankfully, with where it ended up, next to the lake, it was easy to remember where the starfall lay, and with winter setting in, the chance of someone stumbling across it was low. As she left, a chill ran up her spine as she swore she could hear a roar from the contraption. For a moment, she wondered if it really was the head of some giant, furious that she had rescued the being that had bested it by some means.
She cast such thoughts aside, reasoning that leaving it along for a few days would make it safer to observe later. More importantly, she hoped to learn who and what this being was and from what land it hailed.
--–
Lily watched helplessly through the ship’s external cameras as the tall humanoid made its way to the ship. It inspected then placed a piece of hull debris in its pack before making its way towards Del.
Try as she might, there wasn’t anything she could do to wake him since he’d taken his helmet off and his emergency transponder was either off or otherwise not functioning. While there was plenty of power left, the damage from the crash meant that hydraulics were out to most external systems and it would take a few more hours before she’d be able to safely re-establish connections to the systems on board without shorting something out she’d need later. With her internal systems damaged, she had no way of checking the status of the rest of the crew in their sleeper pods, nor would she be able to wake them on her own as she normally would.
Fear gripped her as she watched the being pick up her friend.
“Let him go!” She yelled through the ship’s intercom, not that it could be heard outside the ship, but she could hope.
Desperate to save him, she had thought to try to scare this native off using the ship’s one good engine, maybe a burst of noise and a light show would do the trick. As the being started to disappear into the treeline, Lily did what she could to spool the engine back up, rerouting fuel and burning through internal software safeties to get the turbines spinning again. As the pair neared the edge of her sensor range she cursed herself for not acting sooner.
A minute later, the pair was gone, too deep into the forest to get a read on with what limited external sensors remained. The port side engine finally sputtered to life two minutes too late, shooting a gout of hot plasma into the air as Lily looked on in despair.
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Never had a riding mower. Moved into a 1 acre lot this year and about 2/3 of it is lawn. Takes me about 3 hrs with push mower as the g grass so growing fast right now. Starting to think maybe a garden tractomower might make sense not just for mowing but also hauling mulch and gravel around the yard. It’s a hike to make several trips by wheelbarrow.
Looking to buy used. What should I look for? Can a decent used machine be had used for $700-$1,000? Is it worth buying a big brand like Husqvarna, Deere, Cadet? Any models or features to avoid? HP? Engine mfgr? Features to look for?
It must be able to mount a large capacity grass catcher to reduce running back and forth. And be able to do things like dethatch, and tow a garden trailer. Live in Texas so no need for plowing snow!
All the models and brands are pretty confusing. Thanks for any tips to get me pointed in the right direction!

I have a complete list somewhere- I'll have to dig it out and update.
x-x-x-x
Aerosmith & Guns n Roses - July 30, 1988 at Val Du Lakes
1st Cinderella, Winger, Bullet Boys - July 29, 1989 Val Du Lakes
2nd Cinderella, Lynch Mob & Nelson - April 28, 1991 L C Walker Arena
Tesla, Firehouse - April 8, 1992 LC Walker Arena
Rolling Stones - December 1, 1994 at Pontiac Silverdome
Smashing Pumpkins - June 30, 1996 at State Theater, Detroit
Bruce Springsteen - September 26, 1996 at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor
Celine Dion - September 22 or 23, 1998 at Palace of Auburn Hills
Night 89x Stole Christmas - December 20, 1998 at Joe Louis Arena Everlast, Garbage, Beck, Placebo, Marcy Playground
Rob Zombie & Korn - March 27, 1999 at Van Andel Arena
Rollins Band - July 2, 1999 at Main Event, Toledo Ohio
U2 & No Doubt - November 19, 2001
Night Ranger - July 20, 2002 ​
Justin Timberlake - July 25, 2003 at Palace of Auburn Hills
Prince - August 1, 2004 at Van Andel
Willie Nelson & bob dylan - August 24, 2004 at 5/3 Ballpark in Grand Rapids
The Frames - August 5, 2006 - The Metro, Chicago
The Frames - August 6, 2006 - Lollapalooza, Grant Park Chicago
Eric Clapton & Robert Cray Band - September 21, 2006 - Van Andel
Roger Waters - September 27, 2006 in Cleveland Ohio
U2 & Pearl Jam in Hawaii - December 9, 2006
BB King - March 21, 2007 at Devos Hall in Grand Rapids https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xog8P7NXKTc
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band - November 5, 2007 at Palace of Auburn Hills
The Police - May 11, 2008 at Van Andel (with Steve Winwood but only saw a couple of his songs)
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - May 30, 2008 at Van Andel
Stone Temple Pilots - July 18, 2008 at Soaring Eagle in Mount Pleasant
Metallica - January 15, 2009 at Verizon Center Washington DC
AC/DC - August 18, 2009 at Van Andel
U2 w/Snow Patrol - September 12, 2009 at Soldier Field in Chicago
Metallica, Volbeat - November 9, 2009 at Van Andel
Elton John - April 24, 2010 at Van Andel
Lady Gaga & Scissor Sisters - March 1, 2011 at Van Andel
U2, Florence + The Machine - June 26, 2011 at Spartan Stadium, East Lansing
Motley Crue, Poison - August 3, 2011 at Van Andel
Willie Nelson, Robert Randolph and the Family Band - August 10, 2011 at Rock the Rapids, Grand Rapids
Alice Cooper, Bachman & Turner - August 11, 2011 at Rock the Rapids, Grand Rapids

I live in Maryland, when my parents moved from here down south my dad left his snow plow at my house. Figuring it would be easier to sell it somewhere it actually snows. Three years and hardly any snow…….i still have the plow. I don’t have the capability to hook it up and take it to a scrap yard.
ETA: 2006 7.5 myers plow E-57H Mounted on 2500 Silverado
Any tips on how to get rid of it ?

Attack on titan season 5: the final season finale part 1 and 2 part aB: “The attack on titan movie”- finale special- chapter 2b: Part 2 finale parts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5: (yes the title is a joke lol)
Part 1: DEMONS OF THE PAST
The flying boat soared over the founding titan as the scouts deployed for their last mission. Cold morning air attacked their faces with hundreds of tiny stings and the speed of the wind fighting their descent forced tears to fly from their eyes. Diving towards the towers of bone beneath them they activated their ODM gear, launching them forward. Reiner activated several bursts one after the other to hurl him towards the crystalline beast titan. A yellow ball of energy erupted around him when he transformed and he let out a thunderous roar. He hit his target dead on and sent them both flying with extreme speed and momentum. Levi and Mikasa dove from the sky and landed on Eren’s back, perched upon Pieck’s cart titan. Both anxiously look at Reiner falling towards the massive bone ground below. After a few rolls Reiner stood up only to find the titan he had tackled was gone. Steam surrounded him and the body of the beast titan dissipated. “You really thought it would be that easy?” A voice boomed from within Reiners mind and was heard by everyone else around him, confirmed by the frightened eyes of his new comrades. “This is where the fun begins”, said Eren, a slight chuckle slipped from his mouth. The sky exploded with golden beams of lightning and shockwaves shook the ground. Five tongues of yellow fire sprung out from the founding titans tallest spike and white beings began to form. Eren used the war hammer titan’s power to summon five titans from deep in the world's past. A colossal titan caused the earth to shake as it hit the ground near where Armin had landed. The war hammer titan leapt onto Reiner and a spear materialized in its hand. A cart titan from hundreds of years ago charged through a yellow wall of smoke and took the form of a rhino. This titan was equipped with a medieval cannon positioned on its back. A female titan, significantly smaller than Annie’s, jumped from the skeletons peak and caught her fall in a roll. Her black hair waved in the wind and her eyes, though cold and crystal white, had an air of confidence that pierced through the chaos of battle. Huge white jaws sprawled out of the smoke and launched at Pieck. Her titan, slow compared to the rest, had no time to react. Pulling away and preparing for a serious wound, she let out a gasp of surprise. The massive teeth of this six legged spider like jaw titan snapped closed around Pieck’s leg with crushing power, severing it from her body with a spurt of dark red blood. Steam poured out of her wound, cloaking the jaw titan’s hairy wolf head in a cloud of white. Seconds later the smoke cleared and revealed the titan, lying on the ground in front of her. A small figure stood on top of its head with a sword buried deep into its neck. Levi flew in to join the fight, but it was already over. “Looks like I'm finally faster than you, captain.” Mikasa smirked, pulling her sword from the titans' nape. “That was some serious speed” He replied, “But hey, maybe it's finally time for me to leave the heavy lifting to you kids” “Thanks for the save, that was close.” The cart titan said with a sigh of relief. “Compared to the rest my titan is slow, that would have been the end for me if you guys weren’t here. The cart titan isn’t meant for battle, this will most likely be my last. That being said,” She paused for a second, “I may still be useful. I have an idea for how we can kill Zeke.” “Reiner!” The voice rang out again. “You had the right idea attacking the beast like that, but you lack the understanding to accomplish your goal. And even if you did separate Zeke and I, you wouldn't like my plan b” Eren’s voice echoed in their minds once again. Suddenly, another beam of light appeared where the beast titan had previously been attached to Eren’s spine. Within seconds, a second beast was formed and took aim at the flying boat in the distance. Crushing a crystal in his hand he hurled a volley at the boat, striking its body, wing, and propeller. Dozens of eyes tracked the ship as it made its descent and silence fell over the battlefield. The plane nose dived to the ground and exploded. The first life had been taken just moments into the fight. The brave Onyankopon went down with his ship after courageously delivering the angels to their final battle with the demons of this world. “I need a second to think and Pieck needs time to heal. Mikasa, you go help the others.” Levi ordered. “There are at least 4 more titans on the field.” “But we can’t let the beast have free reign, we don't stand a chance against his long range attacks!” “Don’t worry about him, he’s mine.” his eyes glowed with a mix of a dozen emotions, “And besides, we have this bone pillar as cover for the time being. Now go help the others, that's an order!” Mikasa leapt off the back of the now dissipating titan and launched herself forward with a burst of air. “She’s right though, that bearded bastard is gonna be hard to take out from here. What would you do, Erwin?” Levi thought “And why does a cocky brat like Eren need a plan b?” An eerily peaceful silence surrounded Mikasa as she neared the edge of the founder’s massive skeleton. The booming footsteps of Eren’s march had ceased. “Wait, did he stop moving?” she questioned. She looked over the edge and surveyed the war that had ensued below her. The titans from within the walls had formed a circle around them, creating the battlefield for their final fight. To her surprise, Eren’s lack of movement had positioned him at the back of this titan circle and the battle had moved to the ground beneath them. He stood motionless, viewing the war from above as his army of titans attacked. From this vantage point she saw Armin, who she didn’t even notice had transformed, charging the colossal titan formed by Eren. “A fair fight.” She thought, “He’s got this.” Her eyes shifted to the rhino titan who was currently being harassed by two small figures, Jean and Connie she concluded. They looked like they were both attached to the giant titan’s front horn with their ODM gear grapples and flying above it’s head, moving in for the kill. “They should be able to make quick work of the cart titan,” She thought, “It doesn’t seem to be particularly suited for a battle like thi-” A massive bang erupted from the cart titan and a plume of smoke exploded around it. Her eyes darted over to Armin who now had a gaping hole in the center of his chest. The recoil of the cannon firing sent the rhino sliding back and flung Connie and Jean off and towards the ground. Jean caught himself and slid to a stop but Connie fell hard, taking the blunt of the impact on his shoulder. “You good bro?” Connie shouted. “I'm fine! But I'm not the one who landed like an idiot, are you ok?” Jean yelled back through a smile. “I’m good dude, but Armin took that cannon ball straight to the chest. That shouldn’t be a fatal wound, right?” Worry cracked in his voice. “No, he should be fine if he can recover his footing. We gotta make sure that cannon doesn’t fire again. I’ll fly over to his back and blow up the cannon with my thunder spear, you head over to his face and distract him. We have to keep his attention away from the rest of the team.” They share a quick glance and nod. “Go!” Screams Connie Armin stumbles back a few steps and takes an uppercut to the chin from the opposing colossal titan. Now on his back on the ground, he prepares for a second attack by putting his hands in front of his face. The crystal colossal’s foot comes speeding down towards Armin’s face but he sends him flying with a kick to the stomach. The kick sends him stumbling back and buys the organic titan a few seconds to get back on his feet. “That cannonball may have given my opponent an opening, but it’s not a fatal wound. I should be good.” Armin says to himself “I need to win this fight so I can go help the others.” Both standing with their fists in a battle ready position, round two begins. Armin opens with a sprinting shoulder tackle and is greeted with a flying knee to the stomach. A fist slams into Armins head, stunning him for a moment. He counters with one punch to the enemy titans jaw and a swift but powerful shove to the chest. Now with some space between them, Armin looks back towards the rhino titan. He sees Connie dangling from the titans head and swinging back and forth between his eyes and Jean mounted atop the cannon waving at him. “What kind of ugly looking horse even are you?! Connie screams at his opponent who he knows most likely doesn’t understand him. Jean, Connie, and Armin share a glance. Words weren’t exchanged but the plan was understood. Armin grabs his opponent by the shoulders, pivots his foot, and swings him around switching places with him. Now facing towards Jean and Connie, Armin holds the white colossal titan in place with both hands on his shoulders. Ensuring he stays still, he braces for impact. BANG! A cannon ball flies across the horizon and strikes the titan straight through the nape. The titan now hung limp in his hands. Armin releases his grip and sends the titan falling towards the ground. The impact causes smoke to shoot up into the sky around him, just Armin’s victorious skyward fist peeking out from the top. Signaling sucess to Jean and Connie. “Bullseye!” Shouts Jean, eyes glowing from behind the massive smoking barrel. “Nice shot!” Yells Connie from below “Well done guys, they don't stand a chance against the scouts!” Armin thinks to himself, “Don’t get too excited, the battle isn’t over yet” His thoughts now in a calm, calculated tone. He looks over at where a lightning bolt had landed earlier and sees Mikasa standing over the dissolving body of the female titan. “Battle assessment!” Armin said out loud from within his titan “Jaw, Colossal, and female titans are all down. What should I do next? Connie and Jean can take the new cart titan, they don't need me. Levi is still on top of Eren with Pieck, they must be planning an attack on Zeke. Do I try to stop Eren? No way, we can’t attack him directly, we have to stop him by separating him from Zeke. And besides, he doesn’t seem to be a threat right now at least in terms of combat.” He pauses for a second before his eyes widen. “Wait, where is Reiner?” His eyes dart to two figures standing in the distance behind the cart titan. The war hammer, now wielding a crossbow, fires an arrow into Reiners face joining several other arrows inserted deep into his armor. Blood spills out from cracks in his chest and legs and stains the sand red. Reiner limps forward, dragging his left leg behind him. Blood pools beneath him from a deep slice on his knee and his left arm lie severed on the ground behind him. The war hammer tosses it’s crossbow aside and summons a shield and spear. Shield in its left and spear in its right, it charges forward to eliminate its foe. A massive shadow covers the battlefield and a cry slices through the tense air like a knife through butter. Falco soars through the sky screeching a new found battle cry. Transforming into the jaw titan after digesting Zeke’s spinal fluid created a half beast half jaw titan that takes the form of a massive feathery eagle. Lightning parts the clouds above Falco and strikes his back resulting in a yellow surge of light and a humanoid figure standing atop him hidden by smoke. Annie leaps out of the sky hurling a surgically placed heel to the warhammer's skull, knocking him to the ground. She takes a few steps back, eager to defeat her opponent, but cautious of its abilities. The war hammer slowly rises and prepares to duel the armored and female titan. Shield and spear still in hand he waits for his opponents to attack first. Annie wastes no time and charges, ducking a spear thrust with a slide, and taking the war hammer out at the legs. Reiner dashes in from behind and wraps his remaining arm and both legs around him, setting Annie up for the killing blow. “Damn it! I can’t take time to think I just have to fight.” Levi curses under his breath. “If I find a way to separate Eren and Zeke I can give Armin a chance to come up with a plan to end this. You guys trusted him” He looks up at the sky. “I should too.” “You’re thinking about your fallen comrades aren’t you?” Pieck says looking at him inquisitively. Now in human form, she stands on top of her titan opening the big leather case strapped to its back. He doesn’t respond. “Funny, I am too. War tends to make you think about those who have been important in your life. It is unfortunate that most of those people are in my past.” She looks down “Do you think they are watching?” “You talk too much.” He snaps before sighing. “But if they are, it's time to give them a show. What’s your plan?”
Part 2: FOR ALL MANKIND

“Annie and Reiner have the upper hand now, everything is going as planned.” Armin reassures himself. Everyone is accounted for on our side but where is the armored titan? It’s the only one Eren didn’t summon, is he saving it for the event that he started losing?” 

A stream of fire pours from Eren once again, igniting the white clouds in an orange glow. The armored titan appears before Mikasa, only a hundred yards from Reiner and Annie. Dawning white armor and a knight's helmet, he lets out a mighty roar. Falco swoops down, claws in attack position and ready to strike the demon dragged out of the past by Eren. The beast titan flashes white and a stone appears in his hand. ‘Wait, what are you doing?” Levi says, sadness in his voice. A volley of white rock streaks across the sky painting Falco with ribbons of blood. His wings begin to flap in a panic as he slowly falls out of the sky screaming in pain. Falco lands near the armored titan and the ground erupts with dust and smoke from the impact. Sand and rock launch in every direction and visibility is stolen. Jean and Connie watch as he falls but remind themselves to remain focused. “We have to take this chance and eliminate the cart titan while we can!” Screams Connie as he flies and meets up with Jean on the titans back. “Ok, ready your thunder spear!” Jean shouts. They both fly into the air above and prepare to strike. Suddenly the cart titan bolts from beneath them with shocking speed and disappears into the the wall of smoke caused by Falco’s landing. Jean and Connie reach the peak of their jump and then slowly begin to hurtle towards the ground below. With nothing to grapple onto and only seconds to react they brace for impact. Moments later the sound of their bodies hitting the ground echoes across the desert. Connie chases the fog from his mind by shaking his head and looks over to see Jean lying on the ground unconscious. ‘I can’t hold him still with just one arm!” Reiner yells from within his titan. The war hammer slips out from Reiners grasp and a sword appears in his hand. With one swift movement he throws the sword into the mass of smoke before receiving a kick to the skull by Annie that puts him on his back on the ground. His head explodes and is buried in the sand under Annie’s foot. Her stomp sent shockwaves of crystal pulsing out around them. “Defeated” says Annie in a calm and concluding tone. The ground shakes as the rhino comes running out of the smoke being ridden by the armored titan. He reaches out his hand and catches the sword thrown by the war hammer and roars as they charge into battle. Armin’s eyes glance at the rhino, then to Jean and Connie, and then back. Connie struggles to carry Jean out of harms way as his vision is clouded with tears. “Jean…I think this is the end.” Connie whispers, “But I’m not gonna leave you Jean, don’t worry.” Connie tries to drag Jean away but he soon realizes there’s not enough time. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. “I’m sorry mom.” Seconds later, darkness engulfes them. The shadow of Reiner standing over them blocks out the sun and blood rains from above. The knight’s sword plunges deep into the armored titan’s neck and blood gushes out, turning the white blade crimson. Jean’s eyes open just in time to see the arnored titan’s one remaining arm go limp as life drains from his eyes. Reiner smiles as he slams a cup onto the wooden table in their living quarters. His cheeks red and his mouth wide in a grin. “Another!” He shouts “I knew a mama's boy like Eren couldn’t out drink me! There’s no way you were gonna win this!” “I bet I could eat more potatoes than you!” Sasha screams as she elbows him in the side. “Why am I seeing this now?” Reiner says, “I don’t deserve to see these happy memories. I betrayed them all.” He is then taken back to the day the titans attacked, he sits with Annie outside the wall. Light from a campfire illuminates their faces. “Do you really think everyone behind those walls are devils?” he asks her. “Yes, you know they are so don’t start doubting your mission now. We invade them today and we go back home as heroes.” she replies. “All I’ve done in my life is kill and steal, have I done anything good in my life? His voice quietly echoes within the titan walls around him. His vision slowly becomes consumed by darkness. “I guess I’m happy for it all to be over, maybe this is a good place to call it quits. Maybe I can finally leave this damned world behind. Maybe I can finally rest.” Looking into the distance at the walls then back at Annie he says “Will killing all of our enemies really save humanity?” he closes his eyes slowly. “Saving humanity huh” Tears well up in his eyes, “I think I’m finally on the right side of this war. I think I finally know that what I fought for was worth dying for…” Warm tears stream down his cheeks. “For Colt, for Annie, for Gabbi, for Falco…… For all mankind.”
That day, the armored titan died a hero.
The mix of emotions that flooded through everyone's hearts was a twisting tornado. The desert was quiet for the first time since the battle began as everyone stared at what just happened in disbelief. The peace was quickly shattered when another cannon ball fired. Out of the smoke shot a sniper's bullet. Severing the armored titan’s head clean off and parting a tunnel through the smoke to reveal Gabbi sitting on top of the cannon from within the smoke cloud. Jumping off of Falcos back when he went down she had landed on the cannon left there when the armored titan mounted the cart titan. Annie picks up the shield and spear left behind by the war hammer and charges towards the cart titan. Her eyes ignite in a raging fire of revenge. Blocking the rhino's giant horn attack and driving the spear straight into the wild beast's heart, the fight was over just seconds after it began. Armin jumps from his titan’s neck and joins the rest of the team who are now all gathered around the body of Reiner. Jean and Connie stand frozen, looking down at the lifeless body of the person they had spent the last seven years trying to kill. The person that had just saved their lives. The hate that lived in their heart for so long had been swept away and now all that was left was sadness. Jean, Connie, Armin, Annie, and Mikasa stood in a line with their fists over their hearts. Their eyes glistened but now with respect and honor instead of anger and sorrow. “So you really think Zeke is in that spine?” Levi asked, “I do.” Answered Peick. “Before we were sent out on our first mission we were given a quick class about titans we may encounter. This class had a brief discussion about the war hammer titan. Although we did not know who possessed the ability at the time, some of its powers were known to us. By using that information as well as the details gathered from the battle where Eren defeated the war hammer, I have confirmed a theory brought to our attention during that class. The war hammer has the unique ability to stay a certain distance away from danger by surrounding the user in a crystal ball. This cocoon connects to the body of the war hammer through a cable of flesh. This cable can only be a few hundred yards though, or so the Marlyean’s thought at least. The titans we are currently fighting do not have these connections. However, this may be the case with Zeke because he is still alive. If this is true, Zeke's body must be inside that giant tower of bone beneath where the beast titan appears.” Levi’s eyes narrow, “Ok, but that doesn’t help because we still can’t pinpoint the exact location of Zeke’s body.” Pieck opens the pack strapped to her cart titan’s back, revealing the explosives the Jeagerist’s strapped to the flying boat. “We don’t have to.” She says, a grin of confidence across her face. The grin slowly faded and disappeared, replaced by a peaceful look on her face as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “You sure about this?” Levi said, a tone of respect in his voice he hadn’t used in a while. “Yes.” She said as she leapt into titan form with the explosives wrapped around her. Her titan bounded across Erens back and crawled up the spike the beast titan was perched upon. The beast crushed a crystal in his hand and prepared to throw a volley at Pieck but it was too late. The sky exploded in a burst of red and orange fire, consuming the beast titan and raining down shards of white rock to the earth below. The pillar of bone cracked and split, revealing a hollow center. The top slowly toppled over and hit the ground with a glass shattering crack. Levi squinted his eyes to see through the splintering white and red explosion and then his pupils doubled in size. Deep within the cavern of bone and darkness lay a spherical crystal. With three continuous blasts from his ODM gear he traveled fifty yards in seconds. “Your sacrifice just saved the world.” He whispered. Levi hurls a thunder spear toward his target and blows a hole in the top of the crystal ball revealing Zeke inside. His eyes glow red behind blonde strands of hair and orange mist hisses out from the opening in the crystal. His face is without expression. “Hey! Snap out of it.” Levi yells, “I need you awake for this!” The red fades from Zeke’s eyes and his gaze is centered on Levi. “Eren had me in some kind of trance but you freed me.” He shouts at Levi, “Use your sword to free my legs and separate me from Eren, if we team up we ca-” Levi’s blade cuts the sentence short. “I’ve heard enough outta you.” He says as Zeke's head rolls onto the ground. “Go to hell shitbag.” Levi steps out of the darkness and falls to his knees. He looks up to the sky and a beam of light shines from parted clouds, illuminating his face in a radiant glow. The light gently shimmers reflecting off of tears as the emotions of war flood out from within him. His shoulders softly shuddered. He cried for those who sacrificed their lives to get them this far.
Although he couldn’t feel it, a ghostly hand rested upon his shoulder.
Part 3: SLAVE TO VENGEANCE

The second life fled from the beast titan’s veins, smoke covered the battlefield. The silhouette of Eren’s founding titan disappeared and Levi felt sand beneath his feet instead of bone. The smoke began to clear and the world around him shifted into black skies with streams of blue and green light glowing above him. Eren’s voice echoes from the darkness, “I told you, you were going to regret that.” 

Levi looks around to see everyone else had joined him in the coordinate. Fear glowed from their eyes. The remaining scouts stand in a line with their eyes fixed on Eren standing before them. Armin’s eyes glance around, analyzing his surroundings. A crowd of people stand around them. “That’s right Armin, the entire world is watching.” Eren snarls. “Eren! Why are you doing this?” Armin screams, his throat tightens and tears swell in his eyes. “We don’t have to keep fighting, we can just end this now and go home, please Eren think about the future!” “I’ve seen the future,” He replies, “And I’m not in it.” Armin starts to speak but Eren talks over him “The only way for us to be free is if we destroy all of our enemies. In order to save humanity someone had to sacrifice their own, and I was the one destined to do so.“ Connie wipes a tear from his face he didn’t realize was there. His soul wishes for the piece of his heart he lost on the docks when he slayed the men that were once his friends. Mikasa covers her face and sobs into her hands. Eren looks at her, pity in his eyes. “A slave like you wouldn’t understand.” Armin takes a step forward. “We may be slaves Eren, but you are no different” Hatred claws its way out of Eren’s heart and escapes from his mouth “I am no slave!” “Yes you are. And it blinds you. You can’t even see the walls that surround you nor the chains around your hands, but I can. You are a slave to your pain. A slave to vengeance. And a slave to hate! Look around you Eren, the only enemies you have left are the people you swore to protect. Reiner and Pieck are dead because of you! How many more of your people will you kill before this can end?” “My people?” He screams, “My people are almost extinct because Reiner killed them! How dare you call those devils that betrayed us my people. They have been our enemies since we were born into this god forsaken world and anyone who fights alongside them deserves to join them in hell. You chose to fight with them. You chose to fight against me. You chose death. Maybe once I trample the entire world and create a new one they will be grateful for the freedom I’ve given them. We used to think titans were the most powerful beings alive, but what is a titan to a god?” Mikasa's heart breaks and boils over in the form of a painful scream. “How can you say that Eren? You really think you are a god? What happened to you?” She falls to her knees. Tears fall like rain and saturate the sand below. “The Eren I loved is gone. My friend is truly lost, and I will do what I must to protect the ones I have left!” Mikasa dashes towards Eren and thrusts her blade towards his throat. “Not so fast Mikasa.” Eren says with a teasing tone. “Look at what you’re doing!” She pauses, her body trembling. “I told you you wouldn’t like my plan b” Mikasa looks down to see Historia standing before her. Less than an inch between her throat and her sword. A baby sleeps swaddled in her arms. “Royal blood!” Armin says to himself, his thoughts a rushing river. “You wouldn’t!” He shouts to Eren He locks eyes with Historia. Then the world around them flashes white. His eyes instinctively close shut and his hands fly out in front of his face blocking the blast of light brighter than the sun. When he opens his eyes he is surprised to see the desert surrounding him once again, a dark shadow looming over him. Green eyes pierced through the smoke and cast a spell of fear onto all who saw it. The smoke clears to reveal the founding titan staring down at them. Eren’s final form stood taller than the colossal titan. Spikes of jagged bone lined his back and continued down a long tail of pure muscle. Pointed ears reached towards the sky through long black hair that hung down to his shoulders, slowly waving in the wind. His ribcage protruded from his chest bursting out through skin and muscle. Curved claws of crystal sprawled from his flesh-covered hands and a grin of massive sharp teeth stretched across his entire face. A roar rattled the earth and sounded the beginning of the final battle. Jean and Connie grapple to Eren’s ribs and swoop up to his eye level. Floating in the air time stops. Jean breaks his gaze with Eren and glances over at Connie only to see a flash of blood. White claws stained red slice through the air and a wall of blood erupts from where Connie was just seconds earlier. Jean dodges a similar attack from Eren and activates his ODM gear to dash out of the way of Eren’s massive claws. Jean’s eyes dart over to a figure hurling towards the ground leaving a trail of blood behind it. Jean blasts through the air with two spurts of oxygen and catches Connie mid air before tumbling to the ground with Connie in his arms. Connie’s arm fell from the sky and landed on the ground moments after they did. “The bastard chopped my arm off!” Connie yelled as blood gushed from his wound. Falco dove from the sky and dug his claws deep into Eren’s left shoulder, knocking him off balance. Annie saw a window of opportunity and acted swiftly, stabbing Eren in the knee with the war hammer's spear. Armin clenched his fist and sent it hurling towards Eren’s face. Eren caught Armin’s fist in his hand blocking his attack with ease. With the other hand he grabbed Falco by the neck, sinking his claws deep into his flesh. Then, he kicked Annie, sending her flying. “We can’t win this way.” Mikasa thought. “He will overpower any titan attack we throw at him. His only weakness is that he is slow in this form. I have to go in for the kill.” She rose into the sky like an angel of death and stared Eren dead in the eyes. Releasing two thunder spears with a graceful twirl she blasted a hole in Eren’s face through his right eye. Using the last of her oxygen she dashed inside and met Eren face to face. He stood inside the titan’s head, tethered by strands of flesh that attached to either side of his face. Mikasa's sword pierced through his chest in the blink of an eye. He coughed up blood as their eyes met. Armin jumps in through the hole and stands before them, tears in his eyes. The titan around them crumbles and is replaced with a blue sky. Armin feels grass beneath his feet and looks up to see Eren sleeping beneath a tree. “Eren, wake up!” says Mikasa in a child's voice. “You’ve been asleep for hours!” “What is this?’ He responds, “Why are we kids again? What’s happening?” “This is the childhood that was stolen from us.” Armin replies in a high pitched voice. “This was the last time we lived in peace before the titan’s attacked the walls. It feels like a lifetime ago.” “Peace.” Eren says, “Is this what it feels like? It’s been so long I must have forgotten.” The rage left his eyes as he looked at his friends. He wished to go back to those days before the war. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry!” He yelled as tears filled his eyes. “What have I done?” “It’s ok Eren,” Mikasa said in a calming voice. “I was overwhelmed by rage and revenge. The hate inside me ignited a fire that consumed my very humanity. I thought I had to become a monster to defeat the monsters that stole our freedom, but…” He paused, losing his train of thought as life slowly left his body “You guys are different. You chose love when I chose hate. The second the titans attacked- no, the second they took my mom, it was decided. We were set on our paths and our fates were written. Our destiny was set in motion. I was blinded, I was enslaved.” His eyes shifted from Mikasa to Armin and back. “Anyway, that ends now. Thank you Armin. Thank you Mikasa…..now, I am truly free.” A single tear gently dripped from his chin, falling through a sky full of clouds and silently landing in a glistening body of water. A salt lake so big a merchant could spend their entire life and still not deplete it.
Part 4: THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WAR
—Some years later—
“Hey daddy?” A young girl asked, sitting on her fathers knee. “Yes sasha?” replied Jean. “So after you and mommy defeated Eren, did the rumbling stop?” “Yes, dear.” Said Mikasa, sitting across from them on a couch. “What happened to Annie?” another voice chimed in. This time a slightly older boy from across the room. “She helped us win the fight but…” She paused for a moment, considering how to word her response, before continuing, “Things were complicated. After we came home she took a horse and rode off into the forest. No one really knows where she went, but we are grateful for her heroic acts and remember her for them.” “So did Eren destroy the entire world? Are we safe from titans?” Sasha asked with fear in her voice. “We are safe Sasha, you know that.” The boy replied, “No one has seen a titan since then and Eren stopped all the bad guys. He ensured we could live our lives in peace, right mom?” Mikasa smiled and nodded. “Ok good, can we eat lunch now?” Sasha asked as she slid off Jean’s knee. “She really is just like her” Jean said as they locked eyes, “She really is,” Mikasa whispered.
The door slowly swung open and a small figure entered the tiny house holding a cane. “Uncle Levi!” The kids shouted in excitement. “You’re just in time for tea!” “Oh good, can’t wait,” He said back. “We just heard the story of how you saved the world. Are you sure you are the same Levi? No way someone as old and slow as you could be that cool!” The kids teased. Sasha reached out to hand Levi a small cup of tea but the handle broke off, sending the cup falling to the ground. The cup vanished before it reached the floor. “What? Where did it go?” Sasha yelled. Levi calmly handed her the cup and a smile formed across her face. “Ok, I take it back.You move so fast I didn’t even see you! The cup just teleported to your hand!” He looked down at her and said “Here, hold it from the top like this so that doesn’t happen.” as he handed her a new cup of tea and grabbed one for himself. Taking a look around he added “It’s so dusty in here you’d think this place had been abandoned for years. Do you guys ever clean up around here?” Mikasa and Jean laughed and Levi smiled back at them. “Can we go play by the fountain?” Sasha asked. “Yes, but take Levi with you.” Mikasa replied. “Yay.” Said Levi with a frown which quickly turned to a smirk. They all walk out to a fountain built in the center of a thriving city. Inside the middle is a statue of Eren, sword in the air. Historia sits on a bench beside the fountain with a teenage girl next to her. She looks down at her daughter and remembers being frozen with fear when Eren pulled her into the coordinate. She remembers the sorrow she felt when Eren reached out to her and the world around her flashed white. The next thing she remembered was waking up, clutching her baby tight in her arms. To her surprise, she was still asleep. Jean walks towards her and begins to greet her, snapping her out of her daydream, but is interrupted when Connie ambushes him from being and puts him in a headlock. “Wow oh no I’m so scared of a one armed moron stop you’re gonna make me pee my pants!” Jean yelled at Connie which resulted in an eruption of laughter from the group. Connies cheeks flushed red. “Hey mom, how are you feeling? Is it too hot out? Do you want to go sit in the shade?” Connie asked sincerely. “Im fine son, stop worrying about me so much! I’m a grown woman!” Again, the group laughed but this time more at Connie instead of with him. Falco and Gabbi came around the corner and stopped for a second, looking at their new family laugh and joke together. Their eyes met and they shared a deep look of affection and gratitude before holding hands and joining the group. Falco was no longer the small boy he used to be, now he towered over the rest and wore a neatly trimmed blonde beard. Gabbi was a beautiful young woman, her eyes glowed with a warm and welcoming shine instead of an assasin’s bloodlust. They found a new home and a new family. And with it, came a new sense of peace and joy they had never experienced before. Armin and Mikasa sit on the beach, the wind blowing in their hair as a seagul dances in the sky above them. The sound of the waves crashing against the sand like a rhythmic song. They sat there for a long time together, staring out into the sea. “It’s getting late, we should head back to town.” Armin says while looking at Mikasa and smiling. “It’s weird,” She replies, “I used to have to come here every day just to see and talk to him. Now weeks go by and I don’t even think about him. It’s been so long I think I have finally moved on. But why does that feel so wrong to say?” “It’s not,” Armin answers, “It’s what he would have wanted.” They walk down the beach together in silence for a while before meeting up with the others. Their footsteps in the sand behind them lead back to a small pile of rocks in a quiet clearing just past the sand. A wooden cross proudly stands upon the top and a blue shell rests at the base of the mound. A small grave stone sits in front and reads: “Here lies Eren Yeager, savior of Humanity”
Part 5: THE SEA

Eren sits on a beach staring at the horizon when a noise causes him to turn around. An old man slowly approaches and smiles through a long white beard, wrinkles surround his mouth from a long life of laughter. “Armin?” Eren screams, “Took you long enough, tell me everything!” 

There two old friends sat on the beach and talked. They talked about their lives. They talked about their happiest memories and how time has passed. They talked about their dreams, their passions, they talked about the sea and about the fields of snow and the lakes of fire. After some time they were joined by an old woman. A small yet strong woman that they had known their entire lives. She brought with her a husband who they fought along side back when titans still roamed the earth. As time passed and lives were lived their children joined them too. And their children brought their children. The sea glistened and the birds sang their songs as families were reunited on that shore. Armin’s eyes filled with tears when he saw them. All of them stood and welcomed him. Hange smiled her warm smile and Erwin placed his hand on Armin’s shoulder. “You did it.” He said, “I knew you could do it.” The waves crash at their feet as Eren and Mikasa meet again. He runs towards her and wraps her up in a hug. “It’s been so long,” She says to him through tears of joy. They stand there on the beach for a long time, just holding each other in a warm embrace. A dove soars above them, dancing on the wind….flying free.
THE END

Don't have a lot of details, but there was this game where you moved a character around (not sure if an animal or a human) and I think dug holes in squares. I think you had to dodge or avoid a peril but I am not sure. It came out around 2003-2006. There were no platforms you jumped onto or down below, it was solid. Definitely was ice or snow