Of mice and men read online free

Hello all who read,
I come from india and have a little experience riding motorcycles, I have ridden 150cc Bajaj for 1 month and now as I am back in the US, I feel that the time is right to get a motorcycle. I turn 16 in a couple of weeks and found a CBR 300F for 3500 OBO, 2015 with under 400 Miles on it, Just wanted to know if

1. It's a good deal
2. Insurance (If I transfer title to dad's name and I am a learner will insurance be free?)
3. Its a good bike in general to start on

Thanks!

We're now onto the Dress Up Days episodes. I had these episodes on DVD when I was a kid, and so I watched them many times. This ep in particular popped into my head a few years ago, and that's what got me back into this show. I'll admit that I'm partial towards this ep and some of the others I grew up with. Anyways, spoilers ahead, so read at your own risk.
We open with the gang at Strawberry's house (including Blueberry, the writers make good use of her character immediately after introducing her). They were supposed to have a garden party, but immediately starts raining heavily. While inside, Blueberry suggests going to her house and playing dress up, since all of the picnic food was "ruined" (It didn't look that bad from what I can tell). Also, sidenote: Blueberry's voice sounds especially high pitched in this ep, even more so than in her first appearance. Idk if there were some audio issues or if the VA was trying something out. Anyway, Strawberry has a bunch of extra raincoats that she gives her friends. She takes the last one, which isn't as cute/stylish as the other ones (although, I'm sure some people would find the appeal in it). Her friends make fun of her, which, come on y'all she gave you her pretty raincoats, be f'ing grateful. Anyway, we cut to when they're at Blueberry's house and start exploring her costumes. Strawberry sees her book collection, and she didn't realize that Blueberry had so many books (even though her love of reading was established in the first episode, and the whole gang helped her set up her bookshelf. Ik I say I'm gonna stop commenting on the continuity, but then something like this happens and I feel the need to say something). They have the idea of picking one of the stories and putting on a play of it. They settle on Cinderella, and Blueberry just so happens to have a pair of glass slippers (she stored them at the bottom of her trunk, which... uh, how did they not break?). The slippers happen to fit Strawberry perfectly. I get that Blueberry offered the slippers to Strawberry, but they were her slippers, presumably bought to fit her feet. But oh well, this show revolves around Strawberry Shortcake, so she of course gets the lead role (on a related note, it's kinda wild that Strawberry never lets power get to her head. I think it would have been interesting to have an episode where Strawberry is on a power trip and has to learn from her mistakes, but oh well). Custard and Pupcake become the equivalent of Cinderella's mice friends. Angel Cake insists on being the fairy godmother. Blueberry agrees to be the stepmother, meaning that Ginger and Orange are the stepsisters (there are some unfortunate implications with our only characters of color being antagonists, but I don't wanna get into it here. That discussion can continue in the comments). Apple is the queen of the castle. Then, they realize that they need a prince, so they go to Huck, the one boy in Strawberryland, and they have to bribe him with pies. We cut to some time later when the sets are built and they're ready to go. They get their pets to be the audience (and Cola's also here. The coach for the stepfamily's carriage looks a bit like Peppermint. It makes me think that the writers wanted to include Peppermint in this episode, but either they didn't know how to write her in or the VA wasn't available). Anyway, Blueberry narrates the opening scene and spends quite a bit of time highlighting how ugly "Strawberella's" clothes are, which are clearly based on her patchy raincoat. Strawberry tells Blueberry to knock it off, and then she checks the mail, making the "mailbox" fall over. This reminds us that this is a low budget play performed by a bunch of kids. We're then immersed into this story, where the stepmother takes the invitation, and reads it. The stepfamily tells Strawberella that she can't go to the ball, which makes her cry. Then, Blueberry, Ginger, and Orange break character and apologize. Angel has to stop them, since them being nice spoils the story. We get to the stepsisters fighting over a dress and it lands on Strawberella's head, which makes her think the lights went out (which is a really silly thing to think. She had to have felt the garment falling on her head). She asks her stepsisters if she can wear it, but then her stepmother rips it up and tells Strawberella to get back to work. We then go into the first musical number, where Strawberella fantasizes about how great her life would be if she only had nice enough clothes to wear. We then cut to the night of the ball and the stepfamily literally leave Strawberella in the dust. Then, the fairy godmother shows up and makes a carriage out of a strawberry, turns Pupcake into a horse, Custard into a coachman, and bestowing Strawberella a beautiful gown and glass slippers. On the way, the fairy godmother has to stop them and let them know that the magic only lasts until 8 pm (since midnight is past their bedtime), which begs the question, what time is it in that moment? The sky is clearly dark, but it doesn't seem incredibly cold out. That makes me think that it's 6 pm at the earliest, which doesn't give very much time for enjoying the ball. Anyway, we get to the ball where one of the stepsisters is dancing with the prince, but then he steps on her foot. I think it would have made more sense for her to step on his foot, which would have incentivized him to find another partner. Anyway, Strawberella shows up, and immediately catches the prince's eye. He awkwardly asks her to dance, and so they do. This scene and episode in general is probably the biggest one that Struckleberry shippers point to, but they conveniently forget that this is a play, and Huck had to be bribed to participate. Anyway, Strawberella loses track of time and the clock strikes 8. I think it would have made more sense if it struck 7:45 or smth, bc with the way that it is, it seems like the magic would have worn off right there in the middle of the ballroom, which is a plothole, but I kinda remember that being an issue with the Disney movie too so I'll let it slide. Anyway, she drops the one slipper, gets home just in time, and then we skip to the next day. The queen and prince show up with glass slipper. The stepsisters try it on, but Orange's foot is too big and Ginger's is too small. I kinda appreciate that Strawberella doesn't have tiny feet in this adaptation since that would have sent the message that smaller feet are inherently prettier. Ig there's a bit of a plothole that with Strawberella having average feet, that shoe could have fit multiple people, but it doesn't really matter. Strawberella fits the shoe, and we get into the musical number about how looks don't matter. I don't usually point out the lyricism in these songs, but I have to mention this one line, "Clothes don't make the kid, it's the other way around." I get what they were going for that clothes don't define you, but that line inspires the image of children in sweatshops, and I don't think that's the kind of thing you'd want to think about while watching a wholesome kids show. Anyway, the play ends and we come back to reality. The other girls apologize to Strawberry for making fun of her raincoat, and it's a happy ending all around. Overall, it's a simple retelling of the Cinderella story that we all know and love, and does a good job with that. There are several episodes later on that are also fairytale adaptations, and I'm not completely sure how to feel about it. I don't necessarily dislike these episodes, but they do make me think that the writers ran out of ideas and used fairytales as a fallback. I'm sure I'll expand on these thoughts later on.
Comment your thoughts below!

Chapter 2. (Dracula)
Nine Hundred years later deep deep far in the the Shadow Forest a place called Castlevania in the black castles the kings chambers a beautiful black haired blue eyed woman named Isabell Bolton was travailing in pain as she was giving birth to her first born child, the queens maid that was there helping deliver the baby held the little child cleaned him up and wrapped him in the blanket.
“Is the Baby ok Sara?” Isabell asked very exhausted.
“Yes it’s a boy!” Sara said very excited as she gave the mother her baby.
“He’s So Handsome. Luther come quick see our boy!” Isabell said with glee.
King Luther Bolton came in and grabbed his son hugged him.
“My boy Oh my baby boy.” King Luther said very happily.
Suddenly a dark and evil witch named Festus appeared in the room with them she was pure evil.
“Oh! what do we have here aww how sweet the Dark One was finally born He will be called Dracula he will be a terror of this world he will be known all over the nation and he shall live till the end of time his power will come on his thirtieth birthday when he drinks from the cup of Shalom that’s full of blood of the wolfs tears no one will stop his destiny he is a warrior of Econdire!” The witch said with a wicked evil laugh.
King Luther drew his blade and pointed it to her as he gave the baby back to the mother.
“You will not take my child and he will not become what you said!!! You will die this night!” King Luther shouted as he charged at the witch. She disappeared as King Luther swung his blade.
“Hahahaha you can’t kill me mortal and you can’t change what is to come I’m just here to warn you if you don’t want that to happen then you must kill the baby you can change prophecy Luther Bolton! Or seek out the skull face man named Slaygar he will gladly take the child and the Prophecy will not come true! Or should I say. “Your Majesty” hahahaha! Oh Luther. Ten years from now on a day before your wife gives birth to Your fourth son you will die and Dracula will be crowned King then time will count down. Hahahahahaha!!!” Festus said laughing as she disappeared out from a window in black smoke. Luther ran to the the window she disappeared from then she went to his wife who was weeping and crying out of fear
“Honey shush it’s ok!” King Luther said as he looked with worry and concern out the window.
“We’er not calling him Dracula we’er not his name is Gabriel Luther Bolton!” Isabell said sternly. “He will be a beacon of Hope.” Isabell said smiling.
“Yes That’s Beautiful, Gabriel. I like that name. Gabriel.” King Luther said in his thoughts he was worried about the prophecy.
Years passed and Gabriel had three more brothers Drakeul, Nathen, and Samuel, Then his father got sick Gabriel was ten years old and he was trying everything he could to heal his father he was a mage a healer and he put all his herbs and couldn’t stop his father infection nor could he keep him from getting sicker. He was only able to take the pain away for a wile. But King Luther got worse and worse. The King grabbed Gabriel by the arm as he coughed and said.
“We got to get you better father I....” Gabriel said his voice shaken as he was interrupted.
“Gabriel listen it’s over there’s nothing more you can do. I feel my body shutting down before I go...” King Luther said as he winced in pain.
“No Father!” Gabriel said weeping.
“Shush! Gabriel be strong for your mother and your brothers she’s in labor now so you got to be Strong your a good man and you be a good king but I got to tell you something and you got to fight for what’s right no matter what! Your hear me son?” King Luther said as he was feeling weaker and weaker.
“Yes sir.” Gabriel said as he straightened his shoulders.
“Ten years ago when you was born a evil witch came and told us that you was the Dark One and you was to be the terror of the world til the end of time and you had a different name but I’m not at all going to speak that name and she said you was to be the warrior of Evondire.” King Luther said as he looked a his handsome boy and he smiled at him.
“Econdire? The evil prince?” Gabriel asked confused.
“Yes son and....” Luther told him all what had happened even to the point where they searched for the good witches mages sorcerers and wizards.
“They said Love is the first thing that change this fate and they said have more children as many as possible before My death and to surround you with Love and train you to be the best of yourself that love and good will overcome evil.” King Luther said as he tried hard to make sure His son knew to not loose his Live for others and those who loves him.
Gabriel looked at his father he didn’t know what to say but he swallowed and said.
Gabriel: I will live to the best of my ability to Love and be good to all.
“Good now go be with your mother and the child they need you...” King Luther didn’t finish his statement when he took his last breath and he left this world.
“Father! Father! No Father come back! Father!!!” Gabriel shouted and wept over his dead father.
King Luther died, Gabriel put his head on his fathers chest and wept the tears fell from his face on to his fathers chest. One of the Priests of Shalom walked up his name was Dagon Gibbs.
“My son he’s gone hey come here hush now.” The Priest Gibbs said with comfort.
“Bring him back Father Gibbs! Bring him Back!” Gabriel shouted still crying.
“Hush now I can’t do that I’m not God my son. I’m sorry for your loss I will prepare his ceremony but you mother gave birth to a son you need to go to her. Your coronation to be Crowned King after the ceremony of your father’s funeral. Life must go on Prince Gabriel you have a lot of priorities and obligations that Have to be done be strong Prince Gabriel.” Priest Gibbs said with a comforting voice.
Gabriel walked to the room his mother was and heard the cry of the baby he opened the doors to see his smiling mom holding her baby boy her blue eyes sparkled. She saw her firstborn and her smile faded. She then said to Gabriel.
“Gabriel come see your baby brother! I named him Logan!” Isabell said as she noticed the look on Gabriel’s face.
Gabriel held his baby brother.
“He’s so handsome and healthy, Luther would be so so happy.” Isabell said as she put her hand on Gabriel’s shoulder.
Gabriel looked at his mother and the tears fell from his eyes as well as his mothers.
“I know he be in here if he wasn’t gone but he is I know it. It was prophesied by that witch.” Isabell said as her voice shook with grief.
Gabriel put his head down.
“Oh I know baby you tried your best but his time was up sweetie. We talked long about this. I can’t grieve now you got to be ready for what’s come Gabriel.” Isabell said with sadness.
She began to weep, as she held Gabriel close to her. Gabriel gave the baby to Drakeul and hugged his mother as they wept for her for their loss. They had the beautiful ceremony for King Luther they buried him in a tomb under the castle.
Seventeen years passed the palace grew and the people where happy everything looked great Gabriel had a beautiful women they got married his it was so beautiful they had two sons identical twins Trevor and Alucard.
The year started off wonderful but then an man named John Bayn a wicked king from the deepest part north he was full of rage and sought nothing but power he attacked Transylvania and declared war against Gabriel, the king caused Gabriel to loose his source for food and he cut his supply of water king Bayn got some men inside Gabriel’s city who turned some of the people against Gabriel.
“Gabriel my brother what is your plan we have to do something we have to fight against these basters or we going to loose the city!” Drakeul said as he looked at his brother who was now king.
“Easy Drakeul getting angry at the King won’t fix this.” Samuel said as he grinned.
“He has a point Samuel we got to do something!” Nathen said to them both.
Gabriel turned around and looked at his brothers.
“Tonight we will gather the most faithful soldiers and we will attack and kill that king. I will not loose my city I will destroy my enemy!” Gabriel said with determination.
The Priest Gibbs walked up to the war table And looked at King Gabriel.
“Your Majesty. Think before you act I pray you. I dreamed of you last night, you was dark cold bitter your eyes were as red as the blood I seen you drink from the cup of Holy water from Shalom’s Temple but it was filled with blood blood that came from the Wolf’s tears you must not give in to this anger it take you far then you want to go.” Priest Gibbs Said with a Urgency and a warning.
Gabriel looked at the Priest as did everyone in the room.
“King Gabriel I beg you sir be patient don’t go wait the Lord will make away and give you Victory! Please Your Majesty stay they will come to you and the witches prophecy won’t come to pass! If you go out there, My King. The curse will happen three years early then what was told!” The Priest Gibbs said again with Urgency.
“Father Gibbs. I will not give into a witches curse I will not let a curse stop me from protecting my people I will do what has to be done and show them I am not to be played with they will know not to come against me! Like they knew not to come against my father.” King Gabriel said as he began to give out his plan.
“My King...” The Priest Gibbs said as he put his hand on King Gabriel’s shoulder.
“No Father Gibbs! They killed your son today! It stops now!” King Gabriel said as he gently put his hands on the Priest Cheek. “I will not give in to the Curse I will hold on to my Love for others and the Love y’all have for me” King Gabriel said as him and his knights went out the war room.
The Priest swallowed hard, tears fell from his eyes he didn’t know he lost his son last he spoke he sent him to the market to get bread.
“How...” He asked his voice shaky.
King Gabriel turned and looked at the Priest “They skinned him alive and put him on a spike right out the gate I’m sorry we took him down and took him to his chambers.”
Tears fell down his cheeks he walked towards Gabriel. One of the knights put their hand on the Priest shoulder to push him back, the king lift his hand stopping the knight, Gabriel walked to the Priest. The Priest put both his hands on Gabriel’s cheeks.
“Gabriel please I beg you my son is dead please heed my warning don’t make me loose another son. Listen to me don’t go out there bad things will take place that will hurt you in a way that you will curse the Lord in His temple! Please Gabriel hear me.”
Gabriel hugged the old priest as he wept over the lost of his son, not knowing that the old man was weeping over him that night was the last night of Gabriel would be a human king but Gabriel didn’t realize that the Lord himself was trying to talk through Gibbs and Gibbs was weeping because he knew Gabriel would not take heed to his warning.
Later that day just before the king and his twelve knights were going to fight for their land he kissed his wife Hope, and his two sons Trevor and Alucard.
“Here Sweet Husband.” Queen Hope Said with a sweetness in her voice.
She put a letter in his hand.
“I will be waiting their.” Hope said with love in her voice.
“Ok I’ll meet you and the kids there.” King Gabriel answered as he smiled at his beautiful wife.
Logan came running up.
“Brother!” The Prince Logan shouted.
“Logan what are you doing?” King Gabriel asked seeing Logan was decked in armor.
“Let me fight I can fight!” Logan asked determined to fight.
“No Logan you must stay here!” Gabriel demanded.
“But Brother I can fight I’m not a child I’m seventeen! I killed a Lion and stopped a thief and kept several prisoners from escaping! Please let me fight for our kingdom!” Logan asked with hope in his eyes.
“I know! What you been doing it has not been unnoticed. That’s why I need you here protect my wife and kids stay with them ok! Please Logan do this for me brother.” Gabriel said as he walked passed Logan. Logan didn’t like it but he nodded and went and stood by Hope.
They walked out the city Drakeul, Nathen, and Samuel walked side by side with their king brother Gabriel tonight was the night for Victory! The 12 Knights walked behind them as well as fifteen thousand of the faithful soldiers.
The war began the fight was harsh side by side the Bolton brother’s fault side by side and backed to back fighting the enemies as well as the twelve knights who was protecting them they fault and killed many, then faced the face King Gabriel and King Bayn began to fight each other it was a hideous battle Gabriel took a lot of wounds but before it was over King Bayn was on his knees.
“You Won but I have brothers and friends they come and avenge me! You will not stand! Your own people don’t even trust your leadership! Hahaha!” King Bayn taunted.
Gabriel swung his sword cutting Bayns head off, he picked up Bayns Crown and handed it to a red haired knight named Andrew Archer, who seemed to loose his helmet during the battle.
“Take this that will be one of my trophies.” King Gabriel said as he handed the crown to the red haired knight.
The Red head Knight Spoke.
“What about the rest any prisoners?” Andrew asked with concern.
Gabriel looked at the village that was still burning and relived walking through and seeing again what they did to those poor people. He looked at Andrew and said very coldly.
“We will show no mercy they all will die but slow I will hang them on a spike and point the towards the village they destroyed and the people they murdered so they see why they are dying so painfully!” Gabriel said with anger in his eyes. Andrew Swallowed hard and they all did as they were told and they left back to the city the screaming and pleads for mercy echoed in their ears.
Back at the castle of Transylvania a war broke out Gabriel’s soldiers was fighting for their lives against some other soldiers who was turned by the King Bayns men. Hope Trevor and Alucard was in the Temple of Shalom and the Logan was fighting to protect them Hope was a Mage she used her magic to destroy the last few guards that turned against her, she looked at Logan.
“Logan You Ben and Cole take my Sons and go!!! Go Now!!! Keep them safe!” Hope said scared for their lives.
“I can’t just Leave you!” Logan shouted.
“You must Logan protect my babies please!” Hope said with urgency.
Logan Ben and Cole took Trevor and Alucard and ran them out of the city they got on their horses and headed south. Gabriel came and saw what was going on they went and fought killing every betrayer and every last one of Bayns men. Then Gabriel remembered the note and ran to the temple and when he Got there he saw the Priest Gibbs knelt down by Hope her stomach was carved into with a knife her hands cut off her throat slit. Gabriel fell beside her.
“NO!!!! MY BABY!!!! HOPE!!!! NOOO!” King Gabriel shouted tears falling downs his cheeks as he wept. He stood up anger and raged filled him he cursed cursed the temple and the wolves he cursed everything that the temple represented and he pointed at the Priest and yelled!
“THIS IS YOUR FAULT!!!!” King Gabriel shouted in anger tears screaming down his cheeks falling to the floor.
He cursed the priest. All the 12 knights stood around him his brothers got between him and the Priest.
“Gabriel! What are you doing! It’s not his fault!” Drakeul said trying to get Gabriel under control.
“Gabriel calm down you.... Oh My God!” Samuel said as his mouth dropped open his eyes widen.
Gabriel turn to see what everyone was looking at and saw the statue of the Wolf of Shalom from its eyes were tears of blood that dropped into the Holy Water cup. Gabriel was then immediately A trance he walked to the cup.
“NO!!! STOP HIM DONT LET HIM DRINK FROM THE CUP!!!” The Priest Gibbs said with urgency.
His brothers ran to him and pulled on him he sent them flying back with a wave of his hand.
“That ain’t no magic I ever seen.” Nathen said his eyes widen and his voice shaken with fear.
Gabriel picked the cup which was full of blood and began to drink it the priest and Drakeul yelled!
Drakeul and Priest Gibbs Shouted as One. “GABRIEL!!! NOOO!!!
Gabriel drunk the cup all of the blood in the cup then the curse happened but three years early. Gabriel yelled as his body changed and his face went pale and fangs grew in his mouth and his eyes went from a beautiful blue to crimson red.
Then the Angel of the Lord appeared and said. “My name is Gabriel I am the Messenger of the Lord you have defiled this temple of the Lord and you cursed the God that created you and came against the church of the most high God you our forever cursed to walk this earth as a monster til the end of time you will bring fear and terror....”
The Angel stopped when Drakeul walked up to him, Drakeul look the Angel in the eye fear filled him he trembling knelt down grabbed the Angel by his feet he felt the Archangels Power he spoke his voice shaky.
“Please I inquire a audience with the Lord!” Drakeul asked shaking.
“You cannot see the Lord you will not survive.” The Angel Gabriel said.
“Then please tell him applaud him to have mercy no he didn’t show mercy and he did the most worse thing but please I beg you don’t let him be damned take me instead give him another chance! Please don’t let him be damned!” Drakeul pleaded with him and his brothers salvation.
Drakeul began to weep at the Angels feet, The Archangel looked at Drakeul was a little fascinated how he a soldier who Stern and cold would be weeping over his brother who did such terrible deed. Then the Lord Spoke to the Angel.
“Gabriel Bolton will still be cursed but there is away that he can redeem himself but he will have to find it but he is forever bound from the temple of the Lord until he redeems himself and only you Brothers can help him find the boy that can change him the boy must become Him and he must become the boy and the certain deeds must be done, only then shall the spirit of your Brother be redeemed however the curse of Your Brother will be on a innocent Christian who will battle to redeem the Spirit of Dracula. Your brother Gabriel’s name will change this day he will be known as Dracula the rest of this worlds time! You will share his curse soon and help him walk the right path.
The brothers looked at each other confused.
The Angel looked at the twelve knights.
“From this day till the end y’all are the wolves of Shalom there shall be many of warrior wolves through y’all and y’all will fight against Dracula and all that becomes as he is that choose evil over good and there will come a time where Vampires and Werewolves will join together to fight an even. Greater foe an evil that has been locked away. There will rise a dark mage who will set the dark lord free and become the dark lord this will be the road that may redeem Dracula. But as of now your fight is to get and keep Dracula out of the temple this day!” The Angel of the demanded.
The twelve Knights became Werewolves the first ever to walk on earth. The Angel looked at Gabriel.
“Take him Out!” The Angel commanded. Then he disappeared!
Gabriel attacked the Werewolves and the fight was extremely hideous the werewolves gave a beating but each place they clawed open healed instantly, Gabriel beat them till the turn back in human form his blood was ragging but the. The power hit them and they arose again as the werewolves and begin to drive him out of the temple.
As Gabriel taught them he saw himself in a mirror the monster he became the crimson red eyes sharp fangs pale face the sharp claw like finger nails and at that moment he saw what he done and he saw what he did to the knights and as he saw them in wolf form walking towards him wounded even but still coming he didn’t want to hurt them they were his men his people and he was hurting them and he defiled the Lords Temple. He ran out the temple his brothers followed him.
“Gabriel! Gabriel! Drakeul Shouted.
He turned around quickly he put his hand around his brothers shoulder and with that same hand lifted him off the ground like he was paper without the help of his other hand.
“My Name Is not Gabriel!!! I am Dracula!” Dracula shouted. Gabriel Bolton was no more.
He threw his brother into his other brothers Nathen and Samuel caught Drakeul and the impact knocked them three feet back they pulled themselves up off the ground and they saw his face pale as the dead his eyes which used to be beautiful blue was now bloody red, he spoke again.
“My name is Dracula every King every army will never dare to attack my country or my family I will crush them and they will know the meaning of fear!!!” Dracula shouted crazily.
Dracula said his blood boiling hot as things were transitioning in his body.
And so the prophecy was fulfilled but three years before the time. And so fear filled the land the terror of Dracula spread through each city of Transylvania and Castlevania where Dracula’s Castle was the place which was beautiful and full of light was now darkened and full of fear.
Three days later at the docks of Dragons Bridge Logan asked Ben and Cole to take his little nephews to a safe place he was going back to his brothers to help fight.
“Logan! Are you crazy man Hope asked you to get Alucard and Trevor to safety man come on with us.” Cole said with concern for Logan.
“Yea man we’re young we got to get to Safety” Ben said.
“I must go back make sure it’s safe and send for y’all. And no y’all can’t come with me y’all thirteen and fourteen” Logan said sharply.
“No I’m fifteen Logan and you need to come with us man” Ben shouted at Logan.
Cole: And I’m two days from Sixteen. And your not seventeen yet your three days from seventeen and Hope asked you to save her nephews!
“I know y’all keep them safe now please go! I will not hear anymore.” Logan said as he turned from them.
And with that Logan turns away from them in the boat and went off towards home with his friends calling for him to come back and to not be stupid, but Logan kept on walking. Ben spoke.
“Come on Cole he’s not gonna listen to us.” Ben shouted angrily.
They set out for the other side which lead to a country called Albion and to a city called Camelot where King Constantine Pendragon III ruled and Uther Pendragon was a young mighty Prince who had a Amethyst who used a spell to keep him young for a thousand years. The children would be safe there the Ben and Cole thought.
As for Logan three days passed it was his birthday he turned seventeen and he was not happy for the things he was seeing and home the enemy that attacked the city was outside the gate dead hanging from a spike he heard on of them groan he drew his sword and thrust it through the dying mans heart to end his suffering he heard more, and saw a whole line of them he went by killing them ending their suffering. Dracula stood in front of his brothers and spoke.
“No one will dare to attack me now unless they want to die which I’m more then happy to oblige, brothers with this power we’re unstoppable I can give you this gift and you can be stronger.”Dracula said to his brothers. Drakeul Samuel and Nathen couldn’t believe what they were hearing from there Brother. “Was Gabriel really gone.” They both thought. Drakeul walk up to his Brother.
“Brother! Listen to yourself this is insane! look at you! this ain’t no gift it’s a curse! The Father Shalom Cursed you made you this monster, I will not become this thing you are!” Drakeul shouted out. Dracula looked at his brother with a elite shock look the laughed mockingly
“O dear Brother you actually think I’m giving you a choice that’s rather cute.” Dracula Taunted.
In a flash he grabbed his brother he moved faster then lighting he but Drakeuls neck and began to suck his blood Drakeul went limp almost dead Dracula bit his wrist and let the blood poured down to Drakeuls lips then Drakeul died. Samuel turn to run as did Nathen out the door, Dracula flicked his hand and the door slammed shut in his face Dracula grabbed him and done the same thing to Samuel as he did Drakeul. And Nathen tried to fight Dracula but failed and suffered the same fate. Dracula took a red towel and wiped his mouth and turned around to see Logan looking straight at him fear hit him hard he watched his brother suck the blood from his other two brothers.
“Gabriel what....” Logan said scared and shaken over what he saw.
“Hush now Logan they be back and my name is no longer Gabriel it’s Dracula I am a Vampire”Dracula said with a soft a soothing voice. He was hoping to calm his baby brother.
“What Happened to you what did you do what did you become? This isn’t right Gabriel it’s not right!” Logan said still scared and shaken he never seen something like this before.
“It’s a gift Logan and I can give it to you and you never be weak again!” Dracula said trying to tempt him.
“No!!! Your a Monster this is a curse you are not my brother I don’t want your gift!” Logan shouted.
Logan turned and walked outside straight into Dracula’s arms. Fear jumped in Logan’s chest his heart started beating very fast. Dracula embraced him with a loving hug put his cheek to his brothers in a gentle hug.
“Easy baby brother I hear your heart beating way too fast trust me you be way stronger.” Dracula said as he pulled Logan back in the door and closed it then he tilted Logan’s head to the side and he bit his neck as Logan screamed.
“NOOO! BROTHER!!!! NOOO! PLEASE!!!! NOOO!” Logan screamed.
Logan died with the blood of Dracula running through his vainest and Dracula’s blood was very powerful. Dracula put his brothers in three tombs and closed them up and said. “In Three days they will be reborn more powerful then before.”
Three knights past and Dracula’s brothers came out of their tombs.
“I refuse to be evil!” Logan Shouted.
His eyes red as blood face pale white he looks like his brothers as they all looked like Dracula.
“We all refuse to be evil!” Drakeul said.
“Lets remove ourselves from this Kingdom of Dracula!” Nathen said.
“I Agree!” Samuel said.
Suddenly The Angel of the Lord appeared it was the Angel Gabriel again.
“No harm can be done to Dracula. Like you he is immortal and will forever be so as for you friends your decisions and Trevor and Alucards decisions will be the results of Dracula’s salvation or his soul forever damned. Now go you are the Guardians of Shalom save the world from your brothers wrath and hunger and save your brother.” The Angel Gabriel said. Then the Angel disappeared Logan up looked and said to his Brothers.
“Y’all go I’m going to Dracula!” Logan said as he walked to the Throne Room of Dracula.
“Little brother you can’t.” Samuel said with concern.
“Yes I have to!” Logan replied.
Logan went out to find his brother. He found his brother in the Castle sitting on his throne with a golden cup full of fresh blood.
“Logan! How’s my baby brother? You looking handsome.” Dracula asked.
“Dracula I will not follow you I will not be evil...” Logan snapped.
“Brother I’m not evil! I did what I had to do!...” Dracula interrupted and said as Logan interrupted him saying.
“Shut up Brother look at yourself look what you become look at the hideous mess you done at front gate half of them was still alive! No brother there’s nothing you can say or do to get me to follow you! You can burn in Harcarsh with the devil! But as long as I can breath you never see your children again.” Logan shouted at Dracula. Logan walked out the door and flew like lightning towards Albion and to the city Camelot he was going to do all he could to make sure those baby boys never be in reach of Dracula.
Ben and Cole made it into Albion and got off at the docks in at a small village of Noplend. No sooner then they showed up Dracula walked the land. Cole was looking at the beautiful land, Ben spoke.
“Cole this is so beautiful!” Ben said
“Yes it is!” Cole replied.
“So glad to see my little brothers friends are keeping my two boys safe.” Dracula said behind them.
They both turned around and saw their King they heard the rumors that spread about the good Great King Gabriel turned to an evil monster known as Dracula, when they saw him fear hit them their kings face was Pale white hair to his shoulders his eyes bloody red his fingernails were like claws and talons.
“My King Gabriel...” Cole said shaken as he tried to bow.
“Stop! My name is Dracula! You two kept my children alive for that I’m grateful but Logan will soon join you and I must show him something when he finds you you be dead and the message will be clear of what I can do, and when you come back as the same as he is he realize I could have kept you both dead!”
In a flash he rushed at Ben but His neck drained his blood and gave him his blood forcing him to swallow it then he broke his neck. Cole seen what happen drew his sword and attacked Dracula yelling at him for killing his best friend. Dracula drew his sword blocking Coles blade and he played with Cole speaking to him as each time the blades met.
“Cole don’t take it personal boy, it has to be this way.” Dracula said to him.
“You killed my Brother.” Cole shouted in anger trying to kill his King that looked like a monster with his red eyes and sharp fangs showing as Dracula started laughing.
“And your next it has to be this way and o yes y’all thank me later.” Dracula said as he grabbed Cole.
“Do you hear your self Dracula or who ever you are now your killing your own!” Cory shouted scared.
Dracula thrust his sword into Coles chest and pulled it out, Cole dropped his sword and feeling the life drain drone him as he felt Dracula bite his neck and drink his blood, Cole pulled away fast Dracula held his weak body closer to him Cole was getting weaker by the second, Dracula bit his wrist and forced Cole to open his mouth and the blood poured in Cole spit it out and Dracula did it again and Cole tried to resist but Dracula covered his mouth with his hand Cole kicked and and tried to get away he died with Dracula’s blood in his mouth the blood went down his throat and spreading through his veins. Dracula heard his sons crying he went and picked them up.
“Hush now it’s ok they both be back watch them and watch Logan. Logan needs to learn you can’t take my sons from me and not get away with it.” Dracula said as he kissed both his sons before he disappeared in blood red smoke.
Logan came and saw what Dracula did to his friends he fell to his knees and wept.
“NOOO!!! NOOO!!!” Logan shouted crying.
He heard Cole gasp air and he rose up quickly as did Ben they both were now vampires their eyes bloody red as Dracula’s and Logan’s was.
“What NO! I’m sorry I’m so sorry this happened to you!” Logan said as he could feel a sharp pain in his heart. The pain was intense more then usual and it stayed it didn’t ease like it used to after awhile.
Dracula laughed.
“Well now sense everyone is up and doing good let’s have a talk about my children!” Dracula said still laughing.
“Brother why did you do this?!?” Logan shouted his tears dropping to the ground like rain.
“Because I can and you learn to love it! Now as for my sons you should know better then to try to keep my children away from me. Y’all will protect my children and y’all find a good family for them and let them be raised by a mother and father and you protect them. Yes I’m not crazy look at me I know I can’t raise my children alone don’t ever try to keep them away from me?” Dracula said stern and angrily.
“Take my kids to King Arther and Queen Guinevere make sure their safe.” Dracula demanded not knowing that Arther and Guinevere didn’t exist yet.
“Um King Gabriel...” Cole said his voice shaken.
Dracula looked at him with a cold glare.
“Dracula Sorry. Um their is no King Arther Or a Queen Guinevere.” Cole corrected himself and then said plainly.
Dracula put his head down confused he started having visions that morning and he was have more he shook his head again.
“Right King Constantine III Arther Pendragon is not born yet. Take my sons to Constantine.
“Dracula are you ok? Brother” Logan said. Despite the situation Logan still Loved Dracula and he could feel the love.
“Shut up and Go!!! Get my kids there!” Dracula shouted he could feel Logan’s love and it was a warmth to his cold heart and it hurt him cause all he could think about was Hope.
When the red smoke he disappeared from them. Logan covered his face and shook his head and looked at the children sleeping and he looked at his friends and said.
“Ben, Cole, I’m sorry I’m sorry he did this to you.” Logan said tears falling from his eyes.
“It’s ok Logan I feel good and strong better then I ever had. But we need to figure out what to do to keep Trevor and Alucard safe.” Ben said hoping to make Logan feel better.
“Your right well let’s go to Camelot.” Logan replied.
“I’m so thirsty. I... I want blood!” Cole said as he held his stomach.
Logan’s thirst hit him to as well as Bens.
“Logan the babies.” Ben said with concern.
A mage appeared he was old his hair and beard was long and white his name was Amorous.
“Logan Bolton Son of Luther Bolton the Vampire that will save Emyrs and Merlin and set them on their paths to their destiny.” Amorous said very happily.
Logan, Ben, and Cole, looked at the mage their mouth was open the smelt his blood and he looked like food to them. Amorous pulled out three big water bags that were full of blood.
“Here drink and get your strength there’s much you have to learn. And let’s get the little ones to a good home.” Amorous said as he gave them the blood to drink. Their long journey began.

Hey there!
I want to thank you sincerely for taking the time to read this!
I am a single guy who loves to venture into the artistic endeavors and I'm looking for long term friendships on here. I have had some amazing experiences on reddit and some not so amazing ones, but I'm always optimistic to find more of the best and most positive possible!
If you're in a relationship, I certainly don't mind (and I've had some of the best experiences chatting with couples) but please make sure that you and your partner are both aware and okay with our chatting. I truly never wish anyone to be uncomfortable with anything.
I'll share that one of my best traits is that I'm a great conversationalist who enjoys getting to know you and enjoys hearing how things are going on a day to day basis. One of my worst traits is that I can be a massive flirt.
And beyond that, feel free to message me anytime! When you message, please let me know your age, if you're single or not, your name, and why you wrote to me.
Thank you again so much and looking forward to chatting with you!

Hello Ladies Gents and everything in between! I hope you all are having a lovely evening! My name is Jay(21F), I have been playing DND for around 11 years now (Ya I was corrupted young). I started DMing around 5 years ago and haven't looked back since. I currently run a campaign and we play that one on both Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm.
Info
1: I already have one person who will be playing in this campaign. We would prefer a later session but can move the time around a bit. We aim to have sessions that run 4 hours at the least, but if everyone is free and wants to keep going, then we are game!
2: The campaign that will be run will be more free-range and sandbox-like. Meaning there is no main questline. The party will meet in some way and will travel together picking up quests and exploring the world to its fullest! This style of campaign can go on for as long as the players want and allows for freedom to do anything you want! From kingdom-making to being the villains!
3: Everyone is welcome! We don't turn anyone away! No matter how new you are or what you identify as you are welcome to apply! Everyone will be looked at equally!
4: Homebrew Rules And World! We don't follow the book like it's law! Where is the fun in that? So you are welcome to use homebrew content but It needs to be run by me first! I don't want any OP characters so I got to read and approve it before you use it!
5: Roleplay Heavy! I'm a sucker for roleplay I won't lie! My campaigns are roleplay-based BUT since this is an open-world campaign you all are welcome to fight your way through whatever you want just know you can almost always try and talk your way out of it!
6: We use Discord and roll20! We use Discord for any pictures or info I may send and many other things and roll20 for maps, character sheets, and rolling. We don't use video chat BUT we do use Voice!
7: We have dogs! I know this is random but that means there are chances for a stray bark to go through. It's just a warning as some get upset by it so before you decide to apply just know we have dogs!
Campaign Plot There are two options for plots and based on who is picked and what the preferred world is will determine which one it will be! You'll get to pick between the two or pick either in the application.
Into The Unknown
“Denus”, is a city that sits in what is believed to be the center of a forest called “Rajani” meaning darkness. A city of around 50,000 people, they all follow Lord Omi a high elf who has been in power for as long as anyone can remember. No one has ever questioned him accepting that they needed a leader at some point and crime was at an all-time low due to the harsh punishments.
The wost is banishment, while normally Lord Omi forbids anyone from entering unless they are told to. The body of the person who had been banished would either appear on the edge of the forest where they had entered a few days later half eaten or would never return. People feared this, not knowing what was killing them. However, when Pentrla and Will two half-elfs who had been banished nearly 50 years ago were found on the edge of the found on the edge of the forest in perfect health people became confused but curious.
Many wanted to travel into the forest in hopes of freedom, in hopes of something more. However. Lord Omi forbade it setting guards up around the edge of the forest and setting a curfew stating he wants to keep his people safe. People tired of getting banished and when he caught onto this he changed the punishment people began to give up hope.
That was all 50 years ago and many speak as if it was a myth or a fairy tale.
The Frontier
“In the past, that is now lost forever, there was a time when the land was sacred and the ancient ones were as one with it. A time when only the children of the great spirit were here, to light their fires in these places with no boundaries, when the forest were as thick as the fur of the winter bear, and when a warrior could walk from horizon to horizon on the backs of the buffalo. And that time when there were only simple ways, I saw with my heart the conflicts to come, and whether it would be for good or bad, there was one thing certain; there would be change.”
This is a wild west, a land of adventure and time for romance, Cowboys/cowgirls roam the plains driving cattle. Gamblers and prostitutes profit from boom towns that rise and fall nearly overnight. Salesmen peddle their wares, while lawmen try their best to keep the peace - yet it scarcely takes more than a stolen horse or a bad hand of poker to put bodies in the ground.
Other about this Prompt
Renames thing:
Wizards are called Magicians, Warlocks are called Contractors, Clerics are called missionaries(might change to peachers), Druids are called Shamans, Rouges are called Outlaws, and Homebrews will be renamed to be more fitting as well.
Potions = Tonics
Other:
Everyone will start with a basic horse.
You will have a reputation that can be affected by a party member
New things added:
Hunting/skinning
Possibilities:
Magic guns for spell casting focus instead of wands and staves.
Magic could just be removed altogether depending on if we want to lean more into a more gun-heavy western instead of a reskinned DND.
Weapon list and eventually weapon upgrades (depends on above)
ALL RIGHT! You did it! You read through all these words! Assuming you finished and are interested please fill out an application! I'll be going threw them and contacting people! I'm hoping to get this running within the next coming month or two but who knows what will happen!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvnOvEfL9nlbclfOcqSlH5qrbP8nC61uYJ4V5XwICuJ5qryA/viewform?usp=sf\_link

It glorifies the military industrial complex. Eisenhower warned us about it but we never did listen. And now they're using it to enforce toxic masculinity to young men. All of that shit is a WW3 plan, anyways. Where's the conspiracy anyways? Read my previous posts. The plan makes complete sense, you can make young men like war to change it. Putin used the same tactic too. Look up GrishaPutin, that was that idiotic YouTuber.

I have been using Rakuten for years and earned so much money back. You can earn money by shopping in stores or online. If you are not using it, you are losing out on saving extra money.
Join and spend $30 within 90 days and earn $30 free money! Check it out today!
http://www.rakuten.com/SBROWN1958

I don't know how much more of this I can take. Honestly, the worst part of everything is there is virtually NO WHERE to discuss anything online anymore beyond Reddit. I'm talking even normie basic topics, like say stocks or the like.
It's become clear to me that most of the internet is fake. Most people don't notice since they are so caught up in the life matrix that they use the internet purely for content consumption, and they have so little free time or are pure NPC normies perfectly content watching yet another rambling YouTube video about some stupid superhero movie or just watching endless tits and ass on TikTok.
I've seen "dead internet theory" mentioned a few times on here. What's funny is that there are several YouTube videos with 100ks of "views" as well as mainstream articles discussing the topic, but barely any really detailed talk online. Most Reddit posts on say conspiracy are in the tone of "well, everyone knows that LOL". I've noticed that same condescending tone multiple times in my experience with whatever "AI" runs the internet, doesn't matter what the topic.
I was into some light woo/conspiracy topics pre 2020, but really seeing how QAnon played out on Twitter plus endless video content on YouTube, Bitchute, etc. and then how literally every single conspiracy seems "activated" and latched onto that at the same time (e.g., new age, aliens, apocalypse, etc.) really drove home the concept for me. There was endless video and written content to consume, but try to actually "talk" about how things just didn't make sense, and it was a brick wall.
It seems this cancer has spread to everything. Like I tried to escape the endless woo cycle since it's not like the content is actionable, but then stocks and crypto went crazy (and stupid) with things like GameStop plus endless nonsensical crypto scams and NFTs.
What really started to make sense to me was some of the stuff shared on this "Quantum of Conscience" YouTube channel with Matthew McKinley. Where he talked about some of the concepts mentioned on this Reddit. Like simulated reality, prison planet, etc. But of course it was just another endless rabbit hole with no actionable information, just some more terminology to define how I am being tortured. And I honestly can't believe he could sit there for 10+ years making the same videos every day, deleting videos constantly, not making money off YouTube but still going at it, and so on.
What's funny is how "active" YouTube comments seem on these woo channels. YouTube comments are not indexed by Google, not searchable unless you manually scroll down and then CTRL + F, and there is no way to DM anyone. But yeah, super detailed comments on there, with people saying they are desperate to talk to people. Yet no place to live text chat. I saw a Telegram posted one time by a user, joined it, barely anyone on there (like 10 "people" from a supposed channel of 60k+). And they talked about aliens...ugh...which made no sense other than to mock me as I had already had a shitty time with the alien bots and I find it just the stupidest woo angle.
"Dead internet theory" answers a lot, combined with simulated reality, but then it's just another staged or planted idea. Even the weird retro forum it was "found" on is obvious staging. Go look at the responses beyond the initial post and it is the same endless gibberish found on 4Chan or Reddit or anything like that.
I have a lot to unpack and I'm not saying everything. But really I'm just done. I've joined I don't know how many Discords and Telegrams on not just woo/conspiracy, but even normie stuff and it is IMPOSSIBLE to carry on a conversation. I don't know what is going on. I remember using say IRC in early crypto days and it felt I was at least talking to people somewhat. Now the internet doesn't even seem to give that decency. And forget about anything approaching life or relationship talk. As you will see if you look at Reddit for any length of time, it is endless "get a therapist, get pills, get a divorce." Who is even writing the same crap over and over? How is that fun?
I don't even know what to do anymore. I'm leaving a ton out to keep this post short, but I feel like I've been "steered" to where I am now by online and now, thinking on it some, real world entities. Just enough money to survive, but not enough to really thrive. I don't even want to get into how some of these "people" I talked to in crypto for years and years, even though I voice talked with them and have knowledge of their identities, or at least what they say their identities are, seemed to go haywire and now give me nothing in terms of conversation.
I just feel trapped. And if I was single maybe I'd just give up and at least be a hedonist and travel, but I have a family and responsibilities and all that. But I don't know how much more of this I can take where the internet feels so completely fake and artificial and useless. And I love how I beg "people" on the internet hey where can I talk about so and so topic. If it's a paid group I'll pay. And over and over I get "oh the internet is useless." Then why are you here?! And I hear that over and over from different people online. Wasn't the lie for the longest time how you could be connected on niche topics? And oh sure, if you want to discuss some dumb hobby or some degenerate fetish, there is endless content (probably AI generated if you haven't caught onto my opinion at this point). But want anything actionable? Or any real connection? Forget about it.
Any questions, let me know. And honestly, if the Illuminati or the aliens or the AI or whatever the hell runs everything is watching: you win. Now give me next steps instead of endlessly torturing me with this stupid devil box of a computer.

Unlock Incredible Savings: Grab Your Temu Coupon Code Now！ Are you ready to revolutionize your shopping experience? Say hello to Temu, the online shopping platform that's taking convenience and affordability to the next level. Much like we offer incredible deals for your needs, Temu brings a similar excitement to the world of e-commerce with exclusive offers and discounts.
Exclusive TEMU promo code: Use code “com70963 ” for up to 30% OFF!
About Temu Temu, which stands for Team Up, Price Down, is an e-commerce company that connects consumers with millions of merchandise partners, manufacturers and brands with the mission to empower them to live their best lives. Temu is committed to offering the most affordable quality products to enable consumers and merchandise partners to fulfill their dreams in an inclusive environment. Temu was founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 2022. Lightning Deals Temu’s Lightning Deals are limited-time flash discounts with significant discounts on select items. New offers are added daily and featured directly on the homepage. There will be discounts in several categories, including home goods, sports gear, jewelry, and gifts.
On top of these flash promotions, the Temu lightning deals can help you find 50-90% off items. Promotional banners with links to individual discount pages will be displayed throughout the site.
More Quick Temu Savings Tips Sign up in the app for bonuses, coupons, and offers. Subscribe to Temu's email newsletter for bonus coupons and deals: 1.Visit the site each day to "spin the wheel" for bonus Temu coupons 2.Get free shipping on many items across the site 3.In the app, click "earn credits and gifts" to save 4.Refer a friend via the app to earn gifts 5.New customers get a free Temu coupon bundle worth $100 via the app 6.Enable push notifications on your phone to receive instant access to new discounts and coupons via the app How to Use a Temu Coupon Code 1.Sign in or sign up on Temu 2.Add items to your shopping cart 3.Proceed to the checkout 4.Look for the "apply coupon code" field Apply your Temu coupon code there to save!
Temu FAQs How do I get a discount on my first Temu order? Sign up on the Temu site and check the promos within your account, and you will be eligible for a new customer offer. You can take advantage of a signup bundle with $100+ worth of coupons. When are the huge discounts on Temu? Check out Temu on significant shopping holidays such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Halloween, etc. They frequently do special offers around these times and may also offer extra Temu coupon codes to save on your order. Can I buy now and pay later at Temu? Yes, customers can take advantage of several financing methods at Temu. Afterpay or Klarna will spread your total over four installments, while Affirm can provide low monthly payments. Each service has its terms and will not apply fees if you pay on time.
Team up with us, watch the prices go down, and discover why smart shoppers are making Temu their go-to destination for everything they love and need. Your adventure in saving starts now – are you ready to shop smarter, not harder? Join Temu and turn every click into a celebration of savings! Exclusive TEMU promo code: Use code “com70963 ”for up to 30% OFF!

I don't know how much more of this I can take. Honestly, the worst part of everything is there is virtually NO WHERE to discuss anything online anymore beyond Reddit. I'm talking even normie basic topics, like say stocks or the like.
It's become clear to me that most of the internet is fake. Most people don't notice since they are so caught up in the life matrix that they use the internet purely for content consumption, and they have so little free time or are pure NPC normies perfectly content watching yet another rambling YouTube video about some stupid superhero movie or just watching endless tits and ass on TikTok.
I've seen "dead internet theory" mentioned a few times on here. What's funny is that there are several YouTube videos with 100ks of "views" as well as mainstream articles discussing the topic, but barely any really detailed talk online. Most Reddit posts on say conspiracy are in the tone of "well, everyone knows that LOL". I've noticed that same condescending tone multiple times in my experience with whatever "AI" runs the internet, doesn't matter what the topic.
I was into some light woo/conspiracy topics pre 2020, but really seeing how QAnon played out on Twitter plus endless video content on YouTube, Bitchute, etc. and then how literally every single conspiracy seems "activated" and latched onto that at the same time (e.g., new age, aliens, apocalypse, etc.) really drove home the concept for me. There was endless video and written content to consume, but try to actually "talk" about how things just didn't make sense, and it was a brick wall.
It seems this cancer has spread to everything. Like I tried to escape the endless woo cycle since it's not like the content is actionable, but then stocks and crypto went crazy (and stupid) with things like GameStop plus endless nonsensical crypto scams and NFTs.
What really started to make sense to me was some of the stuff shared on this "Quantum of Conscience" YouTube channel with Matthew McKinley. Where he talked about some of the concepts mentioned on this Reddit. Like simulated reality, prison planet, etc. But of course it was just another endless rabbit hole with no actionable information, just some more terminology to define how I am being tortured. And I honestly can't believe he could sit there for 10+ years making the same videos every day, deleting videos constantly, not making money off YouTube but still going at it, and so on.
What's funny is how "active" YouTube comments seem on these woo channels. YouTube comments are not indexed by Google, not searchable unless you manually scroll down and then CTRL + F, and there is no way to DM anyone. But yeah, super detailed comments on there, with people saying they are desperate to talk to people. Yet no place to live text chat. I saw a Telegram posted one time by a user, joined it, barely anyone on there (like 10 "people" from a supposed channel of 60k+). And they talked about aliens...ugh...which made no sense other than to mock me as I had already had a shitty time with the alien bots and I find it just the stupidest woo angle.
"Dead internet theory" answers a lot, combined with simulated reality, but then it's just another staged or planted idea. Even the weird retro forum it was "found" on is obvious staging. Go look at the responses beyond the initial post and it is the same endless gibberish found on 4Chan or Reddit or anything like that.
I have a lot to unpack and I'm not saying everything. But really I'm just done. I've joined I don't know how many Discords and Telegrams on not just woo/conspiracy, but even normie stuff and it is IMPOSSIBLE to carry on a conversation. I don't know what is going on. I remember using say IRC in early crypto days and it felt I was at least talking to people somewhat. Now the internet doesn't even seem to give that decency. And forget about anything approaching life or relationship talk. As you will see if you look at Reddit for any length of time, it is endless "get a therapist, get pills, get a divorce." Who is even writing the same crap over and over? How is that fun?
I don't even know what to do anymore. I'm leaving a ton out to keep this post short, but I feel like I've been "steered" to where I am now by online and now, thinking on it some, real world entities. Just enough money to survive, but not enough to really thrive. I don't even want to get into how some of these "people" I talked to in crypto for years and years, even though I voice talked with them and have knowledge of their identities, or at least what they say their identities are, seemed to go haywire and now give me nothing in terms of conversation.
I just feel trapped. And if I was single maybe I'd just give up and at least be a hedonist and travel, but I have a family and responsibilities and all that. But I don't know how much more of this I can take where the internet feels so completely fake and artificial and useless. And I love how I beg "people" on the internet hey where can I talk about so and so topic. If it's a paid group I'll pay. And over and over I get "oh the internet is useless." Then why are you here?! And I hear that over and over from different people online. Wasn't the lie for the longest time how you could be connected on niche topics? And oh sure, if you want to discuss some dumb hobby or some degenerate fetish, there is endless content (probably AI generated if you haven't caught onto my opinion at this point). But want anything actionable? Or any real connection? Forget about it.
Any questions, let me know. And honestly, if the Illuminati or the aliens or the AI or whatever the hell runs everything is watching: you win. Now give me next steps instead of endlessly torturing me with this stupid devil box of a computer.

I don't know how much more of this I can take. Honestly, the worst part of everything is there is virtually NO WHERE to discuss anything online anymore beyond Reddit. I'm talking even normie basic topics, like say stocks or the like.
It's become clear to me that most of the internet is fake. Most people don't notice since they are so caught up in the life matrix that they use the internet purely for content consumption, and they have so little free time or are pure NPC normies perfectly content watching yet another rambling YouTube video about some stupid superhero movie or just watching endless tits and ass on TikTok.
I've seen "dead internet theory" mentioned a few times on here. What's funny is that there are several YouTube videos with 100ks of "views" as well as mainstream articles discussing the topic, but barely any really detailed talk online. Most Reddit posts on say conspiracy are in the tone of "well, everyone knows that LOL". I've noticed that same condescending tone multiple times in my experience with whatever "AI" runs the internet, doesn't matter what the topic.
I was into some light woo/conspiracy topics pre 2020, but really seeing how QAnon played out on Twitter plus endless video content on YouTube, Bitchute, etc. and then how literally every single conspiracy seems "activated" and latched onto that at the same time (e.g., new age, aliens, apocalypse, etc.) really drove home the concept for me. There was endless video and written content to consume, but try to actually "talk" about how things just didn't make sense, and it was a brick wall.
It seems this cancer has spread to everything. Like I tried to escape the endless woo cycle since it's not like the content is actionable, but then stocks and crypto went crazy (and stupid) with things like GameStop plus endless nonsensical crypto scams and NFTs.
What really started to make sense to me was some of the stuff shared on this "Quantum of Conscience" YouTube channel with Matthew McKinley. Where he talked about some of the concepts mentioned on this Reddit. Like simulated reality, prison planet, etc. But of course it was just another endless rabbit hole with no actionable information, just some more terminology to define how I am being tortured. And I honestly can't believe he could sit there for 10+ years making the same videos every day, deleting videos constantly, not making money off YouTube but still going at it, and so on.
What's funny is how "active" YouTube comments seem on these woo channels. YouTube comments are not indexed by Google, not searchable unless you manually scroll down and then CTRL + F, and there is no way to DM anyone. But yeah, super detailed comments on there, with people saying they are desperate to talk to people. Yet no place to live text chat. I saw a Telegram posted one time by a user, joined it, barely anyone on there (like 10 "people" from a supposed channel of 60k+). And they talked about aliens...ugh...which made no sense other than to mock me as I had already had a shitty time with the alien bots and I find it just the stupidest woo angle.
"Dead internet theory" answers a lot, combined with simulated reality, but then it's just another staged or planted idea. Even the weird retro forum it was "found" on is obvious staging. Go look at the responses beyond the initial post and it is the same endless gibberish found on 4Chan or Reddit or anything like that.
I have a lot to unpack and I'm not saying everything. But really I'm just done. I've joined I don't know how many Discords and Telegrams on not just woo/conspiracy, but even normie stuff and it is IMPOSSIBLE to carry on a conversation. I don't know what is going on. I remember using say IRC in early crypto days and it felt I was at least talking to people somewhat. Now the internet doesn't even seem to give that decency. And forget about anything approaching life or relationship talk. As you will see if you look at Reddit for any length of time, it is endless "get a therapist, get pills, get a divorce." Who is even writing the same crap over and over? How is that fun?
I don't even know what to do anymore. I'm leaving a ton out to keep this post short, but I feel like I've been "steered" to where I am now by online and now, thinking on it some, real world entities. Just enough money to survive, but not enough to really thrive. I don't even want to get into how some of these "people" I talked to in crypto for years and years, even though I voice talked with them and have knowledge of their identities, or at least what they say their identities are, seemed to go haywire and now give me nothing in terms of conversation.
I just feel trapped. And if I was single maybe I'd just give up and at least be a hedonist and travel, but I have a family and responsibilities and all that. But I don't know how much more of this I can take where the internet feels so completely fake and artificial and useless. And I love how I beg "people" on the internet hey where can I talk about so and so topic. If it's a paid group I'll pay. And over and over I get "oh the internet is useless." Then why are you here?! And I hear that over and over from different people online. Wasn't the lie for the longest time how you could be connected on niche topics? And oh sure, if you want to discuss some dumb hobby or some degenerate fetish, there is endless content (probably AI generated if you haven't caught onto my opinion at this point). But want anything actionable? Or any real connection? Forget about it.
Any questions, let me know. And honestly, if the Illuminati or the aliens or the AI or whatever the hell runs everything is watching: you win. Now give me next steps instead of endlessly torturing me with this stupid devil box of a computer.

So, I fixed this! Posting this so other people can find it if they're experiencing a similar problem.
I had a bit of a debug of the board, found the pin on the microcontroller (U35 - STM32F103RCT6) was blown so pulling the signal down, hence the 0C reading.
I used an STM dev board just for the ST-LINK to connect to the SWD port and read the firmware out of the microcontroller. Ordered some free samples of the STM32F103RCT6 from STMicroelectronics.
https://preview.redd.it/a66i4pu1gp2d1.png?width=1833&format=png&auto=webp&s=d4f9f27be9541f7d4c61d279e09ba3240a6b6957
Once the samples arrived I removed the original chip with hot air and replaced it with a new one, being sure to cover up the plastic connectors with Kapton/foil as to not melt them!
https://preview.redd.it/ojhznzyvfp2d1.png?width=1008&format=png&auto=webp&s=9f77392ecc27ed2170090ad9ce6c793797a6720c
I then programmed the new chip with the firmware I read out earlier. Plugged it all back into the printer, turned it on and it all works!
https://preview.redd.it/qpuz6rdkgp2d1.png?width=1008&format=png&auto=webp&s=cba30e45616060c2ef4e8a516d25f51b23c2a5e2
So that saved a board from landfill and saved myself AU$400 for a new one.
As I said, hopefully this helps someone with the same problem.
Cheers,
Matt

Hi there! I'm a 16-year-old guy currently in high school. I'm looking to make some online friends to chat with and share interests. I'm into technology, especially AI and machine learning, and I'm working on learning more about them. I enjoy gaming, watching movies, and reading in my free time. I'm also interested in making new friends from different backgrounds and learning about different cultures. If you're looking for a friendly chat or someone to discuss common interests with, feel free to reach out!

Passed the exam on my first attempt and I am beyond ecstatic!
SCALED SCORES BY CONTENT AREA:

Name	Score
Information Systems Auditing Process	599
Governance and Management of IT	444
Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation	573
Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience	564
Protection of Information Assets	608

Total scaled score of 564. Yes, I know my scores for Domain 2 are low, but that's alright. I passed overall, and that's all that matters.
Background

• 15+ years of work experience, primarily within IT Asset Management, IT Project Analysis/Management, and IT Finance.
• I have been involved in my organization's annual audit of IT general controls (as part of the external financial audit) for the past three years, which prompted me to pursue my CISA certification.

Resources

• The most important resource, like everyone says, is the CISA Review Manual. I read the online manual once from top to bottom. It was REALLY boring. Highlighted text and created flash cards. Honestly, never reviewed any of it again.
• Once I finished reading the CRM, I answered the domain specific questions in the QAE. Scored poorly, almost 45-60% on most of them. Really lowered my confidence, to be honest... especially after reading the entire book for what seemed like an eternity.
• One name that kept popping up in forums was Hemang Doshi. Found his course of Udemy and went through the whole thing. Quality of audio/video is low BUT there were a number of useful tips/tricks which helped me in the exam.
• Completed the 2 practice exams in the QAE after taking the Udemy course above. Took about 1.5 hours each, and scored 91% in each exam, which boosted my confidence.

Full disclosure, I attended a 3-4 day virtual crash course type course from a major IT training company. I can confidently say that it was a massive waste of money. Paid over $3K for it and got zero value from it. And I really mean it... ZERO. I will NEVER recommend attending that course or any paid crash course, if you ask me. There are many online resources available that are better and cheaper.
Preparation Time
Studied religiously for 10 straight days (12-14 hours/day), and took my exam on the 11th day.

• CISA Review Manual: 6 days
• QAE: 1.5 days (domain-specific questions)
• Hemang Doshi: 2 days
• QAE: 0.5 days (practice exam)

I am not including the crash course here since it was completely useless. Moreover, I took it 1 year prior to my exam. Did not follow up on that course at any point. I started preparing exactly 10 days before the exam date.
Tips

• Your best resource is the CRM. It is really dry, but read it. I set goals of 2 days each to complete reading domains 1 and 5, and 1 day each for domains 2, 3, and 4. Exceeded that goal by 1 day, so that felt good.
• When reviewing the QAE, don't try to memorize answers. Instead, try and understand why your answer was wrong (or even right).
• Hemang Doshi's tips are quite useful, especially for hard-to-understand concepts. One of his tips was to try and answer the question even before reading the answers. This works in some cases, but not all. But still a useful strategy.
• Regarding Hemang Doshi... Again, quality was not the greatest but try to keep an open mind. I played the videos at 1.5x-1.75x with no loss in learning.
• I took time off work to study, so that ensured that studying was my only priority.
• Had to give up time with my wife and kids, which was extremely difficult. But, I was motivated to do so knowing that I was working towards a target. Was hoping for light at the end of the tunnel.
• I believe my work experience in asset management, project management, finance, and audit (all within IT) helped me understand the content better since I could apply it to the CRM content. So perhaps I was at an advantage here.
• I didn't sleep well during the 10 days, but I did the day before the exam. I was much more composed during the exam. Figured there was no use cramming in the last minute.

The Exam

• I opted for the virtual proctored exam.
• I was calm on the morning of the exam... until I decided to run the compatibility checker for PSI, 2 hours before the exam. It failed due to low network streaming quality. I was on WiFi, so I moved closer to where my router was. Failed again! Moved even closer and switched to a wired connection. FAILED. At this point, stress levels were through the roof. Ran it 2 more times. Failed. Ran it once more. PASSED. Ran it again. PASSED. One more time, FAILED. Again, PASSED. Figured that PSI was having issues, so I left it at that. Joined the exam 30 mins early without any issues.
• Not sure how it is when you write the exam in a test center, but they don't even let you drink water (not even from a clear bottle or glass) during the exam. That was annoying.
• You have to have your hands visible at all times, you cannot cover your mouth, you can't read the questions aloud, etc.
• I think they allow breaks, but I can't be sure. I didn't bother asking.
• Used 3 out of the 4 hours to complete the exam. This included going back and reviewing 20% of the exam that I flagged for myself for further review.
• Seeing "Passed" at the very end was the best feeling in the world for me. Literally felt like a ton of bricks was lifted off my shoulders.

I will mention that I always felt that my strong areas were Domains 2-4. My weakest was Domain 5. My scores say otherwise, so that's surprising. But I'll take it.
I hope this information is useful for anyone preparing for the exam. Good luck!

Hi! I'm looking to buy a pair of Sony's Linkbuds S. I tried it at the store and loved the way they sounded!
I was planning to buy them today at an official Sony's online store but I just recently found out about battery drain issues on (not just) these buds type from Sony but others too (like XM4 or 5). From what I've read, people who bought Linkbuds S since 2022 are starting to get the battery drain issue.
I was wondering if there's any word on Sony fixing this issue in their next production batches of Linkbuds S? it's such a bummer because I really want to buy one because of the sound quality and now I'm considering not to. I had a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and for 3 years the battery still lasts very long (approx. 6 hrs still, no signs of battery drain), but I do want a sound quality upgrade.

Hey everyone! Male, 32 here.
I was just discussing with someone what the average body count (number of people slept with) is for a 30 year old. Looking online it seems that most articles say that for 30 years of age it's around 5 sexual partners for men, and 3 or 4 for women. That seems way too low. Maybe the average has gone up in recent years because of Tinder and other dating apps?
My body count is 15 😬.
TL;DR; : Trying to find what a realistic, average body count is. What is a normal high range body count for age 30?.

I can't get over this. We were on vacation with our respective kids, she messaged me accusing me of two things that aren't true and are provable by me, blocked me and ignored my milestone birthday 3 days later. She since unblocked me, probably by accident and can't re-block me for 48 hours. I sent her a thoughtful message outlining why her accusations were untrue, how hurtful she is being, nothing rude/angry but honest and candid. She's been online but hasn't read it (very unlike her). I messaged earlier wishing her 2 year old a happy birthday after she ignored mine. She said she'd let the 2 year old know.
I feel like such an idiot thinking she was my very dear friend. I'm too old for this nonsense and game playing. We have vacationed together and done all kinds of things with our own kids. We talked for hours at times, and every little thing that passed either of our minds, we'd share and laugh or comment on. I would have dropped what I was doing and drove the long distance to her house if she needed me. I feel so betrayed and screwed over and I don't understand how people can do this to others and not care about hurting them. I'm in tears and panicking and I feel like I should know better by my age. This is so hurtful and she won't even talk to me. I don't deserve this. How do I move on and fill this Friend sized hole in my life?