Beef rib eye roast marinade
The Last Child (Fanfic)
2024.05.19 10:16 ChristLover10 The Last Child (Fanfic)
(Part 2 out now)
I woke up with a cough of blood and pain. I felt something metal with my hands as I looked down. A long stint of rebar poked out of my ribcage and through my chest plate, covered in a mix of my blood and the bile of a bug.
I reached down and grabbed my Senator, feeling its trusty weight in my hands. I haphazardly tried to place the barrel against the portion of rebar sticking out of my back. This had better work, I thought. I pulled the trigger once and with a loud Crack I felt the vibration from the shot in my stomach. I tried to choke down vomit and pulled the trigger twice more Crack, Crack. With the third shot the rebar gave way and I rolled to my side and collapsed on the ground. Agony shot through my body as I hit the dirt.
I realized then, Hmmph, they left me. During Extraction one of the other divers called in a 500kg as we were about to board Pelican 1. She had thrown it over one of those damned chargers in an effort to kill one last bug but... it started charging us. I was the last one in line and just as I was about to board... i was thrown 200 feet away from extraction site. I don't blame them. I'd have left me too. We had successfully evacuated a number of scientists and other military personnel, but we'd lost the planet. No hard feelings I guess.
I tried to pull my mind away from those thoughts and just focused on one. Survive. I pulled myself to my knees and looked at the rebar again. Cant park there bud, I thought tryna cheer myself up. I had dropped my senator when I fell and ended up with two free hands. I reached down and with the assistance of my servo-assited armor prepared to wrench the rebar from my chest. Alright, count of three, I thought. One my heartrate quickened. Two I adjusted my grip ever so slightly. Three I ripped the metal rod out and felt a hot stinging pain shoot through my body. I quickly grabbed a stim and applied it.
I winced as the stim numbed my broken ribs and began rapidly working to heal them and my open chest wound. After a couple seconds, I could stand.
I took quick stock of my inventory. My Senator with 23 rounds left, two ration packs, a canteen of water, 1 stim, a knife, and a bag of oatmeal. Oatmeal? Seriously? I'd rather have ammo but... beggars can't be choosers.
I looked around me. Snow and beaten down rubble surrounded me. This was some kind of research station, I think. Didn't bother grabbing the name. Cold as hell and nothing really around to get my bearings. Great. I thought. Im gonna die inside a freezer. I started looking through the rubble for anything useful. I found a corpse of one of the scientists that hadn't made it to evac. I grabbed the ID card off his jacket. Figured It'd get me inside a building if there were any left standing. I crawled out of the rubble and onto the snowy tundra.
The sun had set and with it most of the light I would've been able to utilize. I scanned the horizon for a blinking light. Blinking like meant beacon. Beacon meant possible radio, maybe some ammo. I clocked one to the southwest and began walking that direction senator drawn.
I spotted a few distant bug patrols illuminated by moonlight but they had no interest in me. I kept my head down and kept moving towards the light. Details started to take shape and I could see this was a research station. Perfect I thought.
I reached the door and used the key card. There was a Beep and the red light flashed green. The door cracked open before jamming. Oh no you dont, I thought and with one hand yanked the door open. I closed it behind me with the same hand to keep the wildlife disinterested.
Inside was dark and damp. I had lost the seal integrity on my suit so there was barely any oxygen regulation. Didn't need it on this planet but still, it's a bitch to fix. I turned my flashlight on and started scanning the room for a light switch. I found one but wouldn't ya know it... dead. At least the beacon had power. I walked over to the radio and pulled off my helmet. I wedged the flashlight in my neck and leaned my head to the side. I started flipping switches and turning dials to see if there was a response. Nothing. Id have to find the master terminal. I grabbed the flashlight and donned my helmet again. I began scanning the room again before I heard it. A little shuffle behind me. I turned quickly and drew my senator raising it at the source of the sound.
It was a small child. At least... thats what it appeared to be. At first glance I could see bindings on its legs and arms. A hospital gown with little ducklings on it and a teddy bear tucked under its arm. I lowered my senator as it spoke.
"Dr. Mehon told me to wait here. He said hed be right back."
Dr. Mehon was probably dead I thought. I knelt down and put my hand on the child's shoulder. "Whats your name kid?"
"3". I felt a rage build up. I swallowed it quickly.
"Well 3, what uh... why.. why do you have bin.." I stopped myself. Whatever those scientists were doing here...
3 looked up at me and I noticed it. A cat like set of eyes. Other little details started to click as well. Four fingers on each hand, slightly pointed ears, a discoloration of skin and a rigid scale-like spine on the shoulder.
"The radio doesnt work mister." 3 seemed to have understood their situation. "Dr Mehon destroyed it before he left."
I realized then that it was unlikely either of us would make it off this planet alive.
EDIT: Part 2 out now! (Part 2's a lil shorter) I Didnt think itd get this many upvotes and comments. Ill keep writing then. Feel free to suggest names for 3!
submitted by ChristLover10 to LowSodiumHellDivers [link] [comments]
I woke up with a cough of blood and pain. I felt something metal with my hands as I looked down. A long stint of rebar poked out of my ribcage and through my chest plate, covered in a mix of my blood and the bile of a bug.
I reached down and grabbed my Senator, feeling its trusty weight in my hands. I haphazardly tried to place the barrel against the portion of rebar sticking out of my back. This had better work, I thought. I pulled the trigger once and with a loud Crack I felt the vibration from the shot in my stomach. I tried to choke down vomit and pulled the trigger twice more Crack, Crack. With the third shot the rebar gave way and I rolled to my side and collapsed on the ground. Agony shot through my body as I hit the dirt.
I realized then, Hmmph, they left me. During Extraction one of the other divers called in a 500kg as we were about to board Pelican 1. She had thrown it over one of those damned chargers in an effort to kill one last bug but... it started charging us. I was the last one in line and just as I was about to board... i was thrown 200 feet away from extraction site. I don't blame them. I'd have left me too. We had successfully evacuated a number of scientists and other military personnel, but we'd lost the planet. No hard feelings I guess.
I tried to pull my mind away from those thoughts and just focused on one. Survive. I pulled myself to my knees and looked at the rebar again. Cant park there bud, I thought tryna cheer myself up. I had dropped my senator when I fell and ended up with two free hands. I reached down and with the assistance of my servo-assited armor prepared to wrench the rebar from my chest. Alright, count of three, I thought. One my heartrate quickened. Two I adjusted my grip ever so slightly. Three I ripped the metal rod out and felt a hot stinging pain shoot through my body. I quickly grabbed a stim and applied it.
I winced as the stim numbed my broken ribs and began rapidly working to heal them and my open chest wound. After a couple seconds, I could stand.
I took quick stock of my inventory. My Senator with 23 rounds left, two ration packs, a canteen of water, 1 stim, a knife, and a bag of oatmeal. Oatmeal? Seriously? I'd rather have ammo but... beggars can't be choosers.
I looked around me. Snow and beaten down rubble surrounded me. This was some kind of research station, I think. Didn't bother grabbing the name. Cold as hell and nothing really around to get my bearings. Great. I thought. Im gonna die inside a freezer. I started looking through the rubble for anything useful. I found a corpse of one of the scientists that hadn't made it to evac. I grabbed the ID card off his jacket. Figured It'd get me inside a building if there were any left standing. I crawled out of the rubble and onto the snowy tundra.
The sun had set and with it most of the light I would've been able to utilize. I scanned the horizon for a blinking light. Blinking like meant beacon. Beacon meant possible radio, maybe some ammo. I clocked one to the southwest and began walking that direction senator drawn.
I spotted a few distant bug patrols illuminated by moonlight but they had no interest in me. I kept my head down and kept moving towards the light. Details started to take shape and I could see this was a research station. Perfect I thought.
I reached the door and used the key card. There was a Beep and the red light flashed green. The door cracked open before jamming. Oh no you dont, I thought and with one hand yanked the door open. I closed it behind me with the same hand to keep the wildlife disinterested.
Inside was dark and damp. I had lost the seal integrity on my suit so there was barely any oxygen regulation. Didn't need it on this planet but still, it's a bitch to fix. I turned my flashlight on and started scanning the room for a light switch. I found one but wouldn't ya know it... dead. At least the beacon had power. I walked over to the radio and pulled off my helmet. I wedged the flashlight in my neck and leaned my head to the side. I started flipping switches and turning dials to see if there was a response. Nothing. Id have to find the master terminal. I grabbed the flashlight and donned my helmet again. I began scanning the room again before I heard it. A little shuffle behind me. I turned quickly and drew my senator raising it at the source of the sound.
It was a small child. At least... thats what it appeared to be. At first glance I could see bindings on its legs and arms. A hospital gown with little ducklings on it and a teddy bear tucked under its arm. I lowered my senator as it spoke.
"Dr. Mehon told me to wait here. He said hed be right back."
Dr. Mehon was probably dead I thought. I knelt down and put my hand on the child's shoulder. "Whats your name kid?"
"3". I felt a rage build up. I swallowed it quickly.
"Well 3, what uh... why.. why do you have bin.." I stopped myself. Whatever those scientists were doing here...
3 looked up at me and I noticed it. A cat like set of eyes. Other little details started to click as well. Four fingers on each hand, slightly pointed ears, a discoloration of skin and a rigid scale-like spine on the shoulder.
"The radio doesnt work mister." 3 seemed to have understood their situation. "Dr Mehon destroyed it before he left."
I realized then that it was unlikely either of us would make it off this planet alive.
EDIT: Part 2 out now! (Part 2's a lil shorter) I Didnt think itd get this many upvotes and comments. Ill keep writing then. Feel free to suggest names for 3!
2024.05.19 10:09 ktdukes The forbidden roast beef curtains
 | submitted by ktdukes to memes [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 09:35 TrueButNotProvable potato bun thousand island crispy onions jack daniel's bbq sauce sausage beef brisket sharp cheddar cheese meat patty sharp cheddar cheese meat patty potato bun
 | submitted by TrueButNotProvable to juicyshaqmeat [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 09:29 TrueButNotProvable Here's some Shaq meat. I wonder if it's juicy?
 | submitted by TrueButNotProvable to juicyshaqmeat [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 09:14 TrueButNotProvable Haha, anyone want some juicy Shaq meat?
 | submitted by TrueButNotProvable to juicyshaqmeat [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 08:58 CBTwitch Played Darkoath at a RTT Today
 | I played in a three round RTT today with a list that was heavy into Darkoath. List wasn’t super optimized, so I added some stuff in that usually never sees the table to test their viability, like a Centaurion for the 5+ rally, and a Myrmidon to run with my Theridons. submitted by CBTwitch to slavestodarkness [link] [comments] Ultimately I got stuck into two not great matchups: SoB and Kruleboys. I was just overpowered and screened hard by the Gargants, and then completely rekt by orruk bolt boys. I made some tactical errors in both matches (had to drop the third due to family reasons), but it was mostly a combination of not being aggressive enough in board control maneuvers, and then a million MWs coming at me hard and fast. Ultimately, this was my first horde style list, and it was a bit of a… culture shock? I was slower than usual, since I’m used to playing elite style armies, I’m sure there will be better pilots than me using a full Darkoath list, but for my money, I’m going to need to do some serious practice to pick up any sort of proficiency with these fellows. Some things of note: Enemy players will go hard after some pretty essential lynchpins, like the mounted chieftain, Sarrakar, and the Wilderfiend. While each one can be resummoned with rally the tribes, each tribe rally used on regaining a lost hero is one less tribe rally used on marauders or Fellriders. Losing the double heroic of the mounted chieftan is especially irritating. The mounted chieftain’s oath is nearly impossible to get and survive after the getting. That +1 to wound aura is nice, but he is oh so squishy. Clearing the oath of almost every Darkoath unit while also earning and aggregating eye of the gods table rolls is super rough. Even if your marauders clear their oath, much like the chieftain, they’re not likely to survive terribly long after the charge. The Centaurion was helpful with rally, sort of. Rolled twice to rally some half dead marauders, reinforced, and even with 7+ rally rolls, across two turns, only managed to recover three guys. I think rally the tribes may be better overall than trying to spend a cp to get no guys back. Additionally, having idolator lord on the Centaurion is nice in theory, but it’s hard to keep him alive long enough to curse a target, especially if he can’t see any of those targets outside of 12”. Weight of dice on spear marauders would have earned a handful of MWs normally, but it’s irrelevant without being able to get curse off. I’m thinking switching to a Kark lord to make a priest to give the roll a little more beef and punchy power. Khorne Greataxe Theridons can put out a lot of hurt on the charge with savagery unleashed, with the expectation of getting melted after their damage is done, especially nice with curse. Ultimately doesn’t matter if you can’t get the curse off and are at a basically permanent -1 to hit. Their damage skews to completely inconsequential. These guys aren’t the blender Chosen are, but their points are much nicer for their glass cannon status. A reinforced block of Fellriders does very little in combat; their ranged attacks are superior, but it doesn’t matter much when they’re erased almost immediately by orruk crossbows that seemingly never hit on anything but rolls of fives and sixes, leading to ridiculously high MW counts. My list finally caused me to realize why so many people complained about MW spam, to which I’d been mostly oblivious, normally running elite bodies with rune wards. There is no coping with MWs with these fellows. The Gnarlspirit pack are great in theory, but didn’t put in any work. They’re still great for getting an overshadow score in, but I never got to swing with them since they got shot off the board super fast, and missed their only charge opportunity at 7”. Sarrakar was decent, but not exceptional. The mainline sorcerer lord was objectively better just on access to Oracular and Demonic Power alone. Downside is the complete lack of synergy with the DO guys. Eldritch Command artifact was fun though, stealing a Jaws spell twice, forcing the other guy to waste a cast on a dispel both times. Savagers are mid. Next time I’ll just run Splintered Fang or fit some other battleline in. I think I’ll try to fit Belakor in my list somehow, I love running him, and having Dark Master for at least one turn might have helped shift some momentum in my favour. So that’s the off the top of my head notes for my first two games with 3e Ravagers/Darkoath. |
2024.05.19 08:56 Count-Daring243 Best Carbon Fiber Bipod
 | submitted by Count-Daring243 to u/Count-Daring243 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/g9r5aix8zb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1065dc42814ba8aa4cac21f6ee10240c7518f2c4 Welcome to our roundup article on the Carbon Fiber Bipod! If you're in search of a reliable and sturdy accessory for your gun, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll be diving into the world of carbon fiber bipods and showcasing our top picks for the best bipods on the market. So, buckle up and get ready to find your perfect match! The Top 18 Best Carbon Fiber Bipod
Reviews🔗Compact, Lightweight AR 10 Bipod with No Assembly Requiredhttps://preview.redd.it/ogj9v9g9zb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bdaabec5489c5a52ba167313ac6b7bd32865ce3f The Champion Bipod is a must-have for all AR 10 enthusiasts. I've been using it for a few months now, and it has definitely enhanced my firearm experience. Firstly, the bipod is incredibly easy to attach to the gun, with just a quick installation to the sling swivel stud. And, what I particularly love is that there's literally no assembly required, making it perfect for those who aren't handy with tools. The telescoping legs are a major highlight. Their spring-load return means you can easily extend and retract the legs, ensuring quick and easy height adjustment. But, I do have to admit that while the bipod adds extra stability, it does make the gun feel a bit heavier. However, despite its lightweight design, the bipod itself is surprisingly sturdy and durable. It's capable of handling the recoil of my AR 10 and maintaining its rigidity. It does lack the ability to swivel, though, which does make it somewhat limited in its flexibility. Overall, the Champion Bipod is a solid purchase for anyone looking to add extra stability and precision to their rifle. Even though it does come with a few shortcomings, it still offers great value for money and performance. 🔗High-Quality HD-50 Bipod for 50 BMG Rifleshttps://preview.redd.it/yoiw8qu9zb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0d12bb9309b2d0ec0811fc4e94bbcd5cf6fb2abf I recently tried the Accu-Tac HD-50 Bipod Black, and let me tell you, it's a sturdy and reliable companion for any shooting enthusiast. This bipod is specifically designed for heavy-duty rifles, with a center hub that offers great stability and strength. The larger arm lock lugs ensure it can withstand the recoil of a 50 BMG, which is definitely appreciated. One of the standout features for me was the ability to cant and the throw lever, which makes adjustments a breeze. The only downside I encountered was that the product description didn't explicitly mention whether the bipod had the ability to cant or not. This left me to figure it out once I had the product in hand. But overall, I'm quite pleased with this sturdy, heavy-duty bipod that will be a trusty addition to my shooting gear. 🔗Adjustable Heavy Duty AR-10 Bipod with Precision Leg Lockshttps://preview.redd.it/msyilk6azb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=47d9bc9a7e98ed1d95d2bb8a137fbfe5a7ebef97 Imagine you're out on the range, adjusting the angle of your AR 10 on unpredictable terrain. As you take aim, you're grateful for the Tac Shield Heavy Duty Bi-Pod. Its side-to-side swivel capabilities feel as natural as a seasoned shooter, and that quick adjustment lever? . A game-changer. The precision leg locks offer a sure grip, no matter how uneven the surface. Its legs extend quickly and lock in place with an ease that's unmatched. Even better are the grip caps on the bottom - they hold steady, providing the perfect rest for a steady shot. And, when it's time to retract, the spring return release buttons make it a breeze. Now, you see why this Heavy Duty Bi-Pod has a 5-star rating. It's not just a tool, it's an essential part of your shooting experience. 🔗Swagger Hunter29 Bipod: Versatile AR 10 Bipod for Maximum Shooting Agilityhttps://preview.redd.it/q2y1iznazb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef3a829b48aa3f006d765b8240229b10ff31aa36 I recently had the chance to try out the Swagger Hunter29 bipod, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The moment I assembled it, I was struck by its lightweight design, which weighed in at just 23.6 ounces. One standout feature for me was the easy removal of the rubber foot to reveal the spiked foot, allowing me to dig into my terrain with ease. The leg design and internal updates from 2018 also impressed me, as they provided a much smoother shooting experience. The nitride finish on the springs and spring housing was a nice touch, adding an extra layer of durability. As someone who appreciates versatility in their gear, I was excited to see that this bipod came with a reinforced bungee and a standard rifle adapter. Its compatibility with a wide range of shooting positions, from prone to seated to kneeling, added to my confidence in its performance. Overall, the Swagger Hunter29 bipod proved to be a solid choice for hunters and shooters alike. Its ability to adapt to various terrains and obstacles helped me feel confident in my shots, and its lightweight design made it easy to carry along. While there may be some minor drawbacks to the setup process, the benefits of using this bipod far outweigh them. I wholeheartedly recommend the Swagger Hunter29 to anyone in search of a reliable and versatile shooting aid. 🔗Steady AR 10 Bipod with Traversing Technologyhttps://preview.redd.it/v0djlg2bzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d744ec54754101137e8f57f013b2984e459c976e As a fellow hunter, I recently had the chance to try out these Champion Bipods with cant & traverse, and I was quite impressed with the features they offered. The 9" to 13" horizontal rotation system proved to be a game-changer when it came to getting a steadfast hold on moving game. It's like having an extra set of eyes, as you can easily follow the game's movements without losing sight. Though the rapid-adjust lever lock offers quick and easy positioning, I did notice that it could use some fine-tuning. However, I find the telescoping legs with spring return to be a fantastic addition, as they make it easy to attach to the sling swivel stud on your firearm. The steadiness of this bipod shines through, and it's not just for prone shots - it's also perfect for those benchrest or sitting situations. For uneven terrain, the pivoting feature is a lifesaver. Though the product is made in China, its quality seems to mimic that of much higher-priced models. Overall, while there are some minor drawbacks, these bipods prove to be an excellent value for the price, and I'm sure they'll serve as an invaluable tool for hunters all around. 🔗Adjustable AR 10 Bipod with 60-degree Pan Movementhttps://preview.redd.it/jahx0cmbzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=677bb215af022ff763acab53e72c7c2b56b55c12 Recently, I tried out the FAB Defense Spike Tactical Bipod and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for my rifle setup. As someone who enjoys shooting at long distances, a bipod can make all the difference in keeping shots consistent and accurate. One of the first things that stood out to me was its smart hybrid construction. It strikes the perfect balance between sturdiness and lightweight. This was amazing for me because I wanted a bipod that wouldn't slow me down while still offering stability. The four locking leg positions were another major highlight. The flexibility to adjust the legs at 0, 45, 90, and 135 degrees allowed me to use it in different shooting situations with ease. I appreciated that it could be quickly adjusted for different heights and angles without any hassle. The adjustable rotating head was another feature I loved. Its simple design ensured that my rifle remained steady, even when I needed to make quick changes on the fly. I also found the 60-degree pan movement and 20-degree tilt movement to be quite useful, providing me with a greater range of motion as I shot from various positions. Despite loving most aspects of this bipod, there were a couple of drawbacks to mention. The first was that the legs, while sturdy, could feel a bit narrow at times, particularly when using heavy optics. The second was that extending or retracting them required a bit more force than I'd have expected, but that's a small price to pay for the overall stability this bipod provides. Overall, the FAB Defense Spike Precision Bipod exceeded my expectations. It offers a sturdy build, is lightweight, and has features that make it a reliable and flexible addition to any rifle. Sure, there may be some minor drawbacks, but for the price range, it's a steal for shooters looking to improve their accuracy and make their shooting experience more enjoyable. 🔗Swagger Extreme Angle AR Bipod for Hunting Performancehttps://preview.redd.it/jabddjzbzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=06a18e5153b76e237c79b35d7b68e47ceb189488 This Swagger SEA12 Shooter Extreme Angle Bipod is a piece of equipment I've grown quite fond of lately. Picture this - I'm out in the wild, hunting for big game. With its 9-12 inch height adjustability, it provides a stable shooting platform for those critical moments, especially when dealing with those pesky angles. What I particularly appreciate about this bipod is its overmolded flex-ready joint. It's like having an extra grip of confidence, knowing that my shot won't be compromised by the slightest wobble. And it's designed to be adaptable, so no matter the angle, you'll always have a steady hand. It's not all smooth sailing though. As with any gadget, there's always a learning curve, and it took me a bit of time to get the hang of mounting it onto my Picatinny rail. But once I figured it out, it was game on. All in all, if you're hunting or shooting in situations where angles play a significant role, this Swagger SEA12 Shooter Extreme Angle Bipod is a worthy investment. It's robust, reliable, and can be your companion through those thrilling moments in the wild. 🔗TraverseTrack Bipod for Sling Swivel Connectionhttps://preview.redd.it/q6bftvjczb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3b490720b46989f9b3e30473d2fc0d383bf50436 Lately, I've been using the Blackhawk Sportster TraverseTrack Bipod, and I must say, it's been quite a game changer for me. The bipod has been incredibly helpful during my practice sessions and even made life simpler while tracking my targets. First and foremost, the sturdy all-metal construction of the bipod has been quite impressive. It carries a robust and durable vibe that makes me feel safe and confident while holding it. The tubular legs have always been steady, even when the targets started to move. Its horizontal traverse allows me to make smooth, steady movements with minimal effort. What I've found particularly useful is the pivot action feature. It makes it seamless to level my gun when I'm shooting on uneven terrains, thus providing a dependable and consistent shooting experience without any hassle. The leg adjustment is just a breeze with the help of the rapid-adjust lever lock. The legs automatically return to their upright position whenever I need them to be, which has been a genuine relief. The ability to attach this bipod to my sling swivel stud has also been a significant win. It's straightforward, and the convenience and maneuverability it brings into play are noteworthy. However, despite these upsides, I've also had a few gripes. For one, I found the legs to be just a little too fragile at the locking tabs. I don't know if it's a manufacturing issue or if I just had bad luck, but both tabs broke within a week. I had to resort to using some blue loc tite to fix the issue, which was an inconvenience. Secondly, I do wish the legs were a bit longer, to make it more suitable for my needs in certain shooting positions. The existing one sometimes feels a bit too short for what I had in mind. Lastly, this one might just be a me thing, but I felt it could be a bit lighter, especially when carrying it around for long. It's not a major issue, but it would have been a pleasant addition for sure. Overall, the Blackhawk Sportster TraverseTrack Bipod has been a valuable addition to my arsenal. It boasts of a number of convenient features that have significantly enhanced my shooting experience, but like any other mechanical contraption, not every aspect has been perfect. 🔗Accu-Tac FC-5 G2 F-Class Bipod for Long-Range Shootinghttps://preview.redd.it/08a3fnyczb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c5e1ce5ad871e57151e19300e0f994f8e3b39a92 I've been using the Accu-Tac FC-5 G2 Arca Spec Bipod for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer. This F-Class bipod is incredibly versatile, perfect for long-range target shooting, competitions, and even airgun use. It's a bit more expensive than your usual bipods, but trust me, it's worth every penny. The one feature that stood out to me the most is how stable this bipod is. It allows the rifle to sit between your legs, which ensures accuracy and reduces movement from recoil. It's even suitable for AR 10 Bipod applications, but you don't have to limit yourself to those. One thing I noticed was that the cant adjustment lever can be repositioned, but don't use a tool to tighten the tension. Other than that, I've been really impressed with how easy it is to deploy the leg positions and how secure it is when locked in place. I'll definitely consider this option next time I'm looking for a bipod. 🔗UTG Pro Recon 360 TL 7-9" MLOK Bipod: 360-Degree Swivel, Adjustable Height, and Nonslip Rubberized Foot Padshttps://preview.redd.it/u0nzb5fdzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=039234688867cbdc6dc145c1c33bf41a18cf4ecd As a reviewer, I've been using the UTG Pro Recon bipod for a while now, and it has been quite an experience. I particularly enjoy the fact that it's adjustable both in height and swivel, allowing me to set up the most stable platform for my rifle. The 3-position folding legs come in handy when I need to pack up quickly, and the lockable leg extensions ensure security. However, the rubber feet at the end of the legs do slip a bit on some surfaces, which can be quite annoying. Despite the minor inconvenience, the bipod has proven to be a reliable piece of gear, providing the stability and versatility I need for my shooting adventures. 🔗Heavy Duty AR-10 Adjustable Swivel Bipodhttps://preview.redd.it/p4hqzntdzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5deb7796b5a51f5ff8799503de8f3ee056d545db I recently tried out the Tac Shield Heavy Duty Pivoting Bi-Pod, and honestly, it's been a game-changer in my shooting setup. The adjustable shooting heights make it perfect for uneven terrain, thanks to the pivoting design and quick adjustment pivot lever. The precision tension leg locks are a nice touch, ensuring a secure fit no matter what surface I'm on. What really stood out to me, though, were the reinforced tension springs. These bad boys have made a significant difference when it comes to durability. I love how sturdy and reliable they feel, and I can tell that they're built to last. The ribbed grip caps on the bottom legs also add a touch of convenience, providing a steady and secure rest whenever I need it. The spring assist leg retraction feature is fantastic too - it makes it incredibly easy to retract the legs, and the spring return release buttons ensure a quick and positive retraction every time. All in all, this Tac Shield Heavy Duty Pivoting Bi-Pod has definitely become a staple in my shooting gear. Highly recommended! 🔗Advanced Portable Sling Stud Bipod with Switcheroo Systemhttps://preview.redd.it/0w0pgo5ezb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fccd0c7f92b608186859c8a7ea861e83bca4977d This BOG Adrenaline Switcheroo Bipod has been the perfect addition to my arsenal lately, providing that extra support for my gun when needed. One thing I particularly love is the high-density foam grips, which not only make it comfortable to hold but also ensure a firm and secure grip even in unexpected situations. However, there are a couple of minor drawbacks. Although the rotating head lets me shoot from various angles, it can sometimes be a bit slow when deploying the bipod in a hurry. Additionally, the product description mentioned a Switcheroo system, but I wasn't quite sure what that was about, as I haven't had much occasion to change my optics while using this bipod. Overall, I'm quite happy with this bipod and how it's performed for me in my hunting endeavors so far. It's lightweight, incredibly stable, and the high-density foam grips ensure a comfortable yet firm grip. This bipod has definitely made my hunting experiences more enjoyable and successful. Buyer's GuideWelcome to the buyer's guide for carbon fiber bipods! If you're a hunter, shooter, or outdoor enthusiast in search of a sturdy yet lightweight bipod, you've landed in the right place. In this guide, we will go over essential features to consider and provide advice to help you make the best purchase for your needs.Key Features to Consider
https://preview.redd.it/j9bbkeohzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e430e63a31398f595bf4a7cd4b4b9d35f0d931ef 1. Durability and Build QualityCarbon fiber is a high-strength, lightweight material that is ideal for outdoor gear. In bipods, carbon fiber construction can withstand wear and tear from rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. Investing in a bipod made from quality carbon fiber will ensure long-lasting performance.2. Weight and PortabilityLightweight design is a key advantage of carbon fiber bipods. A portable and lightweight bipod not only makes your hunting or shooting experience more enjoyable, but it also reduces fatigue over long days in the field. Many carbon fiber bipods also offer easy-to-use quick-detach options, simplifying transitions between shooting positions.3. Height AdjustabilityBeing able to adjust the bipod's height to suit your needs is crucial. Look for a bipod with a solid locking mechanism that allows for smooth and precise height adjustments. A good range of adjustability will help you achieve optimal stability and comfort with your shooting stance. https://preview.redd.it/a38sgp8izb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6185e139fe6a1faeb6dc0e0e7cdca6a3407748b 4. Stability and Quick-Detach OptionsA reliable and stable bipod is essential for accurate shots. Some features that contribute to stability include a heavy-duty mount, wide legs, and locking mechanisms that secure the legs in place. Quick-detach options, such as a twist-lock system or spring-loaded hinges, make it easy to mount and dismount your bipod without sacrificing stability.5. Leg Angle and Pan FunctionTwo critical features for a carbon fiber bipod are the leg angle and pan function. Leg angle adjustments allow you to fine-tune the bipod's position relative to your shooting angle, ensuring maximum stability and accuracy. A pan function allows you to lock the bipod's legs in a fixed position, which is perfect for stable shooting scenarios or when transitioning between stations.General Advice and Considerations
https://preview.redd.it/hbc3e0rizb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=840fee991391fc20a4adfc2e5029f61ebb3d4d0d FAQWhat is a Carbon Fiber Bipod?A Carbon Fiber Bipod is a shooting accessory designed to provide stability and support for rifles during long-range shooting. Made from carbon fiber, it is lightweight, durable, and strong.What are the benefits of using a Carbon Fiber Bipod?The benefits of using a Carbon Fiber Bipod include increased stability and accuracy, reduced fatigue during long shooting sessions, and quick deployment and adjustment. https://preview.redd.it/skrrx5bjzb1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8746ac37acbbf3f800c8b7e422f089c6eb258e02 How much do Carbon Fiber Bipods typically cost?The cost of Carbon Fiber Bipods varies depending on the brand, features, and length. Generally, they can range from around $150 to $500 or higher.What are the different types of Carbon Fiber Bipods?There are several types of Carbon Fiber Bipods, including fixed-height bipods, adjustable-height bipods, and tactical bipods. Each type offers different features and benefits to suit the needs of different shooters.What are the key features to look for when choosing a Carbon Fiber Bipod?
Are Carbon Fiber Bipods easy to set up and adjust?Yes, most Carbon Fiber Bipods are designed to be easy to set up and adjust, with quick-release mechanisms and easy-to-use leg angle adjustments.How do I choose the right height for my Carbon Fiber Bipod?To choose the right height for your Carbon Fiber Bipod, consider your shooting style and the terrain you will be shooting on. Generally, a higher bipod height is better for longer shots, while a lower height is better for close-range shooting.Can I use a Carbon Fiber Bipod with any rifle?While most Carbon Fiber Bipods are compatible with a wide range of rifles, it is always best to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility with your particular rifle.What is the warranty for Carbon Fiber Bipods?The warranty for Carbon Fiber Bipods varies depending on the brand and model. Generally, they offer a limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship, and may also cover damage during normal use.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.19 08:52 Wolfwarrior121892 Poem I wrote
Can anyone tell me if I am the only one . Is it me am I the problem? I don’t know what to believe anymore I wanna know someone give me a reason an explanation fuck give me an excuse for all the moments in my life that pain so white hot and intense has wracked my body and brought me to my knees when my will to live has been brought face to face with my darkest fear. Where the only words i can hear as death whispers in my ear is my name sweetly spoken in promises of a quiet mind and peace. Can anyone hear me is this thing on. My fear is fading out and I know I should be scared at this but I don’t feel fear the same anymore. it is blurring around the edges and starts to look a lot like comfort something I just can’t seem to find or hold in my grasp, and I tell myself I should be scared at this but my soul is battered and bruised and I am running on fumes.I honestly don’t know how many more days I can wake up to this bleakness of my uncomfterably painful existence. Is my pain all in my head. Did I do something that has led the People i love to mishandle me. Do I deserve to be wrecked every day the minute consciousness returns to this weapon that is my brain. Ive torn myself apart so many times ive made myself BLEED. ive let my pain soak into me till I no longer existed in space, gone without a trace. I try so hard to do no harm. As I am falling apart. I pour and pour from my empty cup. Its been empty from my fucking start. My dad was the first to mishandle my fragle new heart. He is where my cracks did start. Home was a battle field amd my skin was where my father’s anger would wage war. I grew up being told I held the golden cup full of my father’s favor. It never would save my skin from his anger. And I was told, no reminded often, how wicked I had been to the first being my heart ever truly let in. I grew up feeling every blow they took wrapped in guilt savagely placed on my heart to go along with my skins own marks. I was Twice whipped but only one would ever heal the other would bleed me every day even till today. At 8 is when death would first whisper my name to me . I never knew never would he ever depart from my mind and heart. At 9 so small and yet already my soul felt so heavy. My wounded little family grew by one. And traveled miles back to where my first cry had taken place. Where I would be born again and die more than one time. 9 taking on a little one. The second soul who would come to know my heart. Cherished and so loved even before air would give raise to his own challenging start. My mother would finish the killing of me without stopping my heart. The tiny soul I had hoped for was ripped away from me unexpectedly. Given away to have a chance, a brand new start , Or so that is what was said. 17 years I would mourn this everyday feeling like a piece of me was lost. By 11 melancholy would already call me home. School the escape from the war at home had become a battlefield of its own. And wounds would be added to the collection that had started. My first brush with a razor and a mans warped desires would fall in this timeframe not too far apart. Ill never know why my mother would make guilt and not love in me grow. Love for my parents I have felt from the start and still with each mark on my heart they would leave on me, the only thing I would ever bleed is my desire that they would want me.that they would love me. Can a child grow up too young? I don’t think I grew up tho. Ive been trapped in the tiny body that never had a real chance to start. By 15 I had lost both parents and one sibling already I was torn apart and bleeding. My wounded heart festering as it began to rot. The razor blades became my closest friends. At least when they marked my skin, I had wanted it then. They always stayed and helped me cradle my already too heavy pain. They knew what I would feel and that it was real. They went in deeper,beneath my surface on purpose. Something no one else wanted to do or so it would seem to me that no one really wanted me. My first love found in a man would be one that would feel much like my dad. Hands too rough and words never in the only shape Ive ever really wanted L O V E He Left more torn up marks on my heart. Heartbreak at 16, you would think i would have welcomed it like an old friend . that I would have tucked it up besides my heart hidden beneath my ribs, where pain was already rattling around in. pain makes us seek out comfort wrapped in deceit. I looked to the arms that made me weep for comfort. I never would find comfort there. for me there all I found are things that broke me. 16 I was 16 when the first piece of me truly died. I watched it die in her eyes. as the words scorching up my throat and heart left my lips. I watched as they connected the dots of things that mothers should not behind her eyes as the piece of me died. I was a daughter never cherished by my father, pain the only thing he gave for me to gain. I was a daughter never loved by my Mother given to men and left to defend alone the monsters my mother let in. Pain separated me from bonds that should have been. I would later see that the monsters I fought inside of me had always really been me . I grew up lonely both on the battlefield I was forced to Fight to survive in real life and inside the prison bar confides of my own mind. I fought and waged war constantly never knowing the enemy I had been fighting the whole time was always me. I don’t know who I am I died before I got the chance to even begin . Love is supposed to fill up your heart and shape you into the person you are. Teach you to swim in the depths of our own emotions. I never learned how to swim in the oceans I hold within. Ive been slowly drowning since I was a kid. Told that the validation I would grow to need like a drug, heroin to a fiend just so that I could feel something good inside the depths of MY being, a liferaft to keep me afloat was wrong of me to ever have a need. But How do I save myself from drowning beneath each giant wave my emotions bring crashing down around me. I cant swim in the ocean beneath my skin. Waves constantly crashing in and dragging me under. My air is running out and the only thing I hear people shout is SWIM!. as water replaces my lungs empty spaces. Blood hurts more than water its true but let love boil the water and it will still hurt you just as much too. Never feeling loved by my makers I searched for it in other spaces. Except the only place it should have been. My children you will never know of the force of love I hold for them. But I am still only a human. Trapped and stunted in the child that has been calling out in pain. So many lessons I have gained I see them now neatly wrapped up in my pain. I have been told by the ones I love both with and without blood, that I am too much because of my pain. Yet when I agree and try to erase me I am told to stay as they then walk away. Why. Why. Why Do I have to stay and everyone else gets to walk away from the darkness that takes my light away. Happiness feels almost like a myth a conjured up dream to dangle just out of my reach. And I have been told that its happiness I thieve from those around me. What kind of monster does that make me. That I would take the thing I so desperately need from someone that I love. It has been told to me that I am the creator of my own misery. That I should be a better human being and stop claiming to be the victim to the things that have brought death to my mind so many times. When I reach for help. Water rushing in as my screams are ripped out. Never a hand has been held out. Only the boots of blame and shame to push me further down. My pleas have begun to fade out. my voice is weakened by the consistent beacon, the sos hanging above my head running down my eyes and out my wrists that everyone claims to miss. No one will hear me if they don’t believe me. How do I convince them my pain is real. it means its me I have to kill. Then everyone will say I had been real and not the ghost I thought I had been when i was drowning and didn’t know how to swim.
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2024.05.19 08:35 Heroman3003 Taking Care of Broken Birds [Part 3]
More misery bird? More misery bird. Really miserymaxxing with these fics I have going, but hey, this one is not that miserable actually! Krekos is back and ready to be dense and downcast, but maybe not quite miserable? Read and see!
Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Memory transcription subject: Krekos, Krakotl Refugee
Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didn’t feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
“Are you doing this now? Really?”, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators aren’t yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. It’s telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didn’t forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I can’t say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than I’d expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one that’s usually the target of flock’s ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasn’t too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved I’ve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! That’s how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldn’t pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isn’t actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I don’t know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones I’d start following even without them being established, so I won’t have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
As if following the rules will be enough to make them like you.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterday’s incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earth’s non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I haven’t told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didn’t want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe that’s the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that I’ve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
And you expect to start studying again with that attitude? You’ll flunk out even from this primitive predator education course.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. It’s the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they can’t deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or pack’s, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the loner’s behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldn’t be back until afternoon, and they’d never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldn’t they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lena’s insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didn’t have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
“Mr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!”, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
“Hello, Rosie. Why are you here?”
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
“I just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?”
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
“They did tell me visitors are allowed as long as there’s no trouble when I first moved in.”
And before I could type a followup message asking her why she’s here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
“Can I see the chickens?”, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
“Wait! You’ll scare them!”, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she can’t understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didn’t start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe that’s where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
“Grandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think they’re cute.”, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosie’s grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
“Does your grandfather know you’re here?”
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
“...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.”
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
“...he doesn’t know I’m here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...”, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldn’t help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
“I’m sorry... But if I told grandpa, he’d tell me I’m forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! You’re nice and you’re a space bird!”
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I don’t know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and I’d rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, I’d rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they aren’t allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
“I see. What did you want to talk to me about then?”, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
“I wanna know more about space! And aliens! It’s all so cool but grandpa says it’s all dangerous because mom and dad died. But it’s not! The hedgehog people were nice, and you’re nice too!”
I wasn’t sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldn’t try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
“I am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.”
“But you’re from there! You know way more than me. I don’t even know what you are called. And there’s gotta be cool things out in space!”
I let out a sigh. I suppose it’s childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
And then you let your teacher die.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
“Okay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.”
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
“Yes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!” Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. “I dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?”
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I won’t disappoint her then.
“I am from a species called ‘krakotl’. We’re avians, as is obvious. Our home is...”dead, gone, reduced to glass and ash by our own hubris “...was Nishtal. A beautiful planet...”
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
“What about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but they’re the only ones I know name of.”
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
“They are called ‘gojid’, and they’re from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.”
I am not sure if that’s something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didn’t want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but there’s still joy left in her. I wouldn’t want to be the one to ruin that.
“Cool! What about other people? I wanna know more!”
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. It’s weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isn’t just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly aren’t too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didn’t know much of. I told her about Venlil Prime’s tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasn’t. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
Not that I, of all people, deserved it...
“Hey! Stop that!”
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasn’t directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
“What are you doing?! Don’t touch them!”
I didn’t want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didn’t want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
“Sorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.” She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
“That was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?”, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
“They’re chickens! They aren’t dangerous. They don’t peck that painful and I’ve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.”
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
“Mwah! There, all better.”
She did a human ‘kiss’ on the back of the cattle bird’s neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, I’ve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
“You gotta kiss it so it heals better! That’s what mom taught me.” The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasn’t unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldn’t be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if that’s the case, maybe that’s how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
“I see. I did not know that.” I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole ‘watching a human child’ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
“Wait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?” She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
“It’s nearly twelve.” I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
“Oh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!”
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lena’s car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
“...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.”
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesn’t mean their son won’t be... I felt the panic rising as I realized I’d need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
“Ken, you said it’s going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?” Lena’s voice. She should have told him, that’d give me time to prepare why didn’t they give me time why.
“No, no problems, just, really surprised, that’s all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? You’re really... trembly.”
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
“I-I’m fine...”
...thankfully translators don’t translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
“Hey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didn’t think...” He looks over at Lena and Reginald. “Calm down... I can wear my visor if you want?”
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
“I... I’m good...”
Why would it last? It almost felt good after all.
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young human’s face, as he sighed and shook his head.
“I screwed this up, I’m sorry. Let... Let me try again.” He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. “Hello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told you’re a refugee they took in to help out. It’s nice to meet you. What’s your name?”
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald weren’t. That’s a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
“My name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. It’s... nice to meet you?”
The smile on Kenneth’s face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didn’t want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
“You know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought it’d be that literal.”
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
“Let’s head inside. Krekos, we’re having dinner, you’re welcome to join us.” Reginald said, picking up Kenneth’s bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. “We will be having meat... But there’s still going to be stuff you can eat too. It’s a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.”
“Dad, you shouldn’t have!” Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
“None of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know you’re still... uncertain about meat so you don’t—”
“I’ll join.”
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
“That’s great to hear! I’ve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that you’ll enjoy!” Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didn’t notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And that’s how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldn’t be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, I’ll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
Like you could ever be on the same level as humans.
“So, Fahl? That’s where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?” Lena asked.
“Yeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.”
That’s right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
“Honestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!”
I couldn’t resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kenneth’s attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
“So, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.”
That’s a weird question. Isn’t it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?”
“I’m from Nishtal.”
“No, no, that’s not what I meant,” Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, “I meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but it’s not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place they’d be.”
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasn’t about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the human’s anticipating stare before I answered.
“I did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.” I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
“Oh.”
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldn’t take it.
“I-I’m full... Thank you for the meal.” I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew it’s not safe to just fly over other people’s territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
Flying away from any danger is the only thing I’m good for anyway. The only thing I ever do.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like I’m actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but it’s still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau it’s much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and you’re just fine, free to soar the skies...
Alone. With no one to ever share it with me again.
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on what’s below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time I’ve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
Swooping at them from the sky like a predator to intimidate them into behaving... Like an arxur warden.
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didn’t see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, it’d be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe that’s the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kenneth’s preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, I’d really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasn’t anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didn’t get nearly killed today... That’s nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
“Uh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? It’s just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didn’t think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please don’t worry about me?” He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. “I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.”
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginald’s weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldn’t understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
“N-No, it’s fine... I’m sorry for... intruding on you and your family.”
“No, no, dude, you’re fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I can’t believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. I’m not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know they’ll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dad’s judgment is to be trusted.” His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. “So, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?”
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasn’t sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of ‘friends’ is anyone they’re cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. You’d think translators would properly use ‘acquaintance’ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I can’t just say no, and... I can’t come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
“Yeah... I guess that’d be for the best.” I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
“Cool! Anyway, I’ll try to get some shuteye early, I couldn’t sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!”
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out ‘as we go from there’. So it’s not a schedule, it’s just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldn’t have to deal with humans’ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if there’s some required reading to prepare?
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Big thank you to NoP community for being great and supportive of my endeavors!
Also, obviously, big thanks to SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe and allowing fanfiction well to flow free!
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Date [standardized human time]: May 6th, 2137
I stare at the foul creature before me. Normally staring at something directly head on like that would be too predatory for me to do, but after nearly dying of bread yesterday, I didn’t feel patient enough to be gentle. The creature stared right back, though in a much more natural, prey-like way, tilting its head slightly as it looked back at me with one eye and let out a long bwok.
“Are you doing this now? Really?”, I ask, knowing full well it cannot respond.
Well, it can, if another bwok it made is any indication. Of course, translators aren’t yet advanced enough to translate non-sapient speech, but the intention behind sound is intuitively clear. It’s telling me to back off. Well, I tried the diplomatic approach at least.
Raising my wing I begin sliding the bird out of its nest, careful to keep any delicate joints out of its reach. It started clucking in upset indignation, struggling back and even trying to peck at me, but after realizing that I will not relent, it hopped out of the box and rushed out of the cattle house, revealing a single dead egg in the nesting box.
With relief, I finally pick up the last egg and head back to leave them at the house. Turns out that while Reginald didn’t forget to both lock them up yesterday and let them out today, he did neglect feeding them both times, as well as collecting the harvest. So when I was driven back here in early morning, the first thing I did was making sure they were taken care of. I can’t say the horrid birds looked in any way hungry, but the moment I poured the feeding grain for them, they attacked it with more viciousness than I’d expect of an actual predator. And yet only thirteen were present at the feeding, as the one that’s usually the target of flock’s ire remained in the cattle house yet again, Reginald leaving it to it, being unaware of its undesirable habit of trying to hatch dead eggs.
With eggs delivered, I flew my way to my usual spot atop the cattle house and could finally relax. The loner beast first made its way to feast on the scraps of the grain that other birds already all have had their fill of, so I wasn’t too concerned. Instead I tried to reflect on the morning I had so far.
Waking up at the hospital did make me momentarily panic before I remembered the precluding events. Not that I could properly panic, feeling the most starved I’ve been my whole life, and too weak to try flying out of the window. Thankfully, the breakfast they provided was actually well made with krakotl needs in mind, algae soup alongside a few slices of bread, this time without any horrid human ideas like putting eggs in there. Eggs! Turns out they put eggs in some kinds of bread! That’s how I got sick! Eggs! The thought of what I consumed even now made me queasy, and it definitely made breakfast a much less appetizing affair than it would have been without that knowledge, but back then the hunger won over the disgust.
Lena did keep her promise and came to pick me up extra early. Her being a staff member at the hospital gave her some extra privilege, I assume, hence why I was released without any forms needing to be filled out personally. She did have important business today too, which probably explained the earlyness and urgency of her driving me back to her house.
That did not mean I escaped her ire, however. While I couldn’t pinpoint anything to identify the man, as Bob was apparently a common name, that offered me bread, we did come to understanding that he was likely either unaware of the nutritional contents of it, or of extent to which the Cure-induced allergy would be affecting a krakotl. Yet, Lena seemed much angrier at me for failing to take any precautions. Turns out that was the purpose of medicinal injectors, epipens as humans call them, that were provided to me. I was supposed to have them on me in case I accidentally ingested contaminated food. Nobody told me that, I was just handed them back when I first received the necessities at the refugee camp and I had no clue what they were for. Then she also berated me for eating random food from strangers and ignoring bad flavors. Turns out that brioche bread isn’t actually bitter at all, and that was my body reacting to an allergen in it. Reaction that I unwisely elected to ignore, to further ire of my host. By the end, several new rules of my stay here were made, including not eating things I don’t know and always having at least one epipen on me. Thankfully, these rules would be ones I’d start following even without them being established, so I won’t have to concern myself with being kicked out over accidentally breaking them.
Trying to distract myself from thoughts of yesterday’s incident, I focused my attention on the flock. All birds accounted for, so at least I knew that my absence did not result in the predator coming to snatch one of them. I do not wish to insult my hosts, but Reginald is far from most attentive people in matters unrelated to his job, and I am not sure the birds were watched at all while I was out. Speaking of, my scannings of surrounding treelines revealed no sign of the predator today. Perhaps it departed to hunt elsewhere, or maybe it ventured too close to a more populated area and exterminators dealt with it.
Actually, did human exterminators work similar to Federation ones? I knew for a fact they had them, although they seemed like a market of private organizations if advertisements are anything to judge by. Still, what methods do they use? I know humans oppose fire, and do not believe in predatory taint, but surely they have measures to protect themselves? They are, by self-admission, far from the best natural predator, and I doubt Earth’s non-sapient predators would just leave humans be. Maybe I should call one of those human exterminator agencies and call them in to deal with that predator? I haven’t told Lena or Reginald about it, as I didn’t want to bother them, but it could pose a serious threat to the cattle, but maybe that’s the way I could resolve it without involving them?
I have not done nearly as much research into human culture and lifestyle as I should have, considering that I’ve lived on Earth for over half a year now, but the sheer width of the topic always overwhelmed me the moment I opened internet search app to the point where I just closed it right away.
Extra loud call from the flock made me refocus my attention on them, but it was nothing. Just the loner getting pecked extra hard and lashing out against assailants, causing a small aimless stampede as all the birds ran around in circles, puffing up at one another. The assailants now looked a lot more like victims. I could understand those birds more than I could humans at least. The loner bird is clearly an odd one out. It’s the only one repeatedly trying to hatch unfertilized eggs it lays, and it seems to always avoid the rest of the flock. Humans may deny the existence of Predator Disease, but they can’t deny that prey and predator both can and will sometimes behave in unnatural ways that may threaten the herd's safety. Or pack’s, in case of humans. Birds must know on instinctual level that the loner’s behavior is unnatural and are attempting to combat the Predator Disease on instinctual level. And since that is natural, I still will not interfere in this, unless the loner bird actually becomes a threat to others or will start getting too injured. The first time I attempted to pick one of the birds up was the only time for a good reason, as I have learned their viciousness all too well.
DING-DING
The sudden loud ring startled me enough that I nearly tumbled off the roof. Who would be coming over now? Lena and Reginald have left together and shouldn’t be back until afternoon, and they’d never use the bell. That means someone must be here for them. But wouldn’t they warn anyone to not come over? Especially with their plans for today.
With nobody to answer these questions, I had no choice but to go and discover the answer myself, flying up and over the house, towards the entrance gate. The moment I passed the house roof, I already saw a familiar silhouette. It was the human child from a few days ago.
Thankfully, Lena’s insistence on me carrying an epipen at all times meant I also carried my satchel at all times too, so I didn’t have to go grabbing my holopad, and took it out. But before I could even launch the translator TTS app to type out a greeting, the child was already hopping in place with excitement.
“Mr. Krekos! Hi! I came over to visit!”, she exclaimed, showing off her teeth in an unnerving expression of human joy. I simply tried to avoid that and focused on the pad, typing out my response.
“Hello, Rosie. Why are you here?”
The question was genuine, as the child was not carrying any more of that honey substance from last time.
“I just came over to visit you! Is that okay? Are Mr. and Ms. Vince okay with it?”
Visit... me? Why? While I was confused, I did instinctively type out a reply.
“They did tell me visitors are allowed as long as there’s no trouble when I first moved in.”
And before I could type a followup message asking her why she’s here, she already let out a joyous roar and ran past me.
“Can I see the chickens?”, she asked, and not waiting for an answer, rushed past the house and towards the cattle yard.
“Wait! You’ll scare them!”, I yell after her, but of course without a translator she can’t understand me as she runs like she already knows where to go.
And indeed she has, quickly rushing up to the open field where the birds were grazing. Thankfully she didn’t start chasing them, instead just approaching the flock from a distance and swaying in place, watching them with what I assume was some sort of predatory excitement at the sight of prey. Maybe that’s where the contained hunting instinct of human children showed themselves? In chasing small birds? I was still more subdued, considering she stopped shy of causing a small stampede, but still.
“Grandpa used to take me with him! He helped watch this farm until Mr. and Ms. Vince moved in. I like chickens! I think they’re cute.”, the child told me innocently as she kept swaying and watching as the beasts grazed upon insects of the pasture.
That revelation was... interesting. I suppose it makes sense that between the original owner of this land dying in the bombings and Lena and Reginald moving in, it would be unattended. With nobody to feed and watch over those things, they would be long dead for sure. And it was Rosie’s grandfather... Speaking of. I typed out my words.
“Does your grandfather know you’re here?”
She seemed to get a weird look as she stopped her excited swaying, fiddling with her hands instead. Looks like I asked the correct question.
“...he knows I am out visiting neighbors.”
That did not answer my question. I squinted at the human child, and she dipped her head as she continued.
“...he doesn’t know I’m here specifically. Or that an alien even lives here...”, she explained, her tone suddenly more sullen.
I couldn’t help but squint at that, and it appears that my expression was readable enough that even a human could see the suspicion, as she continued.
“I’m sorry... But if I told grandpa, he’d tell me I’m forbidden from talking to you, like he forbade me from talking to hedgehog people in town... But I want to talk to you! You’re nice and you’re a space bird!”
The child was actually working around the rules established by her guardian to come see me. I don’t know if I should be glad or concerned. Clearly, the man is anti-alien in his opinions, and I’d rather that kind of man not know about how close he lives to one. At the same time, I’d rather not encourage a child for lying to their guardian in order to meet a stranger they know they aren’t allowed to interact with... So I just took the middle path with my next message.
“I see. What did you want to talk to me about then?”, TTS speaks for me.
Her stiffened body language disappears, replaced again with earlier excitement.
“I wanna know more about space! And aliens! It’s all so cool but grandpa says it’s all dangerous because mom and dad died. But it’s not! The hedgehog people were nice, and you’re nice too!”
I wasn’t sure about that logic, but my self-preservation told me I shouldn’t try convincing her to go confessing. Instead I focused more on her chosen topic.
“I am not sure I am the best person to ask about space. I am not a scientist or traveler.”
“But you’re from there! You know way more than me. I don’t even know what you are called. And there’s gotta be cool things out in space!”
I let out a sigh. I suppose it’s childlike curiosity at its finest. So unfamiliar with mundane that it is a wonder. I remember being like that about becoming a doctor.
I quickly tapped on the pad.
“Okay, I can answer questions, but I may not know everything.”
The noise that came out of the girl was like a squeal of a panicked dossur as she started hopping and spinning in place.
“Yes! Yes! Thank you, Mr. Krekos!” Sudden movement did cause me to recoil a bit, which in turn caused her to cease her happy flailing and adjust her little dress. “I dunno where to start though... Hm... What are you?”
...for all my trepidation about not knowing answers, I should have anticipated that the questions she asks will be rather age-appropriate and on the same level as we learn in our first school classes. At least I won’t disappoint her then.
“I am from a species called ‘krakotl’. We’re avians, as is obvious. Our home is...”
Thankfully she did not question my hesitant pause. Instead she just nodded along.
“What about the hedgehog people? I already know venlil, but they’re the only ones I know name of.”
Hedgehog people in town she mentioned earlier. The only species I could think of that could be seen there would be the gojid. I have no clue what hedgehogs are, but probably some creature with visible similarity to them.
“They are called ‘gojid’, and they’re from gojid Cradle. Both of our species are... well, used to be known for our might and protecting other species of Federation.”
I am not sure if that’s something to brag about, considering... everything. But I didn’t want this child to get brought down with depressing regrets of our species. Let her know something nicer instead. She clearly lost a lot, but there’s still joy left in her. I wouldn’t want to be the one to ruin that.
“Cool! What about other people? I wanna know more!”
And so I went on, telling her about various species, although I mostly focused on ones in this new human-led union, only mentioning kolshians and farsul beyond that. It’s weird explaining to a child what a tilfish or a harchen looks like, but thankfully my holopad isn’t just a method of communicating with implant-less children. With access to interstellar web, I could easily pull up pictures of various alien species to show to her, even if she struggled to believe that some of them were even sapient purely based off of looks. With how varied species in Federation are, and how some of us admittedly aren’t too far physiologically from our more primal ancestors.
Among other topics, she asked me to tell her interesting things, which I didn’t know much of. I told her about Venlil Prime’s tidally locked status, a rarity among habitable planets, much less homeworlds for species. I told her about the unique architecture of Mileau, designed to accommodate both species of regular size and dossur themselves. I told her about Colia medical academies, some of the most beautiful medical facilities in the galaxy.
I wish I was more well-travelled, but I just wasn’t. My whole life, I never left Nishtal until the extermination fleet took me despite my protests. That may have been what saved my life...
“Hey! Stop that!”
I flinched as I heard the child yell, but quickly realized that it wasn’t directed at me. Instead, Rosie was rushing down towards the chicken flock, breaking up the fight in which the loner was being pecked by a few larger chickens. As the human child approached, the birds stopped their infighting and scattered in different directions, crowing in loud panic and discontent. On instinct, I found myself rushing towards the child, forgetting about translation entirely.
“What are you doing?! Don’t touch them!”
I didn’t want her to hurt the cattle accidentally, and I didn’t want her to get hurt by the angry birds in return. But, it seems like the moment the birds scattered, she was satisfied with her actions and turned back to me, wearing another one of her happy smiles.
“Sorry, Mr. Krekos, I just saw chickens being mean. Bad chickens.” She explained.
I was baffled. Why would she interfere like that? When I tried that back when I was just starting, that got me pecked! But with her, the birds just scattered. What if they pecked her?
I took the pad out again and started typing quickly.
“That was dangerous. Why did you do that? What if they attacked you? Why are you even interfering in their natural dynamics?”, questions flowed out of my pad with an artificial human voice.
The girl simply giggled.
“They’re chickens! They aren’t dangerous. They don’t peck that painful and I’ve been scratched worse before. And I have to stop it because bullying is wrong.”
Then she actually noticed that the one that was being attacked wandered close. She casually approached it from behind, the blind spot and just reached down and grabbed it, picking the bird up. I was ready to rush to help the bird when...
“Mwah! There, all better.”
She did a human ‘kiss’ on the back of the cattle bird’s neck before releasing it, the surprise of it causing it to rush off. I knew what kisses were, I’ve seen enough of them between Lena and Reginald, but I believed they were gestures of intimate affection, not... what was even that?
It seems Rosie noticed my confusion as she explained.
“You gotta kiss it so it heals better! That’s what mom taught me.” The child displayed that smile of hers shamelessly. With how much I was being exposed to it, it almost wasn’t unnerving anymore. Still, it was interesting to learn that kisses are seen as something that helps wounds. I guess some species do have saliva with mild antiseptic properties, wouldn’t be too out there to assume humans are the same. And if that’s the case, maybe that’s how the kissing tradition started? Exchange of protective fluid between lovers?
“I see. I did not know that.” I responded before letting my puffed feathers relax. Okay, this whole ‘watching a human child’ thing is turning out to somehow be even more stressful than I expected at first.
“Wait, Mr. Krekos, what time is it?” She suddenly asked, looking up at the sky.
“It’s nearly twelve.” I respond, holopad having a convenient clock for local time.
“Oh no! I need to be home soon! Was nice seeing you Mr. Krekos gotta go bye!”
Before I had even a chance at typing out an answer or my own goodbye, the child sprinted away and back towards the entrance. I had to take flight just to keep up, and even then she just turned around, waved her arm at me and then kept sprinting down the road after leaving the gate. I simply offered a small wave of a wing back before locking the gate again. I suppose it is hard to keep track of time without a device or clock nearby...
Well, at least I had the usual peace and quiet now. And learned a bit more about the creatures I was in charge of. I should really try to deal with my aversion to looking things up on the human internet...
Just as I was about to head back out towards the yard, I heard a loud car horn, a familiar one, getting my attention. Lena’s car. There they were, signaling me, probably having spotted me at the gate from afar. Deciding to make use of my presence here, and hoping to avoid needing to explain that I had a surprise visitor earlier, I went ahead and opened the large gate, allowing the car to enter.
Once it was parked in the usual space, the doors opened and three people came out. Lena and Reginald were both looking a bit disheveled, but their faces carried these smiles that seemed wider than ever before. And third person... Was a stranger. A human I knew of, but never actually met. As he exited the car, a large bag in one hand, he just stared at me, standing in the front yard...
“...okay, I expected many things when I was told you guys housed a refugee, but not this.”
Oh no. Oh no, he was not one of the ones that was willing to overlook an invader that partook in bombing of his planet being allowed to walk free, of course, Lena and Reginald were the weird ones like that, doesn’t mean their son won’t be... I felt the panic rising as I realized I’d need to return to the camp. Why was I upset about that? This was supposed to just have been a way to make money, but now I have a free education program. Do I need to stay? No, but... Why?! Why do I not want to leave?
“Ken, you said it’s going to be alright no matter what it is, right? Wanted us to keep it a surprise to meet a new friend?” Lena’s voice. She should have told him, that’d give me time to prepare why didn’t they give me time why.
“No, no problems, just, really surprised, that’s all... uh... hey, buddy, you okay? You’re really... trembly.”
He was approaching me, and instinct took over as I recoiled, before stuttering out my answer.
“I-I’m fine...”
...thankfully translators don’t translate voice cracks. I hope, at least...
“Hey, relax... I have no problem with you being a krakotl, I just didn’t think...” He looks over at Lena and Reginald. “Calm down... I can wear my visor if you want?”
Right. Those things humans use to hide their scary faces from us.
“I... I’m good...”
There was some emotion I struggled to read on the young human’s face, as he sighed and shook his head.
“I screwed this up, I’m sorry. Let... Let me try again.” He straightened out, and adjusted his clothing, before slowly approaching me and giving me a small smile, no teeth showing. “Hello. My name is Kenneth Vince and I'm son of Lena and Reginald Vince. I was told you’re a refugee they took in to help out. It’s nice to meet you. What’s your name?”
That... snapped me out of it. Right... He was... not upset at my existence. He was just very surprised that Lena and Reginald weren’t. That’s a reasonable thing to be surprised about, considering I was surprised about it to this day. I tried to compose myself as I responded.
“My name is Krekos. I live here as... hired help with the cattle. It’s... nice to meet you?”
The smile on Kenneth’s face widens, though he still refrains from showing his teeth. Instead, he extends a hand towards me. A handshake is a human gesture that I found far from comfortable, but I didn’t want to give him a reason to change his mind on acceptability of my existence, so I took it with a wingclaw. He gently took it and held for a few seconds before letting go and sighing again, turning to his parents.
“You know, I always thought you guys would be empty nesters, but I never thought it’d be that literal.”
That got all three of them laughing, as I just tilted my head in confusion. I was fairly sure there were no empty nests in the house until after I adjusted the attic room for my own accommodations. Still, I took the laughter as a sign that the tense moment had fully passed and let my ruffled feathers slowly rest.
“Let’s head inside. Krekos, we’re having dinner, you’re welcome to join us.” Reginald said, picking up Kenneth’s bag. I tilted my head a little and he followed up with elaboration. “We will be having meat... But there’s still going to be stuff you can eat too. It’s a celebration, so I prepared a bit of everything.”
“Dad, you shouldn’t have!” Kenneth responded with embarrassment.
“None of that! Our son returned from the war, alive and a hero, and we can have a celebration. Krekos, I know you’re still... uncertain about meat so you don’t—”
“I’ll join.”
Wait, who said that? And why did they say that in my voice?
Wait, that was me. Why did I say that?
“That’s great to hear! I’ve got some nice steamed broccoli and some vegetarian fried rice as sides that you’ll enjoy!” Reginald smiled at me and I felt myself shrinking into my feathers. That the humans didn’t notice at least, proceeding into the house instead.
Well, looks like I signed my warrant. At least my bag and my epipen were on me in case something at the table triggers the allergy again. Would be rather unfortunate to have it happen two days in a row.
And that’s how, in just ten or so minutes, I found myself sitting at the dining perch, while humans took seats in chairs, all consuming chunks of roasted flesh and somehow managing to also stuff pieces of equally roasted plants in, and converse with one another. You wouldn’t be able to tell on first look, but despite their mouths being relatively small, especially for a predator, it seems they compensate for it by having those be near bottomless in both hunger and small talk.
I am not sure how I managed to shift my focus away from them consuming animal matter in front of me, however vat grown it might have been, and onto their conversation instead, but I succeeded. I suppose that was just part of me going native around predators. Soon, I’ll be the one feasting along with them before I know it, and snacking on those epipens to not die of it.
“So, Fahl? That’s where you were sent after the Battle of Earth?” Lena asked.
“Yeah. From what I heard, we got a light posting compared to guys at Sillis or Mileau. The most I had to deal with was some exterminator insurgents.”
That’s right. Since harchen participated in the Extermination Fleet, they were one of those who were occupied by humans during the war. It makes sense that there was at least some ground resistance.
“Honestly, the worst thing out there was the heat. Not the flamethrower kind, the climate. The place was so damn dry and hot. At least exterminators you could subdue or evade. Not so much with the scorching sun!”
I couldn’t resist a small chuckle at the idea of a predator being more afraid of hot weather than flamethrowers as I slowly pecked at the vegetables on my plate. Thankfully it was set far enough aside from any meat dishes that no contamination should occur, but I was still examining pieces before putting them in my mouth just in case.
Seems like reacting was a mistake though, as that brought Kenneth’s attention onto me. He finished chewing latest piece of flesh and pointed a fork at me.
“So, Krekos... Where are you from? Cradle was my guess, but I do know there were refugees from other places like Sillis too.”
That’s a weird question. Isn’t it kind of to be expected for a krakotl to be from our actual homeworld?”
“I’m from Nishtal.”
“No, no, that’s not what I meant,” Kenneth chuckled, tossing a piece of broccoli into his mouth and swallowing before continuing, “I meant, where did you live? I kind of assumed you were born there, but it’s not like Nishtal had a chance to send refugees out, and if they did, this is the last place they’d be.”
Oh... I caught concerned looks of Lena and Reginald, looking between me and Kenneth from both sides. Not only did they not make him aware that I was a krakotl, they also neglected to mention just how I came by my refugee status... Which was just a legal workaround to grant me asylum without unnecessary complications or establishing undesirable precedent. Legally, I may be a refugee, but practically... I am a defector. Lena and Reginald know that, I told them my story before. And while they were weirdly accepting, Kenneth... Fought extermination fleet here on Earth. Personally.
Still, I wasn’t about to lie. It took a few moments and gathering mental strength to steel myself, and averting my eyes, focusing on the plate of warm vegetables in front of me rather than the human’s anticipating stare before I answered.
“I did live on Nishtal. I... I came with the extermination fleet.” I responded, doing my best to avoid looking at him. I did not want to witness his reaction, for some reason the thought of seeing it weighed heavy on my mind.
“Oh.”
The response was simple, and had no followup. There was no more clinking of cutlery against plates, or chewing. The only thing hanging in the air of the kitchen was silence, weighing down on me. It dragged on and on... until it just got so unbearable I couldn’t take it.
“I-I’m full... Thank you for the meal.” I quickly said, hopping off the perch and stepping out of the kitchen, quickly making my way to the yard and taking flight.
Fresh air of the outside and rush of it as I flew up and gained speed... I missed that. I knew it’s not safe to just fly over other people’s territory, so I corrected my course into doing large sweeping circles over the cattle yard and simply let my wings carry me.
I closed my eyes. With them closed and not focusing on my angle it feels like I’m actually flying away from all the troubles. Away from humans who barely tolerate my existence, away from gojid who see me as worse than a predator, away from Earth and all its incorrigible customs, away from horrid cattle, away from constant memories...
Flying feels nice. It may be a bit harder than it was home, but it’s still possible. I heard that on Venlil Prime or Mileau it’s much harder. But here? Just an extra flap of wings for every few paces and you’re just fine, free to soar the skies...
Slowly I let my eyes open back to the bleak reality. Greenery of surrounding pastures and woods, bright blue skies and farmhouses dotted about here and there greeted me. I lowered my gaze down, focusing on what’s below. There they were, fourteen brown and black dots spread around the enclosed portion of the farm territory. I am not sure how much time I’ve spent flying in circles and trying to forget things but my wings were feeling a tad sore. Then as I just began slow descent, in same circular motion, I noticed that one of the birds, a familiar one, was being chased by several others. Recounting the morning, I tried putting the knowledge to action, and shifted direction of descent, swooping down. To my surprise, that actually worked, as the moment I got close to the ground, the cattle birds all got much louder and scattered in all directions, including the loner. Who, at least this time, got off unharmed. I suppose such pathetic flightless creatures would fear a flying one much more than they would when I just run up to them...
With the fight preemptively broken up, I flutter up to the roof of the cattle house, to my usual position and rested my wings. I didn’t see any movement from the direction of the house, so I suppose the family is still busy unpacking. Since Kenneth joined the military just before the Battle of Earth, and Lena and Reginald only moved here after their actual house in city of New York got destroyed, it’d be the first time the human is seeing what is basically his new home. There was a room set aside for him since before I even moved in, and while there is also a guest room... That one did not have a large enough window to fit through, which did not feel comfortable. So when I asked for a space with a bigger window they only had an attic to offer. They seemed uncomfortable letting me live in a tiny room with slanted roof, but I found such space more comforting than I would have a large room with a window not large enough to fit even one fully spread wing through.
I wonder if Kenneth will need as much renovation as I did? The house is built for humans, but he never lived there before. Will he need to buy a more comfortable bed? Getting a proper nesting setup in place of a bed took a bit of effort, but I figured something out. Human sheets were comfortable enough for such, and sitting perches were thankfully not that hard to get thanks to help from the refugee administration. Maybe that’s the things that Lena went to buy yesterday? Kenneth’s preferred room decor?
I looked up to the sky to see the sun beginning to dim. I am not sure if it was me flying that long, or me losing track of time in my thoughts again, but the sun was beginning to set. I began my usual chores, putting out an evening meal and water for the beasts, and while they feasted, ate some myself. I was a bit hungry, having not properly finished lunch and about to skip dinner, but after the earlier conversation, I’d really rather avoid giving them the opportunity to talk to me.
After the birds had their fill, and by that I mean they emptied the tray as they always do, I let out the call, and they started funneling into the cattle house. The lonely straggler being first to go and hop into its nesting box. I bet tomorrow I will have trouble with getting her out of there again...
I took the moment to gather some eggs the birds left over course of the day, and once that was over and all of them were accounted for, I closed it up. When I flew down over to the house, there wasn’t anyone by the back door thankfully, so I just left eggs there, returned the basket, and returned to my room through the window.
Well, at least I didn’t get nearly killed today... That’s nice I guess?
I was about to check my holopad when there was a knock on the door. I approached and opened it to see... Kenneth. Standing in the doorway.
“Uh, hi, Krekos. I just, uh... Wanted to apologize again. I really wish mom and dad told me everything ahead of time... I just want you to know, I have no problems with you whatsoever, yeah? It’s just. Surprising, I guess, to hear all that. I didn’t think there were any defectors from the fleet at all... Just. Uh, please don’t worry about me?” He offered me a small smile, showing his canines before quickly correcting himself and doing a closed-lip one. “I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories or make you feel unwelcome.”
I had to take a moment to contemplate his words. Was Lena and Reginald’s weirdness hereditary? He almost reminded me of how Reginald talked to me early on, with constant stumbling over the words, as well as constant reassurances that he is fine with me being here. Couple that with failing to avoid predatory mannerisms like eye contact and smiles like Lena tends to and you get this human. But most importantly and least understandably, there was the general fact of him and them just... welcoming me. I couldn’t understand why. I should be one sorry to them.
“N-No, it’s fine... I’m sorry for... intruding on you and your family.”
“No, no, dude, you’re fine! I mean, hell, I was considering entering one of those exchange programs before the bombings happened, and even after, well, I did my best at Fahl to be the perfect friendly soldier just there to make sure no more bombs drop on my home and not kill or conquer anyone. And then mom told me your story, and I can’t believe it... Just... If you have any issues, feel free to tell me. I’m not one of those racist pricks that are too pussy to even call themselves HF anymore because they know they’ll get their teeth knocked. I get that there aren't good or bad species, just people. And you seem like a decent guy if mom and dad’s judgment is to be trusted.” His smile widened, though it was clear from tension on his face that he had to take conscious effort to keep teeth hidden. “So, what I said earlier stands. Friends, right?”
He extends hand forward, for a second time today. I wasn’t sure if I knew this human long enough to call him a friend... Any human really. But it also seems like human definition of ‘friends’ is anyone they’re cordial and peaceful with. Which is weird. You’d think translators would properly use ‘acquaintance’ for that.
Still... We will be living in the same house now. I can’t just say no, and... I can’t come up with a reason to say no. Even him being a predator and a human is not something I could really say I object to, considering how... mundane that became to me over my time here.
So, with naught on my mind but acceptance of the situation, I extended my wing and grasped his hand with my claw. This time he actually gripped it tightly and moved it up and down, as I saw other humans do occasionally.
“Yeah... I guess that’d be for the best.” I responded, shrugging off the hesitation. Fresh start for a third time, I guess?
The human grinned, forgetting to hide his teeth entirely, but I was ready for it somehow and avoided outwardly reacting.
“Cool! Anyway, I’ll try to get some shuteye early, I couldn’t sleep on the overnight flight home. See ya!”
And with that he left. Well... That meeting went well I suppose?
I returned to my nest and picked up my holopad, returning to what I was doing. And there it was, something I awaited every day. A notification that I was messaged on mailing app. Opening the letter revealed the schedule for the study program. Which... only had one day marked on it. And a note that the rest of it will be figured out ‘as we go from there’. So it’s not a schedule, it’s just a mark for the day of the first meeting.
While a bit underwhelming, it was still exciting. It would be an all-alien class so I wouldn’t have to deal with humans’ incomprehensibility nearly as much, and it would allow me to finally return to pursuing what I actually dreamt of. Even if I wasn’t entirely sure that was precisely what I wanted after everything that happened, it was at least something for me to move towards.
...just two days until start. I wonder if there’s some required reading to prepare?
2024.05.19 08:14 12345mmww itinerary check please!
please note im a solo travler!
August 13
6:15 landing Narita International → Naritasan Temple → Taito hotel
submitted by 12345mmww to JapanTravel [link] [comments]
August 13
6:15 landing Narita International → Naritasan Temple → Taito hotel
- Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
- Sensoji Temple
- Ueno Park
- AmeyaYokocho
- Tokyo skytree
- Akihabara
- Food
- Rokunisha
- Tendon tenya
- Torizoku
- Tsukiji market
- omlet/seafood bowl
- Tsukishima monja street
- Nezu shrine
- Ochanomizu
- Food
- Motomura
- Shibuya crossing
- Omotesando
- Takeshita Doori
- Meiji Jingu
- Nakano Broadway
- Omoide yokocho
- Food
- Mutekiya ramen
- Yakinku beef tounge lmeon shinjuku
- Roast beef ono
- Azanudai hills
- Toko tower
- Teamlab
- Food
- HARBS/motomura
- Location: ZOZO Marine Stadium & Makuhari Messe
- August 17-18, open 9 am start 11 am
- Ticket pickup at 7/11
- TBD
- 2:40 PM TAKEOFF
2024.05.19 06:51 xOaklandApertures Y’all soft
 | Oh man. I just joined this sub as I want to see the reaction to the drake beef and I think drake is a fucking clown and it’s so enjoyable to see Kendrick destroy him. But it’s crazy how everyone on here is “hood” . I’m pretty sure that 90% of y’all is Michael Bolton(see attached) and the rest might actually be from a sketchy part of town. It’s ridiculous to hear the way people type on here. This is Reddit stop acting like your hood. If Kendrick were to meet most of you he’d rap much worse about you for pretending to be someone your not. So stop the bullshit frontin and talk like you do in your other comments in other subs when I check your history. submitted by xOaklandApertures to KendrickLamar [link] [comments] Or as Kendrick would say Take off the foo-foo Take off the clout chase Take off the Wi-Fi Take off the money phone Take off the car loan Take off the flex and the white loss Take off the weird-ass jewelry I'ma take ten steps Then I'm takin' off top five Take off them fabricated streams And them microwave memes It's a real world outside (take that shit off) Take off your idols Take off the runway I take off to Cairo (take that shit off) Take off to Saint-Tropez Five day stay, take a quarter mil' Hell, if I know (take that shit) Take off the front flag Take off perception Take off the cop with the eye patch (take that shit off) Take off the unloyal Take off the unsure Take off decisions I lack (take it off) Take off the fake deep Take off the fake woke Take off the I'm broke, I care (take it off) Take off the gossip Take off the new logic, that if I'm rich, I'm rare (take it off) Take off the Chanel Take off the Dolce Take off the Birkin bag (take it off) Take all that designer bullshit off And what do you have? (bitch) Huh, huh, uh, you ugly as f*ck |
2024.05.19 06:03 DeeManJohnsonIII My second smoke!
 | Literally best corn I’ve ever had; and best rib eye I’ve ever made. Smoked the ribeye for thirty minutes and then seared it, came out super flavorful and amazing! Then the corn, the corn!!!! The texture threw me off at first since I never had smoked corn before, but after two more bites I was so into it. Used hickory smoke, would have used mesquite but used that yesterday. submitted by DeeManJohnsonIII to smoking [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 05:51 jrdd_4444 Somebody is PLASTERED and f’ing up their makeup. 🤡
 | I tuned in for the first time in forever and yikes! Also, put that roast beef away please!!!! 🤢 Just wow. submitted by jrdd_4444 to hipeeharlee [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 05:50 Callan_LXIX Bone broth tastes like.. Bones
I've tried making bone broth a few different times and I've heard that by using acidity and longer cooking times you draw more minerals. I've done stove top four to 12 hours which was okay. I did a 72-hour slow simmer and it tasted like minerals not even any meat at whatsoever. Lately I've been kind of rushing the process appropriately by putting either raw or roasted beef bones or chicken in a pressure cooker, cover with water at about one or two teaspoons of salt and a few tablespoons of vinegar to draw minerals and break down collagen. The bones are definitely affected the soft portions of the bone or the poorest ones become more porous, chicken bones will crumble. But the problem is the taste. There is a moderate amount of meat on left on the bones and that comes right out into the broth for certain. Sometimes to meet us at very little flavor left afterwards picking it off the bones. The issue is how do I get it to taste less like dry bone water and towards something more palatable? For the record the 72-hour beef bone broth was nasty and I actually tossed it, it was effectively inedible. Whenever I do pressure cooked, roasted beef shanks, the results are very enjoyable, I get the broth, strained then I have the meat shreds that can go towards another dish, then there's to be fat that's used to swiftly grease pans, etc..
How do I rescue a bone broth from a strong bone taste?
I'm wondering if I should reconstitute it with some sauteed marijuana or mushrooms or tomato or miso?
Any helps on this?
submitted by Callan_LXIX to Cooking [link] [comments]
How do I rescue a bone broth from a strong bone taste?
I'm wondering if I should reconstitute it with some sauteed marijuana or mushrooms or tomato or miso?
Any helps on this?
2024.05.19 04:58 Several-Incident-315 I want to go back home and eat my mom’s food but I’m scared I’ll lose control and gain weight
I’ve lost a lot and am almost >! UW !< at this point. Losing my period and no energy to do much of anything. But my mental state is suffering a lot. I quit my job. There’s tension in my relationship because food is all I can think about. I have breakdowns.
I started crying while watching a movie because I was randomly thinking of like, my mom’s beef stew, or the family restaurant I grew up with’s chicken souvlaki with Greek salad and fries. These are things where the calories are “worth it”. I can maybe indulge but I won’t be disappointed. I want to go home and be comforted. But there’s no scale. Food or body. What if I gain weight? I could bring my food scale ofc. But not if my mom is cooking. I can’t calculate that.
Sleeping in my old bed again sounds so nice. I’m in my late twenties so this is pathetic, but to walk around the neighborhood, be fed, be with all of the cats, with no worries and with family after being alone except my boyfriend up here is all I really want. I want her beef stew, roast chicken, hell even stuff I didn’t even care for that much like stuffed peppers and spaghetti and meatballs. I might drive down on Monday.
submitted by Several-Incident-315 to EDAnonymous [link] [comments]
I started crying while watching a movie because I was randomly thinking of like, my mom’s beef stew, or the family restaurant I grew up with’s chicken souvlaki with Greek salad and fries. These are things where the calories are “worth it”. I can maybe indulge but I won’t be disappointed. I want to go home and be comforted. But there’s no scale. Food or body. What if I gain weight? I could bring my food scale ofc. But not if my mom is cooking. I can’t calculate that.
Sleeping in my old bed again sounds so nice. I’m in my late twenties so this is pathetic, but to walk around the neighborhood, be fed, be with all of the cats, with no worries and with family after being alone except my boyfriend up here is all I really want. I want her beef stew, roast chicken, hell even stuff I didn’t even care for that much like stuffed peppers and spaghetti and meatballs. I might drive down on Monday.
2024.05.19 04:53 Notorious2again Ham, roast beef, provolone, lettuce, tomato, shaved onion, and Calabrian chili mayo on a lightly toasted sub roll.
 | submitted by Notorious2again to Sandwiches [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 04:44 foookie One cheat day on my diet and thrush came back in the morning including all negative symptoms
I’m 18 days clean from quitting kratom, the kratom ended up causing terrible GI issues, bloating, oral thrush, joint pain and fatigue, burning eyes and headaches to name a few.
After stopping I decided to clean up my diet.
My diet consists of plain probiotic yogurt, blueberries, bananas, manuka honey.
Ground beef and eggs, avocados, apples and water and black coffee with some variation.
The last couple days my tongue was for the first time in a very long time healthy and pink looking, my bowel movements improved, not perfect but better!
My eyes were clear and not bloodshot, and no headaches and minimal bloating.
I ended up buying a steak sub for lunch Friday and had coconut curry rice for dinner and woke up with all my symptoms back 😔
Including anxiety, which had stabilized in the past week, today was really bad.
Just one day off my diet and it came back!
It looks like I need to cut out all rice and bread. My body rejects it.
Today I had a matcha latte with whole milk and I really solidified my symptoms.
I’m sad and venting,
Time to go back to what’s been working for me.
submitted by foookie to Candida [link] [comments]
After stopping I decided to clean up my diet.
My diet consists of plain probiotic yogurt, blueberries, bananas, manuka honey.
Ground beef and eggs, avocados, apples and water and black coffee with some variation.
The last couple days my tongue was for the first time in a very long time healthy and pink looking, my bowel movements improved, not perfect but better!
My eyes were clear and not bloodshot, and no headaches and minimal bloating.
I ended up buying a steak sub for lunch Friday and had coconut curry rice for dinner and woke up with all my symptoms back 😔
Including anxiety, which had stabilized in the past week, today was really bad.
Just one day off my diet and it came back!
It looks like I need to cut out all rice and bread. My body rejects it.
Today I had a matcha latte with whole milk and I really solidified my symptoms.
I’m sad and venting,
Time to go back to what’s been working for me.
2024.05.19 04:36 Sleepyavii Tips for skimming fat off of braised dishes?
Like pot roasts, beef short ribs. There’s always a large chunk of fat dilluting or breaking the sauce. . Any tips for easily removing this or will I always have to set them in the fridge overnight? I know it helps deeper flavors to develop, just don’t always have such forward planning.
submitted by Sleepyavii to Cooking [link] [comments]
2024.05.19 04:22 roxictoxy Roast my tasting menu for my stage on Monday.
Set app; Soup - roasted tomato, red pepper and feta bisque. Garnished with evoo, blistered cherry tomato and basil chif.
Shared app; tuna crudo - seared tuna with soy based sesame ginger dressing, fresh cucumber, scallion, micro greens Panko pearl onions - panko breaded fried onions with a classic dipping sauce and kewpie spicy mayo
Entree, family style; Seared seabass, creamy polenta, with local harvest ratatouille, shaved local parm
Roasted beef tenderloin, creamy mushroom sauce, sauteed root veg greens, roasted fingerlings
Dessert - local berry crisp, fresh whipped cream.
All veg except the peppers and tomatoes are local. The soup is just a solid soup, always a crowd pleaser.
The tuna crudo harkens back to my sushi past without over committing to a sushi dinner.
The panko pearl onions are a fun remix on a classic bar item; and is pandering to the preference of one of the family.
The seabass is a Mediterranean French inspired dish feels elevated while being simple to execute.
The tenderloin is really from the heart, as it brings nostalgia for the holidays and cooking for my family. A simple classic executed perfectly.
And the crisp is my favorite dessert to implement; simple and cheap, uses seasonal ingredients, is easily preprepped and stored, comfy and again CHEAP.
This isn't set in stone but the dinner is on Monday and I get to see the space tomorrow. I crose utilize ingredients like the tomato and pepper in the ratatouille and the beet/turnip greens from that veg for the steak.
submitted by roxictoxy to Chefit [link] [comments]
Shared app; tuna crudo - seared tuna with soy based sesame ginger dressing, fresh cucumber, scallion, micro greens Panko pearl onions - panko breaded fried onions with a classic dipping sauce and kewpie spicy mayo
Entree, family style; Seared seabass, creamy polenta, with local harvest ratatouille, shaved local parm
Roasted beef tenderloin, creamy mushroom sauce, sauteed root veg greens, roasted fingerlings
Dessert - local berry crisp, fresh whipped cream.
All veg except the peppers and tomatoes are local. The soup is just a solid soup, always a crowd pleaser.
The tuna crudo harkens back to my sushi past without over committing to a sushi dinner.
The panko pearl onions are a fun remix on a classic bar item; and is pandering to the preference of one of the family.
The seabass is a Mediterranean French inspired dish feels elevated while being simple to execute.
The tenderloin is really from the heart, as it brings nostalgia for the holidays and cooking for my family. A simple classic executed perfectly.
And the crisp is my favorite dessert to implement; simple and cheap, uses seasonal ingredients, is easily preprepped and stored, comfy and again CHEAP.
This isn't set in stone but the dinner is on Monday and I get to see the space tomorrow. I crose utilize ingredients like the tomato and pepper in the ratatouille and the beet/turnip greens from that veg for the steak.
2024.05.19 04:09 0rionaniO She looks cute here
 | Look, I roast Pepe whenever I get the chance,but this time I have to admit that she looks pretty here (ignoring the crooked fingers) I even think this it's one of the best panels of this episode, the hair is well drawn, the eyes are looking in the right direction, her expression is not so goofy or overdramatic, even the red eyes don't bother me. cheers for that 🙌🙌. submitted by 0rionaniO to UnpopularLoreOlympus [link] [comments] maybe one of these days I'll make my top favorite Pepe's panels |
2024.05.19 04:05 A-B-1-0 [homemade] Porterhouse steaks, long hot peppers, roasted peppers and green beans. Beef extravaganza night.
![[homemade] Porterhouse steaks, long hot peppers, roasted peppers and green beans. Beef extravaganza night.](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/MDwkg7fR6Ol0d4qukzNFf5gjk_o87tIJ_Ne79uP299w.jpg "[homemade] Porterhouse steaks, long hot peppers, roasted peppers and green beans. Beef extravaganza night.") | submitted by A-B-1-0 to food [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 03:41 MasterLezard WTF Happened To my Roast Beef Sub?
 | I've never had a sandwich from Wawa look like this. Plus it has provolone cheese, I ordered american, and I they didn't toast the entire sandwich. submitted by MasterLezard to Wawa [link] [comments] |