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2016.07.14 19:34 gear323 MVIS Stock Message Board on Reddit. Microvision technology and stock prices discussion. $MVIS
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2024.05.21 22:44 Ok-Log297 Is Severance the retelling of the story of Joshua???
I think a lot of Severance is really explained by how episode 2 opens. I've noticed this before, but kept forgetting to dive into it. But last night I put on episode 2 to fall asleep to, heard it again, and decided to look into it today.
So iMark shows up for work at the beginning of Ep 2 on his first full day as MDR supervisor. He's looking at the list of his new duties, he's doing all the office prep stuff, and the whole time they're playing "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho" as the music.
I truly believe there are no mistakes in this show. Everything has a reason.
So as I'm falling asleep last night, all I'm hearing is the music, I'm singing along in my head and thinking about being in second grade and performing this song with my class for one of the pagents, and then thinking, once again, "why this song?"
Some background: the Battle of Jericho itself, is where they marched around the city once a day for six days, blowing their ram horns (goat reference), and on the 7th day they marched around seven times, blowing their horns until the walls crumbled and they took the city. All fine and well. But... then I started thinking, "ok, but of all the songs they could use as Mark is setting up the office, WHY that song?"
More background: Joshua was the right hand/second behind Moses. He was with Moses when God gave Moses the commandments, but not when Moses wrote them down. Then Joshua was one of the 12 spies Moses sent into Canaan to see if they could settle there, and they were all asked to keep a good tone to the reports. The job of the spies was to map the land, see what the other settlements were doing, figure out if they could be taken over, and report back on the general state of what they had (agriculture, forestry, other resources, etc). When the spies returned, 10 gave mixed or negative reports, with only Joshua and Caleb giving glowing one. Because of this, only Joshua and Caleb were promised spots in the Promised Land. After Moses died, God appointed Joshua as his successor. Joshua then started leading them into Canaan to find places to settle, and the first battle that happened was the Battle of Jericho.
So... what if Petey is our Moses, and Mark is our Joshua? And Because Mark would have been with Petey as they wandered around, they learned what the floor was like, but then Petey wrote and left the "commandments" (aka the Map) when Mark wasn't there.
So now Mark is in charge. And though Petey/Moses is alive on the outside, and giving oMark some direction before he dies (about spying!), iMark is now his full successor inside. He was appointed by the Board/Cobel (the "god" in Severance, who, by the way, iMark never heard the voice of). At this point in time, for the innies, Petey is as good as dead. And, as an aside, there ARE 12 spies, because once they decide to join with O&D, there are 12 of them! (4 in MDR + 8 total in O&D) I double checked in the scene and have a picture.
So, the questions...
To answer some of the questions:
• I can see iIrv, when he puts the egg in the Kier book, being one of the spies being fed up with "the word of God" and broken promises.
• When iMark takes Helly on her "mental health walk" she eventually agrees to help clean up the map. And when they're with the big O&D group, they talk about trying to find out what else is going on down there, exploring, and mapping. This was the job of the 12 spies that Moses sent into Canaan.
• Even if you think about Petey, he looks old. Like older than he should, given what we could guess his age is. And he's wandering alone, lost in his own desert (the greenhouses) for awhile.
Also, he loves the robe. After Mark takes him in, we basically only see Petey in that robe from that point forward. It just reminds me of how many different biblical stories we re-enacted in various school plays, and the boys were always in their dads' bathrobes when they played any biblical characters.
We don't know a lot about Petey's real backstory, but when he leaves Mark's house after Cobel breaks in, he goes into one of his fugue states where he can't tell the difference between reality and being on the severed floor. He's holding the map he drew, and thinks he's following that as he walks across the bridge and into town. As though he is wandering, again, in his own mind desert. And Moses wandered, alone, then died on a mountain while looking over the Promised Land. Petey, after wandering alone, walks out of the convenience store, sees Mark in the distance, and collapses. So does Mark represent, in some way, the idea of the promised land (uncovering what Lumen is really up to on the severed floor) to Petey?
(My whole point there is that Petey really does fit the idea of being the Moses in this dissection of the story, lol)
TL;DR: could Petey be Moses, Mark be Joshua, and the whole show ultimately be about trying to lead the innies and their outies to their promised land (aka the truth of what's really happening on the severed floor)?
Anyway... it seems to fit. And I can't think of another reason to choose that song, out of any song they could have picked, to play during that scene. It was the real transfer of power, when iMark truly became the new leader, taking over even the mundane tasks of leadership in this culture that signaled, to them, that iPetey was gone.
Sure, it could be a stretch. But I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts, especially anyone who might be able to dissect the biblical stories better! 😊
submitted by Ok-Log297 to SeveranceAppleTVPlus [link] [comments]
So iMark shows up for work at the beginning of Ep 2 on his first full day as MDR supervisor. He's looking at the list of his new duties, he's doing all the office prep stuff, and the whole time they're playing "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho" as the music.
I truly believe there are no mistakes in this show. Everything has a reason.
So as I'm falling asleep last night, all I'm hearing is the music, I'm singing along in my head and thinking about being in second grade and performing this song with my class for one of the pagents, and then thinking, once again, "why this song?"
Some background: the Battle of Jericho itself, is where they marched around the city once a day for six days, blowing their ram horns (goat reference), and on the 7th day they marched around seven times, blowing their horns until the walls crumbled and they took the city. All fine and well. But... then I started thinking, "ok, but of all the songs they could use as Mark is setting up the office, WHY that song?"
More background: Joshua was the right hand/second behind Moses. He was with Moses when God gave Moses the commandments, but not when Moses wrote them down. Then Joshua was one of the 12 spies Moses sent into Canaan to see if they could settle there, and they were all asked to keep a good tone to the reports. The job of the spies was to map the land, see what the other settlements were doing, figure out if they could be taken over, and report back on the general state of what they had (agriculture, forestry, other resources, etc). When the spies returned, 10 gave mixed or negative reports, with only Joshua and Caleb giving glowing one. Because of this, only Joshua and Caleb were promised spots in the Promised Land. After Moses died, God appointed Joshua as his successor. Joshua then started leading them into Canaan to find places to settle, and the first battle that happened was the Battle of Jericho.
So... what if Petey is our Moses, and Mark is our Joshua? And Because Mark would have been with Petey as they wandered around, they learned what the floor was like, but then Petey wrote and left the "commandments" (aka the Map) when Mark wasn't there.
So now Mark is in charge. And though Petey/Moses is alive on the outside, and giving oMark some direction before he dies (about spying!), iMark is now his full successor inside. He was appointed by the Board/Cobel (the "god" in Severance, who, by the way, iMark never heard the voice of). At this point in time, for the innies, Petey is as good as dead. And, as an aside, there ARE 12 spies, because once they decide to join with O&D, there are 12 of them! (4 in MDR + 8 total in O&D) I double checked in the scene and have a picture.
So, the questions...
- What is the battle of Jericho?
- The next is the first battle of Ai, which they lose. What is it?
- The first battle of Ai is lost because one of them looted JerJericho for their own personal gain, which they weren't supposed to do, and beyraybetrayed the group. So who is the betrayer here? Who gets "paid off" by the company?
- What will be the successful battle for Ai? (Season 2 or 3?)
To answer some of the questions:
- I believe the Battle of Jericho is the innies breaching the MDR locked wall that gets installed. By the time it's installed, Petey is truly dead, so both oMark and iMark are his successor in the Moses/Joshua parallel. It's only at this point the battle could happen.
- The battle at Ai, that they lose the first time, could be them waking up in the final episode and it being thwarted. It's not clear (yet) what/how much they accomplished. TBD
- The reason the first battle at Ai is unsuccessful is because someone betrayed the group at Jericho by looting. So, if this analogy holds, did someone decide to take a payoff of some sort after the first overtime contingency test in episode 9? Maybe to stay out of the breakroom? I'm not pointing fingers, but Milchick was offering a lot of new incentives to Dylan, so I guess we'll have to see?
- If the 1st battle of Ai was the OTC in ep 9, then the second would have to be some sort of repeat. But in Joshua's story, the second time he goes with a small contingency and confronts the leaders, I believe (who think it'll be easy to take them down). Meanwhile, the city is lost and 12,000 perish. So... are they going to wake again but have a much better plan this time???
• I can see iIrv, when he puts the egg in the Kier book, being one of the spies being fed up with "the word of God" and broken promises.
• When iMark takes Helly on her "mental health walk" she eventually agrees to help clean up the map. And when they're with the big O&D group, they talk about trying to find out what else is going on down there, exploring, and mapping. This was the job of the 12 spies that Moses sent into Canaan.
• Even if you think about Petey, he looks old. Like older than he should, given what we could guess his age is. And he's wandering alone, lost in his own desert (the greenhouses) for awhile.
Also, he loves the robe. After Mark takes him in, we basically only see Petey in that robe from that point forward. It just reminds me of how many different biblical stories we re-enacted in various school plays, and the boys were always in their dads' bathrobes when they played any biblical characters.
We don't know a lot about Petey's real backstory, but when he leaves Mark's house after Cobel breaks in, he goes into one of his fugue states where he can't tell the difference between reality and being on the severed floor. He's holding the map he drew, and thinks he's following that as he walks across the bridge and into town. As though he is wandering, again, in his own mind desert. And Moses wandered, alone, then died on a mountain while looking over the Promised Land. Petey, after wandering alone, walks out of the convenience store, sees Mark in the distance, and collapses. So does Mark represent, in some way, the idea of the promised land (uncovering what Lumen is really up to on the severed floor) to Petey?
(My whole point there is that Petey really does fit the idea of being the Moses in this dissection of the story, lol)
TL;DR: could Petey be Moses, Mark be Joshua, and the whole show ultimately be about trying to lead the innies and their outies to their promised land (aka the truth of what's really happening on the severed floor)?
Anyway... it seems to fit. And I can't think of another reason to choose that song, out of any song they could have picked, to play during that scene. It was the real transfer of power, when iMark truly became the new leader, taking over even the mundane tasks of leadership in this culture that signaled, to them, that iPetey was gone.
Sure, it could be a stretch. But I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts, especially anyone who might be able to dissect the biblical stories better! 😊
2024.05.21 22:40 Still_Performance_39 An Introduction to Terran Zoology - Chapter 37
Credit to u/SpacePaladin15 for the NOP Universe.
Hey, I hope everyone's doing well!
Today we return to the namesake of this fic, an actual lesson about animals. This one focuses on Koalas! One of Australia's most recognisable critters. I hope you enjoy.
It's hardly worth mentioning, seeing as I'm an infrequent poster at the best of times, but I'll not have another chapter out for a few weeks due to limited free time and devoting most of my writing time to an upcoming ficnapping. Be sure to look out for that!
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Memory transcription subject: Rysel, Venlil Environmental Researcher
Date [Standardised human time]: 8th September 2136
“Koalas!”
Bernard’s energised voice boomed through the air as the classroom's monitor flickered into life, images of this paws lecture topic popping up one after the other until the entire screen was filled with a collage of furry quadrupeds.
Squee! I’ll never get tired of this, it’s all so cool!
As usual the sight of something new stirred immediate discussion, hushed murmurs swelling into vibrant discourse in little more than a heartbeat. Most of the class swiftly huddled together into small herds to bounce ideas around while the rest opted to stick to the solace of their own thoughts as they took in the display.
I’d be quite happy in either situation, though seeing as Sandi had already sunk into deep concentration and Kailo had peeled off to talk with Ennerif and Solenk, it seemed the decision had been made for me on this occasion. Wasting no more time on idle inspection of the people around me, I focused my full attention forward, eager to form first impressions before the lesson began in earnest.
Now then, time to make some educated guesses. What traits does this animal have? I wonder if I’ll get any right this paw?
Professional assumptions went paw-in-paw with the lectures, examining and coming up with hypotheses about the specimens was only natural. Recently however, I’d started to make a little game of it to make things even more interesting than usual. A veritable bonfire of ideas had been set ablaze within me, fueled by my newfound knowledge of Earthen wildlife. Every flash and spark of the flame was a fresh theory I could try to apply to the lectures. It was an invigorating exercise that further stoked my unceasing wonderment.
So far I’d only done this once during the previous class and, to my disappointment, I’d not done too well.
I was right when I guessed that chickens were omnivores, but wrong in my assumption that they could fly. And that red thing on their head, the um… what was it called? The comb! Yes, the comb. I thought that was to attract mates, but it regulates body heat instead. It’s fascinating. Oh! Stars damn it I’m rambling!
I bapped my tail against my leg, the soft thud being just enough to snap me back from my runaway thoughts before I went completely wall-eyed. I was becoming more and more accustomed to getting lost in my own head while remaining conscious of the fact; it was happening so frequently now that it was pretty much impossible not to. Now I was able to pull myself back to the world around me without having to rely on someone else shaking me out of it. Most of the time anyway.
Sandi still keeps an eye on me, and Kailo even decided to help out once without being too snide about it. Anyway where was I? Oh yeah, Koalas.
Glancing at the furred animals, two things immediately stood out. Firstly, their eyes were in a more central position on their face. And second, all the images showed them being on or close to trees. There were other noteworthy observations of course, such as the Koala’s prominent nose and rounded features, but they fell to the wayside as I honed in on these points first.
Hmmm… ok. I already know to discount the idea that they’re predators just from eye position, so let’s get that thought out of here. Maybe omnivorous? Herbivore? Agh no, I can’t just guess that for the sake of guessing, that’s the same problem! Hrm, it’s tough making these assumptions now that everything I thought I knew has been turned on its head.
Nevermind, I’ll focus on the other thing. All the trees make me think they’re arboreal, that seems to be a reasonable assumption. I wonder what else they-
Clearing his throat, Bernard broke my concentration, his call for attention silencing the murmuring conversation and redirecting everyone's focus to the lecturer's podium.
His gaze panned across the room as he waited for everyone to settle, a beaming smile lighting up his face, “As ever I’m delighted to see you all get so into the subject matter from the get go. I’m looking forward to hearing what you were discussing should you wish to share. For now though, how about we get started, hm?”
A chorus of merry bleats rang out from across the audience, ears and tails flicking happily in agreement. Bernard's grin grew in tandem with the class's fervour, clasping his hands together enthusiastically as he launched into the lesson, “Excellent! Then let’s get started.”
The pictures on screen dissolved away until only one remained, enlarging to cover the entire monitor with the fluffy grey face of a Koala peacefully reclining in the crook of a tree.
“Ah, there we are,” Bernard’s baritone timbre drifted through the room as he looked up at the image, his own tone reflecting the relaxed attitude of the animal on screen, “He looks so comfortable doesn’t he? Perfectly at peace with the world, not too surprising considering they sleep almost 20 hours a day. A full paw!”
A wave of beeps and gasps rippled through the herd, punctuated by a single yawn-dressed comment from Rova, “A full paw? Hwuuu… jealous.”
Her drowsy remark elicited several whistling giggles from the herd, Bernard's own jovial chortle joining them as he turned to face her, “Late evening Rova?”
I twisted a little in my seat, panning an eye in Rova’s direction just in time to see her bleary eyes bulge open and her ears shoot up, now intensely aware of the fact she hadn’t been as quiet as she thought she had.
Sitting up abruptly, she hastily tapped down errant tufts of wool that’d flared in surprise as she composed herself, though her nervousness at becoming the centre of the class's attention was still plain for all to hear, “Uh- I um… achem, a little bit yes, um- …sorry. Lokki dragged me out to a movie viewing in the rec centre. It went on pretty late.”
A melodramatic bray from the other side of the room drew everyone's ears away from Rova to the now aghast Lokki, paw splayed across his chest in faux indignation, “Dragged you? Well excuse me for trying to broaden your horizons with human movies. That’ll be the list time I- …Ahaaaa…”
Lokki’s theatrics were cut short by a heavy yawn of his own, a swell of whistling laughter rolling through the herd as vibrant bloom lit up his snout, a sight that elicited a particularly amused bleat from Rova.
Turning away from the duo I looked back at Bernard, pleased to see that he was chuckling along with us. Behaviour like Lokki’s would never have been tolerated in my school and university days but, in stark contrast, Bernard revelled in it, the liveliness of his students fueling his own bombastic style of teaching. It was a pleasant change of pace having a teacher who let us all be ourselves in class; provided we weren’t too disruptive to the lesson plan.
Speaking of which.
His laughter still rumbling through the air, Bernard clapped his hands to pull everyone's focus back to him, “Ok, ok, let’s get back to it then shall we? Rova. Lokki. Hopefully the two of you can stay awake long enough until you can grab yourselves a coffee.”
As the class settled down and the last few giggling beeps petered out, Benard pointed a hand to the screen, “So, the Koala. Let’s start simple shall we? They are herbivorous marsupials native to the eastern and southern coasts of Australia. Easily recognised the world over, they are a well known and beloved symbol of their homeland, along with other animals such as the Kangaroo and the Emu. The former of which you might remember from one of our earlier lectures.”
Indeed I did remember, along with how angry Bernard had gotten after some speh-head had derided the Yotul after he explained how he held specific disdain for such attitudes.
Uuuggghh… I never want to see him angry again. So chilling.
I shook my ears in an effort to dismiss the unpleasant memory, panning my eyes back to the monitor to try and distract myself by inspecting the Koala’s physical appearance once more. Thankfully, by some Star's blessed intervention, Bernard had the exact same idea.
“Koala’s are rather squat in stature, ranging around sixty to eighty-five centimetres in length and weighing little more than fifteen to sixteen kilograms at their full size. As you can see, the fur of this fellow before you is a lovely silvery grey, but their fur can also sport a chocolaty brown hue as well. Arguably the most distinctive part of their appearance is their head, being rather large for their body size and having rounded ears, a large nose, and a pair of small eyes. These are often brown but variations do occur.”
It didn’t slip past my notice that Bernard didn’t bother to point out that the Koala’s eyes were forward facing. I didn’t think he’d simply forgotten, so perhaps he just felt it wasn’t necessary given that he’d already stated it was herbivorous. Either way, no one stuck up a paw or tail to question him.
“Now this will hardly be surprising considering how long they sleep, but Koala’s are largely sedentary and it’s rather easy to see why when you have a look into the contents of their diet.”
With the press of a button the Koala on screen was replaced by images of vibrant green vegetation. Soaring trees and flowering shrubbery weaved together across landscape framed pictures pulled admiring trills from the herd, the diversity of the plant life being shown standing as a reminder that it wasn’t only animal life that flourished on Earth.
After giving everyone the chance to take in the picturesque scenes, Bernard casually hammered that point home, “This is eucalyptus or, more accurately, a choice selection of more than 700 plants belonging to the eucalyptus genus, though the Koala itself favours 30 of them in particular.”
700!? Stars…
Realising that my ears had drooped in my momentary awe, I twisted them back to tune into the lesson, only for them to splay out in shock at the next words to come out of Bernard's mouth.
“The leaves of these plants are the primary food source of the Koala and there are a couple things worth mentioning when talking about these plants. For starters they do not have much nutritional or caloric value, leading to the Koala’s low-energy lifestyle. Additionally, they contain toxic compounds.”
A shiver instantly ran through the herd, ears flicking rapidly in confusion and alarm followed by a few quizzical whispers. It didn’t take long for someone to decide to give a proper voice to the murmuring.
“Excuse me Doctor. Did we hear that right? Their diet is made up of toxic flora?” Vlek’s grumbling incredulity cut through the herd's mutterings with ease. Until Kailo’s recent change of heart, the fifty something rotation old blonde Venlil had been a close second in terms of scepticism. Mercifully his rebuttals had always been relevant questions as opposed to ranting diatribes, so he at least remained on topic if nothing else.
Bernard nodded in confirmation, smiling back at Vlek while absentmindedly twirling the end of his moustache, “You heard me right, they do indeed consume plants that are toxic. Just not to them.”
Any worry or uncertainty still clinging to the herd was swept away by the provision of the glaringly obvious answer, leaving me chuckling inwardly at the oversight.
Ah of course! The plant might be poisonous but they’ll have evolved to deal with that. Stars… I’m so used to expecting the unexpected with Earth that I didn’t even consider the simplest solution.
“I see, thank you Doctor,” Vlek replied, a tinge of interest still audible in his tone, “I assume they’ve developed some adaptation to become immune to the harmful effects?”
The question immediately evoked a smirk from our teacher, but he hurriedly suppressed it while bobbing his head, “They have indeed. There are several factors that aid in their digestion of eucalyptus leaves without succumbing to the plant's baleful properties. The first is a part of the intestinal tract called the cecum. It contains a microbiome that allows the Koala to digest the eucalyptus. Coupled with this is an enzyme in the Koala’s liver that helps them break down the toxins. They are also capable of sniffing out the plants with the least amount of toxins, ensuring that they ingest as little as possible.”
Pausing for a breath Bernard looked back at the screen before turning to face us, another grin curling at the edges of his mouth as he continued with his explanation, “This is mostly for adult Koala’s, because while their young also possess these same adaptations, they don’t just go straight to munching through foliage right after being born. No, they need a little help making that jump and getting a stomach full of all that good gut bacteria. It’s nothing bad, but those of a sensitive stomach may wish to prepare themselves for this next part.”
Bernard’s assurances did little to assuage the concern that his warning had foisted upon us. Having been exposed to so much of the weirdness Earth had to offer everyone always ended up on edge whenever Bernard gave advice like this, even if he did say it in jest.
What strange nonsense thing do Koala pups do then? Judging by the way he’s acting it probably isn’t something as simple as drinking milk from the mother. Hmmm…
“So,” Bernard began, snapping us from our pensive stupor, “Young Koala’s, known as joeys, have a gestation period of thirty-five days on average, which is approximately forty-two paws. Once born they travel from the birth canal to a pouch in their mother so that they can continue to develop and grow. In the pouch the joey finds and latches onto one of two teats and these provide the newborn with a steady stream of nourishing milk. It spends the next six to seven months growing in the pouch, its eyes, ears, and fur all developing as time goes on.”
Okay, interesting. But this is exactly how I thought it’d go. What’s different?
The unexpected normalcy of the Koala’s birth and growth cycle had calmed everyone's nerves, only to be replaced with an air of suspicion as we waited with rapt attention for Bernard to drop the other claw and upend our expectations like he always did.
Not wanting to keep us in further suspense he forged ahead, the tempo of his voice picking up as the smile started to crease his face once more, “Now to make the switch from milk to eucalyptus, the mother also feeds the joey a substance called pap. It comes from the cecum I mentioned earlier, and contains all the gut bacteria required to help the young Koala in making the switch to eucalyptus.”
He stopped and looked around, searching us for a reaction to what I felt was a rather bland statement of fact. What was it he was saying without actually saying? Koala pups drink milk to mature and then include this pap substance so that they can start eating plants. I don’t see what-
The cecum is part of the intestine.
I blinked.
I blinked again, the intrusive interruption scouring my brain clean of any other thought bar the one it’d just implanted itself in the forefront of my mind.
Oh stars. They-
“They eat their own poop!?”
The shocked bleat shattered the peace of the room to reveal that most if not all of us had come to the same tail curling conclusion. As the hall filled with unrestrained vocalisations of disgust, an ‘Ugh’ over here and a ‘Blegh’ over there, Bernard’s own bellowing laughter joined the throng of voices.
“Ha! Everytime! Each and every time. Clearly it doesn’t matter if my students are Human or Venlil. Whenever someone learns about the Koala’s dietary development the reaction is the same!”
Pleased with himself beyond reason, Bernard chuckled away while the rest of us grappled with this ghastly reality. While there were plenty of animals that feasted on things that ranged from simply unappealing all the way to the stomach churningly grotesque, I’d never heard of an animal that actively consumed the excrement of its own species. Benefits aside, the prospect of having to do that to survive to adulthood sent a shiver of revulsion down my spine.
Ewww… Stars, I hope I forget this feeling by 2nd meal. They’re serving sturen and magamroot stew later. I was really looking forward to it.
With the herds mood beginning to temper Bernard tapped the podiums controls, removing the verdant collage of eucalyptus to display several similar yet distinct environments, still chortling merrily to himself in the process, “Ok then, with that little foray into their diet complete, why don’t we look at their habitat in more detail? As you might imagine given their diet and arboreal nature, Koala’s live in forested regions, and can be found in tropical and temperate zones. About a century ago they were classed as a vulnerable species, however efforts were made to turn this around and increase their numbers. Sadly the largest factor in their decline was human activity, as the fertile lands that gave rise to their bountiful forests were coveted farm land for our settlements.”
It was strange to hear Bernard so matter of factly admit to humanity's negative impacts on other species. He’d alluded to such things in the past but always with an air of caution, carefully pawing the line between honestly answering a question while not painting humanity as uncaring and destructive. AKA, the ‘predators’ we’d all initially expected them to be.
Perhaps his comfort in making such admissions was a reflection of the class's comfort with him, for no one so much as batted an ear. Even Kailo, who I would’ve expected to jump at the chance to use this as a prime example of predatory danger, only flicked an ear in stern yet silent concern.
A cough from Bernard drew my attention back, a new picture on screen that showed a forest from a bird's-eye view. Drawn across the image were around a dozen ringed areas, some bordering one another while others overlapped to some degree. It took me a moment, but I soon recognised that what I was looking at was a map, the rings representing what I assumed to be territories. And it didn’t take much effort to guess who each one belonged to.
“From habitats we move onto behaviours, so let’s start with territories. Koala’s are solitary animals. Yes, despite being herbivores. Considering they’re only awake for roughly four hours of the day I can hardly blame them. Lots to do and not a lot of time to do it. Jokes aside, once they mature they are quite independent, carving out a little slice of land for themselves, as displayed in this example, called a Home Range. That is not to say they go it alone and leave everything else behind however. Rather, as shown in the map behind me, they live in their own space while still being part of a larger social group.”
With another press of his pad the picture was updated to show one of two symbols in each segment, along with a key to the side of the map displayed in helpful Venlang. A quick glance told me that the symbols were representing whether the territory belonged to a male or female of the species.
“As you can see there is quite a bit of overlap between different Koala’s territories. It is in these areas that most of the socialising takes place between neighbours. The trees in these locations represent the few areas where intrusion across territories is acceptable for the sake of social interaction. Outside of that the Koala’s stick to their own territories for the most part, with the exceptions of Koala’s who are passing through, attempting to become part of the social group themselves, or dominant males who sometimes go off into another Koala’s range. But how do they know where one range begins and another range ends you might ask? Well, this brings us onto the next part of the lecture. How do Koala’s communicate?”
Wiping away the map from the monitor, Bernard loaded up a video of a Koala sitting in a tree and pressed play. Head held high, the Koala’s body shook as it belted out a reverberating call into the wilderness that could only be described as a garbled combination of a car engine failing to turn over mixed with the hiccups of someone with a particularly sore throat.
That’s how they sound? Oof that must be rough on the lungs.
I clearly wasn’t the only one to share such a thought, because I clocked Sandi tracing a paw along her neck as the noise went on, ears fluttering in discomfort at the noise.
Bernard himself cleared his own throat as the video came to an end, minimising it and replacing it with another image of a tree with a Koala rubbing up against the bark, “I think they’ve got me beat on who’s got the deeper voice!”
His joke garnered several amused beeps, a rare reaction that caused a beaming smile to shine across his face at lighting speed, “Oh you’re too kind. I’ll be here all week. Now where were we? Oh yes! Communication. As you’ve just heard, Koala’s are capable of loud low pitched bellows that can carry over vast distances. These express everything from ‘Hello I’m over here’ to ‘This is my turf, stay away’. Bellowing is more common in the males than the females, opting for shouting matches as opposed to outright fights when it comes to asserting dominance. Other vocal expressions include grunts, wails, and snarls if they’re acting particularly angsty. Mother and joey pairs also communicate through gentle clicking, squeaking, and murmuring sounds. And there’s one more thing worth mentioning. Something they have in common with Humans and Venlil when it comes to emoting.”
Really? They do something we do?
Curious, I pressed myself against the desk, straining as close as I could to once more scrutinise the Koala’s features. Not a lot stood out to me at first, the grey marsupial not sharing many similarities with a Venlil that I could identify.
Ok think. We show emotion with our ears, tails, and our wool on occasion. They don’t have tails so it’s obviously not that. Wool standing on end is more a reaction than a conscious expression. So it must be the ears then.
To my quiet satisfaction, my hunch was soon validated by Bernard, “As well as their vocalisations, Koala’s are very emotive through their facial features. Just like humans, they use their mouths and lips to show how they feel, but these tend more towards the aggressive side of the scale than what you might see on a human. Regarding yourselves however, Koala’s utilise their ears in tandem with their mouth movements when showing strong emotion.”
I was delighted to hear that my assumption was correct, a little happy flick twisting out through my tail and bapping against my chair with a muted thump against the plastic.
Hehe yes! Got one right!
“Now then, we are getting close to lunchtime so I’ll finish this segment off with something I think you’ll find particularly interesting. Diplomacy.”
Perplexed mutterings followed in the wake of the bizarre inclusion to the lecture, my own thoughts being dominated by bewilderment as I tried and failed to make sense of how the two could possibly be related.
Why would Koala’s, or any animal for that matter, be linked to diplomacy? Hmmm...
I could understand dispatching exterminators to deal with a predator issue as a show of goodwill, that at least includes animals, but Humans aren’t like that so I think I can safely scratch that off the list.
Maybe the humans who live in that region benefited from Koala’s in some way. Could they have gotten something from them? But what?
Hopefully not what the pups get from their mothers.
Agh no! Begone awful intrusive thoughts. Blegh! I don’t need that in my head.
As I wrestled with the short-lived revulsion inflicted upon me by my Star's damned subconscious, Bernard placed a new image on screen, one that was decidedly different from all that had preceded it.
On screen were more than a couple dozen pictures of humans. Some were pictured alone while others congregated in large groups while cameras surrounded them from all angles. Across all the images, I noted two common themes. First of all, a solid majority of the humans were wearing formal wear similar to what I’d seen worn by UN representatives on TV. If the gaggle of journalists in the background of the photos didn’t already confirm my suspicions, then it was this similarity which made me conclude they were all people of some importance. Likely politicians judging from context clues.
Secondly, each of the individuals was interacting with a Koala in some form. Some cradled one against their chests while others were feeding it eucalyptus leaves or pellets of some kind. One of the assumed politicians had become an impromptu bed for a snoozing bundle of fur, a gleeful smile spread across their face as they lovingly gazed down at the sleeping Koala in their lap.
As I continued to stare at the assorted photos something clicked into place, a sudden spark flickering into life. A burgeoning light of comprehension that flared and swelled with every wide-eyed breath I took. Some things still escaped me, things I hoped would soon be explained, but in staring at all of the humans happy smiling faces, I was struck with an instant of pure understanding.
If someone, say a Nevok for instance, offered to gift me a creature that was common to them but which might exotic and breathtaking to a Venlil, how could my feelings not be swayed? How could I walk away from that encounter and not have grown closer to them as a result?
“Koala diplomacy,” Bernard waved his hand up at the monitor, a slight reverence in his tone, “My favourite kind of soft power diplomacy. Where political leaders take photo ops with Koala’s and, on occasion, the Australian government loans Koala’s to other nations for a time to bolster positive relations. It certainly helps that Koala’s are a beloved animal worldwide, drawing large crowds and revenue for countries fortunate enough to host the adorable critters.”
The truly alien concept predictably sparked instant discussion in the herd, two polar opposite schools of thought swiftly cementing themselves as the most popular opinions. Simultaneously, I heard one voice trill excitedly while another scoffed at what they clearly saw as a ridiculous and offensive notion.
“Squee! That’d be so cool! I’d love to get the chance to see a Liri from Coila. Remember the Rainbow Boa? Think of that shimmering effect and colour but put it on a bird! Ah! I’ve only heard their song on video. It’d be a treat to hear it in person!”
Ooo! I’ve read about them! I’d love to get up close to one.
“Loaning. As if animals are property to be hoarded and traded? Pugh! Another predatory trait the humans don’t want to acknowledge for what it is.”
Ugh, typical. Jump right to the worst possible option.
However, despite my dismissal of their disparaging fumings, an uncomfortable thought pressed upon my mind. While it was plain to see how much humans cared for the Koala, it didn’t change the fact that humans did keep animals as property just as the scornful herd member had said.
This begged a rather important, disquieting question. Aside from keeping some animals as cattle, a stomach tightening minefield I had no desire to step a claw onto right now, how else did humans keep other creatures. And how did they treat them?
Before I was fully conscious of doing it my paw was in the air, the question primed on my tongue.
Noticing my elevated paw Bernard pointed at me, smiling warmly, “Yes Rysel? What’s on your mind?”
Sorry Bernard. I hope this one’s not too awkward for you to answer.
Flicking my ear in appreciation, and waiting for everyone to settle enough so that I could be heard, I voiced my concerns as neutrally as possible, “Thank you Doctor. I uh, just had a thought. We know that humans keep certain animals for… particular reasons, and we know why. From how you’ve spoken about Koala’s I think it's fair to say that the same cannot be said for them. However, this makes me wonder, what other reasons do humans have for keeping animals and how do you treat them?”
A flash of surprise blinked across Bernard's eyes but vanished so quickly that it felt like I’d imagined it. Had he not expected such a question? Maybe he was just shocked that it’d been me who’d ended up asking it?
Stars, am I so predictable that no one expects me to ask difficult questions?
Unfortunately, a quick glance at my deskmates seemed to prove that to be the case, as both Sandi and Kailo were looking at me with differing degrees of astonishment flapping in their ears.
Well speh.
“A very good point Rysel, certainly one that’s worth raising. Yet another example of you all anticipating what I have to say before I can bring it up myself.” Bernard tapped the podium, switching off the monitor before returning his focus to me, “We won’t be needing that. I’ve nothing prepared that I can show you and we’re heading to lunch in a few minutes anyway. Still, that’s plenty of time to give you a bit of an answer.”
A bit? What does he mean just a bit?
Made even more curious by Bernard's preempted admission that he wasn’t going to fully answer my query, I dialled both my ears on him, fixing him with an inquisitive stare as he started to explain with a tone that was noticeably more nonchalant than any of his previous explanations.
“So, animals in captivity for reasons other than what you already know. Honestly I would love to delve into other reasons regarding why we keep animals. However, I have a lesson plan in the works that I hope to share with you all in the not too distant future. Some of it touches upon this very topic and I’d quite like to bundle it all together. That said, I can tell you how animals in captivity are treated. In short, the answer is very well. There are a mountain of laws both on private and public interests that govern the standards and ethical treatment of animals, and breaches of these laws are quite severe even for relatively minor infractions.”
While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed by the vague answer to what was really the bulk of my question, I was at least satisfied by Bernard’s assurances that animals in captivity, such as the Koala, were well looked after. Considering the barely subdued grumbling coming from some corners of the audience it was clear that several of the herd didn’t believe Bernard outright, but I trusted him to be honest. Additionally, the mention of an upcoming lecture focused on humans keeping animals caused quite the buzz.
I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation at exploring the topic further. He’d pretty much confirmed we wouldn’t be talking about cattle farms, for which I was relieved, but that still left a huge amount of uncertainty in what was to come.
Humans keeping animals as cattle was a forgone conclusion. As horrifying as that reality was, it was one I could understand from a detached and strictly clinical point of view. Being predators they ate meat and therefore they kept cattle. But the concept of keeping animals for any other reason baffled me.
What could be the purpose? The diplomacy thing makes sense now that I have context, but what other reasons could they have.
The class's discussions were interrupted by the recognisable ring of the break bell, the shift in attention eliciting a change in conversation from confused hypotheses to peppy conversation on how everyone was planning to spend their break and what they had in mind for 2nd meal.
“Well I can see everyone’s excited for lunch, and who am I to disappoint,” chuckling Bernard waved us all up from our seats, pocketing his pad from the podium and heading to open the classroom door for us, “Enjoy your break, get a good rest along with a hearty meal, and I’ll see you all back here at the usual time.”
As everyone else filed out I stayed behind, waving at Sandi and Kailo as they left, and pawing over to Bernard once he and I were the only ones left in the room.
Ears folded down and with an apologetic tinge in my voice I greeted him as I sidled up to him, “Hey Bernard, I uh… sorry if that last question was unexpected.”
Chortling in reply, Bernard waved a hand through the air in a sign I’d come to understand meant ‘not a problem’.
“No need to apologise Rysel. It was a good question and most certainly not a problem.”
Heh, called it.
I sighed, allowing tension I didn’t realise I’d been holding to relax itself from my shoulders, “Phew, that’s a relief. I’m glad. I’m curious to hear what this new lesson is you’ve got in store for us by the way.”
Bernard wagged a finger at me, throwing up his eyebrows in mock amazement, “Oh are you now? Well I’m afraid you’ll have to remain curious for the time being. It’s going to be quite the surprise if all goes to plan. But…”
He trailed off, glancing at me before looking to the door like he was making sure no one else was around.
Wait, is he going to tell me? Oh please yes let me know now!
Stopping myself from jumping on the spot in excited anticipation, and trying my damndest to stop my tail from wagging in equal measure, I stared up at Bernard as he stewed in his thoughts before turning back to face me.
“I can’t tell you the specifics, but I’m working with Alejandro and Tolim to get something together. A trip that’s not a trip as it were. And when it happens, I’m going to need a few of the more accepting members of the class to lend me a hand. I’m hoping you and a couple others will be able to help with that?”
A trip that’s not a trip? What does that mean? Agh who cares about that right now! Bernard’s relying on me to help out!
Still trying not to keep myself from bouncing around with pup like glee I swished my tail and nodded my head in joint agreement, happy to help with whatever Bernard had in store for us, “Of course! Anything you need I’ll be there to lend a paw. You can count on me!”
A broad warm smile lit up Bernard's face, a hand patting me on the shoulder in appreciation, “Thank you Rysel. I knew I could rely on you but it still warms my heart to hear it. And, as thanks for this and for the many times you’ve shown your support, the surprise includes a little something special I think you’d appreciate the most.”
If my earlier enthusiasm had been at a nine, then the implication of a supposed gift sent it rocketing all the way to a hundred in a heartbeat.
“Wait… WHAT!? What do you mean? What are you doing?”
As impossible as it seemed, Bernard's grin grew even wider as I almost lost myself in wool shaking exhilaration, “Call it my own form of Koala diplomacy. But I’m afraid that’s all I can say for now. Wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise even for you!”
“Oh you ass!” Whistling jovially I bapped my tail against Bernard’s leg in fake indignation, evoking a barking bellowing laugh from the man himself.
Still laughing, the two of us departed the class and made for the canteen, my rumbling stomach leading me on while my mind spun with fantastical thoughts as to what Bernard had prepared for us.
And what specifically he had in store for me.
submitted by Still_Performance_39 to NatureofPredators [link] [comments]
Hey, I hope everyone's doing well!
Today we return to the namesake of this fic, an actual lesson about animals. This one focuses on Koalas! One of Australia's most recognisable critters. I hope you enjoy.
It's hardly worth mentioning, seeing as I'm an infrequent poster at the best of times, but I'll not have another chapter out for a few weeks due to limited free time and devoting most of my writing time to an upcoming ficnapping. Be sure to look out for that!
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Memory transcription subject: Rysel, Venlil Environmental Researcher
Date [Standardised human time]: 8th September 2136
“Koalas!”
Bernard’s energised voice boomed through the air as the classroom's monitor flickered into life, images of this paws lecture topic popping up one after the other until the entire screen was filled with a collage of furry quadrupeds.
Squee! I’ll never get tired of this, it’s all so cool!
As usual the sight of something new stirred immediate discussion, hushed murmurs swelling into vibrant discourse in little more than a heartbeat. Most of the class swiftly huddled together into small herds to bounce ideas around while the rest opted to stick to the solace of their own thoughts as they took in the display.
I’d be quite happy in either situation, though seeing as Sandi had already sunk into deep concentration and Kailo had peeled off to talk with Ennerif and Solenk, it seemed the decision had been made for me on this occasion. Wasting no more time on idle inspection of the people around me, I focused my full attention forward, eager to form first impressions before the lesson began in earnest.
Now then, time to make some educated guesses. What traits does this animal have? I wonder if I’ll get any right this paw?
Professional assumptions went paw-in-paw with the lectures, examining and coming up with hypotheses about the specimens was only natural. Recently however, I’d started to make a little game of it to make things even more interesting than usual. A veritable bonfire of ideas had been set ablaze within me, fueled by my newfound knowledge of Earthen wildlife. Every flash and spark of the flame was a fresh theory I could try to apply to the lectures. It was an invigorating exercise that further stoked my unceasing wonderment.
So far I’d only done this once during the previous class and, to my disappointment, I’d not done too well.
I was right when I guessed that chickens were omnivores, but wrong in my assumption that they could fly. And that red thing on their head, the um… what was it called? The comb! Yes, the comb. I thought that was to attract mates, but it regulates body heat instead. It’s fascinating. Oh! Stars damn it I’m rambling!
I bapped my tail against my leg, the soft thud being just enough to snap me back from my runaway thoughts before I went completely wall-eyed. I was becoming more and more accustomed to getting lost in my own head while remaining conscious of the fact; it was happening so frequently now that it was pretty much impossible not to. Now I was able to pull myself back to the world around me without having to rely on someone else shaking me out of it. Most of the time anyway.
Sandi still keeps an eye on me, and Kailo even decided to help out once without being too snide about it. Anyway where was I? Oh yeah, Koalas.
Glancing at the furred animals, two things immediately stood out. Firstly, their eyes were in a more central position on their face. And second, all the images showed them being on or close to trees. There were other noteworthy observations of course, such as the Koala’s prominent nose and rounded features, but they fell to the wayside as I honed in on these points first.
Hmmm… ok. I already know to discount the idea that they’re predators just from eye position, so let’s get that thought out of here. Maybe omnivorous? Herbivore? Agh no, I can’t just guess that for the sake of guessing, that’s the same problem! Hrm, it’s tough making these assumptions now that everything I thought I knew has been turned on its head.
Nevermind, I’ll focus on the other thing. All the trees make me think they’re arboreal, that seems to be a reasonable assumption. I wonder what else they-
Clearing his throat, Bernard broke my concentration, his call for attention silencing the murmuring conversation and redirecting everyone's focus to the lecturer's podium.
His gaze panned across the room as he waited for everyone to settle, a beaming smile lighting up his face, “As ever I’m delighted to see you all get so into the subject matter from the get go. I’m looking forward to hearing what you were discussing should you wish to share. For now though, how about we get started, hm?”
A chorus of merry bleats rang out from across the audience, ears and tails flicking happily in agreement. Bernard's grin grew in tandem with the class's fervour, clasping his hands together enthusiastically as he launched into the lesson, “Excellent! Then let’s get started.”
The pictures on screen dissolved away until only one remained, enlarging to cover the entire monitor with the fluffy grey face of a Koala peacefully reclining in the crook of a tree.
“Ah, there we are,” Bernard’s baritone timbre drifted through the room as he looked up at the image, his own tone reflecting the relaxed attitude of the animal on screen, “He looks so comfortable doesn’t he? Perfectly at peace with the world, not too surprising considering they sleep almost 20 hours a day. A full paw!”
A wave of beeps and gasps rippled through the herd, punctuated by a single yawn-dressed comment from Rova, “A full paw? Hwuuu… jealous.”
Her drowsy remark elicited several whistling giggles from the herd, Bernard's own jovial chortle joining them as he turned to face her, “Late evening Rova?”
I twisted a little in my seat, panning an eye in Rova’s direction just in time to see her bleary eyes bulge open and her ears shoot up, now intensely aware of the fact she hadn’t been as quiet as she thought she had.
Sitting up abruptly, she hastily tapped down errant tufts of wool that’d flared in surprise as she composed herself, though her nervousness at becoming the centre of the class's attention was still plain for all to hear, “Uh- I um… achem, a little bit yes, um- …sorry. Lokki dragged me out to a movie viewing in the rec centre. It went on pretty late.”
A melodramatic bray from the other side of the room drew everyone's ears away from Rova to the now aghast Lokki, paw splayed across his chest in faux indignation, “Dragged you? Well excuse me for trying to broaden your horizons with human movies. That’ll be the list time I- …Ahaaaa…”
Lokki’s theatrics were cut short by a heavy yawn of his own, a swell of whistling laughter rolling through the herd as vibrant bloom lit up his snout, a sight that elicited a particularly amused bleat from Rova.
Turning away from the duo I looked back at Bernard, pleased to see that he was chuckling along with us. Behaviour like Lokki’s would never have been tolerated in my school and university days but, in stark contrast, Bernard revelled in it, the liveliness of his students fueling his own bombastic style of teaching. It was a pleasant change of pace having a teacher who let us all be ourselves in class; provided we weren’t too disruptive to the lesson plan.
Speaking of which.
His laughter still rumbling through the air, Bernard clapped his hands to pull everyone's focus back to him, “Ok, ok, let’s get back to it then shall we? Rova. Lokki. Hopefully the two of you can stay awake long enough until you can grab yourselves a coffee.”
As the class settled down and the last few giggling beeps petered out, Benard pointed a hand to the screen, “So, the Koala. Let’s start simple shall we? They are herbivorous marsupials native to the eastern and southern coasts of Australia. Easily recognised the world over, they are a well known and beloved symbol of their homeland, along with other animals such as the Kangaroo and the Emu. The former of which you might remember from one of our earlier lectures.”
Indeed I did remember, along with how angry Bernard had gotten after some speh-head had derided the Yotul after he explained how he held specific disdain for such attitudes.
Uuuggghh… I never want to see him angry again. So chilling.
I shook my ears in an effort to dismiss the unpleasant memory, panning my eyes back to the monitor to try and distract myself by inspecting the Koala’s physical appearance once more. Thankfully, by some Star's blessed intervention, Bernard had the exact same idea.
“Koala’s are rather squat in stature, ranging around sixty to eighty-five centimetres in length and weighing little more than fifteen to sixteen kilograms at their full size. As you can see, the fur of this fellow before you is a lovely silvery grey, but their fur can also sport a chocolaty brown hue as well. Arguably the most distinctive part of their appearance is their head, being rather large for their body size and having rounded ears, a large nose, and a pair of small eyes. These are often brown but variations do occur.”
It didn’t slip past my notice that Bernard didn’t bother to point out that the Koala’s eyes were forward facing. I didn’t think he’d simply forgotten, so perhaps he just felt it wasn’t necessary given that he’d already stated it was herbivorous. Either way, no one stuck up a paw or tail to question him.
“Now this will hardly be surprising considering how long they sleep, but Koala’s are largely sedentary and it’s rather easy to see why when you have a look into the contents of their diet.”
With the press of a button the Koala on screen was replaced by images of vibrant green vegetation. Soaring trees and flowering shrubbery weaved together across landscape framed pictures pulled admiring trills from the herd, the diversity of the plant life being shown standing as a reminder that it wasn’t only animal life that flourished on Earth.
After giving everyone the chance to take in the picturesque scenes, Bernard casually hammered that point home, “This is eucalyptus or, more accurately, a choice selection of more than 700 plants belonging to the eucalyptus genus, though the Koala itself favours 30 of them in particular.”
700!? Stars…
Realising that my ears had drooped in my momentary awe, I twisted them back to tune into the lesson, only for them to splay out in shock at the next words to come out of Bernard's mouth.
“The leaves of these plants are the primary food source of the Koala and there are a couple things worth mentioning when talking about these plants. For starters they do not have much nutritional or caloric value, leading to the Koala’s low-energy lifestyle. Additionally, they contain toxic compounds.”
A shiver instantly ran through the herd, ears flicking rapidly in confusion and alarm followed by a few quizzical whispers. It didn’t take long for someone to decide to give a proper voice to the murmuring.
“Excuse me Doctor. Did we hear that right? Their diet is made up of toxic flora?” Vlek’s grumbling incredulity cut through the herd's mutterings with ease. Until Kailo’s recent change of heart, the fifty something rotation old blonde Venlil had been a close second in terms of scepticism. Mercifully his rebuttals had always been relevant questions as opposed to ranting diatribes, so he at least remained on topic if nothing else.
Bernard nodded in confirmation, smiling back at Vlek while absentmindedly twirling the end of his moustache, “You heard me right, they do indeed consume plants that are toxic. Just not to them.”
Any worry or uncertainty still clinging to the herd was swept away by the provision of the glaringly obvious answer, leaving me chuckling inwardly at the oversight.
Ah of course! The plant might be poisonous but they’ll have evolved to deal with that. Stars… I’m so used to expecting the unexpected with Earth that I didn’t even consider the simplest solution.
“I see, thank you Doctor,” Vlek replied, a tinge of interest still audible in his tone, “I assume they’ve developed some adaptation to become immune to the harmful effects?”
The question immediately evoked a smirk from our teacher, but he hurriedly suppressed it while bobbing his head, “They have indeed. There are several factors that aid in their digestion of eucalyptus leaves without succumbing to the plant's baleful properties. The first is a part of the intestinal tract called the cecum. It contains a microbiome that allows the Koala to digest the eucalyptus. Coupled with this is an enzyme in the Koala’s liver that helps them break down the toxins. They are also capable of sniffing out the plants with the least amount of toxins, ensuring that they ingest as little as possible.”
Pausing for a breath Bernard looked back at the screen before turning to face us, another grin curling at the edges of his mouth as he continued with his explanation, “This is mostly for adult Koala’s, because while their young also possess these same adaptations, they don’t just go straight to munching through foliage right after being born. No, they need a little help making that jump and getting a stomach full of all that good gut bacteria. It’s nothing bad, but those of a sensitive stomach may wish to prepare themselves for this next part.”
Bernard’s assurances did little to assuage the concern that his warning had foisted upon us. Having been exposed to so much of the weirdness Earth had to offer everyone always ended up on edge whenever Bernard gave advice like this, even if he did say it in jest.
What strange nonsense thing do Koala pups do then? Judging by the way he’s acting it probably isn’t something as simple as drinking milk from the mother. Hmmm…
“So,” Bernard began, snapping us from our pensive stupor, “Young Koala’s, known as joeys, have a gestation period of thirty-five days on average, which is approximately forty-two paws. Once born they travel from the birth canal to a pouch in their mother so that they can continue to develop and grow. In the pouch the joey finds and latches onto one of two teats and these provide the newborn with a steady stream of nourishing milk. It spends the next six to seven months growing in the pouch, its eyes, ears, and fur all developing as time goes on.”
Okay, interesting. But this is exactly how I thought it’d go. What’s different?
The unexpected normalcy of the Koala’s birth and growth cycle had calmed everyone's nerves, only to be replaced with an air of suspicion as we waited with rapt attention for Bernard to drop the other claw and upend our expectations like he always did.
Not wanting to keep us in further suspense he forged ahead, the tempo of his voice picking up as the smile started to crease his face once more, “Now to make the switch from milk to eucalyptus, the mother also feeds the joey a substance called pap. It comes from the cecum I mentioned earlier, and contains all the gut bacteria required to help the young Koala in making the switch to eucalyptus.”
He stopped and looked around, searching us for a reaction to what I felt was a rather bland statement of fact. What was it he was saying without actually saying? Koala pups drink milk to mature and then include this pap substance so that they can start eating plants. I don’t see what-
The cecum is part of the intestine.
I blinked.
I blinked again, the intrusive interruption scouring my brain clean of any other thought bar the one it’d just implanted itself in the forefront of my mind.
Oh stars. They-
“They eat their own poop!?”
The shocked bleat shattered the peace of the room to reveal that most if not all of us had come to the same tail curling conclusion. As the hall filled with unrestrained vocalisations of disgust, an ‘Ugh’ over here and a ‘Blegh’ over there, Bernard’s own bellowing laughter joined the throng of voices.
“Ha! Everytime! Each and every time. Clearly it doesn’t matter if my students are Human or Venlil. Whenever someone learns about the Koala’s dietary development the reaction is the same!”
Pleased with himself beyond reason, Bernard chuckled away while the rest of us grappled with this ghastly reality. While there were plenty of animals that feasted on things that ranged from simply unappealing all the way to the stomach churningly grotesque, I’d never heard of an animal that actively consumed the excrement of its own species. Benefits aside, the prospect of having to do that to survive to adulthood sent a shiver of revulsion down my spine.
Ewww… Stars, I hope I forget this feeling by 2nd meal. They’re serving sturen and magamroot stew later. I was really looking forward to it.
With the herds mood beginning to temper Bernard tapped the podiums controls, removing the verdant collage of eucalyptus to display several similar yet distinct environments, still chortling merrily to himself in the process, “Ok then, with that little foray into their diet complete, why don’t we look at their habitat in more detail? As you might imagine given their diet and arboreal nature, Koala’s live in forested regions, and can be found in tropical and temperate zones. About a century ago they were classed as a vulnerable species, however efforts were made to turn this around and increase their numbers. Sadly the largest factor in their decline was human activity, as the fertile lands that gave rise to their bountiful forests were coveted farm land for our settlements.”
It was strange to hear Bernard so matter of factly admit to humanity's negative impacts on other species. He’d alluded to such things in the past but always with an air of caution, carefully pawing the line between honestly answering a question while not painting humanity as uncaring and destructive. AKA, the ‘predators’ we’d all initially expected them to be.
Perhaps his comfort in making such admissions was a reflection of the class's comfort with him, for no one so much as batted an ear. Even Kailo, who I would’ve expected to jump at the chance to use this as a prime example of predatory danger, only flicked an ear in stern yet silent concern.
A cough from Bernard drew my attention back, a new picture on screen that showed a forest from a bird's-eye view. Drawn across the image were around a dozen ringed areas, some bordering one another while others overlapped to some degree. It took me a moment, but I soon recognised that what I was looking at was a map, the rings representing what I assumed to be territories. And it didn’t take much effort to guess who each one belonged to.
“From habitats we move onto behaviours, so let’s start with territories. Koala’s are solitary animals. Yes, despite being herbivores. Considering they’re only awake for roughly four hours of the day I can hardly blame them. Lots to do and not a lot of time to do it. Jokes aside, once they mature they are quite independent, carving out a little slice of land for themselves, as displayed in this example, called a Home Range. That is not to say they go it alone and leave everything else behind however. Rather, as shown in the map behind me, they live in their own space while still being part of a larger social group.”
With another press of his pad the picture was updated to show one of two symbols in each segment, along with a key to the side of the map displayed in helpful Venlang. A quick glance told me that the symbols were representing whether the territory belonged to a male or female of the species.
“As you can see there is quite a bit of overlap between different Koala’s territories. It is in these areas that most of the socialising takes place between neighbours. The trees in these locations represent the few areas where intrusion across territories is acceptable for the sake of social interaction. Outside of that the Koala’s stick to their own territories for the most part, with the exceptions of Koala’s who are passing through, attempting to become part of the social group themselves, or dominant males who sometimes go off into another Koala’s range. But how do they know where one range begins and another range ends you might ask? Well, this brings us onto the next part of the lecture. How do Koala’s communicate?”
Wiping away the map from the monitor, Bernard loaded up a video of a Koala sitting in a tree and pressed play. Head held high, the Koala’s body shook as it belted out a reverberating call into the wilderness that could only be described as a garbled combination of a car engine failing to turn over mixed with the hiccups of someone with a particularly sore throat.
That’s how they sound? Oof that must be rough on the lungs.
I clearly wasn’t the only one to share such a thought, because I clocked Sandi tracing a paw along her neck as the noise went on, ears fluttering in discomfort at the noise.
Bernard himself cleared his own throat as the video came to an end, minimising it and replacing it with another image of a tree with a Koala rubbing up against the bark, “I think they’ve got me beat on who’s got the deeper voice!”
His joke garnered several amused beeps, a rare reaction that caused a beaming smile to shine across his face at lighting speed, “Oh you’re too kind. I’ll be here all week. Now where were we? Oh yes! Communication. As you’ve just heard, Koala’s are capable of loud low pitched bellows that can carry over vast distances. These express everything from ‘Hello I’m over here’ to ‘This is my turf, stay away’. Bellowing is more common in the males than the females, opting for shouting matches as opposed to outright fights when it comes to asserting dominance. Other vocal expressions include grunts, wails, and snarls if they’re acting particularly angsty. Mother and joey pairs also communicate through gentle clicking, squeaking, and murmuring sounds. And there’s one more thing worth mentioning. Something they have in common with Humans and Venlil when it comes to emoting.”
Really? They do something we do?
Curious, I pressed myself against the desk, straining as close as I could to once more scrutinise the Koala’s features. Not a lot stood out to me at first, the grey marsupial not sharing many similarities with a Venlil that I could identify.
Ok think. We show emotion with our ears, tails, and our wool on occasion. They don’t have tails so it’s obviously not that. Wool standing on end is more a reaction than a conscious expression. So it must be the ears then.
To my quiet satisfaction, my hunch was soon validated by Bernard, “As well as their vocalisations, Koala’s are very emotive through their facial features. Just like humans, they use their mouths and lips to show how they feel, but these tend more towards the aggressive side of the scale than what you might see on a human. Regarding yourselves however, Koala’s utilise their ears in tandem with their mouth movements when showing strong emotion.”
I was delighted to hear that my assumption was correct, a little happy flick twisting out through my tail and bapping against my chair with a muted thump against the plastic.
Hehe yes! Got one right!
“Now then, we are getting close to lunchtime so I’ll finish this segment off with something I think you’ll find particularly interesting. Diplomacy.”
Perplexed mutterings followed in the wake of the bizarre inclusion to the lecture, my own thoughts being dominated by bewilderment as I tried and failed to make sense of how the two could possibly be related.
Why would Koala’s, or any animal for that matter, be linked to diplomacy? Hmmm...
I could understand dispatching exterminators to deal with a predator issue as a show of goodwill, that at least includes animals, but Humans aren’t like that so I think I can safely scratch that off the list.
Maybe the humans who live in that region benefited from Koala’s in some way. Could they have gotten something from them? But what?
Hopefully not what the pups get from their mothers.
Agh no! Begone awful intrusive thoughts. Blegh! I don’t need that in my head.
As I wrestled with the short-lived revulsion inflicted upon me by my Star's damned subconscious, Bernard placed a new image on screen, one that was decidedly different from all that had preceded it.
On screen were more than a couple dozen pictures of humans. Some were pictured alone while others congregated in large groups while cameras surrounded them from all angles. Across all the images, I noted two common themes. First of all, a solid majority of the humans were wearing formal wear similar to what I’d seen worn by UN representatives on TV. If the gaggle of journalists in the background of the photos didn’t already confirm my suspicions, then it was this similarity which made me conclude they were all people of some importance. Likely politicians judging from context clues.
Secondly, each of the individuals was interacting with a Koala in some form. Some cradled one against their chests while others were feeding it eucalyptus leaves or pellets of some kind. One of the assumed politicians had become an impromptu bed for a snoozing bundle of fur, a gleeful smile spread across their face as they lovingly gazed down at the sleeping Koala in their lap.
As I continued to stare at the assorted photos something clicked into place, a sudden spark flickering into life. A burgeoning light of comprehension that flared and swelled with every wide-eyed breath I took. Some things still escaped me, things I hoped would soon be explained, but in staring at all of the humans happy smiling faces, I was struck with an instant of pure understanding.
If someone, say a Nevok for instance, offered to gift me a creature that was common to them but which might exotic and breathtaking to a Venlil, how could my feelings not be swayed? How could I walk away from that encounter and not have grown closer to them as a result?
“Koala diplomacy,” Bernard waved his hand up at the monitor, a slight reverence in his tone, “My favourite kind of soft power diplomacy. Where political leaders take photo ops with Koala’s and, on occasion, the Australian government loans Koala’s to other nations for a time to bolster positive relations. It certainly helps that Koala’s are a beloved animal worldwide, drawing large crowds and revenue for countries fortunate enough to host the adorable critters.”
The truly alien concept predictably sparked instant discussion in the herd, two polar opposite schools of thought swiftly cementing themselves as the most popular opinions. Simultaneously, I heard one voice trill excitedly while another scoffed at what they clearly saw as a ridiculous and offensive notion.
“Squee! That’d be so cool! I’d love to get the chance to see a Liri from Coila. Remember the Rainbow Boa? Think of that shimmering effect and colour but put it on a bird! Ah! I’ve only heard their song on video. It’d be a treat to hear it in person!”
Ooo! I’ve read about them! I’d love to get up close to one.
“Loaning. As if animals are property to be hoarded and traded? Pugh! Another predatory trait the humans don’t want to acknowledge for what it is.”
Ugh, typical. Jump right to the worst possible option.
However, despite my dismissal of their disparaging fumings, an uncomfortable thought pressed upon my mind. While it was plain to see how much humans cared for the Koala, it didn’t change the fact that humans did keep animals as property just as the scornful herd member had said.
This begged a rather important, disquieting question. Aside from keeping some animals as cattle, a stomach tightening minefield I had no desire to step a claw onto right now, how else did humans keep other creatures. And how did they treat them?
Before I was fully conscious of doing it my paw was in the air, the question primed on my tongue.
Noticing my elevated paw Bernard pointed at me, smiling warmly, “Yes Rysel? What’s on your mind?”
Sorry Bernard. I hope this one’s not too awkward for you to answer.
Flicking my ear in appreciation, and waiting for everyone to settle enough so that I could be heard, I voiced my concerns as neutrally as possible, “Thank you Doctor. I uh, just had a thought. We know that humans keep certain animals for… particular reasons, and we know why. From how you’ve spoken about Koala’s I think it's fair to say that the same cannot be said for them. However, this makes me wonder, what other reasons do humans have for keeping animals and how do you treat them?”
A flash of surprise blinked across Bernard's eyes but vanished so quickly that it felt like I’d imagined it. Had he not expected such a question? Maybe he was just shocked that it’d been me who’d ended up asking it?
Stars, am I so predictable that no one expects me to ask difficult questions?
Unfortunately, a quick glance at my deskmates seemed to prove that to be the case, as both Sandi and Kailo were looking at me with differing degrees of astonishment flapping in their ears.
Well speh.
“A very good point Rysel, certainly one that’s worth raising. Yet another example of you all anticipating what I have to say before I can bring it up myself.” Bernard tapped the podium, switching off the monitor before returning his focus to me, “We won’t be needing that. I’ve nothing prepared that I can show you and we’re heading to lunch in a few minutes anyway. Still, that’s plenty of time to give you a bit of an answer.”
A bit? What does he mean just a bit?
Made even more curious by Bernard's preempted admission that he wasn’t going to fully answer my query, I dialled both my ears on him, fixing him with an inquisitive stare as he started to explain with a tone that was noticeably more nonchalant than any of his previous explanations.
“So, animals in captivity for reasons other than what you already know. Honestly I would love to delve into other reasons regarding why we keep animals. However, I have a lesson plan in the works that I hope to share with you all in the not too distant future. Some of it touches upon this very topic and I’d quite like to bundle it all together. That said, I can tell you how animals in captivity are treated. In short, the answer is very well. There are a mountain of laws both on private and public interests that govern the standards and ethical treatment of animals, and breaches of these laws are quite severe even for relatively minor infractions.”
While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed by the vague answer to what was really the bulk of my question, I was at least satisfied by Bernard’s assurances that animals in captivity, such as the Koala, were well looked after. Considering the barely subdued grumbling coming from some corners of the audience it was clear that several of the herd didn’t believe Bernard outright, but I trusted him to be honest. Additionally, the mention of an upcoming lecture focused on humans keeping animals caused quite the buzz.
I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation at exploring the topic further. He’d pretty much confirmed we wouldn’t be talking about cattle farms, for which I was relieved, but that still left a huge amount of uncertainty in what was to come.
Humans keeping animals as cattle was a forgone conclusion. As horrifying as that reality was, it was one I could understand from a detached and strictly clinical point of view. Being predators they ate meat and therefore they kept cattle. But the concept of keeping animals for any other reason baffled me.
What could be the purpose? The diplomacy thing makes sense now that I have context, but what other reasons could they have.
The class's discussions were interrupted by the recognisable ring of the break bell, the shift in attention eliciting a change in conversation from confused hypotheses to peppy conversation on how everyone was planning to spend their break and what they had in mind for 2nd meal.
“Well I can see everyone’s excited for lunch, and who am I to disappoint,” chuckling Bernard waved us all up from our seats, pocketing his pad from the podium and heading to open the classroom door for us, “Enjoy your break, get a good rest along with a hearty meal, and I’ll see you all back here at the usual time.”
As everyone else filed out I stayed behind, waving at Sandi and Kailo as they left, and pawing over to Bernard once he and I were the only ones left in the room.
Ears folded down and with an apologetic tinge in my voice I greeted him as I sidled up to him, “Hey Bernard, I uh… sorry if that last question was unexpected.”
Chortling in reply, Bernard waved a hand through the air in a sign I’d come to understand meant ‘not a problem’.
“No need to apologise Rysel. It was a good question and most certainly not a problem.”
Heh, called it.
I sighed, allowing tension I didn’t realise I’d been holding to relax itself from my shoulders, “Phew, that’s a relief. I’m glad. I’m curious to hear what this new lesson is you’ve got in store for us by the way.”
Bernard wagged a finger at me, throwing up his eyebrows in mock amazement, “Oh are you now? Well I’m afraid you’ll have to remain curious for the time being. It’s going to be quite the surprise if all goes to plan. But…”
He trailed off, glancing at me before looking to the door like he was making sure no one else was around.
Wait, is he going to tell me? Oh please yes let me know now!
Stopping myself from jumping on the spot in excited anticipation, and trying my damndest to stop my tail from wagging in equal measure, I stared up at Bernard as he stewed in his thoughts before turning back to face me.
“I can’t tell you the specifics, but I’m working with Alejandro and Tolim to get something together. A trip that’s not a trip as it were. And when it happens, I’m going to need a few of the more accepting members of the class to lend me a hand. I’m hoping you and a couple others will be able to help with that?”
A trip that’s not a trip? What does that mean? Agh who cares about that right now! Bernard’s relying on me to help out!
Still trying not to keep myself from bouncing around with pup like glee I swished my tail and nodded my head in joint agreement, happy to help with whatever Bernard had in store for us, “Of course! Anything you need I’ll be there to lend a paw. You can count on me!”
A broad warm smile lit up Bernard's face, a hand patting me on the shoulder in appreciation, “Thank you Rysel. I knew I could rely on you but it still warms my heart to hear it. And, as thanks for this and for the many times you’ve shown your support, the surprise includes a little something special I think you’d appreciate the most.”
If my earlier enthusiasm had been at a nine, then the implication of a supposed gift sent it rocketing all the way to a hundred in a heartbeat.
“Wait… WHAT!? What do you mean? What are you doing?”
As impossible as it seemed, Bernard's grin grew even wider as I almost lost myself in wool shaking exhilaration, “Call it my own form of Koala diplomacy. But I’m afraid that’s all I can say for now. Wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise even for you!”
“Oh you ass!” Whistling jovially I bapped my tail against Bernard’s leg in fake indignation, evoking a barking bellowing laugh from the man himself.
Still laughing, the two of us departed the class and made for the canteen, my rumbling stomach leading me on while my mind spun with fantastical thoughts as to what Bernard had prepared for us.
And what specifically he had in store for me.
2024.05.21 22:35 ZealousidealEnd157 Some harry potter looking script i found in a library
I found a notebook with writing which looks like it was formatted to be a movie script. I handed the book in to the staff at the library. Anyway i went back to the library to check if had been collected and it hadnt so i thought id post a bit of it here hoping whoever wrote it is on here? Long shot but whatever.
EXT. AZKABAN. NIGHT
The perpetual storm outside rages: lashing at the dark prism which protrudes from the restless ocean.
Lightening cracks and chips the blackened bricks on the corners of the equilateral roof.
A dark, hooded figure floats above the frothing sea towards the prison. His face is hidden but his pale, scarred hands can be seen protruding from his tattered robe. The audience think he must be some sort of dementor by the cloak, the nature of his travel and the destination of his journey.
However when the figure approaches an upper third of a rectangular side of Azkaban, he raises a scarred hand towards the brickwork: a spiraling red stream of electricity shoots out from his fingers and hits the blackened brickwork. The wall of the prison explodes outward, the shattered bricks falling into the dark waters below.
The hooded figure glides into Azkaban and steps lightly onto the cobbled passageway inside the building.
CUT TO:
INT. AZKABAN
A group of similarly hooded guards float inches off the floor facing the intruder standing at the edge of the blasted hole in the wall he had made.
Seven feet tall, with a dark boney figure, they are similar in appearance to the man, and the dementors seem confused by his arrival. More dementors gather as the crowd approach the man, their rattling breaths create a horrifying chorus of sickness.
Before the crowd reach within 6 feet of the man, he lazily extends an arm: this time, a pale blue mist falls gently before a contorting shape forces it's way out from the man's hand. It grows, bones cracking uncomfortably, taking the shape of a ghostly bear. The patronus of the bear is formidable in size, however it's scarred and manged. The bear is hardly covered in any translucent blue fur, the few patches left protrude randomly across it's body. It's face is scarred and disfigured, one eye is fused shut. The bear snarls and growls deeply at the crowd of dementors and breaks into the crazed run at the figures. It barks as it runs, contorts it's body as it chases. Foamed spit falls out it's mouth as it lunges to bite the dementors. The crowd fall back down the dark corridor, chased by the man's patronus.
On the right, all the way down the corridor, are a series of adjacent cells, the fourth wall facing the corridor being thick wrought iron bars. The occupants of each cell had wildly different reactions to this intruder. Some rattled the bars of their cages and exclaimed wildly, some rocked in the center of their damp cells, quietly rocking and muttering to themselves. All were decidedly mad.
The hooded man looked down the corridor at the barred cells, by raising his arm, each inmate levitate off the floor, then with a sudden jerk of his arm, the figures fly to the barred wall of their cell their bodies do not fit naturally through the gaps in the bars, but they continue going through, their bones snapping and twisting to allow this.
The deafening screams of the prisoners echo down the dark corridor as they go through the bars and then float in a neat line in the center of the corridor. The hooded man then turns out to the open sea and floats up, the parade of contorted bodies follow.
The hooded man rises up and turns back to face the side of the building. He subtlety flicks his hands and the group of broken bodies line up horizontally against the black wall. With another motion, a large wall stone pushes out from the flush brickwork. Creating a small ledge for the prisoners to stand on. Their broken feet and legs crumble and they begin to collapse and fall off the ledge, however before falling to the sea below the floating man raises both his hands, a thin green mist shoots out and the inmates broken bodies begin snapping back into proper place, the ensemble of bone fixing and ligament reattachment is sickening but doesn't last more than a few moments.
There is a combination of wails, crying and laughing from the lineup.
The air infront of his words vibrates and the column of air reaches out to the lineup of prisoners. Think black cords wrap threw their lips and sew their mouths shut. Some grasp at their mouths. Their moans can still be heard.
The man reaches out a hand and grabs the woman's forehead, her and all other inmates in the line throw their back. Their eyes glow white as they look up to the dark sky.
CUT TO:
INT. INMATE'S MIND
The hooded man stands in a large hall. The enclosed black hall is the shape of the inside of a skull. The walls of this room glow faintly white. The man stands on a ledge where the prefrontal cortex is.
He stands in a thin pool of water which gently splashes as he walks to the ledge of the platform. Once there he looks down to see a small naked figure crouching at the base, where the spinal cord leads out.
The man looks down and reaches out, his arm is stopped by an invisible wall, brown rotted strings which run top to bottom vibrate revealing the barrier. The man steps back and inspects the barriers edges and it's construction. He steps back up and plucks a rotted string. When he turns around he pulls a large medieval sword from his cloak and begins to slice as the edges of the veil. The tattered rope falls down the ledge to the platform where the naked figure sits. The figure looks up at the falling ropes infront of her.
The hooded man sheaths his sword into nothing and looks back down at the woman over the ledge. He beckons for her and she stands up.
She begins to float up to the man with increasing speed until:
CUT TO:
EXT. ASKABAN. NIGHT
The inmates whip their heads back forwards, groaning and grasping their heads in pain.
The man surveys his work looking up and down the lineup, some of the prisoners realize their predicament of standing 300 feet over a cold ocean and back up as far as they can, flush with the wall.
He waits for a moment.
The floating brick then lines up in the empty spot, right in front of the man's face, and slams back into the wall, taking the man's head with it. His headless body crumbles and begins to fall, before the hooded man gestures and the corpse is suspended limply on the platform.
A tall woman next in line stumbles back from seeing this and falls off her platform. She falls out of frame before being brought back up by the man. She crys hysterically.
People in the lineups scream and crouch to try and avoid the flying bricks, but they are held up by invisible strings, and stare screaming as the black bricks come crashing back.
This happens twelve times going down the line, but skipping the ragged woman in the center who starts sobbing when's she's skipped.
Once all the others in the lineup are dead, their limp bodies standing on the platforms, and a bloody rim to the bricks behind where their heads should be, the man approaches the woman slowly.
The hooded man sighs.
He gestures and cords appears from his hands and tie around the 13 figures to hold them up once he leaves. He goes back and looks at the puppet like scene he leaves, and he nods. Then, and quietly as he came, he flys off into darkness, putting back on his hood.
MATCH CUT TO:
EXT. AZKABAN. DAY
The storm has cleared and the sky is a bright blue with few white clouds dotted around.
A group of well dressed men and women sit suspended on broomsticks, looking at the wall.
submitted by ZealousidealEnd157 to harrypotter [link] [comments]
EXT. AZKABAN. NIGHT
The perpetual storm outside rages: lashing at the dark prism which protrudes from the restless ocean.
Lightening cracks and chips the blackened bricks on the corners of the equilateral roof.
A dark, hooded figure floats above the frothing sea towards the prison. His face is hidden but his pale, scarred hands can be seen protruding from his tattered robe. The audience think he must be some sort of dementor by the cloak, the nature of his travel and the destination of his journey.
However when the figure approaches an upper third of a rectangular side of Azkaban, he raises a scarred hand towards the brickwork: a spiraling red stream of electricity shoots out from his fingers and hits the blackened brickwork. The wall of the prison explodes outward, the shattered bricks falling into the dark waters below.
The hooded figure glides into Azkaban and steps lightly onto the cobbled passageway inside the building.
CUT TO:
INT. AZKABAN
A group of similarly hooded guards float inches off the floor facing the intruder standing at the edge of the blasted hole in the wall he had made.
Seven feet tall, with a dark boney figure, they are similar in appearance to the man, and the dementors seem confused by his arrival. More dementors gather as the crowd approach the man, their rattling breaths create a horrifying chorus of sickness.
Before the crowd reach within 6 feet of the man, he lazily extends an arm: this time, a pale blue mist falls gently before a contorting shape forces it's way out from the man's hand. It grows, bones cracking uncomfortably, taking the shape of a ghostly bear. The patronus of the bear is formidable in size, however it's scarred and manged. The bear is hardly covered in any translucent blue fur, the few patches left protrude randomly across it's body. It's face is scarred and disfigured, one eye is fused shut. The bear snarls and growls deeply at the crowd of dementors and breaks into the crazed run at the figures. It barks as it runs, contorts it's body as it chases. Foamed spit falls out it's mouth as it lunges to bite the dementors. The crowd fall back down the dark corridor, chased by the man's patronus.
On the right, all the way down the corridor, are a series of adjacent cells, the fourth wall facing the corridor being thick wrought iron bars. The occupants of each cell had wildly different reactions to this intruder. Some rattled the bars of their cages and exclaimed wildly, some rocked in the center of their damp cells, quietly rocking and muttering to themselves. All were decidedly mad.
The hooded man looked down the corridor at the barred cells, by raising his arm, each inmate levitate off the floor, then with a sudden jerk of his arm, the figures fly to the barred wall of their cell their bodies do not fit naturally through the gaps in the bars, but they continue going through, their bones snapping and twisting to allow this.
The deafening screams of the prisoners echo down the dark corridor as they go through the bars and then float in a neat line in the center of the corridor. The hooded man then turns out to the open sea and floats up, the parade of contorted bodies follow.
The hooded man rises up and turns back to face the side of the building. He subtlety flicks his hands and the group of broken bodies line up horizontally against the black wall. With another motion, a large wall stone pushes out from the flush brickwork. Creating a small ledge for the prisoners to stand on. Their broken feet and legs crumble and they begin to collapse and fall off the ledge, however before falling to the sea below the floating man raises both his hands, a thin green mist shoots out and the inmates broken bodies begin snapping back into proper place, the ensemble of bone fixing and ligament reattachment is sickening but doesn't last more than a few moments.
There is a combination of wails, crying and laughing from the lineup.
HOODED MAN:< Quiet!<He has a deep rattling voice.
The air infront of his words vibrates and the column of air reaches out to the lineup of prisoners. Think black cords wrap threw their lips and sew their mouths shut. Some grasp at their mouths. Their moans can still be heard.
HOODED MAN:< You may be hoping I've come to free you. I have not.<Some of the people laugh manically through their sewn mouths.
HOODED MAN:< You hide behind veils of madness. To shield yourselves from your circumstance. Perhaps remorse would lead you here, more likely you'd rather laugh here than cry. But it's a façade, you do not know true madness, your insanity is a flimsy curtain to hide your true self from the realities of your situation, no. This pathetic pretence will not do. I want you to beg for mercy. It would be easier if you did so now. But I know you will not. I will take these veils from you and you will see the world as it is. And then you will beg.<The hooded man rushes towards a hysterically laughing women in the center of the lineup.
HOODED MAN:< And I will kill you.<She laughs even harder through her sewn mouth.
The man reaches out a hand and grabs the woman's forehead, her and all other inmates in the line throw their back. Their eyes glow white as they look up to the dark sky.
CUT TO:
INT. INMATE'S MIND
The hooded man stands in a large hall. The enclosed black hall is the shape of the inside of a skull. The walls of this room glow faintly white. The man stands on a ledge where the prefrontal cortex is.
He stands in a thin pool of water which gently splashes as he walks to the ledge of the platform. Once there he looks down to see a small naked figure crouching at the base, where the spinal cord leads out.
The man looks down and reaches out, his arm is stopped by an invisible wall, brown rotted strings which run top to bottom vibrate revealing the barrier. The man steps back and inspects the barriers edges and it's construction. He steps back up and plucks a rotted string. When he turns around he pulls a large medieval sword from his cloak and begins to slice as the edges of the veil. The tattered rope falls down the ledge to the platform where the naked figure sits. The figure looks up at the falling ropes infront of her.
The hooded man sheaths his sword into nothing and looks back down at the woman over the ledge. He beckons for her and she stands up.
She begins to float up to the man with increasing speed until:
CUT TO:
EXT. ASKABAN. NIGHT
The inmates whip their heads back forwards, groaning and grasping their heads in pain.
HOODED MAN:< (With satisfaction) There.<The groaning of the inmates has stopped and now they stare terrified at the man, in silence. Waiting for his next word.
The man surveys his work looking up and down the lineup, some of the prisoners realize their predicament of standing 300 feet over a cold ocean and back up as far as they can, flush with the wall.
He waits for a moment.
HOODED MAN:< Now-<He rushes in to the side of the central woman, his hood flies off as he does so, revealing a scarred face with a mop of short black hair. Lines of black spider like veins run up his face, scars and burned markings adorn his face, little runes and symbols. The marks look self inflicted, like he's tried to shove foreign objects into his face, and presumably body. It's grotesque to look at.
HOODED MAN:< - you will beg.<There is an eruption of begging and pleading from the group who have dropped any pretence of not caring about living.
CROWD OF INMATES:< Please. No- I can change- I didn't mean to, you have to understand.<The hooded man falls back and begins to laugh.
HOODED MAN:< Yes, yes YES!<He laughs louder and louder as their pleas become louder and more desperate.
HOODED MAN:< (Quietly, barely a whisper) Now, you die.<He snaps his head to look at a small man at the left end of the lineup. A large brick to the right of the man's head slides slowly out of the wall, the pleading of the crowd has stopped to watch what happens to the man. When the first brick slides all the way out, the brick next in line to the left, behind the man's head slides to take the place of the first brick.
The floating brick then lines up in the empty spot, right in front of the man's face, and slams back into the wall, taking the man's head with it. His headless body crumbles and begins to fall, before the hooded man gestures and the corpse is suspended limply on the platform.
A tall woman next in line stumbles back from seeing this and falls off her platform. She falls out of frame before being brought back up by the man. She crys hysterically.
WOMAN:< Please, no you don't understand PLEASE!<The process happens more quickly this time, the brick movement happening more fluidly, ending with the crunching thud.
People in the lineups scream and crouch to try and avoid the flying bricks, but they are held up by invisible strings, and stare screaming as the black bricks come crashing back.
This happens twelve times going down the line, but skipping the ragged woman in the center who starts sobbing when's she's skipped.
Once all the others in the lineup are dead, their limp bodies standing on the platforms, and a bloody rim to the bricks behind where their heads should be, the man approaches the woman slowly.
HOODED MAN:< Do you know who I am?<She shakes her head.
HOODED MAN:< No I wouldn't expect you to. But I remember you.<He laughs and points at her.
HOODED MAN:< That's why I'm here. For closure.<He floats back for a last time, and orchestrates the same brick movement, sliding out and replacing, however this time it happens at chest level, and when the brick slams back into the wall, it creates a rectangular gap in her chest, which she looks down at as she dies. She moans and coughs weakly, before going limp.
WOMAN:< I don't understand.<
HOODED MAN:< And that's how it'll end.<
The hooded man sighs.
He gestures and cords appears from his hands and tie around the 13 figures to hold them up once he leaves. He goes back and looks at the puppet like scene he leaves, and he nods. Then, and quietly as he came, he flys off into darkness, putting back on his hood.
MATCH CUT TO:
EXT. AZKABAN. DAY
The storm has cleared and the sky is a bright blue with few white clouds dotted around.
A group of well dressed men and women sit suspended on broomsticks, looking at the wall.
DETECTIVE 1:< What the fuck is this.<
DETECTIVE 2:< It's sick. I mean they deserved it, but it's sick.<
DETECTIVE 1:< (as he tugs on one of the strings) Fucking hell. So this guy, broke through the protective barriers, and enchantments on the walls, pushed off the entirety of the Azkaban guard force, took out the whole floor of prisoners and then did this?<
DETECTIVE 2:< Looks like it.<
2024.05.21 21:39 Nick180777 Veiled Eyes 1
Hello, here I am once again! First ever Fan-Fic.
Last week I opened a poll about the type of Fan-Fic I should write (or try to), and after a good 4 days I took a look at said poll, and the overwhelming majority went for Option 2. And so I shall try my hardest to deliver, and give you all a story about Humanity entering on the Galactic stage later and being more prepared for eventual hostile encounters, and acting as such.
Let's see what I can cook up in my tired state- Some creative liberties are to be expected.
Still thinking of a Title- but this is the one I came up with.
... Also consider this a proof of concept for now, a WIP if you will, as I'm still new to writing (and not a native English speaker either) and wanting to learn as much as possible while writing anything at all- so expect word vomit. Any and all feedback will be welcomed.
Lastly, all love to for having made such an amazing universe.
===---===
Memory Transcription Subject: N/A, AI Communications Unit Terminal, UN-HQ.
Date [Standardized Human Time]: January 1st, 2300, 00:00
...
<>
<>
...
<>
...
<>
...
<>
...
<>
...
...
<<00:15, Probe successfully launched. Explore protocol initiated.>>
<>
<
submitted by Nick180777 to NatureofPredators [link] [comments]
Last week I opened a poll about the type of Fan-Fic I should write (or try to), and after a good 4 days I took a look at said poll, and the overwhelming majority went for Option 2. And so I shall try my hardest to deliver, and give you all a story about Humanity entering on the Galactic stage later and being more prepared for eventual hostile encounters, and acting as such.
Let's see what I can cook up in my tired state- Some creative liberties are to be expected.
Still thinking of a Title- but this is the one I came up with.
... Also consider this a proof of concept for now, a WIP if you will, as I'm still new to writing (and not a native English speaker either) and wanting to learn as much as possible while writing anything at all- so expect word vomit. Any and all feedback will be welcomed.
Lastly, all love to for having made such an amazing universe.
===---===
Memory Transcription Subject: N/A, AI Communications Unit Terminal, UN-HQ.
Date [Standardized Human Time]: January 1st, 2300, 00:00
...
<
<
...
<
...
<
...
<
...
<
...
...
<<00:15, Probe successfully launched. Explore protocol initiated.>>
<
<
2024.05.21 20:18 DonRedPandaKeys But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns surround you, and you dwell among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or dismayed by their presence, though they are a rebellious house. - Ez. 2: 6
[ Notice: Not my article. Link: https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/08/here-is-answer-to-comment-that-was-left.html ]
~COMMENT:~ Hello Pearl! I can only thank Jah that i found you! After seventeen years as a JW, i found myself so disturbed and distraught (i.e., sighing and groaning) over what was going on that i just couldn't bring myself to attend the meetings anymore. Prior to my departure, i discerned that much of the Society's liturature was laced with poison so i completely stopped reading any of it and began studying the scriptures only. What a difference that made! While i secretly never agreed with some of the Governing Body's official doctrines, policies and procedures (i viewed them as unscriptural, even idolatrous in some cases), when i realized that they couldn't possibly be the "faithful and discreet slave" (that is a future designation and only Jah/Jesus appoint these individuals, not themselves), I got the last bit of courage needed to finally leave and begin searching. Eventually i found your blog and now check it nearly everyday for any new information. A very close friend of mine who has also left after nearly twenty years as a JW (she just couldn't deal with it emotionally/mentally anymore) also reads your blogs and is as electrified as I am to be finally experiencing the true meaning of the "light getting brighter"!
So here's my question: How do we sound the warning that you mentioned? Since it's likely that no one on the inside will listen, what good will it do? Besides, you said yourself that a Christian is not obligated to sow seed among thorns. So while I have the desire to help others get out of symbolic Jerusalem, I do not know how to go about it nor do i see any point in it. Simply mentioning that i was no longer attending meetings (besides making a brief comment about the hypocrisy in the congregation) was enough for one person --someone i considered a good friend previously--to immediately cease all association with me. Thus, even hinting at the idea that the Organization is not all that its cracked up to be will send 99.9% of 'em running with their thumbs in their ears! Please advise. Thank You!
~REPLY:~ I also, am greatly relieved to hear that you have found the truth, which I myself am so grateful to YHVH's spirit for. There are those who read it and recognize none of the truth of the cited scriptures...and then there are expressions like yours, which reveal eyes and ears that are open, and a consciousness of their spiritual poverty (Matt.5:3). This need is keen during this spiritual famine and drought (Amos 8:11; Rev.6:6; 18:8; 12:14)...yet the spiritual pestilence that strikes others with blindness and an inability to hear, keeps them sick and unaware of their dire need (Matt.13:15; Rev.3:17; 6:8). The senseless are the ~great~ ~majority~ (Matt.7:13,14; Luke 13:23,24; Matt.24:22; Ps.94:17,5,8,12,13,14,16,18,20,22,23,20, 21; Rev.20:9,7,8,9; 13:15; 11:7; 6:9,11). So to hear that my labors, (and that of other faithful) are reaching some, is of great refreshment, and relief to my grief (Matt.10:42).
The Bible reads; "But God also rescued Lot out of Sodom because he was a righteous man who was sick of the shameful immorality of the wicked people around him. Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day. So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment." 2Pet. 2:7-9 (Eze.9:4)
"The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2Chron. 16:9 A
We see from these three scriptures that Yhwh will not abandon those whose heart is exclusively devoted to Him. He delivers them by His strength (2Chron. 16:9). His Spirit can bring them to the truth (John 6:44; 14:6) as He does for each faithful anointed one, as well as all those who may accept the "fine fruit" the faithful witnesses offer (Matt.10:40,41,42; Matt.7:20; Rev.11:3,4).
Regarding your question, Yhwh has begun to make me aware of what I must do, as well as how to do it. You are right that God's "Land" must be warned (Jer.25:30,29; Rev.2:20; 13:14). It is true that Satan has erected a wall around God's people. It would seem impossible to penetrate that wall with the judgment message. Remember the wall of Jericho? That prophecy will be fulfilled in its grandest meaning, in our very day (Josh.6:8,13; Rev.8:6). I am going to ask everyone whose heart inclines him to obey Eze.33:7,8 to be a part of the upcoming universal witness. For, it is the final one to be given. I am talking to another anointed one about how Holy Spirit is guiding this final warning. I will most certainly post all the details, as we become certain of how to do this in harmony with Yhvh's approval. The wall of Jericho fell, partly due to the blowing of the 7 horns of the priests (Joshua 6:8). This final wall of false teachings, which holds captive God's Called Ones, falls by the same means, as symbolized in Revelation (Rev.8:6). "Whether they hear, or whether they refrain" the warning must be given (Eze.2:5). This warning will be the main tool used to harvest the remaining wheat of anointed, upon which the arrival of the Kingdom awaits (Rev.14:14,15,16; 6:11). It is a very important activity, and I hope everyone possible will offer themselves to support it. The lives of those whom we regard as our "brothers and sisters", as well as the anointed who are still asleep and in chains, hangs in the balance. In fact it would be good to consider all of Ezekiel chapter 2, because it brings up the very "thorns" you mention.
Eze.2:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10: And he said to me, “Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you.” And as he spoke to me, the Spirit entered into me and set me on my feet, and I heard him speaking to me. And he said to me, “Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me. They and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day. The descendants also are impudent and stubborn: I send you to them, and you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God.’ And whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house) they will know that a prophet has been among them. And you, son of man, be not afraid of them, nor be afraid of their words, ~though briers and thorns are with you and you sit on scorpions.~ (Rev.9:3; Eze.2:6) Be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house. And ~you shall speak my words to them, whether they hear or refuse to hear~, for they are a rebellious house. But you, son of man, hear what I say to you. Be not rebellious like that rebellious house; open your mouth and eat what I give you.” And when I looked, behold, a hand was stretched out to me, and behold, a scroll of a book was in it. And he spread it before me. And it had writing on the front and on the back, and there were written on it words of lamentation and mourning and woe." (Rev.8:13; 20:12)
So while we are not obligated to cast pearls before swine; we need to discern who those swine, dogs, "~thorns~" and "scorpions" are. https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/06/dogs.html YHVH tells us in Rev.9:3,5,7.These are the ones bearing what seems like "crowns" of authority, an army that goes forth as multitudinous as a locust swarm. Their target? The "unsealed men", anointed previous to their being sealed. Why unsealed? Because they are obviously still under the domination of these "Locust/Scorpions" instead of Yhvh. Only by being set loose (Rev.9:14) from this smoke-like river of Satan's sons and their lies (Rev.12:15; 9:11; John 8:44; 2Thess. 2:3,9; Rev.12:3,9; 13:1,14,6); can these chosen ones become sealed as loyal to Yhvh (Rev.20:4). Yet we see from Eze.2 that a witness still has to be given to the "rebellious house". ~This is the light,~ although these empowered Locust/Scorpions exist, we may not conclude that all "Jehovah's Witnesses" are these "thorns". Only the elders are depicted as having counterfeit crowns of authority. These ones are the "thorns" and "scorpions". Yhvh tells us that they are beyond conversion to truth, by the "breastplates of iron" which they wear (Rev.9:9). While the entire "house"/"land"/"fold" of God's people are blinded by these insect vessels of darkness (Rev.9:2,3; Jer.25:29,30; Rev.12:16) and it causes them to leave loyalty to Yhvh; not all are those insects of authority/elders. We can not condone the idolatry of "Jehovah's Witnesses", nor continue to remain in company with them (Psalm 26:4; 1Cor. 5:11; Rev.18:4). But Ezekiel chapter 2 is clear, we must witness to them this final warning.
Jesus clearly showed me that the great majority will not heed the warning, not because we did not reach them with it, but due to their own hardened hearts, they stand as judged. Yhvh abandons them to their own desire. (Luke 17:28-37 LINK; 2Thess. 2:11; Ps.94:23) I hope you can see why this warning needs to be given. It saves us individually from blood-guilt. It establishes Yhvh's justice in condemning the wicked (who were first given warning). It saves those who can hear. It seals the rest of those who prove faithful, as well as the unfaithful "ten kings" who side with the Beast. All extremely important events of prophecy! I hope all who possibly can, will help. As I said, I will post details as they are established.
Your comments about the reaction of those marked by the Beast, help to illuminate the true identity of the Organization within prophecy. There is no other authority and power on earth, that has this control over people's minds and actions, as does this Wild Beast of Rev.13:8,15,16. We are seeing the fulfillment of that prophesied displaced loyalty and worship of the Wild Beast, right before our own eyes! God's Kingdom draws near!
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/warning-letter.html
Pearl's letter and Obadiah's letter
submitted by DonRedPandaKeys to ExJwPIMOandPOMO [link] [comments]
~COMMENT:~ Hello Pearl! I can only thank Jah that i found you! After seventeen years as a JW, i found myself so disturbed and distraught (i.e., sighing and groaning) over what was going on that i just couldn't bring myself to attend the meetings anymore. Prior to my departure, i discerned that much of the Society's liturature was laced with poison so i completely stopped reading any of it and began studying the scriptures only. What a difference that made! While i secretly never agreed with some of the Governing Body's official doctrines, policies and procedures (i viewed them as unscriptural, even idolatrous in some cases), when i realized that they couldn't possibly be the "faithful and discreet slave" (that is a future designation and only Jah/Jesus appoint these individuals, not themselves), I got the last bit of courage needed to finally leave and begin searching. Eventually i found your blog and now check it nearly everyday for any new information. A very close friend of mine who has also left after nearly twenty years as a JW (she just couldn't deal with it emotionally/mentally anymore) also reads your blogs and is as electrified as I am to be finally experiencing the true meaning of the "light getting brighter"!
So here's my question: How do we sound the warning that you mentioned? Since it's likely that no one on the inside will listen, what good will it do? Besides, you said yourself that a Christian is not obligated to sow seed among thorns. So while I have the desire to help others get out of symbolic Jerusalem, I do not know how to go about it nor do i see any point in it. Simply mentioning that i was no longer attending meetings (besides making a brief comment about the hypocrisy in the congregation) was enough for one person --someone i considered a good friend previously--to immediately cease all association with me. Thus, even hinting at the idea that the Organization is not all that its cracked up to be will send 99.9% of 'em running with their thumbs in their ears! Please advise. Thank You!
~REPLY:~ I also, am greatly relieved to hear that you have found the truth, which I myself am so grateful to YHVH's spirit for. There are those who read it and recognize none of the truth of the cited scriptures...and then there are expressions like yours, which reveal eyes and ears that are open, and a consciousness of their spiritual poverty (Matt.5:3). This need is keen during this spiritual famine and drought (Amos 8:11; Rev.6:6; 18:8; 12:14)...yet the spiritual pestilence that strikes others with blindness and an inability to hear, keeps them sick and unaware of their dire need (Matt.13:15; Rev.3:17; 6:8). The senseless are the ~great~ ~majority~ (Matt.7:13,14; Luke 13:23,24; Matt.24:22; Ps.94:17,5,8,12,13,14,16,18,20,22,23,20, 21; Rev.20:9,7,8,9; 13:15; 11:7; 6:9,11). So to hear that my labors, (and that of other faithful) are reaching some, is of great refreshment, and relief to my grief (Matt.10:42).
The Bible reads; "But God also rescued Lot out of Sodom because he was a righteous man who was sick of the shameful immorality of the wicked people around him. Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day. So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials, even while keeping the wicked under punishment until the day of final judgment." 2Pet. 2:7-9 (Eze.9:4)
"The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2Chron. 16:9 A
We see from these three scriptures that Yhwh will not abandon those whose heart is exclusively devoted to Him. He delivers them by His strength (2Chron. 16:9). His Spirit can bring them to the truth (John 6:44; 14:6) as He does for each faithful anointed one, as well as all those who may accept the "fine fruit" the faithful witnesses offer (Matt.10:40,41,42; Matt.7:20; Rev.11:3,4).
Regarding your question, Yhwh has begun to make me aware of what I must do, as well as how to do it. You are right that God's "Land" must be warned (Jer.25:30,29; Rev.2:20; 13:14). It is true that Satan has erected a wall around God's people. It would seem impossible to penetrate that wall with the judgment message. Remember the wall of Jericho? That prophecy will be fulfilled in its grandest meaning, in our very day (Josh.6:8,13; Rev.8:6). I am going to ask everyone whose heart inclines him to obey Eze.33:7,8 to be a part of the upcoming universal witness. For, it is the final one to be given. I am talking to another anointed one about how Holy Spirit is guiding this final warning. I will most certainly post all the details, as we become certain of how to do this in harmony with Yhvh's approval. The wall of Jericho fell, partly due to the blowing of the 7 horns of the priests (Joshua 6:8). This final wall of false teachings, which holds captive God's Called Ones, falls by the same means, as symbolized in Revelation (Rev.8:6). "Whether they hear, or whether they refrain" the warning must be given (Eze.2:5). This warning will be the main tool used to harvest the remaining wheat of anointed, upon which the arrival of the Kingdom awaits (Rev.14:14,15,16; 6:11). It is a very important activity, and I hope everyone possible will offer themselves to support it. The lives of those whom we regard as our "brothers and sisters", as well as the anointed who are still asleep and in chains, hangs in the balance. In fact it would be good to consider all of Ezekiel chapter 2, because it brings up the very "thorns" you mention.
Eze.2:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10: And he said to me, “Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you.” And as he spoke to me, the Spirit entered into me and set me on my feet, and I heard him speaking to me. And he said to me, “Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me. They and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day. The descendants also are impudent and stubborn: I send you to them, and you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord God.’ And whether they hear or refuse to hear (for they are a rebellious house) they will know that a prophet has been among them. And you, son of man, be not afraid of them, nor be afraid of their words, ~though briers and thorns are with you and you sit on scorpions.~ (Rev.9:3; Eze.2:6) Be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house. And ~you shall speak my words to them, whether they hear or refuse to hear~, for they are a rebellious house. But you, son of man, hear what I say to you. Be not rebellious like that rebellious house; open your mouth and eat what I give you.” And when I looked, behold, a hand was stretched out to me, and behold, a scroll of a book was in it. And he spread it before me. And it had writing on the front and on the back, and there were written on it words of lamentation and mourning and woe." (Rev.8:13; 20:12)
So while we are not obligated to cast pearls before swine; we need to discern who those swine, dogs, "~thorns~" and "scorpions" are. https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/06/dogs.html YHVH tells us in Rev.9:3,5,7.These are the ones bearing what seems like "crowns" of authority, an army that goes forth as multitudinous as a locust swarm. Their target? The "unsealed men", anointed previous to their being sealed. Why unsealed? Because they are obviously still under the domination of these "Locust/Scorpions" instead of Yhvh. Only by being set loose (Rev.9:14) from this smoke-like river of Satan's sons and their lies (Rev.12:15; 9:11; John 8:44; 2Thess. 2:3,9; Rev.12:3,9; 13:1,14,6); can these chosen ones become sealed as loyal to Yhvh (Rev.20:4). Yet we see from Eze.2 that a witness still has to be given to the "rebellious house". ~This is the light,~ although these empowered Locust/Scorpions exist, we may not conclude that all "Jehovah's Witnesses" are these "thorns". Only the elders are depicted as having counterfeit crowns of authority. These ones are the "thorns" and "scorpions". Yhvh tells us that they are beyond conversion to truth, by the "breastplates of iron" which they wear (Rev.9:9). While the entire "house"/"land"/"fold" of God's people are blinded by these insect vessels of darkness (Rev.9:2,3; Jer.25:29,30; Rev.12:16) and it causes them to leave loyalty to Yhvh; not all are those insects of authority/elders. We can not condone the idolatry of "Jehovah's Witnesses", nor continue to remain in company with them (Psalm 26:4; 1Cor. 5:11; Rev.18:4). But Ezekiel chapter 2 is clear, we must witness to them this final warning.
Jesus clearly showed me that the great majority will not heed the warning, not because we did not reach them with it, but due to their own hardened hearts, they stand as judged. Yhvh abandons them to their own desire. (Luke 17:28-37 LINK; 2Thess. 2:11; Ps.94:23) I hope you can see why this warning needs to be given. It saves us individually from blood-guilt. It establishes Yhvh's justice in condemning the wicked (who were first given warning). It saves those who can hear. It seals the rest of those who prove faithful, as well as the unfaithful "ten kings" who side with the Beast. All extremely important events of prophecy! I hope all who possibly can, will help. As I said, I will post details as they are established.
Your comments about the reaction of those marked by the Beast, help to illuminate the true identity of the Organization within prophecy. There is no other authority and power on earth, that has this control over people's minds and actions, as does this Wild Beast of Rev.13:8,15,16. We are seeing the fulfillment of that prophesied displaced loyalty and worship of the Wild Beast, right before our own eyes! God's Kingdom draws near!
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/warning-letter.html
Pearl's letter and Obadiah's letter
2024.05.21 20:17 No_Researcher3563 Kokushibo Analysis
What’s up everyone, wrote a Kokushibo analysis. If you enjoyed, make sure to follow my IG : @deitysthoughts (I analyse different media, but primarily animanga). Would appreciate it 💯. Let me know your thoughts in the comments too 🙏
Kokushibo is, without a doubt, the greatest new gen villain. His character embodies the themes of envy, his strive for perfection and power, ambition, and the consequences of one’s choices. Every action, thought and emotion that Koku has stems from his internal conflict. His conflict can be broken down into so many different sectors: his relationship with his brother, with Muzan, with Tanjiro and even himself. Thus, in return, we get an amazingly detailed character, allowing the viewers to be fully immersed in his conflict, making him a character who’s journey we can resonate with.
At his core, Kokushibo is driven by a profound sense of envy and inferiority. Born as Michikatsu, he is the older twin brother of Yoriichi - the undisputed ‘strongest’ Demon Slayer and the creator of the Sun Breathing technique. Despite Koku’s prodigious talent, he lived in the shadow of Yoriichi’s unparalleled abilities and innate potential. This sibling rivalry is pivotal, as it plants the seeds for Koku’s transformation. His envy is not merely a superficial desire to outshine his brother; it is a consuming force that corroded his sense of self-worth.
Michikatu’s decision to become a demon, taking the name of Kokushibo, is a manifestation of his deep-seated fear of mortality and failure. Unlike his brother, who’s strength is tied to his humanity’s compassion, Koku seeks power through any means necessary - even if it means losing himself in the process. This transition accentuates a key theme in Demon Slayer - the moral and existential costs of ambition. Koku’s transformation into a demon represents his ultimate surrender to his insecurities and rejection of the human values that his brother upheld.
Koku’s hybrid nature, retaining his Demon Slayer skills whilst embracing his demonic powers, creates a unique duality within his character. His Moon Breathing technique, which he developed as an answer to his brother’s Sun Breathing, symbolizes this dichotomy. The technique’s beautiful yet deadly implications reflects his internal conflict - the struggle between his remaining humanity and the overwhelming corruption of his demonic powers. This quality is further emphasised by his grotesque appearance, the Six Eyes.
In his interactions with his battles with the Hashira, his disdain for weakness contrasts with moments of introspection and regret. For instance, his encounter with Muichiro Tokito, a descendant of his lineage, triggers a rare moment of reflection. Despite his overwhelming power and contempt for others, Koku’s brief acknowledgment of his human past and fleeting moments of regrets added layers to his character.
The tragic dimensions of Koku’s character are emphasised by his downfall. Despite achieving immense power, his defeat by the Hashira is not merely a physical loss, but a culmination of his internet struggles. In his death, he realizes his quest for power ultimately led to his own destruction. This moment deepens the futility of his ambitions and the hollowness of the power he sought. He’s confronted with the painful truth that his relentless pursuit of strength only worsened his sense of loss.
Koku also serves as a powerful foil to Tanjiro, the main character. Both characters are driven by the loss of family and a desire for strength, yet their paths diverge dramatically. Whilst Tanjiro’s journey is marked by empathy, compassion and a commitment to protect others, Koku’s path is characterized by self-interest and envy. This dynamic highlights the outcomes of their respective choices, reinforcing the moral framework of the main theme of the show - true strength lies in compassion and selflessness.
Koku seeks to surpass his brother, yet is ultimately subservient to Muzan, who’s the pinnacle embodiment of a Demon. The irony is, in seeking to escape his brother’s shadow, he becomes a pawn for Muzan. He could never escape his past, and was always destined to be number two, never achieving the recognition he so greatly desired.
Kokushibo’s character is a fervent exploration of the human condition, the destructive nature of envy and the consequences of one’s choices. Through his backstory, abilities all the way to his interactions and his fate, he serves as a multifaceted antagonist who’s arc is a mirror to the struggles and virtues of both Tanjiro and Yoriichi.
submitted by No_Researcher3563 to KimetsuNoYaiba [link] [comments]
Kokushibo is, without a doubt, the greatest new gen villain. His character embodies the themes of envy, his strive for perfection and power, ambition, and the consequences of one’s choices. Every action, thought and emotion that Koku has stems from his internal conflict. His conflict can be broken down into so many different sectors: his relationship with his brother, with Muzan, with Tanjiro and even himself. Thus, in return, we get an amazingly detailed character, allowing the viewers to be fully immersed in his conflict, making him a character who’s journey we can resonate with.
At his core, Kokushibo is driven by a profound sense of envy and inferiority. Born as Michikatsu, he is the older twin brother of Yoriichi - the undisputed ‘strongest’ Demon Slayer and the creator of the Sun Breathing technique. Despite Koku’s prodigious talent, he lived in the shadow of Yoriichi’s unparalleled abilities and innate potential. This sibling rivalry is pivotal, as it plants the seeds for Koku’s transformation. His envy is not merely a superficial desire to outshine his brother; it is a consuming force that corroded his sense of self-worth.
Michikatu’s decision to become a demon, taking the name of Kokushibo, is a manifestation of his deep-seated fear of mortality and failure. Unlike his brother, who’s strength is tied to his humanity’s compassion, Koku seeks power through any means necessary - even if it means losing himself in the process. This transition accentuates a key theme in Demon Slayer - the moral and existential costs of ambition. Koku’s transformation into a demon represents his ultimate surrender to his insecurities and rejection of the human values that his brother upheld.
Koku’s hybrid nature, retaining his Demon Slayer skills whilst embracing his demonic powers, creates a unique duality within his character. His Moon Breathing technique, which he developed as an answer to his brother’s Sun Breathing, symbolizes this dichotomy. The technique’s beautiful yet deadly implications reflects his internal conflict - the struggle between his remaining humanity and the overwhelming corruption of his demonic powers. This quality is further emphasised by his grotesque appearance, the Six Eyes.
In his interactions with his battles with the Hashira, his disdain for weakness contrasts with moments of introspection and regret. For instance, his encounter with Muichiro Tokito, a descendant of his lineage, triggers a rare moment of reflection. Despite his overwhelming power and contempt for others, Koku’s brief acknowledgment of his human past and fleeting moments of regrets added layers to his character.
The tragic dimensions of Koku’s character are emphasised by his downfall. Despite achieving immense power, his defeat by the Hashira is not merely a physical loss, but a culmination of his internet struggles. In his death, he realizes his quest for power ultimately led to his own destruction. This moment deepens the futility of his ambitions and the hollowness of the power he sought. He’s confronted with the painful truth that his relentless pursuit of strength only worsened his sense of loss.
Koku also serves as a powerful foil to Tanjiro, the main character. Both characters are driven by the loss of family and a desire for strength, yet their paths diverge dramatically. Whilst Tanjiro’s journey is marked by empathy, compassion and a commitment to protect others, Koku’s path is characterized by self-interest and envy. This dynamic highlights the outcomes of their respective choices, reinforcing the moral framework of the main theme of the show - true strength lies in compassion and selflessness.
Koku seeks to surpass his brother, yet is ultimately subservient to Muzan, who’s the pinnacle embodiment of a Demon. The irony is, in seeking to escape his brother’s shadow, he becomes a pawn for Muzan. He could never escape his past, and was always destined to be number two, never achieving the recognition he so greatly desired.
Kokushibo’s character is a fervent exploration of the human condition, the destructive nature of envy and the consequences of one’s choices. Through his backstory, abilities all the way to his interactions and his fate, he serves as a multifaceted antagonist who’s arc is a mirror to the struggles and virtues of both Tanjiro and Yoriichi.
2024.05.21 20:14 LonelySoul3006 9702 Practical Paper 3 - Exam Tips
Physics P3 Practical tips:
Link to detailed video: https://youtu.be/2k4qyP4eSyM?feature=shared
Best of luck👍
submitted by LonelySoul3006 to alevel [link] [comments]
- First of all, please don't panic as there is enough time for you to do the entire questions.
- Make sure to right all the "measured values" correct to the instrument's decimal places.
- Sl units are not important for example a measurement written as "78mm" will score the same marks as the student who wrote "7.8 cm"
- However, consistency of units is important if you are starting the question by measuring length in "cms" then make sure you continue to measure lengths in "cms" throughout the question.
- Stop watch errouncertainty = 0.2-0.5s
- While making a table make sure all the values in a specific column have the same number of significant figures.
- The heading format of table is "Symbol/unit"
- For gradient calculations make sure you have marked the "dotted triangle" and labelled the points.
- If there is a point that is too skewed to be included in the graph mark it as an anomaly.
- If you are making a false origin don't make constrictions.
- Y-intercept can be calculated directly from the graph if the X-axis is starting from zero.
- Make sure to label the axes of the graph.
- Make sure to cover 70-80% of the graph (This is done by giving the appropriate scale.)
- When testing a certain relationship, calculate both values of the constant and check for percentage uncertainty. IF the percentage uncertainty is greater then 15 reject the relationship/hypothesis otherwise accept it.
Link to detailed video: https://youtu.be/2k4qyP4eSyM?feature=shared
Best of luck👍
2024.05.21 20:02 Lehrasap Muhammad MU - TIL - ATED LIVING animals (meant for sacrifice during Hajj) & GARLANDED them with Shoes
Muhammad drew inspiration for his new religion from the Jewish faith and incorporated various rituals and teachings. However, in a political move aimed at appeasing the Arab pagans, he also integrated the rituals of Hajj into Islamic Sharia.
The rituals of Hajj extended beyond animal sacrifice alone. There existed additional practices such as making cuts on the humps of camels, smearing blood on animals during the journey, and adorning their necks with strings of shoes.
Following the practices of the polytheistic Arabs, Muhammad included these rituals as part of Islamic Sharia.
Sahih Muslim, Book of Pilgrimage:
Ibn 'Abbas reported that Allah's Messenger observed the Zuhr prayer at Dhu'l-Hulaifa; then called for his she-camel and marked it (made a cut) on the right side of its bump, removed the blood from it, and tied two sandals around its neck (as garland).
Is it not an act of ignorance to adorn animals with strings of shoes? Why would Allah, the creator of not just the earth but the entire universe, require animals for sacrifice to be decorated with footwear?
Furthermore, what kind of intelligence is displayed by harming a living creature and considering it a symbolic act? Why subject animals to the humiliation of wearing shoe necklaces and causing them harm?
This practice was so lacking in wisdom that today many Muslims are abandoning it, despite it being considered an established "Sunnah of the Prophet."
Even Abu Hanifa, a renowned Islamic scholar, rejected this practice of Muhammad due to its cruelty. He refused to follow this Sunnah and claimed it to be a MUTILATION (مثلة) of animals.
Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 906:
Ibn Abbas narrated: "The Prophet garlanded two sandals and marked the Hadi (i.e. camel) on the right side (i.e. by cutting its hump) at Dhul-Hulaifah, and removed the blood from it." … Imam Wak’i told that the Prophet of Allah did al-Isha’ar (i.e. making a cut in the hump of camel), but Imam Abu Hanifa said that it was mutilation (مثلة) of an animal's body. One man said that Imam Ibrahim Nakhi’i also called al-Isha’ar to be mutilation. Upon hearing that, Wak’i became angry and said: “I am telling you the Sunnah of the holy prophet, but you tell me what Ibrahim Naki’i said. I deem it permissible to imprison you and not set you free till you abandon telling people (about the saying of Ibrahim Nakhi’i i.e. it is mutilation of an animal).Grade: Sahih (Authentic) Darussalam. More Details and Proofs:
submitted by Lehrasap to exmuslim [link] [comments]
The rituals of Hajj extended beyond animal sacrifice alone. There existed additional practices such as making cuts on the humps of camels, smearing blood on animals during the journey, and adorning their necks with strings of shoes.
Following the practices of the polytheistic Arabs, Muhammad included these rituals as part of Islamic Sharia.
Sahih Muslim, Book of Pilgrimage:
Ibn 'Abbas reported that Allah's Messenger observed the Zuhr prayer at Dhu'l-Hulaifa; then called for his she-camel and marked it (made a cut) on the right side of its bump, removed the blood from it, and tied two sandals around its neck (as garland).
Is it not an act of ignorance to adorn animals with strings of shoes? Why would Allah, the creator of not just the earth but the entire universe, require animals for sacrifice to be decorated with footwear?
Furthermore, what kind of intelligence is displayed by harming a living creature and considering it a symbolic act? Why subject animals to the humiliation of wearing shoe necklaces and causing them harm?
This practice was so lacking in wisdom that today many Muslims are abandoning it, despite it being considered an established "Sunnah of the Prophet."
Even Abu Hanifa, a renowned Islamic scholar, rejected this practice of Muhammad due to its cruelty. He refused to follow this Sunnah and claimed it to be a MUTILATION (مثلة) of animals.
Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 906:
Ibn Abbas narrated: "The Prophet garlanded two sandals and marked the Hadi (i.e. camel) on the right side (i.e. by cutting its hump) at Dhul-Hulaifah, and removed the blood from it." … Imam Wak’i told that the Prophet of Allah did al-Isha’ar (i.e. making a cut in the hump of camel), but Imam Abu Hanifa said that it was mutilation (مثلة) of an animal's body. One man said that Imam Ibrahim Nakhi’i also called al-Isha’ar to be mutilation. Upon hearing that, Wak’i became angry and said: “I am telling you the Sunnah of the holy prophet, but you tell me what Ibrahim Naki’i said. I deem it permissible to imprison you and not set you free till you abandon telling people (about the saying of Ibrahim Nakhi’i i.e. it is mutilation of an animal).Grade: Sahih (Authentic) Darussalam. More Details and Proofs:
- [Muhammad also MUTILATED LIVING animals & GARLANDED them with Shoes](index.php/divine-revelation-or-human-drama/240-muhammad-also-mutilated-living-animals-garlanded-them-with-shoes)
2024.05.21 19:58 livarobinn Family Name Change in USA
Family Name Change in USA
A person's decision to family name change is significant and meaningful to them and their loved ones. It's a procedure that involves more than just filing papers; it involves changing identities, securing estates and preparing for new beginnings. The decision to change a family name is a reflection of changing society standards and personal preferences in the United States where variety is valued and individual liberty is accepted.
Understanding the Value of Family Names
Family names are much more than simply labels; they are linked with our cultures, history and identities. They hold our forefathers' tales and family customs that have been handed down through the centuries. Family names connect us to our ancestors and give us a feeling of acceptance and connection. Family names are used in society as identifiers to set one person apart from another in a group. They have an impact on how we see ourselves and how others see us and they are important in legal papers, official records and social interactions. Also, family names frequently have symbolic connotations that represent regional origins, beliefs in religion or cultural customs. They honor those who came before us and serve as a reminder of our common history.
The importance of family names helps to explain why surname change is a serious choice. It entails balancing one's own identity with one's family's blood, handling complicated legal issues and taking the societal consequences of such a big change into consideration.
Reasons for Changing Family Names in USA
Knowing the reason of family name changes highlights the importance of this choice in people's lives and draws attention to the variety of factors that lead to these modifications. The main reasons are:
Marriage
One of the most popular reasons people decide to change their family name is marriage. Partners may choose to take one another's surname as a mark of unity and loyalty. Some spouses may want to honor their respective family identities by hyphenating both surnames. The choice to change one's family name after marriage is very personal and might be affected by social, cultural or personal values.
Divorce
As part of their struggle for independence and self-reinvention, people may decide to choose a whole new surname or attempt to go back to their maiden name after a divorce. Regaining their old name usually signals a couple's intent to close the chapter on their previous relationship and return to who they were before marriage. It may be strong and symbolic of a fresh start to change a family name after divorce.
Adoption
Adopted children and adults may choose to take on the surname of their adopted family. This choice creates stronger familial ties and represents how they fit into the new family. Adopting a child and creating a new family name are involves a significant emotional and legal change as the adoptee accepts their new family identity and builds relationships with their new relatives.
Legal Process of Changing Family Names in USA
It takes careful attention to detail and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations to successfully navigate the legal process of changing a family name. Below are the key steps involved in the legal process of changing a family name:
Filing a Petition
Filing a petition with the local court is the first step in changing a family name. A name change petition usually contains the petitioner's existing name, their desire for a new name, reasons for the name change (such as marriage, divorce or adoption) and any supporting evidence. A filing fee could also be required for the applicant to pay as part of the procedure.
Publication Requirement
A publishing requirement exists for family name changes in multiple countries. This entails notifying the public and providing an opportunity for any concerns to be expressed about the family name change by posting a notice in the local newspaper. The purpose of the publication requirement is to guarantee openness and provide those who are interested a chance to express any reservations they may have about the planned family name change.
Court Hearing
A court hearing is usually set following the filing of the petition and the fulfillment of any publication requirements. The petitioner might have to appear in front of the court during the hearing to make their case for the family name change. Ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and the judge will examine the petition and any supporting materials and may pose additional questions. A court order formally authorizing the intended name change will be issued if the judge grants the request.
Costs Associated with Family Name Change in USA
The state and county in which the petition is submitted determine the exact price of changing a family name. On the other hand, typical costs that includes court filing fees which can run from a few hundred to rather small amounts. These fees pay for the administrative expenses involved in using the court system to complete the name change petition.
If someone decides to engage a lawyer to help with the name change procedure then they may also have to pay legal fees in addition to court fees. Legal counsel may prove advantageous, and particularly when understanding complex legal requirements or handling any challenges that may surface throughout the process. The total cost of altering a family name may be considerably increased by legal expenses. Changing a family name pays a number of charges that including court fees, publishing costs and any other costs related with changing legal documents and records.
Conclusion
Changing a family name is a big decision with practical, emotional and legal consequences. People may go through this change with confidence and clarity if they know what to expect and how to proceed.
submitted by livarobinn to u/livarobinn [link] [comments]
A person's decision to family name change is significant and meaningful to them and their loved ones. It's a procedure that involves more than just filing papers; it involves changing identities, securing estates and preparing for new beginnings. The decision to change a family name is a reflection of changing society standards and personal preferences in the United States where variety is valued and individual liberty is accepted.
Understanding the Value of Family Names
Family names are much more than simply labels; they are linked with our cultures, history and identities. They hold our forefathers' tales and family customs that have been handed down through the centuries. Family names connect us to our ancestors and give us a feeling of acceptance and connection. Family names are used in society as identifiers to set one person apart from another in a group. They have an impact on how we see ourselves and how others see us and they are important in legal papers, official records and social interactions. Also, family names frequently have symbolic connotations that represent regional origins, beliefs in religion or cultural customs. They honor those who came before us and serve as a reminder of our common history.
The importance of family names helps to explain why surname change is a serious choice. It entails balancing one's own identity with one's family's blood, handling complicated legal issues and taking the societal consequences of such a big change into consideration.
Reasons for Changing Family Names in USA
Knowing the reason of family name changes highlights the importance of this choice in people's lives and draws attention to the variety of factors that lead to these modifications. The main reasons are:
Marriage
One of the most popular reasons people decide to change their family name is marriage. Partners may choose to take one another's surname as a mark of unity and loyalty. Some spouses may want to honor their respective family identities by hyphenating both surnames. The choice to change one's family name after marriage is very personal and might be affected by social, cultural or personal values.
Divorce
As part of their struggle for independence and self-reinvention, people may decide to choose a whole new surname or attempt to go back to their maiden name after a divorce. Regaining their old name usually signals a couple's intent to close the chapter on their previous relationship and return to who they were before marriage. It may be strong and symbolic of a fresh start to change a family name after divorce.
Adoption
Adopted children and adults may choose to take on the surname of their adopted family. This choice creates stronger familial ties and represents how they fit into the new family. Adopting a child and creating a new family name are involves a significant emotional and legal change as the adoptee accepts their new family identity and builds relationships with their new relatives.
Legal Process of Changing Family Names in USA
It takes careful attention to detail and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations to successfully navigate the legal process of changing a family name. Below are the key steps involved in the legal process of changing a family name:
Filing a Petition
Filing a petition with the local court is the first step in changing a family name. A name change petition usually contains the petitioner's existing name, their desire for a new name, reasons for the name change (such as marriage, divorce or adoption) and any supporting evidence. A filing fee could also be required for the applicant to pay as part of the procedure.
Publication Requirement
A publishing requirement exists for family name changes in multiple countries. This entails notifying the public and providing an opportunity for any concerns to be expressed about the family name change by posting a notice in the local newspaper. The purpose of the publication requirement is to guarantee openness and provide those who are interested a chance to express any reservations they may have about the planned family name change.
Court Hearing
A court hearing is usually set following the filing of the petition and the fulfillment of any publication requirements. The petitioner might have to appear in front of the court during the hearing to make their case for the family name change. Ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and the judge will examine the petition and any supporting materials and may pose additional questions. A court order formally authorizing the intended name change will be issued if the judge grants the request.
Costs Associated with Family Name Change in USA
The state and county in which the petition is submitted determine the exact price of changing a family name. On the other hand, typical costs that includes court filing fees which can run from a few hundred to rather small amounts. These fees pay for the administrative expenses involved in using the court system to complete the name change petition.
If someone decides to engage a lawyer to help with the name change procedure then they may also have to pay legal fees in addition to court fees. Legal counsel may prove advantageous, and particularly when understanding complex legal requirements or handling any challenges that may surface throughout the process. The total cost of altering a family name may be considerably increased by legal expenses. Changing a family name pays a number of charges that including court fees, publishing costs and any other costs related with changing legal documents and records.
Conclusion
Changing a family name is a big decision with practical, emotional and legal consequences. People may go through this change with confidence and clarity if they know what to expect and how to proceed.
2024.05.21 19:49 syntaxofthings123 Evidence Matters
Recently there was a true crime episode on the murder of Colleen Slemmer by her Jobs Corp classmates Christa Pike, Pike's boyfriend Tadaryl Shipp and another friend. It was a spontaneous, gruesome murder, that took place in the woods of Tennessee.
Slemmer, was lured out under false pretenses of smoking weed in a nearby park with who she thought were her friends. She was murdered, left partially unclothed, her upper body completely exposed. And though the primary motive wasn't a ritualistic sacrifice, in the course of the attack a Satanic star or pentagram was carved into the victim's chest.
Though the satanic piece to the crime was an afterthought by the killers, it did link the crime to two of them, as Christa Pike and her boyfriend, Shipp, practiced Satanic Worship. The murder was motivated by jealousy and rage, but even so, the symbolism left behind, might have solved the crime on its own.
There might be parallels to be found between a crime like the Slemmer murder, and what happened in Delphi.
The Delphi murders don't have to have been motivated primarily by a sacrificial ritual for the symbolism of such a ritual left at the crime scene, to lead to the killer or killers of Abby and Libby.
Coincidences do occur. Correlation does not necessarily imply causation. But when there is evidence that keeps pointing to a particular group of people, some of whom had a direct connection to one of the victims, I do not understand how this evidence is not followed up on to the fullest extent that the law allows. How is it just cast aside, especially when three respected investigators who performed their own investigation are convinced there is something there? Referring to Click, Ferency and Murphy.
Even if the killing of Abby and Libby was initially motivated by something other than a sacrifice, the mark of their killers at the scene, almost certainly will lead back to who did this. The crime scene was too distinctive and unique for it not to. All persons are innocent until proven guilty, and that's important to factor in. But even if innocent, there certainly appears to be some connection between certain individuals practicing Odinism and hanging out at Delphi Vinlander club, and the Delphi murders---evidence connecting them to these murders that might actually solve this case.
Here is the list of evidence that has still not been turned over to the defense, even though this case was scheduled to be in trial as this is written (from 2nd Motion to Dismiss).
Why?
submitted by syntaxofthings123 to RichardAllenInnocent [link] [comments]
Slemmer, was lured out under false pretenses of smoking weed in a nearby park with who she thought were her friends. She was murdered, left partially unclothed, her upper body completely exposed. And though the primary motive wasn't a ritualistic sacrifice, in the course of the attack a Satanic star or pentagram was carved into the victim's chest.
Though the satanic piece to the crime was an afterthought by the killers, it did link the crime to two of them, as Christa Pike and her boyfriend, Shipp, practiced Satanic Worship. The murder was motivated by jealousy and rage, but even so, the symbolism left behind, might have solved the crime on its own.
There might be parallels to be found between a crime like the Slemmer murder, and what happened in Delphi.
The Delphi murders don't have to have been motivated primarily by a sacrificial ritual for the symbolism of such a ritual left at the crime scene, to lead to the killer or killers of Abby and Libby.
Coincidences do occur. Correlation does not necessarily imply causation. But when there is evidence that keeps pointing to a particular group of people, some of whom had a direct connection to one of the victims, I do not understand how this evidence is not followed up on to the fullest extent that the law allows. How is it just cast aside, especially when three respected investigators who performed their own investigation are convinced there is something there? Referring to Click, Ferency and Murphy.
Even if the killing of Abby and Libby was initially motivated by something other than a sacrifice, the mark of their killers at the scene, almost certainly will lead back to who did this. The crime scene was too distinctive and unique for it not to. All persons are innocent until proven guilty, and that's important to factor in. But even if innocent, there certainly appears to be some connection between certain individuals practicing Odinism and hanging out at Delphi Vinlander club, and the Delphi murders---evidence connecting them to these murders that might actually solve this case.
Here is the list of evidence that has still not been turned over to the defense, even though this case was scheduled to be in trial as this is written (from 2nd Motion to Dismiss).
Why?
The Exculpatory Nature of the Missing Evidence
Currently, the list of missing evidence that the prosecution has not turned over to the defense includes the following:
a. Video of BH’s first interview from February 17, 2017.
b. Video of LH’s interview from February 17, 2017.
c. Data from BH’s phone extraction from February 17, 2017.
d. Video from BH’s second interview with law enforcement taken at the Logansport Police Station sometime in 2017 or 2018.
e. Audio taken from BH’s second interview with law enforcement taken at the Logansport Police Station sometime in 2017 or 2018.
f. Any reports, notes or documents concerning or referring to BH’s second interview at the Logansport Police Station sometime in 2017 or 2018.
g. Mimicked Crime Scene Photo observed by Trooper Purdy on BH's social media page. h. Images Ryan Boucher sent to Trooper Winters on April 12, 2017.
Notice that all missing items are related to third-party suspect BH
2024.05.21 19:16 Professional_Disk131 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
 | submitted by Professional_Disk131 to Wealthsimple_Penny [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/bgr8hekyat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9570556073c1ba6aa538e97fcab7003e4a1e7441 Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. https://preview.redd.it/5px5o4dxbt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f41ee7f8f291a5016c42cde6db2a82c731d8a794 Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship Asset Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction. ● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. https://preview.redd.it/pq6z9c9ybt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=779cd8f5742232c0b06ac8114308bc407bd22952 Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement Offering Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers. Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund https://preview.redd.it/hs7dstzybt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e5d5f5e0ba6fe14e8b994ffc6035334ecf5a576b Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange The company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors. ● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement https://preview.redd.it/eq4ewh10ct1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9fcca0eda108dedd535b8fa2e3dd764535cf0e86 The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium Production As global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth. ● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. https://preview.redd.it/uiexnnr0ct1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=754dab7a12378f7712d806e1de59fb31813bec4d The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy Transition Nuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. ● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. https://preview.redd.it/b1ilpac1ct1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b2b82d67c49701039558409ff410112774b040df Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market Impact Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand. ● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future. |
2024.05.21 19:15 Professional_Disk131 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship Asset Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction. ● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement Offering Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers. Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange The company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors. ● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium Production As global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth. ● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy Transition Nuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. ● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market Impact Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand. ● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future.
submitted by Professional_Disk131 to Pennystock [link] [comments]
2024.05.21 19:10 Professional_Disk131 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
 | submitted by Professional_Disk131 to Stocks_Picks [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/zyafdvexat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1d59369ae087076b4e3ca93cf6f140a88756c320 Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. https://preview.redd.it/qx7xlawzat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=085508c319dd258913f262674ff8d47c0cc3abeb Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship Asset Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction. ● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. https://preview.redd.it/oav1sym0bt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=119adef41e65a9e19c1771baa887db003cb4d075 Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement Offering Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers. Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund https://preview.redd.it/c5u92e81bt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=69b6116a76a8af5b5c14f87d0168bdfa997cae14 Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange The company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors. ● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement https://preview.redd.it/v360rgu1bt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a71c3513f997a1c14911dd15edfb92f461037182 The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium Production As global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth. ● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. https://preview.redd.it/n79olki2bt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bc9b415c11cfdf03a2bc45e79e3e4de0ecd2ad1c The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy Transition Nuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. ● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. https://preview.redd.it/hhmk1t63bt1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7cd447fadc778790a8012bdeb12051637bd673f8 Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market Impact Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand. ● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future. |
2024.05.21 19:09 Professional_Disk131 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
 | submitted by Professional_Disk131 to CanadianStockExchange [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/x16oindkat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a752c372cdc441ebbc245be65bb0364f6c81f0c2 Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. https://preview.redd.it/c0k23xvlat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d63167ae3cdec356eb70d998e0d3ac8931731b7f Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship Asset Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction. ● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. https://preview.redd.it/1rvhfvdnat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fd2736f0d01969f1cbd9387d165eeed6608985fe Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement Offering Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers. Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund https://preview.redd.it/ce3thffoat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c800a0291c967a3674026ad6cdf68052675d45bc Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange The company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors. ● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement https://preview.redd.it/o29oc04qat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9ed0439bf536f0c760cd265049c6b2923d724f5e The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium Production As global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth. ● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. https://preview.redd.it/t15geewrat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bbc7ac14f94733089c362836cc065db7f94697e0 The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy Transition Nuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. ● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. https://preview.redd.it/g9pkpavtat1d1.jpg?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e1e959bcef6fb7be02013f67378892b1c5d9007 Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market Impact Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand. ● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future. |
2024.05.21 19:00 lordwebgarlicbread Am I going to get penalised for using "∴" and "∵" in my biology mock?
I had my year 12 mocks last week and I'm stressing out, could my teachers take marks off for using those symbols in written questions instead of writing them out fully? Sorry if this is a stupid question.
submitted by lordwebgarlicbread to 6thForm [link] [comments]
2024.05.21 18:49 MightBeneficial3302 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
 | submitted by MightBeneficial3302 to MetalBulls [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/qs81owmq6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=a1ae341d72ac215f544ff220187f39c1718782f8 Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. https://preview.redd.it/o730pifs6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=9d585955aec30a78b8b5eb7f2267f12d5686d024 Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship AssetGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction.● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. https://preview.redd.it/yur3b9du6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=d3ba63cb49b7d1b485d12639b09689181597d54e Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement OfferingGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers.Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund https://preview.redd.it/y1598ukw6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=dc384c3e6ee14d3379dba703ef9ec924201785ab Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock ExchangeThe company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors.● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement https://preview.redd.it/zy1bgrcz6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=42bf092e3a0b6a6ec7d633ee1eab4ddb4ad88da7 The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium ProductionAs global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth.● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. https://preview.redd.it/v4a9mei17t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=aa789d0d817bb06a57bb3766535fb84aea6cacd2 The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy TransitionNuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. https://preview.redd.it/eazgwph37t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=fecd5255abbc6ac63a247c0d351951fbcc7fb41d Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market ImpactGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand.● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future. |
2024.05.21 18:48 MightBeneficial3302 Generation Uranium's Strategic Growth in the Uranium Sector (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85)
 | submitted by MightBeneficial3302 to PennyCatalysts [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/0snmlwwp6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=640f0aa66519e9e9f7437d2afdc50c635abf58b0 Discover Generation Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85). Generation Uranium is strategically centered on the exploration and development of uranium, a pivotal element in the nuclear energy sector. Anticipated to undergo significant growth, this resource is poised to become increasingly crucial over the next decade due to the expansive surge in the nuclear power and clean energy industries. ● Valued at CAD $6.27 million with a stock price of $0.26; ● Upsizes its private placement and closed $1,000,000 in the first tranche; ● Uranium prices have quadrupled since 2020. https://preview.redd.it/wsmdduur6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=3be313f259b55ff20b399b63ff006de29029b7e4 Discover the Yath Project, Generation Uranium’s Flagship AssetGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) is strategically focused on the exploration and development of its wholly-owned Yath Project, situated in the prolific and under-explored Thelon Basin in Nunavut, Canada. Positioned along the trend from the significant 43 million lbs Lac 50 uranium deposit, currently advanced by Latitude Uranium and under acquisition by ATHA Energy Corp, the project emphasizes the potential of this stable mining jurisdiction.● Occupies a prime location in a significant uranium-rich basin, enhancing its exploration potential; ● Previous explorations have indicated high-grade uranium deposits, underscoring the area's richness; ● The site exhibits promising targets for near-term drilling, indicating potential for rapid development and value realization. The project is advantageously situated at the intersection of two sub-basins, the Yathkyed Basin and the Angikuni Basin. This unique location within the globally recognized unconformity basin of Thelon, Nunavut, mirrors the proven economic viability seen in other famous locations like Athabasca, Saskatchewan, and McArthur, Australia. ● The project area has recorded historical high-grade mineralization at the surface, with notable findings including 9.81%, 3.95%, and 2.14% U3O8 in surface boulders. ● Spanning 85km², the Yath Project shares boundaries with other advancing uranium projects, highlighting its strategic significance. ● Several strong gravity anomalies correlate with clay alterations along the unconformity, which have been validated by drilling and warrant further exploration. https://preview.redd.it/yt3uc4ut6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=a43001ff6f0bbfb9f6e71ace5cce09b1ae23926e Generation Uranium Increases Private Placement OfferingGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) has announced an expansion of its previously publicized non-brokered private placement. Initially set for 4,000,000 units, the offering has been increased to 5,000,000 units, aiming to raise a total of CAD$1,250,000. The first tranche closed successfully, issuing 4,000,000 units at $0.25 each, accumulating CAD$1,000,000. Each unit consists of one common share and a warrant, which allows the purchase of an additional share at $0.45 within 24 months. Notably, a prominent natural resource fund from New York and Toronto has participated among other subscribers.Key Highlights: ● Expanded from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 units ● Raised CAD $1,000,000 in the first tranche ● Significant participation from major New York and Toronto fund ' Generation Uranium Launches on the Frankfurt Stock ExchangeThe company recently announced its listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "W85". This milestone was achieved on April 26th, marking a pivotal moment in Generation's drive to penetrate European investment circles. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, renowned for processing approximately 90% of all securities transactions in Germany, plays a crucial role in elevating the Company's profile and extending its reach to an expansive network of international investors.● Newly listed as "W85" on the FSE ● Trading commenced on April 26th ● Strategically enhancing global investor engagement https://preview.redd.it/7yt8y3ny6t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=715a2cbd5803872bbb9e0839893ac800543c8fb1 The Strategic Imperative for North American Uranium ProductionAs global energy demands shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources, the importance of bolstering North American uranium production is increasingly evident. Domestic production not only ensures energy security by reducing reliance on imports—which accounted for over 90% of U.S. uranium needs in recent years—but also supports the nuclear energy sector critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Enhancing local production capabilities can mitigate the risks associated with geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, especially as the global market tightens with the nuclear sector's expected growth.● Reduces reliance on imports, which recently covered over 90% of U.S. uranium needs. ● Aids the maintenance and growth of nuclear infrastructure essential for clean energy targets. https://preview.redd.it/yigi3np07t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=c114b223465680144c991e2af2199a199fcf0b00 The Pivotal Role of Nuclear Energy in Global Energy TransitionNuclear energy stands as a cornerstone in the global shift towards sustainable and low-carbon energy sources. Offering a reliable and substantial power output, nuclear plants are integral to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nuclear power avoids about 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissionseach year by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation. As countries worldwide aim to meet stringent climate targets, nuclear energy provides a stable and scalable solution that complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.● Nuclear power prevents approximately 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. ● Provides a continuous, large-scale power supply, crucial for supporting the grid stability alongside renewable sources. ● Essential for achieving ambitious global carbon neutrality goals, offering significant capacity without the geographical limitations of some renewables. https://preview.redd.it/wwd8dzt27t1d1.png?width=977&format=png&auto=webp&s=570a5adb8b70df1f392ddccce0de2319d5bdef21 Generation Uranium’s Strategic Expansion and Market ImpactGeneration Uranium (TSXV:GEN, FSE:W85) stands as a dynamic leader in the uranium sector, capitalizing on significant opportunities within the global shift towards sustainable energy. The company's extensive efforts in exploring and developing the Yath Project in Canada's Thelon Basin illustrate its commitment to enhancing North American uranium production. With the increasing global reliance on nuclear energy as a clean and stable power source, Generation Uranium’s strategic moves—including its recent listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the expansion of its private placement—align perfectly with the anticipated growth in uranium demand.● Robust Market Positioning: By increasing its private placement and listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Generation Uranium is poised for substantial growth, aiming to enhance global visibility and investor engagement. ● Strategic Asset Development: The exploration of the high-potential Yath Project is set to bolster the company’s resource base, supporting the broader nuclear power sector’s expansion. ● Contribution to Clean Energy Goals: As the world increasingly turns to nuclear energy to meet CO2 reduction targets, Generation Uranium’s role becomes ever more critical in ensuring a stable, low-carbon energy future. |
2024.05.21 18:14 gizzlyxbear Blue Steel (1990) and the “phallic woman”
Let me preface this by saying that I’ve never watched a Kathryn Bigelow movie before this. That said, I’ve seen enough of the discourse about this movie online to know that it’s considered a black mark in her career. I can say with assurance, as a Bigelow newcomer, that this movie rips. At some point before making super nationalist movies, it looks like Bigelow was creating feminist, Marxist films, I guess?
Blue Steel is hiding a lot of commentary on working class and gender struggles underneath all its late ‘80s/early ‘90s New York grit and grime. I’d go so far as to argue that the movie is a little too on the nose at times in its imagery and storytelling. Nonetheless, it’s a surprisingly biting piece of film.
The idea of a gun as a phallic symbol in cinema is nothing new. The earliest example I can think of is 1950’s Gun Crazy, in which a pair of ill-fated lovers consummate their on-screen love through brute firepower. As a phallic symbol, guns draw upon ideas of violence, power, and patriarchy in their imagery. In making Jamie Lee Curtis’ Megan Turner a powerful woman with a gun, she becomes a “phallic woman”, possessing male power in a patriarchal society. This is made even clearer when, early in the film, she becomes a detective; quite literally a “female dick”. This fetishization of firearms is furthered with the opening close-up shots of Megan’s pistol. The way the camera tracks along the hard edges and grooves of the gun as if it were a close-up of a woman’s body in any other film is telling. Paired with Megan donning her policeman’s uniform, it becomes a sort of male drag. There’s a sense of anxiety that comes with the “phallic woman” trope. This is usually mitigated by the camera: showing these women as either villains—attacking and rejecting them—or making them sex symbols. To get around from this mitigation, the film shows a scene early on in which Megan reveals she’s a cop to a potential suitor. As he finds out that she is a woman in power and, more importantly, is carrying a gun, he quickly becomes disinterested—disgusted even.
Alternatively, in Ron Silver’s character, Eugene, the gun becomes symbolic of lost power; lost masculinity. From a Marxist perspective, Eugene has lost his essence by working within wealth and finance. He is corrupt in comparison to the “common working man”. When he first acquires a gun, he sees it as a form of liberation for himself. Eugene is aware of his financial power; as much is shown during his first interactions with Megan. Through the lens of the phallic gun, though, the film shows his yearning for physical power, something otherwise unreachable for him. This comes to a head during one scene where he’s shown scrambling, looking desperately for his misplaced weapon—true panic on his otherwise composed face.
On another level, the film works by taking the narrative structures of both the slasher and rape-revenge horror subgenres and placing them within a crime-thriller context. Eugene becomes a sort of boogeyman, not unlike Michael Myers; killing victims one by one. Also like Myers, Eugene just keeps coming back, a near-unstoppable force. In this way, the casting of Jamie Lee Curtis is brilliant. Some subversion and further gender commentary also takes place here, by having Megan present as a much more androgynous “final girl” type of character. There’s a brief example of that androgyny in a scene where Megan walks home from her police academy graduation and is nearly mistaken as a male officer by two women.
Moving on from the thematics and the characters, the cinematography of Blue Steel borders on pornographic—a comment I’ve also made towards Infinity Pool, a body horror piece. The photography is slick and well-lit (save for one arguably underlit scene in the police precinct), bordering on Michael Mann lighting at times. There’s a lot of very up-close shots as well, but even when it isn’t getting up close and personal, the way most of the movie is framed is very intimate.
Where the movie loses me somewhat is on the strength of its writing—or lack thereof. While I think it’s very well-acted from everyone involved, I think they could only do the best they could with the material given. It’s not overly cliched, but it just comes off as weak and not punchy enough.
The Vestron Video blu-ray transfer is gorgeous. As with their Earth Girls Are Easy transfer, the colors absolutely pop off the screen. There’s also some very healthy, very welcome film grain present throughout, adding to the griminess of the experience.
For genre film fans, this is a very easy recommendation. Anyone looking for highbrow, though, can look elsewhere.
review on letterboxd
submitted by gizzlyxbear to TrueFilm [link] [comments]
Blue Steel is hiding a lot of commentary on working class and gender struggles underneath all its late ‘80s/early ‘90s New York grit and grime. I’d go so far as to argue that the movie is a little too on the nose at times in its imagery and storytelling. Nonetheless, it’s a surprisingly biting piece of film.
The idea of a gun as a phallic symbol in cinema is nothing new. The earliest example I can think of is 1950’s Gun Crazy, in which a pair of ill-fated lovers consummate their on-screen love through brute firepower. As a phallic symbol, guns draw upon ideas of violence, power, and patriarchy in their imagery. In making Jamie Lee Curtis’ Megan Turner a powerful woman with a gun, she becomes a “phallic woman”, possessing male power in a patriarchal society. This is made even clearer when, early in the film, she becomes a detective; quite literally a “female dick”. This fetishization of firearms is furthered with the opening close-up shots of Megan’s pistol. The way the camera tracks along the hard edges and grooves of the gun as if it were a close-up of a woman’s body in any other film is telling. Paired with Megan donning her policeman’s uniform, it becomes a sort of male drag. There’s a sense of anxiety that comes with the “phallic woman” trope. This is usually mitigated by the camera: showing these women as either villains—attacking and rejecting them—or making them sex symbols. To get around from this mitigation, the film shows a scene early on in which Megan reveals she’s a cop to a potential suitor. As he finds out that she is a woman in power and, more importantly, is carrying a gun, he quickly becomes disinterested—disgusted even.
Alternatively, in Ron Silver’s character, Eugene, the gun becomes symbolic of lost power; lost masculinity. From a Marxist perspective, Eugene has lost his essence by working within wealth and finance. He is corrupt in comparison to the “common working man”. When he first acquires a gun, he sees it as a form of liberation for himself. Eugene is aware of his financial power; as much is shown during his first interactions with Megan. Through the lens of the phallic gun, though, the film shows his yearning for physical power, something otherwise unreachable for him. This comes to a head during one scene where he’s shown scrambling, looking desperately for his misplaced weapon—true panic on his otherwise composed face.
On another level, the film works by taking the narrative structures of both the slasher and rape-revenge horror subgenres and placing them within a crime-thriller context. Eugene becomes a sort of boogeyman, not unlike Michael Myers; killing victims one by one. Also like Myers, Eugene just keeps coming back, a near-unstoppable force. In this way, the casting of Jamie Lee Curtis is brilliant. Some subversion and further gender commentary also takes place here, by having Megan present as a much more androgynous “final girl” type of character. There’s a brief example of that androgyny in a scene where Megan walks home from her police academy graduation and is nearly mistaken as a male officer by two women.
Moving on from the thematics and the characters, the cinematography of Blue Steel borders on pornographic—a comment I’ve also made towards Infinity Pool, a body horror piece. The photography is slick and well-lit (save for one arguably underlit scene in the police precinct), bordering on Michael Mann lighting at times. There’s a lot of very up-close shots as well, but even when it isn’t getting up close and personal, the way most of the movie is framed is very intimate.
Where the movie loses me somewhat is on the strength of its writing—or lack thereof. While I think it’s very well-acted from everyone involved, I think they could only do the best they could with the material given. It’s not overly cliched, but it just comes off as weak and not punchy enough.
The Vestron Video blu-ray transfer is gorgeous. As with their Earth Girls Are Easy transfer, the colors absolutely pop off the screen. There’s also some very healthy, very welcome film grain present throughout, adding to the griminess of the experience.
For genre film fans, this is a very easy recommendation. Anyone looking for highbrow, though, can look elsewhere.
review on letterboxd
2024.05.21 17:38 Burkedge Need Advice/Encouragement/Words of Wisdom
37M - 6'2 (heed this warning: its definitely harder to lose weight as you age) - Been on a caloric deficit, mixing concepts of keto, intermittent fasting, and straight up wateblack coffee fasting, since January 1st. From Sunday night to Tuesday morning, every week this year I've done a 36-hour wateblack coffee fast.
Down from 193.4 to 159.2 (I've always identified as a skinny guy) with a goal of 157.0 (my wedding weight). The past few weeks, with my goal in sight I've been extending my fast from Sunday night to Wednesday mornings for a 60-hour fast.
I'm at the 36-hour mark... within spitting distance of my goal and the wheels are coming off; mentally I feel like I'm shitting my pants at mile marker 25 while running a marathon.
I know what I'm doing isn't healthy... but I've come this far. If I weigh in between 157 and 158 tomorrow should I fast until Thursday in hopes of symbolically crossing the finish line?
I'm not going back to my old eating habits - I just don't want to do this anymore. Being so incredibly restrictive.
I'm steadfast in achieving victory; should I willpower my way through the next couple days for possible symbolic victory or probably continue my journey for the next few weeks to where my weight will seesaw until settling in the 157 range?
submitted by Burkedge to WeightLossAdvice [link] [comments]
Down from 193.4 to 159.2 (I've always identified as a skinny guy) with a goal of 157.0 (my wedding weight). The past few weeks, with my goal in sight I've been extending my fast from Sunday night to Wednesday mornings for a 60-hour fast.
I'm at the 36-hour mark... within spitting distance of my goal and the wheels are coming off; mentally I feel like I'm shitting my pants at mile marker 25 while running a marathon.
I know what I'm doing isn't healthy... but I've come this far. If I weigh in between 157 and 158 tomorrow should I fast until Thursday in hopes of symbolically crossing the finish line?
I'm not going back to my old eating habits - I just don't want to do this anymore. Being so incredibly restrictive.
I'm steadfast in achieving victory; should I willpower my way through the next couple days for possible symbolic victory or probably continue my journey for the next few weeks to where my weight will seesaw until settling in the 157 range?
2024.05.21 17:22 Fun-Yogurtcloset521 The Locust Man
PART 1:
I had slept over at Lacey’s house the night before. We had just woken up and were still sitting on her bed discussing our possible plans for the day, when Michelle busted through the door with a look on her face that immediately told us she had finally gotten a hold of some juicy information, before she could even open her mouth to stutter out, “You-you-you guyssss, guess w-w-what!?!” Lacey gestured the nail file that was in her hand toward her, raising her eyebrows bluntly as Michelle tried to catch her breath. “So… Devin came to sleep over last night, annnnnd I was pretending to go to the bathroom so I could spy on them. Seeeeee, I was supposed to be sleeping but I -“ “Ughh come on Michelle, get to it! What’d you hear?” Lacey snapped “Ughh okay okay. So, I heard the boys talking, anddddd…. they’re planning to go explore the old mine today!!” “Alright Michelle! Good spying!” I chuckled, trying to encourage her after Lacey’s impatience. Lacey rolls her eyes, then immediately stands up. She takes the scrunchie off her wrist, ties her long blonde hair into a messy bun, and simply said, “Let’s go.” “Lacey..” I said “What??” She responds as if she hadn’t registered the tone of my voice at all. As I opened my mouth to begin explaining all the logical and practical reasons why even if the boys were stupid enough to go play around somewhere dangerous, we shouldn’t be, Michelle exclaims, “That’s where the Locust Man lives!!” I close my mouth in defeat, as I know Lacey will take this nonsense as a challenge, and because of that, no amount of my warnings concerning actual dangers would have any effect on her decision. Lacey dismisses her comment as she attempts to shove her foot into one of her new pink sneakers that she refuses to admit are too small for her. “Pshhh, don’t be such a baby Michelle, he’s not real, you do know that right?” Michelle crinkled her face and yelled back, “Yes he is Lacey! He is!! And th-th- that’s where he lives, and he eats kids that go there!” Lacey laughs at her and says “Oh yeah? You still believe in Santa clause too? What about the tooth fairy?” Michelle looked down at her shoes, and although she could admittedly be annoying, I found myself feeling bad for her. “Come on Lacey, she’s just scared.” Lacey shot me a look like she was expecting me to burst into laughter, but I just gave her a smirk and a shrug, and she rolled her eyes and said “Get dressed.”
submitted by Fun-Yogurtcloset521 to creepcast [link] [comments]
Every town has their own version of “The Boogeyman”. A monster, cryptid, phantom, whatever you want to call it, it’s all essentially the same thing- just a scary story they tell kids in an attempt to get them to behave. An urban legend is just a life lesson disguised as a horror story after all. For us folk living up in the tiny and once prosperous gold-mining town of Trillium, ours was known simply as The Locust Man. Now, let me start by saying, I realize how ridiculous that name must sound to you. “The Locust Man”?? Pftt…What’s he do, besides get stuck in the grill of someone’s pick-up truck. Destroy some crops? Oooh, he sounds real scary... yeah, I know. But yet, as I sit here today 20 years after the fact - a grown woman who’s wiser, stronger, and even more grounded in reality than she was at 12, I still hesitate to even write down that name.As a young child I had always thought it to be a little weird that our town was called Trillium, considering I had never seen a single one growing there. If you don’t know, a trillium is a small flower, usually white but they come in other color varieties as well, with three pedals and a bright yellow center. They sort of look like if you took a lily and tore off every other pedal playing “He loves me, he loves me not”. In school, about 2nd grade or so, we were taught everything about this elusive flower I’d never seen in real life, and told how proud our town was to be named after it. Trillium, Colorado was established in 1922 - A new town born in the wake of a great tragedy which befell the town that had previously sat in the same location. For us, and those that came before us, the trillium was supposed to be a symbol of hope. Knowing all that I know now, that sentiment almost makes me want to laugh - in a morbid way.
Growing up in a small, mostly isolated town, there really wasn’t much for a kid to do. You’d have to drive 45 minutes to get to the closest mall and movie theater. The high school kids would usually all hang out at the roller rink downtown or at the old run-down burger joint called Slim’s that sat across it. But at that age, I wasn’t allowed to go hang out there by myself yet and for me, going with my parents tagging along wasn’t an option I was open to. My neighborhood was on a long dead end road leading up to a large patch of woods that separated the main part of town from the abandoned mine. The old trail the miners used was still accessible up until a point, and so me and the other kids from my street would hang out in those woods all the time. We had a “secret spot” which was, what we thought at the time, about half way through the woods, 10 steps away from a small shallow creek that pretty much ran the length of the area. Rain Creek, we called it. There was a small clearing there, and we had created our own little clubhouse using old milk crates as supports, half- broken wooden pallets as walls, along with some old lawn chairs one of the neighbors was throwing out one day. I made my contribution by bringing a tarp we had in our basement that served as the roof of our establishment. Our parents didn’t love the idea of five 10 to 12 year olds running around in the woods by ourselves, but as long as we stayed within earshot and made it back before the streetlights came on, they probably figured it was safer than us being across town galavanting unsupervised.It was me, Lacey, Devin, Mikey and Michelle. We were all best friends - pretty much inseparable, except the boys weren’t invited to the girls’ sleepovers and vise versa. Everyday after school, we’d get dropped off by the bus at the very beginning of our road, and it was a running joke between the Rain Street Gang (as we liked to call ourselves) for all of us to try and run off the bus as quickly as possible, while me, Lacey and Devin would all yell in unison ‘Last two home are some rotten eggs!!’, as Mikey and Michelle tried to push past us to get a head start. The aforementioned two were siblings, and lived in the very last house on our row right next to the woods, so they’d always get home last, regardless of their efforts. Although, the year that Mikey got a pair of Heelys for Christmas he finally got his edge over the rest of us, leaving Michelle to be the lone “rotten egg” until the next summer when one of his wheels broke off. The whole point of it all was just to get home and get our chores and homework done as fast as possible, so we could meet up at Mikey and Michelle’s house with enough daylight left to make our trek into the woods and back - together as a group. All five of us had made a pact to never visit the clubhouse without all members present, although us girls always had a sneaking suspicion that the boys thought themselves exempt from that rule. They, after all, were the ones that had discovered the spot in the first place, and not to mention, did most of the physical labor of dragging our provisions out there. Me and Lacey initially only heard about the spot a day after the boys found it; Michelle had walked into Mikey’s room in the middle of him and Devin talking about it, and immediately relayed the message to us. Michelle wasn’t necessarily more loyal to the girls than the boys, she was just the youngest among us and honestly couldn’t resist blurting out any mildly relevant information she thought she might have, in an effort to be included. But in that regard, if the boys had ever gone out there on their own, they would’ve had to be extremely sneaky about it, because Michelle’s number one objective in life was to gather any piece of intel she could. It was a seemingly normal Saturday morning when we learned our suspicions about the boys may have been warranted.
I had slept over at Lacey’s house the night before. We had just woken up and were still sitting on her bed discussing our possible plans for the day, when Michelle busted through the door with a look on her face that immediately told us she had finally gotten a hold of some juicy information, before she could even open her mouth to stutter out, “You-you-you guyssss, guess w-w-what!?!” Lacey gestured the nail file that was in her hand toward her, raising her eyebrows bluntly as Michelle tried to catch her breath. “So… Devin came to sleep over last night, annnnnd I was pretending to go to the bathroom so I could spy on them. Seeeeee, I was supposed to be sleeping but I -“ “Ughh come on Michelle, get to it! What’d you hear?” Lacey snapped “Ughh okay okay. So, I heard the boys talking, anddddd…. they’re planning to go explore the old mine today!!” “Alright Michelle! Good spying!” I chuckled, trying to encourage her after Lacey’s impatience. Lacey rolls her eyes, then immediately stands up. She takes the scrunchie off her wrist, ties her long blonde hair into a messy bun, and simply said, “Let’s go.” “Lacey..” I said “What??” She responds as if she hadn’t registered the tone of my voice at all. As I opened my mouth to begin explaining all the logical and practical reasons why even if the boys were stupid enough to go play around somewhere dangerous, we shouldn’t be, Michelle exclaims, “That’s where the Locust Man lives!!” I close my mouth in defeat, as I know Lacey will take this nonsense as a challenge, and because of that, no amount of my warnings concerning actual dangers would have any effect on her decision. Lacey dismisses her comment as she attempts to shove her foot into one of her new pink sneakers that she refuses to admit are too small for her. “Pshhh, don’t be such a baby Michelle, he’s not real, you do know that right?” Michelle crinkled her face and yelled back, “Yes he is Lacey! He is!! And th-th- that’s where he lives, and he eats kids that go there!” Lacey laughs at her and says “Oh yeah? You still believe in Santa clause too? What about the tooth fairy?” Michelle looked down at her shoes, and although she could admittedly be annoying, I found myself feeling bad for her. “Come on Lacey, she’s just scared.” Lacey shot me a look like she was expecting me to burst into laughter, but I just gave her a smirk and a shrug, and she rolled her eyes and said “Get dressed.”
We walked in silence toward the end of the road, though the reasons for all three differed drastically. Lacey’s was determination and resolve, mine was comtemptousness and defeat, and Michelle’s was just fear. I found myself half-way hoping the boys had left already, but as we approached the driveway we caught them just as they were about to step off the porch.“Hey!!” Lacey yelled, in her trademark cheerleader cadence. “Where do you boys think you’re going without us?”. Mikey let a groan and rolled his eyes, while Devin said through a coy smile, “Well, we were actually just heading out to go to find you girls.” “Liar.” Lacey snapped, quickly wiping the grin off Devin’s face. “Michelle already blabbed- we know where you two are going and we’re coming too.” The boys looked at each other, then Mikey shot Michelle an angry look as she tried to shrink herself behind me, and said, “Fine, whatever, but no cry baby snitches allowed!!” Michelle then proceeded to prove both of his accusations correct by yelling back, “I am not a cry baby!! I’m telling mom if you don’t let me come with you!!” At that point I finally spoke up. “Alright, listen.” I said sternly, then once I had their attention I lowered my voice a bit to say, “Just for the record, I think us going to that grody old mine is a dumb idea and a big waste of time, but if one of us goes, we all go. That’s the deal, so make your decisions.” Lacey folded her arms in solidarity beside me, and with that we all had an unspoken understanding. So, with the boys out ahead leading the way, we headed toward the tree line.
As we entered the woods, I felt a sense of dread wash over me - but to be fair, as a preteen emo kid who had already reached an adult level of cynicism, I felt a certain level of dread towards almost everything in life. So take my premonition with a grain of salt, but for some reason, this felt… different. I remember the woods being abnormally quiet that day. It took some time for me to even notice, but as soon as I did, I interrupted the mindless chatter going on to say,“Where are all the freakin’ birds?” Everyone turned to look at me as if I’d completely lost my mind. “Uhhh… What are you talking about?” Devin asked me. I pointed up toward the treetops. “Listen…. ” They all looked up, then looked around at each other in confusion. “Every time we’ve ever been in these woods, there’s always birds chirping back and forth. We’ve been walking almost 5 minutes now and I haven’t heard a single bird, have you guys?” “Damn, yeah, that is weird.” Mikey agreed. “They probably all just migrated!!” Devin goofily offered. “That’s stupid Devin, it’s spring. If anything, there should be more birds here, not less you moron.” Lacie argued. Devin flipped Lacie off, which was the best rebuttal he could usually come up with, and then turned toward me and said, “Okay whatever, what’s your point exactly?” “Just that - “ I looked over to Mikey, then back at Devin. “It’s weird.” I didn’t want to say what I was actually thinking. That the woods being too quiet was never a good thing. That when birds aren’t chirping, it could mean there’s a predator nearby. Besides, I was pretty confident that the boys, having both been in the scouts, knew what I knew, so saying it out loud would only serve to annoy Lacie and further frighten Michelle. Mikey broke his gaze that had been fixed on me, and while scanning our surroundings he said, “Let’s stop by the clubhouse on the way.” With a nod from me, we continued. When we arrived at our pit stop, Lacey hobbled over to the closest lawn chair and plopped herself down in it. “Ughhh, my feet are killing me!!” “I wonder why.” I mutter under my breath. “Excuse me, what was that?” “Just saying. Those shoes are gonna be the death of you Lace, you can barely walk in them.” “Pshhh, shut up. They just need to be broken-in okay? You’re just jealous cuz you’re still wearing your dirty old Vans from last year.” “Oooh yeah, you got me there. I am so sad I don’t have a pair of ugly pink Sketchers that don’t fit me.” She stuck her tongue out at me and we both laughed. I was just about the only person who could go toe to toe with Lacey’s sass. It’s part of the reason we ended up being best friends, besides being neighbors. In regard to style, personality and interests, we were almost polar opposites. But when it came to humor we were equals. And more importantly, we both had a mutual understanding when it came to our differences- I was me and she was her, and neither of us felt the need to try and make the other one be more like us. Besides, I was the only person who had ever really stood up to Lacey and didn’t take any of her crap, so I think she respected that. While that exchange had been going on, Michelle had started picking tiny pink flowers, and the boys were rummaging in the clubhouse for something. I yelled in their direction, “Hey! Big Mike and Dirty D!!” Me and Lacey giggled and she mouthed the word “big” with air quotation marks. They didn’t respond, so I walked over to the entryway and looked in. They were standing with their backs to me while looking down at an open metal box, and Mikey was reaching to grab whatever was in it. As he stood back up, I could see what it was. “What the fuck Mikey, seriously?” Hearing me cuss, Lacey and Michelle crowded in behind me. “Chill, it’s just a BB gun.” “I know it’s a BB gun Michael, what are you doing with it, and why is it here?” I was livid at the thought that he might be coming out here and shooting at animals just to be a shithead. I expected something like that from a goober like Devin, but not Mikey. Michelle butted in, “I’m telling mom!!!” “Nice try, dad knows I have it.” He looked at me and softened his tone. “It’s for protection, just in case we come across a black bear, or some weirdo creep out here. Seriously… it’s just to scare off something, not hurt it.” He knew how I felt about killing animals, especially for no good reason. A lot of people out here are poor and hunt for food, which I could accept as a reality. But hurting animals just for fun is psycho behavior, so I was relieved to hear him dispel my fear; I really didn’t want to have to hate him. “Do you even know how to shoot that thing?” Lacey asked. “Yeah, my dad showed me.” Devin clapped his hands together, making us all jump and himself laugh. “Well alright then, let’s get going!” I turned to Michelle, still holding the flowers. “You okay?” She nodded. “If you want me to walk back with you, I can.” I was slightly hoping she’d say yes so I’d have an excuse to get out of this excursion, but she just shook her head and forced a smile. I knew she was scared, but she was just too curious. Maybe I was too.
We walked for what felt like half an hour. The trees had gotten more dense and the path narrowed from the overgrowth. Still no birdsong. I kept scanning the area in search of any sign of life other than us. Looking for movement of creatures scurrying away, listening for the sound of rustling as we passed, hoping for a squirrel, a lizard, even a bug. Nothing.“How much further is this damn thing?” Lacey groaned. Mikey answered without even turning around. “We should be coming up on it any time now.” “You said that like 10 minutes ago.” “Yeah, and now we’re like 10 minutes closer to it. And hey guess what, you insisted on inviting yourself - so suck it up buttercup.” “Hahahaha!” Devin laughed like a maniac at Mikey’s quip, while Lacey folded her arms and for once in her life didn’t have a snappy comeback. This time however, I did. “Well we really only came along to make sure you idiots didn’t kill yourselves.” “Oh, so you girls came out here with us to be our protectors, huh?” Devin laughed. “Ehh, more like babysitters.” Needless to say, I was flipped off for that statement. We rounded the next bend and suddenly all came to an abrupt stop one after another, starting with Mikey. Devin positioned himself beside him and let out a disappointed groan. “Shit Mikey!” A huge tree had fallen and was blocking the trail completely. There was no way we could climb over it because of all the leaves and branches - we’d have to go around it, which meant leaving the safety of the trail and crossing Rain Creek twice to get back to it. “Seriously???” Lacey exclaimed. “Maybe it’s a sign that we shouldn’t be going.” I shrugged. Mikey didn’t seem fazed by the obstruction at all. In fact, he seemed more confident. More calm. More sure of his intended mission. “It’s fine, we’ll just go around.” Michelle, who had been mostly quiet this whole time, finally broke her fear induced silence. “We are NOT supposed to leave the tr-tr-trail Michael! We could get lost!” “We aren’t gonna get lost Michelle, I have a compass. Plus, it’s literally just a few paces that way, then we cross the creek and circle back once we pass the tree and we’re right back on the trail.” “Oh you have got to be kidding me” Lacey said, “I’m not treading through that nasty water!” “Yeah Mikey, what about Lacey’s brand new shoes??” I laughed, and she playfully slapped me in the arm. Mikey’s patience was wearing thin with us. “Look, we already walked this far - if we turn back now, we’ve wasted the whole day for nothing. If you girls wanna be lame and turn around, then go for it - but me and Dev are going.” That’s all Lacey needed. A challenge to accept; someone to prove wrong. “I’ll show you lame.” She pushed past the boys and lead the way into the thick brush towards Rain Creek. It wasn’t very wide across, and there were lots of fallen limbs and large rocks spread throughout it. The current was barely that of a trickle, and the depth was no more than knee deep for us. It was definitely doable - just an inconvenience. And of course, one more ominous obstacle lying directly in our path. Another hint from the universe telling us to turn around. We didn’t listen. Lacey placed one foot on the closest limb and pushed down a few times to test its sturdiness. “I got this.” She stepped out onto it with both feet, then shimmied sideways until she was close enough to the large exposed rock in the middle of the creek, and hopped onto it. She turned around with a full grin and said, “Coming?” Mikey made his way across the limb as Lacey hopped onto a different limb which led her to the other side of the creek. Devin followed, then me, and then it was Michelle’s turn. “I’m scared to fall in!” Of course she is, I should have made her go before me. “It’s okay Michelle, it’s easy!” I reassured her. She didn’t look convinced in the slightest. “Come on Chelle, we’re leaving you!” Mikey yelled, already walking away. “Nooo!! I’m coming! Wait!” She made it across, but instead of just walking like everyone else did, she got down on her hands and knees and gripped the limb as if it were the only thing in between her and a 50 foot drop to the ground, which was funny to see but prolonged the whole process further. After all, we were about to have to do all of this again. Next go round went a lot smoother. The creek was more shallow here, and there were a whole lot more stepping rocks and debris built up. Having just crossed successfully a few minutes ago, we were all more confident in our abilities, including Michelle - who this time we made go first. “Just walk across like it’s a bridge! You got this!!”, we all cheered for her, and then clapped when she made it to the other side. Before we knew it we were back on the trail, and it wasn’t long after that we finally arrived at our intended destination.
We all stopped and stared at it for a minute, carefully examining the dilapidated exterior of the place that had brought both prosperity and destruction upon our town. Mikey bent down, picked up a rock and threw it into the entrance. We heard it bounce a few times before it stopped.“Just to make sure nothing’s in there.” he turned around to clarify. “Did anyone think to bring a flashlight?” I asked. “It’s dark as hell in there.” I was hoping for just one more reason not to go. Devin reached into his cargo shorts pocket and pulled out a small keychain-sized flashlight, smiling with the satisfaction of finally being useful. “Okay, Mikey’ll hold the gun, I’ll shine the light and you girls follow behind us. Let’s go.” Mikey shifted the BB gun from its position of resting on his shoulder, to holding the barrel in his left hand and the butt in his right; trying his best to emulate a soldier’s stance. Something his dad had taught him I’m sure. We ducked down a bit to enter. “How far in we going?” Lacey asked. “Until we see something cool.” Mikey answered. I turned around to check on Michelle, still hovering in the doorway. “You coming?” I could see in her eyes that fear had finally gotten the better of her, and curiosity had taken a backseat. With wide eyes she shook her head. “The-the Locust Man lives in there.”, she tried to whisper. “I knew you were gonna be a baby about this!” Mikey yelled. I crouched down and put my hand on her shoulder. Against my better judgment, I say “How bout you just wait here for us and pick some more flowers. We won’t be long, there’s nothing in there, I promise. Just.. don’t move from this spot and we’ll be right back, okay?” I could feel her unease, but she seemed to accept my reassurance nonetheless. “Okay.” I smiled, then stood up and looked down at my watch to check the time. 12:46 PM. I turned and headed into the darkness, trying to catch up with everyone else. I didn’t feel good about leaving Michelle, but I didn’t feel good about letting the rest of them go in there alone either. And if I’m being honest, maybe a little part of me wanted to see what was in there too. When I caught up to Lacey she asked, “Where’s Michelle?” “Stayed behind at the entrance, she was too scared. I told her to pick flowers and wait there for us.” “Pshh, figures.” “Yeah. How’s your feet?” “At this point, numb actually.” It was so dark in there that even Devin’s rinky dink flashlight was illuminating the area enough for me to start taking a closer look at my surroundings. I looked around at the rock walls, they were covered in what looked like orange mold and green algae. There was a slight breeze coming in from the entrance, but the whole place just had a staleness to it. The boys stopped and turned around as we arrived at the first curve. “So ladies, what do you think? Cool huh?” Devin asked excitedly. “Smells like a fart in here.” I said.
The most dangerous thing about exploring an old mine wasn’t getting lost in the maze of tunnels, or tripping on the rusted tracks and slamming your head against the wall - it was something simply referred to as bad air. Pockets of still air that have dangerously low levels of oxygen, the old men in town would call it “black damp”. There was also something produced from the old chemicals they once used called “stink damp”, which smelled like rotten eggs. Both were lethal.“I wonder if there’s dead bodies in here!” “Uh, Dev… we’re gonna be the dead bodies in here if we go in too far. I wasn’t just making a joke, you know that rotten egg smell can mean bad air.” Mikey interjected. “The entrance isn’t far behind us, there’s still enough fresh air coming in. We won’t go in too far, let’s just get to the end of this tunnel where it splits off and look around a bit, then we’ll turn around.” The fork in the tunnel really wasn’t that much further, and even though I knew once we rounded this curve I wouldn’t be able to see the entrance behind me anymore, I decided what the hell. Maybe a hundred more steps, then we can finally turn around and this whole dumb situation would be closer to being over with. When we got there, we looked down the length of the connecting tunnels each way. Everything looked unusually identical in its deterioration. I could see how someone could easily get disoriented and lost down here. “Hellooooo…” Mikey yelled to the left, his voice echoing through the corridor. Devin turned to the opposite direction and called out, “Hey yo, Locust Man!! You in here?” We all giggled, which made me think about Michelle, still waiting at the entrance for us, alone in the woods. I looked down at my watch. 12:46 PM. “Hey what the f-“ My cuss word was interrupted by a loud bang that came from the passageway Devin had just been hollering into. We all froze. I didn’t have time to process that my watch had stopped right as we entered the tunnel, or that Michelle had been left alone for who knows how long now, or that we had just heard what sounded like a support beam crashing to the ground, because next came a horrifying screeching buzzing sound. It sounded distant at first, but was quickly increasing in volume. We silently looked around at each other and backed away stunned at what we were hearing. Mikey never took his eyes off the tunnel though, and slowly he began to raise the BB gun to firing position. Without even thinking, I grabbed the barrel and pushed it downward. He quickly tore his eyes away from his target to look at me. I shook my head and managed to barely choke out the word, “Explosion.” He nodded and I let go. I looked down at the gun in his hands, and seeing his finger had already been on the trigger, I realized how lucky it was that I didn’t make him shoot himself in the foot. All of a sudden, the noise stopped. “What the hell was that?” Lacey asked. “I don’t know, nothing good.” I said. “Let’s just get the fuck out of here before this whole place caves in on us or something.” Another loud bang erupted from the right, extremely close to us. “Shit!!!” We all turned around and ran as fast as we could back toward the entrance. Devin tried to push past me, but as he did my elbow knocked the flashlight out of his hand. “My flashlight!!!” “Leave it!” Mikey shouted “The turn is right here, we won’t need it!” We rounded the corner, and using what little light there was illuminating from the entrance to guide us back, we ran like our lives depended on it. And they may have- none of us dared to look back, not like we would have been able to see anything anyway. When we finally made it out, we were all completely out of breath. I felt like I was going to throw up. I have to admit though, once we had made it back to safety I felt a rush of adrenaline like I had just had a near death experience. That feeling quickly faded into sheer panic when I looked around and realized Michelle was nowhere to be seen. “Uh, where’s Michelle?” Mikey asked me. “I told her to stay right here, she can’t be very far… Michelle!!!!” We all called her name, as loud as we could. No answer, no sign of her anywhere. “Alright look, she probably went off a little further looking for flowers to pick.” I tried to rationalize. “Let’s just split off in 4 directions and walk in a straight line while calling for her. She’s bound to hear one of us.” Everyone agreed, and even though I appeared outwardly as the level-headed calm person you need to take control in an emergency, inside I was petrified that something had happened to her, and that it would be my fault. I took the east, and headed out. It didn’t take too long before I passed a large tree and saw her sitting down behind it, looking at something on the ground. “Michelle! Oh thank god!! Didn’t you hear us calling for you??” She didn’t answer me, or even turn around. “Michelle, didn’t I tell you to stay by the entrance and not move?!?” My relief was quickly turning into annoyance as she continued to ignore me. I walked up closer to see what she was looking at, and my mouth dropped in awe of what she had found. It was a single white trillium.
They say it takes 8 years for a trillium plant to produce a flower, and conditions have to be just right for it to bloom. That’s what makes them so special and rare. I stared down at it almost in a trance, like I was seeing a mythical creature. Michelle slowly reached out her hand towards it and I snapped out of it.“No!!” I grabbed her by the arm and she finally turned around to look at me. “If you pick the flower, the plant will die.” She ripped her arm away from my grasp and whined, “But I want to show my mom!” We heard Mikey calling from the north and I cupped my hands over my mouth to yell back, “I found her, she’s over here!!” I looked back at her. “No Michelle, come on, you can just tell her about it when we get back home.” I had enough, I was beyond ready to go and we still had at least another 45 minutes of walking to even get back to the clubhouse; an hour if Michelle kept up her crap. I grabbed her arm again and pulled her up to a standing position, looking back at the trillium as I walked her away. Mikey caught up to us, breathless but trying to hide his concern. “You little shit, we should have left you out here! What the hell were you doing?” I let go of her arm and she walked toward Mikey. “She was trying to pick a flower over there.” “It was a trillium!!” Michelle said, with the biggest smile on her face. “Wait, really?” He looked at me in disbelief. Before I could respond, a blood curdling scream echoed through the forest, coming from the west. It was Lacey. My heart dropped into my stomach and once again, every molecule in my body went into full blown panic mode. This time, I couldn’t contain my composure. “Laceyyyyyy!!!!!” A panicked shriek erupted from my lungs and I took off running. Mikey grabbed Michelle and sprinted after us. The trees became a blur; I didn’t even feel all the scratches and scrapes. Had she come across a coyote? A mountain lion? A bear? I didn’t even stop to think about the danger I might be about to come in contact with, I just ran. And then I found her. She was lying on the ground, holding her left foot. “Lacey!!” I said, trying to choke back the tears that were building up. “I think I twisted my ankle!!” “Oh god damn it, you bitch.” I struggled to catch my breath. “I thought you were dead.” “I might as well be, I have cheerleading practice on Monday!” Mikey and Michelle caught up to us. “What happened?” He asked “She’s being a drama queen, she just rolled her ankle.” I was angry. “Can you get up?” He asked her. She was able to stand, but as soon as she tried to put any pressure on her foot at all, she screamed in pain. We spotted Devin running over from the south as he was yelling out, “Hey yo, everyone alive and accounted for?” “Yeah, Lacey hurt her ankle.” Mikey yelled back. As he approached he looked concerned. “Can you walk on it?” He asked her. “No.” Without hesitation he replied, “Well alright then, looks like you’re gonna have to piggyback it all the way back home.” He lowered himself enough to where she could hop up onto his back, and we headed back toward the trail. Even though my nerves had begun to settle a bit, I knew we were still far from being out of the woods, in more ways than one.
2024.05.21 17:22 AloofandCranky SB19 End The PAGTATAG! Era With Power And Strength In Their Finale Concerts — Review
 | The concert began with a story, one that mirrors the very makings of the group. Narrating a tale of courage, strength, and resilience (the very essence of PAGTATAG!), the story — which featured appearances from the likes of Pepe Herrera — set the stage for the whirlwind journey SB19 were about to take you for the next two and a half hours.Photographed by Mayks Go ...the group performed enchanting renditions of “ILAW” and “Nyebe”, the latter of which saw confetti gracefully fall all over the stage mimicking snow. While SB19 are known for their energetic, ground shaking performances, there’s something about their ballad performances — notably this time around — that was particularly endearing. Maybe because it’s their last show of the tour or the journey they’ve been through to get there, but their sentimental songs took on new life on that stage.Photographed by Mayks Go The group brought back the energy with breathtaking runs of “I WANT YOU”, “MOONLIGHT” with Terry Zhong, “MANA”, and “Bazinga” — all of which were only amplified further with the support of SKOUTS dance crew. Each song was also notably backed by a tree, presumably symbolizing the group’s collective and individual growth through the years.Photographed by Mayks Go Photographed by Mayks Go Each member then took the stage with solo performances, highlighting their distinctive personalities and musicianship. Pablo zoomed in with a motorcycle, aptly signaling the start of his playful new single “edsa”. He was an absolute joy to watch, prompting everyone to dance and sing along.Photographed by Mayks Go Next up was Justin with a Disney prince-like performance of “surreal” (who was later joined by Gelou of YARA), which filled the vast venue with so much warmth. He had a way of making such a massive concert with thousands of other fans feel so intimate and personal.Photographed by Mayks Go There’s no denying the presence of Josh; from the moment his logo flashed on the screen, the Coliseum erupted with excited screams and shrills. While technical difficulties made it difficult to fully appreciate the singer-rapper’s vocals, he brought on a performance of “Yoko Na” and “Wild Tonight” worth remembering.Photographed by Mayks Go Following him was Ken, who gave a moving rendition of his track “Kanako”1. The rapper — who is also known as FELIP — sang with so much love in his eyes and heart as he dedicated the emotional track to A’TIN. He happily looked out to the crowd singing each of the track’s heartfelt lines to his fans, eventually tearing up towards the end.Photographed by Mayks Go Closing out the solo stages was Stell, who — alongside Maestro Louie Ocampo — performed “Anino”, a track originally composed by Pablo. To say that Stell’s performance was stunning would be an understatement, showcasing vocal excellence that left everyone in awe. As the only member without solo music out, his performance proved that it’ll definitely be worth the wait.Photographed by Mayks Go The group closed out the concert with back-to-back performances of “Freedom”, “Crimzone”, and “What?” that masterfully wrapped up this chapter of SB19.Photographed by Mayks Go While goodbyes are typically difficult, the end of the PAGTATAG! era felt more like a celebration. The last year tested the limits and strengths of SB19 and their fans — in more ways than one, and their finale concerts served as a cathartic victory. “SB19 parin tayo [We’re still SB19.],” said Josh during the concert, alluding to the internal struggles that the band faced last year.Photographed by Mayks Go While this comes as the end of the group’s most compelling era yet, there’s still definitely more on the way. As SB19 repeated during throughout their show, “Nagsimula na ang wakas pero hindi pa ito ang huli [This is the start of the end, but this is not the last of us.]”Photographed by Mayks Go |
2024.05.21 17:00 battlefield Battlefield Briefing – Future Strike
 | Future Strike* continues to outline the global battle for scarce resources in Battlefield™ 2042. With the Mandate of Nations, this new time-limited event introduces a new alliance tied to the world of 2142. Under the global assault of the Thousand Petals Coalition, this faction symbolizes a beacon of hope for the shattered EU forces as Joint Task Force 7 homages the initial seven nations who make up the fledgling union. Most recently, this strike team was tasked with the capture and securing of Arkangel weather stations, ensuring it would not fall into Coalition hands. submitted by battlefield to battlefield2042 [link] [comments] View our Trailer Here: https://youtu.be/0EPmqdm8l40 Future Strike is part of the ongoing Season 7: Turning Point, and will be available for free to all players from May 28, to June 10, 2024. https://preview.redd.it/8c99l7r0or1d1.jpg?width=3840&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=913afe4158ecd659e0f9d7e6888e684488f6fe6c Squad vs Squad, every soldier countsIn Future Strike you will experience close quarters, 4v4 or 8v8 action, that focuses on the intense squad play, where teamwork and individual skill are required to secure victory for your team.When a soldier is downed, they enter a “down but not out” state where they can still crawl and be revived. But, if they die in this downed state redeploy as an OV-P Recon Drone and spectate their squad, providing crucial information to their teammates to secure victory. Once the next round starts, all squad members are active again until they are downed or the round ends. Each round has a low time limit of 90 seconds. Each decision you and your squad make will impact your success. Every third round is a Shock Round where all players use the same locked loadout, selected from a list our developers have curated to put your adaptation skills to the test. Additionally, squads are restricted to only one Specialist in the squad and teams can see the opponent’s composition. This will allow you to strategically pick your characters to try and counter the opposition. The objective for each round of Strike Team is to capture the objective or completely eliminate the enemy team, which will win you a round. The first squad to win 6 rounds earns the victory! Strike Team is available on:
Your Tactics and Skills Determine the Outcome in Strike TeamRead the Room: To win, you'll need to analyze and anticipate the patterns of your enemies. With 6 rounds to win, you'll have plenty of time to learn your opponent as well as your teammates. If your squad’s tactic is to reach the objective quickly, set up a flank to blindside the enemy when they try to fight your teammates head-on. If your teammates are more aggressive flankers, fortify the objective with a well-placed Dozer or Irish pick. Every decision matters.https://preview.redd.it/m676mfvior1d1.jpg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9719a5de02bfadd05d9de8a374670ace09a540ad A new Objective: Watch the objective and watch the progress made, as both teams must perform a surgical strike to capture our tightest objective points to date. Capturing will also give away your position, so watch your back. https://preview.redd.it/blnlntcmor1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=cfde6832683098ca55be75da5e067e6ac456e326 Counterpick: Surprise the enemy with gadgets and character picks that counter their own. The element of surprise can work in your favor if your strategy stagnates, even with a single player's influence. Certain specialists can also exploit or be emboldened by the different levels available in Strike Team, find your strengths and play to them. https://preview.redd.it/1685qa6por1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=3184d553a849ca4dfdf8425434ad60348c23a210 Swarm them with Drones: The information economy is crucial to Strike Team. Redeploy as the OV-P Recon Drone on death and share vital information with your team. Empower your teammates with tactical pings and harass enemies with your drone to give your surviving teammates the upper hand. New Gear Arriving with Future StrikePlaying during the Future Strike event will net you new items that are also available for purchase. Earn ribbons by playing Strike Team and unlock rewards for your stash! Remember, items that are part of the event and can be earned via ribbons can also be purchased separately in our bundles.Earnable items (reduces bundle price when earned, marked with ^ in the purchasable bundles below): Strength in Unity - Rare Tag L5 Winzig - Epic Weapon Charm Talon Type-1 - Epic RAH-68 HuronSkin United Stand - Epic Rao Skin https://preview.redd.it/yhwdx7avor1d1.jpg?width=3840&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=57e660a3d032424856b06f421c72694aff3f458a https://preview.redd.it/oc3rziawor1d1.jpg?width=3840&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=22f63a1e738d24084213dfc6813f91e1647e951a https://preview.redd.it/10nyzt0xor1d1.jpg?width=3840&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4f552e1153ac61678e63718e292460614672323a Store bundles
You and your squad need to succeed, we’re counting on you! Don’t forget to check out the community calendar for upcoming events in Battlefield 2042! PTFO and make every decision count! // The Battlefield team *Requires Battlefield 2042 (sold separately) and all game updates to play. NO WEAPON, MILITARY VEHICLE OR GEAR MANUFACTURER IS AFFILIATED WITH OR HAS SPONSORED OR ENDORSED THIS GAME. This announcement may change as we listen to community feedback and continue developing and evolving our Live Service & Content. We will always strive to keep our community as informed as possible. |