At the world’s top college of magic and technology, every day brings a new discovery -and a new disaster. The advanced experiments of the college students tend to be both ambitious and apocalyptic, with the end of the world only prevented by a mysterious time loop, and a small handful of students who retain their memories.
Surviving the loops was hard enough, but now, in his senior year, Vell Harlan must take charge of them, and deal with the fact that the whole world now knows his secrets. Everyone knows about Vell’s death and resurrection, along with the divine game he is a part of. Now Vell must contend with overly curious scientists and evil billionaires hungry for divine power while the daily doomsday cycle bombards him with terrorists, talking elephants, and the Grim Reaper himself -but if he can endure it all, the Last Goddess’s game promises the ultimate prize: power over life itself.
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The last few notes of a Roxy Rocket song echoed through Vell’s dorm, and while scrappy and dissonant, they were at least coherent. An improvement from early lessons, especially.
“Well, that didn’t hurt to listen to,” Skye said. “You’re making progress.”
“You have such a way with words,” Vell said.
“Okay, fine,” Skye said. “You’re actually making good progress for a guy who only finds time to practice every couple weeks.”
The ever-encroaching responsibilities of being a senior, the leader of the loopers, and the focus of a godly game of fate had whittled Vell’s free time down to almost nothing. The occasional guitar lessons were some of his only islands amid the storm, and a welcome excuse to spend more time with Skye.
“You want to try a few more chords?”
“My hands are starting to hurt, actually,” Vell said. He pulled away from the guitar strings and shook tense fingers loose, revealing fingertips rubbed red and raw by practice. Skye stepped forward and took him by the wrist to examine his hands.
“I do not understand how a guy like you doesn’t have thicker skin,” Skye said. “Weren’t you an actual cowboy for a while? You did rodeos and everything.”
“I wore gloves,” Vell said.
“And for the rest of the weird shit you’ve done in your life?”
Vell took a long pause.
“Yeah, I don’t know,” Vell said. “Good genes, I guess.”
“I’m not complaining, mind you, I just think-”
A loud dinging sound from Skye’s purse interrupted the conversation, and she released her grip on Vell to go answer her phone. Vell recognized those familiar chimes as the Dad Ringtone. While most contacts were set to vibrate, Skye’s father and a few other lucky high-priority contacts got their own ringtones. Vell was lucky enough to have his ringtone set to the theme song of a cartoon Skye had loved as a kid, but played at a much lower volume than the Dad Ringtone. Skye’s father didn’t call often, and when he did it was usually about something important, so she wanted to be sure to never miss a call.
“Hey dad,” Skye began. “No, now’s fine. What’s up?”
Vell set his guitar back on the shelf and relaxed while Skye continued the call.
“No, no, that’d be fine, great, even,” Skye said. “He might be a little busy, but- What?”
Skye’s delight and talking to her father shifted to mild concern.
“Dad we kind of need to- no, not tomorrow, dad,” Skye said. “Dad!”
A long silence followed as Skye held the phone frozen by her ear for a short time. She tucked it back into her purse, took a deep breath, and clapped her hands together as she spun to face Vell.
“So, good news, you’re going to get to meet my dad,” Skye squeaked.
“And the bad news?”
“Well, part one of the bad news is that it’s going to happen tomorrow,” Skye said. Vell would’ve like a little more notice, but that was far from disastrous. Part two was still waiting, though. “And part two is that I kind of maybe didn’t do a very good job describing the nature of our relationship, and he sort of a little bit thinks you’re...a hero.”
Vell waited for a part three, and there was none.
“Is that the bad news?” Vell scoffed. “I might let him down a little, but there’s worse things my girlfriend’s dad could think of me.”
“Yeah there’s definitely a few upsides, be sure to hold on to those,” Skye said. “But also, you know how I flunked out of mad scientist school?”
“Yeah?”
“Well my dad...didn’t.”
***
“Your girlfriend’s dad is a supervillain?”
“Former supervillain,” Vell corrected. He adjusted the suit coat he’d just put on. “He left the game after she was born and went white hat, now he only builds death rays and robot armies so relevant authorities can observe, learn, and prepare for the real deal.”
Having a genuine mad scientist to train with helped keep secret agents and spies ready for actual threats, and Skye’s father got to keep doing what he loved: threatening to blow up the world.
“Are you still really a supervillain if you don’t actually do any villain shit?” Hawke wondered aloud. “Isn’t he just sort a supertrainer? What would you call that?”
“I’d call it asinine,” Alex said. “We shouldn’t be condoning this behavior, much less inviting him to build a death ray on our campus.”
The Einstein-Odinson had been selected as the faux-mad scientist’s next testing ground, and due to a misunderstanding of his role on campus, Vell had been selected as his testing partner. He had to put on a tuxedo and everything, to better fit the classic secret agent trope Skye’s father was envisioning.
“Mad scientists are an important part of the scientific ecosystem,” Helena said.
“You’d know,” Samson muttered under his breath.
“Conflict breeds innovation,” Helena continued, either heedless to or deliberately ignoring his snide comment. “The arc of history requires both heroes and villains.”
“Yeah, well, as far as villains go, I prefer mine to be weird old dads with fake death rays,” Kim said. “Still, Vell, doesn’t it feel kind of weird that he doesn’t actually know you’re dating his daughter?”
“It’s fine,” Vell insisted. “It’s always awkward trying to talk to your parents about your relationship, and she just over-focused on me saving the day and helping people. Simple miscommunication.”
“And when are you resolving that miscommunication?”
“Later,” Vell said. “Skye and her dad don’t get to spend much time together anymore. They’ll take the day, and we’ll get this all sorted out later.”
A life of volcano lairs, alpine bases, and remote tropical islands did not exactly make it easy for Skye to keep up with her dad, so having him concoct a scheme right on her home turf was a good way for the two of them to spend time together. Right now, Vell’s only priority was allowing for some healthy father-daughter bonding time. And also preventing the apocalypse.
“Okay, I’m good to go,” Vell said, as he finished up the knot in his bow-tie. “Hawke, ready on comms?”
“Mission control good to go, Agent Harlan,” Hawke said. He enjoyed any apocalyptic arrangement that allowed him to stay safely behind a chair, but playing mission control was especially fun.
“Good. Samson, you’re on tech duty,” Vell said. “The rest of you, keep an eye on the island. There’s no guarantee our supervillain will actually end the world. Which feels like a weird thing to say.”
Big events usually invited big catastrophes, and a literal supervillain seemed like a prime spark for some apocalyptic fire, but Vell was not so sure. He couldn’t think of anything less likely to actually end the world than a deliberate attempt to do so. All the loopers agreed having some backup eyes on other potential disasters might be warranted.
“Let’s just get this over with,” Alex said. She was the first to leave, everyone else filtered into their respective roles to play soon enough. Samson walked alongside Vell as he left the lair.
“Hey, do I have to put up the whole mission control act like Hawke was doing?”
“Not if you don’t want to,” Vell said. “Play it up a little if Skye’s dad is around, maybe, but like, right now we can just talk normally.”
“Okay, cool. Got your shit right here,” Samson said, as he hefted a large bag of gadget. “Standard spy bullshit. Gizmo watch, secret cufflink radios, pen with a concealed laser cutter, got it all right here.”
“Thanks,” Vell said. “Where’d you find all this stuff?”
“I just asked,” Samson said with a shrug. “Island full of supergenius weirdos, most of them had this kind of stuff just lying around.”
“Convenient. Did you make a list of everyone you got this stuff from?”
“So we can keep an eye on them? Yeah.”
“So I can give it back later,” Vell corrected. “But yeah, actually, knowing about the laser pen guy might be a good idea.”
“We’ll know where to start with any laser-based apocalypses,” Samson said.
“Good instinct,” Vell said. The two of them walked out of the building and towards the docks. “Am I walking weird? I’ve never worn a tux before.”
“Little stiff, but I think it’s working in your favor. You look more serious.”
“Great, thanks,” Vell said. He stepped up to the edge of the docks and strapped on his gadget watch before checking the time on it. “Should be here soon.”
“You need me to stick around?”
“No, you’re good,” Vell said. “Thanks for the help.”
Samson excused himself before the chaos started in full. Vell felt like an idiot standing around in a tux for a minute or two, until he was joined by someone in an equally odd outfit. Skye joined him in waiting on the docks, wearing a dress with long sleeves and a short skirt over sparkling tights and some very high-heeled boots.
“Very gogo dancer,” Vell said.
“Yeah, dad’s really into that whole Cold War era 60’s style,” Skye said. “Apparently this is what a ‘proper villainess’ looks like to him.”
“Could be worse, could be the catsuit kind of female villain.”
“Ugh, don’t get me started,” Skye said. “Every time he took me to work conferences I had to watch grown women try to waddle around in pleather bodysuits.”
“Supervillains have conferences?”
“Oh yeah, surprisingly good ones,” Skye said. “Especially if you’re a little girl who likes genetically engineered sharks.”
“Oh, so that’s where you got your start.”
Skye nodded. Her penchant for genetic engineering had struck at an early age. Her father had initially been excited for her to get into the family business, but it turned out Skye just liked fucking with fish DNA, and didn’t have much skill in all the non-genetic engineering parts of mad science. He was proud of her anyway.
After shifting on uncomfortably high heels for the umpteenth time, Skye checked her phone and texted her father.
“He says he’s pulling up right now,” Skye said. Vell scanned the horizon and saw nothing coming across the ocean.
“Is he at the right-”
Vell was cut off, and forced to step back, as the ocean started to churn. The waves parted to reveal a jet-black submarine with a towering, jagged skull carved into the prow.
“Oh, right, supervillain,” Vell said.
The imposing submersible drifted to a halt, and a hatched on the side hissed open. Red lights beamed out from the darkness within, and a few seconds later, an armored killbot marched down a boarding ramp, flanked by a towering man in a long white labcoat. He had a jagged streak of black through his otherwise gray hair, and wore heavy glasses with thick black lenses that obscured his gaze and shadowed his face.
“Hi dad,” Skye said.
“Hello dear,” said the man behind the murder machine. He stepped off the boarding ramp onto the dock, as another killbot exited to flank him, and fixed his dark glasses on Vell. “And as for you...I am Doc-”
“Doc” stopped his imposing introduction to have a coughing fit. Skye stepped up and put a hand on his shoulder.
“Dad, did you take your meds today?”
“I did, I did,” the Doc said, between coughs. “Just a climate thing. I got on the damn submarine in Seattle, now we’re in the tropics, there’s pressure differentials, humidity.”
He let out a few more coughs and then cleared his throat loudly, before regaining his previous composure.
“Now, as I was saying,” he continued. “I am Doc Ragnarok!”
His boisterous shout failed to echo in the open air of the docks.
“Oh, good lord, that was terrible,” Doc Ragnarok said. “Can I try again?”
“I wouldn’t bother,” Vell said. “We’re by the beach, open air, the acoustics are terrible.”
“Oh, yes, you’re right,” Doc Ragnarok agreed. “Finally, someone who appreciates the details. You must be Vell, then, or is it Agent Harlan? Do you have a codename I should be using?’
“It’s just Harlan. Vell Harlan.”
“Yes, Skye has told me quite a bit about you,” Doc said. “You’ve escaped kidnapping attempts, outwitted undead thieves, stolen secret treasures.”
“Oh, he’s, uh, also a really nice guy, very helpful, top student,” Skye said, laying groundwork for the eventual boyfriend reveal.
“I expect nothing less,” Doc Ragnarok said. “I can’t begin to tell you how excited I am to face off against someone with real credentials again, Mr. Harlan. For the past few decades it’s been nothing but greenhorns using me as a test run, well-trained but no experience, no sense of style.”
“Well, I am nothing if not experienced,” Vell said. “Stylish, however...well, this tuxedo is a rental.”
“I can tell,” Doc Ragnarok said. He let out a single boisterous bark of delighted laughter. “Ah, look at us, already bantering. I missed this.’
Doc cleared his throat again and regained his ominous supervillain demeanor, as he snapped his fingers to make the killbots flank him.
“I must begin my preparations,” he said, in a voice shockingly distinct from his earlier conversational tone. “Challenge me if you dare.”
“Excuse me a moment,” said a voice somewhere behind the killbots. Doc snapped his fingers, ordering the crowd to part again, and Helena hopped forward on her crutches. Skye glanced at Vell curiously, and he shrugged in confusion. She wasn’t supposed to be here, for multiple reasons.
“Can I help you?”
“Yes, I was just reading your book earlier, ‘Practically Evil: A Guide to Classic Villainy’,” Helena said. “It’s a great read, but what really stood out to me is the section on classic henchman archetypes, specifically ‘The Igor’?”
She held up the book in question, which Vell noted had a picture of Doc Ragnarok holding a skull on the cover, and opened it to the section in question.
“Oh yes, I understand, completely,” Doc Ragnarok said. “As I said in the section opener, that information is presented for historical context, and I strongly condemn the typecasting of differently-abled persons like yourself into such roles. Regardless of my intent, I’m sorry if I caused any offense, and if you have feedback-”
“Oh, no, you misunderstand, I’m not offended, I’m actually intrigued,” Helena said. She turned the book around to quote a specific passage. “‘An outcast, often hunchbacked or otherwise misshapen in such a way to make them a pariah, physically handicapped but mentally gifted, driven to evil by the harsh treatment of judgmental peers’. I think it’s a very fitting role for me, and I’d love to give it a try.”
Vell had several very strong opinions about that, but kept all of them to himself.
“Well, it’s a bit short notice, but I’ll never discourage anyone from following the path of evil,” Doc Ragnarok said. “And this is a training exercise, after all, perfect time for you to train. Come along, minion! The more the merrier!”
Doc Ragnarok snapped his fingers again, and the killbots fell in line, this time with Helena in tow. A procession of smaller robots followed, carrying a worrying number of power cores, ray guns, and mutagens. Not for the first time, Vell began to wonder if this was a good idea. The recurring doubts got obliterated as Skye looked over her shoulder and winked. She was worth a lot more trouble than this.

DAY: May 27 2024
5-27-2024

THE CASE FOR OMEGA-3 SUPPLEMENTATION TO LOWER AGGRESSION

People who regularly eat fish or take fish oil supplements are getting omega-3 fatty acids, which play a critical role in brain function. Research has long shown a basis in the brain for aggressive and violent behavior, and that poor nutrition is a risk factor for behavior problems. Penn neurocriminologist Adrian Raine has for years been studying whether omega-3 supplementation could therefore reduce aggressive behavior, publishing five randomized controlled trials from different countries. He found significant effects but wanted to know whether these findings extended beyond his laboratory.
5-27-2024

WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVES TO OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY AND ARE THEY SAFE?

With summer around the corner, telehealth outlets and medical spas are going into hyperdrive advertising the sale of semaglutide, the active ingredient in popular weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. Recent shortages of the brand-name drugs have opened the door to copycat versions that, while legal, also raise some concerns for consumers, says Kelly Ann Barnes, Northeastern professor of pharmacy law. The copycat drugs are made by specialized pharmacies known as compounding pharmacies, which are allowed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to make off-label
5-27-2024

FIVE BASIC HABITS MAY HOLD THE KEY TO GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

Professor Nick Titov’s professional goal is to make himself redundant. he wants to empower more people with mild to moderate anxiety and depression to understand what they can do each day to care for their mental health. As part of this mission, Professor Titov and his team developed The Big 5, an evidence-based program encouraging five broad types of activities that are strongly linked with good mental health when performed regularly. Everyone’s
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COVID-19 FORECASTING TOOL ALLOWED HOSPITAL TO MANAGE PATIENT CAPACITY, RESOURCES AMID PANDEMIC’S THIRD WAVE

During the peak of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the health-care system’s capacity was stretched and hospitals across Canada relied on each other to share resources and provide care. Experts from
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RESEARCHERS IDENTIFY IMMUNE DYSFUNCTION AS A POSSIBLE ASPECT OF POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME PATHOLOGY

The peripubertal DHT-induced mouse model is a non-obese but insulin-resistant model of PCOS. a) Experimental design. b) Fat mass. c) Insulin levels at baseline and 15 min following glucose administration. d) Blood glucose levels during oGTT. e) HOMA-IR, calculated from fasted glucose and insulin levels. f) Glycosylated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c). A new study shows that hyperandrogenism—a key characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—affects immune cell populations in reproductive, metabolic and immunological tissues in a PCOS-like mouse model. These findings are of great importance as
5-27-2024

RESEARCH IDENTIFIES BRAIN NETWORK LINK TO STUTTERING

Common acquired neurogenic stuttering network. Common areas that were sensitive and specific across both neurogenic stuttering cohorts. Amy = amygdala; ASt = amygdalostriatal transition area; Cl = claustrum; Pall = Pallidum; Put = putamen. A new study published in the journal Brain has identified a specific brain network hub that plays a key role in stuttering. The research, by Te Whare W?nanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury (UC) Associate Professor Catherine Theys, examines two different types of stuttering—developmental and acquired—to show a clear neural
5-27-2024

THYROID DISEASE ISN’T THE END FOR YOUR CAREER PROSPECTS, REPORT FINDS

How employers behave toward workers experiencing thyroid dysfunction could play a critical part in addressing the UK’s labor market challenges. With long-term sickness on the rise in the UK, researchers at the University of Aberdeen Business School have marked World Thyroid Day (May 25) by releasing new findings which, for the first time, explore the relationship between employer sympathy and the labor market prospects of people with thyroid conditions. One in 20 people in the UK have a thyroid problem, with a significant majority of sufferers being women. Posing serious
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STUDY FINDS HIGH-INCOME EARNERS AT LOWER RISK OF DYING FROM STROKE

High-income earners have a 32% lower risk of dying after a stroke compared to low-income earners. The equivalent for high education is 26% lower risk. The differences in stroke survival linked to socioeconomics are striking, according to a study at the University of Gothenburg.
5-27-2024

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE COULD ALLEVIATE LONELINESS, SAYS EXPERT

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology could offer companionship to lonely people amid an international epidemic of loneliness, says a robotics expert. Tony Prescott, a professor of cognitive robotics at the University of Sheffield, argues in his new book “The Psychology of Artificial Intelligence” that “relationships with AIs could support people” with forms of social interaction. Loneliness has been found to seriously impair human health, and Professor Prescott makes a case that advances in AI technology could offer a partial solution. He argues that people can spiral into loneliness, becoming
5-27-2024

ALZHEIMER’S REPORT HIGHLIGHTS IMMENSE CAREGIVER BURDEN—AND POTENTIAL WAYS FORWARD

Some 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s, and about 11 million provide unpaid care for them. Dementia caregiving can present unique challenges, including financial burdens and time constraints, as well as health complications. A report this year from the Alzheimer’s Association demonstrates the true cost of caregiving for those with the disease and calls to establish dementia care navigation throughout the U.S. to lift this burden. Not only is the estimated value of unpaid care near $14 billion in Pennsylvania alone, the report also revealed emotional and physical tolls. Nearly
5-27-2024

US FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION APPROVES ARTIFICIAL PANCREAS SYSTEM

An artificial pancreas developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge has been granted approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use by individuals with type 1 diabetes aged 2 and older, including during pregnancy. This means that even more people living with the disease will be able to use this life-changing app. For the first time, the FDA authorized the use of the artificial pancreas system in pregnancy. CamAPS FX, produced by Cambridge spinout company CamDiab, is an Android app that can
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RESEARCH SAYS POMEGRANATES COULD OFFER A SOLUTION TO FATTY LIVER DISEASE

Researchers at Edith Cowan University (ECU) are investigating the effects ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in some fruits and vegetables, could have on halting and potentially reversing the damage caused by fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the physiological manifestation of obesity in the liver. The prevalence of NAFLD has increased from 25.24% in 2015 to 29.38% in 2021, and this condition now accounts for 45.8% of all cases of chronic-liver-disease-related deaths worldwide. There currently exists no treatment for the long-term management of NAFLD; however, dietary interventions
5-27-2024

MAGIC MUSHROOMS MAY ONE DAY TREAT ANOREXIA, BUT NOT JUST YET

Anorexia nervosa is a severe mental health disorder where people fear weight gain. Those with the disorder have distorted body image and hold rigid beliefs their body is too big. They typically manage this through restricted eating, leading to the serious medical consequences of malnutrition. Anorexia has one of the highest death rates of any mental illness. Yet there are currently no effective drug treatments and the outcomes of psychotherapy (talk therapy) are poor. So we’re desperately in need of new and improved treatments. Psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms,
5-27-2024

STUDY FINDS FEEDING INFANTS PEANUT PRODUCTS PROTECTS AGAINST ALLERGY INTO ADOLESCENCE

Feeding children peanuts regularly from infancy to age five reduced the rate of peanut allergy in adolescence by 71%, even after many years when the children ate or avoided peanut as desired. The new findings provide conclusive evidence that introducing peanuts into babies’ diets early will achieve long-term prevention of peanut allergy. Lead investigator Professor Gideon Lack from King’s College London said, “Decades of advice to avoid peanuts has made parents fearful of introducing peanuts at an early age. The evidence is clear that early introduction of peanut in infancy
5-27-2024

EATING MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES MAY LEAD TO OPTIMAL SLEEP DURATION

Good health depends on a healthy diet and sufficient exercise and sleep. There are clear associations among these components; for example, good nutrition provides energy for exercise, and many people report that getting enough exercise is important to their ability to get enough sleep. So how might nutrition affect sleep? A new study looks at the connection between fruit and vegetable intake and sleep duration.
5-27-2024

MONITORING THE H5N1 AVIAN INFLUENZA, BIRD FLU, OUTBREAK

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to actively monitor the ongoing outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza, also known as bird flu, and says that the public health risk remains low. Dr. Matthew Binnicker, director of the Clinical Virology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, says scientists and public health officials have known about avian influenza for decades. “What’s different today is that since 2020, we’re seeing the largest outbreak of avian influenza among wild birds, poultry and backyard bird flocks,” he says. “The virus has also been found in certain
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INTERNATIONAL STUDY REVEALS SURPRISING TWIST IN HOW DIABETES DRUGS HELP THE HEART

A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial has revealed surprising new insights into how SGLT2 inhibitor drugs, originally developed for diabetes, benefit patients with heart failure. Contrary to common assumptions, these drugs may improve cardiac outcomes and heart health without acting as diuretics. Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s demands, often leading to fluid
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FIRST SEIZURE CLINICS REDUCE THE NEED FOR FUTURE HEALTH CARE, RESEARCHERS FIND

Clinics specializing in first seizures reduce the need for patients to present at emergency departments or be admitted to hospital later, Monash University-led research has found. Timely attendance, particularly within 14 days of the seizure, was associated with reduced subsequent all-cause emergency presentations and all-cause hospital admission. Later hospital admissions were reduced by about 25%. First author Dr. Yingtong Li, an adjunct
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CELL-TARGETING TECHNOLOGY CAN ISOLATE NEURONAL SUBPOPULATIONS AND LINK THEM TO BEHAVIORAL STATES

As gene sequencing technologies become more powerful, our understanding of cellular diversity has grown in parallel. This led scientists at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to
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WATCH OUT FOR THESE HIGH HEAT DANGER SIGNS

Climate change is pushing daytime summer temperatures higher for longer periods of time, and that can spell real danger for folks who work outside, like gardeners and landscapers. Protecting yourself in the heat and knowing the warning signs of heat-related illness is crucial, said Chris Enroth, horticulture educator at University of Illinois Extension. He should know: It happened to him. “When I was working as a landscaper, we had to sod a large backyard during a day when the temperature was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit,” Enroth said. “We were hustling
5-27-2024

STAY SAFE FROM THE SUN AND THAT BACKYARD GRILL THIS MEMORIAL DAY

Memorial Day means firing up that backyard grill for the season, hopefully under warm, sunny skies. You can be sure to enjoy the day without hazards by taking a few simple precautions, said Dr. Mike Ren, an associate professor of family and community medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Watch out for rising heat and humidity If Memorial day is a scorcher, hydration is key, Ren said. “A good rule of thumb is to drink water regularly throughout the day, aiming for 12 or more cups; when in
5-27-2024

HAD A JOINT REPLACED? STUDY SUGGESTS INFECTION RISK MAY RISE AFTER CHEMOTHERAPY

If you’re one of the millions of Americans walking around with a new knee or hip, your odds for an infection in that joint rise if you ever have to undergo cancer chemotherapy, researchers report. “Given the number of people of receiving total joint replacements each year, as well as the cost both physically, emotionally and financially for those who develop an infection and may need subsequent treatment, we need to understand what factors may increase the risk for postoperative infections,” said study author Dr. Janet Conway. She’s an orthopedic
5-27-2024

ANTIHYPERTENSIVES LINKED TO ECZEMATOUS DERMATITIS IN SENIORS, STUDY FINDS

Antihypertensive drugs are associated with an increased risk for eczematous dermatitis in older adults, and the effect sizes are largest for diuretics and calcium channel blockers, whether antihypertensive drug use is associated with eczematous dermatitis in a longitudinal cohort study of individuals aged 60 years and older without eczematous dermatitis at baseline. The researchers found that the overall prevalence of eczematous dermatitis was 6.7% among 1,561,358
5-27-2024

RESEARCH INDICATES KIDNEYS FROM DECEASED DONORS WHO WERE ON DIALYSIS ARE SUBOPTIMAL

Receipt of a kidney from a deceased donor who underwent dialysis is associated with an increased incidence of delayed graft function, compared outcomes of transplant recipients who received kidneys from deceased donors who underwent dialysis prior to kidney donation versus recipients of kidneys from deceased donors who did not undergo dialysis in a retrospective cohort study using data from 58 U.S. organ procurement organizations. Among the donors with
5-27-2024

NEW THERAPY PROVEN EFFECTIVE AGAINST REJECTION IN KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION

Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) is one of the most common causes of kidney transplant failure. To date, however, no treatment has proven effective in combating this complication in the long term. As part of an international and multidisciplinary clinical study led by Georg Böhmig and Katharina Mayer, Clinical Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III at MedUni Vienna and University Hospital Vienna, a new therapeutic principle in transplant medicine has been found to be both safe and highly effective. The results were recently published in the New England Journal
5-27-2024

SHARJAH UNIVERSITY PATENTS APPLICATION FOR DISTANCE COVID-19 DIAGNOSIS

Smart Identification of Health Status based on QR Code and User Health Data. Credit: author’s own creation The University of Sharjah has been granted a patent for inventing a smart gadget with the ability to filter user information that will allow doctors to diagnose COVID-19 and other ailments from a distance. The patent, granted by United States Patent and Trademark Office on 1 August 2023, comprises “a display unit, a color code detection unit, an image filter, an optical character recognition unit, a code detection unit and an elimination unit,”
5-27-2024

STUDY REVEALS WHERE DELAYS ARE WORST

When it comes to responding to a stroke, speed is a crucial factor; the longer it takes for someone experiencing a stroke to get to a hospital, the worse the outcome will be. Yet across the United States, delays to treatment can be significant. A Yale study uncovers new insights into factors associated with treatment delays and where in the United States patients are more likely to experience slower responses. The findings, which were published May 24 in the journal Stroke, highlight where interventions should

NEW STUDY SHOWS HEAT WAVES INCREASE RISK OF PRETERM, EARLY-TERM BIRTH

The increased frequency and intensity of heat waves due to climate change puts women at a higher risk of experiencing preterm and early-term labor—jeopardizing the health and well-being of their babies. An analysis of 53 million births that occurred in the 50 most populous U.S. metropolitan areas during the 25-year period 1993–2017, showed
5-27-2024

NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES, EARPLUGS AND EARMUFFS—DO THEY REALLY HELP NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE?

Noise can make it hard to concentrate, especially for people who are extra sensitive to it. Neurodivergent people (such as those who are autistic or have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder—ADHD) can experience different sensory sensitivities. Their nervous system may process information differently when they are exposed to sensory experiences such as bright lights, loud noise, strong smells or busy environments. Decreased sound tolerance is estimated to affect up to 70% of autistic people and is described in three ways: hyperacusis (perceiving everyday sounds as loud or painful), misophonia (an aversion to
5-27-2024

MASSACHUSETTS SHELLS OUT NEARLY $400,000 FOR VACCINE RECORD CHECKS IN STATE-RUN SHELTERS

State officials have pumped nearly $400,000 into a program to review the vaccine records of families entering the emergency shelter system, including migrants from other countries who may have foreign documentation, according to the Healey administration. Officials at Boston-based John Snow, Inc., which has long worked with the state, have been contracted to review immunization documents. Since January, more than 1,200 children in state-run shelters have had their records checked, according to the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, or HHS. Vaccine record checks have occurred since September 2023
5-27-2024

LAWSUIT ACCUSES FLORIDA’S PALM BEACH COUNTY HOSPITAL NETWORK OF SHARING PATIENTS’ PRIVATE DATA

The Palm Beach Health Network has become the latest health provider accused of illegally sharing identities and private health information of its patients with the social media company Meta, owner of Facebook. A lawsuit filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in West Palm Beach says the health network’s websites share code with Meta that enables patients to be targeted with advertising on Facebook based on “highly sensitive personal information” they share. It names as defendants the Palm Beach Health Network Physicians Group, doing business as Palm Beach Health Network, and
5-27-2024

CAN THE PLACEMENT OF DENTAL IMPLANTS IN HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS BE DONE BEFORE RADIATION THERAPY?

Globally, head and neck cancer accounts for 5% of all cancer types, with a mortality rate of 50%. However, in the Nordic countries, head and neck cancer accounts for only 2.6% of all cancers, with a mortality rate of just 30%. But more survivors mean that many must live with extensive damage and side effects
5-27-2024

STUDY FINDS CLIMATE CHANGE INCREASES RISK OF CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS OUTBREAKS IN NEW ZEALAND

More cryptosporidiosis outbreaks could be on the cards for Aotearoa New Zealand as extreme rainfall events become more frequent, causing higher levels of the diarrhea-causing parasite to be washed into waterways, public health researchers warn. The researchers studied clusters of cryptosporidium outbreaks around the country between 1997 and 2015 and found 13 coincided with severe weather events. Their research is published in the journal Epidemiology & Infection. It is the first study to compare clusters of outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis to severe weather events in Aotearoa.
5-27-2024

RESEARCHERS EVALUATE IMPACT OF NEW FILM’S MESSAGE ON CHILDREN’S AND ADULTS’ BODY IMAGE, SELF-COMPASSION

Unrealistic expectations about what our bodies should look like—whether from the media, friends or family—make adults and children of all ages more vulnerable to body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and other mental health challenges. In a new study published in Body Image, Flinders University experts assessing the program’s usefulness in classrooms highlight the potential for the film “Embrace Kids,” directed by 2023 Australian of the Year Taryn Brumfitt, to achieve large-scale improvements in body image
5-27-2024

STUDY FINDS INCREASED SUICIDAL THOUGHTS, SUICIDE ATTEMPTS AMONG ADOLESCENTS EXPOSED TO EARLY PHASE OF WAR IN UKRAINE

Data Collection in the War-Affected Donetsk Region and Non-War Kirovograd Region. A new study carried out by a multinational research group showed high levels of suicidal thoughts and attempts in adolescents, which were strongly associated with wartime traumatic experiences, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. Dr. Sanju Silwal from the Research Center for Child Psychiatry in the University of Turku, Finland, one of the lead authors, says that the study was conducted in two regions that
5-27-2024

STUDY FINDS SIGNIFICANT DISPARITIES IN THE DELIVERY OF CANCER-RELATED CARE

It’s important to ensure that care provided at US hospitals that predominantly serve Black and Hispanic populations is as high-quality as the care provided at other US hospitals. New research reveals significant disparities in the delivery of cancer-related care at minority serving hospitals (MSHs) compared with non-MSHs, however. The findings are published in Cancer. For the study, investigators analyzed information from the National Cancer Database (which accrues approximately 70% of US cancer diagnoses) to identify patients eligible for definitive treatment for breast, prostate, non-small cell lung, and colon cancers between
5-27-2024

WHO SEEKS $7 BN WITH FUND-RAISING REVAMP

The World Health Organization launched Sunday a new financing mechanism that aims to raise $7 billion of funds that can be deployed more quickly and flexibly. The UN agency has traditionally relied on commitments from its 194 member states, but often these are apportioned to specific projects with several conditions attached, including deadlines that can prove too short. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said commitment increases would contribute $4 billion to the agency’s budget of $11.1 billion over the four years through 2028. “The Investment Round aims to mobilize the
5-27-2024

SECOND PERSON DIES OF CHOLERA ON FRENCH ISLAND OF MAYOTTE

Scanning electron microscope image of Vibrio cholerae. Credit: Wikipedia A 62-year-old woman has died of cholera in Mayotte, bringing to two the death toll from the epidemic on the French island in the Indian Ocean, health authorities said on Sunday. The woman died on Saturday at her home in Mamoudzou, the capital, the ARS health authority said in a statement. “Response teams went to the scene to disinfect the home and take care of the deceased’s family and friends”, the statement added. In May, the disease claimed its first life
5-27-2024

ALTERING CELLULAR INTERACTIONS AROUND AMYLOID PLAQUES MAY OFFER NOVEL ALZHEIMER’S TREATMENT STRATEGIES

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have made a significant breakthrough in Alzheimer’s disease research by identifying a novel way to potentially slow down or even halt disease progression. The study, which focuses on the role of reactive astrocytes and the plexin-B1 protein in Alzheimer’s pathophysiology, provides crucial insights into brain
5-27-2024

BRAIN DAMAGE STUDY REVEALS PART OF THE BRAIN NECESSARY FOR HELPING OTHERS

Our willingness to help others is governed by a specific brain region pinpointed by researchers in a study of patients with brain damage to that region. Learning about where in the brain “helping” decisions are made is important for understanding how people might be motivated to tackle large global challenges, such as climate change, infectious disease and international conflict. It is also essential for finding new approaches to treating disorders of social interactions. The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, was carried out by researchers at the University of Birmingham
5-27-2024

IMPROVING AI LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS HELPS THEM BETTER ALIGN WITH HUMAN BRAIN ACTIVITY

NSP as a computational account of discourse comprehension. (A) Humans integrate words and sentences to achieve a full understanding of discourse. In LLMs, the NSP task proposed by BERT can serve as a computational account of human discourse comprehension. (B) Illustration of the MLM task. (C) Illustration of the NSP task and its relevance to the Mason and Just model. (D) Illustration of Mason and Just’s neurocognitive model of discourse processing. Credit: Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn7744 With generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) transforming the social interaction landscape in recent years,
5-27-2024

STUDY EXAMINES METABOLIC REPROGRAMMING OF BREAST CANCER TUMORS DURING NEOADJUVANT CHEMOTHERAPY

In a study published in Nature Communications, scientists have made significant strides in understanding the complex interplay between the immune system and cancer metabolism in breast cancer treatment. The research
5-27-2024

RESEARCHERS EXAMINE EVIDENCE FOR A NOVEL NEURONAL MECHANISM DRIVING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

An international team of clinicians and neuroscientists have published a new perspective on the process of neurodegeneration. Their findings review evidence for a mechanism upstream of amyloid including the key neurochemical driving this process. The paper, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, focuses on a selective group of neurons (“the isodendritic core”). These cells have a different provenance from neurons in the rest of the brain and have previously been identified as primarily
The research, by a team from Finland’s University of Helsinki, National Institute for Health and Welfare, and Turku University of Applied Sciences, is published in
5-27-2024

WHO CHIEF URGES COUNTRIES TO QUICKLY SEAL PANDEMIC DEAL

WHO countries have spent two years seeking an agreement on tackling pandemics. The World Health Organization chief on Monday urged countries to nail down a landmark global agreement on handling of future pandemics after they missed a hard deadline. Scarred by COVID-19—which killed millions, shredded economies and crippled health systems—nations have spent two years trying to forge binding commitments on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. Negotiators failed to clinch a deal ahead of this week’s World Health Assembly—the annual gathering of WHO’s 194 member states—the deadline for concluding the talks.
5-27-2024

STUDY DEMONSTRATES HOW GUT MICROBES PROCESS STEROIDS—USING FLATULENCE

It turns out flatulence can serve a purpose beyond being uncomfortable or funny: Gas released by some gut bacteria stimulates other gut bacteria to produce a hormone involved in pregnancy and in an FDA-approved treatment for postpartum depression, according to new research led by Harvard Medical School scientists. The work shows how gut bacteria can produce new hormones from steroids in bile and, in doing so, act like an endocrine organ. This research adds to the growing list of ways gut microbiota may influence human
5-27-2024

PHYSICAL FRAILTY MAY PUT PEOPLE AT GREATER RISK OF DEPRESSION, STUDY FINDS

Individuals who meet at least one of the criteria for physical frailty are at higher risk of also developing depression, a new Yale study finds. The findings—which also include insights into the specific inflammatory molecules and changes in brain structure that could underlie this association between frailty and depression—point to a need for routine assessment of physical frailty in clinical practice, researchers said. The study was published May 23 in Nature Communications. In clinical settings, physical
5-27-2024

RESEARCH TEAM RESOLVES STRUCTURE OF CRUCIAL ENZYME FOR THE FIRST TIME

For the first time, a team co-led by CHU Sainte-Justine researcher and professor in the Faculty of Medicine at Université de Montréal, Alexey Pshezhetsky has succeeded in resolving the unique structure of the HGSNAT enzyme, a deficiency of which causes Sanfilippo syndrome, a rare pediatric disease affecting the central nervous system. Through collaboration with a team from Shanghai University, the structure of this enzyme and the mechanism of its function were revealed using high-performance

Mission: Test Drive (Must use 1 assigned mech)
From faction: Pirates
Target faction: Pirates
Mission Start
I drop down with my squad. A nice mix of mechs, tanks and BA.
Surprise #1 Pirate's faction spawns an ally squad. Move down the map and encounter the other pirates. I move down the field.
Surprise #2 the Directorate spawn in. A couple of mechs, a plane and a helicopter. Nice more loot. [Round 3 or 4?]
Surprise #3 Pirates spawn in. Shit its the bad ones. They drop in with mechs, a plane and a helicopter. Chaos ensues. [Round 4 or 5, round after Directorate Spawn]
I don't know if pirates vs pirates is scripted but what a fun and odd mission!
ChatGPT:
The arms deal had been a carefully orchestrated affair, designed to transfer a significant cache of weapons from the Bad Pirates to the Directorate. Unfortunately, the intricate web of betrayals and double-crosses was about to unravel in the most spectacular way.
As the Good Pirate's mercenary unit, your task was straightforward: eliminate the Bad Pirates and secure the shipment. You and your lance of seasoned MechWarriors landed on the deserted plain, dust swirling around your BattleMechs as they settled into their positions. The Bad Pirates, seeing your arrival, immediately jumped to the conclusion that the Directorate had sent you to double-cross them.
Without hesitation, they opened fire.
Laser beams, autocannon shells, and missile trails crisscrossed the battlefield, creating a chaotic dance of destruction. Your lance moved with practiced precision, returning fire with deadly accuracy. The cacophony of combat was deafening, each explosion and impact reverberating through the hulls of your mechs.
Meanwhile, the Directorate's drop ship arrived on the scene. From the cockpit, the Directorate commander stared in disbelief at the carnage below. "What in the name of Kerensky is going on?" he muttered. His attempts to hail the combatants were met with silence; the communications channels were clogged with the frantic chatter of pilots and the electronic noise of ECM suites.
"Deploy a lance and get some air support down there. I want to know what the hell is happening," he ordered.
Four sleek mechs and a pair of aerospace fighters descended from the drop ship, their pilots scanning the battlefield for any sign of organization. Instead, they found a maelstrom of metal and fire, a battlefield where friend and foe were indistinguishable. As they moved to engage, the Bad Pirates saw the new arrivals and assumed the worst: reinforcements for the treacherous Directorate.
"Call for backup! More Directorate mechs incoming!" the Bad Pirate commander shouted. The response was swift. Reinforcements, including several heavy and assault-class mechs, began to drop in, their landing thrusters glowing like angry suns as they descended into the fray.
The Directorate pilots, equally bewildered, found themselves under fire from all sides. "Hey, we are here for buying weapons, not using them!" one of them yelled over the comms, but it was no use. The battlefield had descended into a chaotic free-for-all, each side fighting under a cloud of misapprehension and fury.
Amidst the chaos, you and your lance fought valiantly, trying to make sense of the madness while staying alive. Your employer's orders were clear: kill the Bad Pirates. But as the Directorate mechs entered the fray, it became increasingly difficult to differentiate friend from foe.
Explosions rocked the plain as the battle reached a fever pitch. The ground shook under the weight of the warring mechs, the air thick with the acrid smell of burning metal and the sharp tang of ozone. Communications were a garbled mess, with screams for reinforcements and desperate calls for retreat intertwining in a tapestry of warfare.
In the end, it would be your skill, your tactics, and perhaps a bit of luck that would determine the outcome of this disastrous convergence. As you fired your PPC into the side of a marauding Bad Pirate mech, you couldn't help but think: this was supposed to be a simple mission. But in the world of mercenaries and pirates, nothing is ever simple.
The battlefield was a testament to that truth, a graveyard of ambition and treachery where only the strongest would emerge victorious.

Chapter 4: Medical Bay 1, Priority Alert

The apothecary adept worked swiftly, her hands moving with practiced precision to stop the Emperor's bleeding. She applied a coagulant, the chemical hiss mingling with the rhythmic hum of the ship. Simple stitches closed the most life-threatening wounds, though the task was far from complete. "Right, he's stable, for now," she said, wiping Aurelian’s blood on her trousers. Her eyes flicked to the engineering adepts. "We need to move now, and quickly. I can't treat him properly here. We need to get back to the ship as soon as possible."
Two engineering adepts stepped forward, their faces grim beneath the harsh lights. They carefully hoisted the Emperor up, one arm over each of them. Aurelian, barely conscious, managed to keep his eyes open, his gaze unfocused but determined. "You two!" Cadwalder barked, pointing at the engineering adepts. "Carefully. But with haste." He nodded at the two adepts, who responded with a resolute nod of their own.
"Let's get moving," Cadwalder ordered, his spear pointing the way through the labyrinthine corridors of the Talos. The dark passages were lit only by their torches, casting long, flickering shadows that danced menacingly on the walls. Every noise, every creak and groan, every flicker of their torches had the armed members of the group turning on their heels, scanning the darkness for unseen threats.
"Comms adept," Cadwalder called out, his voice a sharp command.
"Yes, sir," came the reply, the adept already working to patch into the comms-link.
"All search parties. Return to boarding site, repeat, return to boarding site. Priority alert. Return to boarding site. 60 minutes to extraction."
The message echoed through the corridors, a beacon guiding their scattered teams back to safety. Slowly but surely, they made progress, navigating the dark, oppressive environment with cautious urgency. Within 45 minutes, they arrived at the boarding site, a breath of relief mingling with the cold, recycled air. One by one, the groups returned, save for the team Aurelian had sent to the bridge. The pilots fired up the engines of the personnel carriers, their mechanical roar a promise of safety.
"Let's go!" one of them shouted from the open cockpit window.
Within a minute, they had all boarded their ships and departed. The ship deck lay empty and quiet, an eerie silence settling over the abandoned Talos once again.
Back on the Imperator Somnium, the atmosphere was one of tense anticipation. The ship had been hailed on their way back across the 15 k-units of empty space between the two colossal ships, and all preparations had been made. As they carried Aurelian into Medical Bay 1, dozens of apothecary adepts sprang into action, their movements a choreographed frenzy. Suturing and cauterizing, monitoring vitals and administering medications, they worked tirelessly, the air thick with the scent of antiseptic and the quiet murmur of medical jargon.
Cadwalder stood guard at the door, his imposing presence ensuring the apothecaries could work uninterrupted. His eyes were fixed on the med bay corridor that extended before, but his thoughts were with his Liege. The hours dragged on, each one heavier than the last, until finally, Cadwalder could resist no longer. He marched into the medical bay, his heart pounding in his chest.
He was stopped by the apothecary adept who had initially treated Aurelian aboard the Talos. "Does he live?" Cadwalder demanded, trying to see through the throng of medical personnel surrounding the Emperor.
"He does," she replied, her voice steady and reassuring. "Rest assured that he is now, and will remain, stable in our care. His wounds were extensive, but we have done our work and done it well."
Cadwalder nodded, a weight lifting from his shoulders. "Go. Rest. Or continue your vigil at the door if you're so inclined. Be content that you will be the first outside of this room to know when he wakes." the apothecary adept smiled as she spoke.
Reluctantly, Cadwalder left the medical bay, resuming his post at the door. Hours passed, the quiet hum of the medical bay a stark contrast to the tension thrumming through his veins. More and more of the ship's crew gathered in the corridor, their whispered queries about the Emperor’s condition going unanswered, some mustered the courage to ask Cadwalder on the wellbeing of their Emperor, he didn't even look at them. Cadwalder remained silent, a vigilant sentinel, a statuesque guardian between the Emperor and the rest of the known universe.
"Nikaean! Nikaean, get in here!" the apothecary adept’s urgent shout shattered the silence. Cadwalder spun on his heel and entered the room, locking the door behind him.
"Restrain him," she ordered, her voice taut with urgency. "He's seizing. I’ve never seen something this violent."
Cadwalder moved quickly, holding Aurelian by the wrists, attempting to keep him still. Despite his outward appearance, Aurelian seemed to possess an unnatural strength and power, his thrashing form almost impossible to contain.
"Hold him!" she repeated, her voice rising above the chaos.
Suddenly, Aurelian stopped thrashing. He lay still, his eyes wide and staring into Cadwalder’s with an intensity that was almost otherworldly.
"I saw—I saw how it ends. There was a battle. A great battle in the snow. I saw it! The universe will give battle in my name. A war in my name! Billions will die. The stars will cease to shine, the seas will boil and the skies will fall! And all that once was will be lost." His voice dancing between a full-bodied shout and a hoarse whisper, his words trailing off as he slipped back into unconsciousness.
"Well, that's that then," the apothecary adept said, placing the sedative down with a shaky hand. "Leave him with us. We'll monitor his brain activity and notify you when he wakes again."
Cadwalder resumed his vigil, the hours stretching into nearly a full day since Aurelian’s return to the Somnium. More and more of the ship's crew gathered, their concern palpable in the hushed conversations that filled the corridor.
"Nikaean. He's awake," the apothecary adept’s voice broke through the din. Cadwalder entered the medical bay once more, locking the doors behind him.
"You live," he said, a mix of relief and reverence in his voice.
"I do, albeit with a terrible stomach ache," Aurelian tried to smile, but it was more of a grimace. "What happened to us, Archamus Cadwalder?"
Cadwalder dropped to one knee, fist on his chest in a salute. "We were attacked. On board the Talos, we were attacked by some—some thing. Pale-skinned, full of hatred. It impaled you with my spear. It knocked it from my hand before it struck me away from your side. You vanquished it, and I carried you to safety, back to the Somnium. Forgive me, my Liege. I have failed you."
"You saved me, Cadwalder. Without you, I'd be dead, and this great work would be undone. You have failed no one," Aurelian said, mustering what strength he had and bidding Cadwalder rise. "I had initially only ever intended there to be six Seraphim when I founded their brotherhood. Six warriors without equal, six masters of death loyal to me in perpetuity."
"Forgive me, Sire, but I don't understand."
Aurelian paused before trying to shuffle himself upright. "Help me up, Cadwalder."
"My Liege, you must rest, heal."
Aurelian extended his hand, ignoring Cadwalder's protest. Cadwalder grasped his Lord's hand, helping the still shaky Emperor to his feet. "I think there will be seven Seraphim. But for now, help me walk to the door. Let them see that I live and that I am well."
Cadwalder did as commanded, guiding Aurelian to the door but no further. Understanding his Liege's desire to appear strong, he stepped back as the doors slid open with a mechanical hiss. The corridor fell silent, every eye fixed on the Emperor. All stood in awe, some gasped, some began to weep, then Cadwalder stepped behind his Liege.
"All hail, Imperator Aurelian! King of Alexandria Primus and Regnum Solis, Woe of Fold XIX, Defender of the Praetorixa, Bright Sword of the Black Expanse, and Lord and Master of The Great Empire!" Cadwalder’s voice echoed through the corridor, and all dropped to one knee.
Aurelian surveyed the sea of faces before him. "Rise. All of you, rise." He brought Cadwalder to his side. "Without this man, I would not be here with you today. Without this man, I'd have perished alone in the dark aboard that cursed ship." Aurelian clasped Cadwalder’s armoured hand, raising it high. "Behold! Archamus, High Lord of House Cadwalder, Master of the Seraphim and saviour of the Emperor!"
The corridor echoed with the salute, "Hail, Archamus!" Cadwalder looked across the gathered crew, feeling a mix of humility and duty.
Aurelian returned to the medical bay, finally heeding Cadwalder's advice to rest. He lay down with a groan, carefully shifting to find comfort.
"You," Aurelian called, pointing to the tall, slender apothecary adept. "Come here."
She approached, setting down her instruments. "Yes, my Lord. What do you need?"
"Nothing. I need nothing. I know your face, but I can't put a name to it. Why do I know your face?" he asked.
"I stabilized you aboard that ship. Archamus did what he could, but you were still losing blood. I repaired the most damaged parts of the wound before you were brought back to the Somnium for proper treatment... and to heal," she added, raising her eyebrows at him.
Aurelian chuckled softly, wincing at the pain. "What do they call you?"
"Avicenna Ibn Sina, my Lord, assistant to the master Apothecary aboard the Somnium."
Aurelian smiled warmly. "Well met at last, Avicenna Ibn Sina. You are assistant to the master apothecary no longer. You are my personal physician. While in my service, you will wear the black colour of my house. Go, change your clothes as I have commanded. Oh! And you may wish to choose a colour that suits you better for when your services and skills are no longer needed. I name you Avicenna, High Lady of House Sina."
With pride almost overflowing, Avicenna hurriedly made her way back to her quarters to change as commanded by her Lord.

The first time it happened, Allison dismissed it as merely the wind playing tricks. She had been teetering on the edge of sleep, wrapped in the comforting cocoon of her blankets, when the noise at her window stirred her from her drowsiness.
Scritch. Scritch.
The sound was faint, barely audible over the hum of the night, yet distinctly unnerving. It had a way of creeping into her consciousness, making her skin prickle with an uneasy awareness. She sat up abruptly, her heart pounding like a war drum in the quiet room. Through the gloom, she could barely discern the outline of her window. The darkness seemed to press in from all sides, amplifying her anxiety. She listened intently, every muscle tensed, but the scratching ceased. She held her breath, waiting, but there was only silence. Convincing herself it was nothing more than the night’s whispers, she lay back down, though sleep remained elusive, her mind replaying the eerie sound.
The next night, it returned.
Scritch. Scritch.
This time, it was more insistent, almost hungry. Allison shivered as she crept towards the window, her bare feet whispering against the cold floorboards. Every fiber of her being was taut with unease, a thousand thoughts racing through her mind. Was it an animal? A branch? Or something worse? She cautiously drew the curtain aside just enough to peer outside. The moonlight cast long, sinister shadows across the lawn, creating an eerie landscape of darkness and light. She scanned the scene, her eyes darting to every corner. No branches were near enough to touch her window. There was nothing. She stood there, paralyzed by fear, until the sound ceased, the silence almost as disturbing as the noise itself. Exhausted and unnerved, she crawled back into bed, unable to shake the sensation of unseen eyes watching her from the shadows.
The third night was a living nightmare.
Allison awoke to the sound of footsteps on the roof, slow and deliberate. Each step sent a jolt of terror through her, her heart hammering against her ribs. She could feel the vibrations through the ceiling, each one a reminder of her helplessness. The footsteps halted above her window, and then came the scratching, more vicious and determined.
Scritch. Scritch.
Her hands shook as she grabbed her phone, her fingers fumbling in her haste. She dialed her friend Mike with frantic urgency, her voice trembling as she explained. He arrived within minutes, his face set in a grim expression, brandishing a baseball bat. Together, they scoured the house and yard, their flashlights cutting through the darkness, but found nothing.
“Maybe it’s just an animal,” Mike suggested, though his eyes held a shadow of doubt. His voice was meant to reassure, but it only made Allison more uneasy.
But Allison knew better. There were no branches near her window, and the sounds were too deliberate, too calculating. She felt a growing dread in the pit of her stomach, a gnawing certainty that something was very wrong.
The following nights were a relentless torment. The footsteps and scratching returned every night, always at the same time, always ending just before she could catch a glimpse of whatever tormented her. She was unraveling, her body and mind worn down by exhaustion and dread. Her days were a blur of anxiety, and her nights were filled with terror. She would lie awake, listening, her breath shallow and her eyes wide in the darkness.
Desperation drove her to sell her house and move into a small, unremarkable apartment in the city. It was a decision born out of sheer survival, a last-ditch effort to escape the relentless torment. For the first time in weeks, she slept soundly, the nightmare seemingly behind her. The city noises, once an annoyance, now provided a comforting background hum, drowning out any whispers of fear.
Months passed, and the terror faded into a distant memory. Allison began to feel safe again, her life regaining a fragile normalcy. She even laughed about it with friends, chalking it up to an overactive imagination and the creaks of an old house. The new apartment felt like a sanctuary, its plain walls and mundane surroundings a stark contrast to the horrors she had left behind.
One stormy night, Allison was curled up in her new apartment, the sound of rain against the windows lulling her into a sense of peace. She felt a tranquility she hadn’t known in months, a deep, soothing calm that washed over her. The rhythmic patter of the rain was like a lullaby, easing her into a state of relaxation. She closed her eyes, letting the gentle cadence of the storm soothe her.
Then she heard it.
Scritch. Scritch.

First Previous Next Discord
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Chapter 37

“Shit!” Tom shouted out as the tripod he was on fell down into the treeline below. The alien foliage was rising up faster than he would like as his feet slipped as the hull beneath his feet angled down. With thought, Tom activated the magnets in his suit's armoured feet helping him to stick onto the hull of the falling tripod. Fliping around to face the rear of the mech Tom fired the grapples in both arms into the hull.
“I hope it's enough,” Tom muttered just before the sound of snapping branches filled the air as the war machine crashed down. Trees broke like twigs as the tripod ploughed into them and the ground with a loud crash.
The front of the tripod's head buried itself a few meters into the forest floor covering everything around it in mud and dirt. The bottom of the nearby trees that were left standing were coated in dirt and impaled by shrapnel.
The tripod ground to a halt after burying what survived halfway into the ground parts of the machine were scatted about the impact crater. Tom somehow managed to hang on until the very end. The crumbling and shattering hull of the tripod saveing its slayer's life.
Tom opened his eyes slowly, “well that worked.” He said to himself after detaching from the hull.
“All systems functional, that was lucky I was sure we would take some damage,” Apollo replied. “Next time just use the rail gun please.”
“I wish we had a bigger one,” Tom chuckled back. “mount it on top of the keep and sinpe from five k away.”
“That might work if we had one,” Apollo commented. “I was thinking of trying to get some of the weapons made for knights we have converted into make-shift machine gun positions.” Apollo fashed up some concepts on Tom’s Hud long enough for Tom to take it in.
“Could be a good idea,” Tom replied. “But I think we should head back to Raf he might be worried.”
“Good idea,” Apollo replied as Tom started to walk back leaving the now burning weck behind him.
It wasn’t long before Tom crossed paths with Raf again, who was glad to see him. The worried look on his face melted away as he walked towards Tom from the edge of the forest and farmland. However, it was replaced with a look of amusement and shock. “How did you not die!” Raf exclaimed.
“wasn’t as strong as I feared and the pod took most of the impact of the fall,” Tom replied. “Wouldn’t want to try doing that again. I'm going to take the Mag lance with me if I think one of those things will be around.”
“The gun that took out the skyship?” Raf asked and only continued when Tom nodded, “Wish we had more like that. no way to make them?”
“Too complex for what we have here,” Apollo answered, “I fear if we tried we would make a gun that is as likely to blow up the user than the target.”
Raf’s face dropped, “might be a good idea not to try.”
Tom smiled under his helmet, “Don’t worry it’s a good idea. Just not one that’s possible unless we get a one dropped on us.” Tom shrugged, “doubt that will happen until the fleet gets here. They might wait till they get orbital supremacy too.”
“Would taking out that ship in orbit help?” Apollo asked.
“Why are you asking Apollo? You should have done like ten simulations about it already.” Tom replied having a feeling Apollo was onto something.
“One hundred and ten actually but that’s not the point.” Apollo answered, “The point is there is around an eighty precent chance there is a shuttle nearby. I already sent some scouts with headsets to see. We should get a report soon. It's likely the one that brought the Herbit down and some other scout squads I'm getting reports of over the few headsets we have so far.”
“Herbit?” Tom and Raf asked at the same time.
“Yes, I gave the tripods the reporting name of Herbits based on how you called them a war of the worlds rip off Tom.”
Tom chuckled, “Makes sense. Dosn't make them sound so tough.”
“You can’t do what you did to a tank. It looked scarier than it was.” Apollo replied. “I don’t think it is meant to be a front-line combatant.”
“Agreed,” Tom nodded before looking to Raf, “It was making a base, don’t think they will be doing that now. looking like it was a forward operating base for an invasion.”
Raf nodded, the gravity of the situation wasn’t lost on him. “think they will make a new one?”
“No doubt,” Tom replied, “but it’s a setback. one they can easily fix in time but it will take time for them. Hopefully, they will need stuff that is not in the system yet. stuff that’s temporarily irreplaceable. Guerilla and asymmetric warfare tactics are what we need to employ.”
Raf nodded not fully understanding but understanding enough to get the point and to make some guesses at what Tom meant. “Tactics to deal with a superior force? We have the concept but I have a feeling you humans refined it more than we have.”
Tom nodded, “Correct, at least on what it is.”
“Also likely on the more refinement part too,” Apollo added, “I don’t think They have the concept of combined electronic and logistical warfare.” There was a short pause, “no offence I'm sure you guys have come up with some great tactics.” Apollo sounded genuinely worried that he might of upset Raf.
Raf chuckled, “You are an artificial mind powered by tamed lightning, I accept you guys have better technology and refined concepts more. We Fevarian’s still have something that makes us, us.” Raf sighed. “Even if I'm not sure what it is yet.”
“I can’t blame you, must be a hell of an identity crisis to find out you are a tiny part of something bigger.” Tom responded, “What are we in the grand scheme of things? what’s our purpose in life? it’s a hard question.”
“Do you have an answer?” Raf asked curiously and hopefully.
“There isn't a purpose in life for us,” Raf's face dropped at the answer, “except the one we chose,” Tom added on.
“The one we chose?” Raf asked confused.
“Take fate into our own hands and do what we think is right and do things we care about. That’s what led me to this planet and I hope it will lead me off it in time.” Tom explained.
Raf nodded, “I think I get it.”
“In the end, it’s up to you what you decide, you may settle on something else.” Tom finished off, “We better get heading back or towards that shuttle Apollo thinks is out there.” Tom nodded towards the forest.
“Good timing I just got a report from the scouts and told them to head back to The Capital. One shuttle is on the ground and likely still have scouts in the area. We got a chance to destroy that ship in orbit here.” Apollo explained. “Hide the nuke in the landing gear or something and I can set it so it will blow inside the ship.”
Tom rushed towards the marker that appeared on his HUD, “Get back and report on what happened Raf!” He shouted back, noticing Raf nodding with his back facing the camera. Tom was hoping he wasn’t being rude but this was an opportunity. Tom had to grab it with both hands.
Tom ran as fast as he could safely run in a heavily wooded area. Apollo was scanning the area and Tom was ready to hit the dirt to hide at any moment. It wasn’t needed since Tom reached the small clearing the shuttle was in.
Keeping to the bushes Tom studied every shadow of aquatic inspired-looking shuttle. Parts of its hull open for landing gear planted firmly on the ground or a ramp to embark and disembark. It was fair to assume that it was waiting to recover the scouts after the mission was over. It seemed even The Dominion didn’t treat everything as completely disposable. It looked like it was left alone. “Anything Apollo?”
“Can’t detect a thing. I think they just left it here not expecting anyone to find it I assume,” Apollo answered. “Put the nuke in the landing gear space. I have configured it to go off inside a larger ship. if not I made sure it will scuttle itself in atmos or if it's tampered with and to donate if it is in vacuum if it seems like it wasn’t taken to a ship.” The AI explained.
“Good job Apollo,” Tom replied as he carefully walked up to the shuttle. Nothing came out to try and kill him Going under the nearest landing gear Tom reached up and using mag locks attached the bomb to a shelf inside the well. To make sure it wouldn’t budge Tom bent over a piece of structural pipe that came loose on one end to help hold it in place. Using His sword superheated blade melted the end welding it back to the hull. “That should do it.”
“It should,” Apollo replied, “now let’s get out of here before they notice us.”
“Agreed,” Tom replied. He quickly rushed back into the forests heading away. Taking a few random turns before heading back to The Capital.
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First Previous Next Discord
Hunting Humans
Out of time a theme for the knight
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Captain here,
We are back! sorry for the long break. was hard getting back into it after a long break due to uni. i hope to get back to one every 2 weeks soon maybe once a week if I'm lucky.
even if you not interested in my crossover fan fic the last part as of writing this has some fan art of what Tom looks like in his amour.
i hope you all enjoy and expect the next part within the 2 weeks time frame but i hope it be sooner.
like always thank you for reading, Captain signing off.

Name: Slay Station Modes: M+ Progression, PvP (all forms), General Shenanigans, Raiding Style: Casually Hardcore (have no idea what this means, but all the "cool kids" are saying it) Communication: Discord Server: Frostmourne Experience/Level: Any Active Times: Mon-Fri 7PM - Midnight (ST); 24/7 Weekends Raiding: Sunday: 8-10:30pm server time Normal
Monday 8-10:30pm server time Normal (continuation from Sunday night) + Heroic Progression
Greetings intrepid adventurers! Slay Station would like to reach out from beyond the VB tinny grave to tickle your fancy with the most incredibly lurid offer: Come and use our Coles fuel saver rewards points. Seriously. I've got so many of these**; t**hey just go to waste all the time. If you join today, I will let you scan my app and save a tenth of a cent off of fuel today! Oh, we also play WoW and stuff. Our LGBTQIA+, Female, and family-friendly community is continuously expanding like the Borg to soak up the best of the best across the land. We add them into our collective unconscious, where we will nightly search for the best avenues to gain loot evenly while laughing hysterically at the same time.
Some testimonials from our membership
"I had a tendency to imitate a Murloc in the bathroom at work when I joined. After 30 days I can tell you that now there are three more people who also enjoy Murloc life with me! Next week we are knocking down a wall to make more room for our bipedal, amphibious brethren to join us." - SavageSalad, 2024
"One time I had been foraging mining nodes in War Mode and checking for Horde scum when all of a sudden, BAM! A group of enemies stomped me! Over the crested hill came a gaggle of people wearing only boots, a mean look on their faces, and draped with some Slay Station banner. Not only did they save me, but they killed the other group! They then wandered off laughing and punching each other. Simply astounding." - MinerPete, 2024
"Soundgarden is the best band from the '90s. I'm glad the guild accepts this as fact." - NotChrisCornell, 2024
"Having a team of Doomkins at your back is a godsend. Every time we face defeat it merely serves to make us grow stronger! Of course, the enemy seems to have these people too. Damn it. Sounded so good when I typed this out." - MalfurionBae, 2024
Nightly Forays into Madness
The guild leader appears randomly and without warning in a puff of smoke. Snoop Dogg has nothing on this individual. She is available for agro pulling in key runs, Switch parties, and also cake baking. Our activities each day/time look like the following:

• Levelling: Acquiring gear that sometimes covers our parts;
• PvP: Coaxing loot from fallen corpses;
• PvE: M+, old raids for those delicious xmogs, wallowing in the sadness of mounts we'll never acquire;
• Raids: Sunday: 8-10:30pm server time Normal; Monday 8-10:30pm server time Normal (continuation from Sunday night) + Heroic Progression
• Standing by a Longboi in Valdrakken, contemplating life's mysteries.

How the guild operates
As an officer, I have long loved the statements "have a fair go, give a fair go” and “what you put into it, you get out of it.” In many ways, you will get out of this guild precisely what you are willing to put in. If you want a certain specific event, the best way to make sure that happens is for you to lead it! We're always open to feedback. Communication is key to any finely honed team in any environment. We are no different. Expect voice communication to be mandatory on any team run you are a part of; don't worry, there's no need to talk, but the ability to hear call-outs is a must.
The Community that keeps on giving
Once upon a time, in a land that time forgot, this guild was born out of blood and fire; It was more like boredom and the GM's overarching irritation at guild toxicity - we all hate that. Once people join, they usually don't leave unless they're overly competitive or enjoy Marmite a little too much. Ewwww. Vegemite or GTFO.
Rules? We have some!

• Don't be a Richard;
• Understand that our Guild is very diverse (backgrounds, ages, sexualities, genders etc.);
• Have some fine dining habits;
• Real-life comes first - always;
• We joke around A LOT. Our humour tends to be all over the map;
• Be open to mental probing and psychic awareness... What does this even mean?

Come hang out with us, have some laughs, and hopefully stay awhile. You'll be glad you did. We take our fun seriously. The guild is a collection of talents, skills, and social commentary broadly expressing itself across the land.
Discord Contacts

• GM and Raid Leader: bornforgreatness
• Officer (me): nekromancin
• Officer: fallen8302
• Officer: beardedmoosely

While I enjoy the original Star Wars trilogy well enough, I'm not any sort of SW superfan. So I was wondering if there's any similar efforts for other films? I'm sure the budget for other restoration projects probably won't be anything close to what they've been able to put together for the 4k77 stuff, but I'm interested all the same.
I know theres a 35mm scan of Michael Mann's The Keep floating around, would love to see a similar restoration for something like that.

PROOF: https://imgur.com/a/pzgp689
I ship securely and will have items out Wednesday. I ship via USPS ground and or priority (depending on weight). Shipping is FREE if your order is over $150 ($5 if not).
Disclaimer: Once package is scanned at the post office the liability is off me (of course I will assist as much as possible). Insurance can be purchased at buyer expense (I’ve never had an issue in 150+ sales).
I am aware of the recent password scam (I would not provide my password to anyone).
VENMO or ZELLE for payment (only use an emoji in Venmo note).
All items photographed in capsules will be mailed in capsules.
1/2 OZ ROUNDS @ $16 EACH:
(4) LIBERTY LOBBY ANDREW JACKSON - 1/2 OZ
1 OZ ROUNDS @ $31 EACH:
—-VALKYRIE NORSE GODS 1 OZ—-
THOR - SOLD
FREYA - SOLD
ODIN - SOLD
LOKI - SOLD
—
WALLSTREET SILVER - SOLD
WALLSTREET BETS - SOLD
ERIC BLOODAXE - 1 OZ - SOLD
JOHN WICK - 1 OZ - SOLD
STAR WARS GROGU - SOLD
1 OZ COINS:
(1) 2017 KOOKABURRA - $33
(2) 2020 KOOKABURRA - $34
(1) 2021 TUVALU ‘HADES’ - $34
2022 PHILHARMONIC - SOLD
2019 MAPLE LEAF INCUSE - SOLD
TUVALU JAMES BOND - SOLD
1 OZ REVERSE PROOF MAPLE LEAFS:
2016 MONKEY (LIGHT WEAR TO LEFT OF LEAF) - SOLD
2016 TANK - SOLD
2016 PANDA (SMALL TONING AT TOP LEFT/EDGE) - SOLD
2018 DOG - SOLD
2 OZ ROUNDS ‘THE AWAKENING SERIES’ @ $62 EACH:
(2) QE INFINITY- 2 OZ (1ST IN SERIES)
2 OZ CANADIAN ‘CREATURES OF THE NORTH’ @ $62 EACH:
(2) 2021 - WEREWOLF

Chapter 2 season 1 Info of the season: Battle pass characters return by having a new style to them. They don’t wear the Ghost or Shadow logo on them, all they know is that they are fighting counterparts of themselves. Until Jones from chapter 1 season 10 has made his way to the island by a strange blue lighting but unknown to them all a shadow figure (Fusion)has also made its way to the island seeking to be whole. Players will be able to see Fusion whereabouts by scorched marks, he will travel around the island gathering info on how to gain his full form. It will end when Fusion has managed to regain his form but will be stopped by Remedey but by stopping him it will cause the next season.
Drivable vehicles: Whiplash, Trucks, Custom Car and Boat keep fuel gage, Gas station and fuel cans are back to refuel the vehicle
Guns: Assault rifle - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic and Legendary, Burst Assault Rifle - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic and Legendary, Pump shotgun - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic and Legendary, Tactical Shotgun - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic and Legendary, Suppressed submachine gun - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Tactical Submachine Gun - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic and Legendary, Submachine Gun - Epic and Legendary, Suppressed Sniper Rifle - Rare, Epic and Legendary, Hunting Rifle - Rare, Epic and Legendary, Revolver - Common, Uncommon, Rare, Scoped Revolver - Epic and Legendary
Utility: Cozy Campfire, Rusty Can, Grenade, Stink Bomb, impulse Grenade, Boogie Bomb, Launch Pad, Damage Trap and Bush
Consumable: Small Shield Potion, Shield Potion, Bandages, Med kits, Slurp fish, Flopper, Jellyfish, Shield Fish, Hop Flopper and Thermal Fish
Outside the loop, the seven lead by foundation is alerted by the destruction of the zero point, he scans the area for any shards left of the zero point. All we see is a name on the screen “ The Paradigm” missing.
Foundation slams his fist on the computer and walks off screen, camera pans right to left when Foundation leaves the room the camera slowly pans back to the right suddenly the scanner brings up multiple zero points.
Jones wakes up having no memory of his past life, he speaks “where…..where am I? Looking around, nothing seems familiar and he decides to investigate this place BANG! Jones froze, afraid of who or what is behind him, he turns slowly…
Meet Journey, camera pans behind Journey showing the assault rifle pointed towards Jones, as Jones slowly turns around the camera slowly pans in middle. Showing the confrontation between the two.
She aims her gun at Jones, he tries to speak but nothing as if he forgot how to talk. “?” The expression of shock on his face, as she approaches Jones she notices her counterpart Hazard.
Meet Hazard, the camera still in the middle showing the confrontation between Jones and Journey, showing a shadow figure by a tree with a sniper.
Hazard raises her sniper at Journey she shoots BANG! Journey pushes Jones to the ground dodging the bullet, she hands Jones a pistol holding the pistol he knew exactly what to do. He aims shooting at Hazard, Journey with a smirk on her face aims down her assault rifle firing bullets towards her counterpart, Hazard nearly gets hit by the bullets takes cover behind a tree both Journey and Hazard alert their team members.
Meet Turk, Rippley, Riptide and Sludge
Hazard is still awaiting reinforcements, Journey and Jones still firing with every bullet they got buying as much time as they can afford. She gestures to Jones to head east towards a weird looking factory dispensing blue liquid, she counts down 3,2,1 they dash towards the factory. Hazard leans down her scope and fires, a wave of slurp overwhelms Journey and Jones stopping the bullet in its tracks Jones confused on how this can happen. Journey lends a hand to Jones helping him to his feet and introduces Rippley, Jones confused on how this is all possible, then down the stream Riptide heading towards Journey, Jones and Rippley. Firing rockets towards them allowing Hazard time to get behind, aims down her scope again before she can get a shot on Journey Turk intervenes Hazard. Journey noticing that Turk is also here she leads Jones to a spare boat once Jones is on she hops into the boat starting it up and rides off grabbing Rippley as she drives away. Turk notices and heads towards the bridge only to be stopped by Sludge, feeling cornered a rocket lands towards Sludge blowing him away Turk bolts it for the bridge avoiding Hazards shots jumps over the bridge and lands on the boat awaiting at the bottom. Journey accelerates off in the distance.
Mini event - Remedey intercepts a transmission from a corporation called Ghost saying “Midas” at the same time Toxin also intercepts a transmission from another corporation called Shadow “Kill Midas” both report this information to the team, both asking the same question “Who is Midas?” But what wasn’t shared with the team was before the transmission was lost they heard a warning “Fusion must not be free”.
Mid-game - event A figure slowly makes its way to Steamy Stacks leaving scorch marks around the map, at Steamy Stacks the door is broken down, scorched marks making its way to the Fusion reactor. It's been powered up and charging counting the last few days remaining.
Live event - Journey, Remedey, Turk, Cameo, 8-ball, Rippley and Jones have come to Steamy Stacks but awaiting their arrival was Scratch and Sludge, Remedey knowing that the Fusion reactor must be stopped she slips away from the group. Journey and Jones notice, she instructs the rest of her team to take out their counterparts. War between the two teams breaks out, Cameo v Chic, Rippley v Sludge, Turk v Riptide, 8-ball v Scratch. Inside Steamy stacks Toxin and Hazard are both in the Fusion reactor, unknown to them the mysterious figure emerges from the shadow inside the Fusion core. The shadow absorbs the energy retaining his form, until Remedey, Journey and Jones blow their way into the room disrupting the shadow figure. Hazard and Toxin spot their counterparts and unleash hell fire, Journey and Jones duck behind the rails shooting back only for Remedey to slip away making her way to the control panel. The shadow enraged by the action of the lesser beings, constructs an energy ball hurling it towards Hazard and Toxin.
Back outside where the rest of the team are fighting
BOOM!! A gaping hole on the side of the factory reveals Hazard, Journey, Toxin and Jones unconscious, from the smoke the shadow figure starts to rebuild its body gaining his full form. Remedey manages to make her way into the Fusion reactor control room seeing her comrades unconscious remembering what she heard “Fusion must not be free” she thought the Fusion reactor was the main priority but no, Fusion wasn’t the reactor it was a thing of imaginable power but she notices that it’s still draining the Fusion reactor power. She looked around and did what she thought was right. If he wants power then she’ll give him power, increasing the reactor beyond the limit. Fusion feels more powerful, unknown to him it was too much, he turns seeing that someone was giving him more than he can take looks down to his hands and realise he is fading? No not fading, he’s splitting! He can feel another presence within him getting loose feeding of the Reactor a dark energy builds around him consuming him. Suddenly BOOM! A massive amount of energy passed through the island.
Not a cloud in the sky but suddenly blue lighting struck around the island hitting the water next to craggy cliff where a yacht can be found, next lighting struck the middle island where a strange looking building appeared as if the lighting brought them here. The lighting dies out, camera pans back to steamy stacks.
The fighting between both teams came to a halt, they gathered around where Fusion exploded, looking down into the crater unsure on who is who but sure of one thing that he has to be contained. Journey and Hazard come to an agreement they both take one back to their base, Journey takes the white cloak Fusion and Hazard take the black cloak on their way back to there base Journey and her team are surrounded by Midas and his league of Ghost while on the other side of the map Hazard is also cornered by Marigold and her league of Shadow.
Story written by Logan Bundy

[First Contact] [Dark Ages] [First] [Prev] [Next] [wiki]
"Now hear this, now hear this.
"In less than an hour we will drop out of jump space. Chances of an enemy encounter are high. We are far from home, far from support and surrounded by untold trillions of Mar-gite in deep space. This is good, it means we don't have to worry about what we shoot at.
"When the time comes, I have only one standing order: fight. Fight with every gun, every missile, every ounce of will and scrap of code at your disposal. If central control is lost, fight under local control. If isolated from the computers, fight under manual control. If boarded, fight for every corridor, every stateroom, every access way you can reach. Fight for your lives and if you find your situation hopeless, fight to drag the enemy into the grave with you.
"The Confederacy expects that every sentient will do their duty. Our duty is to engage the enemy.
"And the enemy only exists to be destroyed.
"That is all." -- Nova Wars Era, Confederate Space Force, speaker and ship of origin uncertain.
"Tell me, Sister? How far does your sight reach? How many years? And then, in the future, when we have given up strength, and allies, and numbers, and the potential to fight back meaningfully, time and again, in pursuit of your safe path... and you find out it is a cul-de-sac, surrounded on all sides by death, with no possible escape, because you traded away every chance of victory because you were scared... who will you blame then?" - Dhruv Deshmuhk, Legion, apocryphal, referenced in "Telling a Hard Truth straight: a love language", Psychology Forever Journal
"We fight, not for today, not for this blood soaked agony wracked terrible day or the horrible horrible victory we may wrench from the gnashing jaws of defeat with blood soaked hands.
"We fight for tomorrow. For those yet unborn. For the future.
"You are the hope of the Telkan people. You are the living standard, the banner, that says to the universe: We will not submit! We will not kneel! We will stand! We will fight!
"With that, know that the Telkan people are with you, Marine. Always." - Director Brentili'ik, in a speech to Telkan Marine Officer's Training Course Class #10, Confederacy-Council Conflict Era.
The flashes were starting. Not big ones, not the Flashbang, but rather the tiny pinpricks of harsh light that sparkled for a second that vanished.
Deaths that had happened seconds or minutes prior.
Captain N'Skrek stared out the windows of the Show Bridge, staring at the inky black of space. The ship, the Gray Lady, was in between the Galactic Arms, in the vast nothingness that held no stellar systems.
Oh, it had at one time.
Forty thousand years prior the stars between the two galactic arm spurs had gone out, with the exception of a single string of pearls liking the two galactic arms.
Now, the Gray Lady, a ship in the Colossus Class of ancient Confederacy Space Force classification, was deep into the gulf between the galactic arms. Just over halfway.
He could see the rings that made up a long tube, the rings held into position by what looked like, at a distance of light seconds, to be thin straps. Coasting silently through the rings, bathed by light emitted by the interior of the rings, were massive Mar-gite Attack Clusters.
Sparkles were starting to show on the clusters as the Fruit Flies made their attack runs.
Larger flashes, still rendered tiny by stellar distances, started shining to brief life as the C+ cannon barrages and the missile swarms started slamming into the shining chrome ships.
Return fire was causing the battlescreens to cover the ship in a gauzy veil.
"No, no, it's all death and destruction," a Terran woman moaned from where she was being held in place by three identical human males.
Captain N'Skrek knew that it was, without any doubt, a physical assault upon the female.
But Captain N'Skrek was also smart enough to know not to get involved when two Immortals of myth and legend were having a family squabble.
After all, were not the Treana'ad a crafty and wise people who managed to obtain victgory over 25% of all military engagements with the Terrans?
"We're humans, there's always death and destruction," the male said, his voice slightly mocking. "Look past the probabilities. Look past the initial death and destruction. Look at the pathways it all leads to. Look at the path that we're taking."
The woman struggled but the man held her still.
"It's all death and destruction! Millions! Billions! Trillions of deaths!" she wailed.
"The enemy's death toll does not matter, little sister," the man, known to historians as the Biological Apostle Vat-Grown Luke, told the woman. "It's war. There will be death and destruction no matter what. What matters, all that matters, is that humanity and its allies survive."
"Please, Luke," the woman started sobbing.
"Tears don't work on me," Legion said, his voice full of dark and cruel mirth.
He leaned his head down.
"I am... Legion," he said softly.
Captain N'Skrek put the two Immortals out of his mind as he coordinated the battle, taking tactical and strategic advice from his staff.
The Fruit Flies wreaked havoc on the rings, shattering them, letting superstructure damage work with inertia and momentum to tear the systems apart. C+ cannon shots hitting deep inside the megastructures. The shots were no longer straight iron ferrite slugs with a hyperdrive engine for thrust and reactionless inertia engines for guidance and terminal maneuvers, they now had a burning core of spooky and strange-particle FOOF that weighed in the metric kilotons.
"Fruit Fly system back online, Captain."
"Fabricate and launch," N'Skrek ordered. "Compliments on their initial strikes."
The silver ships were destroyed already, the temporal range finders reporting data from when the shells would hit, telling N'Skrek's staff where the ships would be when the shots were fired.
"I can't... I can't..." the woman sobbed when N'Skrek ordered another flight of Fruit Flies into the fight.
"Parse the deaths, parse the destruction," Legion said. Another of him pointed at the icons for the just-launched Fruit Fly flights. "They are born, they live, and they die to kill the enemy. Over and over, it's what they do. Look past their deaths at their accomplishments."
The Terran woman was sobbing, but N'Skrek didn't care.
He had a job to do.
Task Force Lonely Peach had a job to do.
It had came as no surprise to him that Legion would know, without being told or having it confirmed, what the ultimate goal of Task Force Lonely Peach.
After all, Legion himself had carried out such orders under the command of the Imperium.
It no longer mattered what happened behind the Gray Lady, whether or not the Confederacy or anyone else survived. It no longer mattered if the Mar-gite were victorious or not.
The target were not the Mar-gite, present in the massive rolled up long cones.
The target were the ones pushing them forward, the ones enabling them to cross the great emptiness between the two galactic arms.
No, the target was now those enabling the Mar-gite.
Captain N'Skrek's orders were simple.
Find the enemy.
Determine their leadership.
Attack their military.
Attack their planets.
Sterilize their stellar systems.
Break the will of their civilians to support their government.
Leave them no ground to go to.
His briefing had been grim. The Confederacy was confident it could eventually stop the Mar-gite.
Eventually.
That meant dozens, hundreds, possibly thousands of planets denuded of life. Just as many stars nova-sparked to wipe out any trace of the Mar-gite.
Task Force Lonely Peach had been dispatched with a very Terran mission.
To return to the Mar-gite's masters what they had given the Confederacy.
Tenfold.
Captain N'Skrek watched as the Fruit Flies split up into squadrons, heading for any remaining hulks of the silver ships, the larger pieces of the megaconstruct, and to fire upon any of the Mega-Clusters or larger.
"Look past the death and destruction," Legion was saying. "They'll be sending in reinforcements, Sacajawea," his voice grew low and deadly. "Where will they come out."
"No, I won't," she whispered, her eyes wide and staring at the holotank. "I won't use my gift," she sobbed.
"You will. You ran away last time. You left us to rely on The Detainee to access the SUDS. You ran off and left us and humanity has been extinct for forty-thousand years," Legion was saying. "No more running, little sister. You will use your gifts, your powers, as you were meant to."
There was a perfectly timed coincidental moment of silence on the Show Bridge.
"Show us the way," Legion said.
Sacajawea suddenly jerked upright, the tendons on her neck standing out as her face raised to the ceiling. Her arm lifted, pointing out the window of the Show Bridge. Her other hand thrust itself into the hologram. Her eyes glowed purple, lightning crackled up and down her raven braids, and sparks danced between her teeth as they chattered.
A section of space was outlined as she gibbered for a moment, fragments of words, chops of sentences, followed by a string of numbers that the tactical computers recognized as coordinates.
"They come, more than before. They know not what they face, just that the enemy, that we, are attacking them, attacking their forces, and so now they will arrive here and now," she cried out. "They do not know, they come in a multitude that not even this powerful vessel can resist. They come by the hundreds, and will overwhelm even this vessel according to my Sight."
She collapsed and Legion caught her even as two versions of him turned to face the windows.
"Let me know when you want me to call for those reinforcements I promised you," one said.
"Or not," the other said.
N'Skrek just nodded, turning and giving orders to the crew to prepare for a microjump to put them 'above' and 'away' from the point that Sacajawea had pointed out.
"Can she have lied?" N'Skrek asked, the Legion standing beside him as four others carefully carried Sacajawea off.
Legion shook his head. "No. I'd know if she was lying," he said. "She was filled with a trance, a fugue state, so the more mortal part of her wasn't there to lie."
"Hold off on those reinforcements until we can see what we are facing," N'Skrek said. He snorted. "I doubt the young lady fully appreciates the firepower the Gray Lady can put out."
"She was never military. She had some training, but not much," Legion said. "Still, she had a vision, take that as you will."
N'Skrek nodded. He turned and ordered up more Fruit Flies to be generated.
He'd have them launch as soon as the microjump was finished.
"Digital Sentiences, Virtual Intelligences report jump transit safety interlocks are engaged," came the word.
N'Skrek motioned. "Engage."
The painting appeared, but before N'Skrek could pause to look at it he was thrown through it, the image shattering into hundreds of shards of reality. They dissolved almost instantly.
N'Skrek only took a half-step forward as the ship entered realspace.
"Load the planet-crackers. Target the larger Mar-gite constructs. Let's see how they like that, since we don't have to worry about gravitational wobble," N'Skrek ordered. "When our new guests arrive, I want them to be focusing on the constructs."
"Fruit Flies are launching. Steam driven launcher only," came the report.
N'Skrek nodded, staring at the screen.
"I remember waiting to ambush the Mantid's Third Fleet that was heading for Sol," Legion said conversationally, as if he wasn't speaking about one of the most famous wars of ancient history. "Hiding in the gravity shadow of a supermassive gas giant, inside the rings themselves."
He turned and gave N'Skrek a grin.
"An Armada of One," he said. "No chance for the Mantid to overwhelm my brain, to shut me down. Beyond a Hive Mind, a singular mind with a singular purpose."
"Sounds exciting," N'Skrek said, watching the windows and the holotank at the same time.
"Very boring. I played a lot of video games and card games," Legion said.
"Against yourself, even an MMO would be solitary and single player," N'Skrek said.
"Ruins PvP," Legion grinned.
"I'll bet," N'Skrek said.
"The Sacajawea of that time stood on the bridge with me. She had shown me where the Mantid would take the most casualties and where I would be killed quite often," Legion said. He pulled out a pack of cigarettes and N'Skrek hid a frown at the fact he didn't recognize Lucky Strike as a brand he was familiar with.
"Does it hurt when you get killed?" N'Skrek asked as Legion lit two cigarettes, handing one to N'Skrek.
"Very much so," Legion said. "Took me a few hundred thousand deaths to get used to it. Now, it hurts, it's terrifying, but not much more than clipping my fingernails," he sighed. "It's all right. I've always been, in many ways, less than human."
"You seem, to my albeit limited experience, to be very human to me," N'Skrek said. He took a drag off the cigarette and almost started coughing. It was harsh, raw tobacco with no additives and the filter tasting heavily of asbestos.
The Fruit Flies were scattering, going to full stealth, blinking their ready icons.
"Thank you," Legion said. He exhaled smoke. "Like the smoke?"
N'Skrek nodded.
"Gift from the Dee. Not the Detainee Lady Lord of Hell," he said, staring at the holotank. "But The Dee. The flesh and blood one," he gave a rueful chuckle. "Evil never dies."
"Harsh," N'Skrek said.
The missile pods flashed ready and went to stealth.
"Like her," Legion smiled. He suddenly looked a bit sad. "I miss her. Miss my siblings, the other Biological Apostles," he said. He sighed. "Sacajawea makes me miss them all that much more."
N'Skrek just nodded.
"Sometimes I miss the Digital Omnimessiah too."
"Ship is at silent running," came the soft voice.
N'Skrek stood there, smoking, with Legion standing next to him.
Behind them Mar-gite clusters were breaking up from a combination of the FOOF and the split second artificial singularities that exploded into existence inside their mass.
Perhaps I can't completely eliminate them, but I can knock out a measurable percentage since I don't have to worry about how it might affect a stellar system's gravity balance, he thought at one point.
Time slowly ticked by.
"How is she?" N'Skrek asked at one point.
"Recovering. I'm sitting with her. I had a medic look at her. Physically, she's fine," Legion said.
"She should be on anti-depressants and undergoing therapy. For us it's ancient history, for her the Glassing and the loss of her people, even her death, are recent events. She only died a short time ago," N'Skrek said.
"And you should be dancing for a comely matron and I should be somewhere helping someone correct genetic sequencing damage," Legion said. "Shoulda, coulda, woulda, didn't."
N'Skrek just nodded.
"Wait, can you see that?" Legion suddenly asked, pointing at the window.
"What?" N'Skrek said.
"The stars. A faint red-shift," Legion said.
N'Skrek looked toward the scanning officer, who frowned and looked at his instruments.
"It's faint. And large," Legion said. He motioned with his hands, using the smart-glass interface to highlight the area. "Right there."
"Nothing, sir," the scan-tech said.
N'Skrek tapped his lapel. "All personnel, prepare for enemy engagement," he said.
His voice carried over the intercom.
"Akka-Berry," Legion said softly. "They use a form of Akka-Berry."
The chrome ships suddenly appeared, wavering slightly like a heat mirage before solidifying up. They appeared pebbled and dull, like unbuffed and unpolished chrome.
"OPEN FIRE!" N'Skrek roared. He knew it was unnecessary, that the computers would give the fire order.
But it seemed to carry more weight as the PA repeated it.
0-0-0-0-0
Legion got into the elevator, waiting a moment after the doors closed to touch the panel. He overrode the alarms, then stopped the elevator.
The shadows warped and a light fog filled the elevator car.
It cleared to reveal a short Terran woman, with black hair pulled behind her head in a long braid, a severe face, plump, overripe figure, and gunmetal gray eyes.
"Well?" Legion asked.
"She's a child," the woman spat.
"I know that," Legion said. "Can you help her?"
"No, I mean, she's literally a child. Physically. She's never grown up," the woman snarled.
"Our aging was halted due to what we were going to do. The last thing we needed was a temporal sheer to kill half of us via old age," Legion said.
"I know that, you multiplying idiot," the woman snapped. "But she should have been allowed to grow into an adult first."
"She chose to stay young," Legion shrugged.
"And her brain has the neural pathways of a child," the woman snapped. She dug out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter of enameled steel. "The human brain doesn't fully mature until it's in its mid-20's. That's why we sent 18 year olds off to die in a rice patty or on some god forsaken beach. You need people who think charging the machinegun is a good idea, and teenage boys are well known for their excellent risk-reward judgement."
Legion just shrugged.
"But her, she's a child. Sixteen at the most, probably later fifteen," the woman said. She pulled out a cigarette, held it between her even white teeth, and lit it. "She has the mind of a teenage girl, a people known for their excellent decision making ability and capability to process trauma."
Legion just nodded.
The woman put away the cigarettes without offering one to Legion. He saw the emblem on the lighter.
"US ARMY ATOMIC COMMAND" in red block letters.
"You know how I feel about child soldiers," the woman said.
"It was The Glassing," Legion just shrugged.
"It's always something," the woman snarled. "Doesn't change how I feel."
"Can you help her?" Legion asked. "You're closer to her than I am."
"You mean, I'm as much a primitive barbarian as she is," the woman said, suddenly smiling without any humor. "I am what I am and she is what she is. Primitive savages from a time of hardship, resource shortages, and social upheaval."
"I wouldn't be so rude as to put it that way," Legion said. He smiled back. "But, yes."
The woman stared at the brushed steel wall of the elevator for a long moment. "I won't alter her SUDS record."
"Of course not," Legion said.
After a moment she nodded. "I can't help her, but I know some people who may."
Legion looked down at her. "Who?"
The woman smiled and exhaled smoke that filled the elevator car.
Her teeth and eyes were still visible.
"You'll know them when I bring them," she said. The eyes blinked. "Keep me in the loop for what's going on here. I have a feeling that events back home are going to have my attention pretty soon."
"I will," Legion told the eyes as the smile vanished.
The eyes closed.
Legion could feel it when she was gone. The smoke slowly cleared, leaving him alone in the elevator.
0-0-0-0-0
"What is taking this elevator so long to get here?" Jaskel asked 8814.
--not know computer says is moving-- the greenie replied.
"Aw man, Gunny's going to have my ass."
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One day in the Marvel Universe, VIctor Von Doom dissapears from Latveria. No one knows where he went (including his subjects), and groups like Shield and the Fantastic Four are confused to what would've happened to him.
The next day, the whole nation of Latveria-buildings, cars, people, soil- is wiped off the face of the Earth. The Avengers and FF go to the giagantic of field of dirt that was Latveria, yet find nothing.
Reed Richards does some scans around the land, when out of nowhere, a sinister shadow looms over the planet. As soon as Reed and co. sees the strange moon orbiting around the Earth, they know it's the work of Doom (probably because there's a giant shape of his mask on one side of the planet). Dozens of warships surround the world as all video screens get hijacked as Doom appears.
Doom explains his abscence; you see, Doom teleported himself to a planet thousands of light years away (a world consumed by poverty, war, famine, etc) and took it over ruling it with an iron fist but bringing peace to it. After taking it over, he teleported Latveria to the new planet (called Planet Doom; yes, I know) and devised his plan to go back to Earth.
Wait, you may ask; how could he do all of that in two days? Doom, being Doom, picked the planet because of it's time dilation (one day there there is equal to 2.5 years), giving him enough time but also surprising the heroes of Earth.
Doom offers Earth a choice; out of the kindness of his heart, he extends an inviation to all humans to come and live in peace ruled under him. If his planet is attacked, the dozens of warships will rain down upon the p[anet.
Surprisingly (or not), millions of people board the ships offered by the Good Doctor despite most nations disapproving, It turns out that a lot of people are sick with the constant supervillain attacks and alien invasions, and want a new start, even if it's under a tyrannical dictator (at least they get free healthcare).
Meanwhile, the Avengers, X-Men, Fantastic Four and others meet to discuss what to do. It is decided that a recon team consisting of Black Widow, Iron Man (in his stealth suit), Invisible Woman, Wasp, Vision, and Miles Morales Spider-Man board the planet, while a team of 'diplomats' (Namor, Captain America, Mr.Fantastic, and Black Panther) ask to meet with him, though this doesn't work.
Eventually I don't know where it would go (I'm tired) but I think maybe the planet would be banished or Doom wins, where millions of Earth citizens leave.
What do you guys think?

Hello Boise friends! I wanted to let you know that on Saturday, June 15th at 1:00pm, I will be hosting a special FREE screening of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back at the Idaho Film Society in downtown Boise! What makes this screening special? Well, because this screening will be using the recently released fan preservation of the original unaltered theatrical cut of the film known as Project 4K80! This amazing project took over 6 YEARS to complete and uses a few different theatrical release 35mm prints that were scanned, cleaned, color graded, and released in 4K resolution. The result? The best looking and sounding version of the original unaltered film to date. This screening will be 100% FREE for you to enjoy, and will be projected on a big screen using a 4K Laser projector withing the IFS Station theater. Popcorn is FREE, and candy/drinks will be available for $2 each. Since the Idaho Film Society is a non-profit, donations are welcome, and all concession purchases will go towards keeping the Idaho Film Society up and running for years to come! So if you are a film lover, Star Wars fan, or just someone who likes having a good time, we hope to see you there June 15th to witness the version of Empire that George Lucas doesn't want you to see! The Saga continues! May the Force be with you!
WHERE: Idaho Film Society 1212 W Bannock St, Boise, ID 83702 WHEN: Saturday, June 15th @ 1:00pm PRICE: FREE (Donations welcome) CONCESSIONS: Popcorn (FREE), Candy/Chips/Drinks ($2 Each)
LEARN MORE Idaho Film Society: https://www.idahofilm.org/ Project 4K80: https://www.thestarwarstrilogy.com/project-4k80/

Location: San Francisco, California
"Here, you'll need these." F stated as she handed out a couple pairs of anti-sentinel goggles, Wade taking them as he replied to F.
"Thanks, I've still got mine, Tina could use these too." F raised an eyebrow as Wade gave his girlfriend a pair of the shaded visors, Tina examining them before trying them on.
"What are these, F?" Tina asked her disassembly drone friend curiously, F putting a hand to her hip as she answered her.
"Anti-sentinel visors, Coalition specialty. Since we're going into that factory upon landing, we'll be most certainly running into some nasty baddies. Knowing our experience from the factory, sentinels will most likely be among that lot." Putting on her own set of goggles, she continued. "These visors will keep them from taking you out of the fight with their boot-loop lights."
Duncan raised a finger as he added his warnings on the sentinels. "Aye, best watch your back though. Even if they can't Medusa ya in place, they're still feisty beasts to wrestle." Chuckling, Duncan shared a morbid example. "I remember one lad who tried fendin' one off in a pirate cell, but he wasn't ready for those sharp talons those things have."
F nodded in agreement as she glanced to Tina, her confused expression from before returning as she asked the pilot drone for her reasoning. "By the way Tina, why do you need one of those? You plan to head out with us or something?"
The pilot drone nodded in affirmation as she explained. "If it's no problem, I'd like to help Wade out with the fighting inside the labs. Him and I did hold off well enough against a few of them, didn't we?"
Wade nodded to Tina as he put a hand onto her shoulder, backing up her rationale. "That might work, we've got this baby on autopilot, right?"
F added onto Wade's reasoning as Tina gave her own nod of affirmation. "These Chameleon dropships can be flown by a single pilot under certain situations, and though I really shouldn't advise it, I think the ship will do fine while we're inside." The warrior drone gave a wink to Tina as she continued. "You did say you wanted to help Wade with taking down Halloway, after all."
Nathan chuckled lightly as he gave his thoughts on the matter. "Yeah, and once Tina sets us down, I doubt they'll care much about the ship once we've started heading out."
"Indeed." J stated aloud, catching the attention of all in the conversation as she spoke to Wade and Tina. "I don't doubt your skills when fighting together in combat, but until we land, Wade will have F and I at his side. You just keep the ship safe during her run. Got it?"
"Won't be a problem, Mrs. J." Tina replied with a salute, J looking on in slight amusement as Wade looked to his hand, curious about his full arsenal.
"Something wrong with your hand, Mr. Carter?" J asked in calm concern as Wade zipped his head up to face her.
"Oh, no. Just... wondering about what kinds of weapons I've got on me." The former worker drone answered as J held her own arm out to show off.
"Well, that's not a bad question. To be completely honest, there's countless different tools and weapons you can pull out of those arms." J began swapping to different armaments and devices with her hand as she stated some examples. "Laser cannons, machine guns, grenades, rockets, welding cutters, flags, markers, the list goes on." Swapping her hand back, J gave a proud smirk to Wade as he swapped focus to her chest pocket, which was full of several pens.
"That's a lotta pens." Wade said aloud, prompting his friends to eye J's filled pocket as she glanced to it.
"Ah, yes. JCJenson's very own branded pens! Picked up a few from that military base before we left." Pulling one out, she playfully pressed the clicking button on the top of the pen several times as she explained her strange bundle of writing utensils. "You're probably wondering why I have so many, let's just say I was... done in by more than just that kid's laser gun I mentioned earlier. Thought I'd take notes from her." While gazing at the pens, one of J's eyes shifted to a triangle with an exclamation symbol, text under it reading, "PRIOR HAZARD"
Looking at the weaponized pen J was implying with stunned eyes, Wade laughed nervously as he replied to his fellow murder drone. "Ah, that sounds... intimidating."
"Indeed it does, I'd almost regret bringing them with me after that incident. But, on the bright side," Tossing a few of her pens to Wade, J continued speaking once he caught them all. "it helps me come up with better methods of attack. You may find they come in handy in that place yourself."
Looking at one of the branded pens, Wade nodded in agreement before putting them in his own front pocket. "I'll make sure they're put to good use, J."
"I'm sure you will." J replied just before an alarm sounded through the troop bay, several soldiers moving about in preparations for the imminent fight outside.
"Get set, everyone! We're going in hot real shortly!" Sergeant Thomas declared as he sat himself on one of the wall seats, Wade looking to Tina as she began to return to her post.
"Welp, no time to lose." Giving a quick kiss to Wade, she spoke to him once more. "Watch my back, love."
Wade nodded to her as she made her way back into the cockpit, then turned to J as she addressed the group. "Alright, get yourselves seated, we're gonna have hostiles coming at us any second!" Looking to Wade and F, she gave her orders to them. "F, Mr. Carter, you'll watch the sides of the ship once we open the bay doors! I'll fly as escort outside!"
"Understood J!" F said as she and Wade gave nods of agreement to their fellow disassembly drone, who made her way to the left bay door to await its opening.
Turning off the autopilot, Tina took hold of the steering handles before witnessing the sight ahead: A massive battlefront, two of the presumed three corporate starships Mr. Jenson dispatched hovering over the large research tower. Several aircraft zoomed about, some pursuing one another as they clashed in fast dogfights above the city. Near the large tower, Tina could also spot small specks flying about, catching a faint gleam of yellow shining at her. She didn't need to guess what those objects were as she braced herself with a deep breath for her flight, knowing that the lives of dozens of soldiers, as well as those of Wade and his friends, were now in her hands.
Stepping near the large door, Wade held onto a handle so as to brace himself for the force of the wind outside. Looking to the other door, Wade saw F in a similar posture to him, the warrior drone gazing to him as she spoke. "Hang onto the handles, Wade! Give them Hell!" Wade nodded without a word as he prepared a variant of laser cannon from his free left hand: A barrel with a silver tip and lights at its sides, a scope at it's top, a small cylindrical tank lit in yellow underneath. Looking upon its design, Wade's visor scanned the weapon in an instant before highlighting it as a "PULSE BLASTER".
Wade's attention was brought to the area outside as the large bay door opened up, revealing part of the battle-ridden cityscape beyond. Incredibly, most of the buildings were well intact, with only a select few sporting a trail of smoke or a fire atop them. Flying in the sky were a few more dropships, the escort squadrons breaking away forward to engage the hostile craft ahead of the transports. Wade could hear the whir of bullets and laser blasts as the skirmish above San Francisco commenced.
With F's bay door open, J deployed her wings before zooming out of the ship, flying over it before forming up right above the dorsal turret, which was slowly turning to take aim at an incoming fighter. The corporate plane looked quite strange for a terrestrial aircraft, sporting a bubble window over the usual fuselage with the window at the top. Its wings were swept forward, curving downward with a set of missile racks under them. The tips of the plane wielded a set of hybrid weapons, appearing to be a blend of a machine gun and a laser cannon. The back end of the ship sloped upward, sporting a pair of dorsal fins along with a longer one going downwards.
Tina kept her grip firm on the flight handles as she saw a laser beam fire at the approaching enemy plane, which failed to evade as it was struck by the yellow death energy. Seeing another fighter coming at her, Tina prepared to move the ship to her left as she quickly tapped a button on the controls, speaking to the gunner in the bubble turret via the speaker panel. "Gunner, keep watch for any bogeys, missiles and fighters!"
"You got it!" The officer replied as he held the trigger grips firmly, moving them along as he took aim at the second plane zooming at them. It fired a few missiles as the gunner shot at it, scoring several clean hits to its hull as it began to dive erratically in a trail of smoke. As for the missiles, J took aim with two laser guns before firing, the pair of beams slicing the projectiles into a fiery blaze.
On Wade's end, he was pointing his blaster attachment at another incoming fighter, which only managed to fire one missile before being chased off by a friendly A-20 plane. Wade fired a flurry of yellow bolts of energy at the approaching missile, several shots lighting missiles into flames before it could hit. The former worker drone wasn't given a moment's peace as yet another fighter dove at the dropship, its wing guns lighting up as it began to fire its lasers. Acting quickly, Wade flew out, J forming up with him as the two extended their wings. The murder drones' attempt at defending their ship was surprisingly successful, the two holding back the hot blasts of energy with their wings.
As the hostile craft broke off, J spoke aloud to Wade. "Good work, keep it up!" Wade nodded without a word as he flew back inside, taking hold of the railing again so he could continue holding off the hostiles outside.
In the cockpit, Tina flew the ship upwards, dodging an incoming plane that was falling to the city in flames. Steadying the ship, Tina kept watch for more hostiles, seeing that the Administrator's tower ahead was a bit closer, as were the disassembly drones fighting around it. Flying downwards, Tina leveled the ship out as she heard the voice of the Lapu Lapu's comm officer on the radio. "We should be a third of the way there, hold on out there!"
Readying her missile launcher, F took aim at an incoming fighter, getting a swift lock before firing. Two projectiles flew at the target plane, its pilot clearly on alert as it broke away from the Chameleon in its attempts to evade. Spotting another ship, F took aim at it, firing three missiles at the hostile craft. To her concern, the craft refused to brake away, sending its own trio of missiles before starting to break away. As the plane was struck by her dispatched arsenal, F readied a laser cannon before firing at the lethal trails of death. With help from J outside, the weapons were destroyed, though one did get dangerously close as it was lit aflame, the shockwave shaking the aircraft violently as it tilted to the right slightly.
Tina grunted as she tried to stabilize the ship, almost yelping as she spotted another aircraft, diving down on her with a hail of bullets. Metal pangs sounded from the damage taken by the weapons fire as the dorsal turret returned the favor, striking the plane on its nose as it began to fall to the city. Tina roared in immense effort as she jerked the ship upward, just barely dodging the smoking fighter as it passed over them.
Unbothered by the rough flying, Wade took aim at another fighter, a flurry of laser bolts coming at it as a few struck the craft's hull. The disassembly drone grinned in satisfaction as the fighter dove down in flames, crashing into another hostile plane in a bright ball of fire and metal scraps.
"That's some fine shootin', Wade! HAHA!" Duncan declared with a hearty laugh, a few of the other troopers cheering with him as they admired Wade's efforts. The miner drone smiled in appreciation as he kept his gaze towards the fighting outside, Cyn's large tower creeping into his view at the side of the dropship.
His brief break was interrupted as he heard a beep from his visor, noticing a call coming from J. Preparing a radio from his free hand, he answered his fellow disassembly drone. "What's up, J?"
"We're about to make our descent to the landing pads, I need you and F to help me fight off some of these rogues!" J ordered firmly as Wade looked to F, the warrior lady still focused on the enemy forces in the sky.
"F, might wanna get someone else to provide cover fire, we're heading out to help J!" Wade called out, F turning to acknowledge his news as she responded with a nod.
"Got it!" With that, she flew out of the dropship, Wade following after as he prepared for some more aerial combat. Wade swooped out of the ship with a roll, readying a sword blade in place of his other hand as he observed the sky battle around him and Tina's ship. Dozens of disassembly drones were spread out across the sky, many clashing their metal weapons or shooting at one another with a gun attachment of some sort.
It felt like the disassembly drones were having a massive civil war of sorts to Wade, with the clangs of swords, deathly cries of a few of the drones, and the faint spillage of oil from the injured ones, there was almost no mercy between the disassembly drones as they fought their former comrades in a mass deathmatch.
Returning his focus back to the mission, Wade searched for J and F, spotting them chatting over the transport. Flying over, Wade received some additional words from J on their goals. "Alright, we're gonna split up. F, you take the left wing of dropships, keep those traitors off their backs. Wade, you watch Mrs. Tina's ship and her escorts. I'll hold the right side."
"Won't be a problem, J. Those ships will make it to that pad down there, or I ain't a Carter!" Wade replied as he flew ahead of the dropship, the drone ladies splitting up to assist the other ships on their flight to the landing pad at the lower neck of the tower.
Speaking of the large tower, Wade observed the large structure. The top of the building had a sleek 'head' section, a curving window built into the face of it. Wade guessed it must've been some sort of observatory station. Going down, the tower slowly extended out as it sloped downwards, shiny grey panels going downwards past the landing pad. Beyond that, the panels continued down until reaching the city grounds below, a oval-shaped foundation sitting as the base of the tower.
His examination of the tower was disturbed as he spotted a descending VTOL craft, its markings showing its allegiance to the company to Wade's eyes. The design felt like a mix between the Chameleon and the Yellowjacket, sporting a window that went to the ships nose. Below the cockpit area was a small machine gun, slightly swiveling as it prepared to take shots at its target. The main hull had an open storage bay that carried very few people, from what Wade could see, and had a short tail extending out holding two maneuvering thrusters at the tips.
Before it could attack, however, a flurry of missiles struck at it, obliterating the craft into scrap. Glancing behind him, Wade spotted two Yellowjacket VTOLs, both fully manned as they formed up behind Tina's Chameleon.
Seeing that the worry of large aircraft was covered for the most part, Wade returned his focus ahead. His timing was almost perfect as he immediately spotted a hostile disassembly drone flying at Wade, who held his sword up in front of himself in a defensive manner. Flying fast, the drone's single blade clashed with Wades, the former slowing with a flap of their wings as Wade fired his blaster gun. The murder drone's wings took a majority of the damage as they left burn spots on them, Wade flying at his opponent as the two struck each other's blades.
Swapping his gun out for a claw hand, Wade noticed his enemy's nanite tail rising to strike. He didn't allow it to as he grabbed it with his claws, slicing the tail off as he held off the disassembly drone's two swords with his own one. Trying to distract his opponent, Wade struck his rival in the foot with his own tail, the male drone grunting in pain as Wade took his chance. In need of fresh oil, Wade dropped the broken nanite tank before grabbing onto his enemy, cutting one unrestrained arm of the drone off before biting into his head. Unfazed by the drone's cries of pain, Wade readied another claw hand from his sword before impaling the disassembly drone in their chest, ripping their core out before letting their body fall to the ground below.
Crushing the core, Wade looked to see another disassembly drone flying right at his transport. Like a dart, Wade zoomed in front of it, grabbing the unprepared drone with his sharp claws before pulling the arms off. Swiftly, he swapped his claws for pulse cannons before firing at the injured hostile. Wade managed to score a few hits on the drone's chest before they shielded themselves behind their wings. In a desperate attempt to hurt Wade, the drone flew at him in a spin, acting as a living fan-blade with their wings. The former worker drone guarded his form with his own wings, rapid clangs against them signaling the continuous impact.
Upon ceasing their spin attack, the two rivals broke away, Wade's eyes glancing behind him for a second as he heard Nathan call to him. "Wade! Look out!" Seeing his opponent still injured, Wade went at the drone again, grabbing them as he heard the sound of a rocket behind him. Wade turned around and held his enemy in front of him, a missile from the transport striking Cyn's minion as they groaned from the blast. To finish them off, Wade bit into the rival drone, slurping their oil as their visor began to flicker out. Once they passed out from the oil loss, Wade pulled the drone's core out with his claw hand, ending its life with a metal crunch.
Looking to the transport, Wade saw it starting to descend to the landing pad, along with its VTOL escorts. He flew down with them, intent on seeing their successful landing.
Wade's eyes were directed above as he heard the maniacal laughter of two disassembly drones, a male and a female. The duo came closer, their visors bearing yellow 'X's and their mouths wide with sharp teeth.
With careful grabbing, Wade pulled out one of his branded pens before throwing it with all of his might, the two disassembly drones splitting up ever so slightly as to evade the speeding projectile. To Wade's surprise, the pen hit its target, piercing the glass casing of the female murder drone's nanite tank as it spewed out glowing yellow acid. Some of that acid managed to splash onto the other drone, who yelped from the burning pain as he hovered in place to get the acid nanites off.
Readying a pair of swords, Wade and his uninjured rival struck at each other, merely locking their blades as they began to fight. Holding back the hostile bot, Wade pushed the murder drone off of him before taking a swing, commencing a flurry of fast swings and panging of metal weapons. Eventually, the duel climaxed as Wade struck at his opponent's arm, partially disarming her before kicking her through the air. Flying over, Wade and the disassembly drone were now on the opposite side of the dropship as they continued to fight. Still disarmed, the murder drone held her one blade up as she blocked another attack from Wade, the blades clashing violently.
Pulling one sword away, Wade prepared to cut down the enemy drone, but slowed as he saw her nanite tail shooting up at him. The former worker drone narrowly dodged the attack by no more than inches as he moved his head to the side, swinging his blade up to cut the tail off. Bringing his own to bear, Wade struck the wounded arm with his own tail, trying to slow its regeneration speed. Preparing to strike down the hostile drone, Wade was stopped as he was grabbed onto by the other murder drone, who took hold of his free arm in order to restrain him. The female disassembly drone added to her opponent's struggle by biting into his arm, Wade yelping as he tried and failed to hold her in place.
Now free from his grip, the two drones took hold of Wade's arms, intent on tearing him into pieces in the air. Wade grunted ferociously as he tried to pull back his arms, hoping to free himself before losing his weaponized appendages. He didn't have to worry for long as two missiles came at the enemy drones, blasting them both off of Wade as he glanced to see who shot the savior projectiles. Duncan pumped his free fist in the air as he silently cheered on his ally, who looked back to focus on his opponents.
With the two disassembly drones disoriented, Wade readied a pair of laser cannons before firing them, the beams burning into the injured drones and eliciting pained cries as they were hit. Quickly swapping to a pair of chainsaws, Wade spun at them in an almost manic manner, cutting into the two drones in their failing alertness. Slowing his spin, Wade looked to see his two rival drones falling to the ground below, split into several pieces as oil spilled out after their remains.
Looking back to his transport, Wade saw it nearing the landing pad before hearing a beep from his visor, indicating a call. Swapping one blade for a radio, Wade listened to the transmission being sent by Tina. "Everyone, this is Transport Beta-4G, we're about to be setting down!"
As Wade watched his girlfriend's ship begin to lower onto the large circular platform, he saw the two XB-41s holding position at the sides of the landing pad, two more transports moving downward to land as well. Flying down, Wade watched as Tina touched the ship down onto the landing pad, several Coalition and USN soldiers hopping out onto the large platform in an effort to secure the area. As he neared the pad, Wade flapped his wings to slow himself down before landing, his wings retracting as he prepared his blaster cannon.
Turning to face the transport, Wade walked towards it as several Coalition troops took positions around the main pad, F and J flying down to land beside him. Walking alongside her teammates, J praised their work. "Nice job, you two. The soldiers should be able to hold the line here for the most part, I'll take charge of the squads here. I want both of you to prepare your teams, do what you can to investigate and detain any data you find. And Wade," The drone in question looked to J with a stern face, J gave an encouraging smirk as she spoke to him. "Good hunting in there."
Wade nodded with a smirk of his own as he heard the sound of swooping from above, F and J looking along with him to see a flock of disassembly drones approaching, at least ten of them. Thankfully, these ones didn't show any aggression as they landed, J walking over to one of them as they spoke to her. "J, we're a detachment from the DeLorean. Her captain sent us down to assist you and the troops here."
"So I heard." J replied appreciatively before giving her orders. "Mr. Carter and F here are going to begin their raid on the labs, I want you to hold out here until we're finished with this place."
"We won't let you down, Ma'am!" The friendly murder drone declared eagerly as he and the other drones saluted, Wade observing them all for a moment before returning his attention to the transport ahead.
Wade and F went into a light jog in their traversal to the dropship, Tina stepping out of the ship as she spotted her love. Sharing the gaze, Wade came up to her while F hopped aboard to gather their team up. "You ready for this, honey?"
"I was ready in the pilot's seat, I'm most certainly prepared for this, Wade." Tina replied as she pulled out her pistol, holding it in a guard as Wade wrapped his arm around her.
Looking up to F, she stepped out with several others, Kurtis, Nathan, Gerard, and F's old squad among them. "Okay, my buddies here will be with me. Wade, you'll have Kurtis, Nathan, and Gerard with you."
"Got it, let's stick close in case we run into trouble out here." Wade replied as F gave an acknowledging nod, the two taking point in front of the large team behind them as they all began walking down the mini bridge leading to the entrance door.
As they got almost halfway down the platform, a loud, rising sound shook the group, Wade and Tina looking on in horror as a large energy beam fired up past the bridge. The blast struck one of the corporate cruisers above the tower, its hull burning in a bright blaze of flame and debris as the ship was downed.
"What in blazes was that?!" Duncan exclaimed as he and his teammates backed up slightly, watching the large starship slowly fall to the city below in flames. Concerned about where the blast came from, Wade and F looked to the origin of the blast. The heavy sounds of metal legs touching against the building hinted at an enormous object climbing up the building.
And enormous it was, as Wade and his allies looked on in petrified awe at the rising sight before them. Crawling up past the bridge was a large, four-legged walker mech, big enough to stand atop the bridge. The main body of the walker looked to be some kind of cannon, with a large, roughly cylindrical shape to it all. Along the black body were white armor plates attached around it, with the main weapon barrel being of a silver color. The legs holding the mech up were sharp, and, squinting at it, Wade saw a hint of red within the black internals of the white-armored legs, which had sharp claws at the ends of the 'feet' parts.
The large walker let out a mechanical howl as it stopped climbing, moving slightly in an attempt to come down onto the landing platform. Tina held onto Wade as she observed the metal beast in fear. "What in the devil is that thing?!"
F pulled out her radio, speaking into it for potential intel on their new foe. "F to J, you got anything on this?!"
"That's... not something I recall seeing on the company inventory." J replied uncomfortably as she too observed the large crawler, which hunched down against the building before leaping forward. The platform, be it by sheer luck or miraculous strength on the its part, did not fumble from the impact as the walker landed hard onto it, sending a shaky quake across it. The assault team was trying hard to remain balanced against the sheer force of the walker's landing as they snapped out of their stunned trance.
As Wade and Tina recovered from the shock of the walker's landing, J spoke through the radio once more. "I'll get the DDs to keep this thing distracted, you all try to find a weakness on it!"
"Understood, J!" Wade replied to the speaker on F's hand as he deployed his wings, looking to Tina before speaking to her. "Tina, hop on!"
The pilot drone heeded her boyfriend's call as she hopped upon his back, the two taking flight as F prepared to do the same. Zooming over to the walker, the two examined the closer details of its exterior, not spotting much to go after. Going up to the walker's side, however, Wade saw a potential target: At the left side of the walker was a door hatch, completely sealed so as to prevent threats from entering the walker with ease.
"This looks like a good spot!" Wade declared, glancing behind him to see F flying up next to him. "Let's see if we can make a break in, tear it apart from the inside!"
"That sounds like a good idea!" F replied as she spoke into her radio again. "J, you mind sending a few extra hands? We're gonna need them for our little attack plan here!"
High in the air, J answered her comrade through the speaker. "You'll have it, stand by!" Swapping out her radio for a laser gun, J called out to two of her nearby disassembly drone allies, who were getting ready to pounce onto the walker before J called to them. "You two! Our team's about to try and bring this down, head down there and give 'em a hand!"
"With pleasure, Ma'am!" One drone replied as the other simply laughed lightly, the two zooming down to the walker to assist their allies near it.
Looking back to the walker, J spoke aloud to some of her fellow disassembly drones. "Let's get that beast's attention! Fire at will!"
The horde of drones complied as they all fired their weapons at the walker, lasers, bullets, rockets, and many other munitions striking the sturdy armor of the walker.
Clamping onto the walker with a set of claws, Wade began to cut into the door with a chainsaw hand, F hovering with her weapons ready as the two heard the sound of disassembly drones flying over to them. F turned to them while Wade did his work. "Ma'am, J sent us. We'll help you with whatever you need!"
F responded with a nod. "Get your weapons ready, we're gonna gut this walker!" The two drones returned the gesture as they prepared various weapons, hovering with F as Wade continued cutting into the walker.
"I've... almost got it! Just a minute more, and-" Wade said aloud before being cut off by the walker's bellowing howl, the massive mech lifting upwards as it began to charge up its main weapon.
J watched in anxious anticipation as the walker's barrel began to glow in a brilliant yellow light, the beam charging up again as it prepared to fire at its attackers. "Evade! EVADE!" J warned loudly as the beam fired, a few unfortunate disassembly drones being vaporized by the huge laser as it shot across the sky. Despite her effort to dodge, misfortune followed the victim drone as J cried out in immense pain, her arm having narrowly been caught in the blast and completely disintegrating into vapor. Hovering in place, J held her damaged shoulder, sparks and smoke emitting from the wound as J glared at the beam-walker in renewed rage. Redeploying her laser cannon, she continued firing.
Continuing to saw the door open, Wade laughed victoriously as he nearly finished cutting the hatch off. Getting a bit impatient, Wade ceased his slicing and prepared a second claw hand, pulling at the door in order to tear it off. The sealed hatch tore from the walker with a loud grind of metal, Wade tossing the door away before readying a laser rifle from one of his claws.
"Alright! Let's do this!" Wade declared as he and his three disassembly drone comrades flew inside, entering a small corridor before being blocked off the back of the walker by a hostile murder drone. Taking aim, Wade fired his laser at the enemy, the drone holding their swords up in an attempt to defend themselves. Flying at the drone, Wade clashed his blades with theirs, the two stuck in a deadlock as Tina pulled out her pistol, firing at the drone's head. The distraction elicited a cry of pain from the murder drone before Wade bit into them, sucking in the delicious, warm oil.
Once he was finished, Wade continued on to the back of the walker, F and her allies heading to the front to cause any bit of trouble they could. Reaching the aft end of the walker's internal structure, Wade saw another disassembly drone getting ready to pounce on him and Tina. Quickly readying a shotgun, Wade fired several blasts at the drone as it covered itself under one of its wings. As Wade kept pummeling the murder drone with his shotgun, Tina took aim at their exposed nanite tail, firing at it as the tank broke off. Getting close, Wade reached for the tank with his newly formed hand, ceasing fire as the murder drone began to unshield themself.
Wade didn't waste a second as he threw the nanite tank upon the drone's exposure, striking at the drone's face as they yelped in agony. Arming himself with two chainsaws, Wade lunged at his opponent, cutting the hostile drone into many oil-covered pieces.
With the immediate threat dealt with, Wade and Tina backed up to examine the glowing light at the inner wall to their left. The light was coming from what seemed to be a controlled singularity, an exceptionally rare source of power that humanity hadn't learned to contain until the announcement of the Administrator's creation. Given what it was powering, it was safe to say this was a source of energy Cyn used for her fancy toys.
"That must be its power source!" Tina stated firmly, Wade readying a grenade launcher as he prepared to fire.
"Hold on, Tina. This is gonna be nasty!" Wade warned as his girlfriend held on tightly to him, Wade shooting several grenades at the glass protecting the black hole core as it shattered loudly into many shards. After about four or five shots, the singularity collapsed, the walker groaning loudly from the lack of power as the walls of the mech's innards began to creak and pop with smoke.
Noting the imminent danger they were in, Wade readied a radio before yelling into it. "F, get yourself clear! This thing's gonna blow!"
Without waiting for a reply, Wade turned around before flying back the way he came, zooming through the corridor and out the broken door hatch. Ascending upwards, Wade stopped as he hovered in the air, F and her two escorts flying out to him as they all watched the collapsing walker. Sparks began to emit from the legs, their armor plating collapsing in on the dark leg joints as they seemingly began to melt away into ash. The main hull of the walker began to catch flame for a few seconds before exploding in a bright ball of fiery light. Covering their faces, Wade closed his eyes until the light dissipated, then re-opening them to see the results of his crazy act.
The soldiers at the pad, and those among Wade and F's team, cheered and laughed at the incredible sight, the broken remnants of the beam-walker lying flat in a smoky haze and burning flames. Flying down to the platform, Wade and F's team ran over to the quartet of drones as they touched down, Tina hopping off of her boyfriend as she laughed in bewildered excitement.
"Holy shit, Wade! That was insane!" Kurtis exclaimed with a hearty laugh as Nathan added to the congratulatory comments.
"Yeah, you guys scrapped that thing REAL good! Haha!"
"Well, I wouldn't have been able to pull that off by myself." Wade replied as he glanced to Tina, then F and the two escort drones as the former spoke to him.
"You can say that again, honey. I can't believe we pulled that off!" The pilot drone let out a laugh as she patted Wade's arm, the former worker drone sharing the amusement as they both heard the high swooping of wings. Looking up, the couple saw J flying down, holding her damaged arm as she touched down with an impressed smirk.
"Well, you both excel at causing a ruckus." The corporate drone said with a smirk as Tina put a hand to her mouth in shock, concerned over J's well-being.
"J, your arm! Are you alright?" Tina asked worriedly as J responded sheepishly.
"Uh-huh. I'll be fine, just need some oil to patch this up." Pulling out a canteen, J held out the bottle for someone to help her open it. Wade assisted her without a word as he unscrewed the lid, allowing J to drink up some of the liquid drone blood inside. Once she was done, Wade helped her seal the bottle before she put it away. "But besides that, you did an incredible job out here. I'd say it's a sort of... happy accident that you were converted."
Wade gave a shaky laugh as he replied to J's compliment. "Well, I hope those clones I've been hearing about carry the same wills, J. We'll need it."
J gave a nod of agreement as her arm began to regenerate, the group looking pleased at her recovery as Duncan spoke up in amusement. "Hah, now THAT'S making me regret not comin' along with Felicity here when she left!"
"Yeah, wish they had something like that for us fleshbags." Carlos added humorously, J chuckling at the soldier as she replied to the comments.
"Perhaps you will, Sir. Maybe one day." Then, looking to the large laboratory ahead, J continued a bit more sternly. "But if we want that to come true, we should get inside that place and start looking for such research."
Wade nodded in affirmation as he remembered the original plan. "Right, we should get going. You're gonna hold the line here, J?"
"Correct, I may head out with the ship that carries whatever vital materials you get from in there. That is, if you find any." The corporate drone replied before taking back to the air, preparing to continue her duty outside. "Good luck, and like I told you, Wade. Do what you will with Halloway, just make sure that program is stopped." With that, J flew into the air, heading back to the dropships as Wade and his group watched her depart.
Looking to his friends, Wade concluded their sightseeing break. "Alright, no time to lose. Let's go." The group collectively nodded to the former worker drone as he took the lead, Tina, F and the rest following close behind as they ran to the nearby doorway to the inner sanctuary of Cyn's fortress.

I’ll try to be as concise as possible. My dad has had some sort of mental health problem for as long as I’ve known him, but he’s never gotten treatment for it so he hasn’t seen anyone who could identify it. Even if I can’t identify it, I’d appreciate help with how I should handle his deterioration, especially navigating his delusions.
Some important info to know is that he was born in Iraq in the late 60’s and has experienced a fair amount of trauma from the war. He also has difficulties communicating because of language barriers. He is currently 56.
My family tells me that before I knew my father he was incredibly social, loved partying, was an extremely hard worker and had ambitions. When he was 33, a few years after immigrating to the US, he suffered a work injury where a heavy object fell on his head/neck. According to him, that was when he began having medical problems that would leave him unable to work for the rest of his life. This is coincidentally right before he started having major personality changes. I don’t know whether he actually suffered an injury to the head, because he’s never been diagnosed with a medical condition as a result from it. He wasn’t able to receive workers comp because he couldn’t prove that he was injured. He reports that since he was injured, he’s suffered from back and neck pain, numbness, and weakness of limbs. He sees a chiropractor 2-3x a week and he reports that he has short term relief from his symptoms after the sessions.
After his injury, he claimed that he was in too much pain to work and he took on a stay-at-home dad role. From my memories and what I can gather from home videos, he was still happy and social, and he really enjoyed taking care of me. But around when he was 36 and I was 4, he began having major personality shifts that would persist to today. Bouts of explosive anger and physical abuse. Not leaving the house. Becoming more obsessive about his interests. For example, he always cared about being tidy, but he was now scrubbing surfaces for hours with harsh chemicals, causing him actual bodily harm. He’s always loved music, but he’ll compile and organize his music for days, pulling all-nighters. He stopped parenting me. He began hating his loved ones, believing that they were evil and conspiring against him. He started having delusions. When I was 8 he was convinced that the FBI was after our family. He would tell me that he was Jesus. He started having on and off suicidality. Head banging against the wall. He’d lay in bed for the whole day and claim that his limbs were “paralyzed” from his injury. At this point he completely cut himself off from his siblings. He never attended family events or any of my graduations. He isn’t always chaotic, but it seems like he goes through cycles of mania. Around this time he had a head MRI scan, and my mom tells me that a doctor pulled her aside and told her that my dad’s frontal lobe was “shrunken”.
I could go on, but flash forward to today and he is in the same shape at age 56. His obsessions shift over time. For the past few years he’s been a kleptomaniac. His speech is disorganized and he has a poor understanding of social norms. I’ve always chalked that up to language barriers, but I’ve been more convinced that it’s not just that. For example, he brought his prescription medication to the new neighbors so that they’d know that he was honest and able to be trusted.
He’s been having grander delusions lately, some having to do with his neighbors, and I worry for him. I don’t know how to respond when he’s telling me about his delusions. I’m a psych grad student and I feel that he is definitely struggling with something, but I don’t have the expertise that this situation needs. I’ve also always wondered if what he has is something that could be passed to be genetically. If you’ve read this far I really appreciate it. I’m happy to answer any questions. Thanks in advance.

In the small town of Wolf's Hollow, the residents whispered of ancient secrets hidden in the dense, shadowy forests. Legends spoke of werewolves, but not the kind that transformed under the pull of the full moon. No, these werewolves could shift their forms at will, and they came in two distinct kinds: the benevolent Protectors and the malevolent Ravagers.
For centuries, the myth of the full moon had been spread by the Protectors to mask their true nature and keep the balance of power hidden from humanity. But now, the truth was on the brink of being exposed.
Draco had always felt a strange connection to the forest, a pull he couldn't explain. His grandmother, known in the town as a wise old herbalist, had entrusted him to her best friend Ahmad when Draco was just seven months old. Ahmad, a man of great wisdom and skill, had raised Draco, teaching him diplomacy, martial arts, self-defense, and all the science known to the world at that time. Draco had grown up believing his real family had died in an accident, knowing nothing of his true heritage.
One night, while wandering the outskirts of the forest, Draco heard a low growl. He turned to see a pair of glowing eyes watching him from the shadows. Instead of running, he felt an odd sense of calm. The eyes belonged to a large, silver-furred wolf, its demeanor gentle yet powerful. As it stepped into the moonlight, its form shimmered, and in a heartbeat, the wolf transformed into a tall man with kind eyes and an air of ancient wisdom.
"Do not be afraid," he said softly. "I am Lucian, one of the Protectors. You are in danger, Draco. The Ravagers have discovered who you are."
"Who I am?" Draco repeated, his voice trembling. "What do you mean?"
Lucian explained that Draco was a descendant of a long line of Protectors, and his latent abilities were beginning to awaken. The Ravagers, sensing his emerging power, sought to corrupt or destroy him to tip the balance in their favor.
As if on cue, a chilling howl echoed through the night. Lucian's expression darkened. "They're coming. We must move quickly."
They ran deeper into the forest, the howls growing louder and more menacing. Draco's heart pounded in his chest as they reached a hidden glade, illuminated by the faint glow of bioluminescent plants. Here, Lucian stopped and turned to face him.
"Draco, you have the power to choose your path," he said urgently. "You can embrace your heritage as a Protector and help us defend Wolf's Hollow, or you can walk away and let the Ravagers bring chaos and destruction."
Before he could respond, the Ravagers burst into the glade. Leading them was Kieran, a dark-haired werewolf with a cruel smile. His followers, all in wolf form, surrounded Lucian and Draco, their eyes gleaming with malice.
"So, the lost son of the Protectors has finally surfaced," Kieran sneered. "Join us, Draco. Embrace your true nature. Why fight for a town that would never accept you if they knew what you really are?"
Draco's mind raced. He looked at Lucian, then at Kieran, and finally back at the town he had called home his entire life. The teachings of Ahmad echoed in his ears, tales of heroism and sacrifice.
With a deep breath, Draco stepped forward, his eyes meeting Kieran's. "I choose to protect," he said firmly, feeling a surge of power within him.
Kieran's smile faded, replaced by a snarl. "So be it," he growled.
The battle was fierce, but with Lucian by his side, Draco fought with a newfound strength. He felt his body shifting, the power of the Protector lineage coursing through his veins. In the end, the Ravagers retreated, vowing to return.
Breathing heavily, Draco turned to Lucian. "This is only the beginning, isn't it?"
Lucian nodded. "Yes, but together, we can ensure that the light of the Protectors never fades."
And so, under the stars, with the myth of the full moon shattered, Draco embraced his destiny as a Protector of Wolf's Hollow, ready to face whatever darkness lay ahead.
After their narrow escape from the Ravagers, Draco and Lucian sought refuge in the hidden hideout of the Protectors. Tucked away deep within the heart of the forest, it was a sanctuary cloaked in secrecy, where the light of civilization dared not penetrate. Here, amidst the shadows and whispers of the trees, they hoped to regroup and plan their next move.
As they entered the dimly lit chamber, Draco couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. He scanned the room, his senses on high alert, until his gaze settled on a darkened corner where the light of the lamp failed to reach. Two red eyes gleamed from the darkness, and a voice, deep and resonant, echoed through the room.
"Are you ready to learn the ways of the Protectors?"
Draco nodded, his curiosity piqued. As the figure emerged from the shadows, he recognized the commanding presence of Ahmad, the Alpha werewolf and brother of Draco's late mother. Ahmad's age was evident in the lines etched upon his weathered face, a testament to the countless battles he had fought and the wisdom he had gained over the years.
For centuries, the power of Alpha had been passed down through generations, but now, as Ahmad explained, Draco stood on the cusp of something unprecedented. A true Alpha, born not from lineage but from sheer will and strength of character, destined to lead the Protectors into a new era.
Draco's training intensified under Ahmad's guidance. For fourteen years, he honed his skills, mastering the art of combat and strategy, all the while relentlessly pursuing the Ravagers who threatened their existence. With each victory, Draco felt the power within him grow, a primal force waiting to be unleashed.
But as Draco's strength grew, so did the desperation of their enemies. Kieran, the cunning leader of the Ravagers, launched a relentless assault, targeting Ahmad in a brazen attempt to cripple the Protectors. In a fierce battle that shook the very foundations of their hideout, Kieran struck a fatal blow, leaving Ahmad gravely wounded.
As Ahmad lay dying in Draco's arms, a surge of energy pulsed through him, a force unlike anything he had ever felt before. It was then that he realized the truth: the power of Alpha was not bound by bloodline but by destiny, and Ahmad had chosen Draco as his successor.
With his last breath, Ahmad passed on his Alpha powers to Draco, infusing him with the strength and authority of a True Alpha. In that moment, Draco transcended his mortal limitations, his spirit ascending to a higher plane of existence.
With Ahmad's legacy coursing through his veins, Draco confronted Kieran with a newfound determination. Their final battle raged on, a clash of titans that echoed through the forest, until at last, Draco emerged victorious, his enemies vanquished and his destiny fulfilled.
As the new Supreme Alpha, Draco stood tall amidst the ruins of their battleground, his voice resonating with power as he commanded the loyalty of all werewolves who pledged allegiance to the Protectors. With Ahmad's guidance and Lucian's unwavering support, he would lead his pack into a future filled with hope and unity, a beacon of light in the darkness that threatened to consume them all.
And so, with the rise of the Supreme Alpha, the legend of Draco Al Dragoon was born, a symbol of strength, courage, and the indomitable spirit of the Protectors. In the annals of history, his name would be etched in stone, a testament to the enduring power of the human will to defy fate and forge a path toward a brighter tomorrow.
Long before the time of Draco Al Dragoon, there existed a legendary figure whose name was whispered in awe and reverence: Abdul Mateen, the Holy Monarch. In an age shrouded in darkness and chaos, he rose from humble beginnings to become a beacon of hope for his people.
Abdul Mateen was born into a world torn apart by war and strife. His homeland, known as Draconia, was besieged by darkness, its lands ruled by fear and tyranny. From a young age, Abdul Mateen witnessed the suffering of his people, the oppression and injustice that plagued their lives.
Driven by a deep sense of justice and righteousness, Abdul Mateen vowed to bring an end to the reign of evil that held his land captive. With unwavering determination and boundless courage, he embarked on a quest to unite the scattered tribes of Draconia under his banner, rallying them to fight for freedom and liberation.
Through countless battles and trials, Abdul Mateen proved himself to be a formidable warrior and a wise leader. His charisma and conviction inspired legions to join his cause, swelling his ranks with warriors from all walks of life. Together, they marched against the forces of darkness, confronting evil wherever it lurked and vanquishing it with righteous fury.
But Abdul Mateen's quest for justice did not end with the defeat of his enemies. With victory within his grasp, he ascended to the throne as the Holy Monarch of Draconia, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity for his people. Under his rule, the land flourished, its people united in purpose and harmony.
Yet, peace was not to last. In the shadows, a new threat loomed, a sinister force bent on revenge and destruction. A beta werewolf, descended from the lineage of Keiran, harbored a deep-seated hatred for Abdul Mateen and his legacy. In a cowardly act of treachery, he struck down the Holy Monarch, ending his life and plunging Draconia into mourning.
But even in death, Abdul Mateen's spirit endured, his legacy living on in the hearts of his people. His sacrifice became a rallying cry for justice and freedom, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of hope would never be extinguished.
And so, as the ages passed and new heroes arose, the legend of Abdul Mateen lived on, a testament to the power of courage, compassion, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to stand against the tide of darkness and forge a path toward a brighter tomorrow.
As the empire of Draconia crumbled in the wake of Abdul Mateen's death, chaos engulfed the land, leaving it vulnerable to the machinations of the Ravagers who sought to claim the throne for themselves. But amidst the turmoil, a glimmer of hope emerged from the ashes of despair.
In the sacred texts known as the Gospel of Abdul Mateen, a prophecy foretold of a Holy Monarch who would rise to lead the people in their darkest hour. Descended from the noble lineage of the legendary monarch himself, this chosen one would wield the power of a super strong Alpha, feared by all who dared to oppose him.
For generations, the Protectors guarded the teachings of the Gospel, keeping the prophecy alive through their unwavering faith and dedication. They knew that one day, the chosen one would emerge to fulfill his destiny and restore balance to the land.
And so, as the dark ages threatened to descend once more, the Protectors remained vigilant, their faith unshaken by the encroaching shadows. They knew that the darkness could only prevail if the people turned away from the worship and remembrance of the divine.
As whispers of unrest echoed through the land and the Ravagers grew bolder in their ambitions, the stage was set for the arrival of the chosen one, the Holy Monarch who would rise to reclaim his birthright and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for Draconia.
But his path would not be easy, for the forces of darkness would stop at nothing to thwart his destiny. Only through courage, faith, and unwavering determination would the chosen one overcome the trials that lay ahead and fulfill the prophecy of Abdul Mateen, the Holy Monarch of legend.
In the sprawling land of Draconia, a land rich with diverse ecosystems ranging from the towering mountains in the north to the vast plains, dense forests, scorching deserts, and boundless oceans, a new chapter of darkness was about to unfold.
Centuries had passed since Draco, the immortal True Alpha, had vanquished Kieran, the malevolent leader of the Ravagers. After the battle, Draco had retreated into the deep recesses of the northern mountains, choosing solitude over the limelight, leaving the Protectors to continue their noble mission. Over time, Draco's legend faded into mere folklore among the Protectors, and his name was whispered only in tales of old.
The northern mountains, a region long believed to be inhospitable and devoid of life, held secrets that few in Draconia could fathom. Hidden within their massive peaks lived the descendants of Azma Al Dragoon, a Holy Monarch akin to Abdul Mateen. Unlike Abdul Mateen's empire, which spanned the east, west, and south, Azma's dominion was confined to the north, as decreed by divine command. Her lineage was blessed with the extraordinary gift of voice command over all living beings, including dragons, unicorns, and even vampires.
In the present day, the Al Dragoon empire was ruled by the grandson of Draco's younger sister. Unlike his forebears, this monarch was neither pious nor righteous. He harbored ambitions that defied the sacred Gospel of Azma, which sternly warned against expanding the empire beyond the northern mountains. Driven by arrogance and a misguided sense of superiority due to his high-altitude dominion, he decided to conquer all of Draconia.
With the power of voice command, he enslaved the Protectors, forcing them to turn against their own. The once-guardians of peace and justice became unwilling instruments of tyranny, carrying out the young monarch's brutal campaign. In a mere seven months, the entirety of Draconia fell under his iron fist, its diverse landscapes unified under a reign of fear and oppression.
As the flames of conquest spread across the land, the ancient prophecies of Abdul Mateen and the Gospel of Azma weighed heavily on the hearts of the oppressed. The true believers whispered of a destined hero who would rise to restore balance and justice. The legend of Draco, the True Alpha, once a fading memory, began to rekindle in the hearts of those who still held hope.
Deep within the northern mountains, Draco stirred from his long isolation, sensing the turmoil and suffering that plagued Draconia. The time had come for the prophecy to be fulfilled, for the Holy Monarch to rise again and lead the people out of darkness. Draco, the immortal protector, would reclaim his legacy and confront the usurper who had dared to defy the divine decrees.
With the land of Draconia on the brink of an all-encompassing darkness, a new chapter of legend was about to begin, one that would see the return of a forgotten hero and the fulfillment of a destiny written in the stars.
In the quiet seclusion of the northern mountains, Draco grappled with his newfound powers and the immense responsibility they carried. He feared that the voice command, a power capable of influencing all living beings, might corrupt him and turn his strength against the very people he sought to protect. In his despair, Draco prayed fervently to God, seeking guidance and reassurance. For days, he prayed without rest, his pleas met with silence. Exhausted and weary, he finally succumbed to sleep.
In his dreams, Draco found himself in a tranquil garden, surrounded by lush greenery and ripened fruits. As he enjoyed the serenity, a divine light enveloped the sky, and a powerful voice resonated through the air. "Go to the house of the late Ahmad," it commanded. "In the basement, you will find a scroll that will reveal the truth."
Awakening with newfound purpose, Draco journeyed to the old, abandoned home of Ahmad, the man who had raised him and trained him. In the basement, he discovered a hidden scroll. With trembling hands, he unrolled the ancient parchment and began to read.
"Dear Draco,
This is your uncle Ahmad. Yes, I am your mother's brother. Your father did not die in an accident. Your grandmother entrusted me with you because you are the son of Malik Al Dragoon and an Alpha werewolf, my sister. You are a hybrid, possessing the voice command as a descendant of Azma Al Dragoon and Abdul Mateen. Your strong aura signified you as a true Alpha, but your grandmother sealed your voice command to prevent a werewolf from ruling the Al Dragoon empire.
Now, you are the Supreme Alpha, the werewolf promised by God to become the Holy Monarch. To claim your voice command, you must venture to the maze of the mountains at the start of the Northern range.
With love and faith,
Ahmad"
Determined to fulfill his destiny, Draco set off for the maze of the mountains. The journey was perilous, but Draco's resolve was unwavering. He navigated the labyrinthine paths with skill and determination, eventually arriving at the heart of the maze, where he encountered a formidable black dragon known as Golden Fury, the mightiest of all Draconian creatures.
The battle was fierce and brutal. Draco fought valiantly, sustaining severe injuries, but his strength as the Supreme Alpha allowed him to heal rapidly. Summoning his inner power, he finally vanquished the dragon. As the beast lay defeated, Draco approached a glowing glass bottle. When he opened it, a brilliant light surged into his throat, causing him to choke and collapse.
In a dreamlike state, Draco found himself face to face with the Emperor of Al Dragoon. The emperor's eyes burned with hatred as he declared, "I'll find and kill you. You now possess the voice command, so I can't control you, but I'll find and kill you."
Draco awoke with a start, his resolve hardened. He journeyed to the town of the Protectors and, with a mighty roar, summoned them. The Protectors, now a formidable force of 150,000 strong, ceased their activities and gathered around him. Their leader, Ameen, approached, awestruck.
"Who are you?" Ameen asked, his voice trembling with reverence.
"I am Draco," he declared, "the True Alpha and descendant of Abdul Mateen and Azma Al Dragoon."
The Protectors fell to their knees, apologizing for their actions under the influence of the voice command.
"Do not apologize," Draco said, his voice strong and compassionate. "It was not you. It was the voice command."
Ameen, filled with awe and respect, responded, "We all thought you were a myth. We never expected to see you in our lifetime."
Draco nodded, understanding the weight of their words. "Myths become reality in times of great need," he said. "Now, we must prepare. The time has come to overthrow the tyrant emperor."
That night, the Protectors held a grand feast in honor of Draco. They celebrated his return and pledged their loyalty to his cause. With a vast army at his command, Draco began to devise a strategy to take down the usurper who had plunged Draconia into darkness. The prophecy of the Holy Monarch was unfolding, and the final battle for Draconia's future was about to begin.
As the Protectors feasted in honor of Draco's return, a palpable sense of hope and determination filled the air. Draco, now fully aware of his destiny, began to outline a comprehensive plan to reclaim Draconia from the tyrant emperor who ruled from the northern mountains.
For days, Draco and his closest advisors, including Ameen, strategized tirelessly. They knew that the emperor's power was formidable, bolstered by the voice command that allowed him to control vast numbers of beings. However, Draco's unique position as a Supreme Alpha with the same voice command powers gave them a fighting chance. His hybrid nature and immortal status made him a beacon of strength and resilience.
One night, as the moon cast a silver glow over the camp, Draco gathered the Protectors. "Our enemy is powerful," he began, his voice steady and commanding, "but he underestimates the strength of our unity and the righteousness of our cause. We fight not just for ourselves, but for all of Draconia."
The Protectors roared in approval, their spirits lifted by Draco's words. With their morale high, they set off towards the northern mountains, moving stealthily through the diverse terrains of Draconia. They traversed forests, crossed plains, and navigated deserts, their numbers growing as more people joined their cause, inspired by the legend of the Holy Monarch.
As they approached the foothills of the northern mountains, Draco called for a halt. It was here, in the shadow of the towering peaks, that they would face their greatest challenge. Draco knew that to defeat the emperor, he would need to draw on every ounce of his strength and the faith of his followers.
The night before the final confrontation, Draco retreated to a secluded spot to pray. He sought divine guidance, asking God for the strength to lead his people and the wisdom to use his powers justly. As he prayed, he felt a warm, comforting presence surround him, a reassurance that he was on the right path.
At dawn, the Protectors assembled at the base of the emperor's fortress, a massive stronghold carved into the mountainside. Draco stood at the forefront, his presence commanding and inspiring. With a roar that echoed through the mountains, he led the charge.
The battle was fierce and intense. The Protectors fought valiantly, their determination fueled by the righteousness of their cause. Draco, with his voice command and supreme alpha abilities, was a force to be reckoned with. He called forth dragons, unicorns, and other creatures, rallying them to their side.
Amidst the chaos, Draco faced the emperor in a final showdown. The emperor, confident in his power, sneered at Draco. "You think you can defeat me? I am the ruler of Draconia!"
Draco's eyes blazed with determination. "You are a usurper. The true ruler fights for the people, not against them."
The clash between them was monumental. The emperor, though powerful, was no match for Draco's combined strength and the divine favor that guided him. With a final, devastating blow, Draco defeated the emperor, ending his tyrannical reign.
As the emperor fell, the fortress walls seemed to shudder, and the oppressive atmosphere lifted. The Protectors cheered, their victory a testament to their unwavering faith and the fulfillment of the ancient prophecy.
With the emperor's defeat, Draco ascended to his rightful place as the Holy Monarch of Draconia. He pledged to rule with justice, compassion, and humility, honoring the legacy of Abdul Mateen and Azma Al Dragoon. Under his leadership, Draconia began to heal, its people united and hopeful for the future.
Draco's story, once a myth, became a legend etched in the annals of history. The land of Draconia, vast and diverse, thrived under his reign, a beacon of peace and prosperity in a world that had known too much darkness. And so, the prophecy was fulfilled, and the Holy Monarch brought light to Draconia once more.
In the years following his victory over the tyrant emperor, Draco ruled Draconia with wisdom and justice. His marriage to Alina brought him great joy, and together they had children who, to Draco's surprise, were entirely human. Puzzled, Draco turned to God for answers, praying fervently until one night, a divine light filled his dreams.
"Draco, my faithful servant," the voice of God spoke, "your children do not possess your powers because they do not need them. Your lineage has fulfilled its purpose, bringing peace and justice to Draconia. Your descendants will thrive as normal humans, living lives of love, compassion, and integrity. Their strength lies not in supernatural abilities, but in the goodness of their hearts. In due time, a boy from your firstborn son's line will inherit the powers you possess. Until then, trust in your family's strength and wisdom."
With this divine message, Draco found peace. He understood that his descendants would carry his legacy in their hearts, if not in their abilities. As the years passed, Draco watched his children and grandchildren grow. When Alina and their children aged and passed away, Draco felt the weight of his immortality.
The Protectors, too, began to age and die, their children inheriting their virtues but not their powers. Seeing the natural order of life take its course, Draco decided it was time for a new chapter. He named his firstborn son, a wise and just ruler, as the new monarch of Draconia.
Draco then gathered all the supernatural beings of Draconia—dragons, unicorns, vampires, and more—and led them to a vast underground cave, twice the size of Draconia itself. This hidden sanctuary became their new home, a place where they could live in peace away from the mortal world.
For a thousand years, Draco and the supernatural beings remained hidden. As generations passed, the people of Draconia began to forget about Draco and his legendary deeds. Two thousand years after his disappearance, the people of Draconia, now living in a democracy, revolted against Draco's descendants, seeking independence and self-governance.
By the early 3000s, the memory of Draco had faded into myth. Emerging from his underground sanctuary, Draco observed a changed world. He saw a society that had abandoned faith, turning to atheism and forgetting their divine heritage. Saddened by the state of the world, Draco decided to document his story.
Writing his tale in a book, Draco published it anonymously. The book, filled with the true history of Draconia, the legacy of Abdul Mateen, Azma Al Dragoon, and Draco himself, became a bestseller. People were captivated by the story of the immortal protector and the holy monarchs, though they believed it to be fiction.
Having shared his story with the world, Draco returned to his underground cave, content to live out his days among the supernatural beings. Though the world above had forgotten him, his legacy endured in the hearts of those who read his book.
Draco watched over his descendants from afar, knowing that one day, the prophecy would be fulfilled, and a boy from his firstborn son's line would inherit his powers. Until then, Draco lived peacefully, the eternal guardian of Draconia's true history, and the hope for a future where his legacy would rise again.
Stoic's reign of terror had reached a peak, and the people of Draconia were living in constant fear. Among the oppressed was a young boy named Aman, who had suffered greatly under Stoic's brutal rule. One day, unable to bear the torture any longer, Aman decided to flee, seeking refuge far from Stoic's clutches.
He ran for days, his feet bloodied and his body weakened, until he reached the base of a massive mountain—the forbidden mountain that no one had ever successfully climbed. Desperation fueled his steps as he began the arduous ascent. To his astonishment, he made it to the summit. However, as he stepped into the middle of the top, the ground beneath him gave way. Aman plummeted into the depths, falling for what felt like an eternity before he lost consciousness.
When Aman woke, he found himself in a grand hall, unlike anything he had ever seen. Majestic dragons curled on one side, vampires and werewolves—ancient and frail but kept alive by some mysterious power—stood on another, and orcs loomed nearby. In the center of this hall, sitting upon an imposing throne, was Draco, radiating an aura of timeless power.
Draco's voice echoed through the hall, "What is your name, boy?"
Terrified and disoriented, Aman stammered, "Am I dead? If I am, oh god, forgive me. I never believed in you, but you are merciful. Please forgive me. Before dying, I prayed to you to help me, even though I didn't believe. Please forgive me, as I never sinned except for not believing in you."
Draco's roar shook the hall, "You mere human, I asked for your name, and you dare call me god? I am but a servant of the true God, who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and infinitely merciful. I am not worthy of such a title. Now, tell me your name."
Aman, trembling, replied, "I am Aman."
Draco's eyes narrowed, "What is your full name?"
The boy hesitated before answering, "It's Aman Al Dricon."
The name triggered a suspicion in Draco's mind. Although the name 'Al Dragoon' had been erased from memory by divine decree, 'Al Dricon' was close enough to spark curiosity. Draco turned to his Grand Mage, an ancient and wise figure, and commanded, "Determine his lineage."
As the Grand Mage began to weave his spell, the ceiling of the throne room shone with an ethereal light. A voice, clear and powerful, filled Draco's mind, a voice only he could hear. "Yes, my servant Draco, he is the boy I told you about," said God.
Draco's heart swelled with both awe and responsibility. This boy, Aman, was the fulfillment of the prophecy. He was the descendant promised by God, destined to inherit Draco's powers and lead the people of Draconia out of darkness.
Draco addressed Aman with newfound reverence, "Aman, you are more than you realize. You carry the blood of heroes, of legends. You are destined for greatness, to restore light to this land. Your journey has only just begun."
Draco's intense gaze bore into Aman as he asked, "How is everything upstairs? Tell me about the world above."
Aman, still a bit dazed from his fall and newfound surroundings, took a deep breath and began to recount the horrors of Stoic's rule. He spoke of the relentless oppression, the fear that had gripped the hearts of the people, and the suffering that was now a daily reality. As he spoke, Draco listened intently, his expression growing darker with every word.
When Aman finished, Draco asked, "Are you a werewolf?"
Aman couldn't help but burst into laughter. He laughed so hard that tears formed in the corners of his eyes. "Bro, that's hilarious!" he managed to say between laughs.
Draco's voice thundered through the hall, "Kid! Stop laughing! See who you're talking to. I am Draco Al Dragoon, the Monarch of all the beings of Draconia. Who do you think I am?"
Aman, still giggling, opened his eyes to see Draco undergo a startling transformation. Before him, the most handsome human he had ever seen morphed into a fierce, bloodthirsty white werewolf with glowing red eyes. The sight was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
Aman's laughter stopped abruptly as he took in the transformation. For a moment, he was speechless, his mind racing to process what he was seeing. Then, almost reflexively, he giggled again, albeit nervously this time. "You mean you're the main character of the book I read?"
Draco's eyes narrowed, his red gaze piercing through the boy. "What book?"
Aman, now more cautious but still holding onto a sliver of incredulity, replied, "There was this old book I found in the ruins of a library. It spoke of a great hero named Draco Al Dragoon, who ruled over all beings and protected Draconia from darkness. I thought it was just a story."
Draco's expression softened slightly, recognizing the irony. The tale of his own life had become a forgotten legend, mistaken for mere fiction. He reverted to his human form and stepped closer to Aman, placing a hand on his shoulder. "That story is my life, Aman. And now, you are part of that story. Your destiny is intertwined with mine. Together, we must bring light back to Draconia."
Aman, feeling the weight of Draco's words, nodded solemnly. "What do I need to do?"
Draco smiled, a mix of determination and pride in his eyes. "First, we train. Then, we reclaim our land."
Despite Draco's best efforts to impart his knowledge and skills to Aman, the boy remained a mere human. Try as he might, Aman could not replicate the supernatural abilities of his ancestor.
Draco watched with a mix of frustration and concern as Aman struggled to harness the powers that were his birthright. It was as if fate had played a cruel trick on them both, leaving Aman powerless in the face of the growing darkness.
Despite his lack of supernatural abilities, Aman's determination remained unshaken. He trained tirelessly alongside Draco, honing his skills in combat, strategy, and leadership. Though he may not possess the strength of a werewolf or the command over dragons, Aman possessed something equally valuable—a steadfast resolve and unwavering courage.
As they prepared to confront Stoic and his dark forces, Draco placed his trust in Aman's human ingenuity and resilience. Together, they forged a bond that transcended bloodlines and abilities, united in their quest to bring hope and freedom back to Draconia.
As Draco surveyed the desolate landscape of Draconia, his heart weighed heavy with sorrow and anger. The once vibrant land he had sworn to protect now lay in ruins, its people shackled by the tyranny of Stoic. Determined to confront the oppressor alone, Draco ventured into the heart of the darkness.
Entering the decrepit castle that had once been his own, Draco was met with a chilling sight. Humans, once proud and free, now toiled as slaves under Stoic's watchful eye, their spirits broken and their hope all but extinguished. A towering statue of Stoic, adorned with chains and symbols of power, loomed over the enslaved populace, a cruel mockery of their suffering.
Draco pressed on, his steps echoing through the silent halls until he reached the throne room—the seat of power now tainted by corruption. There, amidst the decay and decay, sat Stoic, oblivious to the looming threat that stood before him.
With a thunderous roar, Stoic commanded his servants to capture the intruder, unaware of the true identity of the figure before him. Draco, bound in chains, met Stoic's gaze with unwavering defiance.
"And who are you to challenge me?" Stoic sneered, his voice dripping with arrogance. "A mere human, nothing more."
In an instant, Draco's form shifted, his human guise melting away to reveal the fearsome visage of a werewolf. His eyes blazed with righteous fury as he faced his adversary.
"What did you say?" Draco growled, his voice reverberating through the chamber. "And you? You dare to proclaim yourself as the 'God of Draconia'? How childish."
Stoic's bravado faltered in the face of Draco's raw power, a flicker of fear betraying his facade of invincibility. In that moment, the balance of power shifted, and the stage was set for a confrontation that would decide the fate of Draconia.
Draco lay on the cold stone floor of his chamber, his body battered and bruised from the fierce battle with Stoic. Despite his immortality, the wounds he bore were a stark reminder of his mortality in the face of such overwhelming darkness.
As he struggled to rise, a blinding flash of light enveloped the room, leaving Draco momentarily disoriented. When the light subsided, he found himself back in the familiar confines of his underground sanctuary. Confusion clouded his mind as he tried to comprehend what had just transpired.
Before Draco could gather his thoughts, a voice, stern and commanding, echoed in his mind. It was the voice of God, unmistakable in its authority and power.
"I never told you to go there," the voice admonished. "You are strong, but not as you were before. Only Aman can defeat him."
Draco's brow furrowed in confusion. "But how?" he asked aloud, though he knew the answer already. Aman, despite being human, possessed a strength and determination that transcended mere physical abilities.
"I will give him the power," came the reply. "You must teach him how to fight."
With a sense of purpose renewed, Draco set about his task. He would train Aman to harness the latent power within him, to wield it with skill and precision against the darkness that threatened to consume them all.
And so, beneath the earth's surface, far from the prying eyes of their enemies, Draco and Aman began their preparations for the ultimate battle. Together, they would rise against Stoic and his forces, united in their quest to reclaim Draconia and restore peace to the land.
As Aman stood before Stoic, the weight of destiny resting heavy on his shoulders, he felt a surge of power unlike anything he had ever known. In that moment, he was no longer just a mere human but the chosen successor to Draco, the Supreme Werewolf and righteous monarch of Draconia.
Stoic, unaware of the transformation that had taken place within Aman, prepared to engage in battle. But before the first blow could be struck, Aman spoke with a commanding voice that echoed through the chamber.
"You should stop," Aman said, his words carrying the weight of authority that came with his newfound power.
To his own surprise, Aman realized that he had inadvertently invoked the voice command, compelling Stoic to halt in his tracks. Stoic, unable to resist the compelling force of Aman's command, froze in place, his defiance momentarily subdued.
"Yes, my Liege," Stoic muttered, his words betraying his unwilling submission to Aman's authority.
Draco, observing from the sidelines, understood the significance of what had just occurred. Aman, with his newfound powers, had surpassed even Draco himself, becoming the true heir to the throne of Draconia.
Aman, still coming to terms with his newfound abilities, turned to Stoic with a mixture of surprise and determination. "Is this your trick, Stoic?" he asked, suspicion lacing his words.
Stoic, shaken by the unexpected turn of events, shook his head. "No," he replied, his voice tinged with both fear and resignation. "I don't know how, but you stopped me."
With a swift and decisive motion, Aman transformed into his werewolf form, his eyes blazing with righteous fury. In one fluid motion, he struck out, severing Stoic's head from his body with a single blow.
As Stoic's lifeless body crumpled to the ground, a wave of relief washed over Draconia. With the defeat of their tyrannical ruler, peace and harmony were restored to the land once more.
And so, under the leadership of Aman, the Supreme Werewolf and righteous monarch, Draconia entered a new era of prosperity and unity, free from the shadow of darkness that had threatened to consume it.
As the dust settled and peace returned to Draconia, Draco stood before Aman, his successor and the new Supreme Alpha. The weight of centuries of duty and responsibility bore heavily upon him, and he knew that the time had come for him to relinquish his powers and embrace the life of a mortal once more.
With a solemn nod, Draco accepted his fate. He had served his people faithfully, but now it was time for him to step aside and allow a new generation to lead. Turning to Aman, Draco spoke with a voice filled with wisdom and resolve.
"It is time for me to pass on the mantle of leadership to you, Aman," Draco said, his words carrying the weight of a lifetime of experience. "You have proven yourself worthy of this responsibility, and I have no doubt that you will lead Draconia with strength and wisdom."
Aman nodded, his eyes filled with determination. He understood the burden that now rested upon his shoulders, but he was ready to embrace the challenge.
But before Draco could fully relinquish his powers, a voice echoed through the chamber, resonating with divine authority. It was the voice of God, speaking directly to Draco.
"There should be only one Supreme Alpha," God declared. "Draco, it is time for you to give me your powers."
Draco bowed his head in acknowledgment. He had known this moment would come eventually, but it still filled him with a sense of solemnity. With a deep breath, he closed his eyes and began to channel the power that had been bestowed upon him so many years ago.

In the sprawling Milky Way galaxy, humanity had risen first to explore and conquer the cosmos. Their empire, the Terran Dominion, spanned multiple solar systems, their technology hundreds of years ahead of any other species and their power had no rival and at the helm of the empire with emperor Marcus Aurelius the 24 emperor known as a wise ruler it was an age of prosperity,peace and culture Over time they watch 5 new species risen slowly among the stars but mankind kept hidden and watch them from afar.these species were the Dravakians, reptilian warriors known for their brute strength; the Sylphar, ethereal beings capable of manipulating energy; the Arachs, a spider-like species with unmatched strategic minds; the Zylor, amphibious tacticians with advanced aquatic technology; the Qorans, insectoid beings with a hive mentality and rapid adaptability; and the T’Kari, shape-shifters who excelled in espionage and sabotage. Among them the Dravakians had better technology than the other 4 so they expendet faster and were the first to rich one colony of Terran Dominion by mistake.yes...a mistake that will haunt them and the entire galaxy for generations to come
Chapter: 1 The beginning On Dravak Prime, the capital city of Zar’gath stood as a testament to the Dravakians' strength and architectural prowess. Towering spires and massive fortresses made of black stone and steel rose from the ground, each structure adorned with the trophies of past victories. The Dravakians had always been a race that respected power and might, and their architecture reflected this ethos.
In the heart of Zar’gath lay the Conclave of Scales, the central seat of Dravakian governance. The Conclave was a vast, circular arena surrounded by tiered seating where the most powerful Dravakians convened to discuss matters of state, war, and honor.
At the center of the Conclave stood the High Warlord Tharok Varn, a towering figure clad in intricately crafted armor that bore the marks of numerous battles. His scales were a deep crimson, signifying his noble lineage and countless victories. Tharok’s eyes, a piercing yellow, scanned the gathered leaders with a mix of authority and expectation.
To his right was Skar’neth, the Chief Tactician, known for his brilliant mind and strategic acumen. Unlike many Dravakians, Skar’neth’s scales were a muted green, a mark of his intellect rather than physical prowess. He was responsible for devising the battle plans that had brought Dravak Prime many victories against both internal and external threats.
On Tharok’s left was Zarana, the War Priestess. Clad in ceremonial armor, her scales shimmered with an iridescent hue, reflecting her role as both a spiritual leader and a warrior. Zarana’s role was to ensure that the Dravakians remained true to their warrior’s code and that their battles were fought with honor. As the leaders took their places, the arena filled with the murmurs of anticipation. The Conclave of Scales was not just a council; it was a spectacle where decisions were often punctuated with displays of strength and combat prowess. Today’s gathering was of particular importance, as it would determine the Dravakians' next move in the galactic dominance.
Tharok Varn raised his hand, calling for silence. "Warriors of Dravak Prime," he began, his voice echoing through the arena, our scouts exploring a new solar system for habitable planets have discovered a colony that is occupied by a new species for now we don't know if that solar system is their home or not but from what information we could gather we came to the conclusion that this species is pacifist and their technology does not surpass our technology.As you know our planets are overpopulated and this system has 4 planets that can be inhabited by us and 6 other planets with an abundance of resources that are vital to our army.Today we gathered here to make a decision on how to proceed to take that system.
Skar’neth stepped forward, his sharp mind already at work.High Warlord,since it is just a smole colony we should strike fast and hard.not only that, we have to take a strong fleet to demonstrate our power.we should conquer the system quickly and leave one of our fleet there.we should conquer the system quickly and leave one of our flotillas there as a fear factor. It will help us in the future in negotiations or even as a vanguard to conquer their home planet if necessary.
The arena buzzed with approval. The Dravakians respected direct action, and Skar’neth’s plan resonated with their warrior ethos.
One of the leaders stood up and asked. don't you think we are moving too fast?we should examine the situation better before making such an important decision.his name was Goru.
Zarana, the War Priestess, raised her voice.Leader Goru, I understand that you are worried about certain aspects, but you also know our traditions and not to mention that we have not met anyone who could face us.
Let us not forget our honor. We must face our enemies head-on and show them the true might of Dravak Prime. Our warriors must be prepared to fight not only with strength but with the spirit of our ancestors.
Tharok Varn nodded, considering the words of his advisors. "We will combine our strengths," he declared. "Skar’neth, prepare the tactical plans for the strikes on the colony.Zarana, rally our warriors and prepare them for the battles to come. We will strike swiftly and decisively.
The leaders of the Conclave pounded their chests in unison, a sign of agreement and solidarity. The Dravakians were ready to unleash their might upon new solar sistemice