Kelly osborne short bob front and back view
Unmatched potential, Chapter 11
2024.05.19 17:16 atra55 Unmatched potential, Chapter 11
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Essemi chapter
The Defender of Virtues was … Well, at least it was capable of moving around, which was rather impressive considering its age. It was built during the Aviel succession crisis, more than a century ago. It was, at the time, a brilliant display of engineering.
To be honest, its sheer size was still impressive, and it was probably better to command it than a smaller, more recent ship. Its shape was a classic example of the later Altirian period, a sort of arrow as the main body, with two smaller one attached to the sides. On the side the artificial gravity considered the “top”, there were building-like structures, resembling a city.
The whole thing looked like it was built for atmospheric flight, which was very much not the case, considering it was more than 800 meters long, and as such would probably fall apart under the forces applied. But it was definitely stylish, even if a little outdated, and still very practical.
There were worse ships to be stuck on for months for sure, and the crew was pretty nice too, barring the exception sitting in front of me. Of course, I was the one who needed to manage Commander Zedbi for the foreseeable future.
“I have come once again to make my complaints heard, Captain.”
“Commander, it’s much too late for me to go back on my decision, even if I wanted to. Complaining now will accomplish nothing except waste everyone’s time.”
“Well, perhaps you should have thought about that before limiting me to bringing only three servants on board. Someone of my status needs at least five, even in special circumstances.”
“Commander, this is a long-term mission. Anyone we bring will be a significant strain on our precious resources. I consider three servants to be more than sufficient for our officers.”
“Yes, I guess you wouldn’t understand who would need more personnel than your mother was ever able to afford. Then again, you only have one butler on a captain’s salary. Guess the Temidian blood runs strong in your family.”
“Enough, Commander. Go back to your post or this conversation will be reported to high command on our return.”
“You wouldn’t dare! They’ll know I’m right!”
Curiously for someone so sure of his righteousness, he still left the bridge, letting me concentrate on the maps of what was known on Terra space. The answer was resoundingly ‘not much’. But we could speculate on what systems would be the potentially juiciest to settle for them, considering what we knew.
I was busy planning the best potential routes for our operation, when the absolute darkness I could see through the glass bay suddenly filled with stars, and the main alarm began blasting.
“We left FTL”, screamed a Licam operating the propulsion system.
“I can see that,” I mumble. “Cut the alarm and send everyone to their combat position. Every officer on the bridge. We need to assess the situation.”
I was already thinking. We were five days of travel away from Earth. We had just encountered an FTL disruption field. What could that mean? Well first of all, the map the sensors were building around us didn’t detect any significant body or hostile vessels nearby, which meant… The disruption field filled a significant part of the system!
For what purpose? It was obvious: traversing it without distortion would take us months. It was a wall. I quickly went over the implications. A disruptor station had to be manned, or at least, maintained. That meant they needed ships travelling for months at sub light speed to resupply these stations! That was quite the commitment to prevent us entry. Fortunately, we could easily turn back to exit the field and go back home, which is exactly what I ordered.
Then, something impossible happened. A ship appeared on the radar, as if it had just exited a jump. But it had done so in the disruption field. Even worse, the gravitational wave detector spiked, like we were now almost right next to the disruptor.
I realized that it was the case: this ship could ignore the disruption field, and as such it had no problem having the disruptor on board.
We began blasting at it with our energy weaponry, to no avail. They were essentially teleporting after each time they fired, always being gone by the time our rays reached their position.
After of few minutes of that pointless exchange of fire, were our weapons never hit and theirs did barely any damage, twelve new signals appeared on the screen coming towards us at a terrifying speed. Missiles! No, the way they maneuvered to escape our point defenses ruled that out. Strike crafts…
The Terrans were hopelessly outmatched in firepower, and elven of the strike crafts were destroyed. But the last one managed to slam in the left “secondary hull”, destroying it almost entirely. We could survive without it, but I doubted that was all the Humans had in stock. We needed to get out now, but how? We were in the middle of a light-hour wide disruption field, that our enemy could somehow ignore! But that gave me an idea. If it didn’t work, we were dead anyway.
“Activate the disruptor!”
My subordinates didn’t understand why I would do that when the enemy was clearly immune to it, but they weren’t paid to think, and they knew it! (Those who were paid at all, that is.)
as soon as our own field reached the enemy ship, they became a lot less jumpy. I was right, they could jump in the field they generated, but ours could still pin them down!
“Fire a relativistic missile at them and cut the field so that they can jump a second before it hits them!”
If we destroyed the main craft, I had no doubt the strike crafts would avenge it. If they fled, however, we might have a chance. Of course, the most logical course of action for them would be to dodge and finish us of, but I hoped one second would be a short delay enough to overwrite rationality in the brains of our opponents.
And I was right. After a few hours, when the enormous disruption field had completely dissolved, our enemies still hadn’t returned, and we were able to escape.
If Commander Zebdi had not met his demise during the battle, (a tragedy that took me several seconds to recover from), he would have probably pointed out that that we should have destroyed the ship at the cost of our lives in the name of honor.
I, however, was certain that the intel we were bringing back would be a more devasting blow to humanity than the loss of any ship could be. The fact that it allowed us to remain alive was merely a pleasant side effect.
submitted by atra55 to HFY [link] [comments]
To be honest, its sheer size was still impressive, and it was probably better to command it than a smaller, more recent ship. Its shape was a classic example of the later Altirian period, a sort of arrow as the main body, with two smaller one attached to the sides. On the side the artificial gravity considered the “top”, there were building-like structures, resembling a city.
The whole thing looked like it was built for atmospheric flight, which was very much not the case, considering it was more than 800 meters long, and as such would probably fall apart under the forces applied. But it was definitely stylish, even if a little outdated, and still very practical.
There were worse ships to be stuck on for months for sure, and the crew was pretty nice too, barring the exception sitting in front of me. Of course, I was the one who needed to manage Commander Zedbi for the foreseeable future.
“I have come once again to make my complaints heard, Captain.”
“Commander, it’s much too late for me to go back on my decision, even if I wanted to. Complaining now will accomplish nothing except waste everyone’s time.”
“Well, perhaps you should have thought about that before limiting me to bringing only three servants on board. Someone of my status needs at least five, even in special circumstances.”
“Commander, this is a long-term mission. Anyone we bring will be a significant strain on our precious resources. I consider three servants to be more than sufficient for our officers.”
“Yes, I guess you wouldn’t understand who would need more personnel than your mother was ever able to afford. Then again, you only have one butler on a captain’s salary. Guess the Temidian blood runs strong in your family.”
“Enough, Commander. Go back to your post or this conversation will be reported to high command on our return.”
“You wouldn’t dare! They’ll know I’m right!”
Curiously for someone so sure of his righteousness, he still left the bridge, letting me concentrate on the maps of what was known on Terra space. The answer was resoundingly ‘not much’. But we could speculate on what systems would be the potentially juiciest to settle for them, considering what we knew.
I was busy planning the best potential routes for our operation, when the absolute darkness I could see through the glass bay suddenly filled with stars, and the main alarm began blasting.
“We left FTL”, screamed a Licam operating the propulsion system.
“I can see that,” I mumble. “Cut the alarm and send everyone to their combat position. Every officer on the bridge. We need to assess the situation.”
I was already thinking. We were five days of travel away from Earth. We had just encountered an FTL disruption field. What could that mean? Well first of all, the map the sensors were building around us didn’t detect any significant body or hostile vessels nearby, which meant… The disruption field filled a significant part of the system!
For what purpose? It was obvious: traversing it without distortion would take us months. It was a wall. I quickly went over the implications. A disruptor station had to be manned, or at least, maintained. That meant they needed ships travelling for months at sub light speed to resupply these stations! That was quite the commitment to prevent us entry. Fortunately, we could easily turn back to exit the field and go back home, which is exactly what I ordered.
Then, something impossible happened. A ship appeared on the radar, as if it had just exited a jump. But it had done so in the disruption field. Even worse, the gravitational wave detector spiked, like we were now almost right next to the disruptor.
I realized that it was the case: this ship could ignore the disruption field, and as such it had no problem having the disruptor on board.
We began blasting at it with our energy weaponry, to no avail. They were essentially teleporting after each time they fired, always being gone by the time our rays reached their position.
After of few minutes of that pointless exchange of fire, were our weapons never hit and theirs did barely any damage, twelve new signals appeared on the screen coming towards us at a terrifying speed. Missiles! No, the way they maneuvered to escape our point defenses ruled that out. Strike crafts…
The Terrans were hopelessly outmatched in firepower, and elven of the strike crafts were destroyed. But the last one managed to slam in the left “secondary hull”, destroying it almost entirely. We could survive without it, but I doubted that was all the Humans had in stock. We needed to get out now, but how? We were in the middle of a light-hour wide disruption field, that our enemy could somehow ignore! But that gave me an idea. If it didn’t work, we were dead anyway.
“Activate the disruptor!”
My subordinates didn’t understand why I would do that when the enemy was clearly immune to it, but they weren’t paid to think, and they knew it! (Those who were paid at all, that is.)
as soon as our own field reached the enemy ship, they became a lot less jumpy. I was right, they could jump in the field they generated, but ours could still pin them down!
“Fire a relativistic missile at them and cut the field so that they can jump a second before it hits them!”
If we destroyed the main craft, I had no doubt the strike crafts would avenge it. If they fled, however, we might have a chance. Of course, the most logical course of action for them would be to dodge and finish us of, but I hoped one second would be a short delay enough to overwrite rationality in the brains of our opponents.
And I was right. After a few hours, when the enormous disruption field had completely dissolved, our enemies still hadn’t returned, and we were able to escape.
If Commander Zebdi had not met his demise during the battle, (a tragedy that took me several seconds to recover from), he would have probably pointed out that that we should have destroyed the ship at the cost of our lives in the name of honor.
I, however, was certain that the intel we were bringing back would be a more devasting blow to humanity than the loss of any ship could be. The fact that it allowed us to remain alive was merely a pleasant side effect.
2024.05.19 17:16 DaenerysMadQueen S8 events according to the consensus
 | "In the space of a single, terrible day and night, all your fighting men were swallowed up by the earth, and the island of Atlantis likewise was swallowed up by the sea and disappeared." -Plato submitted by DaenerysMadQueen to naath [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/yrf5bahjcd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=bb50bb535a8f7aacc2a6fd5aa289f18540e2de3d Winterfell The first episode of the final season begins, echoing the atmosphere of Robert Baratheon's arrival at Winterfell in the series' premiere. What a lazy screenwriting move for fan service. Jon discovers the secret about his mother and his heritage, in front of his father's crypt. Ned Stark's promise was fulfilled, a stroke of luck for D&D. "You gave up your crown to save your people. Would she do the same ?" https://preview.redd.it/ty7em5xhfd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=0805b98f56f68dd0afc88b28bf3bc3b4cb639eac A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Then comes episode 2, where the heroes discuss future stakes, preparing for the Long Night, and what comes after the battle if it happens. Jon reveals the secret to Daenerys, who doesn't seem pleased to hear it. In short, nothing happens in this episode, it's boring. "All my life, I've known one goal: the Iron Throne. Taking it back from the people who destroyed my family, and almost destroyed yours. My war was against them. Until I met Jon. Now I'm here, half a world away, fighting Jon's war alongside him. Tell me, who manipulated whom ?" https://preview.redd.it/2z99qqywgd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=a6b9c1889e4dbb53b15c9a27c81c83c4edfdf3c7 The Long Night Finally, the famous battle of the Long Night. We just see the Dothraki charging with flaming swords into the darkness, and then nothing. Everything is dark. We can't see anything. Maybe Daenerys at some point tries to roast the Night King, but it's unclear. Everything is black, everything is darkness and gloom. "- I'm going now. - Go where ?" https://preview.redd.it/3t64jmj1gd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=652abdf4a4074091b91976ace33da8b1a4d911bb "Nymeria, it's me, Arya. I'm heading north, girl. Back to Winterfell, I'm finally going home." The Last of the Starks After the credits, Jon Snow is giving a heartfelt speech for the fallen in the battle. Since we didn't see anything I suppose they won, probably because Jon finally killed the Night King and they are celebrating, but Daenerys is visibly disappointed that Arya is the hero of Winterfell, and she's upset that Jon refuses to cuddle with her because of the secret. She doesn't want Jon to talk about the secret because she doesn't want people to know they're engaging in incestuous cuddles. I think. "Even if the truth destroys us ?" https://preview.redd.it/6qvracdcjd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=f50da19f55d66cf2c388752d71df673152780fc2 Anyway, it's very disappointing that the war against the zombies is already over; we should have had a whole season of the Long Night, in darkness and gloom, with an episode solely focused on strategy and the use of trebuchets. And then, when the heroes finally set out to take down Cersei, Daenerys falls into a lame, obvious, and avoidable ambush. Rhaegal dies stupidly, and Missandei is captured, then executed. Tyrion fails to save her, Cersei wins the final Lannister duel, and she angers the Dragon Queen enough to push her over the edge. In short, all of this was rushed and poorly written, nothing makes sense, I am shocked and angry. It's unfair. It's not right. "If you want justice, you've come to the wrong place." https://preview.redd.it/ua493n4cgd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=6d4937e7b8a327f11fc7fa094a84d227623b72a3 The Bells https://preview.redd.it/3w4ate9tyd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=be32819c3eda6b9a7026bb2b300cf8abe22da9af The penultimate episode of the series begins with a letter. Varys wants to inform that Jon is the heir to the throne; he betrays the queen. In mourning, with Tyrion, Daenerys only talks about the secret about Jon. It's the end, Act V of the play, the young tragic princess is lost, and the comedic archetype can't help her, it's too late, it doesn't matter now. "- Yes, she trusts you. She trusted you to spread secrets that could destroy your own queen. And you did not let her down. - If I have failed you, my queen, forgive me. Our intentions were good. We wanted what you want. A better world, all of us. Varys as much as anyone. But it doesn’t matter now. - No. It doesn’t matter now." An extremely poorly written dialogue, obviously, probably one of the worst-written dialogues in the history of theater, cinema, and television. In my opinion, far too convoluted and boring, far too tragic for a TV series. https://preview.redd.it/uo5f4s43jd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=4757e00b2c3f01680bca09125dc998be02af7196 Then the Unsullied come to arrest Varys, and he is sentenced to death. "The Supreme Lord said: I am mighty Time, the source of destruction that comes forth to annihilate the worlds. Even without your participation, the warriors arrayed in the opposing army shall cease to exist." -11.32 Bhagavad Gita https://preview.redd.it/s11lnvojjd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=2d3c760dc6f0f263f6c2004855c67eb8f3819032
https://preview.redd.it/zmehvnu0md1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=d1fe51dec443496ded16e9ac3e15c7a812be39f0 "The things I do for love."
https://preview.redd.it/v9z7c47ekd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=5b1234cd9bab5380176c292c380ab375b83ee9c0 "When you play the game of thrones, you win, or you die. There is no middle ground."
https://preview.redd.it/wjp0lq1pkd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=a4cceb3ac14c2ee57f0b30ab2c5cbf623f2758de "You know what’s wrong with honor ?"
https://preview.redd.it/lrs1bxftkd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=b310d8131ca0607b5e54c47d90ed8ce580f4afe3 "Fire !"
https://preview.redd.it/i7c44r95ld1d1.jpg?width=3733&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4e8e7bb5d1dc502a5bdbe44f7d5bca5b1946c78c "Go home, girl."
https://preview.redd.it/fx5t65gpld1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=71f173f409f518e1cf211c9c85c62725c0bbe8b1 "There's plenty of pious sons of bitches who think they know the word of god or gods. I don’t. I don’t even know their real names. Maybe it is the Seven. Or maybe it’s the old gods. Or maybe it’s the Lord of Light. Or maybe they’re all the same fucking thing. I don’t know. What matters, I believe, is that there’s something greater than us." The Iron Throne https://preview.redd.it/q937d04dvd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=3853c2cf88e2ef52f55128bf61bb0f6d23a5bba3 The last episode, after the bells. So this is how it ends. Daenerys has triumphed, Tyrion has realized his mistake, is imprisoned again, and makes Jon understand in one final conversation that he must choose, between his sisters and Dany, between the Starks and the Targaryens, between love and duty. It's all so tragic. Daenerys finally came home, the legend has triumphed, the dream has become reality. And then the prince steps forward, still plagued by doubt, imploring the young princess to cease her quest for power, to forgive. And Dany's words have meaning, echoing those Tyrion spoke to Jon. The fallen hero then understands that he cannot save both the world and the princess. The long tirades echo high in the halls of the kings who are gone, and the fallen hero murders his lover, not out of ambition for the throne, not out of anger or vengeance, but out of love for his sisters and the people. The tyrant is dead, sadly concluding the dramatic journey of a young innocent orphan that no hero could manage to save. "When I was a girl, my brother told me it was made with one thousand swords from Aegon's fallen enemies. What do one thousand look like in the mind of a little girl who can't count to twenty ? I imagined a mountain of swords too high to climb. So many fallen enemies, you could only see the soles of Aegon's feet." https://preview.redd.it/vi818cdw0e1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=f4732894d0f9b43b9bae3629cc102fb25abfda69 Jon left the throne empty, accepting his judgment and the punishment of the dragon. Thus were extinguished the last Targaryens, in front of the object of all conflicts, high under the sky, above mortals, together. But Jon has a hero's shield too, so I imagine there's a chip scratching Drogon behind a wing, and thus he misses his shot and destroys the walls. And then the chip jumps onto the throne, so Drogon destroys the throne and the chip but he was too tired for Jon afterwards. Such lazy writing, utterly senseless, just for the symbolism of the dragon destroying the throne, the object of all the passions and dramas of this world, a satire of power and conclusion of the story. "I told you it's difficult to explain." Obvious fanservice, nothing complex or mysterious. But we don't know where Drogon is taking Daenerys, she has no mortal tomb. The mystery completes the legend, this girl was a shooting star until the end. "I have been sold like a broodmare. I’ve been chained and betrayed, raped and defiled. Do you know what kept me standing through all those years in exile ? Faith. Not in any gods, not in myths and legends, in myself. In Daenerys Targaryen." https://preview.redd.it/s3jmmuohzd1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=4007c56afdc01347bcc0770f9e7618b07eee3073 And to conclude, the council scene, a calm yet very rushed and poorly written moment, as everyone knows. It's certainly officially announced by professionals somewhere. Once again, the creators understood nothing about the story and the audience's expectations. Nothing funny, nothing complicated, nothing secretive, but the worst part is Bran's choice, it's not good, it's illegal, he cheated. Then the beautiful visuals, the surviving Starks, and Ramin Djawadi's magnificent music for the last five minutes and the final credits, pure happy ending, pure fanservice, it's an absolute failure, the worst series finale in history, it's obviously a dox..., sorry, a well-known consensus. It's all a mix of fan service, bad writing, and being rushed, extremely well-balanced. GRRM would certainly have wanted at least three more seasons to properly tell the final scene between Jon and Daenerys. So much wasted potential, D&D sacrificed the ending of the greatest series in history for Star Wars contracts they didn't even get. It's a scandal. Thankfully, no one talks about GoT anymore since that ending, except to reminisce about the golden age of season 4 and the seasons before. Everyone agrees, it's a fact. It is known. GoT's ending is a beautiful disaster. ... "- It's a long story. - If only we were trapped in a castle in the middle of winter with nowhere to go..." https://preview.redd.it/qifnbl7w6e1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=11319c6b58f55cd52f14bd161c25ef8d633b4c8e ... "Be with me. Build the new world with me. This is our reason. It has been from the beginning since you were a little boy with a bastard's name and I was a little girl who couldn't count to twenty. We do it together. We break the wheel together." https://preview.redd.it/b5i39z5s2e1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=f1704cefcfd8876db60ddc018306883e99760062 "You are my queen, now and always." |
2024.05.19 17:14 smallfrythegoat I told people about my husband's diagnosis
Before we got married my husband served 4 years in the army. I won't say everything I know he did just for is anonymity, but he was at Ft. Hood in 2020/2021 around the time of Vanessa Guillen's death. He left with a schizophrenia diagnosis. From what I understand, when he was younger and also in a stressful period of his life it was present but somehow flew under the radar. In his teens it was even less noticeable. Being in the military brought it back to the forefront.
For the first year that we were married all he told me was that his medication was hidden in his car. His explanation was that people in the barracks were known to find and steal other people's pills so he had developed a paranoia about that. I've never actually witnessed him take the medication.
The main thing giving me grief about it all, aside from the secrecy, is how his symptoms affect his functioning at home and our relationship. We dated briefly in highschool, so I remember what he used to be like. But overall now, he is much more apathetic, indecisive, private, and some days he's just not there at all. Anything around the house- chores, broken appliances, car problems, even our pets being injured. They all go by the wayside unless I either do it myself or stress him out about it. He has no innate drive to take care of these things.
There's also a MAJOR shortage of romance which I struggled with for months, but now I can't tell if I've accustomed to it or simply fallen out of love. I do care about him, but I don't desire him the way that I used to because I know I'll only be disappointed.
Over the course of months, I've vented to my closest friend, my sister, and my husband's mother about it. Because it stresses me the fuck out that I am bearing the full workload of the household and he just does not care. He's not purposely incompetent. He's just not fucking there. In March I broke down in front of him in tears and he scheduled an appointment with his old therapist to see about getting his medication changed- it's scheduled for early June so hopefully it'll get better soon.
I had another conversation with him about it a couple weeks ago now where he admitted he doesn't usually take his medication on his days off of work, because I'm home, and he's just that uncomfortable due to the stigma / knowing that his diagnosis could be perceived as a weakness. It pisses me off that he would jeopardize our household by not taking his meds over that reason because now I can tell for sure that he functions much better when he HAS taken it. But at the same time, now I regret telling anyone about it. Because if that's the root of his concerns then me having told anyone is obviously a threat, at least a liability. It shows that I'm not trustworthy. But I didn't know what else to do short of losing my shit at him. I don't know. I'm at the end of my rope.
submitted by smallfrythegoat to TrueOffMyChest [link] [comments]
For the first year that we were married all he told me was that his medication was hidden in his car. His explanation was that people in the barracks were known to find and steal other people's pills so he had developed a paranoia about that. I've never actually witnessed him take the medication.
The main thing giving me grief about it all, aside from the secrecy, is how his symptoms affect his functioning at home and our relationship. We dated briefly in highschool, so I remember what he used to be like. But overall now, he is much more apathetic, indecisive, private, and some days he's just not there at all. Anything around the house- chores, broken appliances, car problems, even our pets being injured. They all go by the wayside unless I either do it myself or stress him out about it. He has no innate drive to take care of these things.
There's also a MAJOR shortage of romance which I struggled with for months, but now I can't tell if I've accustomed to it or simply fallen out of love. I do care about him, but I don't desire him the way that I used to because I know I'll only be disappointed.
Over the course of months, I've vented to my closest friend, my sister, and my husband's mother about it. Because it stresses me the fuck out that I am bearing the full workload of the household and he just does not care. He's not purposely incompetent. He's just not fucking there. In March I broke down in front of him in tears and he scheduled an appointment with his old therapist to see about getting his medication changed- it's scheduled for early June so hopefully it'll get better soon.
I had another conversation with him about it a couple weeks ago now where he admitted he doesn't usually take his medication on his days off of work, because I'm home, and he's just that uncomfortable due to the stigma / knowing that his diagnosis could be perceived as a weakness. It pisses me off that he would jeopardize our household by not taking his meds over that reason because now I can tell for sure that he functions much better when he HAS taken it. But at the same time, now I regret telling anyone about it. Because if that's the root of his concerns then me having told anyone is obviously a threat, at least a liability. It shows that I'm not trustworthy. But I didn't know what else to do short of losing my shit at him. I don't know. I'm at the end of my rope.
2024.05.19 17:12 VizierAreme Rough Chapter 5
Waking up in the middle of the night I find myself restless
So much has come into focus in the last few days. The station, my first steps on another world. It is all a bit overwhelming. Relaxing my thoughts drift off thinking about how I got here. A young girl on Europa, being selected for training after my aptitude tests, the Academy on Ganymede. Then as always my thoughts drift back to… her…
Lucy…
We started at rivals at the academy, we were from different worlds. Literally, me from Europa a wet ocean world remote and isolated, her an inner worlder from the hot dusty plains of Venus. We were water and fire.
The professors pitted us against each other from day one, based on our aptitude tests we were the top of the class. They split the class into teams and gave us challenges. I like to say I got the better of her, I was fast out the gate winning a few challenges. But Lucy turned back on me in a vengeance, she had a magnetism to her that caused our classmates to almost be addicted to her. People from my team would defect over to Lucy. Soon I found myself vastly outnumbered.
One day after Lucy and her team thrashed me again in a simulated strategy challenge. I left and I needed to be alone. I showered, went into the sauna. Replaying the moves again and again. How was I going to get the upper hand. She outnumbered me so much.
Everyone knew to leave me alone in the sauna. It was where I thought, relaxed, my place of peace. I was frustrated, I lean back against the wall and let me hands wander. Gently down my body, letting my stress evaporate as I tease myself…Then the door opened…. And it was Lucy. A cocky grin in her face.
We had been thinking about nothing but each other and we had both become obsessed. When that tension broke. Let me just say in a sauna fire and water combine to make something beautiful. Lucy and I did as well.
She moved towards me quickly, letting her towel drop, she was direct with a purpose. Grabbing the back of my head and kissing me deeply. I was shocked.. surprised... Excited..
I grabbed the back of her head and kissed her back. A deep need inside of me welling up, our lips slid across each other's as our tongue intertwined. I poured my life water of passion into her. She flared up and accepted my passion. Her hands exploring my body as I moved my knees between her legs.
Fuuuccckkk…. When she arched her back… so beautiful… MMM nnngghhhh an orgasm washed over me in my bed while I thought of Lucy.
Panting… even after all this time, separated by a waygate and unfathomable distance my body still yearned for her, I still yearned for her. Rolling onto my side I stare out my window into the vastness of space and the void. My fingers still ryhmically dancing on my pussy. Fingers sliding in and out
Your taught at the academy not to develop attachments, especially since the top prize, the highest honor of our training, to one day fly a deep space exploration through a waygate. Which would put us alone, in a different system. Like I am now.
Even if I power up my waygate in record time and rush home. Lucy is most likely gone. She was my alternate, meaning had I been unable to go this time she would have. It also means she most likely the deployed to her own system and would be gone before I returned. Likely I would never see her again.
Biting my lips and pressing a hand out onto the glass…yes…yes.. there
Fuck again….Fuucckkkkk LLLLuuucccCC
EeeeeeeeeerrrrrreeeemmmmmAAAAAA, a beautiful black haired woman orgasms in a bed identical to Emeras save the ambient lighting is blue inside of pink.
Fuck…. That was good. I find myself panting as I step out into the hallway of my ship. 2 days since the waygate, 6 months since I last saw Emera. Since she departed through her gate. Stars know if she still lives.
It was a rare happening, another gate coming online shortly after Emera’s departure. I thought I would be flying routine patrols around the system. Now I'm alone. Alone with my thoughts of her, and my AI Julia. Fuck. Why couldn't we have gone together. Why only one pilot to a ship. Who knows maybe she's thinking of me. Technically the systems we are in are closer together than home. That's something…
You're probably wondering if I was outnumbered and Lucy normally had my number in competition then how did I get to leave first. Yes, I did sleep with high command. That was only my closing argument though. You see Lucy had her magnetism that caused people to be addicted to her, she drew people in. But I was better at strategy and nuanced maneuvers.
The rules weren't strict on the teams, people defected all the time. Keeping your people together was part of the challenge. I decided to break that challenge.
No Battleplan survives first contact with the enemy afterall. Why not break the competition itself
My enemy wasn't Lucy, trust me we had been together enough at this point my heart swelled when I saw her. My enemy was the rules, and proctors.
There had to be two team in the academy for the lessons to work. But the rules only set a minimum not a maximum.
Lucy and her best 4 left her team, and me and my best 4 left my team. We formed a new team with Lucy and I at the head. The proctors were fuming. I was called into their offices again and again. Which is what led to me sleeping with a few of them to get ahead. It is always good to solicit a meeting with superiors, you can always be turned to your advantage.
In the Academy, there were 50 of us girls. The proctors let us keep our 3rd team, but declared no one else could join us. It was the ten of us vs double our number on both the other teams. Not ideal… but we had Lucy and I together. My how we shined
We out maneuvered, out paced, and out thought the other teams again and again and again..
Entering into the final the proctors split everyone up, eliminating the team. Just to try and stop us from sweeping the competition. Instead there would be 25 teams of 2 members each of our own selection. Lucy and I naturally selected each other.
We set down on a terraformed valley on Mars, all the other duos were around. The mission was complex. Gather knowledge, survive in the wilderness, there were simulator villages where we had to set up relations, and if possible eliminate other teams.
The gravity is different from what I'm used to, my body feels heavy. Sluggish, they train us on this and soon I'll adapt. But first landing it hits me like a weight. Ffuuuccckkk I murmur as I land my account ship on the surface.
Lucy always compares a new celestial body to a lover. Well for me Mars just grabbed my hair, slapped my ass and pushed in
Fuck I can't imagine landing on Earth. Triple this, fuck that give me my moon mother's oceans anyday.
I suck deep and hard on the control in my mouth and all three extract from me. I am about to get up from the control seat when I feel a palm in the small of my back
“Lucy not funny, let me up” I say
She giggles, and rubs my ass cheeks before her fingers rub against my lips
I moan biting my lip as I push myself against her hand
“I knew the gravity here would give a Moonie like you a good fucking, you're so wet my love”
Rolling my head back and forth..”quickly we have to debrief and set up camp” I moan
She smacks my ass again and her fingers deftly slide to work, one hand pinning me to the chair while she teases my sex, her thumb rubbing in perfect circles on my clit and her fingers pulling on my g-spot
“Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes uuuhhhhh my love it feel so good” shaking my hips back and forth I feel it building as I rock my hips on her hand
Squeezing….my leg….quivering… my voice squeaking… “uuuuuuuhhhhhhhhh ffuuuccckkk” I moan as I feel the orgasm wash over me…
Lucy slaps my ass playfully and licks her fingers… “let's go my love, stop playing around we have to set up camp” she giggles
“Oh!! You!!” I get up and rush after her slapping her ass when I catch up
Carryalls follow us out of the ship.. I immediately sent out the scout drones and assessed our landing spot. Allocating tasks and running diagnostics.
Lucy set about converting the ship to a shelter and arranging power arrays, and deciding on perimeter defenses
We were a perfect power duo. Our carryalls and scouts were soon all at work, and Lucy was finishing up the shelter
I needed to repay her, so I slowly walked up behind her. She heard my heavy steps in the gravity. Turning to look at me she beamed at me. My heart melted and grabbing both sides of her face I pinned her to the side of the ship. Our bodies intertwined and our lips locked.
She moaned at me giggling, pushing my knee between her legs, and we quickly undressed each other. Her mouth on my breast, as my hand glided down to her slick vagina.
Grabbing her chin roughly and up turning her head exposing her neck I sink my teeth into it as I push forward with my knee back and forth pressing my fingers in and out of her.
A deep moan emanates from her, licking my bite mark I kiss up her neck until my forehead is resting hers. Eye to eye, I watch the pleasure build in her. Thrust after thrust of my knee. My fingers pressing into her g-spot every time, my palms pressing and grinding onto her clit
“Cum for me my love, give me your sweetness, I want your water to be the first I drink on this planet” I breath
I feel her pussy tighten and grip my fingers. Her legs twisting around me… she goes silent… a flush rises in her flesh… we kiss deep, and long, and passionately as I feel her gush onto my hand as orgasm rapts her body..
I watch her eyes dilate and relax I kiss her gently again before kissing down, my lips brushing through her pubic hair tickling my lips. Opening my mouth and pressing my tongue in I drink of her orgasm
My fingers inside pressing to work again, she cries out as she rocks her hips grinding her lips to mine. As she gushes another orgasm into my mouth..
I can even taste and feel it now on my tongue…
Releasing her, and helping her up I grin
Walking awayz the top of my leotard open my tits out in the sun
“I'm up by one my love, and you taste so GGGGOOOOoooOOooddddDD” I giggle setting back to work.
Days and weeks pass Lucy and I set up our camp. Wefind nearby teams before they find us. We quickly fall on them in the night, clearing our immediate area, eliminating them from the contest. We bathe in a nearby stream, sun ourselves on the rocks, make love on the soft moss of the forest.
I don't know if I've ever been happier, ever been more at peace l than I was then with Lucy. Her and I… her and I against the world.
We make good progress setting up relations with 12 of the 15 villages. Our camp is well stocked. We receive updates from the proctors from dead drops. Seems out of the 25 teams only 8 remain. Lucy and I have eliminated 7 ourselves.
We need to be the last standing, triumphant together.. so that maybe.. maybe we can convince them to send two of us on a ship. Imagine the wonders, this wouldn't be temporary, but would become our life.
Lucy and I talk about it often. We can convince them. We'll defeat the others then refuse to turn on each other.
Our dream died that night…
We were naked, curled up in each others arms when the alarm sounded..all the alarms
Proximity alert for 14 signals… they had teamed up on us. 14 on 2 they were going to eliminate the front runners while they still could.
Fuck.
Lucy and I turned and quickly downed our emergency biotic vials just as a concussive blast hit our ship shelter.
“Fuck! They aren't supposed to attack equipment!” I yell
“The proctors must have sent them, they should be intervening with that!” Lucy says
“You're better in a fight, charge them and I'll flank” I yell
We nod at each other and we are off naked as the day we were born
Lucy bursts from our ship her shield bursting out in front of her
I dart out the side and task our scouts and drones to make dive bomb attacks on the intruders
I leap over a blast, grab a tree branch and swing. I land my legs on either side of the head. Of one the attackers, twisting my flip her over and knock her out. Back on the run, I see Lucy take out another one as drones dive in and out of the chaos.
Lucy blocks to her right and charges blasting herself high into the air, twirling before blasting herself downward tackling her target to the ground and eliminating her.
She's about to get blasted from behind when I take the attackers in the flank, knee to the solarplex. My hand on the side of her neck I thrust up hard with my knee. In the low gravity she turns and flies off into the trees as I raise my hands and blast another in the side.
She turns just in time to block my attack, when Lucy rockets into her side with her elbow
submitted by VizierAreme to u/VizierAreme [link] [comments]
So much has come into focus in the last few days. The station, my first steps on another world. It is all a bit overwhelming. Relaxing my thoughts drift off thinking about how I got here. A young girl on Europa, being selected for training after my aptitude tests, the Academy on Ganymede. Then as always my thoughts drift back to… her…
Lucy…
We started at rivals at the academy, we were from different worlds. Literally, me from Europa a wet ocean world remote and isolated, her an inner worlder from the hot dusty plains of Venus. We were water and fire.
The professors pitted us against each other from day one, based on our aptitude tests we were the top of the class. They split the class into teams and gave us challenges. I like to say I got the better of her, I was fast out the gate winning a few challenges. But Lucy turned back on me in a vengeance, she had a magnetism to her that caused our classmates to almost be addicted to her. People from my team would defect over to Lucy. Soon I found myself vastly outnumbered.
One day after Lucy and her team thrashed me again in a simulated strategy challenge. I left and I needed to be alone. I showered, went into the sauna. Replaying the moves again and again. How was I going to get the upper hand. She outnumbered me so much.
Everyone knew to leave me alone in the sauna. It was where I thought, relaxed, my place of peace. I was frustrated, I lean back against the wall and let me hands wander. Gently down my body, letting my stress evaporate as I tease myself…Then the door opened…. And it was Lucy. A cocky grin in her face.
We had been thinking about nothing but each other and we had both become obsessed. When that tension broke. Let me just say in a sauna fire and water combine to make something beautiful. Lucy and I did as well.
She moved towards me quickly, letting her towel drop, she was direct with a purpose. Grabbing the back of my head and kissing me deeply. I was shocked.. surprised... Excited..
I grabbed the back of her head and kissed her back. A deep need inside of me welling up, our lips slid across each other's as our tongue intertwined. I poured my life water of passion into her. She flared up and accepted my passion. Her hands exploring my body as I moved my knees between her legs.
Fuuuccckkk…. When she arched her back… so beautiful… MMM nnngghhhh an orgasm washed over me in my bed while I thought of Lucy.
Panting… even after all this time, separated by a waygate and unfathomable distance my body still yearned for her, I still yearned for her. Rolling onto my side I stare out my window into the vastness of space and the void. My fingers still ryhmically dancing on my pussy. Fingers sliding in and out
Your taught at the academy not to develop attachments, especially since the top prize, the highest honor of our training, to one day fly a deep space exploration through a waygate. Which would put us alone, in a different system. Like I am now.
Even if I power up my waygate in record time and rush home. Lucy is most likely gone. She was my alternate, meaning had I been unable to go this time she would have. It also means she most likely the deployed to her own system and would be gone before I returned. Likely I would never see her again.
Biting my lips and pressing a hand out onto the glass…yes…yes.. there
Fuck again….Fuucckkkkk LLLLuuucccCC
Fuck…. That was good. I find myself panting as I step out into the hallway of my ship. 2 days since the waygate, 6 months since I last saw Emera. Since she departed through her gate. Stars know if she still lives.
It was a rare happening, another gate coming online shortly after Emera’s departure. I thought I would be flying routine patrols around the system. Now I'm alone. Alone with my thoughts of her, and my AI Julia. Fuck. Why couldn't we have gone together. Why only one pilot to a ship. Who knows maybe she's thinking of me. Technically the systems we are in are closer together than home. That's something…
The rules weren't strict on the teams, people defected all the time. Keeping your people together was part of the challenge. I decided to break that challenge.
No Battleplan survives first contact with the enemy afterall. Why not break the competition itself
My enemy wasn't Lucy, trust me we had been together enough at this point my heart swelled when I saw her. My enemy was the rules, and proctors.
There had to be two team in the academy for the lessons to work. But the rules only set a minimum not a maximum.
Lucy and her best 4 left her team, and me and my best 4 left my team. We formed a new team with Lucy and I at the head. The proctors were fuming. I was called into their offices again and again. Which is what led to me sleeping with a few of them to get ahead. It is always good to solicit a meeting with superiors, you can always be turned to your advantage.
In the Academy, there were 50 of us girls. The proctors let us keep our 3rd team, but declared no one else could join us. It was the ten of us vs double our number on both the other teams. Not ideal… but we had Lucy and I together. My how we shined
We out maneuvered, out paced, and out thought the other teams again and again and again..
Entering into the final the proctors split everyone up, eliminating the team. Just to try and stop us from sweeping the competition. Instead there would be 25 teams of 2 members each of our own selection. Lucy and I naturally selected each other.
We set down on a terraformed valley on Mars, all the other duos were around. The mission was complex. Gather knowledge, survive in the wilderness, there were simulator villages where we had to set up relations, and if possible eliminate other teams.
The gravity is different from what I'm used to, my body feels heavy. Sluggish, they train us on this and soon I'll adapt. But first landing it hits me like a weight. Ffuuuccckkk I murmur as I land my account ship on the surface.
Lucy always compares a new celestial body to a lover. Well for me Mars just grabbed my hair, slapped my ass and pushed in
Fuck I can't imagine landing on Earth. Triple this, fuck that give me my moon mother's oceans anyday.
I suck deep and hard on the control in my mouth and all three extract from me. I am about to get up from the control seat when I feel a palm in the small of my back
“Lucy not funny, let me up” I say
She giggles, and rubs my ass cheeks before her fingers rub against my lips
I moan biting my lip as I push myself against her hand
“I knew the gravity here would give a Moonie like you a good fucking, you're so wet my love”
Rolling my head back and forth..”quickly we have to debrief and set up camp” I moan
She smacks my ass again and her fingers deftly slide to work, one hand pinning me to the chair while she teases my sex, her thumb rubbing in perfect circles on my clit and her fingers pulling on my g-spot
“Yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes uuuhhhhh my love it feel so good” shaking my hips back and forth I feel it building as I rock my hips on her hand
Squeezing….my leg….quivering… my voice squeaking… “uuuuuuuhhhhhhhhh ffuuuccckkk” I moan as I feel the orgasm wash over me…
Lucy slaps my ass playfully and licks her fingers… “let's go my love, stop playing around we have to set up camp” she giggles
“Oh!! You!!” I get up and rush after her slapping her ass when I catch up
Carryalls follow us out of the ship.. I immediately sent out the scout drones and assessed our landing spot. Allocating tasks and running diagnostics.
Lucy set about converting the ship to a shelter and arranging power arrays, and deciding on perimeter defenses
We were a perfect power duo. Our carryalls and scouts were soon all at work, and Lucy was finishing up the shelter
I needed to repay her, so I slowly walked up behind her. She heard my heavy steps in the gravity. Turning to look at me she beamed at me. My heart melted and grabbing both sides of her face I pinned her to the side of the ship. Our bodies intertwined and our lips locked.
She moaned at me giggling, pushing my knee between her legs, and we quickly undressed each other. Her mouth on my breast, as my hand glided down to her slick vagina.
Grabbing her chin roughly and up turning her head exposing her neck I sink my teeth into it as I push forward with my knee back and forth pressing my fingers in and out of her.
A deep moan emanates from her, licking my bite mark I kiss up her neck until my forehead is resting hers. Eye to eye, I watch the pleasure build in her. Thrust after thrust of my knee. My fingers pressing into her g-spot every time, my palms pressing and grinding onto her clit
“Cum for me my love, give me your sweetness, I want your water to be the first I drink on this planet” I breath
I feel her pussy tighten and grip my fingers. Her legs twisting around me… she goes silent… a flush rises in her flesh… we kiss deep, and long, and passionately as I feel her gush onto my hand as orgasm rapts her body..
I watch her eyes dilate and relax I kiss her gently again before kissing down, my lips brushing through her pubic hair tickling my lips. Opening my mouth and pressing my tongue in I drink of her orgasm
My fingers inside pressing to work again, she cries out as she rocks her hips grinding her lips to mine. As she gushes another orgasm into my mouth..
I can even taste and feel it now on my tongue…
Releasing her, and helping her up I grin
Walking awayz the top of my leotard open my tits out in the sun
“I'm up by one my love, and you taste so GGGGOOOOoooOOooddddDD” I giggle setting back to work.
Days and weeks pass Lucy and I set up our camp. Wefind nearby teams before they find us. We quickly fall on them in the night, clearing our immediate area, eliminating them from the contest. We bathe in a nearby stream, sun ourselves on the rocks, make love on the soft moss of the forest.
I don't know if I've ever been happier, ever been more at peace l than I was then with Lucy. Her and I… her and I against the world.
We make good progress setting up relations with 12 of the 15 villages. Our camp is well stocked. We receive updates from the proctors from dead drops. Seems out of the 25 teams only 8 remain. Lucy and I have eliminated 7 ourselves.
We need to be the last standing, triumphant together.. so that maybe.. maybe we can convince them to send two of us on a ship. Imagine the wonders, this wouldn't be temporary, but would become our life.
Lucy and I talk about it often. We can convince them. We'll defeat the others then refuse to turn on each other.
Our dream died that night…
We were naked, curled up in each others arms when the alarm sounded..all the alarms
Proximity alert for 14 signals… they had teamed up on us. 14 on 2 they were going to eliminate the front runners while they still could.
Fuck.
Lucy and I turned and quickly downed our emergency biotic vials just as a concussive blast hit our ship shelter.
“Fuck! They aren't supposed to attack equipment!” I yell
“The proctors must have sent them, they should be intervening with that!” Lucy says
“You're better in a fight, charge them and I'll flank” I yell
We nod at each other and we are off naked as the day we were born
Lucy bursts from our ship her shield bursting out in front of her
I dart out the side and task our scouts and drones to make dive bomb attacks on the intruders
I leap over a blast, grab a tree branch and swing. I land my legs on either side of the head. Of one the attackers, twisting my flip her over and knock her out. Back on the run, I see Lucy take out another one as drones dive in and out of the chaos.
Lucy blocks to her right and charges blasting herself high into the air, twirling before blasting herself downward tackling her target to the ground and eliminating her.
She's about to get blasted from behind when I take the attackers in the flank, knee to the solarplex. My hand on the side of her neck I thrust up hard with my knee. In the low gravity she turns and flies off into the trees as I raise my hands and blast another in the side.
She turns just in time to block my attack, when Lucy rockets into her side with her elbow
2024.05.19 17:06 PhysicalChickenXx Emma’s journal entry about the ravine
For those that don’t know, when the show was originally airing the characters had journals on the Degrassi web site where they would write about what was going on in the episodes.
I know there’s a lot of discussion about Emma and Jay in the ravine here, and I found a copy of her journal entry from the time that I thought was pretty interesting and sheds some light on how the writers were viewing it. Here it is:
“Now that I got my parental gatekeepers off my back I can update my journal in privacy. It must be almost 3 in the morning -- not the best time to get caught sneaking back into your bedroom through the basement window. We're supposed to have a "talk" tomorrow, but I'm trying to think...is there anything else I'd rather NOT do? Don't think so. I don't even want to hear their questions, because all I can do is lie.
As if I'm going to tell them I was in the ravine, in Jay's van, doing the thing you have to do to get wrist-enhancing accessories. As if... But it's not like I'm super happy about it either. I know that people will call me a sl*t or whatever if they find out what I did...oh gawd I can just imagine Manny's reaction...and it's not even like I really know why I did it, or why I went to the ravine with Jay to begin with. Maybe I just wanted to be somebody else for a change. Not the person my friends, parents, teachers and everyone thinks I am. I just wanted to be different. Not better or worse, just different. And the person I was would never have done what I did earlier tonight. I'm just not sure what that makes me right now. Probably worse. Or what that makes me and Jay -- and if there's something to that I'm not saying I wouldn't do it again. Definitely worse. I don't care.
Ugh! It's sooooo late! I wasn't lying when I told my mom I couldn't sleep since Rick shot Jimmy, then got shot and died in the hallway right in front of my eyes. But of course I knew it would make her back off, for a while at least. So what if that's not the whole story. Do I have to tell her everything that I'm doing, thinking and feeling all the time? I'm not sure myself. Good night. If I don't get some sleep tomorrow's school play will have Dracula seducing a sleep-deprived zombie instead of the fresh and innocent Mina I'm supposed to bring to life.”
submitted by PhysicalChickenXx to Degrassi [link] [comments]
I know there’s a lot of discussion about Emma and Jay in the ravine here, and I found a copy of her journal entry from the time that I thought was pretty interesting and sheds some light on how the writers were viewing it. Here it is:
“Now that I got my parental gatekeepers off my back I can update my journal in privacy. It must be almost 3 in the morning -- not the best time to get caught sneaking back into your bedroom through the basement window. We're supposed to have a "talk" tomorrow, but I'm trying to think...is there anything else I'd rather NOT do? Don't think so. I don't even want to hear their questions, because all I can do is lie.
As if I'm going to tell them I was in the ravine, in Jay's van, doing the thing you have to do to get wrist-enhancing accessories. As if... But it's not like I'm super happy about it either. I know that people will call me a sl*t or whatever if they find out what I did...oh gawd I can just imagine Manny's reaction...and it's not even like I really know why I did it, or why I went to the ravine with Jay to begin with. Maybe I just wanted to be somebody else for a change. Not the person my friends, parents, teachers and everyone thinks I am. I just wanted to be different. Not better or worse, just different. And the person I was would never have done what I did earlier tonight. I'm just not sure what that makes me right now. Probably worse. Or what that makes me and Jay -- and if there's something to that I'm not saying I wouldn't do it again. Definitely worse. I don't care.
Ugh! It's sooooo late! I wasn't lying when I told my mom I couldn't sleep since Rick shot Jimmy, then got shot and died in the hallway right in front of my eyes. But of course I knew it would make her back off, for a while at least. So what if that's not the whole story. Do I have to tell her everything that I'm doing, thinking and feeling all the time? I'm not sure myself. Good night. If I don't get some sleep tomorrow's school play will have Dracula seducing a sleep-deprived zombie instead of the fresh and innocent Mina I'm supposed to bring to life.”
2024.05.19 17:06 Star60WasTaken Speculations about the new DbD spinoff "What the Fog" being a data mining cash grab
 | Not sure how many people here are interested in What the Fog but since it doesn't have it's own subreddit I thought this would be the next best thing. submitted by Star60WasTaken to deadbydaylight [link] [comments] I'm going to ramble a lot about the games history that I can tell from its files, so if you're not really interested in that skip down to the next sentence with bold text to get to the meat of this post. So I'm sure most of you who did redeem What the Fog for free found it a little bit weird that in order to get your steam code you had to agree to two conditions being bHVR is allowed to data-mine from your game and share that data with 3rd party corporations. If you didn't want to agree to this you have the option of just buying the game on steam for the full price instead. Although not really major this did seem like a bit of a red flag and a couple of my friends thought so as well so I did a little digging. It didn't take long at all from looking in the games files that this game was never intended to be Dead by Daylight themed, I'm not just talking about the fact that the weapons are overly fantasy-like or the enemies and abilities don't fit the characters I mean the fact that there are literally 3 unused characters in the games files named "Paladin", "Ranger" and "Sorcerer". The folder containing all character models, textures, animations and abilities. The Paladin and the Sorcerer still have their character models left over in the games files and after a long battle with Umodel, Fmodel and UE 4/5 Scripting System I managed to recover both the Paladin and the Sorcerer. After loading them into Blender and setting up their materials here's how they look. The unused Sorcerer and Paladin character models. These models do appear to be outdated though as they do not have a skeleton or a rig and they are using the old hand type, have an outdated UV as well as missing parts of their models. I've been working over the past day or so to restore the models to a functional state based off the rigging of Dwight and Feng. They still need some work but here's an idea of what they could have looked like had they have not been scrapped. Interesting thing to note is that the skeletons used by Dwight and Feng have bones left over for these characters that are animated in the animations these characters use. Both characters share a 'hat' bone for the helmet and wizards hat and the Sorcerer has a 'strap' bone for knot at his chin as well as the Paladin having a 'wings' bone and a 'helm_front' bone. Take a look. The Sorcerer and Paladin playing their menu idle animations, alongside Dwight and Feng. The Sorcerer and Paladin playing their spawn animations, alongside Dwight and Feng. While the Paladin and Sorcerer were left over in the files unfortunately the Ranger is nowhere to be found, they could be tucked away in a random file but as far as I can see only their textures remain. I can infer a little from their diffuse map as to how they might have appeared. The diffuse texture for the Ranger. I believe that the Ranger wore a green puffer jacket but the rest is a bit hard to understand from the UV... with consideration of the fantasy theme the green quarter circle shapes in the top left could be a gambeson that they wore over a brown skirt with a white shirt. I can't see any pants on the texture so this is my best guess. Their shoes were green with black detailing and they wore a green headband with yellow writing with a yellow gem in the center of their headband. Their weapon was a green crossbow bearing yellow gems. They have dark skin with black curly hair and black eyes. Based on the skeleton that all the characters use having some hair bones that nobody else uses I can assume that they had a bun on the back of their head with puffy bangs that were swept to the left of their face. If you've played What the Fog then you'll be able to guess that the Sorcerer was replaced with Dwight, the Ranger was replaced with Claudette and the Paladin was replaced with Feng. This sudden change was assumedly made pretty late into the games development considering the fact that some abilities still reference removed character weapons and the 'SkullNBones' models that each survivor use are still using the old weapon designs from these characters when you die which I'll go into more detail about. Feng has 3 skills she can learn which feel off, those being 'Shield Bash', 'Plated' and 'Resolve' which you can see the icons for below in that order. Shield Bash, Plated & Resolve. Two of these skills still depict the character with the shield/torso plating that the Paladin wears, rather than reworking these abilities they just simply left them in despite them not making much sense. The last ability being Resolve feels off due to the art style, it's inconsistent with the rest of the drawings and the shading has more of a smeared paint look to it rather than the gradient every other icon in the game has, suggesting it was drawn over when they made the switch from the Paladin to Feng. (It's hard to see from this image, if anyone wants the HD texture files to compare let me know.) Despite those remnants still left over you can actually see the literal remains of the Paladin, Ranger and Sorcerer when a player dies and isn't revived by the end of the level. Below you can see the 'SkullNBones' models for each character where you can see that the sword has the Paladins design on the blade rather than the cloth wrapped around Feng's, the crossbow has the Rangers yellow gems on it instead of Claudette's pink gems and the staff has the Sorcerers green crystal in it rather than Dwight's blue crystal. The changes to this game to make it DbD themed must have happened late into development since the game already had original characters, mechanics and models before it was turned into a DbD spinoff. I assume they were also made very close to release considering how the wrong weapons displaying on dead players really should have been noticed before release. The remains of the Paladin, the Ranger and the Sorcerer being used by Feng, Claud and Dwight respectively. Other than the character models of the original characters remaining, there are some other remnants of the game before it became What the Fog left over in its files. Much like the character models I am unable to view most of them however I can say that certain mechanics such as the exit door was different. It appears to have had a massive crystal on it instead of trappers mask and would have been unlocked with a key, assumedly found in the level. Another leftover asset are the chests that existed before Generators. I found it a bit weird that you had to spend currency to complete a generator and for it to give you a buff, turns out its because they were chests before the game was rebranded. I'll include an image of them below. Chest_00 and Chest_02 respectively. So what's the point of this post, well I'm a bit worried about what this game means for bHVR and DbD in the future. On the surface this game looks like a funny little DbD spinoff but from what it looks like bHVR rebranded this game as a DbD game in order to get the fanbase of its biggest title to go "Omg! New DbD thing!" and start downloading it, normally this wouldn't be a problem as a lot of game studios make sequels upon sequels to games and spinoffs because the franchise sells but this game is a little different. Assumedly the game was either a little side project of bHVR's or a test for the Devs when moving from UE4 to UE5, they either finished work on it or were interrupted as they have said that they don't plan to work on it anymore then slapped DbD onto it and released it for free if you agree to bHVR data mining and selling your data to third party businesses. TL;DR What the Fog is basically a cash grab that bHVR slapped the DbD brand on very last minute to make fans buy the game. They don't plan to update it and they also offer it to existing DbD fans for free as long as bHVR can sell and use your data. Sometimes bHVR makes changes to DbD that isn't all well received, that's just apart of game development but while those are just choices from a game design standpoint and while you could argue that these changes were made to make the game appeal to DbD fans they also decided to make it free for 2 million DbD fans who chose to sign their data away through an agreement. Looking at those two choices together looks a bit shady, I can't make accurate assumptions based off the findings in a short spinoff game so this is purely speculation and I hope I'm just blowing things out of proportion but as a DbD fan myself I'm genuinely concerned that we could start to see more decisions like this being made, I don't want to find out I'm in the reality where DbD as a game and as a franchise as well as what we're seeing produced by bHVR as well suffers as a game due to questionable business decisions. After looking through the games files I thought this was an interesting and somewhat concerning discovery that people should know about. In any case if you did receive this game for free by redeeming a code you should go and turn off the data mining on your account through this link: https://account.bhvr.com/account/communication-preferences You'll still be able to play the game, but bHVR won't be able to collect your data anymore. Stay safe friends. |
2024.05.19 17:05 Maximum_Wait1273 How I would change Dunki (copypasta from my post in r/bollywood)
I enjoyed Dunki, but it wasn't as great as a RKH film with SRK as the lead that talks about illegal immigration should have been. I am not a better writer than RKH, Abhijaat Joshi or Kanika Dhillon. This is just for fun. Here we go:
ACT 1:
We open the film with a large group of people protesting in front of the UK embassy in India. Cops show up to remove the crowd. The protestors start running away and chaos ensues. We see an old man, running, clutching his chest, sweating. He regains his composure and the man is revealed to be SRK. He gets arrested by the cops and we cut to him sitting in an interrogation chamber. A woman enters, adresses SRK as Mr. Dhillon and introduces herself as Priya Varma. She says she has been appointed by the Indian government and the UK embassy to talk to him. They share some fun banter and then, Mr. Dhillon starts explaining his story.
Back in 1995, in the small village of Laltu, Punjab, lived Hardayal Singh Dhillon aka Hardy. In a short funny sequence, we learn that- He was an outsider in the village. He was in the army, but due to his cowardice causing 7 other soldiers to get gravely injured, he was expelled. Without any money, he showed up to the village of Laltu, a place where there is great respect for the army. He paints himself as a war hero in front of the villagers, and as a result, he is treated like a celebrity. Free food, free lodging, you name it. Eventually, he got exposed by some villagers. To stop matters from getting worse, Hardy sweeps this matter under the rug by using the obsession of the villagers to get to foreign countries to his advantage. He tells them that he will start an IELTS coaching centre in the village and help everyone get visas.
After this sequence ends, we cut to the characters of Manu, Sukhi, Buggu and Balli. We see their everyday struggles and how they desperately want to get to London. We also establish how they dislike their country and living in it. We see them join the IELTS classes, where Hardy and his assistant, Geetu, teach English to students. Some comedic sequences will take place here and it will get established that Hardy and Geetu just want to earn money and don't actually care about the students. Also, we see that Hardy hates living in India and wants to go abroad too. He capitalises on his students' hate towards their country by making them appear for IELTS to get a visa.
Eventually, the day of the exam comes and like the movie, we see a sequence here that is both comedic and emotional. The results come and just like the film, Balli passes whereas the others fail. As Balli is departing, Hardy and Geetu arrive to shoot a promotional video. Here, they get confronted by Sukhi, Buggu and Manu, who tell them that they don't care about the students and just started this as a hustle to earn money and save Hardy's reputation in the village. The sequence ends with Sukhi slapping Hardy, causing the latter to leave, dejected.
Manu and the other two decide that they will take the Dunki route to get to London, because they cannot die in this stupid village. Hardy arrives and decides to help them by not only giving them the necessary money, but also deciding to accompany them. The gang is skeptical, but agree to accept his help.
The next day, they go to meet an agent who will send them on the journey. Here, we get a comedic sequence where the agent tries to paint the whole journey as some kind of tourist activity and also tries to sell them packages. Hardy sees through all of this and tells the others that as a former crook himself, he understands the agent's tactics. However, left without any choice, they decide to go ahead, as none of them want to "rot in India."
END OF ACT 1
submitted by Maximum_Wait1273 to ShahRukhKhan [link] [comments]
ACT 1:
We open the film with a large group of people protesting in front of the UK embassy in India. Cops show up to remove the crowd. The protestors start running away and chaos ensues. We see an old man, running, clutching his chest, sweating. He regains his composure and the man is revealed to be SRK. He gets arrested by the cops and we cut to him sitting in an interrogation chamber. A woman enters, adresses SRK as Mr. Dhillon and introduces herself as Priya Varma. She says she has been appointed by the Indian government and the UK embassy to talk to him. They share some fun banter and then, Mr. Dhillon starts explaining his story.
Back in 1995, in the small village of Laltu, Punjab, lived Hardayal Singh Dhillon aka Hardy. In a short funny sequence, we learn that- He was an outsider in the village. He was in the army, but due to his cowardice causing 7 other soldiers to get gravely injured, he was expelled. Without any money, he showed up to the village of Laltu, a place where there is great respect for the army. He paints himself as a war hero in front of the villagers, and as a result, he is treated like a celebrity. Free food, free lodging, you name it. Eventually, he got exposed by some villagers. To stop matters from getting worse, Hardy sweeps this matter under the rug by using the obsession of the villagers to get to foreign countries to his advantage. He tells them that he will start an IELTS coaching centre in the village and help everyone get visas.
After this sequence ends, we cut to the characters of Manu, Sukhi, Buggu and Balli. We see their everyday struggles and how they desperately want to get to London. We also establish how they dislike their country and living in it. We see them join the IELTS classes, where Hardy and his assistant, Geetu, teach English to students. Some comedic sequences will take place here and it will get established that Hardy and Geetu just want to earn money and don't actually care about the students. Also, we see that Hardy hates living in India and wants to go abroad too. He capitalises on his students' hate towards their country by making them appear for IELTS to get a visa.
Eventually, the day of the exam comes and like the movie, we see a sequence here that is both comedic and emotional. The results come and just like the film, Balli passes whereas the others fail. As Balli is departing, Hardy and Geetu arrive to shoot a promotional video. Here, they get confronted by Sukhi, Buggu and Manu, who tell them that they don't care about the students and just started this as a hustle to earn money and save Hardy's reputation in the village. The sequence ends with Sukhi slapping Hardy, causing the latter to leave, dejected.
Manu and the other two decide that they will take the Dunki route to get to London, because they cannot die in this stupid village. Hardy arrives and decides to help them by not only giving them the necessary money, but also deciding to accompany them. The gang is skeptical, but agree to accept his help.
The next day, they go to meet an agent who will send them on the journey. Here, we get a comedic sequence where the agent tries to paint the whole journey as some kind of tourist activity and also tries to sell them packages. Hardy sees through all of this and tells the others that as a former crook himself, he understands the agent's tactics. However, left without any choice, they decide to go ahead, as none of them want to "rot in India."
END OF ACT 1
2024.05.19 17:03 Plenty_Confusion6395 TX - Co Parent signed a Temporary Orders Agreement in what seems to be bad faith / De Novo
We had an initial hearing a few months back, where it was ordered child would live with me while the court services do an investigation. In the mean time, other parent only had limited weekend visits. We went back to court for the official temporary orders hearing. I had an attorney co parent did not. A hearing was never actually held as my attorney and court services talked with co parent. They agreed to settled terms. The only input the judge had at the time was helping to identify a short list of reunification counselors. Reunification counseling for the co parent and child was our agreement, and what court services recommended. However, none of that was ever actually heard by the judge.
2 days later, other parent has an attorney filing a de novo appeal for this to be set aside, and for things to be held in front of a new judge. They are requesting that I am limited to supervised visits, and effectively give other parent 100% of everything. The child was involved in physical altercations with the other parent, faced criminal charges with the other parent, and the other parents spouse has been abusive physically and emotionally. This is documented through police reports and 911 calls. I was never informed of any of this previously until the most recent altercation.
It is my understanding that de novo is to challenge a judge's ruling. However, there was no hearing, so the judge didn't rule. The judge just signed off on our agreement. I believe they knew or had the attorney and didn't appear in time, and agreed in bad faith to waste time.
It seems procedurally, this new hearing has to take place. However, can there be consequences for using de novo appeal when this was a settled agreement and not actually challenging a judge's ruling?
Also, child will be a high schooler in the fall, and has suffered a lot of traumatic events with other parent. Child has been with me for 8 months exclusively at this point because the child refused to go to other parent's home. I did not in any way withhold the child. Child told court services they want to live with me as well. My attorney believes this is ridiculous.
Can this reflect poorly on the other parent?
submitted by Plenty_Confusion6395 to FamilyLaw [link] [comments]
2 days later, other parent has an attorney filing a de novo appeal for this to be set aside, and for things to be held in front of a new judge. They are requesting that I am limited to supervised visits, and effectively give other parent 100% of everything. The child was involved in physical altercations with the other parent, faced criminal charges with the other parent, and the other parents spouse has been abusive physically and emotionally. This is documented through police reports and 911 calls. I was never informed of any of this previously until the most recent altercation.
It is my understanding that de novo is to challenge a judge's ruling. However, there was no hearing, so the judge didn't rule. The judge just signed off on our agreement. I believe they knew or had the attorney and didn't appear in time, and agreed in bad faith to waste time.
It seems procedurally, this new hearing has to take place. However, can there be consequences for using de novo appeal when this was a settled agreement and not actually challenging a judge's ruling?
Also, child will be a high schooler in the fall, and has suffered a lot of traumatic events with other parent. Child has been with me for 8 months exclusively at this point because the child refused to go to other parent's home. I did not in any way withhold the child. Child told court services they want to live with me as well. My attorney believes this is ridiculous.
Can this reflect poorly on the other parent?
2024.05.19 17:02 GovernmentEvening815 I have a funny story for y’all to maybe help make you feel better about your day.
So for context, I drink Kratom tea several times a week. Those who are familiar with it know that too much Kratom can cause constipation so I make sure to limit my intake and take breaks for a few days.
Well my boyfriend surprised me with a spontaneous trip out of town at this cute little cottage Airbnb. We don’t live together so whenever we have the ability to spend the weekend together I’m always excited.
He told me Friday morning & I was still on my Kratom break so I drank about 3 or 4 cups of regular green tea with honey and chamomile to help “get things moving” before we left.
Shortly after we arrive I feel things a-rumblin in the jungle and started to get a little nervous. Don’t get me wrong, we pass gas in front of each other & stuff, we’re comfortable but I still try to be discreet about it. Well I felt a storm comin & randomly he’s like “hey I’m gonna run to the shop in town to get us some food and drinks for the weekend.”
I got excited because I’m thinking this is my chance to exorcise my demons while he’s gone. At this point I was clenching ok…
So he yells “I’ll be right back” from the front of the cottage and I’m like “ok, see you soon” and I think I hear him close the door. Immediately I let it out. A huge sonic boom from below my dress. I immediately felt better.
Except he opened the door and didn’t leave. He closed it to grab his keys from the counter and all I hear is “damn, babe. I’m a little worried about you after that” and he started laughing. I melted into the floor in embarrassment (he took it great, didn’t make me feel bad about it). And we laughed about it the rest of the weekend.
So moral of the story: limit the green tea & Kratom before going on a romantic getaway.
Blessings!
submitted by GovernmentEvening815 to WitchesVsPatriarchy [link] [comments]
Well my boyfriend surprised me with a spontaneous trip out of town at this cute little cottage Airbnb. We don’t live together so whenever we have the ability to spend the weekend together I’m always excited.
He told me Friday morning & I was still on my Kratom break so I drank about 3 or 4 cups of regular green tea with honey and chamomile to help “get things moving” before we left.
Shortly after we arrive I feel things a-rumblin in the jungle and started to get a little nervous. Don’t get me wrong, we pass gas in front of each other & stuff, we’re comfortable but I still try to be discreet about it. Well I felt a storm comin & randomly he’s like “hey I’m gonna run to the shop in town to get us some food and drinks for the weekend.”
I got excited because I’m thinking this is my chance to exorcise my demons while he’s gone. At this point I was clenching ok…
So he yells “I’ll be right back” from the front of the cottage and I’m like “ok, see you soon” and I think I hear him close the door. Immediately I let it out. A huge sonic boom from below my dress. I immediately felt better.
Except he opened the door and didn’t leave. He closed it to grab his keys from the counter and all I hear is “damn, babe. I’m a little worried about you after that” and he started laughing. I melted into the floor in embarrassment (he took it great, didn’t make me feel bad about it). And we laughed about it the rest of the weekend.
So moral of the story: limit the green tea & Kratom before going on a romantic getaway.
Blessings!
2024.05.19 16:56 Sweet-Count2557 Best Restaurants in Montego Bay Jamaica
 | Best Restaurants in Montego Bay Jamaica Get ready to embark on a delectable journey through the best restaurants in Montego Bay, Jamaica.We're here to guide you as we tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to the culinary wonders this vibrant city has to offer.From savoring the authentic flavors of Jamaican jerk chicken at Scotchies to indulging in fine dining at Sugar Mill, Montego Bay has something to satisfy every palate.So, join us as we uncover the hidden gems of this food lover's paradise.Let's dive in and experience the freedom of flavor!Key TakeawaysMystic Thai, Sugar Mill, and Tokyo Jos are all highly rated restaurants in terms of taste, variety, service, and atmosphere.Juici Patties is a famous local fast-food chain that offers must-try patties and a filling Ackee & Saltfish plate.The Houseboat Grill is a unique dining experience and is ideal for special occasions like birthdays.Scotchies, Pier 1, Marguerite's Seafood by the Sea, and The Pelican Grill are all popular restaurants known for their delicious food, unique settings, and attentive service.Mystic Thai: Taste of Thailand in Montego BayWe have heard great things about Mystic Thai, a taste of Thailand in Montego Bay. If you're looking to experience authentic Thai cuisine in Montego Bay, Mystic Thai is the place to go. Located inside Fairview Towne Center, this fancy Thai restaurant offers a true taste of Thailand right in the heart of Jamaica.When it comes to the taste and variety of dishes, Mystic Thai doesn't disappoint. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5, their menu is filled with traditional Thai flavors and spices that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok. From classic Pad Thai to flavorful Green Curry, every dish is prepared with precision and attention to detail.Not only does Mystic Thai excel in taste, but their service is also top-notch. With a rating of 4 out of 5, the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. The atmosphere at Mystic Thai is another highlight, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5. The restaurant's elegant decor and soothing ambiance create a relaxing and inviting space where you can truly savor your meal.While Mystic Thai offers an authentic taste of Thailand, it's important to note that the affordability rating is 3.5 out of 5. The quality of the food and service comes at a slightly higher price, but the experience is well worth it for those seeking a true Taste of Thailand experience in Montego Bay.Sugar Mill: Fine Dining at Half Moon ResortAt Sugar Mill, located in Half Moon Resort, guests can indulge in an exquisite seafood menu while enjoying a romantic beachfront dining experience. The restaurant offers a wide variety of freshly caught seafood dishes, prepared with a Jamaican twist.With its elegant decor, attentive service, and stunning beach views, Sugar Mill is the perfect choice for a memorable fine dining experience in Montego Bay.Exquisite Seafood MenuThe Sugar Mill restaurant at Half Moon Resort offers an exquisite seafood menu that's sure to delight any seafood lover. From succulent lobster to fresh-caught fish, the menu showcases a variety of delectable options that will leave your taste buds craving for more.The chef at Sugar Mill is a master at creating exquisite seafood pairings, combining flavors in a way that elevates each dish to new heights. Whether you prefer grilled fish with a tangy citrus glaze or creamy seafood pasta, the restaurant delivers a memorable seafood dining experience.With its elegant atmosphere and impeccable service, Sugar Mill is the perfect place to indulge in the finest seafood Montego Bay has to offer.And speaking of indulgence, let's move on to the next section about romantic beachfront dining.Romantic Beachfront DiningLet's begin with a truly romantic experience - imagine enjoying a candlelit dinner for two at the Sugar Mill, a fine dining restaurant located at the Half Moon Resort. This beachfront restaurant offers the perfect setting for a romantic evening, with stunning views of the ocean and a serene ambiance.Here are four reasons why Sugar Mill is the ideal choice for a romantic beachfront dinner:Sunset Views: As you indulge in a delectable meal, you can witness the breathtaking beauty of the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors.Intimate Atmosphere: The Sugar Mill provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere, ensuring privacy and a sense of exclusivity for you and your loved one.Exquisite Cuisine: The restaurant offers a menu filled with exquisite dishes prepared with the finest ingredients, expertly crafted by talented chefs.Attentive Service: The staff at Sugar Mill is known for their impeccable service, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is taken care of.Embark on a romantic journey with your partner and create unforgettable memories with a sunset dining experience at Sugar Mill.Tokyo Jos: Asian Fusion Delights in Sandals Montego BayWhen it comes to Tokyo Jos in Sandals Montego Bay, the ambiance is casual and laid-back, with a relaxed atmosphere that sets the perfect mood for enjoying Asian fusion cuisine.The menu offers a variety of dishes that fuse flavors from different Asian cuisines, providing a unique dining experience.While the service at Tokyo Jos is generally good, it could be improved to match the quality of the food and ambiance.Tokyo Jos AmbianceWe absolutely loved the vibrant ambiance at Tokyo Jos, with its Asian-inspired decor and lively atmosphere. The restaurant's interior is beautifully decorated in a fusion of traditional Japanese and modern elements, creating a visually stunning setting.The dim lighting and soft music in the background add to the overall relaxing and intimate atmosphere. The energetic buzz of conversations and the sound of sizzling ingredients on the teppanyaki grills create a lively and dynamic dining experience.The open kitchen concept allows guests to witness the skillful preparation of their dishes, adding an element of excitement to the meal. It's a perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or have a fun night out with friends.Tokyo Jos MenuWe frequently enjoy exploring the diverse menu options at Tokyo Jos, where Sandals Montego Bay offers an array of Asian fusion delights. The Tokyo Jos menu is a fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Thai cuisines, providing a wide range of flavors and dishes to satisfy any palate. From sushi rolls and sashimi to stir-fried noodles and savory curries, there's something for everyone at Tokyo Jos.The restaurant's ambiance is casual and relaxed, with a modern and stylish decor that creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The dim lighting and soft music add to the overall dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.As we explore the Tokyo Jos menu, we can't help but anticipate the excellent service that awaits us at this Asian fusion gem in Montego Bay.Tokyo Jos ServiceThe Tokyo Jos service at Sandals Montego Bay combines attentive staff and efficient service to enhance the dining experience.Customers have raved about their experience at Tokyo Jos, praising the friendly and knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasurable dining experience. The waitstaff is attentive and prompt, ensuring that guests' needs are met in a timely manner.The service at Tokyo Jos is known for being efficient and professional, creating a seamless dining experience for guests. Additionally, Tokyo Jos offers a variety of vegetarian options on their menu, catering to the needs of those who prefer plant-based meals.Customers appreciate the inclusion of vegetarian dishes, allowing them to enjoy the Asian fusion delights at Tokyo Jos.Juici Patties: Local Fast Food FavoriteJuici Patties is a local fast food favorite, offering a variety of must-try patties, especially their beef and vegetable options. As a popular chain since the 1980s, Juici Patties has become a staple in Montego Bay. Located conveniently throughout the city, it's easy to satisfy your cravings for delicious and affordable fast food.The patties at Juici Patties are a true delight. The beef patties are juicy and flavorful, with a perfectly seasoned filling encased in a flaky and buttery crust. The vegetable patties are a great option for vegetarians, filled with a medley of fresh and savory vegetables that burst with every bite. Each patty is made with care, ensuring that you get the best quality and taste.In addition to their famous patties, Juici Patties also offers a filling Ackee & Saltfish plate. This traditional Jamaican dish features the national fruit, ackee, sautéed with salted codfish and served with sides like boiled green bananas and fried dumplings. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that showcases the diverse flavors of Jamaica.When it comes to fast food, Juici Patties stands out for its commitment to quality and taste. Their patties are made with the finest ingredients, and each one is crafted with precision and expertise. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Juici Patties is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.While Juici Patties is a fantastic option for fast food, if you're in the mood for an authentic Jamaican jerk experience, Scotchies is the place to go. With its smoky and flavorful jerk chicken, affordable prices, and casual and laid-back atmosphere, Scotchies offers a true taste of Jamaica.The Houseboat Grill: Dining on the WaterAt The Houseboat Grill, we dine on the water, enjoying a unique dining experience in an actual houseboat located in Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary. This restaurant offers something truly special, combining delicious cuisine with a one-of-a-kind setting.Here are some reasons why dining at The Houseboat Grill is an experience you won't want to miss:Unforgettable Ambiance: Imagine sitting on a houseboat, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary. The gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of the waves create a serene and romantic atmosphere that's perfect for a special occasion or a memorable night out.Spectacular Views: From your table, you'll have stunning views of the bay, with breathtaking sunsets and the twinkling lights of the city creating a magical backdrop. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the deck, the beauty of the surroundings will enhance your dining experience.Fresh Seafood Delights: The Houseboat Grill is known for its delectable seafood dishes. From succulent lobster to perfectly grilled fish, every bite is bursting with flavor. The chefs here are experts at creating dishes that showcase the best of Jamaican cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to ensure freshness and quality.Attentive Service: The staff at The Houseboat Grill are friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing exceptional service. They'll ensure that your dining experience is seamless, from the moment you step on board until the last bite of dessert.When it comes to a dining experience like no other, The Houseboat Grill truly delivers. Its unique location, combined with delicious food and attentive service, make it a must-visit restaurant in Montego Bay.Scotchies: Authentic Jamaican Jerk ExperienceWe always love experiencing the authentic Jamaican jerk flavors at Scotchies. This casual eatery with rustic decor is known for its Jamaican menu that truly captures the essence of the island's culinary traditions. As soon as you walk in, you'll be greeted by the tantalizing aroma of smoky jerk chicken being grilled to perfection. The menu features a variety of slow-cooked meats, including succulent pork and chicken, which are marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and then grilled over pimento wood for that distinct smoky flavor.What sets Scotchies apart isn't just the delicious food, but also the affordable prices. You can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The portions are generous, ensuring that you leave satisfied and satisfied.The atmosphere at Scotchies is casual and laid-back, with bamboo chairs surrounding a table under a thatched roof shade. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal with friends or family. As you savor the flavorful jerk chicken, you can also indulge in traditional Jamaican sides like Roast Yam and Bammy, a cassava bread.Scotchies has multiple locations in Montego Bay, making it convenient for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're craving authentic jerk flavors or simply looking for an affordable and delicious meal, Scotchies is a must-visit.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are Some of the Must-Try Dishes at Mystic Thai in Montego Bay?At Mystic Thai in Montego Bay, some must-try dishes include their flavorful Pad Thai, aromatic Green Curry, and mouthwatering Pineapple Fried Rice.The restaurant, located inside Fairview Towne Center, offers a fancy dining experience with a 4.5/5 rating for taste and variety. The service is rated at 4/5 and the atmosphere at 4.5/5.Though the affordability is rated at 3.5/5, the delicious Thai cuisine and pleasant ambience make it a top choice for food enthusiasts in Montego Bay.Can You Provide More Information About the Dining Experience at the Houseboat Grill?The dining experience at the Houseboat Grill in Montego Bay is truly unique. Set in an actual houseboat in the Montego Bay Marine Park Fish Sanctuary, it offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.It's an ideal choice for special occasions like birthdays, providing a memorable and romantic setting.The restaurant specializes in Jamaican cuisine, serving classic dishes with a twist. From flavorful jerk chicken to fresh seafood options, the Houseboat Grill offers a delightful dining experience that showcases the best of Jamaican flavors.Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available at Scotchies?At Scotchies, you'll be delighted to find a few vegetarian and vegan options on their menu. They take pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that even non-meat eaters can enjoy the authentic flavors of Jamaica. While Jamaican cuisine is known for its meat dishes, Scotchies offers a variety of plant-based choices such as roasted vegetables, grilled plantains, and flavorful vegetable skewers.Scotchies is definitely one of the best places in Montego Bay for vegetarian and vegan food.What Makes Juici Patties a Popular Fast-Food Chain in Montego Bay?The secret to Juici Patties' success in Montego Bay lies in its convenient locations and must-try patties.As a popular fast-food chain since the 1980s, Juici Patties offers a wide variety of delicious patties, especially the beef and vegetable options. Additionally, they also serve a filling Ackee & Saltfish plate.With their quick service and easy accessibility, it's no wonder why Juici Patties has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike in Montego Bay.What Sets Tokyo Jos Apart From Other Asian Restaurants in Sandals Montego Bay?Tokyo Jos stands out from other Asian restaurants in Sandals Montego Bay with its unique take on Asian fusion cuisine. As one of the best Asian restaurants in Montego Bay, Tokyo Jos offers a diverse menu that combines flavors from different Asian cultures.The restaurant prides itself on its flavorful dishes, attentive service, and affordable prices. With its casual atmosphere and convenient location within Sandals Montego Bay, Tokyo Jos is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Asian cuisine.ConclusionIn conclusion, the culinary scene in Montego Bay, Jamaica is a true feast for the senses. From the exotic flavors of Mystic Thai to the elegant ambiance of Sugar Mill, there's a restaurant to suit every taste and occasion.Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Montego Bay has it all. So get ready to indulge in mouthwatering dishes and create unforgettable memories. Your taste buds will thank you for it! submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 16:51 Obvious_Ad4159 Twice Awoken (Pilot chapter)
It has been 20 years since the first calamity struck Earth. A massive wave of solar radiation from a nearby star known as Prometheus 673B showered our solar system in 2025. Electronics have been rendered useless for months, giving humanity the glimpse of what life was like long before. But that was merely temporary. The true effect of the solar flare came in the form of an illness, that afflicted roughly 10% of the current population. Unlike anything we've ever seen, the illness did not kill, rather enhanced the afflicted. For the first time in human history, the term Esper was used seriously. Dubbed the Awoken, those afflicted with illness that stemmed from the solar flare of Prometheus, gained the ability to manifest their own thoughts into reality, with varying degrees of success. At first, nations and laws, society as whole, was not prepared to deal with these new humans and their abilities. Crime ran rampant for a while.
Five years after the incident, the world banded together in a unified front, known as the AMA, The Awoken Management Agency, a world wide agency tasked with handling and controlling the Awoken, allowing humanity to once more function as a whole. Satellites have been sent out as far Earth's gaze into space could reach, to watch our for any other potential cosmic events that may occur, like the one that happened with Prometheus back in '25.
Now, 20 years since the first incident, the satellites have picked up another major cosmic event on the horizon, this time coming from the Aquila constellation. Is humanity ready to withstand whatever cosmos has prepared for it?
[]
"Kenji. Wake up! You'll be later for your lectures, again."
The young man groaned, slowly turning to his side in bed, looking at his mother that stood at the doorway. "I'm up, I'm up."
Yawning and stretching, he sat up in bed, running his fingers through his hair, before turning to check the small clock on his nightstand.
"Wha? Late? Mom, it's only 8. Lectures don't start until 10." He sighed.
"Oh well. No need to cut it short, right? Plus, I've made breakfast." His mother replied and went back downstairs.
[]
AMA Information Database:
Kenji Aoto. Age: 21 Category: Type 1 Awoken Ability: Embodiment. The unique ability of Kenji Aoto, unlike other Awoken of the same type, allows him to alter his own body based on how he feels. Most Type 1s change their environment around them, rather than themselves. Type 1s are classified as such for having abilities that considered non dangerous to the general non awoken population.
[]
"We've got a lot of promising talent this year huh?" Nathaniel said to his daughter, as the two looked down at the auditorium full of students. The dean of the university was preparing his usual welcoming speech, as the assistants tried to quiet down the murmurs of the students.
"Yeah, we sure do." Clara smiled, not taking her eyes off the scene. "Quite a good number of Awoken too."
"Anyone interesting in particular?" Nathaniel asked.
"No, not really. They all have the standard abilities you would expect out of a type 1. Same level of control to boot." She responded.
"Well, I look forward to being their professor." Her father smiled, inhaling deeply. "The smell of youthful energy, so amazing. I can still remember your first day as a freshman."
Clara blushed a bit, nudging him in the ribs with her elbow. "Shouldn't you be down there giving your speech, Dr. Offset?"
Nathaniel rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly embarrasses laugh to boot. "Oh don't call me that. Ahem, yeah. I'll be going now. See you later for lunch?"
"Of course dad." Clara smiled, giving her father a little wave as he left the teacher conference room.
[]
AMA Information database:
Clara Harris. Age: 32 Category: Non-Awoken (regular human) The lead ambassador for Awoken rights and unification in the AMA. Daughter of the lead researcher in Awoken development and the head teacher of the Awoken department in Nagoya University, Japan, Nathaniel Harris.
Nathaniel Harris. Age: 55 Category: Type 2 Awoken Ability: Offset. Acquired during the first Prometheus flare, the ability of Dr. Offset (he thought the name was cool when he was in his 20s), allows him to offset numerical values. Though touching an object is not required to use the ability on it, the potency of the ability greatly improved when he has direct contact with it. This also extends to, in theory, numerical values pertaining to objects and their position in space, relative to Nathaniel. Meaning he can move objects or parts of them relative to where he's standing, by changing their coordinates, however there were no recorded instances of him doing so. Examples include: Increasing or reducing the temperature of a beverage by direct contact. Increasing or decreasing friction on a surface of an object temporarily by touching it.
In his youth, Nathaniel attempted to become a sort of hero, once his powers kicked in, but due to the very low potency of his abilities, he never really managed to make the cut as one, despite being a type 2. Type 2s are classified as such due to having abilities that could be considered dangerous, powerful or harmful for the general non awoken population.
[]
Location: Russia, Siberia. Time: 22:37 Facility: Maximum security prison for Awoken criminals in Russia, cell block 5.
Theodore laid in his bunk, staring at the ceiling. Each of his breaths released a soft cloud of vapor, that commonly occurs when someone is in a cold environment. In his case, the vapor was a byproduct of his ability, rather than the cold cell we was in. A thug with a love for violence, turned bank robber when his abilities fully developed, Theodore terrorized Russia and the neighboring countries. It wasn't until the AMA was finally assembled and operational, that he was arrested and sentenced to multiple life sentences in this highest security prison that Russia had at a time.
Even after being sent behind bars, he kept up his antics, becoming a nightmare for the guards and inmates alike. No man that was placed in a cell with him would last more than a few days before demanding transfer. Some even lost their lives to the former thugs whims, before their transfer requests could be approved. Hence Theodore has been placed in solitary, a cell designed with all the tech necessary to nullify his ability. There he spent the last 10 years of his life.
Despite being a type 1, an awoken with abilities that were not classified as dangerous to the general population, Theodore managed to use them to their fullest extent. His blessing of temperature manipulation, was a curse to everyone around him.
He looked outside, at the night sky, through his small cell window. Apparently, there was a big stellar event, similar to the one 20 years ago, that gave him the powers he now has. He heard guards and other inmates talk about it, how AMA is now prepared for such an event.
Theodore closed his eyes, imagining what this aurora would look like. The memory of that night, when Prometheus 673B's flare struck earth still fresh in his mind like it was yesterday. The otherworldly mixture of reds and yellows and greens. Like a primordial fire that was lit across the night sky.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps outside his cell snapped him out of his memory.
"Huh?" He adjusted in bed, to see who was outside his cell.
A man, in a white cloak with golden details, stood outside his cell. Theodore was confused. The man was not one of the guards, he was bare footed and did not wear any uniform. And no way he was one of the other inmates, no one had the capabilities to leave their cells without being let out.
"Hey, who the hell are you? How did you get here? The guards letting us out or something?" The criminal walked over to his cell door. The bars were made of material that could withstand sudden changes in temperature without bending or breaking, preventing him from getting out.
The man said nothing, he didn't even turn towards the convict, he merely stood there, hood covering his as he looked up at the night sky through the decorative windows on the buildings roof.
"Hey asshat! I asked you a question. How the fuck did you get out of your cell? C'mon man, don't be a dick, let me out too." Theodore grabbed the bars and rattled them.
The cloaked man finally turned towards him. The convict was stunned, only for a second. The man has a beard and long hair, both as white as his cloak. But his eyes, they were as blue as the midday sky. He could have sworn energy seemed to pour out of them. Before he could say another word, the figure before him extended his hand at him, and with a snap of his fingers, a bold of lightning struck Theodore square in the chest. The convict was send flying, back hitting the wall opposite the cell doors.
[]
Location: Brazil, San Paolo. Time: 16:37 Facility: Remodeled Taubaté Prison, cell block 3.
Vitor sat on the bench press, just finishing a set, looking over the prison yard. Even behind bars, his connections did not dwindle. A former petty drug dealer, Vitor Alves quickly rose to power and influence once his powers awoke. He employed other Awoken with criminal tendencies as his own personal task force to drive all other competition into the ground. Once he held the entirety of San Paolo's drug empire in his hand, he set his sights farther. We wanted the entire city for himself, believing that no one could challenge his claim to that right.
With the help of the AMA, the Brazilian government swiftly put his plan to rest, and Vitor behind bars. The fight between the Awoken under Alves and the AMA/Brazilian forces was indeed a bloody one and resulted in a good number of civilian casualties. The drug lord was sent to Taubate, where he would spend the rest of his life. The prison was remodeled, per AMA standards, to be fully equipped and capable of holding Awoken criminals.
Despite having powers of temperature manipulation, capable of increasing temperature to lethal amounts, Vitor did not believe that to be his strongest ability. Money, influence, connections, those were real power, what truly carried him to the top of the criminal world.
Even now, as he sat on the bench press, doing a few reps before looking over the yard, Vitor was not powerless in the outside world. He waited on his informant, his connection to the outside, to appear so he could delegate orders to what was left of his followers and empire on the outside.
He wasn't sure if it was something he ate, or the heat from the pounding sun. Maybe it was even that sky flare that he heard AMA guards mention. Something indeed felt off, his vision seemed a bit blurry. As if the entire prison courtyard was moving slowly right before him. But the informant should be there soon, so Vitor decided not to go back to his cell just yet.
The other inmates, guards, even the basketball that the inmates played hoops with, suddenly slowed down to a halt. Through the statue like crowd, a single figure moved over to Vitor. His feet were bare, his body and face hidden behind a hooded cloak. The drug lord could only see his white beard and his eyes, as they seemed to be glowing a faint blue glow. Before he even got a chance to speak, the man extended his hand towards him and with a smirk, snapped his fingers, sending a bolt of lightning straight into the mans body, causing Vitor to fly several feet and collapse on the ground.
[]
"Ugh... What the fuck man?" Theodore cursed, as he regained his consciousness. Slowly, he got up to his knees, his head pounding like he was struck by a hammer. The cell felt colder than before. Looking around, he saw the entire cell frozen, every surface covered by a thick layer of ice. Bed, toilet, the cell doors, frozen solid. And the ice shifted. With every movement of his hands, the ice followed.
"Could it be?" The inmate whispered, focusing his mind, channeling his ability. Ice began to form in the palm of his hand, morphing freely. With a single wave of his hand, the frozen bed shattered into bits and pieces. Theodore inhaled, getting up to his feet, head still in pain. But the realization was crystal clear. He could now freeze things without having to touch them, manipulate what he froze, as well create ice out by freezing the water in the air. With a grin plastered across his face, Theodore thanked the mysterious man, of who there was not a single trace left, and decided that he's busting himself out of prison.
[]
"WARNING! WARNING! WARNING. PRISON BREAKS DETECTED ACROSS MULTIPLE AMA FACILITIES!" Blared the system on screen at the Awoken Management Agency in Nagoya. Other HQs across the globe received the same warning.
"What the hell is going on?" Clara said, running into the monitoring hall.
"I don't know. Prison breaks, across multiple locations world wide." Kaito replied, his eyes not leaving the monitors as he fired up the surveillance drones on the impacted locations.
"The main facilities that were absolutely totaled are Siberia and San Paolo." He continued.
"Think it could be?" Clara asked.
"Not possible. The protection against solar flares was at full power. Not a single particle should have hit the ground. I mean, we didn't lose any tech, unlike last time." Kaito shot her question down, pulling up the drone feed of the two prisons.
Taubate was in flames. The entire facility seemed to be entirely engulfed in a raging fire. The Russian counterpart held no better either. The entire prison was torn apart by massive glacier like formations, that seemed to jut out of the ground.
Clara, Kaito and other technicians presents stared, slackjawed, at the live drone feed. Something like that was not possible, no Awoken held that level of power. Not even if multiple Awoken united, could they produce that level of destruction across such a large area.
"Wait wait! What's that? Zoom in on one of the glaciers!" One of the technicians said, pointing at the big monitors.
Kaito's fingers flew across the keyboard, as the drone moved closer and the video on screen zoomed to its maximum. On one of the glacier formations, sat a man, clearly an inmate based on the jumpsuit he was wearing.
"Running identification." Chimed the computer.
"Inmate 4012: Theodore Ivarovski. Age: 36. Category: Type 1 Awoken. Ability: Low drop. His ability allows him to significantly drop the temperature of anything he touches, almost instantly."
"He's a type 1. No way in hell that he could pull of something like this." Clara said, eyes glued to the screed. "He must have re-awoken, there is no other explanation."
"Clara, in the last 20 years since the Prometheus, there was never a single instance of that happening. Some Awoken do push their abilities past the initial capabilities, but that's usually the end of it. It's a conspiracy theory." Kaito mumbled.
"Then how do you explain THAT?" She said, pointing at a massive piece of ice that was quickly forming above Ivarovski, before being sent flying towards the drone and cutting off the live feed.
[]
(Howdy y'all. This is a bit different from my usual write style, with a more manga like story/narration instead of the standard story/novel format I do. I hope you like it, I came up with it months ago, but due to time constrains with work I haven't gotten around to writing it. Based on how it's received, I may continue this along side Sand & Steel. You can read S&S on here:
Royal Road
Wattpad
Scribble Hub
Hope y'all have a nice day.
-M.W.A.)
submitted by Obvious_Ad4159 to HFY [link] [comments]
Five years after the incident, the world banded together in a unified front, known as the AMA, The Awoken Management Agency, a world wide agency tasked with handling and controlling the Awoken, allowing humanity to once more function as a whole. Satellites have been sent out as far Earth's gaze into space could reach, to watch our for any other potential cosmic events that may occur, like the one that happened with Prometheus back in '25.
Now, 20 years since the first incident, the satellites have picked up another major cosmic event on the horizon, this time coming from the Aquila constellation. Is humanity ready to withstand whatever cosmos has prepared for it?
[]
"Kenji. Wake up! You'll be later for your lectures, again."
The young man groaned, slowly turning to his side in bed, looking at his mother that stood at the doorway. "I'm up, I'm up."
Yawning and stretching, he sat up in bed, running his fingers through his hair, before turning to check the small clock on his nightstand.
"Wha? Late? Mom, it's only 8. Lectures don't start until 10." He sighed.
"Oh well. No need to cut it short, right? Plus, I've made breakfast." His mother replied and went back downstairs.
[]
AMA Information Database:
Kenji Aoto. Age: 21 Category: Type 1 Awoken Ability: Embodiment. The unique ability of Kenji Aoto, unlike other Awoken of the same type, allows him to alter his own body based on how he feels. Most Type 1s change their environment around them, rather than themselves. Type 1s are classified as such for having abilities that considered non dangerous to the general non awoken population.
[]
"We've got a lot of promising talent this year huh?" Nathaniel said to his daughter, as the two looked down at the auditorium full of students. The dean of the university was preparing his usual welcoming speech, as the assistants tried to quiet down the murmurs of the students.
"Yeah, we sure do." Clara smiled, not taking her eyes off the scene. "Quite a good number of Awoken too."
"Anyone interesting in particular?" Nathaniel asked.
"No, not really. They all have the standard abilities you would expect out of a type 1. Same level of control to boot." She responded.
"Well, I look forward to being their professor." Her father smiled, inhaling deeply. "The smell of youthful energy, so amazing. I can still remember your first day as a freshman."
Clara blushed a bit, nudging him in the ribs with her elbow. "Shouldn't you be down there giving your speech, Dr. Offset?"
Nathaniel rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly embarrasses laugh to boot. "Oh don't call me that. Ahem, yeah. I'll be going now. See you later for lunch?"
"Of course dad." Clara smiled, giving her father a little wave as he left the teacher conference room.
[]
AMA Information database:
Clara Harris. Age: 32 Category: Non-Awoken (regular human) The lead ambassador for Awoken rights and unification in the AMA. Daughter of the lead researcher in Awoken development and the head teacher of the Awoken department in Nagoya University, Japan, Nathaniel Harris.
Nathaniel Harris. Age: 55 Category: Type 2 Awoken Ability: Offset. Acquired during the first Prometheus flare, the ability of Dr. Offset (he thought the name was cool when he was in his 20s), allows him to offset numerical values. Though touching an object is not required to use the ability on it, the potency of the ability greatly improved when he has direct contact with it. This also extends to, in theory, numerical values pertaining to objects and their position in space, relative to Nathaniel. Meaning he can move objects or parts of them relative to where he's standing, by changing their coordinates, however there were no recorded instances of him doing so. Examples include: Increasing or reducing the temperature of a beverage by direct contact. Increasing or decreasing friction on a surface of an object temporarily by touching it.
In his youth, Nathaniel attempted to become a sort of hero, once his powers kicked in, but due to the very low potency of his abilities, he never really managed to make the cut as one, despite being a type 2. Type 2s are classified as such due to having abilities that could be considered dangerous, powerful or harmful for the general non awoken population.
[]
Location: Russia, Siberia. Time: 22:37 Facility: Maximum security prison for Awoken criminals in Russia, cell block 5.
Theodore laid in his bunk, staring at the ceiling. Each of his breaths released a soft cloud of vapor, that commonly occurs when someone is in a cold environment. In his case, the vapor was a byproduct of his ability, rather than the cold cell we was in. A thug with a love for violence, turned bank robber when his abilities fully developed, Theodore terrorized Russia and the neighboring countries. It wasn't until the AMA was finally assembled and operational, that he was arrested and sentenced to multiple life sentences in this highest security prison that Russia had at a time.
Even after being sent behind bars, he kept up his antics, becoming a nightmare for the guards and inmates alike. No man that was placed in a cell with him would last more than a few days before demanding transfer. Some even lost their lives to the former thugs whims, before their transfer requests could be approved. Hence Theodore has been placed in solitary, a cell designed with all the tech necessary to nullify his ability. There he spent the last 10 years of his life.
Despite being a type 1, an awoken with abilities that were not classified as dangerous to the general population, Theodore managed to use them to their fullest extent. His blessing of temperature manipulation, was a curse to everyone around him.
He looked outside, at the night sky, through his small cell window. Apparently, there was a big stellar event, similar to the one 20 years ago, that gave him the powers he now has. He heard guards and other inmates talk about it, how AMA is now prepared for such an event.
Theodore closed his eyes, imagining what this aurora would look like. The memory of that night, when Prometheus 673B's flare struck earth still fresh in his mind like it was yesterday. The otherworldly mixture of reds and yellows and greens. Like a primordial fire that was lit across the night sky.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps outside his cell snapped him out of his memory.
"Huh?" He adjusted in bed, to see who was outside his cell.
A man, in a white cloak with golden details, stood outside his cell. Theodore was confused. The man was not one of the guards, he was bare footed and did not wear any uniform. And no way he was one of the other inmates, no one had the capabilities to leave their cells without being let out.
"Hey, who the hell are you? How did you get here? The guards letting us out or something?" The criminal walked over to his cell door. The bars were made of material that could withstand sudden changes in temperature without bending or breaking, preventing him from getting out.
The man said nothing, he didn't even turn towards the convict, he merely stood there, hood covering his as he looked up at the night sky through the decorative windows on the buildings roof.
"Hey asshat! I asked you a question. How the fuck did you get out of your cell? C'mon man, don't be a dick, let me out too." Theodore grabbed the bars and rattled them.
The cloaked man finally turned towards him. The convict was stunned, only for a second. The man has a beard and long hair, both as white as his cloak. But his eyes, they were as blue as the midday sky. He could have sworn energy seemed to pour out of them. Before he could say another word, the figure before him extended his hand at him, and with a snap of his fingers, a bold of lightning struck Theodore square in the chest. The convict was send flying, back hitting the wall opposite the cell doors.
[]
Location: Brazil, San Paolo. Time: 16:37 Facility: Remodeled Taubaté Prison, cell block 3.
Vitor sat on the bench press, just finishing a set, looking over the prison yard. Even behind bars, his connections did not dwindle. A former petty drug dealer, Vitor Alves quickly rose to power and influence once his powers awoke. He employed other Awoken with criminal tendencies as his own personal task force to drive all other competition into the ground. Once he held the entirety of San Paolo's drug empire in his hand, he set his sights farther. We wanted the entire city for himself, believing that no one could challenge his claim to that right.
With the help of the AMA, the Brazilian government swiftly put his plan to rest, and Vitor behind bars. The fight between the Awoken under Alves and the AMA/Brazilian forces was indeed a bloody one and resulted in a good number of civilian casualties. The drug lord was sent to Taubate, where he would spend the rest of his life. The prison was remodeled, per AMA standards, to be fully equipped and capable of holding Awoken criminals.
Despite having powers of temperature manipulation, capable of increasing temperature to lethal amounts, Vitor did not believe that to be his strongest ability. Money, influence, connections, those were real power, what truly carried him to the top of the criminal world.
Even now, as he sat on the bench press, doing a few reps before looking over the yard, Vitor was not powerless in the outside world. He waited on his informant, his connection to the outside, to appear so he could delegate orders to what was left of his followers and empire on the outside.
He wasn't sure if it was something he ate, or the heat from the pounding sun. Maybe it was even that sky flare that he heard AMA guards mention. Something indeed felt off, his vision seemed a bit blurry. As if the entire prison courtyard was moving slowly right before him. But the informant should be there soon, so Vitor decided not to go back to his cell just yet.
The other inmates, guards, even the basketball that the inmates played hoops with, suddenly slowed down to a halt. Through the statue like crowd, a single figure moved over to Vitor. His feet were bare, his body and face hidden behind a hooded cloak. The drug lord could only see his white beard and his eyes, as they seemed to be glowing a faint blue glow. Before he even got a chance to speak, the man extended his hand towards him and with a smirk, snapped his fingers, sending a bolt of lightning straight into the mans body, causing Vitor to fly several feet and collapse on the ground.
[]
"Ugh... What the fuck man?" Theodore cursed, as he regained his consciousness. Slowly, he got up to his knees, his head pounding like he was struck by a hammer. The cell felt colder than before. Looking around, he saw the entire cell frozen, every surface covered by a thick layer of ice. Bed, toilet, the cell doors, frozen solid. And the ice shifted. With every movement of his hands, the ice followed.
"Could it be?" The inmate whispered, focusing his mind, channeling his ability. Ice began to form in the palm of his hand, morphing freely. With a single wave of his hand, the frozen bed shattered into bits and pieces. Theodore inhaled, getting up to his feet, head still in pain. But the realization was crystal clear. He could now freeze things without having to touch them, manipulate what he froze, as well create ice out by freezing the water in the air. With a grin plastered across his face, Theodore thanked the mysterious man, of who there was not a single trace left, and decided that he's busting himself out of prison.
[]
"WARNING! WARNING! WARNING. PRISON BREAKS DETECTED ACROSS MULTIPLE AMA FACILITIES!" Blared the system on screen at the Awoken Management Agency in Nagoya. Other HQs across the globe received the same warning.
"What the hell is going on?" Clara said, running into the monitoring hall.
"I don't know. Prison breaks, across multiple locations world wide." Kaito replied, his eyes not leaving the monitors as he fired up the surveillance drones on the impacted locations.
"The main facilities that were absolutely totaled are Siberia and San Paolo." He continued.
"Think it could be?" Clara asked.
"Not possible. The protection against solar flares was at full power. Not a single particle should have hit the ground. I mean, we didn't lose any tech, unlike last time." Kaito shot her question down, pulling up the drone feed of the two prisons.
Taubate was in flames. The entire facility seemed to be entirely engulfed in a raging fire. The Russian counterpart held no better either. The entire prison was torn apart by massive glacier like formations, that seemed to jut out of the ground.
Clara, Kaito and other technicians presents stared, slackjawed, at the live drone feed. Something like that was not possible, no Awoken held that level of power. Not even if multiple Awoken united, could they produce that level of destruction across such a large area.
"Wait wait! What's that? Zoom in on one of the glaciers!" One of the technicians said, pointing at the big monitors.
Kaito's fingers flew across the keyboard, as the drone moved closer and the video on screen zoomed to its maximum. On one of the glacier formations, sat a man, clearly an inmate based on the jumpsuit he was wearing.
"Running identification." Chimed the computer.
"Inmate 4012: Theodore Ivarovski. Age: 36. Category: Type 1 Awoken. Ability: Low drop. His ability allows him to significantly drop the temperature of anything he touches, almost instantly."
"He's a type 1. No way in hell that he could pull of something like this." Clara said, eyes glued to the screed. "He must have re-awoken, there is no other explanation."
"Clara, in the last 20 years since the Prometheus, there was never a single instance of that happening. Some Awoken do push their abilities past the initial capabilities, but that's usually the end of it. It's a conspiracy theory." Kaito mumbled.
"Then how do you explain THAT?" She said, pointing at a massive piece of ice that was quickly forming above Ivarovski, before being sent flying towards the drone and cutting off the live feed.
[]
(Howdy y'all. This is a bit different from my usual write style, with a more manga like story/narration instead of the standard story/novel format I do. I hope you like it, I came up with it months ago, but due to time constrains with work I haven't gotten around to writing it. Based on how it's received, I may continue this along side Sand & Steel. You can read S&S on here:
Royal Road
Wattpad
Scribble Hub
Hope y'all have a nice day.
-M.W.A.)
2024.05.19 16:48 jenniferami Why can’t H get himself out of the role of second fiddle 🎻to M?
Most agree that M needs H more than H needs M. He’s the blood royal after all.
But H has gone from being second fiddle to the Prince of Wales to being second fiddle to M.
H stands behind and walks behind M like Princess Anne’s husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence stands and walks behind Princess Anne. But Timothy Laurence isn’t the royal.
Does H think M would make a scene if he went first?
Does he feel the way she bobs and weaves that she’d always be able to sneak back in front?
Would the repercussions at home be too bad? The silent treatment or even worse the non-silent treatment?
Is he scared of losing her? He seems miserable with her.
What’s the risk of him asserting himself?
Is he afraid she has dirt on him? Hasn’t he already spilled everything in his bargain basement book?
What would she do without him? She needs him and yet continues to walk all over him.
Is it really that difficult to stand up to M?
What are your thoughts?
submitted by jenniferami to SaintMeghanMarkle [link] [comments]
But H has gone from being second fiddle to the Prince of Wales to being second fiddle to M.
H stands behind and walks behind M like Princess Anne’s husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence stands and walks behind Princess Anne. But Timothy Laurence isn’t the royal.
Does H think M would make a scene if he went first?
Does he feel the way she bobs and weaves that she’d always be able to sneak back in front?
Would the repercussions at home be too bad? The silent treatment or even worse the non-silent treatment?
Is he scared of losing her? He seems miserable with her.
What’s the risk of him asserting himself?
Is he afraid she has dirt on him? Hasn’t he already spilled everything in his bargain basement book?
What would she do without him? She needs him and yet continues to walk all over him.
Is it really that difficult to stand up to M?
What are your thoughts?
2024.05.19 16:46 E_Latimer The old lady in the Bodega isn’t what she seems.
I think a lot about signals. Signals that show people what groups they belong to. Signals that hide the truth. Everybody uses signals to blend, entice, or trap.
Grandma Pearl died not long after her stroke, and I've been making bad decisions ever since. Maybe my expectations are too high, or I'm just an idiot. Either way, I ran away from the group home to be with people who called themselves my "family." They were the wrong people. They used the words family, brother, sister, and love like lock picks, stealing trust, and taking self-respect.
The only person I remember using the word family correctly was Grandma Pearl. She was a small woman who toured the US as an actress before settling with Granddad above their theatrical rentals shop. I was three when the car accident took Granddad and Mom, so I don't know if they used the word "family" correctly, but I hope they did.
I was never as outgoing as Grandma, but that didn't bother her; she taught me how to watch people. How to see their signals, and how to listen. When she died. I forgot a lot of those lessons for a while.
They called it a "family". The "family" moved product. That product could be goods, drugs, or people.
The uninitiated, like me, were distracted with food and a dry place to sleep, but it didn't take long to see behind the curtain. Things got too intense with the new "family" and I ran.
I ran back to my old neighborhood. The buildings were familiar even if my home was gone. The old theatrical shop had been turned into a microbrewery.
After an appropriate amount of self-pity, thirty minutes, I wandered the alleys, picking up cans or scavenging for bits and pieces that could be recycled, used, or bartered.
I recognized old faces, but I tried to stay out of sight. It was safer that way.
The only place I allowed myself to be seen was the old Lutheran church on the park's far side. Most people who might have known me had aged out of the congregation or died. It was worth the risk because St. Lazarus had a food pantry in the basement and gave out lunches most days, so I wasn't always hungry, which was nice.
I found a dry spot near the library to sleep, which seemed like a stroke of luck until it wasn't.
I had the contentment that came with being in a familiar place. Little bits of comfort let me believe, for a moment, that I wasn't a screw-up and hadn't trusted the wrong people. That moment scurried away when Stick found me.
Stick was a scary asshole. He technically wasn't in charge of the " family," but he made it work. He got things done. I have no idea how old he was. He was all corded muscle and could clock in between twenty and fifty. He looked half-starved and moved like a stalking predator, even with his limp.
His left leg was stiff. The knee didn't bend, and anytime he sat, his left leg would be splayed to the side like a kickstand on a bike. The leg was why he walked with a cane. The cane and how he used it was why we called him Stick.
I don't know why he took the time to track me down. It's not like I was wanted. Maybe it was that I had become property. Property shouldn't just wander off.
Sometimes, you feel a person before you see them. The air is different. When Stick was around, the air felt dead and motionless. I knew I was being watched before I opened my eyes.
Stick was sitting on a milk crate, his bad leg cocked to the side and his forehead resting on his cane. I pushed myself out from beneath the ductwork of the HVAC unit I had been sleeping under and slapped the dirt off my jeans.
"I thought that was you," Stick said as his sharp grin curved up to his unblinking dark eyes.
Stick wanted my discomfort. I'd seen him play the intimidation game too many times. He'd act too friendly, and then when you were good and worried, quick movements, a hand around the back of your neck, and violence would be next. Then he'd act like the whole mind fuck was a big joke, like you were friends, and isn't it great that you can joke around with someone who "really" cared.
It worked, too. If you were the unfortunate focus of Stick's attention, you would be grateful when he smiled and said, "Just a joke, kid. Don't be so sensitive." I'd seen the pattern enough times to know Stick trained people like dogs with his hot and cold game. I didn't like the game, or the fear, so I changed the pattern.
"Hey, Stick, did you come to help pick up cans?" I asked, making sure my smile reached my eyes. I was trying to be pleasant while ignoring the burning nervousness in my gut.
It was still dark out, but I could see Stick's expressions well enough.
Stick tapped his cane on the sidewalk and squinted at me skeptically before answering. "Just checking on my little brother."
We were not related.
Stick liked to call the uninitiated his little brothers or little sisters. He forced intimacy into his language. I didn't argue the point. Interactions went best with Stick when you agreed with everything he said.
"Thanks, man," I complimented, trying to sound genuine and ignorant as I stepped forward and offered him my hand.
Stick didn't move, but I could see that this conversation wasn't going as planned for him, and I forced myself not to react to his confusion. I couldn't break character, or he would know I was playing him.
Stick tapped his cane on the ground twice, grasped my hand, and stood. He watched me. I held his stare, but in an open, naive, guileless way that I had perfected in front of the mirror as grandma gave acting advice while she put her face on.
I once asked Grandma Perl why anyone would practice acting stupid. She pointed her mascara brush at me and, in her ditsiest Minnesota Nice character, said, "It's easier to be forgiven when people think you're a little dumb, don't ya know?" Like with most things, Grandma was right.
Before I understood what had happened, Stick pulled me into his side and slung an arm around my shoulder.
"You don't have a name yet. Everyone gets a name, but they don't get to pick it." He paused and gave me a Cheshire cat grin. "I have a name for you, little brother. You are going to be called Slide." Then he held my chin and forced eye contact." Your name will be Slide because I have never seen anyone slide out of shit faster than you. I can't tell if you do it on purpose or not, and I've been watching. I watch everybody. You do, too. Hell, this might be the first time I've ever heard you talk. So let's celebrate your name, Slide." Stick's smile slipped as he pulled me out of the alley. "We'll go do something special."
I stayed silent, knowing full well what was coming. Being named meant doing something you could never take back. It was public and would put you in prison if the police ever took the time to look for you. It meant severing yourself from your life before and relying entirely on the "family." I had been absent each time naming seemed to be in the cards, but I couldn't duck out this time.
There was only one place to go at this time of night that would have an impact, the Bodega.
The Bodega was a red hole in the wall with a glass door papered over with grocery ads years outdated. Canned salmon two for one seemed to be the dominant theme. Although there were two large windows, one on either side of the door, you could barely see in. The right window was a tapestry of cigarette promotions. The left window displayed the only swath of uncovered glass with a view of the interior. From the outside, the view was of tobacco, lottery scratchers, and Old Lady Imitari.
Old Lady Imitari owned the store. She was a short, dark-haired woman who always wore a long floral tank top. Grandma Pearl loved the old woman but said Imitari looked like an old man's thumb all the years she had known her, and Grandma moved to the neighborhood with Grandad thirty years ago. Imitari was a local legend even then because the Bodega was open twenty hours a day, three hundred sixty-five days a year, and no one else worked in the store. Grandma used to make an extra strong coffee called Barako and chat with Imitari sometimes when work in the shop was slow.
I would sneak out at night and try to catch Imitari sleeping. No matter the time, I never caught her snoozing, and she always saw me peeking at her through the window. I know she saw me because she would uncross her arms and wave her flyswatter at me.
All these memories flicked through my mind as Stick smiled his too-wide smile and pushed me into the Bodega.
Imitari flicked her fly swatter at me in acknowledgment, and her attention returned to the small TV she had nestled beside the cash register, which seemed to be the old woman's only real tether to the world outside her shop.
The inside of the Bodega was just a long hallway with shelves of convenience foods, drinks, home supplies, candy, and cold meds covering every available surface from floor to ceiling. The only break in the tunnel of products was the glass counter at the back corner of the store; Imitari presided over her mini domain by casually ignoring her shoppers. I tried to make eye contact with the old woman again as Stick pushed me to the back of the shop, but after her initial acknowledgment of our entrance, Imitari's eyes stayed focused on her TV.
As casually confident as possible, I walked to the cooler and grabbed an iced tea. "Want a drink," I asked over my shoulder, my voice unusually steady, given the electric current of anxiety flowing through me.
Stick sneered and tapped his cane twice on the ground. His eyes found all the security cameras in the tiny store, a frown creasing his angular features.
I followed his line of sight and finally realized what had bothered him. The cameras were fake. They looked like security cameras, but they weren't. There were no wires or lenses, just rectangles and circles in a security camera shape.
Stick took a deep breath and tapped his cane on the ground again. " There… is … so… much… here… to… see… but… no… one… is… watching," he said with a singsong. Then his sneer turned into a cruel smile.
I knew Stick wanted an audience for what he would force me to do. The fact that the security cameras were fakes meant that whatever was going to happen would now have to be significant. An event that the neighborhood wouldn't be able to ignore. My stomach twisted with the thought.
Stick waggled his eyebrows at me. He had been watching. He had seen my thoughts, and we both knew he had something terrible in mind.
The cane twirled in Stick's hand and then tapped twice on the shop tile.
"I think I want a little bit of this," Stick said, gesturing wildly with his cane, sending a row of soup cans tumbling to the floor. "And a little bit of that," Stick added as another wild gesture sent cups of ramen spinning and knocking glass bottles of hot sauce to the floor.
I stood paralyzed, unable to run. I was trapped with nowhere to duck away to. I didn't want Stick to hurt Old Lady Imitari, and I didn't want Stick to hurt me, either. The truth was, he would hurt both of us no matter what I did. That was just the way Stick was. I'd seen him. I'd seen him show us who he was every day.
Then I realized Imitari hadn't moved. She was watching her TV and chuckling at the sitcom as if nothing had happened.
Stick glanced at me, confused. I almost felt sorry for the sociopath. His night was not going to plan.
Imitari chuckled at her TV again, and a crease formed in the middle of Stick's forehead, letting me know that he was beyond angry. He was calm, dangerous, and vicious. People had been left for dead when Stick got this way.
Stick raised his cane and flipped it so the handle jutted like a pickax. He was going to attack Imitari.
Somehow, I moved. I didn't do much, but when I slid forward and grabbed the back of Stick's shirt, the cane missed Imitari, and the sharp handle punctured the thick glass top of the counter just above a roll of Lotto scratchers.
Old lady Imitari slowly looked up into Stick's eyes and smiled. Her wide, gentle frown was replaced with a look of joy and something else, something primal, something hungry. Her pupils were blown, and I had the uneasy feeling that I was watching someone be served their absolute favorite meal.
Before Stick could pull his cane from the punctured glass, Imitari casually reached forward, grabbed the cane, and pulled the wirey man forward. Small, old, and wrinkled, Imitari stared into Stick's eyes and overpowered him.
Stick fell forward across the counter. He tried to push himself back, but Imitari's hand clamped down on his wrist like a vice.
Bones ground together as Imitari pulled Stick's hand to her mouth, and with a swift, subtle movement, she bit off the tips of Stick's pinky and ring finger like she was sampling a cookie.
I jumped back next to the cooler as a thin spray of blood arched toward me.
Stick screamed and thrashed, but Imitari's small form was static and immovable. Stick was a fly in a trap. No matter how much he struggled, punched, poked, or kicked, he could not break the old woman's hold. Then, slowly, she took another bite.
It was strangely fascinating watching the frail form of this old woman I had known for years take bite after bite out of Stick. This man, whom I thought of as a predator, a hunter, an enforcer, was crying and begging while an old woman, who looked like a wrinkled thumb in a floral top, quietly devoured him.
I was surprised by the lack of blood after the first spray. I'm sure it was Imitari's crushing grip that stanched the flow of blood. The flesh of Stick's arm looked white from the pressure.
Hand over hand, Imitari pulled Stick forward. Bones cracked as she gripped higher on Stick's arm, clamped down with her long leathery fingers, and fed the flesh and bone, one concise bite at a time, into her open smiling maw. It was rhythmical in its simplicity: chomp, crunch, chew, chew, swallow. Over and over, the pattern continued until the begging stopped.
Stick wasn't dead. He gave up. Not struggling, he laid over the glass counter like a rag doll. He watched me glassily as Imitari took bite after bite, and I knew he wasn't there anymore. Whatever made Stick Stick had either curled up and hidden in a dark corner of his mind or had been devoured with his arm.
The old woman seemed displeased that her meal had stopped struggling. She shook him, but he flopped, and his head lulled from side to side. Imitari frowned, let go of Stick's arm, and pushed down on the limp man's back. Blood gushed from the ragged stump, and Imitari lowered her mouth and drank from the wound like she was sipping from a garden hose.
Stick didn't move. He just grew pail, and eventually, his panicked, shallow breaths ended, and the blood stopped flowing.
Then Imitari stood. With a quick tug, she pulled Stick's body over the counter and let it flop to the floor at her feet. Her eyes closed. A contented smile bloomed on her face as the explosive sound of crunching and cracking bones echoed through the small shop.
The deafening sound of crunching stopped, and only the buzzing of the drinks cooler reverberated through the small space. Imitari opened her eyes and watched me, a broad smile still on her lips. At that moment, I realized I could hear the drinks cooler so well because I had crawled into it, wedged between the glass door and the shelves.
Imitari held me with her gaze as cords of pink flesh lowered from the ceiling and efficiently tidied up Stick's mess, lapping up blood and hot sauce, placing cans on shelves, and scooping up cups of ramen with whip-like tendrils. Then, the cords of flesh nudged me forward, and I stood before Old Lady Imitari.
The thing that I had always thought of as a stern old woman handed me Stick's cane. With the same benign smile I remembered from buying red hots from it as a ten-year-old, it waved me away with its flyswatter, and the cords of flesh pushed me out the door onto the sidewalk.
submitted by E_Latimer to nosleep [link] [comments]
Grandma Pearl died not long after her stroke, and I've been making bad decisions ever since. Maybe my expectations are too high, or I'm just an idiot. Either way, I ran away from the group home to be with people who called themselves my "family." They were the wrong people. They used the words family, brother, sister, and love like lock picks, stealing trust, and taking self-respect.
The only person I remember using the word family correctly was Grandma Pearl. She was a small woman who toured the US as an actress before settling with Granddad above their theatrical rentals shop. I was three when the car accident took Granddad and Mom, so I don't know if they used the word "family" correctly, but I hope they did.
I was never as outgoing as Grandma, but that didn't bother her; she taught me how to watch people. How to see their signals, and how to listen. When she died. I forgot a lot of those lessons for a while.
They called it a "family". The "family" moved product. That product could be goods, drugs, or people.
The uninitiated, like me, were distracted with food and a dry place to sleep, but it didn't take long to see behind the curtain. Things got too intense with the new "family" and I ran.
I ran back to my old neighborhood. The buildings were familiar even if my home was gone. The old theatrical shop had been turned into a microbrewery.
After an appropriate amount of self-pity, thirty minutes, I wandered the alleys, picking up cans or scavenging for bits and pieces that could be recycled, used, or bartered.
I recognized old faces, but I tried to stay out of sight. It was safer that way.
The only place I allowed myself to be seen was the old Lutheran church on the park's far side. Most people who might have known me had aged out of the congregation or died. It was worth the risk because St. Lazarus had a food pantry in the basement and gave out lunches most days, so I wasn't always hungry, which was nice.
I found a dry spot near the library to sleep, which seemed like a stroke of luck until it wasn't.
I had the contentment that came with being in a familiar place. Little bits of comfort let me believe, for a moment, that I wasn't a screw-up and hadn't trusted the wrong people. That moment scurried away when Stick found me.
Stick was a scary asshole. He technically wasn't in charge of the " family," but he made it work. He got things done. I have no idea how old he was. He was all corded muscle and could clock in between twenty and fifty. He looked half-starved and moved like a stalking predator, even with his limp.
His left leg was stiff. The knee didn't bend, and anytime he sat, his left leg would be splayed to the side like a kickstand on a bike. The leg was why he walked with a cane. The cane and how he used it was why we called him Stick.
I don't know why he took the time to track me down. It's not like I was wanted. Maybe it was that I had become property. Property shouldn't just wander off.
Sometimes, you feel a person before you see them. The air is different. When Stick was around, the air felt dead and motionless. I knew I was being watched before I opened my eyes.
Stick was sitting on a milk crate, his bad leg cocked to the side and his forehead resting on his cane. I pushed myself out from beneath the ductwork of the HVAC unit I had been sleeping under and slapped the dirt off my jeans.
"I thought that was you," Stick said as his sharp grin curved up to his unblinking dark eyes.
Stick wanted my discomfort. I'd seen him play the intimidation game too many times. He'd act too friendly, and then when you were good and worried, quick movements, a hand around the back of your neck, and violence would be next. Then he'd act like the whole mind fuck was a big joke, like you were friends, and isn't it great that you can joke around with someone who "really" cared.
It worked, too. If you were the unfortunate focus of Stick's attention, you would be grateful when he smiled and said, "Just a joke, kid. Don't be so sensitive." I'd seen the pattern enough times to know Stick trained people like dogs with his hot and cold game. I didn't like the game, or the fear, so I changed the pattern.
"Hey, Stick, did you come to help pick up cans?" I asked, making sure my smile reached my eyes. I was trying to be pleasant while ignoring the burning nervousness in my gut.
It was still dark out, but I could see Stick's expressions well enough.
Stick tapped his cane on the sidewalk and squinted at me skeptically before answering. "Just checking on my little brother."
We were not related.
Stick liked to call the uninitiated his little brothers or little sisters. He forced intimacy into his language. I didn't argue the point. Interactions went best with Stick when you agreed with everything he said.
"Thanks, man," I complimented, trying to sound genuine and ignorant as I stepped forward and offered him my hand.
Stick didn't move, but I could see that this conversation wasn't going as planned for him, and I forced myself not to react to his confusion. I couldn't break character, or he would know I was playing him.
Stick tapped his cane on the ground twice, grasped my hand, and stood. He watched me. I held his stare, but in an open, naive, guileless way that I had perfected in front of the mirror as grandma gave acting advice while she put her face on.
I once asked Grandma Perl why anyone would practice acting stupid. She pointed her mascara brush at me and, in her ditsiest Minnesota Nice character, said, "It's easier to be forgiven when people think you're a little dumb, don't ya know?" Like with most things, Grandma was right.
Before I understood what had happened, Stick pulled me into his side and slung an arm around my shoulder.
"You don't have a name yet. Everyone gets a name, but they don't get to pick it." He paused and gave me a Cheshire cat grin. "I have a name for you, little brother. You are going to be called Slide." Then he held my chin and forced eye contact." Your name will be Slide because I have never seen anyone slide out of shit faster than you. I can't tell if you do it on purpose or not, and I've been watching. I watch everybody. You do, too. Hell, this might be the first time I've ever heard you talk. So let's celebrate your name, Slide." Stick's smile slipped as he pulled me out of the alley. "We'll go do something special."
I stayed silent, knowing full well what was coming. Being named meant doing something you could never take back. It was public and would put you in prison if the police ever took the time to look for you. It meant severing yourself from your life before and relying entirely on the "family." I had been absent each time naming seemed to be in the cards, but I couldn't duck out this time.
There was only one place to go at this time of night that would have an impact, the Bodega.
The Bodega was a red hole in the wall with a glass door papered over with grocery ads years outdated. Canned salmon two for one seemed to be the dominant theme. Although there were two large windows, one on either side of the door, you could barely see in. The right window was a tapestry of cigarette promotions. The left window displayed the only swath of uncovered glass with a view of the interior. From the outside, the view was of tobacco, lottery scratchers, and Old Lady Imitari.
Old Lady Imitari owned the store. She was a short, dark-haired woman who always wore a long floral tank top. Grandma Pearl loved the old woman but said Imitari looked like an old man's thumb all the years she had known her, and Grandma moved to the neighborhood with Grandad thirty years ago. Imitari was a local legend even then because the Bodega was open twenty hours a day, three hundred sixty-five days a year, and no one else worked in the store. Grandma used to make an extra strong coffee called Barako and chat with Imitari sometimes when work in the shop was slow.
I would sneak out at night and try to catch Imitari sleeping. No matter the time, I never caught her snoozing, and she always saw me peeking at her through the window. I know she saw me because she would uncross her arms and wave her flyswatter at me.
All these memories flicked through my mind as Stick smiled his too-wide smile and pushed me into the Bodega.
Imitari flicked her fly swatter at me in acknowledgment, and her attention returned to the small TV she had nestled beside the cash register, which seemed to be the old woman's only real tether to the world outside her shop.
The inside of the Bodega was just a long hallway with shelves of convenience foods, drinks, home supplies, candy, and cold meds covering every available surface from floor to ceiling. The only break in the tunnel of products was the glass counter at the back corner of the store; Imitari presided over her mini domain by casually ignoring her shoppers. I tried to make eye contact with the old woman again as Stick pushed me to the back of the shop, but after her initial acknowledgment of our entrance, Imitari's eyes stayed focused on her TV.
As casually confident as possible, I walked to the cooler and grabbed an iced tea. "Want a drink," I asked over my shoulder, my voice unusually steady, given the electric current of anxiety flowing through me.
Stick sneered and tapped his cane twice on the ground. His eyes found all the security cameras in the tiny store, a frown creasing his angular features.
I followed his line of sight and finally realized what had bothered him. The cameras were fake. They looked like security cameras, but they weren't. There were no wires or lenses, just rectangles and circles in a security camera shape.
Stick took a deep breath and tapped his cane on the ground again. " There… is … so… much… here… to… see… but… no… one… is… watching," he said with a singsong. Then his sneer turned into a cruel smile.
I knew Stick wanted an audience for what he would force me to do. The fact that the security cameras were fakes meant that whatever was going to happen would now have to be significant. An event that the neighborhood wouldn't be able to ignore. My stomach twisted with the thought.
Stick waggled his eyebrows at me. He had been watching. He had seen my thoughts, and we both knew he had something terrible in mind.
The cane twirled in Stick's hand and then tapped twice on the shop tile.
"I think I want a little bit of this," Stick said, gesturing wildly with his cane, sending a row of soup cans tumbling to the floor. "And a little bit of that," Stick added as another wild gesture sent cups of ramen spinning and knocking glass bottles of hot sauce to the floor.
I stood paralyzed, unable to run. I was trapped with nowhere to duck away to. I didn't want Stick to hurt Old Lady Imitari, and I didn't want Stick to hurt me, either. The truth was, he would hurt both of us no matter what I did. That was just the way Stick was. I'd seen him. I'd seen him show us who he was every day.
Then I realized Imitari hadn't moved. She was watching her TV and chuckling at the sitcom as if nothing had happened.
Stick glanced at me, confused. I almost felt sorry for the sociopath. His night was not going to plan.
Imitari chuckled at her TV again, and a crease formed in the middle of Stick's forehead, letting me know that he was beyond angry. He was calm, dangerous, and vicious. People had been left for dead when Stick got this way.
Stick raised his cane and flipped it so the handle jutted like a pickax. He was going to attack Imitari.
Somehow, I moved. I didn't do much, but when I slid forward and grabbed the back of Stick's shirt, the cane missed Imitari, and the sharp handle punctured the thick glass top of the counter just above a roll of Lotto scratchers.
Old lady Imitari slowly looked up into Stick's eyes and smiled. Her wide, gentle frown was replaced with a look of joy and something else, something primal, something hungry. Her pupils were blown, and I had the uneasy feeling that I was watching someone be served their absolute favorite meal.
Before Stick could pull his cane from the punctured glass, Imitari casually reached forward, grabbed the cane, and pulled the wirey man forward. Small, old, and wrinkled, Imitari stared into Stick's eyes and overpowered him.
Stick fell forward across the counter. He tried to push himself back, but Imitari's hand clamped down on his wrist like a vice.
Bones ground together as Imitari pulled Stick's hand to her mouth, and with a swift, subtle movement, she bit off the tips of Stick's pinky and ring finger like she was sampling a cookie.
I jumped back next to the cooler as a thin spray of blood arched toward me.
Stick screamed and thrashed, but Imitari's small form was static and immovable. Stick was a fly in a trap. No matter how much he struggled, punched, poked, or kicked, he could not break the old woman's hold. Then, slowly, she took another bite.
It was strangely fascinating watching the frail form of this old woman I had known for years take bite after bite out of Stick. This man, whom I thought of as a predator, a hunter, an enforcer, was crying and begging while an old woman, who looked like a wrinkled thumb in a floral top, quietly devoured him.
I was surprised by the lack of blood after the first spray. I'm sure it was Imitari's crushing grip that stanched the flow of blood. The flesh of Stick's arm looked white from the pressure.
Hand over hand, Imitari pulled Stick forward. Bones cracked as she gripped higher on Stick's arm, clamped down with her long leathery fingers, and fed the flesh and bone, one concise bite at a time, into her open smiling maw. It was rhythmical in its simplicity: chomp, crunch, chew, chew, swallow. Over and over, the pattern continued until the begging stopped.
Stick wasn't dead. He gave up. Not struggling, he laid over the glass counter like a rag doll. He watched me glassily as Imitari took bite after bite, and I knew he wasn't there anymore. Whatever made Stick Stick had either curled up and hidden in a dark corner of his mind or had been devoured with his arm.
The old woman seemed displeased that her meal had stopped struggling. She shook him, but he flopped, and his head lulled from side to side. Imitari frowned, let go of Stick's arm, and pushed down on the limp man's back. Blood gushed from the ragged stump, and Imitari lowered her mouth and drank from the wound like she was sipping from a garden hose.
Stick didn't move. He just grew pail, and eventually, his panicked, shallow breaths ended, and the blood stopped flowing.
Then Imitari stood. With a quick tug, she pulled Stick's body over the counter and let it flop to the floor at her feet. Her eyes closed. A contented smile bloomed on her face as the explosive sound of crunching and cracking bones echoed through the small shop.
The deafening sound of crunching stopped, and only the buzzing of the drinks cooler reverberated through the small space. Imitari opened her eyes and watched me, a broad smile still on her lips. At that moment, I realized I could hear the drinks cooler so well because I had crawled into it, wedged between the glass door and the shelves.
Imitari held me with her gaze as cords of pink flesh lowered from the ceiling and efficiently tidied up Stick's mess, lapping up blood and hot sauce, placing cans on shelves, and scooping up cups of ramen with whip-like tendrils. Then, the cords of flesh nudged me forward, and I stood before Old Lady Imitari.
The thing that I had always thought of as a stern old woman handed me Stick's cane. With the same benign smile I remembered from buying red hots from it as a ten-year-old, it waved me away with its flyswatter, and the cords of flesh pushed me out the door onto the sidewalk.
2024.05.19 16:43 Azee789 Found this mistake on the mario kart wii instruction booklet.
 | submitted by Azee789 to wii [link] [comments] |
2024.05.19 16:41 Raiden127456 [OC] Corruption Of Mondar - An original Warframe, Quest and Operator concept (Wall of text warning)
All credit for Mondar's 1st and 4th ability goes to my best friend, u/mmihelic87.
Kevalin - the lost Warframe's Operator - is a Quest-specific character that would be introduced in the "Corruption Of Mondar" questline. In his desperation, he reaches out to the Tenno to assist him in searching for his old companion, as his exposure to the raw Void begins to corrupt him too.
The Quest would involve following up on clues about Mondar's whereabouts, learning more about Kevalin's dedication to this specific Warframe, and trying to find a cure for the two's corruption before it spirals out of control.
Upon completion of the Corruption of Mondar quest, players would be able to select Kevalin as a playable variant of the Operator in the Transference room, as well as gain progress towards unlocking Mondar himself as a playable Warframe.
As an Operator corrupted by the Void, Kevalin's powers differ from those of the Tenno:
--- Ability 1 active = The Void Entity periodically impales nearby enemies, keeping them immobilized.
--- Ability 2 active = The Void Entity periodically releases bursts of Void contamination. Enemies affected by the AoE will have their Headshot hitbox substantially increased for a short time.
--- Ability 3 active = The Void Entity periodically restores the health of nearby allies.
--- More than one ability active = The Void Entity cycles between its active modes, though each mode's effect is weakened compared to its single-ability version.
Quick design reference for Kevalin - Transference suit overflowing with Void energy, weak and uneven stance
Close up of Kevalin's face - Uneven eyes whose color is lost to the corruption, Void contamination covering his face like veins
submitted by Raiden127456 to Warframe [link] [comments]
STORY
"A Warframe corrupted by the Void, its Operator still searches for their lost partner to this day, even if it means becoming corrupted themselves."Kevalin - the lost Warframe's Operator - is a Quest-specific character that would be introduced in the "Corruption Of Mondar" questline. In his desperation, he reaches out to the Tenno to assist him in searching for his old companion, as his exposure to the raw Void begins to corrupt him too.
The Quest would involve following up on clues about Mondar's whereabouts, learning more about Kevalin's dedication to this specific Warframe, and trying to find a cure for the two's corruption before it spirals out of control.
Upon completion of the Corruption of Mondar quest, players would be able to select Kevalin as a playable variant of the Operator in the Transference room, as well as gain progress towards unlocking Mondar himself as a playable Warframe.
GAMEPLAY - KEVALIN, "EDGE OF CORRUPTION"
As an Operator corrupted by the Void, Kevalin's powers differ from those of the Tenno:
- Rapid Combat - When using Transference, Kevalin dashes forward from the Warframe for a short distance. If he impacts with a surface during this dash, Kevalin causes an explosion of Void spikes around himself, dealing damage to nearby enemies.
- Tainted Shield - Using the Void Mode input causes Kevalin to create an impenatrable shield of Void spikes around himself. Every time the shield takes damage, it consumes a small amount of energy, and will disappear when the energy runs out.
- Tainted Step - Using the Void Sling input causes Kevalin to blink in the targeted direction. Upon exiting the blink, nearby enemies receive a small amount of Puncture damage, and are slightly slowed down for 2 seconds. Holding the input gradually increases Tainted Step's range, while also allowing better aiming for your desired location.
- Tainted Spike - Using the Void Beam input causes Kevalin to launch out a set of Void spikes towards the targeted location. Unlike the Tenno's Void Beam, Kevalin's primary attack has a slow rate of fire, but grants greatly increased damage in return. Because of his corruption, Kevalin is unable to make use of AMPs.
- Pure Release - Using the Void Blast input causes Kevalin to release a blast of pure Void energy in a small area in front of himself. Holding down the input allows for continuous damage, at the cost of rapidly draining his energy. Pure Release can still be used when energy is depleted, but will begin to cost 1 health per second to use.
GAMEPLAY - MONDAR
- Passive - Negative Status Effects affect Mondar 50% less (Reduced slow from cold, lower damage from bleed, faster recovery from knockdown, etc.).
- Ability 1 - Summon the Void Angels' claws to burst from the ground. Press the ability button again while the claws are active to cause them to rapidly close in on the center. Hold down the ability button in either state to get a better indication of the claws' damage area.
- Ability 2 - Transfigure your corrupted body, and wreak havoc with an exalted Void shotgun from Mondar's arms. Headshot kills have a chance to cause the enemy to explode, dealing Void damage in a small radius.
- Ability 3 - Sacrifice a small protion of health to cover yourself in tainted Void spikes. Upon activation, incoming damage is absorbed, and once the invulnerability phase ends, any incoming damage is reflected back at the attacker, with the previously absorbed damage being added on top of the enemy's dealt damage.
- Ability 4 - Summons an entity corrupted by the Void, which grants different effects depending on the abilities that were active when it was summoned:
--- Ability 1 active = The Void Entity periodically impales nearby enemies, keeping them immobilized.
--- Ability 2 active = The Void Entity periodically releases bursts of Void contamination. Enemies affected by the AoE will have their Headshot hitbox substantially increased for a short time.
--- Ability 3 active = The Void Entity periodically restores the health of nearby allies.
--- More than one ability active = The Void Entity cycles between its active modes, though each mode's effect is weakened compared to its single-ability version.
DETAILS AND REFERENCES
- The name Kevalin is a name of Sanskrit origin, and means "Seeker of the absolute." As his character's entire purpose is to seek out his old partner and Warframe, i felt like the name was appropriate.
- The name Mondar is an altered version of Moander, the god of rot, corruption and decay from Forgotten Realms. I was hoping to use a real god or deity for his namesake, but ended up going with this after i couldn't find anything.
Quick design reference for Kevalin - Transference suit overflowing with Void energy, weak and uneven stance
Close up of Kevalin's face - Uneven eyes whose color is lost to the corruption, Void contamination covering his face like veins
2024.05.19 16:39 obkook Easiest way to get SOOC video from X100VI
I took my X100VI to my son's basketball tournament just to play around and familiarize myself with it. I often shoot stills of his team with an XT-5 paired with 50-140MM 2.8 Fuji lens. Another parent usually takes video of the entire game and posts it for the team to watch later. That parent wasn't available and they asked me to do the video.
I quickly set up to take in FHD 23.98P instead of 4K (to prevent overheating), 60SS, auto ISO, and f2.8. I did a quick white balance calibration for the awful lighting in the gym.
I set up mid-court, and although the lens is just a tad narrow to capture the scene near the perimeter, gentle panning was all I needed to do, and the built-in IBIS helped (I hoped, since I had neither a gimbal nor a tripod).
I took short clips with the intention of just putting them on a Premiere Pro timeline and rendering out the 30 min+ video to post on YouTube for the parents. A couple of peeks showed that the colors and lighting were all looking great.
But when I got home and pulled the clips off the camera to view them on my mac, the colors and dynamics were super washed out and looked nothing like what was playing back in camera. I finally figured out how to import the Fujifilm LUT into PR and got OK results, but there must be an easier way since I ended up having to color-grade each of those clips individually.
How do you grab casual video off this camera? What am I missing here?
submitted by obkook to fujifilm [link] [comments]
I quickly set up to take in FHD 23.98P instead of 4K (to prevent overheating), 60SS, auto ISO, and f2.8. I did a quick white balance calibration for the awful lighting in the gym.
I set up mid-court, and although the lens is just a tad narrow to capture the scene near the perimeter, gentle panning was all I needed to do, and the built-in IBIS helped (I hoped, since I had neither a gimbal nor a tripod).
I took short clips with the intention of just putting them on a Premiere Pro timeline and rendering out the 30 min+ video to post on YouTube for the parents. A couple of peeks showed that the colors and lighting were all looking great.
But when I got home and pulled the clips off the camera to view them on my mac, the colors and dynamics were super washed out and looked nothing like what was playing back in camera. I finally figured out how to import the Fujifilm LUT into PR and got OK results, but there must be an easier way since I ended up having to color-grade each of those clips individually.
How do you grab casual video off this camera? What am I missing here?
2024.05.19 16:33 cash Apartment will not enforce smoking rules [Virginia]
My partner lives in a senior community (55+) for low income people. Over the past 6 months or so, a few residents of the apartments have started smoking in their units, on their balconies, etc. As a result, cigarette smoke is drifting up into other units, including my partner's, whenever windows are left open. His patio is also unusable when the smokers are out there. There's frequently smoke drifting out into the hallways from people smoking in their units. It's very noticeable and disgusting.
My partner has numerous health issues, and both his parents died from lung cancer (smoking related), so it's become a distressing thing for him.
The front of the building, right outside the leasing office, has a large sign advertising the community as being "SMOKE FREE." The lease itself has a clause prohibiting smokers in and around the buildings (20 ft+). It's also advertised online as being smoke free.
We confronted management about it. The manager responded denying any rules against smoking existed. This has led to a heated exchange back and forth between us where we've provided documentation showing that smoking is prohibited including a picture of the front door and a copy excerpts from the lease itself. In response, rather than enforcing the rules (which are pretty clear), the manager has arbitrarily decided to inform all residents that smoking is allowed now, despite what's in the lease and despite advertising the community as being smoke free.
My partner has a bird feeder hanging on his patio and is one of maybe four people that have them in the entire community. Shortly after this exchange began about the smoking, management informed all residents that they are no longer allowed to have bird feeders on their balconies. There's no rule against them in the lease, it's been hanging there for years without any issues, and frankly given the context of what's happening, seems targeted at my partner.
Do we have any options? Don't even know if he can leave because the same lease agreement that management is ignoring prohibits him from leaving for ~9-10 more months.
submitted by cash to legaladvice [link] [comments]
My partner has numerous health issues, and both his parents died from lung cancer (smoking related), so it's become a distressing thing for him.
The front of the building, right outside the leasing office, has a large sign advertising the community as being "SMOKE FREE." The lease itself has a clause prohibiting smokers in and around the buildings (20 ft+). It's also advertised online as being smoke free.
We confronted management about it. The manager responded denying any rules against smoking existed. This has led to a heated exchange back and forth between us where we've provided documentation showing that smoking is prohibited including a picture of the front door and a copy excerpts from the lease itself. In response, rather than enforcing the rules (which are pretty clear), the manager has arbitrarily decided to inform all residents that smoking is allowed now, despite what's in the lease and despite advertising the community as being smoke free.
My partner has a bird feeder hanging on his patio and is one of maybe four people that have them in the entire community. Shortly after this exchange began about the smoking, management informed all residents that they are no longer allowed to have bird feeders on their balconies. There's no rule against them in the lease, it's been hanging there for years without any issues, and frankly given the context of what's happening, seems targeted at my partner.
Do we have any options? Don't even know if he can leave because the same lease agreement that management is ignoring prohibits him from leaving for ~9-10 more months.
2024.05.19 16:30 aeranogana My friend just cut ties with me.
Back in my college day, I have a friend who I will called “Peter” from now on. Peter has always been a guy who is my close friend and we basically a part of the same group when we hangout or go to any classes. One day, he seems to have a problem or an argument with his family and now he lay it out on me, wanting me to console him, or maybe to do something that would help with the situation, but that problem is internal within his family, so I can only give advice and one of them was for him to think about the good life that he has in the past, to look at the friendship scrap books and old messages that he got from his friends back in the day so that he could take his mind off the problem. After we talked about the situation and I helped him set his mind off the thing, he says thanks to me and we say goodbye to each other, but a short time after that, he DM a Sticker to me, and that Sticker look sinister, like he held a grudge on me or about to do something sinister. I didn’t respond anything to that.
Some time after that, I started to have my own problem, too, can’t remember the exact detail, but I choose to call Peter and confide in him. I talked about my struggle and problem that is going on, and what he chose to say to me is unbelievable. Instead of helping with my problem, he started to talk about a random game which I have no interest in at that moment, going into detail about its lore and world building, about how interesting this game is, completely ignore my problem, then he ended the talk by saying that “I just did what you’ve done to me in the past”. At the moment I don’t know what to said and I can only think about the day I consoled him in the past. Maybe I did something wrong back then? I only told him that I will improve whatever he wanted me to do better. The thing is, what he did to me has hurt me so much and I won’t be able to forget it anytime soon.
Fast forward to two-ish years later, I decided to settle this problem once and for all. I always knew that whatever problem I have, I could just talk directly to him, so I decided to call him and explain how he did the “I did what you did” thing to me and how angry I become due to that behavior. He said that he can’t remember that thing, and then started suggesting that we should cut ties from each other, but that’s not what I want. I just want everything to be the same, and also to lay this problem out on him, to show him how uncomfortable that behavior is to me. He just seems to respond with normal stuff like “yeah”, “okay”, “alright”, so I didn’t really know whether he actually understands what I said. So I called him again a few days later, to asked him to explain the problem, and then apologize to that. He did that, but then he also state that he don’t want to be my friend anymore, like we should just end things here. It broke my heart how we have come to this point. I still want him to be his old self, cause before I call out this whole thing, he is actually improve a lot and there are no more things that I really have problem with, except that one “I did what you did to me” thing. After that, we go to eat dinner together cause we are in the same group, but the whole time that we are there, he didn’t say hello to me, or talk to me at all. It is just me trying to initiate conversation with him, and he only nod or say “yes”, something like that. He really not wanted to talk to me. After the dinner is finished, everyone go home and we have an argument again, and he still stand by his choice to cut all contact with me, but then he told me that he will reconsidered his choice. A few days later, he reached out to me, and long story shot, he still think the same as before. He will cut contact with me, and I convinced him to continue staying in the group. I still don’t know whether we will get to meet up next time my group gets together, but it sounds like a point of no return for our relationship.
I never thought that calling him out like that would lead to that kind of damage, both to our friendship and our emotion. I thought we can always talk things out and everything will return to normal. But I think it doesn’t matter anymore, what matters is that my feeling is going through a rollercoaster right now. Sometimes, I still got angry about the argument and how I could told him “this” or “that” to change his view, or to have a come back to the argument. Sometimes, I think about the good old day and how we used to talk to each other, confide in each other, and how we laugh to silly things together. Other times, I got scary about what he is about to do when we meet again next time, how he potentially could hurt my feeling. And there are also times that I thought about how things could go differently. What if I just stayed silent and buried my grudge forever. I really missed the good version of him, and wished that we could be the same like before (minus that “I did what you did to me” thing). Can someone tell me how to get through this? How to process all of this thing? I don’t have that many close friend and losing him really have an impact on my life. Help.
submitted by aeranogana to mentalhealth [link] [comments]
Some time after that, I started to have my own problem, too, can’t remember the exact detail, but I choose to call Peter and confide in him. I talked about my struggle and problem that is going on, and what he chose to say to me is unbelievable. Instead of helping with my problem, he started to talk about a random game which I have no interest in at that moment, going into detail about its lore and world building, about how interesting this game is, completely ignore my problem, then he ended the talk by saying that “I just did what you’ve done to me in the past”. At the moment I don’t know what to said and I can only think about the day I consoled him in the past. Maybe I did something wrong back then? I only told him that I will improve whatever he wanted me to do better. The thing is, what he did to me has hurt me so much and I won’t be able to forget it anytime soon.
Fast forward to two-ish years later, I decided to settle this problem once and for all. I always knew that whatever problem I have, I could just talk directly to him, so I decided to call him and explain how he did the “I did what you did” thing to me and how angry I become due to that behavior. He said that he can’t remember that thing, and then started suggesting that we should cut ties from each other, but that’s not what I want. I just want everything to be the same, and also to lay this problem out on him, to show him how uncomfortable that behavior is to me. He just seems to respond with normal stuff like “yeah”, “okay”, “alright”, so I didn’t really know whether he actually understands what I said. So I called him again a few days later, to asked him to explain the problem, and then apologize to that. He did that, but then he also state that he don’t want to be my friend anymore, like we should just end things here. It broke my heart how we have come to this point. I still want him to be his old self, cause before I call out this whole thing, he is actually improve a lot and there are no more things that I really have problem with, except that one “I did what you did to me” thing. After that, we go to eat dinner together cause we are in the same group, but the whole time that we are there, he didn’t say hello to me, or talk to me at all. It is just me trying to initiate conversation with him, and he only nod or say “yes”, something like that. He really not wanted to talk to me. After the dinner is finished, everyone go home and we have an argument again, and he still stand by his choice to cut all contact with me, but then he told me that he will reconsidered his choice. A few days later, he reached out to me, and long story shot, he still think the same as before. He will cut contact with me, and I convinced him to continue staying in the group. I still don’t know whether we will get to meet up next time my group gets together, but it sounds like a point of no return for our relationship.
I never thought that calling him out like that would lead to that kind of damage, both to our friendship and our emotion. I thought we can always talk things out and everything will return to normal. But I think it doesn’t matter anymore, what matters is that my feeling is going through a rollercoaster right now. Sometimes, I still got angry about the argument and how I could told him “this” or “that” to change his view, or to have a come back to the argument. Sometimes, I think about the good old day and how we used to talk to each other, confide in each other, and how we laugh to silly things together. Other times, I got scary about what he is about to do when we meet again next time, how he potentially could hurt my feeling. And there are also times that I thought about how things could go differently. What if I just stayed silent and buried my grudge forever. I really missed the good version of him, and wished that we could be the same like before (minus that “I did what you did to me” thing). Can someone tell me how to get through this? How to process all of this thing? I don’t have that many close friend and losing him really have an impact on my life. Help.
2024.05.19 16:30 TheForce122 The Jewish Holocaust of 6M Jews was bad, by Satanist Adolf Hitler. However, the Christian Holocaust of 20-66 million mostly Christian Russians, by the Satanic Bolsheviks who called themselves Jews, was the worst Holocaust of all time. Rothschild NWO did Bolshevik Revolution to install central bank
 | Ynet article (https://archive.is/F1sJW): submitted by TheForce122 to conspiracy_commons [link] [comments] "Stalin's Jews: We mustn't forget that some of greatest murderers of modern times were Jewish" Here's a particularly forlorn historical date: Almost 90 years ago, between the 19th and 20th of December 1917, in the midst of the Bolshevik revolution and civil war, Lenin signed a decree calling for the establishment of The All-Russian Extraordinary Commission for Combating Counter-Revolution and Sabotage, also known as Cheka. Within a short period of time, Cheka became the largest and cruelest state security organization. Its organizational structure was changed every few years, as were its names: From Cheka to GPU, later to NKVD, and later to KGB. We cannot know with certainty the number of deaths Cheka was responsible for in its various manifestations, but the number is surely at least 20 million, including victims of the forced collectivization, the hunger, large purges, expulsions, banishments, executions, and mass death at Gulags. Whole population strata were eliminated: Independent farmers, ethnic minorities, members of the bourgeoisie, senior officers, intellectuals, artists, labor movement activists, "opposition members" who were defined completely randomly, and countless members of the Communist party itself. In his new, highly praised book "The War of the World, "Historian Niall Ferguson writes that no revolution in the history of mankind devoured its children with the same unrestrained appetite as did the Soviet revolution. In his book on the Stalinist purges, Tel Aviv University's Dr. Igal Halfin writes that Stalinist violence was unique in that it was directed internally. Lenin, Stalin, and their successors could not have carried out their deeds without wide-scale cooperation of disciplined "terror officials," cruel interrogators, snitches, executioners, guards, judges, perverts, and many bleeding hearts who were members of the progressive Western Left and were deceived by the Soviet regime of horror and even provided it with a kosher certificate. All these things are well-known to some extent or another, even though the former Soviet Union's archives have not yet been fully opened to the public. But who knows about this? Within Russia itself, very few people have been brought to justice for their crimes in the NKVD's and KGB's service. The Russian public discourse today completely ignores the question of "How could it have happened to us?" As opposed to Eastern European nations, the Russians did not settle the score with their Stalinist past. And us, the Jews? An Israeli student finishes high school without ever hearing the name "Genrikh Yagoda," the greatest Jewish murderer of the 20th Century, the GPU's deputy commander and the founder and commander of the NKVD. Yagoda diligently implemented Stalin's collectivization orders and is responsible for the deaths of at least 10 million people. His Jewish deputies established and managed the Gulag system. After Stalin no longer viewed him favorably, Yagoda was demoted and executed, and was replaced as chief hangman in 1936 by Yezhov, the "bloodthirsty dwarf." Yezhov was not Jewish but was blessed with an active Jewish wife. In his Book "Stalin: Court of the Red Star", Jewish historian Sebag Montefiore writes that during the darkest period of terror, when the Communist killing machine worked in full force, Stalin was surrounded by beautiful, young Jewish women. Stalin's close associates and loyalists included member of the Central Committee and Politburo Lazar Kaganovich. Montefiore characterizes him as the "first Stalinist" and adds that those starving to death in Ukraine, an unparalleled tragedy in the history of human kind aside from the Nazi horrors and Mao's terror in China, did not move Kaganovich. Many Jews sold their soul to the devil of the Communist revolution and have blood on their hands for eternity. We'll mention just one more: Leonid Reichman, head of the NKVD's special department and the organization's chief interrogator, who was a particularly cruel sadist. In 1934, according to published statistics, 38.5 percent of those holding the most senior posts in the Soviet security apparatuses were of Jewish origin. They too, of course, were gradually eliminated in the next purges. In a fascinating lecture at a Tel Aviv University convention this week, Dr. Halfin described the waves of soviet terror as a "carnival of mass murder," "fantasy of purges", and "essianism of evil." Turns out that Jews too, when they become captivated by messianic ideology, can become great murderers, among the greatest known by modern history. The Jews active in official communist terror apparatuses (In the Soviet Union and abroad) and who at times led them, did not do this, obviously, as Jews, but rather, as Stalinists, communists, and "Soviet people." Therefore, we find it easy to ignore their origin and "play dumb": What do we have to do with them? But let's not forget them. My own view is different. I find it unacceptable that a person will be considered a member of the Jewish people when he does great things, but not considered part of our people when he does amazingly despicable things. Even if we deny it, we cannot escape the Jewishness of "our hangmen," who served the Red Terror with loyalty and dedication from its establishment. After all, others will always remind us of their origin. "The Bolshevik Revolution: An Iluminati takeover of Russia?" The murderous Bolshevik Revolution made communism a political reality by mostly Jewish activists. Alarming similarities to today’s political climate invite comparison. Czar Nicholas II abdicated in March 1917. Since Bolshevik leaders Vladimir Lenin and Leon Trotsky weren’t even in Russia then, how did they gain control of it by November 1917? Western analysts uncovered parts of this mystery, but much remained unknown due to the Soviet government’s stranglehold on its history – as Orwell said, “Who controls the present controls the past.” With glasnost, archives creaked open. Perhaps no one has collated the information better than Juri Lina in his book Under the Sign of the Scorpion. The Rothschild-Illuminati axis, through their network of banksters and Freemasons, controlled the Bolshevik operation. In February 1917, an artificially induced bread shortage accompanied orchestrated rioting in Petrograd (then Russia’s capital). In a “false flag,” the mobs were machine-gunned from hidden positions; the casualties were blamed on the Czar. British agents bribed Russian soldiers to mutiny and join the rioting. White Russian General Arsene de Goulevitch wrote: “I have been told that over 21 million rubles were spent by Lord Milner in financing the Russian Revolution.” 33rd degree Freemason Alfred Milner was a Rothschild front man. Several Russian generals were Freemasons who betrayed the Czar under Masonic instructions. Russians thought the provisional government, established under Alexander Kerensky after the Czar’s fall, meant future democracy. But Kerensky, Grand Secretary of Russia’s Grand Orient, was “phase one” of communist takeover. His government pardoned all political exiles – green light for return to Russia of fellow Freemasons Lenin and Trotsky. Jacob Schiff and Federal Reserve founder Paul Warburg ran Kuhn, Loeb & Co. – the Rothschilds’ New York banking satellite. Schiff supplied $20 million in gold to Trotsky, who sailed from New York with 275 other terrorists on a passport obtained through pressure the bankers put on the Wilson administration. In Germany, Warburg’s brother Max helped persuade the government to provide millions to Lenin and allow him to cross Germany with other revolutionaries in a special train. The Germans agreed because the Bolsheviks promised to remove Russia from the raging First World War after taking power. The Bolsheviks succeeded because they had what other revolutionaries (e.g., Mensheviks) lacked – limitless cash. By May 1917, Pravda already had a circulation of 300,000. It is a myth that Kerensky and the Bolsheviks were adversaries. Kerensky received $1 million from Jacob Schiff. During summer 1917, when it was revealed the Bolsheviks were on Germany’s payroll – treason during wartime – Kerensky protected them. When the Bolsheviks moved to seize power that autumn, he declined the option of requesting troops to preserve the government. Lenin and Trotsky gave Kerensky money and safe passage out. He died wealthy in 1970 in New York, where the Russian Orthodox Church refused him burial services. Postwar Britain sent the Bolsheviks rifles and ammunition for 250,000 men. With this and other Western assistance, the Reds crushed the White opposition. Loans and technology from Western capitalists poured in for decades, as documented in such books as Antony Sutton’s Wall Street and the Bolshevik Revolution and Joseph Finder’s Red Carpet. In 1992, the newspaper Literaturnaya Rossiya estimated that, including starvation and civil war, Soviet communism left 147 million dead. Even accepting the more moderate claim of Harvard University Press’s Black Book of Communism – that communism murdered “only” 100 million worldwide – what these numbers represent is beyond comprehension. Stalin reportedly said: “One death is a tragedy; a million is a statistic.” Leon Trotsky (Jewish born “Lev Bronstein”) and his 300 well-trained Jewish communists from Manhattan’s Lower East Side, boarded the Norwegian steamer “Kristianiafjord” for a journey that brought them to St. Petersburg in Russia. Their purpose was to establish a Marxist government under the leadership of Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin. Before departing, Jacob Schiff gave this group $20 million in gold to accomplish the task, but the plan was already under way before they even boarded the ship thanks to the Rothschilds. By December 1917, the Bolsheviks established their instrument of terror, the Cheka (the KGB’s precursor). Lina writes: “Lists of those shot and otherwise executed were published in the Cheka’s weekly newspaper. In this way it can be proved that 1.7 million people were executed during the period 1918-19. A river of blood flowed through Russia. The Cheka had to employ body counters.” By contrast, under the czars, 467 people were executed between 1826 and 1904 (78 years). Trotsky declared: “We will reduce the Russian intelligentsia to a complete idiocy.” Lina writes: “1,695,604 people were executed from January 1921 to April 1922. Among these victims were bishops, professors, doctors, officers, policemen, gendarmes, lawyers, civil servants, journalists, writers, artists…” The Bolsheviks considered the intelligentsia the greatest threat to their dictatorship. This sheds light on the Marxist buzzword “proletariat.” The Illuminati knew nations are easier to enslave if only peasants and laborers remain. But even the proletariat wasn’t spared. The Cheka brutally suppressed hundreds of peasant uprisings and labor strikes, executing victims as “counter-revolutionaries.” Satanic torture often accompanied killings. Many priests were crucified. Some victims had eyes put out, or limbs chopped off, or were otherwise mutilated, while the next victims were forced to watch. Although Russia had been “the world’s granary,” over five million died of starvation during the famine of 1921-22. This wasn’t “socialist inefficiency,” but genocide from grain confiscation. In the Holodomor, Stalin murdered 7 million Ukrainians, including 3 million children, by ordering all foodstuffs confiscated as punishment for resisting farm collectivization. Communist brigades went house to house, ripping down walls with axes searching for “hoarded” food. In Soviet gulags (concentration camps) millions perished. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn estimated that, just during Stalin’s “great purge” of 1937-38, two million died in gulags. The Bolsheviks meanwhile lived royally. Lenin, who occupied Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrov’s estate, placed 75 million francs in a Swiss bank account in 1920. Trotsky, who lived in a castle seized from Prince Felix Yusupov, had over $80 million in U.S. bank accounts. Top Cheka officials ate off gold plates. Communism was plunder masked by ideological slogans. Money and jewelry were stripped from homes at gunpoint. Lenin and Trotsky repaid their masters. Lina writes: “In October 1918, Jewish bankers in Berlin received 47 cases of gold from Russia, containing 3125 kilos of gold.” The Grand Orient de France refurbished its Paris Lodge with money Lenin sent in 1919. In New York, Kuhn, Loeb received, in the first half of 1921 alone, $102 million in Russian wealth. Bolsheviks were predominantly Jewish – unsurprising given the long linkage of cabalistic Jews to Freemasonry and revolution. I state this objectively, without anti-Semitism. I am half-Jewish; my paternal grandparents emigrated from Russia in 1904. In Les Derniers Jours des Romanofs (1920), Robert Wilton, The Times’s Russian correspondent, named each person in the Bolshevik government. The tally: Bolshevik Party Central Committee: of 12 members, 9 were Jews. (NOTE: Actually 10 now that we know Lenin has been declassified to be part-Jewish) Council of People’s Commissars: 22 members, 17 Jews. Central Executive Committee: 61 members, 41 Jews. Extraordinary Commission of Moscow: 36 members, 23 Jews. In 1922, the Morning Post listed all 545 civil servants in the Soviet administration; 477 were Jews, 30 were ethnic Russians. “Russian” Revolution was a misnomer. Leon Trotsky (real name Lev Bronstein) was a Ukrainian Jew. He introduced the cabalistic five-pointed star as the Red Army’s symbol. In New York, Trotsky belonged to B’nai B’raith – the Jewish Masonic order – as did his financial angel, Jacob Schiff. Juri Lina has unearthed evidence that Schiff ordered the murder of the Czar and royal family. Under Lenin, anti-Semitism became a capital offense. [lightbox full=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoAEKHBtNIA”]The Bolsheviks destroyed 60,000 churches[/lightbox]; many became latrines or museums of atheism. Yet Russia’s synagogues went untouched. Jews dominated the Cheka (formed of 23 Jews and 13 others). Lina lists 15 Jewish gulag commandants (Under the Sign of the Scorpion, p. 310). The Cheka targeted classes and ethnicities: the “bourgeoisie”; “kulaks” (landowning farmers); and Cossacks, whom the Central Committee declared “must be exterminated and physically disposed of, down to the last man.” They tried to eradicate [lightbox full=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kW4T8m2wWc”]Russian culture[/lightbox], renaming Petrograd and Tsaritsyn after the revolution’s psychopaths. In Ukraine, the Bolsheviks seized traditional national costumes. Obliterating nationalism is a precursor to the Illuminati world order. Though it is sometimes claimed Jewish dominance ended under Stalin, in 1937 17 of 27 Presidium members were still Jewish, and 115 of 133 Council of People’s Commissars. Stalin did turn against the Zionists in 1949, heavily persecuting Jews during 1952, after which he was poisoned. "THE FINANCING OF THE OCTOBER REVOLUTION OF 1917 BY WARBURG AND THE CONTROL OF THE RUSSIAN CENTRAL BANK BY ROTHSCHILD" Tsarist Russia was a thorn in the side of western high finance because at the end of the 19th century the Russian empire was the only European power not to have a central bank. “It was still the tsar who decided on coinage in his country”. "It was very simple: the money was his and he controlled the amount." That was to change quickly when the communists came to power: one of Lenin's first measures was the establishment of a Russian central bank after the fall of the tsar. After the Bolshevik Revolution, “unimaginably large sums of money from the private assets of the Russian tsarist family flowed into the hands of international bankers”. It is easy to guess why that happened. The October 1917 Revolution under Lenin, or the violent seizure of power by the Russian Communist Bolsheviks, was co-financed by German bankers. There are estimates that 50 million marks flowed back then, which today corresponds to at least half a billion euros. The saying of the mother of the 5 Rothschild sons is well known: "If my sons don't want it, there is no war." Anyone who wanted to wage war needed money; but money was only available from the Rothschilds at the time. So the success of the Russian Revolution of 1917 was dependent on money. The money came from Trotsky, who was hooked up with the Wall Street banks. Trotsky married Sedova, the daughter of Jivotovsky, who was closely associated with the Warburg banking house and the cousins of Jacob Schiff, the financial group that financed Japan in the war against Russia. Here an ominous as well as powerful connection opens up, the alliance between capitalism and communism. Thus there is the apparently paradoxical connection that private capitalism, as the arch enemy of communism, financed its revolution in powerful Russia (thesis and antithesis). “We cannot state that all Jews are Bolsheviks. But – Without Jews there would never have been Bolshevism. For a Jew nothing is more insulting than the Truth. The Blood Maddened Jewish terrorists had murdered 66,000,000 in Russia from 1918 – 1957. Between the years 1917 and 1991 preceding the collapse of the Soviet Union, it is estimated that Communist Jews murdered somewhere between 60 and 135 million innocent people." Source for quote: https://archive.is/xRVOA |
2024.05.19 16:19 large_red_apple From bad to good to bad again
Long story short: Made the decision to get Invisalign, wanted to fix gap between front teeth, wore them correctly, got the retainers, gap came back, installed "rails" to keep teeth in place but the gap never fully closed". So although they look better than before, I still regret getting Invisalign. No refund.
Don't be like me, get "rails" instead, it will turn out better probably.
And before I get comments about not wearing them enough, I did. But the retainers didn't retain the teeth as they should.
submitted by large_red_apple to Invisalign [link] [comments]
Don't be like me, get "rails" instead, it will turn out better probably.
And before I get comments about not wearing them enough, I did. But the retainers didn't retain the teeth as they should.
2024.05.19 16:17 Rusted-1 ARK 8 Chapter 20-Old gods, new hope
 | \"What's a cult? It just means not enough people to make a minority.\"- Robert Altman submitted by Rusted-1 to NatureofPredators [link] [comments] HELLO EVERYONE! I'M BAAAACCKKKKK! Sorry, it's been a while, college and all. Now that I'm Back from college, I should post more regularly. The story shall continue! I might be a bit rusty, but I'm definitely getting back into the swing of things. Hope you all enjoy it. This fanfic is based on the fanfic The Isolationists, by Seeyouon_otherside, and a continuation of the stronger_together series. Constructive criticism is appreciated. Time Since First Contact: Y:0 M:1 W:0 D:0 Memory transcript: Commander Fango Feral, Tiwond of the Enforcers. “Again,” I told Sunclick. He nodded as the security feed from the incident at the mall played once more in front of us. My niece Canilia Lieutenant Feral, Sunclick, along with the commander lieutenants of each district, all observed what was happening on the screen in front of us, from the human known as Sixer interacting peacefully with a couple, then that brat, who came out of nowhere, who was chasing some poor Zeyzell, then Ashina, who came out of the bathroom and slammed the brat on the ground. Then he and his friends left only for the brat, who disappeared before he left the door. “And his friends have no idea where he went?” I asked one of the commander lieutenants. “No, sir. My husband was one of the people on that recovery team, and after heavy interrogation of the kids' friends, he simply disappeared. He left his friends completely abandoned and confused. They don’t know where he went. It was like he just vanished.” One of the commander lieutenants spoke up. “Thank you for the confirmation,” I told him. He swished his tail in acknowledgment and then started talking to the others as they bounced theories and questions off one another. Leaving me and my niece to ourselves, my niece stepped forward. “Sir, I understand this is personal for you, especially since it involved Ashina.” my niece told me. “Thank you for understanding that. You don’t have to call me sir. You are my niece.” “I know, it's just a professional courtesy.” She responded flatly. I nodded. “Thank you. I know you and her didn’t always get along, especially after her parents died, but I’m glad you, too, have become such close friends after we let her in under our roof,” I whispered to my niece. Looking at my niece's face, I wished I could take off that gas mask to see her smile. However, I knew what was under it, and any real chance of her being truly happy was most likely long, long gone. Ever since she lost her gift, she has been bitter and angry, focusing solely on protecting others from the same fate that befell her. Wait a minute, isn’t the staying human Dominic staying with her? “Canilia, how are things with that human? You don’t talk about him much.” She was silent. Then I heard a weird, cracking sound. It was very faint, but I could hear it as she was right next to me. It was coming from her mouth. I know that cracking sound. It’s what’s left of her cheek, curling into a smile. A Small one, but a smile nonetheless. “He is very kind to me. He likes hugs, he likes to talk, and he likes to listen. I like that he likes to help me, although I have yet to show him this.” She gestured to her stomach, where her gift once was. I nodded. She was...happy... I nodded to Sunclick, who then took over the conversation so I could talk to my niece. He drew the attention away from us, allowing us to speak. “Do you think the aliens will be able to help you reclaim your gift?” I asked. She shrugged. “I sure hope so, another thing, however.” She spoke much more quietly. “ I’ve been staring at the neighbors' kids again. I don’t know how long I’ve been doing it, but Dominic’s caught me doing it twice. He knows something, and he will think less of me when he finds out.” She hung her head with despair. With all my heart, I wish I could reach out, grab her by the head, and yell at her that losing your gift isn’t a sign of dishonor. She was wounded in combat. None of it was her fault, and that she should forgive herself. But I know that wouldn’t work, she’s too stubborn like me, one of the few traits. I wish she had never gotten it from me. If my sister was here now, she would kill me. “What has he done about it?” I asked. “When he saw you looking at the little ones.” She moved a little bit, causing her power armor to creek, then looked back up at me with the sort of, well, I don’t know, I've never seen that look in her eyes. It was like Hope and joy, but more. “He knows something is wrong. It’s his medical training that tells him it and his instincts, he’s actually baked a few meats for me, and sometimes when I snap out of it, there’s a blanket over me and a hot cup of…coco, I believe he calls it next to me. He is an excellent caretaker.” I couldn’t help but smile. She finally found someone who isn’t intimidated by her, who is willing to care for her that isn’t me. I felt an odd pride at that, but I’ll take that pride. “Is the great Canilia Feral Smiling? Oh, I never thought I would see the da-.” My niece and I turned at the same exact time. Our combined staring rivals that of any sun's power, with how intense our staring was at the damned soul who dared make a comment like that at her. The moment our eyes landed on the poor soul, he shriveled faster than a drumling that was absorbed into a flesh pit. He quickly hung his head and scurried out of the room to the laughter of the other lieutenant commanders. I turned back to Sunclick, who was having a bit of a chuckle of his own, he looked up at me and gave him the thumbs up, and I returned the gesture. “Have the scanners picked anything up? The cameras, have they picked anything up about this person?” I asked him, the laughter quickly leaving the room as we returned to full seriousness mode. “Sorry, commander, nothing, we’ve picked up absolutely nothing about this guy. We’ve run background checks, and we believe a few leads and we have some units out there checking out all the leads, however, will take some time as there are quite a few, and we don’t really know much about this kid. There are almost no files on him. The only thing we have turned up is a birth certificate and seventeen residences, which cannot be right. However, we did find something rather interesting. After talking to some of the people on the scene, we were able to discern a possible motive, which gave us a very good lead. Then, looking into that motive, we found a few of these.” Sunclick pointed to a stack of extremely old newspapers, the ones the type that came right after the third unification war, when hyperpaper was very rare, and the plants that needed to be used in hyperpaper production were almost all wiped out during the war, and these are made on type of cloth to save hyper paper. I walked over and picked one up, looking at the article that was circled. It read, “Boy's mother, abducted by aliens? Fact? Or postwar terrorist?” I looked at Sunclick. “I remember the post-war terrorist, and I put a few down myself.” My niece spoke out loud as she looked over my shoulder. One of the lieutenant commanders came up, picked up the newspaper stacks, and started handing them out to the others. “Sunclick, I trust your judgment, but can you explain…this?” I asked him. His eyes lit up like a Titan bug after it had ingested a bunch of parasites that were making their way out of its body. “I would love to! You see, this kid, for whatever reason, believes that aliens abducted his mother. Now, post-war terrorists were common, and they are running around, and it might even be true that a post-war terrorist kidnapper killed his mother. However, the body was never actually found like most terrorist killings. After the war, there was so much confusion because people didn’t know what to do, and many were still bitter that we had won. For whatever reason, this kid got this idea into his head that aliens had kidnapped his mother, which everyone was kind of obsessed about, even more so that there are some literally living among us. Much to everyone’s delight, I must say. However, with that single statement, that single line, and what witnesses told us at the scene. We have a much more narrow view of who this kid is, the only problem is, that the kid was never properly documented. He’s a ghost in the system. The good news is his friends have been more than helpful, as they didn’t realize he would go that far. They've been telling us everything about him, but after some digging, it turns out they know just as much as we do, next to nothing. Either this kid is extremely paranoid or…” Sunclick went silent. “Please, Sunclick, tell us.” my niece asked. He took a deep breath. He shifted nervously in his seat. “He’s a part of the cult of the old God.” The emotion and general vibe of the room immediately shifted when the cult of the old god was mentioned: those rat bastards. “Do you think they moved up this far north?” I asked him. “Honestly, I think so, I’ve been working with some of the lesser district managers since all of you guys have been busy with the aliens, which I don’t blame you for. They’re pretty freaking awesome. However, since their arrival, the cult of the old God activity has practically tripled twenty-fold. It’s insane what they’ve been pulling off, from stealing military equipment to assassinating low-level political members-" "WHY IN THE OLD VOID WAS I NOT MADE AWARE OF THIS!?!" I screamed. Everyone in the room winced except my neice. Sunclick, who had received the full force of my explosive outbursts, had his ears pinned on his head and looked somewhat afraid of me now. I sighed and motioned him to continue. "Please continue." "....uh sorry...I was going to tell you eventually, as things are out of hand, which is probably about right now. However, you were busy with the aliens and...never mind, it's not important now. If this kid is a part of the cult of the old God, they’ve gotten extremely bold, and they will become a major problem for the aliens. Their whole goal is to purify the planet and kill the great protector so that their own God, the old God, the one who came before the great protector, can reign again, and we can expand past the red lightning veil and enter the greater galaxy. These aliens represent a massive threat to that ideology. Now they know there’s another life out there, other empires, they will see the aliens as a huge threat. This means they’ll be number one on their bucket list to take out, and if they do that, the aliens could turn against us, seeing us as all hostile, which is not happening at all, considering just how nice they’ve been, they’re also extremely cuddly, I mean, have you seen the way they-.” “Sunclick, I understand you enjoy discussing advanced science with humans, but we need you to focus.” One of the commander lieutenants said. Sunclick stopped and nodded. “Right, right, sorry. As I was saying, the aliens represent a massive threat to their organization. However, this attack could’ve been a totally one-off situation where some random member decided to prove themselves. However, it also could have been something to test the alien's reaction to one of their own getting attacked. The aliens were mad, sure, but they trusted us to keep them safe. The aliens themselves didn’t do much other than send down more equipment for us and some of their own people to monitor the situation.” Sunclick finished. I nodded my head. “Thank you, good work as always.” he smiled and nodded as his ears returned to normal, then returned to his computer. I looked back at the lieutenant command, who had the Zeyzell and citizen who were assaulted under her watch. “How are the two that were assaulted?” She grimaced. “Not great, I'm afraid. The Zeyzell has been having regular panic attacks, and the citizen has refused to come out of their house in the past two days. They’re too scared for their Zeyzell counterpart. The two have become great friends, which is good for AR, though.” She said, “AR?” I asked. “Sorry. Many of the grunts have been using it, and it’s very catchy. It’s called alien relations, AR.” I nodded and turned back to the screen as the scene played again. It was the kid, limping off out of the door, who would then disappear from his friend's arms. I glanced up at the screen a little higher, and that’s when I noticed it. A camera is not connected to the system, barely a pixel on the screen. It’s a private camera. How did we not see that? “Sunclick, look up top of the ceiling on the screen,” I told him. He looked up, and his eyes went wide. “It's a private camera! How could we miss that?” he said out loud. “Not important right now. Can you get access to it?” I asked him. This is the chance I've been waiting for to get this person who would dare assault the alien who's making my daughter so happy. “Yes, sir, I can do that!” he proudly exclaimed. After a few quick taps on his computer, multiple connections, errors, and unknown errors, he punched the computer and got a connection. The tape played this time from the front. The angle was a bit weird, so we couldn’t get a good look at the kid's face, But it was what was around his neck that mattered. “I’ll be damned, a pendant of the cult of the old God.” my niece said as we all looked at it in surprised silence. “ I’m gonna have fun tearing that kid apart.” She said as she flexed her power armor claws. I looked at the pendent in silent anger. "Bold of the kid to wear it around in the open like that." She said aloud, and we all agreed. I turned around to the face of other lieutenant commanders. “This is what we’ve been preparing for. You know the drill: get your districts, alert every enforcement office if possible, and get the enforcers on the streets. Get everyone on higher alert. I want more patrols, and I want everything more. Not enough to alert the population that something is happening yet, just more than usual.” They all nodded and streamed out of the room. I turned to leave. However, an open door caught my eye. I turned and walked through it to see my niece standing on the balcony overlooking the city. I wandered out myself, power armor slightly clanking the entire time, the metal hitting the cold, polished concrete of the floor. I also looked at the sprawling metropolis we had built from this hell hole of a planet, its towering walls lined with guns and cannons to keep out the beasties. I walked up beside her and saw that something was in her hands. “What do you have there?” I asked her. I looked at it closely, and it seemed to be some sort of scarf. I didn’t recognize the design or patterns. “Dominic made this for me. I don’t exactly know why. He just kind of did. He didn’t ask for anything in return. He just gave it to me. He said he didn’t want me to get a cold.” She brought the scarf to her neck, which was a perfect fit. She tied it around just underneath her mask, and when she was finished, she let out a puff of steam from her mask. “It's a perfect fit,” I replied, smiled, and looked back out over the city. Looking over it, I thought about our history, the feral's bloodline, and how we have served as the world’s protectors for so long. Now, it was threatened because only two ferals were left: me and my niece. Now, we have aliens to deal with. They seemed nice so far… I leaned a little farther over the railing. A glint of metal in the sky caught my eye and I looked up to see one of the Zeyzell transports coming down, most likely More Humans. I tracked it with my eyes as it landed in one of the newer landing pads with a loud clang, the landing gear hissing as it landed, and saw a large number of my people standing around there waving signs that said “Welcome!” and “Hello new friends!” and other signs that said similar welcoming messages. I smiled and looked over at my niece. “How has the city’s morale been since the aliens have come here?” She quickly opened her wrist computer and typed minor keys on the tiny keypad. I still don't understand how she can use that, the screen is so tiny. “From last time, when it was already an eighty percent increase, an additional twenty-three point four percent.” I smiled even brighter and looked back down. The Zeyzell transport landed, and everybody cheered, and then the door opened as the Humans and a few Zeyzell came off the transport. My people began shouting names. Most likely for exchange partners. Immediately, the aliens again answered the calls and ran to their new friends. Many embraced in tight hugs and made what I assumed were happy noises based on how their mouths moved, as I could hear very little from up here. A few of the humans even started crying as soon as they embraced the larger frames of my species, practically melting into the "floofy fur" as the humans called it, of our fur. I even saw a pup leap from its mom and “run,” although it was more of a quick waddle over to a human and embrace them, making happy beeping sounds the entire time. The human held them so gently as if they were afraid to break. Then, he immediately started to cry uncontrollably. However, with all of the joy and happiness down there that I so loved, I was a bit disturbed by the crying. What in the world could they have gone through that would make something like a simple hug so unique? No, it wasn't the hug itself. I thought about my time on board the ARK ship and what I had seen. I have seen many humans embracing each other and hugs, giving each other kisses or their equivalent of it, I've also seen them embracing and hugging Zeyzell. I was also aware of a lot of inter-species couples and marriages on board the ARK ship. I thought about it very hard, deciphering everything that I had learned on board the ARK ship, in addition to the information that was sent to us very early on, and-... then it clicked. “They aren't crying because they're being shown love…” “What?” My niece asked. I turned fully to her. “They are not crying because they're being shown love. They are crying because another species is showing them love. They're being shown that someone cares about them other than their own species and the Zeyzell.” I turned back to the landing pad and the ship was leaving as all the aliens had found the people they were looking for and were being carried back to cars, walking alongside them, or simply sitting and talking and sharing a meal. As I stood there, it was as if I could feel the emotions coming from the humans: the joy, the happiness, and the sheer love of being accepted. I couldn't explain it, but I felt as though we shared a deeper connection with humans than we initially thought. “Do you feel it?” my niece asked. I looked at her and nodded. “I can feel the joy, happiness, and love they are feeling right now from all the way over here.” I nodded my head. “I think whoever or whatever they were running from was another alien species, based on the information I gathered from the ark ship, the reactions and emotions of the humans down there, and the information I sent to us early on. I had theories before that it was another species they were running from; I know many other people thought that, too, But I think this almost confirms it: they are definitely running from someone. Or were, but now they feel safe here.” I told her as I gestured to all the people below us. My niece nodded. “When I get home, I'm going to give Dominic a big hug.” We remained silent for a time. Just watching the beautiful scene before us as the snow fell slowly and lightly, the trees swayed in the breeze, ever so slightly bending. The wind made a howling noise as it whipped through the tight streets and architecture of our building. I breathed in and let it out, letting my breath turn to steam. I reached out and let the snow fall onto my hand. I brought my hand close, but the snowflake had already melted. My gaze returned to the Humans and Zeyzell, enjoying the snow alongside my people. I turned to my niece. “Our planet may be trying to kill us in over a thousand different ways, but it’s beautiful, huh?” My niece sighed and looked at me. “Yeah, and it’s going to get a lot better now that we have friends, or lovers for some, from beyond the veil.” I nodded and looked back at the snow that now danced in my vision as the Humans and Zeyzell departed with my people. I sighed, and we both returned inside to see Sunclick waiting for us. “You can go nerd out with the humans now,” I told him. ‘“Thank you, sir!” He shot out of the room and down the hall. I smiled and turned back to my niece. “Do you want to grab something to eat? The snow is great right now.” I asked “Sure. However, before that, we should warn the aliens about the cult, huh?” “Oh, definitely,” I told her. I smiled and we walked over to the communication system connecting us to the Aliens. First/Previous/Next |
2024.05.19 16:15 Superb-Teach7258 I believe this movie was a thriller about a production set plagued with suspicious deaths during filming of the production.
Hi. I remember watching this movie years ago on late night TV. It seemed to revolve around a group who were working on a movie (a movie within a movie). Along the filming of this movie members of the cast/crew start dying due to suspicious accidents on set. The protagonist with a supporting actress begins to connect the dots and they come to realise that there is actually a killer among the crew.
I faintly remember the final scenes where the killer gets his comeuppance. The actor and actress are on a boat in the ocean. This might have been a scene from one of the prior accidents/deaths. The actress realises there is a clue under the water (possibly a sunken wreck) and dives into the ocean to retrieve it while the actor keeps an eye out on the boat above. He hears a plane nearing their position but does not realise the killer is flying so he dismisses it and averts his attention back to await the return of the actress who is still underwater.
I guess she finds what they were looking for and heads back to the surface to report her findings. At this point the actor sees the aforementioned plane (revealed to be a seaplane) positioning to land on the water and he now realises it must be the killer who has come to to tie up lose ends. As the killer lands on the water the actress emerges to see this seaplane rapidly approaching her position. The plane was still carrying a lot of momentum from the landing and is gliding across the surface of the water to her position at great speed. She does not have enough time to react to the impending threat and is dispatched as one of the skids (floats) from the plane collides with her head.
This leaves only the actor on the boat and killer. Unfortunately for the killer, the plane collision with the actress causes the seaplane to go into an uncontrolled tumble across the water's surface while he is still strapped in. The tumbling stops near to the boat occupied by the actor and the seaplane then begins to sink beneath the water with the windshield facing up towards the waters surface (camera).
In the killer's final moments the actor takes a vantage point above the rear of the boat staring at the killer beneath the water who is now helplessly trapped. The killer realising his deadly predicament stares up to the actor (camera) above the water.
The killer is unable to unstrap himself from the seat and begins to fruitlessly bang against the inside of the windscreen with his fist in an attempt to escape the sinking plane but he inevitably drowns in short time. The viewers (actor) get a view of his now drowned face as he and the plane continues to gradually sinks further away from the camera till we get a cut back to the protagonist bringing the scene to an end. If I remember correctly the killer had fractured his clavicle in one of the earlier filming related accidents to avert suspicion from himself. One of his arms might have been suspended in plaister mitigating his ability to be able to easily escape the sinking plane fast enough.
I believe I was early teens or younger back then and cannot remember the names of the stars but hopefully my limited description may ring a bell for someone. I tried ChatGPT but did not have much luck. Thanks for your time.
submitted by Superb-Teach7258 to whatsthemoviecalled [link] [comments]
I faintly remember the final scenes where the killer gets his comeuppance. The actor and actress are on a boat in the ocean. This might have been a scene from one of the prior accidents/deaths. The actress realises there is a clue under the water (possibly a sunken wreck) and dives into the ocean to retrieve it while the actor keeps an eye out on the boat above. He hears a plane nearing their position but does not realise the killer is flying so he dismisses it and averts his attention back to await the return of the actress who is still underwater.
I guess she finds what they were looking for and heads back to the surface to report her findings. At this point the actor sees the aforementioned plane (revealed to be a seaplane) positioning to land on the water and he now realises it must be the killer who has come to to tie up lose ends. As the killer lands on the water the actress emerges to see this seaplane rapidly approaching her position. The plane was still carrying a lot of momentum from the landing and is gliding across the surface of the water to her position at great speed. She does not have enough time to react to the impending threat and is dispatched as one of the skids (floats) from the plane collides with her head.
This leaves only the actor on the boat and killer. Unfortunately for the killer, the plane collision with the actress causes the seaplane to go into an uncontrolled tumble across the water's surface while he is still strapped in. The tumbling stops near to the boat occupied by the actor and the seaplane then begins to sink beneath the water with the windshield facing up towards the waters surface (camera).
In the killer's final moments the actor takes a vantage point above the rear of the boat staring at the killer beneath the water who is now helplessly trapped. The killer realising his deadly predicament stares up to the actor (camera) above the water.
The killer is unable to unstrap himself from the seat and begins to fruitlessly bang against the inside of the windscreen with his fist in an attempt to escape the sinking plane but he inevitably drowns in short time. The viewers (actor) get a view of his now drowned face as he and the plane continues to gradually sinks further away from the camera till we get a cut back to the protagonist bringing the scene to an end. If I remember correctly the killer had fractured his clavicle in one of the earlier filming related accidents to avert suspicion from himself. One of his arms might have been suspended in plaister mitigating his ability to be able to easily escape the sinking plane fast enough.
I believe I was early teens or younger back then and cannot remember the names of the stars but hopefully my limited description may ring a bell for someone. I tried ChatGPT but did not have much luck. Thanks for your time.