East side costa mesa
#NIOCORP~ NIOBIUM~& THE QUANTUM INTERNET, U.S. & EU Critical Minerals & more....
2023.03.25 12:32 Chico237 #NIOCORP~ NIOBIUM~& THE QUANTUM INTERNET, U.S. & EU Critical Minerals & more....
 | #NIOCORP~ NIOBIUM~& THE QUANTUM INTERNET, U.S. & EU Critical Minerals & more....New experiment translates quantum information between technologies in an important step for the quantum internetNew experiment translates quantum information between technologies in an important step for the quantum internet (phys.org) =A NIOBIUM superconducting cavity. The holes lead to tunnels which intersect to trap light and atoms. Credit: Aishwarya Kumar Researchers have discovered a way to "translate" quantum information between different kinds of quantum technologies, with significant implications for quantum computing, communication, and networking. The research was published in the journal Nature on Wednesday. It represents a new way to convert quantum information from the format used by quantum computers to the format needed for quantum communication. Photons—particles of light—are essential for quantum information technologies, but different technologies use them at different frequencies. For example, some of the most common quantum computing technology is based on superconducting qubits, such as those used by tech giants Google and IBM; these qubits store quantum information in photons that move at microwave frequencies. But if you want to build a quantum network, or connect quantum computers, you can't send around microwave photons because their grip on their quantum information is too weak to survive the trip. "A lot of the technologies that we use for classical communication—cell phones, Wi-Fi, GPS and things like that—all use microwave frequencies of light," said Aishwarya Kumar, a postdoc at the James Franck Institute at University of Chicago and lead author on the paper. "But you can't do that for quantum communication because the quantum information you need is in a single photon. And at microwave frequencies, that information will get buried in thermal noise." The solution is to transfer the quantum information to a higher-frequency photon, called an optical photon, which is much more resilient against ambient noise. But the information can't be transferred directly from photon to photon; instead, we need intermediary matter. Some experiments design solid state devices for this purpose, but Kumar's experiment aimed for something more fundamental: atoms. The electrons in atoms are only ever allowed to have certain specific amounts of energy, called energy levels. If an electron is sitting at a lower energy level, it can be excited to a higher energy level by hitting it with a photon whose energy exactly matches the difference between the higher and lower level. Similarly, when an electron is forced to drop to a lower energy level, the atom then emits a photon with an energy that matches the energy difference between levels. Rubidium atoms happen to have two gaps in their levels that Kumar's technology exploits: one that exactly equals the energy of a microwave photon, and one that exactly equals the energy of an optical photon. By using lasers to shift the atom's electron energies up and down, the technology allows the atom to absorb a microwave photon with quantum information and then emit an optical photon with that quantum information. This translation between different modes of quantum information is called "transduction." Effectively using atoms for this purpose is made possible by the significant progress scientists have made in manipulating such small objects. "We as a community have built remarkable technology in the last 20 or 30 years that lets us control essentially everything about the atoms," Kumar said. "So the experiment is very controlled and efficient." He says the other secret to their success is the field's progress in cavity quantum electrodynamics, where a photon is trapped in a superconducting, reflective chamber. Forcing the photon to bounce around in an enclosed space, the superconducting cavity strengthens the interaction between the photon and whatever matter is placed inside it. Their chamber doesn't look very enclosed—in fact, it more closely resembles a block of Swiss cheese. But what look like holes are actually tunnels that intersect in a very specific geometry, so that photons or atoms can be trapped at an intersection. It's a clever design that also allows researchers access to the chamber so they can inject the atoms and the photons. The technology works both ways: it can transfer quantum information from microwave photons to optical photons, and vice versa. So it can be on either side of a long-distance connection between two superconducting qubit quantum computers, and serve as a fundamental building block to a quantum internet. But Kumar thinks there may be a lot more applications for this technology than just quantum networking. Its core ability is to strongly entangle atoms and photons—an essential, and difficult task in many different quantum technologies across the field. "One of the things that we're really excited about is the ability of this platform to generate really efficient entanglement," he said. "Entanglement is central to almost everything quantum that we care about, from computing to simulations to metrology and atomic clocks. I'm excited to see what else we can do." Old School Meets New School: Critical Minerals Used in Quantum ComputingOld School Meets New School: Critical Minerals Used in Quantum Computing Pillsbury - Internet & Social Media Law Blog - JDSuprahttps://preview.redd.it/q2fgzcylgvpa1.png?width=252&format=png&auto=webp&s=464c88f9e032b195da928a6448170f0cb42218e3 Quantum technology runs on the notoriously difficult-to-stabilize qubit. Unlike binary bits in classical physical components in computers and cell phones, qubits can operate in more than one state at a time (known as superposition), and they have an uncanny ability to remain interconnected with one another even when separated (known as entanglement). These features mean that the speed with which quantum computers can solve problems is virtually limitless—once science understands how to capitalize on their abilities, that is. An MIT article reports that an encryption problem that only a short while ago was thought to require billions of qubits may be susceptible to solution with a much more manageable number. But there’s a hang-up—quantum machines are finicky. They tend to like things quiet, still and cold, in some cases requiring a temperature around absolute zero, or about -460 degrees Fahrenheit. The quantum computing process must be isolated and protected from “decoherence.” Noise in the system means that answer-checking routines consume enormous amounts of computational effort and energy. Scientists are still working out the best ways to help quantum machines function in real-world scenarios. Regardless of the paths taken to get there, it seems a given that rare earth metals and other critical materials will prove essential building blocks. Rare earths themselves are described in our prior post concerning their use in the energy transition. Each element has subtle differences in charge characteristics that can be isolated with precision in the beneficiation, processing and manufacturing process. That precision can in turn address this field’s other biggest challenges—scalability and reproduction. As scholars grapple with these puzzles, a number of techniques have emerged for taming otherwise rowdy qubits, each with its own material needs. Some of the elements are household names, while others are generally known only as obscure boxes on a high-school chemistry class periodic table. Superconducting: At a low-enough temperature, metals like aluminum and niobium.) no longer offer electrical resistance. This phenomenon makes them popular options for keeping fussy qubits stable in superconductor systems. Superconducting quantum computers are perhaps farthest along on their path to usability, with tech companies betting heavily on the approach. For example, Rigetti Computing is making advances in quantum computers and the superconducting quantum processors used to power them.
[View source.] Europe turbo charges its critical minerals driveColumn: Europe turbo charges its critical minerals drive ReutersGeothermal water is seen through a sight glass at a pipeline system of a geothermal power station of German power supplier EnBW Energie Baden Wuerttemberg AG, where a pilot facility for lithium extraction will be built, in Bruchsal, Germany, April 23, 2021. REUTERS/Ralph Orlowski LONDON, March 24 (Reuters) - The European Union has unveiled the accelerator in its drive to reduce the bloc's import dependency for critical minerals and metals. The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) "will significantly improve" Europe's domestic extraction, processing and recycling capacity for metals such as lithium and rare earths, according to Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. The Act comes with targets for production and for reducing dependency on any single third country. China currently dominates the supply chain for many of the entries on Europe's list of "strategic" metals. The EU is also playing catch-up with the United States, which is already investing heavily in critical metals capacity under the aegis of the Defense Production Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Europe may, however, have given itself a competitive edge by moving to streamline project permitting, a tortuous process that often drags on for years before the first shovel hits the ground. (MOVING) TARGETSThe CRMA covers a subset of the EU's critical minerals list, with particular focus on battery metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt and manganese and magnet inputs such as boron and rare earths.Copper is on the list as an enabler of all things electric but aluminium and zinc aren't, which is a striking omission given the recent shrinkage of European production capacity. Germany's Speira has joined the list of casualties, this month announcing the full closure of its Rheinwerk aluminium smelter due to high energy costs. "Today's strategic raw materials list must not be the finished picture," warned Evangelos Mytilineos, president of industry group Eurometaux. It probably won't be. The CRMA includes a provision for periodically updating the list to reflect evolving economic importance and supply risks across the critical metals spectrum. For those metals on the list the target is for the region to mine 10%, process 40% and recycle 15% of what it consumes annually by 2030. By which time not more than 65% of any strategic metal's consumption will be able to come from a single third country. These are ambitious targets given Europe currently sources 97% of its magnesium in China, which also has a complete monopoly on the processing of heavy rare earths and graphite. Europe's lithium extraction can in theory meet the 10% target but it hinges on multiple new projects, many of them using innovative technology. Recycling lithium-ion batteries is also a technical challenge that has to be resolved at scale to meet the 15% recycling target. PERMITTINGIn terms of maximising domestic mining and processing capacity, Europe is following the United States in instructing all national governments to go back and look at what may have been left behind in tailings ponds and historic mine sites.Operators of existing mines and plants should prepare an economic assessment study of what they're losing in "waste" streams. It's a policy that has already significantly closed the U.S. dependency gap for tellurium and scandium. However, Europe has overtaken the United States in one key area, aiming to streamline the permitting of "strategic" projects to ensure a maximum time-line of two years for mines and one year for processing plants. All such projects should be considered as being "in the public interest" by the relevant national authority when considering environmental impact. The U.S. Administration has come under fire for using the Inflation Reduction Act to incentivise domestic mining while simultaneously blocking development of mines on federal land. The green-on-green environmental clashes seem set to continue until there is a long-overdue rewrite of the General Mining Act of 1872. COLLECTIVE BUYING AND STOCKPILESMany strategic metals markets are opaque, not easily financially hedged and concentrated on the supply side, according to the CRMA. All of which "increases the negotiating power of sellers and increase prices for buyers".It calls for the Commission to set up a system for collective purchasing by interested buyers, a mechanism already trialled in the gas market. It also recommends the accumulation of strategic metal stocks to buffer against unexpected supply disruptions. Europe has no strategic metal inventory, unlike the United States, China and South Korea. Member states may have their own stockpiles and "as a first step and considering the lack of relevant information", the 27 countries in the bloc should report to the Commission what, if anything, they are holding. Given such a humble starting point, it seems unlikely EU strategic metal reserves are going to come any time soon, if they come at all. METALLIC ARMS RACEThe EU accepts it will never be fully self-sufficient in most if any of the metals it's identified as being critical to its industrial and defence sectors.The CRMA advocates diversifying supply in favour of "reliable partners" and creating "mutually beneficial partnerships with emerging market and developing economies". It represents a further tectonic decoupling of global supply chains. What started as a response to China's dominance of critical metals supply has been accelerated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russia has historically been a major supplier of aluminium, copper and nickel to Europe's industrial sector to the extent that the EU has to date held back from sanctioning Russian material even as the United States imposes penal import duties. But the metals world is clearly starting to split between West and the East. It's a messy process, witness the dispute between the EU and the United States over the exclusion of European products from the electric vehicle subsidies introduced in the Inflation Reduction Act. That particular hurdle may shortly be cleared, German newspaper Handlesblatt reporting that a draft agreement has been reached. It is evidently in neither side's interest to compete with each other in the context of reducing resource ties with China and Russia. Assuming future trans-Atlantic harmony can be achieved, something akin to a metallic NATO will start to take ever clearer shape. BIS Issues Proposed Rule to Establish “Guardrails” to Prevent the Improper Use of CHIPS Act FundingPosted on March 24, 2023POSTED IN BIS, SEMICONDUCTORS, SUPPLY CHAINBIS Issues Proposed Rule to Establish “Guardrails” to Prevent the Improper Use of CHIPS Act Funding SmarTrade (thompsonhinesmartrade.com) https://preview.redd.it/afhv01j2gvpa1.png?width=330&format=png&auto=webp&s=1e7afcabb3fac7d8c724f325d91bfaf41b9421ba On March 23, 2023, the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking implementing measures to prevent the improper use of CHIPS Act Incentives Program funding. Described as “guardrails,” the proposed rules are intended to ensure technology and innovation funded by the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act are not used for malign purposes by adversarial countries against the United States or its allies and partners. The CHIPS Act was enacted in August 2022 to incentivize the manufacture of semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment in the United States, especially amid growing national security concerns and economic competition risks posed by China’s increasing chip production in recent years. It provides appropriations to develop domestic manufacturing critical to U.S. competitiveness and national security interests. See Update of July 29, 2022. The proposed rule provides additional details on national security measures that would be applicable to the CHIPS Incentives Program, including limiting recipients of funding from investing in the expansion of semiconductor manufacturing in foreign countries of concern (i.e., China, Russia, Iran and North Korea). According to BIS, these guardrails “will advance shared national security interests as the U.S. continues coordinating and collaborating with allies and partners to make global supply chains more resilient and diversified.” The proposed rule provides additional details on and definitions for these national security guardrails, including:
Establishing Restrictive Standards and Limiting Facility ExpansionTo protect national security and the resiliency of supply chains, CHIPS Incentives Program funds may not be provided to a foreign entity of concern. The proposed rule provides a detailed explanation of what is meant by “foreign entities of concern,” as well as a definition of “owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of.” The proposed rule defines other terms used in the CHIPS Act (including terms that will be used in required agreements with funding recipients), identifies the types of transactions that are prohibited under the Expansion Clawback and Technology Clawback sections of the CHIPS Act and provides a description of the process for notifying the Secretary of Commerce of significant transactions involving expansion of semiconductor manufacturing in a foreign country of concern.Classifying Semiconductors as Critical to National SecurityWhile the CHIPS Act allows companies to expand production of legacy chips in foreign countries of concern in limited circumstances, the proposed rule would classify a list of semiconductors as critical to U.S. national security. In doing so, the rule would define “legacy semiconductors” subject to tighter restrictions, which would include “current-generation and mature-node chips used for quantum computing, in radiation-intensive environments, and for other specialized military capabilities.” The proposed rule seeks to also clarify what would not be considered legacy semiconductors.Reinforcing U.S. Export ControlsIn October 2022, BIS implemented export controls to prevent China from purchasing and manufacturing advanced chips that would enhance that country’s military capabilities. See Update of October 31, 2022. The proposed rule provides definitions that are harmonious with and reinforce these export controls “by aligning prohibited technology thresholds for memory chips between export controls and CHIPS national security guardrails.” Accordingly, the proposed rule applies a more restrictive threshold for logic chips than is used for export controls.U.S. lays out possible critical raw materials agreement with EU -HandelsblattDig, Dig, Dig: US and Europe Target China’s Grip on Critical Raw MineralsBy Otto LanzavecchiaMarch 23, 2023Europe and the US share a common goal — increasing self-sufficiency for minerals and tech products needed to fight climate change. Alignment looks set to defuse transatlantic trade tensions. The European Commission unveiled this month a two-pronged strategy to reduce its dependency on China and boost its green industries. The Critical Raw Materials Act aims to wean the continent off Chinese critical minerals. The Net-Zero Industry Act is geared at boosting the EU’s production of clean tech equipment by a recent decision to relax strict state aid rules. Together, the proposals represent Europe’s response to the US pressure against China and to compete with protectionist subsidies included in the US’s Inflation Reduction Act. Although a danger remains that the US’s generous pockets and hard-line approach against China will sow discord, these European moves signal a desire to strengthen the transatlantic alliance. Start back in August 2022, when the US Congress passed the IRA, which contained gargantuan government subsidies to US industries. Europeans were aghast. Confronted with sky-high energy prices and roaring inflation, they could hear a deafening sucking sound of investments leaving the continent and heading across the Atlantic Ocean. The US subsidies jolted European capitals to reconsider their strict limits on state aid, instrumental in building and preserving the European single market. At the same time, Vladimir Putin’s weaponization of gas exports woke up the continent to the danger of Chinese-supplied critical raw materials and Beijing’s dominance in green industries, such as solar panels and electric car batteries. If China cut sales of these key products, Europe’s plans for its ecological and digital transition would be at risk of collapse — not unlike the United States’. How could Europeans condemn Americans for steeling themselves against the same threat they faced? The answer to that question challenged the EU’s status quo, and European capitals began tilting westward. In January, while speaking in Davos, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen downplayed frictions over the IRA and stressed the need to “de-risk” vis a vis China. The Biden administration took constructive steps: it began exploring extending some of the IRA’s benefits to European industries. US Trade Representative Katherine Tai had been urging the EU to develop its own, parallel strategy on subsidies and reshoring, saying that the US wanted to “work with our friends and allies to allow us to together build a resiliency and to wean us off some dependencies.” An agreement on critical raw materials would allow the US to extend the IRA’s reach to European industries, indicated US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. EU countries began to adhere to the US-led Minerals Security Partnership, aiming to create a like-minded critical raw material “buyers’ club” between democratic countries. The political breakthrough came on March 10. President von der Leyen went to the White House to meet President Biden, while back home her Commission relaxed state aid rules. Afterward, they produced a statement signaling a transatlantic climate truce. And upon her return to Brussels, the Commission launched the two-pronged legislative proposals. The Net Zero Industry Act aims to ensure that European produces at least 40% of European demand for green products by 2030. EU governments will be able to match subsidies provided in other countries “where there is a real risk of investments being diverted away from Europe,” according to European Commissioner Margrethe Vestager. The Critical Raw Materials Act aims to supply Europe’s green industries with crucial inputs. European mining and refining must cover at least 10% of the EU critical raw materials by 2030. That would be a giant feat for a continent that spent decades outsourcing most of the extraction and production. Key provisions have China written all over them. If a foreign country has more than 65% of the market, its companies will have little chance of winning a public contract in the EU. For context, Beijing controls more than 80% EU market share in the solar sector. Permitting will be sped up. It can take up to 15 years to get the green light for a new mining project in Europe. Under the Critical Raw Materials Act, mines designated as strategic must receive a decision on permits within two years. Critics question whether Europe can achieve its stated goals. Environmentalists have vowed to oppose projects to mine lithium and other minerals, citing the danger to water and nature preserves. Business leaders from Solvay, Merck, and Dow warn that the Net Zero Industry Act offers too little funding and is too complex to compete against the US’s $369 billion of green tax incentives and subsidies. Even so, the European proposals signal a U-turn in economic policymaking — and a potential transatlantic alignment. On both sides of the Atlantic, the love affair with free markets and globalization is fading. Instead of market-driven decision-making, we are entering an era of strategic planning with democracies moving to onshore and subsidizing critical industries. The transition will be rocky and perilous. Divergences over how hard to hit China could re-emerge. The US takes a hard line, while European officials continue to consider Beijing both a “rival” and a “partner.” But both Brussels and Washington are working hard not to let their support for green tech deteriorate into a counter-productive and protectionist subsidy race. If they work together, they could shore up the democratic world’s shift to clean tech.Modelling and experimental investigation of Nb2O5 as a high-rate battery anode material FORM YOUR OWN OPINIONS & CONCLUSION ABOVEDecember 2022 E & MJ (e-mj.com)Dec. ISSUE... For a little light flip through with Coffee! NIOCORP WILL PRODUCE & PROCESS THE CRITICAL MINERALS NIOBIUM, TITANIUM & SCANDIUM, & VIABLE REE's https://preview.redd.it/hzpir9ozcvpa1.png?width=1080&format=png&auto=webp&s=c1532488aa724f8e16cfa8d6ecd4911e1b4a4e59 WAITING FOR NIOCORP TO "RING THE BELL!" on the NASDAQ, & FOR MATERIAL NEWS AS IT BECOMES AVAILABLE! https://preview.redd.it/v6itf0sm2vpa1.png?width=218&format=png&auto=webp&s=68cd0d59cdf8ddb0b91ad86f372028e3baf763d5 Chico |
2023.03.25 12:21 jookco #Breaking : One person killed and another injured in a shooting incident on the east side of the city early Satu... Read Story : https://countylocalnews.com/?feed_id=24779
submitted by jookco to u/jookco [link] [comments]
2023.03.25 11:30 beansiesrule I get to watch my family travel the world while I stay at home
I have an odd family dynamic. It’s not super wild, but my parents divorced when I was really young and since then both of them remarried. My stepmom and dad live a normal middle class life, but my mom decided to marry up.
I don’t have an issue with this but her choice in men has always been… shitty. My stepdad likes me, but I think in a more he tolerates me kind of way. I don’t think he prefers my company. Which honestly, I don’t care. He’s an alcoholic so whatever.
My issue is just more on my… I guess jealousy of my mom, stepdad, and stepsister. My stepsister obviously grew up with her dad so he was able to give her things and live in a big house. I have no issue with my stepsister and love her to death, I’m so glad she’s in my life. But I do get jealous of the things she’s able to do and I dont.
My stepdad often travels for business and brings my mom. They’ve been to Australia, France, Germany, etc. I am very jealous as I love to travel, but I know there’s not much I can do about it… The part that just sucks the most for me is my stepsister being able to also go with them places.
She travels to France because that is where her mom’s side of the family is from. So I can’t be truly mad about the fact she gets to travel to Europe because it’s for her family, but my mom gets to go with too and stepdad. It’s rare my stepsister goes without my mom also being there. I don’t know… I know it’s just my jealousy because I wish I could travel, and I know my sister only goes because something is usually wrong with the family out there…
Every spring break, my family goes to Florida and I have never been invited once. My family says it’s because I wouldn’t like the things they do. They also said this when they went to Costa Rica and didn’t invite me. “You would’ve hated it”. Well… I guess I would’ve… glad I got a choice…
I just feel like I’ve been forced to be an adult way before my sister. I’m 3 years older than her and I’ve graduated college, but even when I was in college I never got invited anywhere but she does… I just went to school and worked. I just have too many complaints. I’m currently going through a bunch of health issues which made me leave my dream job so I’m stuck at my other parents home doing nothing all day every day so I think I’m just extra salty and in my feelings all the time… oh well.
submitted by beansiesrule to TrueOffMyChest [link] [comments]
I don’t have an issue with this but her choice in men has always been… shitty. My stepdad likes me, but I think in a more he tolerates me kind of way. I don’t think he prefers my company. Which honestly, I don’t care. He’s an alcoholic so whatever.
My issue is just more on my… I guess jealousy of my mom, stepdad, and stepsister. My stepsister obviously grew up with her dad so he was able to give her things and live in a big house. I have no issue with my stepsister and love her to death, I’m so glad she’s in my life. But I do get jealous of the things she’s able to do and I dont.
My stepdad often travels for business and brings my mom. They’ve been to Australia, France, Germany, etc. I am very jealous as I love to travel, but I know there’s not much I can do about it… The part that just sucks the most for me is my stepsister being able to also go with them places.
She travels to France because that is where her mom’s side of the family is from. So I can’t be truly mad about the fact she gets to travel to Europe because it’s for her family, but my mom gets to go with too and stepdad. It’s rare my stepsister goes without my mom also being there. I don’t know… I know it’s just my jealousy because I wish I could travel, and I know my sister only goes because something is usually wrong with the family out there…
Every spring break, my family goes to Florida and I have never been invited once. My family says it’s because I wouldn’t like the things they do. They also said this when they went to Costa Rica and didn’t invite me. “You would’ve hated it”. Well… I guess I would’ve… glad I got a choice…
I just feel like I’ve been forced to be an adult way before my sister. I’m 3 years older than her and I’ve graduated college, but even when I was in college I never got invited anywhere but she does… I just went to school and worked. I just have too many complaints. I’m currently going through a bunch of health issues which made me leave my dream job so I’m stuck at my other parents home doing nothing all day every day so I think I’m just extra salty and in my feelings all the time… oh well.
2023.03.25 10:44 Shot-Escape-8971 Lost tagalog pocketbook
 | submitted by Shot-Escape-8971 to Philippines [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 10:40 Sinpleton025 Rifts of War - Chapter 2
Three moon cycles later
Galdush fields, Meilume region of the Empire
The time has come and the troops are ready. The chosen commander of Imperial forces is Ylyndar Glynra, general of the IV army, commanding twenty-five thousand infantry, ten thousand cavalry, ten thousand archers along with one hundred wyverns, one hundred battle mages and hundreds of siege elements for a total of fifty thousand troops. The vassal forces number forty thousand. Ten thousand dwarves from Nundolar commanded by Bardek Leadmaster and ten thousand from Halboram under Dalmin Bronzering. The Rosians sent twenty thousand in total under the command of Bodin Zorgen of Alston, king Thavok's eldest son. The imperials have also brought an auxiliary force of ten thousand slaves, which include ferral orcs, trolls, ogres, swine, lepians, feelians, leanoids, and welfen.
In total, the invasion force numbered one hundred thousand strong and they were to start the land attack in the Galdush fields. At the same time, the VI fleet of one hundred ships of various sizes gathered in the western waters away from the port city of Lashil. Admiral Lothar Tanros was also tasked with opening a rift and to attack the enemy's shoreline, making the invasion a pincer assault.
"It is time, general.", a captain said proudly.
"Indeed.", Ylandar replied, "I cannot wait to bring the emperor's light to this savage world. Are the mages in place?"
"Yes, general. They are finishing the ritual. It is a pity we cannot open more rifts."
"Any more and the spiritual energy of North Altia will be completely drained. I do not wish to destroy our world along with theirs."
"Understood sir.", at that moment, a large rift opened up. It was thirty steps wide, ten steps tall, and shining in bright blue. All soldiers stared at it with amazement and fright. This was the gateway to the savage land they were warned about, they must remain vigilant. "I shall prepare the first wave."
"Hold. I shall go.", Ylindar said.
"S-Sir? Are you certain?"
"Yes. I will lead the first wave.". With that, he rode to Bardek, Dalmin, and Bodin. "You know the plan. All Rosian troops, half of the dwarves, the entire auxiliary, and ten thousand of my own troops. Once a foothold has been established, a messenger will ride back and inform the rest of the troops to begin the second wave. The navy has most likely begun its attack. We must hurry. For the light!"
With that they marched forward into the rift, unaware of the dangers they will face. All they could do is pray to the spirits.
---
History is not kind. Many bad things happened throughout human history. Wars, plagues, destruction, and death beyond counting. On top of that, humans themselves were never the best of people. It is they who caused all of it to happen and it is also they who keep doing it. History has always described humans as selfish and self-harming, but history is written by the winner. And this time, the good wins.
The great virus that occurred in the third decade ravaged the planet, killing millions of people. But through human genius, a cure was made and the death was stopped. However, it was then that the true culprits were discovered. One of the greatest problems of humanity is overpopulation. We have grown soft and stopped "culling the herd" so that a sensible number can thrive and be strong. A group calling themselves 'True salvation', sought to fix this. Through decades of careful planning and manipulation, they've reached a solution. For mankind to prosper it needs to suffer. So they showed themselves in 2034 and declared that they will do what was necessary to save the Earth. So they set off fires and explosions all throughout the world. Thousands upon thousands of factories and industries were destroyed, the capital and major cities were devastated, planes kept crashing, ships kept sinking, and it was chaos. The death toll was in the millions, even hundreds of millions as every country suffered.
But the salvationist forgot one important thing. These are human beings. By attacking them all they've united them all. Global governments decided they will not stand by idly while their people were being killed for some 'greater good'. In a united effort, after fifteen years, they tracked down and eliminated the salvationists, ending the crisis. But now the bigger problem took the stage. The world was in chaos and it needed fixing. So for the future years, that is exactly what happened. A new generation replaced the old one and with everyone united they not only repaired but also advanced. New technologies were invented, and life became better. Artificial limbs became more common, medicine was more advanced and the military received more than one upgrade so that no future threat can harm the nations.
NATO got more support from South America and Australia, while East Europe and Asia created a new block called Easter Powers Alliance. The UN now strictly enforces laws against drugs and poachers are shot on sight so to protect the wild and plant life. Renewable energy sources are spread across the world and the atmosphere is being healed. Many monuments were built for the victims of the salvationists. It goes to show that no matter how much humanity is battered, it would always rise stronger.
And now? Now it is the year 2070 and things are going just fine.
5th of May, 2070
Lumberton, North Carolina
The Northeast park is always a wonderful place to visit. With playgrounds and baseball fields, it was always cheerful. Right now the Jaguars were playing against the Bulls and hundreds of people gathered to watch. Officers Bradly O'Neil, or just Brad, and Jack Mitchel pulled their police car over to watch the game.
"So who do think is winning this time?", Jack asked.
"My money is on the Bulls.", Brad said, "They're winning right now."
"No one knows man. I have a gut feeling the Jaguars are gonna make a comeback."
In that moment, a Jaguar pitcher threw the ball and the Bull hit it with the bat, sending it out of the ring.
"Hooooo! Another home run by the Bulls!", said the announcer, "If they keep this up they will win it all!"
The Bull ran full circle and when he finished, a tremor shook the ground. Suddenly, a large rectangle of light appeared. It was nearly fifty feet wide and sixteen feet tall. People were confused and everyone tried to wrap their heads around what exactly was happening.
"Brad?", Jack asked, "Did anyone order a light show?"
"At four pm? Unlikely.", Brad said as he grabbed his radio, "Dispatch this is officer O'Neil, we have a situation at the Northeast park. Unclear if it is a threat but I require reinforcements and-"
Out of the light, men started appearing. They were strange to say the least. They wore medieval-like armor and has pink skin. Behind them appeared something that freaked people out and scarred them even more. Things they would only see in fantasy movies. Green-skinned orcs, dwarves, and even huge dragon-like lizards. No one understood how they got here but they understood their purpose as they attacked the players and spectators.
The green-skinned and pig-like monsters killed and ate everyone they could find. The dragons flew in the air and arrows rained down on the people.
Brad took the radio again and shouted, "Threat confirmed! I repeat the threat is confirmed! Send reinforcements and alert the national guard! They're killing everyone! We need-"
A pig-like monster jumped at him but it got blasted away by a shotgun. "Power or speed?", asked Jack who shot the gun.
"Speed. I'll take the smaller ones.", he replied and grabbed the shotgun while Jack took the SMG, "We have to save as many people as we can! Come on!"
---
The attack is a success. Already these pale-skinned savages flee and are killed by the dozens and soon hundreds. This field will serve as a good foothold for the invasion.
Prince Bodin looked over the scenery and thought, 'This doesn't look like a land filled with chaos. Were the visions a lie after all?'
"Prince Bodin.", called general Ylindar, "It is glorious is it not? We will slaughter these savages and take the lands in the name of the light. I need you to send your forces over to the structures to the southwest, I have already dispatched the dwarves and auxillia to the south."
"This place is not like the one explained in the vision."
"That does not matter. You are to gather as many slaves as you can and kill all the soldiers that attack you. We must clear a path for the second wave." Bodin internally cursed but went with the orders and called his men.
"Sir!", called a captain, "There are several savages that are causing problems for us."
"What do you mean?"
"They are hiding behind strange metal carts and it appears they have boomsticks much like the dwarves."
"Send a group of mages with dwarves and crush them."
"Right away sir!". With that, the captain left and Ylindar started setting up the stronghold and preparing the letter for the second wave.
Five mages along with a hundred dwarf warriors and shooters. The two dozen savages hid behind metal carts and fired at the orcs and swine that ran at them. The dwarves took aim and fired but they only killed a couple. The savages fired and the mages tried to create a force shield, but something was wrong. There was no energy in this world and magic didn't work.
"What's the problem?", asked a dwarf.
"I-I don't know. I can't-"
Before he could finish, he fell to the ground with a hole in his head. The dwarves started to fall as well. The warriors put up their shields, but the weapons of the savages tore through them. Eventually, enough orcs and swine pushed them and killed most while taking one prisoner.
---
Some time later
Noble self-service storage
Bodin never liked the empire or the emperor. They killed his grandfather just because they wanted freedom. But right now, he didn't have a choice. Denying a direct imperial order is a death sentence. He needed to make sure his kingdom, as well as the others, by doing their bidding and dirty work.
On his way to the strange structures, he encountered strange things. Metal carts that moved without horses and the wide roads made of flat stones, as well as soldiers with repeating boomsticks. For every one of them he lost dozens, but they couldn't hold on for long. Bodin gave explicate orders not to kill any retreating soldiers or innocent people. They won't become monstrous killers like the elves.
After a while, they reached the structures. Rows of identical buildings locked with metal doors. They opened them one by one and only found different pieces of furniture and sometimes jewelry.
"Take anything of value.", Bodin said, "We have taken enough people captive. After we are done here we will report to general Ylindar. Captain, take the captives back quickly. I fear the men we've faced are but a fraction of their army."
"Yes my lord.", the captain said and left with his troops in a hurry.
"Are you starting to doubt the visions, prince Bodin.", spoke a man next to him, "Because so far I am."
"Viscount Iaw.", replied Bodin, "I know what you mean. These people don't look like the savage barbarians the elves told us about. They look like us."
"While I do agree with you on that, you cannot deny the differences. These structures look so robust, and the roads are completely flat. The boomsticks, and the metal carts, clearly these people possess great magic and machines. I cannot imagine what would happen if the empire got its hands on them."
"Don't even say that. Let's just get these items back to-". His sentence was cut by a loud explosion that came from the other side of the structures. Bits and pieces of armor, weapons, and bodies fell on all sides. The men panicked as more explosions came from all sides.
"They have cannons!", yelled Bodin, "Scatter! Find the shooters!". After he gave his orders the soldiers ran to all sides, but they stopped shortly after noticing something in the air. Enemy wyverns? No. They looked different and were made of metal much like the carriages. Several of them filled the sky and inside were soldiers with aimed cannons who opened fire on the Rosians. The soldiers died by the hundreds and Bodin knew he was in danger.
"We have to get out of here!", yelled Iaw and hurried forward on his horse. Bodin and the others followed but they slowed down as they saw a roadblock of large and bulky metal carriages. Dozens of enemies came out of them and prepared their weapons.
"I shall clear a path for you!", said Iaw and charged at the enemy with his troops. Bodin attempted to stop him but to no avail. The enemies opened fire and Iaw was filled with holes along with his men. They didn't even get close before they were slaughtered. Paralyzed by fear, the remaining Rosian troops did the only sensible thing, they surrendered. Now they can only hope for the enemy to be merciful.
---
'This was supposed to be a slow day.", thought lieutenant Jefferson, 'What the hell did we get ourselves into.'
This was beyond strange. A portal opening up in Northeast park, fantasy, and medieval people coming out of it and attacking people? This wasn't what Mark signed up to fight. But he did sign up to defend the United States from any threat. This one counts.
As he rode in his helicopter he saw the other choppers literally slaughtering the 'enemy'. If you can call people with swords and bows riding on a horse a proper enemy. They were being killed in the thousands and only several hundred were left at the storage facilities.
"Lieutenant, are you ok?", asked a sergeant, "You spaced out."
"I'm fine Thomas. This is just beyond me. But I guess it's not our job to think about it.", he stood up and grabbed the rope, "We're going down!"
They lowered themselves from the helicopter and got into formation. They moved through the roads and shot every enemy that came after them. It wasn't hard, these 'knights' weren't much of a threat as long as they were out of range.
"Cavalry behind us!", yelled Thomas. The platoon got into a firing line and opened fire, cutting down the dozens of horses and 'men' riding them. As they continued forward they arrived at the JLTVs placed to block the enemy's advance.
"Lieutenant Mark Jefferson.", he said as he saluted.
"Sergeant Norman Cole. Sir, you're not gonna believe this."
"We are under attack by Lord of the rings characters in pink. Try me."
"Well, these people speak a different language, unsurprisingly. But when I introduced myself they spoke English."
This did surprise Mark. "English? Are you sure?"
"Yes. There's an accent definitely but it's unmistakable. And that guy with the cape and silver helmet? He's the leader. Prince Bodin of Alston."
After some pondering, Mark answered, "Load them up in the trucks. Separate the more important ones. I need to get in touch with the forces sent to Food lion."
"Yes, sir."
'This keeps getting weirder and weirder.', Mark thought.
---
Earlier
Near Food lion
Zoya was not happy about this. Being forced to fight for these oppressors alongside animals. It was degrading. But she didn't have a choice. It was serve or die. Because of their animal features, lepians and feelians are sent first to scout the area and bring information. But what the others were doing was horrible.
All around she could see the feral orcs butchering people and raid homes, the swine, trolls, and ogres eating people alive, and the dwarves plundering treasures and taking weapons. It was disgusting. The forces did suffer casualties. These people were armed with weapons more powerful than even the dwarves had. The feral beast suffered the most. Even the trolls and ogress fell to being shot enough times. But eventually, they had to run away.
Plunging her dagger into a blue-clothed soldier's back, Zoya let out a tired sigh. "How much longer?", she asked herself.
"As long as it takes.", said a woman behind her.
"Bora. I thought you were killed."
"I was almost. But I lost many of my own. These weapons are deadly. If we dodge one shot ten more appear."
"What's taking you so long, rabbit?", asked the dwarven general Dalmin in a disrespectful attitude, "I thought you lepians were supposed to be expert scouts."
"Don't talk down at us, dwarf.", said Bora.
"Shut it cat! Or I'll grind you into meat and feed you to my hog.", Bora hissed at that, "Now, get going. It won't be long before Bardek arrives and I intend to have more fun.". With that he rode off, leaving Zoya and Bora.
"I'm going to kill him one day.", said Bora.
Zoya looked behind her and saw a group of children running away from a swine and a feral orc. They went inside what looked like a large market. Zoya ran after them and Bora quickly followed. They reached the mark and when they entered it they saw the women and children cowering in a corner as the swine and orc closed in. Zoya rushed at the orc and slit its throat then quickly spun around and kicked the swine, knocking it to the ground. Without wasting time she plunged her dagger into its heart. She walked over to the children and gestured for them to calm down.
"What was that?", Bora asked.
"I'm not letting let innocent people get butchered and eaten by monsters."
"But if the elves find out-"
"They won't. We can-", she stopped midway after her ears twitched. Looking out the window she saw and hear explosions. That must be this world's army. Dalmin rode on his hog to lead a charge against their metal carriages but was cut down by the enemy's weapons.
Zoya and Bora were scared. Their people were dying and soon they will follow. But just then, a little girl walked to her side and pulled her hand. "Don't worry.", she spoke in the imperial tongue, which surprised Zoya, "We'll tell them you saved us."
---
"This is pretty insane isn't it sir?", asked a soldier.
"It sure is Paterson.", said the sergeant, "Let's just kill everything that can't talk first and worry about the rest later."
"Rodger.". They exited the Bradley and got to work, opening fire on what looked like dwarves and orcs. The Bradley itself focused on the larger targets while the soldiers moved in. House by house and street by street they moved in. The dwarves fired their musket-like weapons but they only managed to land a few lucky shots. The new M16A5 assault rifle with 6.8mm bullets tore through their armor and shields.
An ogre started charging from the back lines, swinging his large stone on a chain. "Paterson! Fire your grenade launcher!", ordered the sergeant. Paterson fired and upon impact the grenade exploded, leaving a gaping hole in the ogre's chest and bursting its organs all around. The battle continued and the stubborn dwarves fought as well as the ugly monsters. The only ones that surrendered were the animalistic 'people'.
As the soldiers progressed they saw horrid things. People were being eaten and ripped apart by the monsters as they screamed and begged for their lives. Homes burned and vehicles crushed. This won't go unanswered. "Kill them all!", yelled the sergeant, and the soldiers happily obliged.
With rifles, grenades, and machine guns they slaughtered the monsters. Trolls and ogres were blown to pieces, orcs, and swine riddled with holes like Swiss cheese. Even the stubborn dwarves were shown little mercy. The sergeant continued with his men to Food lion where he spotted two animal-like people, one looked like a cat and the other like a bunny, with over a dozen children.
They entered and pointed their guns at them immediately, but the children stood in front of them. "Don't shoot them.", said a boy.
"What?", asked the sergeant.
"They saved us from the monsters.", said a girl pointing to the dead orc and pig.
After some delay, the sergeant spoke, "Lower your weapons.". He walked to the two women. "I am gunnery-sergeant Jeff Miller. Who are you?"
"I am Zoya and this is Bora.", answered the rabbit woman, "We are the slave auxiliary of the empire of light."
Confused, Jeff asked, "The what?"
Before she could answer, Paterson walked over to Miller, "Sir, I have a message from lieutenant Mark Jefferson. He asks about a report and if we're ready to join them in the attack on Northeast park."
Jeff looked at the two women before turning to his men, "Paterson, tell the lieutenant that we'll join them soon. Johnson, and Shane, take these two into custody. I'll question them more when I get back."
"Where are you going?", asked Bora suddenly.
Jeff turned to her slowly and answered, "We're gonna end this."
End of chapter 2
---
Thank you very much for reading. If you'd like to support me (for some freakin' reason) feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon: patreon.com/SimpleWrites
Sorry for the choppy chapter, I promise better work in the future.
submitted by Sinpleton025 to HFY [link] [comments]
Galdush fields, Meilume region of the Empire
The time has come and the troops are ready. The chosen commander of Imperial forces is Ylyndar Glynra, general of the IV army, commanding twenty-five thousand infantry, ten thousand cavalry, ten thousand archers along with one hundred wyverns, one hundred battle mages and hundreds of siege elements for a total of fifty thousand troops. The vassal forces number forty thousand. Ten thousand dwarves from Nundolar commanded by Bardek Leadmaster and ten thousand from Halboram under Dalmin Bronzering. The Rosians sent twenty thousand in total under the command of Bodin Zorgen of Alston, king Thavok's eldest son. The imperials have also brought an auxiliary force of ten thousand slaves, which include ferral orcs, trolls, ogres, swine, lepians, feelians, leanoids, and welfen.
In total, the invasion force numbered one hundred thousand strong and they were to start the land attack in the Galdush fields. At the same time, the VI fleet of one hundred ships of various sizes gathered in the western waters away from the port city of Lashil. Admiral Lothar Tanros was also tasked with opening a rift and to attack the enemy's shoreline, making the invasion a pincer assault.
"It is time, general.", a captain said proudly.
"Indeed.", Ylandar replied, "I cannot wait to bring the emperor's light to this savage world. Are the mages in place?"
"Yes, general. They are finishing the ritual. It is a pity we cannot open more rifts."
"Any more and the spiritual energy of North Altia will be completely drained. I do not wish to destroy our world along with theirs."
"Understood sir.", at that moment, a large rift opened up. It was thirty steps wide, ten steps tall, and shining in bright blue. All soldiers stared at it with amazement and fright. This was the gateway to the savage land they were warned about, they must remain vigilant. "I shall prepare the first wave."
"Hold. I shall go.", Ylindar said.
"S-Sir? Are you certain?"
"Yes. I will lead the first wave.". With that, he rode to Bardek, Dalmin, and Bodin. "You know the plan. All Rosian troops, half of the dwarves, the entire auxiliary, and ten thousand of my own troops. Once a foothold has been established, a messenger will ride back and inform the rest of the troops to begin the second wave. The navy has most likely begun its attack. We must hurry. For the light!"
With that they marched forward into the rift, unaware of the dangers they will face. All they could do is pray to the spirits.
---
History is not kind. Many bad things happened throughout human history. Wars, plagues, destruction, and death beyond counting. On top of that, humans themselves were never the best of people. It is they who caused all of it to happen and it is also they who keep doing it. History has always described humans as selfish and self-harming, but history is written by the winner. And this time, the good wins.
The great virus that occurred in the third decade ravaged the planet, killing millions of people. But through human genius, a cure was made and the death was stopped. However, it was then that the true culprits were discovered. One of the greatest problems of humanity is overpopulation. We have grown soft and stopped "culling the herd" so that a sensible number can thrive and be strong. A group calling themselves 'True salvation', sought to fix this. Through decades of careful planning and manipulation, they've reached a solution. For mankind to prosper it needs to suffer. So they showed themselves in 2034 and declared that they will do what was necessary to save the Earth. So they set off fires and explosions all throughout the world. Thousands upon thousands of factories and industries were destroyed, the capital and major cities were devastated, planes kept crashing, ships kept sinking, and it was chaos. The death toll was in the millions, even hundreds of millions as every country suffered.
But the salvationist forgot one important thing. These are human beings. By attacking them all they've united them all. Global governments decided they will not stand by idly while their people were being killed for some 'greater good'. In a united effort, after fifteen years, they tracked down and eliminated the salvationists, ending the crisis. But now the bigger problem took the stage. The world was in chaos and it needed fixing. So for the future years, that is exactly what happened. A new generation replaced the old one and with everyone united they not only repaired but also advanced. New technologies were invented, and life became better. Artificial limbs became more common, medicine was more advanced and the military received more than one upgrade so that no future threat can harm the nations.
NATO got more support from South America and Australia, while East Europe and Asia created a new block called Easter Powers Alliance. The UN now strictly enforces laws against drugs and poachers are shot on sight so to protect the wild and plant life. Renewable energy sources are spread across the world and the atmosphere is being healed. Many monuments were built for the victims of the salvationists. It goes to show that no matter how much humanity is battered, it would always rise stronger.
And now? Now it is the year 2070 and things are going just fine.
5th of May, 2070
Lumberton, North Carolina
The Northeast park is always a wonderful place to visit. With playgrounds and baseball fields, it was always cheerful. Right now the Jaguars were playing against the Bulls and hundreds of people gathered to watch. Officers Bradly O'Neil, or just Brad, and Jack Mitchel pulled their police car over to watch the game.
"So who do think is winning this time?", Jack asked.
"My money is on the Bulls.", Brad said, "They're winning right now."
"No one knows man. I have a gut feeling the Jaguars are gonna make a comeback."
In that moment, a Jaguar pitcher threw the ball and the Bull hit it with the bat, sending it out of the ring.
"Hooooo! Another home run by the Bulls!", said the announcer, "If they keep this up they will win it all!"
The Bull ran full circle and when he finished, a tremor shook the ground. Suddenly, a large rectangle of light appeared. It was nearly fifty feet wide and sixteen feet tall. People were confused and everyone tried to wrap their heads around what exactly was happening.
"Brad?", Jack asked, "Did anyone order a light show?"
"At four pm? Unlikely.", Brad said as he grabbed his radio, "Dispatch this is officer O'Neil, we have a situation at the Northeast park. Unclear if it is a threat but I require reinforcements and-"
Out of the light, men started appearing. They were strange to say the least. They wore medieval-like armor and has pink skin. Behind them appeared something that freaked people out and scarred them even more. Things they would only see in fantasy movies. Green-skinned orcs, dwarves, and even huge dragon-like lizards. No one understood how they got here but they understood their purpose as they attacked the players and spectators.
The green-skinned and pig-like monsters killed and ate everyone they could find. The dragons flew in the air and arrows rained down on the people.
Brad took the radio again and shouted, "Threat confirmed! I repeat the threat is confirmed! Send reinforcements and alert the national guard! They're killing everyone! We need-"
A pig-like monster jumped at him but it got blasted away by a shotgun. "Power or speed?", asked Jack who shot the gun.
"Speed. I'll take the smaller ones.", he replied and grabbed the shotgun while Jack took the SMG, "We have to save as many people as we can! Come on!"
---
The attack is a success. Already these pale-skinned savages flee and are killed by the dozens and soon hundreds. This field will serve as a good foothold for the invasion.
Prince Bodin looked over the scenery and thought, 'This doesn't look like a land filled with chaos. Were the visions a lie after all?'
"Prince Bodin.", called general Ylindar, "It is glorious is it not? We will slaughter these savages and take the lands in the name of the light. I need you to send your forces over to the structures to the southwest, I have already dispatched the dwarves and auxillia to the south."
"This place is not like the one explained in the vision."
"That does not matter. You are to gather as many slaves as you can and kill all the soldiers that attack you. We must clear a path for the second wave." Bodin internally cursed but went with the orders and called his men.
"Sir!", called a captain, "There are several savages that are causing problems for us."
"What do you mean?"
"They are hiding behind strange metal carts and it appears they have boomsticks much like the dwarves."
"Send a group of mages with dwarves and crush them."
"Right away sir!". With that, the captain left and Ylindar started setting up the stronghold and preparing the letter for the second wave.
Five mages along with a hundred dwarf warriors and shooters. The two dozen savages hid behind metal carts and fired at the orcs and swine that ran at them. The dwarves took aim and fired but they only killed a couple. The savages fired and the mages tried to create a force shield, but something was wrong. There was no energy in this world and magic didn't work.
"What's the problem?", asked a dwarf.
"I-I don't know. I can't-"
Before he could finish, he fell to the ground with a hole in his head. The dwarves started to fall as well. The warriors put up their shields, but the weapons of the savages tore through them. Eventually, enough orcs and swine pushed them and killed most while taking one prisoner.
---
Some time later
Noble self-service storage
Bodin never liked the empire or the emperor. They killed his grandfather just because they wanted freedom. But right now, he didn't have a choice. Denying a direct imperial order is a death sentence. He needed to make sure his kingdom, as well as the others, by doing their bidding and dirty work.
On his way to the strange structures, he encountered strange things. Metal carts that moved without horses and the wide roads made of flat stones, as well as soldiers with repeating boomsticks. For every one of them he lost dozens, but they couldn't hold on for long. Bodin gave explicate orders not to kill any retreating soldiers or innocent people. They won't become monstrous killers like the elves.
After a while, they reached the structures. Rows of identical buildings locked with metal doors. They opened them one by one and only found different pieces of furniture and sometimes jewelry.
"Take anything of value.", Bodin said, "We have taken enough people captive. After we are done here we will report to general Ylindar. Captain, take the captives back quickly. I fear the men we've faced are but a fraction of their army."
"Yes my lord.", the captain said and left with his troops in a hurry.
"Are you starting to doubt the visions, prince Bodin.", spoke a man next to him, "Because so far I am."
"Viscount Iaw.", replied Bodin, "I know what you mean. These people don't look like the savage barbarians the elves told us about. They look like us."
"While I do agree with you on that, you cannot deny the differences. These structures look so robust, and the roads are completely flat. The boomsticks, and the metal carts, clearly these people possess great magic and machines. I cannot imagine what would happen if the empire got its hands on them."
"Don't even say that. Let's just get these items back to-". His sentence was cut by a loud explosion that came from the other side of the structures. Bits and pieces of armor, weapons, and bodies fell on all sides. The men panicked as more explosions came from all sides.
"They have cannons!", yelled Bodin, "Scatter! Find the shooters!". After he gave his orders the soldiers ran to all sides, but they stopped shortly after noticing something in the air. Enemy wyverns? No. They looked different and were made of metal much like the carriages. Several of them filled the sky and inside were soldiers with aimed cannons who opened fire on the Rosians. The soldiers died by the hundreds and Bodin knew he was in danger.
"We have to get out of here!", yelled Iaw and hurried forward on his horse. Bodin and the others followed but they slowed down as they saw a roadblock of large and bulky metal carriages. Dozens of enemies came out of them and prepared their weapons.
"I shall clear a path for you!", said Iaw and charged at the enemy with his troops. Bodin attempted to stop him but to no avail. The enemies opened fire and Iaw was filled with holes along with his men. They didn't even get close before they were slaughtered. Paralyzed by fear, the remaining Rosian troops did the only sensible thing, they surrendered. Now they can only hope for the enemy to be merciful.
---
'This was supposed to be a slow day.", thought lieutenant Jefferson, 'What the hell did we get ourselves into.'
This was beyond strange. A portal opening up in Northeast park, fantasy, and medieval people coming out of it and attacking people? This wasn't what Mark signed up to fight. But he did sign up to defend the United States from any threat. This one counts.
As he rode in his helicopter he saw the other choppers literally slaughtering the 'enemy'. If you can call people with swords and bows riding on a horse a proper enemy. They were being killed in the thousands and only several hundred were left at the storage facilities.
"Lieutenant, are you ok?", asked a sergeant, "You spaced out."
"I'm fine Thomas. This is just beyond me. But I guess it's not our job to think about it.", he stood up and grabbed the rope, "We're going down!"
They lowered themselves from the helicopter and got into formation. They moved through the roads and shot every enemy that came after them. It wasn't hard, these 'knights' weren't much of a threat as long as they were out of range.
"Cavalry behind us!", yelled Thomas. The platoon got into a firing line and opened fire, cutting down the dozens of horses and 'men' riding them. As they continued forward they arrived at the JLTVs placed to block the enemy's advance.
"Lieutenant Mark Jefferson.", he said as he saluted.
"Sergeant Norman Cole. Sir, you're not gonna believe this."
"We are under attack by Lord of the rings characters in pink. Try me."
"Well, these people speak a different language, unsurprisingly. But when I introduced myself they spoke English."
This did surprise Mark. "English? Are you sure?"
"Yes. There's an accent definitely but it's unmistakable. And that guy with the cape and silver helmet? He's the leader. Prince Bodin of Alston."
After some pondering, Mark answered, "Load them up in the trucks. Separate the more important ones. I need to get in touch with the forces sent to Food lion."
"Yes, sir."
'This keeps getting weirder and weirder.', Mark thought.
---
Earlier
Near Food lion
Zoya was not happy about this. Being forced to fight for these oppressors alongside animals. It was degrading. But she didn't have a choice. It was serve or die. Because of their animal features, lepians and feelians are sent first to scout the area and bring information. But what the others were doing was horrible.
All around she could see the feral orcs butchering people and raid homes, the swine, trolls, and ogres eating people alive, and the dwarves plundering treasures and taking weapons. It was disgusting. The forces did suffer casualties. These people were armed with weapons more powerful than even the dwarves had. The feral beast suffered the most. Even the trolls and ogress fell to being shot enough times. But eventually, they had to run away.
Plunging her dagger into a blue-clothed soldier's back, Zoya let out a tired sigh. "How much longer?", she asked herself.
"As long as it takes.", said a woman behind her.
"Bora. I thought you were killed."
"I was almost. But I lost many of my own. These weapons are deadly. If we dodge one shot ten more appear."
"What's taking you so long, rabbit?", asked the dwarven general Dalmin in a disrespectful attitude, "I thought you lepians were supposed to be expert scouts."
"Don't talk down at us, dwarf.", said Bora.
"Shut it cat! Or I'll grind you into meat and feed you to my hog.", Bora hissed at that, "Now, get going. It won't be long before Bardek arrives and I intend to have more fun.". With that he rode off, leaving Zoya and Bora.
"I'm going to kill him one day.", said Bora.
Zoya looked behind her and saw a group of children running away from a swine and a feral orc. They went inside what looked like a large market. Zoya ran after them and Bora quickly followed. They reached the mark and when they entered it they saw the women and children cowering in a corner as the swine and orc closed in. Zoya rushed at the orc and slit its throat then quickly spun around and kicked the swine, knocking it to the ground. Without wasting time she plunged her dagger into its heart. She walked over to the children and gestured for them to calm down.
"What was that?", Bora asked.
"I'm not letting let innocent people get butchered and eaten by monsters."
"But if the elves find out-"
"They won't. We can-", she stopped midway after her ears twitched. Looking out the window she saw and hear explosions. That must be this world's army. Dalmin rode on his hog to lead a charge against their metal carriages but was cut down by the enemy's weapons.
Zoya and Bora were scared. Their people were dying and soon they will follow. But just then, a little girl walked to her side and pulled her hand. "Don't worry.", she spoke in the imperial tongue, which surprised Zoya, "We'll tell them you saved us."
---
"This is pretty insane isn't it sir?", asked a soldier.
"It sure is Paterson.", said the sergeant, "Let's just kill everything that can't talk first and worry about the rest later."
"Rodger.". They exited the Bradley and got to work, opening fire on what looked like dwarves and orcs. The Bradley itself focused on the larger targets while the soldiers moved in. House by house and street by street they moved in. The dwarves fired their musket-like weapons but they only managed to land a few lucky shots. The new M16A5 assault rifle with 6.8mm bullets tore through their armor and shields.
An ogre started charging from the back lines, swinging his large stone on a chain. "Paterson! Fire your grenade launcher!", ordered the sergeant. Paterson fired and upon impact the grenade exploded, leaving a gaping hole in the ogre's chest and bursting its organs all around. The battle continued and the stubborn dwarves fought as well as the ugly monsters. The only ones that surrendered were the animalistic 'people'.
As the soldiers progressed they saw horrid things. People were being eaten and ripped apart by the monsters as they screamed and begged for their lives. Homes burned and vehicles crushed. This won't go unanswered. "Kill them all!", yelled the sergeant, and the soldiers happily obliged.
With rifles, grenades, and machine guns they slaughtered the monsters. Trolls and ogres were blown to pieces, orcs, and swine riddled with holes like Swiss cheese. Even the stubborn dwarves were shown little mercy. The sergeant continued with his men to Food lion where he spotted two animal-like people, one looked like a cat and the other like a bunny, with over a dozen children.
They entered and pointed their guns at them immediately, but the children stood in front of them. "Don't shoot them.", said a boy.
"What?", asked the sergeant.
"They saved us from the monsters.", said a girl pointing to the dead orc and pig.
After some delay, the sergeant spoke, "Lower your weapons.". He walked to the two women. "I am gunnery-sergeant Jeff Miller. Who are you?"
"I am Zoya and this is Bora.", answered the rabbit woman, "We are the slave auxiliary of the empire of light."
Confused, Jeff asked, "The what?"
Before she could answer, Paterson walked over to Miller, "Sir, I have a message from lieutenant Mark Jefferson. He asks about a report and if we're ready to join them in the attack on Northeast park."
Jeff looked at the two women before turning to his men, "Paterson, tell the lieutenant that we'll join them soon. Johnson, and Shane, take these two into custody. I'll question them more when I get back."
"Where are you going?", asked Bora suddenly.
Jeff turned to her slowly and answered, "We're gonna end this."
End of chapter 2
---
Thank you very much for reading. If you'd like to support me (for some freakin' reason) feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon: patreon.com/SimpleWrites
Sorry for the choppy chapter, I promise better work in the future.
2023.03.25 10:40 Sinpleton025 [Rifts of War] - Chapter 2
Three moon cycles later
Galdush fields, Meilume region of the Empire
The time has come and the troops are ready. The chosen commander of Imperial forces is Ylyndar Glynra, general of the IV army, commanding twenty-five thousand infantry, ten thousand cavalry, ten thousand archers along with one hundred wyverns, one hundred battle mages and hundreds of siege elements for a total of fifty thousand troops. The vassal forces number forty thousand. Ten thousand dwarves from Nundolar commanded by Bardek Leadmaster and ten thousand from Halboram under Dalmin Bronzering. The Rosians sent twenty thousand in total under the command of Bodin Zorgen of Alston, king Thavok's eldest son. The imperials have also brought an auxiliary force of ten thousand slaves, which include ferral orcs, trolls, ogres, swine, lepians, feelians, leanoids, and welfen.
In total, the invasion force numbered one hundred thousand strong and they were to start the land attack in the Galdush fields. At the same time, the VI fleet of one hundred ships of various sizes gathered in the western waters away from the port city of Lashil. Admiral Lothar Tanros was also tasked with opening a rift and to attack the enemy's shoreline, making the invasion a pincer assault.
"It is time, general.", a captain said proudly.
"Indeed.", Ylandar replied, "I cannot wait to bring the emperor's light to this savage world. Are the mages in place?"
"Yes, general. They are finishing the ritual. It is a pity we cannot open more rifts."
"Any more and the spiritual energy of North Altia will be completely drained. I do not wish to destroy our world along with theirs."
"Understood sir.", at that moment, a large rift opened up. It was thirty steps wide, ten steps tall, and shining in bright blue. All soldiers stared at it with amazement and fright. This was the gateway to the savage land they were warned about, they must remain vigilant. "I shall prepare the first wave."
"Hold. I shall go.", Ylindar said.
"S-Sir? Are you certain?"
"Yes. I will lead the first wave.". With that, he rode to Bardek, Dalmin, and Bodin. "You know the plan. All Rosian troops, half of the dwarves, the entire auxiliary, and ten thousand of my own troops. Once a foothold has been established, a messenger will ride back and inform the rest of the troops to begin the second wave. The navy has most likely begun its attack. We must hurry. For the light!"
With that they marched forward into the rift, unaware of the dangers they will face. All they could do is pray to the spirits.
---
History is not kind. Many bad things happened throughout human history. Wars, plagues, destruction, and death beyond counting. On top of that, humans themselves were never the best of people. It is they who caused all of it to happen and it is also they who keep doing it. History has always described humans as selfish and self-harming, but history is written by the winner. And this time, the good wins.
The great virus that occurred in the third decade ravaged the planet, killing millions of people. But through human genius, a cure was made and the death was stopped. However, it was then that the true culprits were discovered. One of the greatest problems of humanity is overpopulation. We have grown soft and stopped "culling the herd" so that a sensible number can thrive and be strong. A group calling themselves 'True salvation', sought to fix this. Through decades of careful planning and manipulation, they've reached a solution. For mankind to prosper it needs to suffer. So they showed themselves in 2034 and declared that they will do what was necessary to save the Earth. So they set off fires and explosions all throughout the world. Thousands upon thousands of factories and industries were destroyed, the capital and major cities were devastated, planes kept crashing, ships kept sinking, and it was chaos. The death toll was in the millions, even hundreds of millions as every country suffered.
But the salvationist forgot one important thing. These are human beings. By attacking them all they've united them all. Global governments decided they will not stand by idly while their people were being killed for some 'greater good'. In a united effort, after fifteen years, they tracked down and eliminated the salvationists, ending the crisis. But now the bigger problem took the stage. The world was in chaos and it needed fixing. So for the future years, that is exactly what happened. A new generation replaced the old one and with everyone united they not only repaired but also advanced. New technologies were invented, and life became better. Artificial limbs became more common, medicine was more advanced and the military received more than one upgrade so that no future threat can harm the nations.
NATO got more support from South America and Australia, while East Europe and Asia created a new block called Easter Powers Alliance. The UN now strictly enforces laws against drugs and poachers are shot on sight so to protect the wild and plant life. Renewable energy sources are spread across the world and the atmosphere is being healed. Many monuments were built for the victims of the salvationists. It goes to show that no matter how much humanity is battered, it would always rise stronger.
And now? Now it is the year 2070 and things are going just fine.
5th of May, 2070
Lumberton, North Carolina
The Northeast park is always a wonderful place to visit. With playgrounds and baseball fields, it was always cheerful. Right now the Jaguars were playing against the Bulls and hundreds of people gathered to watch. Officers Bradly O'Neil, or just Brad, and Jack Mitchel pulled their police car over to watch the game.
"So who do think is winning this time?", Jack asked.
"My money is on the Bulls.", Brad said, "They're winning right now."
"No one knows man. I have a gut feeling the Jaguars are gonna make a comeback."
In that moment, a Jaguar pitcher threw the ball and the Bull hit it with the bat, sending it out of the ring.
"Hooooo! Another home run by the Bulls!", said the announcer, "If they keep this up they will win it all!"
The Bull ran full circle and when he finished, a tremor shook the ground. Suddenly, a large rectangle of light appeared. It was nearly fifty feet wide and sixteen feet tall. People were confused and everyone tried to wrap their heads around what exactly was happening.
"Brad?", Jack asked, "Did anyone order a light show?"
"At four pm? Unlikely.", Brad said as he grabbed his radio, "Dispatch this is officer O'Neil, we have a situation at the Northeast park. Unclear if it is a threat but I require reinforcements and-"
Out of the light, men started appearing. They were strange to say the least. They wore medieval-like armor and has pink skin. Behind them appeared something that freaked people out and scarred them even more. Things they would only see in fantasy movies. Green-skinned orcs, dwarves, and even huge dragon-like lizards. No one understood how they got here but they understood their purpose as they attacked the players and spectators.
The green-skinned and pig-like monsters killed and ate everyone they could find. The dragons flew in the air and arrows rained down on the people.
Brad took the radio again and shouted, "Threat confirmed! I repeat the threat is confirmed! Send reinforcements and alert the national guard! They're killing everyone! We need-"
A pig-like monster jumped at him but it got blasted away by a shotgun. "Power or speed?", asked Jack who shot the gun.
"Speed. I'll take the smaller ones.", he replied and grabbed the shotgun while Jack took the SMG, "We have to save as many people as we can! Come on!"
---
The attack is a success. Already these pale-skinned savages flee and are killed by the dozens and soon hundreds. This field will serve as a good foothold for the invasion.
Prince Bodin looked over the scenery and thought, 'This doesn't look like a land filled with chaos. Were the visions a lie after all?'
"Prince Bodin.", called general Ylindar, "It is glorious is it not? We will slaughter these savages and take the lands in the name of the light. I need you to send your forces over to the structures to the southwest, I have already dispatched the dwarves and auxillia to the south."
"This place is not like the one explained in the vision."
"That does not matter. You are to gather as many slaves as you can and kill all the soldiers that attack you. We must clear a path for the second wave." Bodin internally cursed but went with the orders and called his men.
"Sir!", called a captain, "There are several savages that are causing problems for us."
"What do you mean?"
"They are hiding behind strange metal carts and it appears they have boomsticks much like the dwarves."
"Send a group of mages with dwarves and crush them."
"Right away sir!". With that, the captain left and Ylindar started setting up the stronghold and preparing the letter for the second wave.
Five mages along with a hundred dwarf warriors and shooters. The two dozen savages hid behind metal carts and fired at the orcs and swine that ran at them. The dwarves took aim and fired but they only killed a couple. The savages fired and the mages tried to create a force shield, but something was wrong. There was no energy in this world and magic didn't work.
"What's the problem?", asked a dwarf.
"I-I don't know. I can't-"
Before he could finish, he fell to the ground with a hole in his head. The dwarves started to fall as well. The warriors put up their shields, but the weapons of the savages tore through them. Eventually, enough orcs and swine pushed them and killed most while taking one prisoner.
---
Some time later
Noble self-service storage
Bodin never liked the empire or the emperor. They killed his grandfather just because they wanted freedom. But right now, he didn't have a choice. Denying a direct imperial order is a death sentence. He needed to make sure his kingdom, as well as the others, by doing their bidding and dirty work.
On his way to the strange structures, he encountered strange things. Metal carts that moved without horses and the wide roads made of flat stones, as well as soldiers with repeating boomsticks. For every one of them he lost dozens, but they couldn't hold on for long. Bodin gave explicate orders not to kill any retreating soldiers or innocent people. They won't become monstrous killers like the elves.
After a while, they reached the structures. Rows of identical buildings locked with metal doors. They opened them one by one and only found different pieces of furniture and sometimes jewelry.
"Take anything of value.", Bodin said, "We have taken enough people captive. After we are done here we will report to general Ylindar. Captain, take the captives back quickly. I fear the men we've faced are but a fraction of their army."
"Yes my lord.", the captain said and left with his troops in a hurry.
"Are you starting to doubt the visions, prince Bodin.", spoke a man next to him, "Because so far I am."
"Viscount Iaw.", replied Bodin, "I know what you mean. These people don't look like the savage barbarians the elves told us about. They look like us."
"While I do agree with you on that, you cannot deny the differences. These structures look so robust, and the roads are completely flat. The boomsticks, and the metal carts, clearly these people possess great magic and machines. I cannot imagine what would happen if the empire got its hands on them."
"Don't even say that. Let's just get these items back to-". His sentence was cut by a loud explosion that came from the other side of the structures. Bits and pieces of armor, weapons, and bodies fell on all sides. The men panicked as more explosions came from all sides.
"They have cannons!", yelled Bodin, "Scatter! Find the shooters!". After he gave his orders the soldiers ran to all sides, but they stopped shortly after noticing something in the air. Enemy wyverns? No. They looked different and were made of metal much like the carriages. Several of them filled the sky and inside were soldiers with aimed cannons who opened fire on the Rosians. The soldiers died by the hundreds and Bodin knew he was in danger.
"We have to get out of here!", yelled Iaw and hurried forward on his horse. Bodin and the others followed but they slowed down as they saw a roadblock of large and bulky metal carriages. Dozens of enemies came out of them and prepared their weapons.
"I shall clear a path for you!", said Iaw and charged at the enemy with his troops. Bodin attempted to stop him but to no avail. The enemies opened fire and Iaw was filled with holes along with his men. They didn't even get close before they were slaughtered. Paralyzed by fear, the remaining Rosian troops did the only sensible thing, they surrendered. Now they can only hope for the enemy to be merciful.
---
'This was supposed to be a slow day.", thought lieutenant Jefferson, 'What the hell did we get ourselves into.'
This was beyond strange. A portal opening up in Northeast park, fantasy, and medieval people coming out of it and attacking people? This wasn't what Mark signed up to fight. But he did sign up to defend the United States from any threat. This one counts.
As he rode in his helicopter he saw the other choppers literally slaughtering the 'enemy'. If you can call people with swords and bows riding on a horse a proper enemy. They were being killed in the thousands and only several hundred were left at the storage facilities.
"Lieutenant, are you ok?", asked a sergeant, "You spaced out."
"I'm fine Thomas. This is just beyond me. But I guess it's not our job to think about it.", he stood up and grabbed the rope, "We're going down!"
They lowered themselves from the helicopter and got into formation. They moved through the roads and shot every enemy that came after them. It wasn't hard, these 'knights' weren't much of a threat as long as they were out of range.
"Cavalry behind us!", yelled Thomas. The platoon got into a firing line and opened fire, cutting down the dozens of horses and 'men' riding them. As they continued forward they arrived at the JLTVs placed to block the enemy's advance.
"Lieutenant Mark Jefferson.", he said as he saluted.
"Sergeant Norman Cole. Sir, you're not gonna believe this."
"We are under attack by Lord of the rings characters in pink. Try me."
"Well, these people speak a different language, unsurprisingly. But when I introduced myself they spoke English."
This did surprise Mark. "English? Are you sure?"
"Yes. There's an accent definitely but it's unmistakable. And that guy with the cape and silver helmet? He's the leader. Prince Bodin of Alston."
After some pondering, Mark answered, "Load them up in the trucks. Separate the more important ones. I need to get in touch with the forces sent to Food lion."
"Yes, sir."
'This keeps getting weirder and weirder.', Mark thought.
---
Earlier
Near Food lion
Zoya was not happy about this. Being forced to fight for these oppressors alongside animals. It was degrading. But she didn't have a choice. It was serve or die. Because of their animal features, lepians and feelians are sent first to scout the area and bring information. But what the others were doing was horrible.
All around she could see the feral orcs butchering people and raid homes, the swine, trolls, and ogres eating people alive, and the dwarves plundering treasures and taking weapons. It was disgusting. The forces did suffer casualties. These people were armed with weapons more powerful than even the dwarves had. The feral beast suffered the most. Even the trolls and ogress fell to being shot enough times. But eventually, they had to run away.
Plunging her dagger into a blue-clothed soldier's back, Zoya let out a tired sigh. "How much longer?", she asked herself.
"As long as it takes.", said a woman behind her.
"Bora. I thought you were killed."
"I was almost. But I lost many of my own. These weapons are deadly. If we dodge one shot ten more appear."
"What's taking you so long, rabbit?", asked the dwarven general Dalmin in a disrespectful attitude, "I thought you lepians were supposed to be expert scouts."
"Don't talk down at us, dwarf.", said Bora.
"Shut it cat! Or I'll grind you into meat and feed you to my hog.", Bora hissed at that, "Now, get going. It won't be long before Bardek arrives and I intend to have more fun.". With that he rode off, leaving Zoya and Bora.
"I'm going to kill him one day.", said Bora.
Zoya looked behind her and saw a group of children running away from a swine and a feral orc. They went inside what looked like a large market. Zoya ran after them and Bora quickly followed. They reached the mark and when they entered it they saw the women and children cowering in a corner as the swine and orc closed in. Zoya rushed at the orc and slit its throat then quickly spun around and kicked the swine, knocking it to the ground. Without wasting time she plunged her dagger into its heart. She walked over to the children and gestured for them to calm down.
"What was that?", Bora asked.
"I'm not letting let innocent people get butchered and eaten by monsters."
"But if the elves find out-"
"They won't. We can-", she stopped midway after her ears twitched. Looking out the window she saw and hear explosions. That must be this world's army. Dalmin rode on his hog to lead a charge against their metal carriages but was cut down by the enemy's weapons.
Zoya and Bora were scared. Their people were dying and soon they will follow. But just then, a little girl walked to her side and pulled her hand. "Don't worry.", she spoke in the imperial tongue, which surprised Zoya, "We'll tell them you saved us."
---
"This is pretty insane isn't it sir?", asked a soldier.
"It sure is Paterson.", said the sergeant, "Let's just kill everything that can't talk first and worry about the rest later."
"Rodger.". They exited the Bradley and got to work, opening fire on what looked like dwarves and orcs. The Bradley itself focused on the larger targets while the soldiers moved in. House by house and street by street they moved in. The dwarves fired their musket-like weapons but they only managed to land a few lucky shots. The new M16A5 assault rifle with 6.8mm bullets tore through their armor and shields.
An ogre started charging from the back lines, swinging his large stone on a chain. "Paterson! Fire your grenade launcher!", ordered the sergeant. Paterson fired and upon impact the grenade exploded, leaving a gaping hole in the ogre's chest and bursting its organs all around. The battle continued and the stubborn dwarves fought as well as the ugly monsters. The only ones that surrendered were the animalistic 'people'.
As the soldiers progressed they saw horrid things. People were being eaten and ripped apart by the monsters as they screamed and begged for their lives. Homes burned and vehicles crushed. This won't go unanswered. "Kill them all!", yelled the sergeant, and the soldiers happily obliged.
With rifles, grenades, and machine guns they slaughtered the monsters. Trolls and ogres were blown to pieces, orcs, and swine riddled with holes like Swiss cheese. Even the stubborn dwarves were shown little mercy. The sergeant continued with his men to Food lion where he spotted two animal-like people, one looked like a cat and the other like a bunny, with over a dozen children.
They entered and pointed their guns at them immediately, but the children stood in front of them. "Don't shoot them.", said a boy.
"What?", asked the sergeant.
"They saved us from the monsters.", said a girl pointing to the dead orc and pig.
After some delay, the sergeant spoke, "Lower your weapons.". He walked to the two women. "I am gunnery-sergeant Jeff Miller. Who are you?"
"I am Zoya and this is Bora.", answered the rabbit woman, "We are the slave auxiliary of the empire of light."
Confused, Jeff asked, "The what?"
Before she could answer, Paterson walked over to Miller, "Sir, I have a message from lieutenant Mark Jefferson. He asks about a report and if we're ready to join them in the attack on Northeast park."
Jeff looked at the two women before turning to his men, "Paterson, tell the lieutenant that we'll join them soon. Johnson, and Shane, take these two into custody. I'll question them more when I get back."
"Where are you going?", asked Bora suddenly.
Jeff turned to her slowly and answered, "We're gonna end this."
End of chapter 2
---
Thank you very much for reading. If you'd like to support me (for some freakin' reason) feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon (DM me for the link, please).
Sorry for the choppy chapter, I promise better work in the future.
submitted by Sinpleton025 to redditserials [link] [comments]
Galdush fields, Meilume region of the Empire
The time has come and the troops are ready. The chosen commander of Imperial forces is Ylyndar Glynra, general of the IV army, commanding twenty-five thousand infantry, ten thousand cavalry, ten thousand archers along with one hundred wyverns, one hundred battle mages and hundreds of siege elements for a total of fifty thousand troops. The vassal forces number forty thousand. Ten thousand dwarves from Nundolar commanded by Bardek Leadmaster and ten thousand from Halboram under Dalmin Bronzering. The Rosians sent twenty thousand in total under the command of Bodin Zorgen of Alston, king Thavok's eldest son. The imperials have also brought an auxiliary force of ten thousand slaves, which include ferral orcs, trolls, ogres, swine, lepians, feelians, leanoids, and welfen.
In total, the invasion force numbered one hundred thousand strong and they were to start the land attack in the Galdush fields. At the same time, the VI fleet of one hundred ships of various sizes gathered in the western waters away from the port city of Lashil. Admiral Lothar Tanros was also tasked with opening a rift and to attack the enemy's shoreline, making the invasion a pincer assault.
"It is time, general.", a captain said proudly.
"Indeed.", Ylandar replied, "I cannot wait to bring the emperor's light to this savage world. Are the mages in place?"
"Yes, general. They are finishing the ritual. It is a pity we cannot open more rifts."
"Any more and the spiritual energy of North Altia will be completely drained. I do not wish to destroy our world along with theirs."
"Understood sir.", at that moment, a large rift opened up. It was thirty steps wide, ten steps tall, and shining in bright blue. All soldiers stared at it with amazement and fright. This was the gateway to the savage land they were warned about, they must remain vigilant. "I shall prepare the first wave."
"Hold. I shall go.", Ylindar said.
"S-Sir? Are you certain?"
"Yes. I will lead the first wave.". With that, he rode to Bardek, Dalmin, and Bodin. "You know the plan. All Rosian troops, half of the dwarves, the entire auxiliary, and ten thousand of my own troops. Once a foothold has been established, a messenger will ride back and inform the rest of the troops to begin the second wave. The navy has most likely begun its attack. We must hurry. For the light!"
With that they marched forward into the rift, unaware of the dangers they will face. All they could do is pray to the spirits.
---
History is not kind. Many bad things happened throughout human history. Wars, plagues, destruction, and death beyond counting. On top of that, humans themselves were never the best of people. It is they who caused all of it to happen and it is also they who keep doing it. History has always described humans as selfish and self-harming, but history is written by the winner. And this time, the good wins.
The great virus that occurred in the third decade ravaged the planet, killing millions of people. But through human genius, a cure was made and the death was stopped. However, it was then that the true culprits were discovered. One of the greatest problems of humanity is overpopulation. We have grown soft and stopped "culling the herd" so that a sensible number can thrive and be strong. A group calling themselves 'True salvation', sought to fix this. Through decades of careful planning and manipulation, they've reached a solution. For mankind to prosper it needs to suffer. So they showed themselves in 2034 and declared that they will do what was necessary to save the Earth. So they set off fires and explosions all throughout the world. Thousands upon thousands of factories and industries were destroyed, the capital and major cities were devastated, planes kept crashing, ships kept sinking, and it was chaos. The death toll was in the millions, even hundreds of millions as every country suffered.
But the salvationist forgot one important thing. These are human beings. By attacking them all they've united them all. Global governments decided they will not stand by idly while their people were being killed for some 'greater good'. In a united effort, after fifteen years, they tracked down and eliminated the salvationists, ending the crisis. But now the bigger problem took the stage. The world was in chaos and it needed fixing. So for the future years, that is exactly what happened. A new generation replaced the old one and with everyone united they not only repaired but also advanced. New technologies were invented, and life became better. Artificial limbs became more common, medicine was more advanced and the military received more than one upgrade so that no future threat can harm the nations.
NATO got more support from South America and Australia, while East Europe and Asia created a new block called Easter Powers Alliance. The UN now strictly enforces laws against drugs and poachers are shot on sight so to protect the wild and plant life. Renewable energy sources are spread across the world and the atmosphere is being healed. Many monuments were built for the victims of the salvationists. It goes to show that no matter how much humanity is battered, it would always rise stronger.
And now? Now it is the year 2070 and things are going just fine.
5th of May, 2070
Lumberton, North Carolina
The Northeast park is always a wonderful place to visit. With playgrounds and baseball fields, it was always cheerful. Right now the Jaguars were playing against the Bulls and hundreds of people gathered to watch. Officers Bradly O'Neil, or just Brad, and Jack Mitchel pulled their police car over to watch the game.
"So who do think is winning this time?", Jack asked.
"My money is on the Bulls.", Brad said, "They're winning right now."
"No one knows man. I have a gut feeling the Jaguars are gonna make a comeback."
In that moment, a Jaguar pitcher threw the ball and the Bull hit it with the bat, sending it out of the ring.
"Hooooo! Another home run by the Bulls!", said the announcer, "If they keep this up they will win it all!"
The Bull ran full circle and when he finished, a tremor shook the ground. Suddenly, a large rectangle of light appeared. It was nearly fifty feet wide and sixteen feet tall. People were confused and everyone tried to wrap their heads around what exactly was happening.
"Brad?", Jack asked, "Did anyone order a light show?"
"At four pm? Unlikely.", Brad said as he grabbed his radio, "Dispatch this is officer O'Neil, we have a situation at the Northeast park. Unclear if it is a threat but I require reinforcements and-"
Out of the light, men started appearing. They were strange to say the least. They wore medieval-like armor and has pink skin. Behind them appeared something that freaked people out and scarred them even more. Things they would only see in fantasy movies. Green-skinned orcs, dwarves, and even huge dragon-like lizards. No one understood how they got here but they understood their purpose as they attacked the players and spectators.
The green-skinned and pig-like monsters killed and ate everyone they could find. The dragons flew in the air and arrows rained down on the people.
Brad took the radio again and shouted, "Threat confirmed! I repeat the threat is confirmed! Send reinforcements and alert the national guard! They're killing everyone! We need-"
A pig-like monster jumped at him but it got blasted away by a shotgun. "Power or speed?", asked Jack who shot the gun.
"Speed. I'll take the smaller ones.", he replied and grabbed the shotgun while Jack took the SMG, "We have to save as many people as we can! Come on!"
---
The attack is a success. Already these pale-skinned savages flee and are killed by the dozens and soon hundreds. This field will serve as a good foothold for the invasion.
Prince Bodin looked over the scenery and thought, 'This doesn't look like a land filled with chaos. Were the visions a lie after all?'
"Prince Bodin.", called general Ylindar, "It is glorious is it not? We will slaughter these savages and take the lands in the name of the light. I need you to send your forces over to the structures to the southwest, I have already dispatched the dwarves and auxillia to the south."
"This place is not like the one explained in the vision."
"That does not matter. You are to gather as many slaves as you can and kill all the soldiers that attack you. We must clear a path for the second wave." Bodin internally cursed but went with the orders and called his men.
"Sir!", called a captain, "There are several savages that are causing problems for us."
"What do you mean?"
"They are hiding behind strange metal carts and it appears they have boomsticks much like the dwarves."
"Send a group of mages with dwarves and crush them."
"Right away sir!". With that, the captain left and Ylindar started setting up the stronghold and preparing the letter for the second wave.
Five mages along with a hundred dwarf warriors and shooters. The two dozen savages hid behind metal carts and fired at the orcs and swine that ran at them. The dwarves took aim and fired but they only killed a couple. The savages fired and the mages tried to create a force shield, but something was wrong. There was no energy in this world and magic didn't work.
"What's the problem?", asked a dwarf.
"I-I don't know. I can't-"
Before he could finish, he fell to the ground with a hole in his head. The dwarves started to fall as well. The warriors put up their shields, but the weapons of the savages tore through them. Eventually, enough orcs and swine pushed them and killed most while taking one prisoner.
---
Some time later
Noble self-service storage
Bodin never liked the empire or the emperor. They killed his grandfather just because they wanted freedom. But right now, he didn't have a choice. Denying a direct imperial order is a death sentence. He needed to make sure his kingdom, as well as the others, by doing their bidding and dirty work.
On his way to the strange structures, he encountered strange things. Metal carts that moved without horses and the wide roads made of flat stones, as well as soldiers with repeating boomsticks. For every one of them he lost dozens, but they couldn't hold on for long. Bodin gave explicate orders not to kill any retreating soldiers or innocent people. They won't become monstrous killers like the elves.
After a while, they reached the structures. Rows of identical buildings locked with metal doors. They opened them one by one and only found different pieces of furniture and sometimes jewelry.
"Take anything of value.", Bodin said, "We have taken enough people captive. After we are done here we will report to general Ylindar. Captain, take the captives back quickly. I fear the men we've faced are but a fraction of their army."
"Yes my lord.", the captain said and left with his troops in a hurry.
"Are you starting to doubt the visions, prince Bodin.", spoke a man next to him, "Because so far I am."
"Viscount Iaw.", replied Bodin, "I know what you mean. These people don't look like the savage barbarians the elves told us about. They look like us."
"While I do agree with you on that, you cannot deny the differences. These structures look so robust, and the roads are completely flat. The boomsticks, and the metal carts, clearly these people possess great magic and machines. I cannot imagine what would happen if the empire got its hands on them."
"Don't even say that. Let's just get these items back to-". His sentence was cut by a loud explosion that came from the other side of the structures. Bits and pieces of armor, weapons, and bodies fell on all sides. The men panicked as more explosions came from all sides.
"They have cannons!", yelled Bodin, "Scatter! Find the shooters!". After he gave his orders the soldiers ran to all sides, but they stopped shortly after noticing something in the air. Enemy wyverns? No. They looked different and were made of metal much like the carriages. Several of them filled the sky and inside were soldiers with aimed cannons who opened fire on the Rosians. The soldiers died by the hundreds and Bodin knew he was in danger.
"We have to get out of here!", yelled Iaw and hurried forward on his horse. Bodin and the others followed but they slowed down as they saw a roadblock of large and bulky metal carriages. Dozens of enemies came out of them and prepared their weapons.
"I shall clear a path for you!", said Iaw and charged at the enemy with his troops. Bodin attempted to stop him but to no avail. The enemies opened fire and Iaw was filled with holes along with his men. They didn't even get close before they were slaughtered. Paralyzed by fear, the remaining Rosian troops did the only sensible thing, they surrendered. Now they can only hope for the enemy to be merciful.
---
'This was supposed to be a slow day.", thought lieutenant Jefferson, 'What the hell did we get ourselves into.'
This was beyond strange. A portal opening up in Northeast park, fantasy, and medieval people coming out of it and attacking people? This wasn't what Mark signed up to fight. But he did sign up to defend the United States from any threat. This one counts.
As he rode in his helicopter he saw the other choppers literally slaughtering the 'enemy'. If you can call people with swords and bows riding on a horse a proper enemy. They were being killed in the thousands and only several hundred were left at the storage facilities.
"Lieutenant, are you ok?", asked a sergeant, "You spaced out."
"I'm fine Thomas. This is just beyond me. But I guess it's not our job to think about it.", he stood up and grabbed the rope, "We're going down!"
They lowered themselves from the helicopter and got into formation. They moved through the roads and shot every enemy that came after them. It wasn't hard, these 'knights' weren't much of a threat as long as they were out of range.
"Cavalry behind us!", yelled Thomas. The platoon got into a firing line and opened fire, cutting down the dozens of horses and 'men' riding them. As they continued forward they arrived at the JLTVs placed to block the enemy's advance.
"Lieutenant Mark Jefferson.", he said as he saluted.
"Sergeant Norman Cole. Sir, you're not gonna believe this."
"We are under attack by Lord of the rings characters in pink. Try me."
"Well, these people speak a different language, unsurprisingly. But when I introduced myself they spoke English."
This did surprise Mark. "English? Are you sure?"
"Yes. There's an accent definitely but it's unmistakable. And that guy with the cape and silver helmet? He's the leader. Prince Bodin of Alston."
After some pondering, Mark answered, "Load them up in the trucks. Separate the more important ones. I need to get in touch with the forces sent to Food lion."
"Yes, sir."
'This keeps getting weirder and weirder.', Mark thought.
---
Earlier
Near Food lion
Zoya was not happy about this. Being forced to fight for these oppressors alongside animals. It was degrading. But she didn't have a choice. It was serve or die. Because of their animal features, lepians and feelians are sent first to scout the area and bring information. But what the others were doing was horrible.
All around she could see the feral orcs butchering people and raid homes, the swine, trolls, and ogres eating people alive, and the dwarves plundering treasures and taking weapons. It was disgusting. The forces did suffer casualties. These people were armed with weapons more powerful than even the dwarves had. The feral beast suffered the most. Even the trolls and ogress fell to being shot enough times. But eventually, they had to run away.
Plunging her dagger into a blue-clothed soldier's back, Zoya let out a tired sigh. "How much longer?", she asked herself.
"As long as it takes.", said a woman behind her.
"Bora. I thought you were killed."
"I was almost. But I lost many of my own. These weapons are deadly. If we dodge one shot ten more appear."
"What's taking you so long, rabbit?", asked the dwarven general Dalmin in a disrespectful attitude, "I thought you lepians were supposed to be expert scouts."
"Don't talk down at us, dwarf.", said Bora.
"Shut it cat! Or I'll grind you into meat and feed you to my hog.", Bora hissed at that, "Now, get going. It won't be long before Bardek arrives and I intend to have more fun.". With that he rode off, leaving Zoya and Bora.
"I'm going to kill him one day.", said Bora.
Zoya looked behind her and saw a group of children running away from a swine and a feral orc. They went inside what looked like a large market. Zoya ran after them and Bora quickly followed. They reached the mark and when they entered it they saw the women and children cowering in a corner as the swine and orc closed in. Zoya rushed at the orc and slit its throat then quickly spun around and kicked the swine, knocking it to the ground. Without wasting time she plunged her dagger into its heart. She walked over to the children and gestured for them to calm down.
"What was that?", Bora asked.
"I'm not letting let innocent people get butchered and eaten by monsters."
"But if the elves find out-"
"They won't. We can-", she stopped midway after her ears twitched. Looking out the window she saw and hear explosions. That must be this world's army. Dalmin rode on his hog to lead a charge against their metal carriages but was cut down by the enemy's weapons.
Zoya and Bora were scared. Their people were dying and soon they will follow. But just then, a little girl walked to her side and pulled her hand. "Don't worry.", she spoke in the imperial tongue, which surprised Zoya, "We'll tell them you saved us."
---
"This is pretty insane isn't it sir?", asked a soldier.
"It sure is Paterson.", said the sergeant, "Let's just kill everything that can't talk first and worry about the rest later."
"Rodger.". They exited the Bradley and got to work, opening fire on what looked like dwarves and orcs. The Bradley itself focused on the larger targets while the soldiers moved in. House by house and street by street they moved in. The dwarves fired their musket-like weapons but they only managed to land a few lucky shots. The new M16A5 assault rifle with 6.8mm bullets tore through their armor and shields.
An ogre started charging from the back lines, swinging his large stone on a chain. "Paterson! Fire your grenade launcher!", ordered the sergeant. Paterson fired and upon impact the grenade exploded, leaving a gaping hole in the ogre's chest and bursting its organs all around. The battle continued and the stubborn dwarves fought as well as the ugly monsters. The only ones that surrendered were the animalistic 'people'.
As the soldiers progressed they saw horrid things. People were being eaten and ripped apart by the monsters as they screamed and begged for their lives. Homes burned and vehicles crushed. This won't go unanswered. "Kill them all!", yelled the sergeant, and the soldiers happily obliged.
With rifles, grenades, and machine guns they slaughtered the monsters. Trolls and ogres were blown to pieces, orcs, and swine riddled with holes like Swiss cheese. Even the stubborn dwarves were shown little mercy. The sergeant continued with his men to Food lion where he spotted two animal-like people, one looked like a cat and the other like a bunny, with over a dozen children.
They entered and pointed their guns at them immediately, but the children stood in front of them. "Don't shoot them.", said a boy.
"What?", asked the sergeant.
"They saved us from the monsters.", said a girl pointing to the dead orc and pig.
After some delay, the sergeant spoke, "Lower your weapons.". He walked to the two women. "I am gunnery-sergeant Jeff Miller. Who are you?"
"I am Zoya and this is Bora.", answered the rabbit woman, "We are the slave auxiliary of the empire of light."
Confused, Jeff asked, "The what?"
Before she could answer, Paterson walked over to Miller, "Sir, I have a message from lieutenant Mark Jefferson. He asks about a report and if we're ready to join them in the attack on Northeast park."
Jeff looked at the two women before turning to his men, "Paterson, tell the lieutenant that we'll join them soon. Johnson, and Shane, take these two into custody. I'll question them more when I get back."
"Where are you going?", asked Bora suddenly.
Jeff turned to her slowly and answered, "We're gonna end this."
End of chapter 2
---
Thank you very much for reading. If you'd like to support me (for some freakin' reason) feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon (DM me for the link, please).
Sorry for the choppy chapter, I promise better work in the future.
2023.03.25 09:48 Moses_Horwitz Washington Superior Court judge rules an end for Camp Hope
(The Center Square) – A superior court judge has come down on the side of the City of Spokane in a recent ruling about the city’s most famous homeless encampment, in the east central neighborhood.https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_0581ddf6-ca9a-11ed-9fa4-17df410f2775.html
... The ruling said that the encampment, colloquially known as Camp Hope, “has become a public health and safety hazard” declaring it a nuisance, and has ordered the state to work with city officials to clear the property.
2023.03.25 09:30 expedition_forces Southern Arizona Survival advice needed!
We have several retrieval expeditions coming up for Southern Arizona and just over the state border in NM for Mid April.
What kind of conditions can you expected around this time of the year? What about the vegetation any special clothing needed? Anything else to be aware off?
On a side note this expedition was sprung on us really last minute and we still have an opening for anyone interested as most of our teams are already planned in for jungle survival courses and expeditions in South America. Send me a DM.
More opportunities following that (for this year) with retrieval expeditions in Alaska, West and East Africa coming up (which are locations we normally work in plus South America).
Cheers and thanks for the advice.
submitted by expedition_forces to Survival [link] [comments]
What kind of conditions can you expected around this time of the year? What about the vegetation any special clothing needed? Anything else to be aware off?
On a side note this expedition was sprung on us really last minute and we still have an opening for anyone interested as most of our teams are already planned in for jungle survival courses and expeditions in South America. Send me a DM.
More opportunities following that (for this year) with retrieval expeditions in Alaska, West and East Africa coming up (which are locations we normally work in plus South America).
Cheers and thanks for the advice.
2023.03.25 09:21 Sweden13 Oscar Robertson: A Career Evaluation
DISCLAIMER: I am biased against Oscar Robertson. I do not like Oscar and find him to be one of the most overrated players in league history, and this post is very much for the sake of making and proving that agenda. I DO have to admit- contemporary players and people who know basketball way better than I do value Oscar, and there are those oldies who call him the GOAT- the Oscar fans are probably closer to the truth than I am, so consider this a form of... devil's advocacy. Except the writer is delusional enough to believe it.
But it's just that. The 1971 ring with the Bucks. Robertson had played in the league as "the man" for a decade before this past his prime ring. He wasn't Mr. Triple Double because of the Bucks, but because of his stint with the Cincinnati Royals. How did these Royals teams go? Was he the lone star, struggling as our Kings forerunners utterly failed to put a team around him? Just get unlucky? Well, this post is an exploration of Oscar Robertson's career, focusing on the Royals years. So, out with the introduction, and in with the basketball!
Oscar dominated statistically, that cannot be denied. Gaudy scoring, passing and rebounding numbers translated into league leading offenses year after year after year. And what did those turn into?
Out of 10 years, Oscar missed the playoffs four times. What other super star missed the playoffs four times in their prime? A fifth time, he made the playoffs with an under .500 record. So I'd solidly say half the time, this team underperformed. But in his six playoff ventures he:
In terms of regular season success Oscar's teams... never really had it. His most admirable playoff run came in 1963, where they upset the Sixers and pushed the Celtics to the limit. 1964 was their single best regular season (and only 50 win season), and their vaunted offense was DISMANTLED by the Celtics in the conference finals. From that point forward, the Royals just slid back into obscurity.
I've been really harsh on Oscar, so it's time to be fairer- this team's defensive issues were not his fault. The failure to get a strong rim protector was on management, and their defense would just be a sieve throughout the whole run. His supporting cast had talent but... they were also imperfect. Jack Twyman was an elite scorer and strong second option, but he wasn't a defender. When he led a team, they won 19 games. Embry was undersized and a short prime. Jerry Lucas statistically dominated, but I think, to a degree, he's an "empty stats" sorta player. He's overrated much the same way Oscar is, with the caveat that it's the year 2023 and no one really cares about Jerry Lucas anymore. Tom Van Arsdale famously is the best player to never make the playoffs either, and Adrian Smith... is a guard. Who won all-star MVP once. A bunch of good players here, but this team just stacked the offense too much.
Anyways, to sum up this section- the Royals tenure was disappointing. Oscar's teams were never transcendent, and actually, were disappointing more often than not. Oscar's stats are impressive and come from a team that didn't play defense in one of the highest paced eras in NBA history, and he plays next to a guy where the consensus is the stats "overrate" him. My take is that Oscar falls in the same boat- a great player whose stats and flashy style makes him look better than he really was, with less contribution to winning. In terms of his contemporaries, I'd dare to say Jerry West should clearly be over him, and I tend to favor Bob Pettit and Elgin Baylor too, depending on the day. Oscar's career didn't end with Cincy of course- so time to cover the Bucks.
Again, I'm being a little too cruel. Oscar Robertson played a key part in the greatness of the 1971 Bucks, but this wasn't a ring carried by two super stars. This was Kareem and two all-stars leading a strong team to a ring.
After 1971, Oscar was old, simple as that. Was he still a good player? Yes, but a star no more. He made his final all-star game in 1972, averaging 17/5/7, and his numbers kept going down till he called it quits after the Bucks failed finals run in 1974. All-in-all, I like the comparison to CP3 on the Suns- Oscar helped a strong team get over the hump, before age began to set in. It doesn't mean he's not a good player, just that he's past his prime. And just like Chris Paul's lack of playoff success before Phoenix doesn't mean he's not an all-time great, the Big O's struggles in Cincinnati doesn't mean he's not one either.
Just not as great as some might think.
submitted by Sweden13 to nba [link] [comments]
Introduction
Mister Triple Double. One of the greatest point guards of all time. Former MVP. Oscar Robertson has a reputation as one of the greatest Point Guards of all time, and it's hard to say it isn't well-earned. A glance at the stat sheet showcases EXACTLY how much Oscar filled them up. But in the modern NBA discourse, or better or for worse (it's for worse), there is one thing that's key- rings and winning. And at first glance, Oscar has that, that 1971 ring with the Bucks preventing him from being banished to the realm of ringless superstars like Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Elgin Baylor and Steve Nash.But it's just that. The 1971 ring with the Bucks. Robertson had played in the league as "the man" for a decade before this past his prime ring. He wasn't Mr. Triple Double because of the Bucks, but because of his stint with the Cincinnati Royals. How did these Royals teams go? Was he the lone star, struggling as our Kings forerunners utterly failed to put a team around him? Just get unlucky? Well, this post is an exploration of Oscar Robertson's career, focusing on the Royals years. So, out with the introduction, and in with the basketball!
1960-1961
- Stats: 30.5/10.1/9.7
- Team Record: 33-46
1961-1962
- Stats: 30.8/12.5/11.4
- Team Record: 43-37
1962-1963
- Stats: 28.6/10.4/9.5
- Team Record: 42-38
1963-1964
- Stats: 31.4/9.9/11.0
- Team Record: 55-25
1964-65
- Stats: 30.4/9.0/11.5
- Team Record: 48-32
1965-66
- Stats: 31.3/7.7/11.1
- Team Record: 45-35
1966-67
- Stats: 30.5/6.2/10.7
- Team Record: 39-42
1967-68
- Stats: 29.2/6.0/9.7
- Team Record: 39-43
1968-69
- Stats: 24.7/6.4/9.8
- Team Record: 41-41
1969-70
- Stats: 25.3/6.1/8.1
- Team Record: 36-46
Cincinnati Overview
Before I get to the Bucks, let me sum up the extent of the core of Oscar's career, this 10 year stint with the Royals:Oscar dominated statistically, that cannot be denied. Gaudy scoring, passing and rebounding numbers translated into league leading offenses year after year after year. And what did those turn into?
Out of 10 years, Oscar missed the playoffs four times. What other super star missed the playoffs four times in their prime? A fifth time, he made the playoffs with an under .500 record. So I'd solidly say half the time, this team underperformed. But in his six playoff ventures he:
- Lost once to the lesser seeded Detroit Pistons
- Lost three times to the Boston Celtics
- Lost twice to the Wilt 76ers
In terms of regular season success Oscar's teams... never really had it. His most admirable playoff run came in 1963, where they upset the Sixers and pushed the Celtics to the limit. 1964 was their single best regular season (and only 50 win season), and their vaunted offense was DISMANTLED by the Celtics in the conference finals. From that point forward, the Royals just slid back into obscurity.
I've been really harsh on Oscar, so it's time to be fairer- this team's defensive issues were not his fault. The failure to get a strong rim protector was on management, and their defense would just be a sieve throughout the whole run. His supporting cast had talent but... they were also imperfect. Jack Twyman was an elite scorer and strong second option, but he wasn't a defender. When he led a team, they won 19 games. Embry was undersized and a short prime. Jerry Lucas statistically dominated, but I think, to a degree, he's an "empty stats" sorta player. He's overrated much the same way Oscar is, with the caveat that it's the year 2023 and no one really cares about Jerry Lucas anymore. Tom Van Arsdale famously is the best player to never make the playoffs either, and Adrian Smith... is a guard. Who won all-star MVP once. A bunch of good players here, but this team just stacked the offense too much.
Anyways, to sum up this section- the Royals tenure was disappointing. Oscar's teams were never transcendent, and actually, were disappointing more often than not. Oscar's stats are impressive and come from a team that didn't play defense in one of the highest paced eras in NBA history, and he plays next to a guy where the consensus is the stats "overrate" him. My take is that Oscar falls in the same boat- a great player whose stats and flashy style makes him look better than he really was, with less contribution to winning. In terms of his contemporaries, I'd dare to say Jerry West should clearly be over him, and I tend to favor Bob Pettit and Elgin Baylor too, depending on the day. Oscar's career didn't end with Cincy of course- so time to cover the Bucks.
Postlude: The Milwaukee Bucks
The greatest team Oscar was ever on wasn't the Cincinnati Royals, but the 1971 Milwaukee Bucks. And for once, he was the number two. The Bucks were Kareem's team- 32 and 16 make that quite clear, but Oscar still contributed, with 19/5/8. He was GOOD, but this isn't Mr. Triple Double. And in an odd twist, despite shouldering less of the load, Oscar was LESS efficient once he joined Kareem. The Bucks weren't a two man show though- they also starred the incredibly underrated Bobby Dandridge, who averaged 18/8/3.5 himself. A recent hall of fame inductee, Dandridge scored more points in the finals in the 70's than ANY other player, one of my favorite pieces of trivia. And in fact, Dandridge scored more over this playoff run than Oscar did himself- he's more of a third star than a roleplayer, and I favor the argument that he was the Bucks second best player throughout their tenure with the Bucks- as demonstrated by continued success as Oscar aged.Again, I'm being a little too cruel. Oscar Robertson played a key part in the greatness of the 1971 Bucks, but this wasn't a ring carried by two super stars. This was Kareem and two all-stars leading a strong team to a ring.
After 1971, Oscar was old, simple as that. Was he still a good player? Yes, but a star no more. He made his final all-star game in 1972, averaging 17/5/7, and his numbers kept going down till he called it quits after the Bucks failed finals run in 1974. All-in-all, I like the comparison to CP3 on the Suns- Oscar helped a strong team get over the hump, before age began to set in. It doesn't mean he's not a good player, just that he's past his prime. And just like Chris Paul's lack of playoff success before Phoenix doesn't mean he's not an all-time great, the Big O's struggles in Cincinnati doesn't mean he's not one either.
Just not as great as some might think.
2023.03.25 08:45 chuck1011212 Accelerating your FIRE goals via the Middle East option
I want to bring this subject up because I don't see anyone really talking about Americans working in the Middle East (Safer locations only: Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, Oman, Turkey) as an option to accelerate your FIRE goals. It has really worked great for me.
I am currently working in Qatar. Clean, safe, nice people, things to do, bars that serve alcohol, can also buy alcohol at the state run liquor store, superb brand new underground Metro, cheap Uber rides, home to the outstanding Qatar Airways and direct flights to most all of the cool places in the world, cheap food and grocery delivery. Qatar is much smaller than Dubai, but is moving in a similar direction to Dubai and encouraging tourism. Nothing to do in Qatar on the level of Dubai yet though.
The perks of Middle East (Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, Oman) FIRE acceleration -
Good money, but long hours. Typically 12 hour shifts with two days off per week
Housing provided free - The quality of the housing is generally great but differs per company. i am living in a really nice 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in walking distance to food and the Metro.
No bills other than the ones you create for yourself - A cell phone bill is typically the only bill and mine is $20 per month for 4g 8 gigs of data and unlimited calls and txts. 5G is available here too.
No insurances if you don't own a car - I hate insurance companies
Lowered US federal tax liability - You can typically add 25% to your take home vs. same pay in America. The first $122'ish thousand of pay is not federally taxed. This number changes every year. Also no state taxes depending on how your state is setup for overseas work. Side note: Could be beneficial to change your state of residence before going overseas to avoid paying state taxes in states that still tax you even if you are overseas. This can be done easily if you do your research - even without doing an actualy state to state move.
World travel experience - Being on this side of the world is great for travel. Get a travel credit card for travel perks.
Cheap and excellent health care - Low monthly cost for a world healthcare plan and no copays or out of pocket costs at all for anything as long as you stay out of the US. You read that right. Go to the doctor, pay $0. Go to the hospital, pay 0$. If you need health care while in the US on vacation or something, expect deductibles and the typical BS that we live with in the US.
For example: I went to the local Turkish Hospital here in Qatar (which is super new, clean and amazing) for an ear infection and had no appointment. We typically go to what they call hospitals for a doctor visit, as they are fully featured hospitals that take walk-ins as their normal operation. I saw a real doctor and was in and out of the hospital in 15 minutes INCLUDING getting my prescription. Try that in America at any establishment. I paid $0. If I had some exotic health problem then maybe I would consider going to America for treatment, but for most everything it is far better here.
They generally like Americans in the above Middle East countries
How to find work:
I have experience with and can recommend looking for a US company doing contract work for the US government on US military bases in these countries. These include Vectrus, General Dynamics, Leidos, Ratheon, CACI and other government contract companies. These jobs are not typically well advertised on job boards such as Indeed and can sometimes take some inside info to find. (like knowing somebody working there already) The DoD contracts change all the time, and some listings for jobs are advertised even before a government contract is awarded to a company. This is frustrating, but it is the game. This just means to expect to apply for overseas jobs and expect to hear nothing for most applications.
Here is the strategy that worked for me:
Get a DoD contracting job at your local (or any) military base in the US and then use that as a springboard for your overseas adventure. This will get you the required DoD experience and security clearance stuff. Then you are an easy pickup for any overseas contract. You can then talk to your coworkers at the US military base that have experience overseas and they can discuss their experience with you before you commit to an overseas contract job.
Best bet is to google top 20 US government contract companies, then go directly to each company's web site and search their job listings from their site. This sucks, but it is what it is. You can typically search by physical location, which will get you some listings quick if you know where you want to live.
Additionally, I recommend you do a resume overhaul by someone that does it professionally on Fiver or other sites. For 75'ish bucks, one of these guys will clean up your resume and get it looking good plus make it standards complaint. Standards complaince is the key. This will make it super easy to apply on these company sites and will automatically fill in their information gathering fields for you based on what is on your resume. If your resume is not standards complaint, these fields will not auto populate for you and applying on company sites will be a lengthy and miserable effort.
Also, there are options for working for local companies in the host countries directly. This could be doing things like working for the oil companies or being a teacher at the local private schools or doing IT stuff. This option comes with lots of unknowns. Be sure to do your research as much as possible before committing to one of these positions including speaking to a currently employed American there that can guide you with any questions you may have. You will likely be working with lots of other nationalities, so be ready to learn about other cultures and deal with some language barriers.
Family:
Some countries are friendlier than others about bringing your family members. Your employer should help with this, but be ready for it to test your patience. Kids that need school will likely need a private school and this will have some cost. A spouse could find work also, but I don't know much about this. I am single and don't have any of these experiences to provide valid info on this subject.
Freedom and privacy:
Nope. If you are a gun totin' freedom of everything type person, this is not the life for you.
You will give blood to be here. Literally. They test the blood for who knows what and use it for who knows what. You will also give fingerprints to be here. They have video surveillance everywhere and some places require an App on your phone for this or that, which also tracks you. If this is a problem for you, don't come to these places. It is that simple.
Safety:
Do your research, but these countries are all significantly safer than America. In some cases, the entire country is safer than the typical American small town. Let that sink in. I don't lock my apartment door unless I am sleeping. This includes while going out of the country for week(s) long vacations.
Attitude:
Always remember that you are a guest in any country you go. Leave your attitude at home, be patient and smile. You don't need to learn a language, but learning a few words will be helpful. Everywhere you go outside of the US will allow you to get by just speaking English. Speak slowly, use few words and talk like a caveman and you can get by with English most anywhere.
Overseas Saving Strategy:
You are not going to be taxed like in the US, so contributing to a 401k may or may not be beneficial. Depends if your company matches or not. Obviously go for the match if they have one as that is free money. If not, then consider your time to FIRE and whether you wanna max out 401k if you are not getting the tax benefits as well as the timing of your FIRE. If you are 40 and want to FIRE before 59 and 1/2, then pumping your 401k without the tax perks is not going to benefit you and could hurt you if you want to withdraw early. Instead, pump money into a standard investment account so that you can access this money when you are 45 or 48 without penalty.
For me, I am not currently putting anything into a 401k. I am taking 75+% of my income and putting it into a low cost set of index funds. The rest, I am taking awesome vacations in Asian countries scoping out what my FIRE life will look like. I don't plan on returning to America. Ever.
Pay:
You can expect that you will get a similar pay per hour as you may get in the US for the same job. The difference is the guaranteed and required overtime as well as the perks of paid living expenses and reduced or 0 income tax. The days of guys getting massive pay for working in a war zone are generally gone, but we are not entertaining working in a warzone in this post. I have never considered war zone work even though it has been presented to me.
I also like to play with this fire calculator to see where I am and check on my goals and progress:
https://engaging-data.com/fire-calculato
submitted by chuck1011212 to financialindependence [link] [comments]
I am currently working in Qatar. Clean, safe, nice people, things to do, bars that serve alcohol, can also buy alcohol at the state run liquor store, superb brand new underground Metro, cheap Uber rides, home to the outstanding Qatar Airways and direct flights to most all of the cool places in the world, cheap food and grocery delivery. Qatar is much smaller than Dubai, but is moving in a similar direction to Dubai and encouraging tourism. Nothing to do in Qatar on the level of Dubai yet though.
The perks of Middle East (Kuwait, Qatar, Dubai, Oman) FIRE acceleration -
Good money, but long hours. Typically 12 hour shifts with two days off per week
Housing provided free - The quality of the housing is generally great but differs per company. i am living in a really nice 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in walking distance to food and the Metro.
No bills other than the ones you create for yourself - A cell phone bill is typically the only bill and mine is $20 per month for 4g 8 gigs of data and unlimited calls and txts. 5G is available here too.
No insurances if you don't own a car - I hate insurance companies
Lowered US federal tax liability - You can typically add 25% to your take home vs. same pay in America. The first $122'ish thousand of pay is not federally taxed. This number changes every year. Also no state taxes depending on how your state is setup for overseas work. Side note: Could be beneficial to change your state of residence before going overseas to avoid paying state taxes in states that still tax you even if you are overseas. This can be done easily if you do your research - even without doing an actualy state to state move.
World travel experience - Being on this side of the world is great for travel. Get a travel credit card for travel perks.
Cheap and excellent health care - Low monthly cost for a world healthcare plan and no copays or out of pocket costs at all for anything as long as you stay out of the US. You read that right. Go to the doctor, pay $0. Go to the hospital, pay 0$. If you need health care while in the US on vacation or something, expect deductibles and the typical BS that we live with in the US.
For example: I went to the local Turkish Hospital here in Qatar (which is super new, clean and amazing) for an ear infection and had no appointment. We typically go to what they call hospitals for a doctor visit, as they are fully featured hospitals that take walk-ins as their normal operation. I saw a real doctor and was in and out of the hospital in 15 minutes INCLUDING getting my prescription. Try that in America at any establishment. I paid $0. If I had some exotic health problem then maybe I would consider going to America for treatment, but for most everything it is far better here.
They generally like Americans in the above Middle East countries
How to find work:
I have experience with and can recommend looking for a US company doing contract work for the US government on US military bases in these countries. These include Vectrus, General Dynamics, Leidos, Ratheon, CACI and other government contract companies. These jobs are not typically well advertised on job boards such as Indeed and can sometimes take some inside info to find. (like knowing somebody working there already) The DoD contracts change all the time, and some listings for jobs are advertised even before a government contract is awarded to a company. This is frustrating, but it is the game. This just means to expect to apply for overseas jobs and expect to hear nothing for most applications.
Here is the strategy that worked for me:
Get a DoD contracting job at your local (or any) military base in the US and then use that as a springboard for your overseas adventure. This will get you the required DoD experience and security clearance stuff. Then you are an easy pickup for any overseas contract. You can then talk to your coworkers at the US military base that have experience overseas and they can discuss their experience with you before you commit to an overseas contract job.
Best bet is to google top 20 US government contract companies, then go directly to each company's web site and search their job listings from their site. This sucks, but it is what it is. You can typically search by physical location, which will get you some listings quick if you know where you want to live.
Additionally, I recommend you do a resume overhaul by someone that does it professionally on Fiver or other sites. For 75'ish bucks, one of these guys will clean up your resume and get it looking good plus make it standards complaint. Standards complaince is the key. This will make it super easy to apply on these company sites and will automatically fill in their information gathering fields for you based on what is on your resume. If your resume is not standards complaint, these fields will not auto populate for you and applying on company sites will be a lengthy and miserable effort.
Also, there are options for working for local companies in the host countries directly. This could be doing things like working for the oil companies or being a teacher at the local private schools or doing IT stuff. This option comes with lots of unknowns. Be sure to do your research as much as possible before committing to one of these positions including speaking to a currently employed American there that can guide you with any questions you may have. You will likely be working with lots of other nationalities, so be ready to learn about other cultures and deal with some language barriers.
Family:
Some countries are friendlier than others about bringing your family members. Your employer should help with this, but be ready for it to test your patience. Kids that need school will likely need a private school and this will have some cost. A spouse could find work also, but I don't know much about this. I am single and don't have any of these experiences to provide valid info on this subject.
Freedom and privacy:
Nope. If you are a gun totin' freedom of everything type person, this is not the life for you.
You will give blood to be here. Literally. They test the blood for who knows what and use it for who knows what. You will also give fingerprints to be here. They have video surveillance everywhere and some places require an App on your phone for this or that, which also tracks you. If this is a problem for you, don't come to these places. It is that simple.
Safety:
Do your research, but these countries are all significantly safer than America. In some cases, the entire country is safer than the typical American small town. Let that sink in. I don't lock my apartment door unless I am sleeping. This includes while going out of the country for week(s) long vacations.
Attitude:
Always remember that you are a guest in any country you go. Leave your attitude at home, be patient and smile. You don't need to learn a language, but learning a few words will be helpful. Everywhere you go outside of the US will allow you to get by just speaking English. Speak slowly, use few words and talk like a caveman and you can get by with English most anywhere.
Overseas Saving Strategy:
You are not going to be taxed like in the US, so contributing to a 401k may or may not be beneficial. Depends if your company matches or not. Obviously go for the match if they have one as that is free money. If not, then consider your time to FIRE and whether you wanna max out 401k if you are not getting the tax benefits as well as the timing of your FIRE. If you are 40 and want to FIRE before 59 and 1/2, then pumping your 401k without the tax perks is not going to benefit you and could hurt you if you want to withdraw early. Instead, pump money into a standard investment account so that you can access this money when you are 45 or 48 without penalty.
For me, I am not currently putting anything into a 401k. I am taking 75+% of my income and putting it into a low cost set of index funds. The rest, I am taking awesome vacations in Asian countries scoping out what my FIRE life will look like. I don't plan on returning to America. Ever.
Pay:
You can expect that you will get a similar pay per hour as you may get in the US for the same job. The difference is the guaranteed and required overtime as well as the perks of paid living expenses and reduced or 0 income tax. The days of guys getting massive pay for working in a war zone are generally gone, but we are not entertaining working in a warzone in this post. I have never considered war zone work even though it has been presented to me.
I also like to play with this fire calculator to see where I am and check on my goals and progress:
https://engaging-data.com/fire-calculato
2023.03.25 08:37 enclavegamingyt 21[M4F] USA/Online wheres player 2 at? The world needs saving.
Hey been a week ish. Last girl ghosted me. Not the first or last time for sure i bet. So here we are again. Its been a bunch of posts since the last large one with ridiculous detail so brace yourselves. Please read the whole thing. I know its alot but something might stand out as a conversation starter or a concern to you. It will also reveal a clue as to my security questions answer
Howdy. I am Jason. To start I know it says USA/Online but if your local (river valley arkansas) or from somewhere in europe or else where in the world feel free to message me. If it wasnt obvious i want something long term preferably. Im traditional in my views of relationships for the most part. Meaning ideally a relationship leading to marriage and a family.
So about me. Im from north east oklahoma originally. Near tulsa. And now live west central Arkansas in the river valley. Im very southern. I did AFJROTC and band in school. I went striaght into the workforce and currently work as a security guard. I work from midnight to 8 am so im a night owl. But i function normally on my days off.
Im a gamer. I play on two platforms. Xbox but on pc primarily. I play anything from call of duty to age of empires and minecraft. Im sure if you play games i play something you do. Except fortnite. That game is a scourge on this planet.
I dont use social media, i hate snap chat, facebook, tiktok, instagram, insert other annoying mainstream social media app here. I literally only use reddit for this and for trouble shooting tech issues. And discord. But discord is almost a hard requirement for gaming now. Best bet for getting ahold of me is on there. Because i generally assume chats or dms on here are bots. Unless you pass my security check of course. Which will come later.
I am a recreational shooter. I collect guns and other historical memorabilia like helmets, uniforms, medals, etc and shooting at the range. I own an Armalite Rifle and Avtomat Kalashnikov. Its an expensive hobby. And means the fed know who i am. Where i am. And what i say at all times. So if you dont lile the fed i apologize. I wish they didnt know me but its a cost of my rights apparantly. That and ridiculous tax stamps.
Im physically not very interesting. Im like somewhere between 5'10 and 6 foot. I was last measured in highschool. Im on the heavier side but definitely not like to big to ride amusment park rides or fly on planes i guess. I got that redneckish good ole boy facial structure. If you really wanna see my face i have a picture of me here at work i can share. And im sure old JROTC pics of me still exist. I also dress either like im to lazy to dress or i get 'cowboyed up' if im goim somewhere.
Disclaimer. If you dont like politics or religion skip this paragraph. I believe a healthy relationship isnt possible with secrets about personal beliefs and political ones. Im what would be considered right wing leaning now. Although when i was 17/18 i was considered left leaning. I believe in the 10 god given rights enshrined by law. I believe in god. Non demoninational christian but leaning into the baptist mindset. I believe in the nuclear family, traditional love, and other 'conservative' values. Personally id call myself a populist or classical liberal in the sense of im a live and let live just keep it in your own home kinda guy. If you did read this and are still here. Thank you. Your already more intelligent than the majority of reddit. Your a real hero.
I guess this is the last thing. And this part you can either feel in the blanks or somethin. All i ask is be 18-28, have atleast 1 or 2 things in common. Be open mindednand willing to agree to disagree on my beliefs. And be looking for a longterm family oriented relationship goal.
Now for the "security" check and discord exchange. Start off with my discord. Its Jason Lawrence Lewis#6292. And the security question for my reddit messages. It might require a google search for some of you. But. Its what does the AR in AR-15 or the AK in AK-47/74 stand for. If you message me that in your opening message i will explain what the numbers in both mean in my opening response to yall. If you do not answer the security question i will IGNORE you message because i know you didnt read this. And will not waste my time A. Being bot trapped. Or B. Trolled. Thank yall have a great morning, day, afternoon, evening, night where ever you are. Hope to here from all yall soon.
submitted by enclavegamingyt to ForeverAloneDating [link] [comments]
Howdy. I am Jason. To start I know it says USA/Online but if your local (river valley arkansas) or from somewhere in europe or else where in the world feel free to message me. If it wasnt obvious i want something long term preferably. Im traditional in my views of relationships for the most part. Meaning ideally a relationship leading to marriage and a family.
So about me. Im from north east oklahoma originally. Near tulsa. And now live west central Arkansas in the river valley. Im very southern. I did AFJROTC and band in school. I went striaght into the workforce and currently work as a security guard. I work from midnight to 8 am so im a night owl. But i function normally on my days off.
Im a gamer. I play on two platforms. Xbox but on pc primarily. I play anything from call of duty to age of empires and minecraft. Im sure if you play games i play something you do. Except fortnite. That game is a scourge on this planet.
I dont use social media, i hate snap chat, facebook, tiktok, instagram, insert other annoying mainstream social media app here. I literally only use reddit for this and for trouble shooting tech issues. And discord. But discord is almost a hard requirement for gaming now. Best bet for getting ahold of me is on there. Because i generally assume chats or dms on here are bots. Unless you pass my security check of course. Which will come later.
I am a recreational shooter. I collect guns and other historical memorabilia like helmets, uniforms, medals, etc and shooting at the range. I own an Armalite Rifle and Avtomat Kalashnikov. Its an expensive hobby. And means the fed know who i am. Where i am. And what i say at all times. So if you dont lile the fed i apologize. I wish they didnt know me but its a cost of my rights apparantly. That and ridiculous tax stamps.
Im physically not very interesting. Im like somewhere between 5'10 and 6 foot. I was last measured in highschool. Im on the heavier side but definitely not like to big to ride amusment park rides or fly on planes i guess. I got that redneckish good ole boy facial structure. If you really wanna see my face i have a picture of me here at work i can share. And im sure old JROTC pics of me still exist. I also dress either like im to lazy to dress or i get 'cowboyed up' if im goim somewhere.
Disclaimer. If you dont like politics or religion skip this paragraph. I believe a healthy relationship isnt possible with secrets about personal beliefs and political ones. Im what would be considered right wing leaning now. Although when i was 17/18 i was considered left leaning. I believe in the 10 god given rights enshrined by law. I believe in god. Non demoninational christian but leaning into the baptist mindset. I believe in the nuclear family, traditional love, and other 'conservative' values. Personally id call myself a populist or classical liberal in the sense of im a live and let live just keep it in your own home kinda guy. If you did read this and are still here. Thank you. Your already more intelligent than the majority of reddit. Your a real hero.
I guess this is the last thing. And this part you can either feel in the blanks or somethin. All i ask is be 18-28, have atleast 1 or 2 things in common. Be open mindednand willing to agree to disagree on my beliefs. And be looking for a longterm family oriented relationship goal.
Now for the "security" check and discord exchange. Start off with my discord. Its Jason Lawrence Lewis#6292. And the security question for my reddit messages. It might require a google search for some of you. But. Its what does the AR in AR-15 or the AK in AK-47/74 stand for. If you message me that in your opening message i will explain what the numbers in both mean in my opening response to yall. If you do not answer the security question i will IGNORE you message because i know you didnt read this. And will not waste my time A. Being bot trapped. Or B. Trolled. Thank yall have a great morning, day, afternoon, evening, night where ever you are. Hope to here from all yall soon.
2023.03.25 08:20 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
![Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]](https://external-preview.redd.it/MOEpD1Ty5WWdqqMcVO1a5T9qtO4X5oVjWOnmDlq9ZSY.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=f48083920276e84744279227537f54f4078551ba "Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]") | submitted by EchoJobs to JavaScriptJob [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 08:11 MugShots Man arrested after pulling gun on brother on NYCs Lower East Side
 | submitted by MugShots to ArrestStories [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 08:11 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring NixOS Developer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Python Haskell Rust C++]
![Anduril Industries is hiring NixOS Developer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Python Haskell Rust C++]](https://external-preview.redd.it/-ccfxVioIP3oOzEHt0v9w8VTt8Z1xr9aMl61OAbXysk.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=9e2da3c2efb11928edb77fd166bd9d605ffbfc23 "Anduril Industries is hiring NixOS Developer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Python Haskell Rust C++]") | submitted by EchoJobs to rustjob [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:51 CurrentPenalty8916 My concept for a ww2 game
Game based on stalingrad Everything from each man getting 5 rounds and one rifle per squad to when you're killed your POV transfers to the nearest soldier and you were forced to run to pick up the rifle to continue fighting the game takes place in real time or it's equivalent in game to the 5 months that the city was under siege can plat as either side Germans or Soviet
Description Two armies the millions clash in one city and block by block, house by house and street by street, No Matter who you fight for, the motherlander or father land, political ideology or your fear of execution If you refuse to fight. GAME NAME HERE takes you on a one of a kind journey from the eyes of a cowering red army private to the steely eyes of a battle hardend luftwaffe ace facing his last flight, to the rage filled heart of a Soviet t-34 commander. This ensures no two experiences are ever the same. Weather you are rolling trough the streets in a mamoth tiger 1 and trip a mine that wasn't there yesterday or you get cut in half by MG-34 fire coming from a machine gun nest in the building across the street from the house you and your comrades slept in.
FEATURES
Reastic bullet impact and ricochet Mocap running and throwing aswell as other motions
When certain parts of you are hit they react like real life (the MG-34 "cutting you in half" actually does that and has internal organs and blood anatomical correct (no genitalia for obvious reasons)
EXCLUSIVELY THEATER AND TIME RELEVENT WEAPONS no type-99's will EVER be found
Squad command structure for Germany is more effective than russian. As reflective of history.
Sleeping grants a save game buy you can only sleep at night and in shelter such as a burnt out tank or bombed out basement.
Day cycle is 1/12 so 1 hour is 12 in game hours
Diffrent difficulty settings ranging from Exploration/arcade: possible cheats like infinite ammo and unlimited sprint Easy: 1 shot to the head is death buy you can take 10 to the chest or 2 per limb before death however at the halfway mark (so 5 for the chest and 1 to the limbs) mobility is SEVERLY limited.
Normal: half health, 5 to the chest 1 per limb AND if certain rounds hit they do more damage ( an anti tank rifle will one tap you no matter where it hits. Same for flamethrower and grenades.)
Hard: 1 shot per limb and 2 body
Order 227: 1 tap anywhere on the body and if you retreat more than one street from your advance you are shot by your own men behind you.
Procedurele generated environment. The streets are the exact same layout as the real city but houses and other buildings have interiors and bomb damage randomized. (So on one playthrough 123 panzer street will have no wall on the east but on play trough 2, 123 panzer street has walls on all sides and windows)
Attachments and weapons Ok here's the deal no holographic sights and no thermals. Nothing post feb 2 1943 as that is the end of the battle. No modernized variants of guns like a dp 27 having a pistol grip as that happend in 1944.
I'll add more later as this idea is still very early in design.
submitted by CurrentPenalty8916 to gameideas [link] [comments]
Description Two armies the millions clash in one city and block by block, house by house and street by street, No Matter who you fight for, the motherlander or father land, political ideology or your fear of execution If you refuse to fight. GAME NAME HERE takes you on a one of a kind journey from the eyes of a cowering red army private to the steely eyes of a battle hardend luftwaffe ace facing his last flight, to the rage filled heart of a Soviet t-34 commander. This ensures no two experiences are ever the same. Weather you are rolling trough the streets in a mamoth tiger 1 and trip a mine that wasn't there yesterday or you get cut in half by MG-34 fire coming from a machine gun nest in the building across the street from the house you and your comrades slept in.
FEATURES
Reastic bullet impact and ricochet Mocap running and throwing aswell as other motions
When certain parts of you are hit they react like real life (the MG-34 "cutting you in half" actually does that and has internal organs and blood anatomical correct (no genitalia for obvious reasons)
EXCLUSIVELY THEATER AND TIME RELEVENT WEAPONS no type-99's will EVER be found
Squad command structure for Germany is more effective than russian. As reflective of history.
Sleeping grants a save game buy you can only sleep at night and in shelter such as a burnt out tank or bombed out basement.
Day cycle is 1/12 so 1 hour is 12 in game hours
Diffrent difficulty settings ranging from Exploration/arcade: possible cheats like infinite ammo and unlimited sprint Easy: 1 shot to the head is death buy you can take 10 to the chest or 2 per limb before death however at the halfway mark (so 5 for the chest and 1 to the limbs) mobility is SEVERLY limited.
Normal: half health, 5 to the chest 1 per limb AND if certain rounds hit they do more damage ( an anti tank rifle will one tap you no matter where it hits. Same for flamethrower and grenades.)
Hard: 1 shot per limb and 2 body
Order 227: 1 tap anywhere on the body and if you retreat more than one street from your advance you are shot by your own men behind you.
Procedurele generated environment. The streets are the exact same layout as the real city but houses and other buildings have interiors and bomb damage randomized. (So on one playthrough 123 panzer street will have no wall on the east but on play trough 2, 123 panzer street has walls on all sides and windows)
Attachments and weapons Ok here's the deal no holographic sights and no thermals. Nothing post feb 2 1943 as that is the end of the battle. No modernized variants of guns like a dp 27 having a pistol grip as that happend in 1944.
I'll add more later as this idea is still very early in design.
2023.03.25 07:51 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
| | submitted by EchoJobs to joblead [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:51 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
| | submitted by EchoJobs to echojobs [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:50 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
| | submitted by EchoJobs to golangjob [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:50 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
| | submitted by EchoJobs to CodingJobs [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:50 EchoJobs Anduril Industries is hiring Senior Flight Test Engineer Costa Mesa, CA [Go Java C++ Python JavaScript]
| | submitted by EchoJobs to pythonjob [link] [comments] |
2023.03.25 07:49 CurrentPenalty8916 Game idea I had
Game based on stalingrad Everything from each man getting 5 rounds and one rifle per squad to when you're killed your POV transfers to the nearest soldier and you were forced to run to pick up the rifle to continue fighting the game takes place in real time or it's equivalent in game to the 5 months that the city was under siege can plat as either side Germans or Soviet
Description Two armies the millions clash in one city and block by block, house by house and street by street, No Matter who you fight for, the motherlander or father land, political ideology or your fear of execution If you refuse to fight. GAME NAME HERE takes you on a one of a kind journey from the eyes of a cowering red army private to the steely eyes of a battle hardend luftwaffe ace facing his last flight, to the rage filled heart of a Soviet t-34 commander. This ensures no two experiences are ever the same. Weather you are rolling trough the streets in a mamoth tiger 1 and trip a mine that wasn't there yesterday or you get cut in half by MG-34 fire coming from a machine gun nest in the building across the street from the house you and your comrades slept in.
FEATURES
Reastic bullet impact and ricochet Mocap running and throwing aswell as other motions
When certain parts of you are hit they react like real life (the MG-34 "cutting you in half" actually does that and has internal organs and blood anatomical correct (no genitalia for obvious reasons)
EXCLUSIVELY THEATER AND TIME RELEVENT WEAPONS no type-99's will EVER be found
Squad command structure for Germany is more effective than russian. As reflective of history.
Sleeping grants a save game buy you can only sleep at night and in shelter such as a burnt out tank or bombed out basement.
Day cycle is 1/12 so 1 hour is 12 in game hours
Diffrent difficulty settings ranging from Exploration/arcade: possible cheats like infinite ammo and unlimited sprint Easy: 1 shot to the head is death buy you can take 10 to the chest or 2 per limb before death however at the halfway mark (so 5 for the chest and 1 to the limbs) mobility is SEVERLY limited.
Normal: half health, 5 to the chest 1 per limb AND if certain rounds hit they do more damage ( an anti tank rifle will one tap you no matter where it hits. Same for flamethrower and grenades.)
Hard: 1 shot per limb and 2 body
Order 227: 1 tap anywhere on the body and if you retreat more than one street from your advance you are shot by your own men behind you.
Procedurele generated environment. The streets are the exact same layout as the real city but houses and other buildings have interiors and bomb damage randomized. (So on one playthrough 123 panzer street will have no wall on the east but on play trough 2, 123 panzer street has walls on all sides and windows)
Attachments and weapons Ok here's the deal no holographic sights and no thermals. Nothing post feb 2 1943 as that is the end of the battle. No modernized variants of guns like a dp 27 having a pistol grip as that happend in 1944.
I'll add more later as this idea is still very early in design.
submitted by CurrentPenalty8916 to brandonherrara [link] [comments]
Description Two armies the millions clash in one city and block by block, house by house and street by street, No Matter who you fight for, the motherlander or father land, political ideology or your fear of execution If you refuse to fight. GAME NAME HERE takes you on a one of a kind journey from the eyes of a cowering red army private to the steely eyes of a battle hardend luftwaffe ace facing his last flight, to the rage filled heart of a Soviet t-34 commander. This ensures no two experiences are ever the same. Weather you are rolling trough the streets in a mamoth tiger 1 and trip a mine that wasn't there yesterday or you get cut in half by MG-34 fire coming from a machine gun nest in the building across the street from the house you and your comrades slept in.
FEATURES
Reastic bullet impact and ricochet Mocap running and throwing aswell as other motions
When certain parts of you are hit they react like real life (the MG-34 "cutting you in half" actually does that and has internal organs and blood anatomical correct (no genitalia for obvious reasons)
EXCLUSIVELY THEATER AND TIME RELEVENT WEAPONS no type-99's will EVER be found
Squad command structure for Germany is more effective than russian. As reflective of history.
Sleeping grants a save game buy you can only sleep at night and in shelter such as a burnt out tank or bombed out basement.
Day cycle is 1/12 so 1 hour is 12 in game hours
Diffrent difficulty settings ranging from Exploration/arcade: possible cheats like infinite ammo and unlimited sprint Easy: 1 shot to the head is death buy you can take 10 to the chest or 2 per limb before death however at the halfway mark (so 5 for the chest and 1 to the limbs) mobility is SEVERLY limited.
Normal: half health, 5 to the chest 1 per limb AND if certain rounds hit they do more damage ( an anti tank rifle will one tap you no matter where it hits. Same for flamethrower and grenades.)
Hard: 1 shot per limb and 2 body
Order 227: 1 tap anywhere on the body and if you retreat more than one street from your advance you are shot by your own men behind you.
Procedurele generated environment. The streets are the exact same layout as the real city but houses and other buildings have interiors and bomb damage randomized. (So on one playthrough 123 panzer street will have no wall on the east but on play trough 2, 123 panzer street has walls on all sides and windows)
Attachments and weapons Ok here's the deal no holographic sights and no thermals. Nothing post feb 2 1943 as that is the end of the battle. No modernized variants of guns like a dp 27 having a pistol grip as that happend in 1944.
I'll add more later as this idea is still very early in design.
2023.03.25 07:47 Chagdoo Hey fun fact there's an instant death pit on the woodsman's map.
By woodsman's map, I mean the section of the world he's in.
It's behind a pine tree on the south east side, 100% hidden from view.
I fucking hate this game. Now to go play it some more.
submitted by Chagdoo to FearAndHunger [link] [comments]
It's behind a pine tree on the south east side, 100% hidden from view.
I fucking hate this game. Now to go play it some more.