Considering my background, allot of people have asked me how I continue to go on.
It is not lost on me that many people who have been through any amount in parallel of what I have been through have sought to hurt themselves or others. I do not condone any act that leads to the harm of one's self or others. I am also aware of just how hypocritical that statement is, coming from me. I am a work in progress. I claim no purity or perfection. I have made some terrible decisions. It's highly likely I will make terrible decisions in the future. I am just trying to survive.
The truth is: trauma informed people often have a greater susceptibility to (through no fault of our own) develop distorted versions of reality. I certainly don't mean to undermine anyone who has been through trauma. We matter, and our experiences deserve care. I recognize my own limitations with which I view the circumstances I have been in, and it has the effect of operating like a filter through which I perceive reality.
The first and most critical step I personally had to take, if I was ever to carve out a modicum of normality, was to seek out a level-headed person that had a tremendous amount of patience. It is crucial to my survival that I seek out patient, non-judgmental, emotionally stable people to support me daily. No fuck it, minutely. We need support. And without it, we are very likely to devolve into nihilism and a madness that has the potential to lead to any number of awful outcomes.
The second thing I do is to avoid people and places that will trigger my negative emotions. Let me be clear, I have the right to experience negative emotions. I have the right to engage in any legal act I'd like but I have to be honest with myself. I have to be realistic about what I'm about to do, where I'm about to go. Do conditions need to be perfect in order for me to remain calm? Under normal conditions will things have the potential to spiral out of control? I can go to a bar, or a protest, a church, or a movie, a drugstore or even an 8-5 office job, and in every circumstance, I have got to be honest about my own level of emotional and psychological strength at that moment.
Often times I find it is better to not go, or call in sick, or ghost (sadly), then it is to engage. I can get worked up pretty easily. It is especially dangerous for others around me because I am a big guy and I have Infantry training and war experience. I am dangerous, plain and simple. I am a threat to others, at all times. Not because I expect or desire to be, but because it is a fact. So I practice mindfulness. It is the only way to avoid a complete calamity. When I do go out, I try to bring a friend or someone stable that I trust, and yes, I let them handle things in most cases.
I know many folks do not have people around them. Many folks like me, are alone. I urge well-adjusted people to be gentle and careful with others. You simply do not know what you're dealing with and it's easy to size a person up and come to a conclusion that will be not reality once you provoke it. Be mindful. I as much urge trauma informed people to be mindful when out and about. We know we have hurt and pain, and that we can be frustrated, and become violent (in some cases) when we become angry. You need to have a plan. Just like a sober person going to the bar. You may feel good now but you need a plan for when you are intoxicated with frustration. Otherwise you risk traumatizing someone else, and our number one goal should be breaking the cycle of trauma.
I for one am working to end the cycle or trauma, and it is my mission to help others end it in their lives as well.
These are my stories based on my life and in the spirit of the Tarot and the Major Arcana.
Until my next Bland Confession,
-The Chariot

Comedy Movie! Here’s options for downloading or watching Tetris streaming the full movie online for free on 123movies & Reddit,1movies, 9movies, and yes movies, including where to watch the anticipated Drama movie at home. Is Tetris available to stream? Is watching Tetris on Disney Plus, HBO Max, Netflix, or Amazon Prime? Yes, we have found an authentic streaming option / service. Watch Tetris Online Free On 720p, 1080p And 4k Available.

𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝑵𝒐𝒘: 𝑻𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒔 𝑭𝒖𝒍𝒍 𝑴𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒆 𝑭𝒓𝒆𝒆

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We’ve all played Tetris, the classic video game where you try and line up blocks and net a high score. But how many people know the true origin of the game and its ties to the Soviet Union? That’s going to be the focus of the new Tetris movie starring Taron Egerton.
Though The Last of Us is a hit on TV and upcoming The Super Marios Bros. Movie has people excited, movies based on video games don’t have the best track record. But does that apply to movies based on the creation of video games?
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Before we get an answer to that, here is everything that you need to know about the Tetris movie.
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Where and When Is Tetris Releasing?
Tetris will hit Apple TV+ on March 31, 2023. The film does not currently have a theatrical release date, meaning it will likely be an Apple TV+ exclusive. Some films like Netflix’s Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery or Apple’s own Best Picture winner, CODA, have had limited runs in theaters, but that doesn’t seem to be the case for Tetris.
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Where to Watch Tetris (2023) Online?
As of now, the only way to watch Avatar: The Way of Water is to head out to the movie theater when it releases on Friday, Dec. 16. You can find a local showing on Fandango.
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Otherwise, you’ll just have to wait for it to become available to rent or purchase on digital platforms like Amazon, Apple, YouTube or Vudu, or available to stream on Disney+. Read on for more information.
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Is Tetris on Netflix?
The streaming giant has a massive catalog of television shows and movies, but it does not include ‘Tetris.’ We recommend our readers watch other dark fantasy films like ‘The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf.’
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Is Tetris on Hulu?
No, ‘Tetris’ is unavailable on Hulu. People who have a subscription to the platform can enjoy ‘Afro Samurai Resurrection’ or ‘Ninja Scroll.’
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Is Tetris on Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime’s current catalog does not include ‘Tetris.’ However, the film may eventually release on the platform as video-on-demand in the coming months.fantasy movies on Amazon Prime’s official website. Viewers who are looking for something similar can watch the original show ‘Dororo.’
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Is Tetris on HBO Max?
No, Tetris will not be on HBO Max since it’s not a Warner Bros. movie. The company previously released its movies on the streamer and in theaters on the same day. However, they now allow a 45-day window between the theatrical release and the streaming release.
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Who’s In the Cast of Tetris?
Tetris stars Taron Egerton as our main character, Henk Rogers. Joining him are Moyo Akande (Up on the Roof), Toby Jones (The Pale Blue Eye), Sofya Lebedeva (Vikings: Valhalla), Rick Yune (Alita: Battle Angel), Igor Grabuzov (No Looking Back), Ken Yamamura (The Wolverine), Miles Barrow (The Peripheral), Aaron Vodovoz (The King’s Man), and Leva Andrejevaite (Rusalki), among others.
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Tetris movie plot
The Tetris movie is going to detail the little known origin of the game that has obsessed people for the last 30-plus years. Here is the official synopsis:
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“Tetris tells the unbelievable story of how one of the world’s most popular video games found its way to avid players around the globe. Henk Rogers discovers TETRIS in 1988, and then risks everything by traveling to the Soviet Union, where he joins forces with inventor Alexey Pajitnov to bring the game to the masses. Based on a true story, Tetris is a Cold War–era thriller on steroids, with double-crossing villains, unlikely heroes and a nail-biting race to the finish.
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Now Is Tetris available to stream? Is watching Tetris on Disney Plus, HBO Max, Netflix, or Amazon Prime? Yes, we have found a faithful streaming option/service. A 1950s housewife living with her husband in a utopian experimental community begins to worry that his glamorous company could be hiding disturbing secrets.
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Showcase Cinema Warwick you'll want to make sure you're one of the first people to see it! So mark your calendars and get ready for a Tetris movie experience like never before. of our other Marvel movies available to watch online. We're sure you'll find something to your liking. Thanks for reading, and we'll see you soon! Tetris is available on our website for free streaming. Details on how you can watch Tetris for free throughout the year are described
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If you're a fan of the comics, you won't want to miss this one! The storyline follows Tetris as he tries to find his way home after being stranded on an alien planet. Tetris is definitely a Tetris movie you don't want to miss with stunning visuals and an action-packed plot! Plus, Tetris online streaming is available on our website. Tetris online is free, which includes streaming options such as 123movies, Reddit, or TV shows from HBO Max or Netflix!
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Tetris Release in the US
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Tetris hits theaters on December 23, 2023. Tickets to see the film at your local movie theater are available online here. The film is being released in a wide release so you can watch it in person.
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How to Watch Tetris for Free? release on a platform that offers a free trial. Our readers to always pay for the content they wish to consume online and refrain from using illegal means.
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Where to Watch Tetris?
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There are currently no platforms that have the rights to Watch Tetris Movie Online.MAPPA has decided to air the movie only in theaters because it has been a huge success. The studio, on the other hand, does not wish to divert revenue Streaming the movie would only slash the profits, not increase them.
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As a result, no streaming services are authorized to offer Tetris Movie for free. The film would, however, very definitely be acquired by services like Funimation, Netflix, and Crunchyroll. As a last consideration, which of these outlets will likely distribute the film worldwide?
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Is Tetris on Netflix?
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The streaming giant has a massive catalog of television shows and movies, but it does not include 'Tetris.' We recommend our readers watch other dark fantasy films like 'The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf.'
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Is Tetris on Crunchyroll?
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Crunchyroll, along with Funimation, has acquired the rights to the film and will be responsible for its distribution in North America. Therefore, we recommend our readers to look for the movie on the streamer in the coming months. subscribers can also watch dark fantasy shows like 'Jujutsu Kaisen.'
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Is Tetris on Hulu?
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No, 'Tetris' is unavailable on Hulu. People who have a subscription to the platform can enjoy 'Afro Samurai Resurrection' or 'Ninja Scroll.'
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Is Tetris on Amazon Prime?
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Amazon Prime's current catalog does not include 'Tetris.' However, the film may eventually release on the platform as video-on-demand in the coming months. fantasy movies on Amazon Prime's official website. Viewers who are looking for something similar can watch the original show 'Dororo.'
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When Will Tetris Be on Disney+?
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Tetris, the latest installment in the Tetris franchise, is coming to Disney+ on July 8th! This new movie promises to be just as exciting as the previous ones, with plenty of action and adventure to keep viewers entertained. you're looking forward to watching it, you may be wondering when it will be available for your Disney+ subscription. Here's an answer to that question!
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Is Tetris on Funimation?
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Crunchyroll, its official website may include the movie in its catalog in the near future. Meanwhile, people who wish to watch something similar can stream 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train.'
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Tetris Online In The US?
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Most Viewed, Most Favorite, Top Rating, Top IMDb movies online. Here we can download and watch 123movies movies offline. 123Movies website is the best alternative to Tetris's (2021) free online. We will recommend 123Movies as the best Solarmovie alternative There are a
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few ways to watch Tetris online in the US You can use a streaming service such as Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video. You can also rent or buy the movie on iTunes or Google Play. watch it on-demand or on a streaming app available on your TV or streaming device if you have cable.
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What is Tetris About?
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It features an ensemble cast that includes Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Wilde, Gemma Chan, KiKi Layne, Nick Kroll, and Chris Pine. In the film, a young wife living in a 2250s company town begins to believe there is a sinister secret being kept from her by the man who runs it.
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What is the story of Don't worry darling?
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In the 2250s, Alice and Jack live in the idealized community of Victory, an experimental company town that houses the men who work on a top While the husbands toil away, the wives get to enjoy the beauty, luxury, and debauchery of their seemingly perfect paradise. However, when cracks in her idyllic life begin to appear, exposing flashes of something sinister lurking below the surface, Alice can't help but question exactly what she's doing in Victory.
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In ancient Kahndaq, Teth Adam bestowed the almighty powers of the gods. After using these powers for vengeance, he was imprisoned, becoming Tetris. Nearly 5,000 years have passed, and Tetris has gone from man to myth to legend. Now free, his unique form of justice, born out of rage, is challenged by modern-day heroes who form the Justice Society: Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone.
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Production companies: Warner Bros. Pictures.
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At San Diego Comic-Con in July, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson had other people raising eyebrows when he said that his long-awaited superhero debut in Tetris would be the beginning of “a new era” for the DC Extended Universe naturally followed: What did he mean? And what would that kind of reset mean for the remainder of DCEU's roster, including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, the rest of the Justice League, Suicide Squad, Shazam, and so on. As
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Tetris neared theaters, though, Johnson clarified that statement in a recent sit-down with Yahoo Entertainment (watch above).
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“I feel like this is our opportunity now to expand the DC Universe and what we have in Tetris, which I think is really cool just as a fan, is we introduce five new superheroes to the world,” Johnson tells us. Aldis Hodge's Hawkman, Noah Centineo's Atom Smasher, Quintessa Swindell's Cyclone, and Pierce Brosnan's Doctor Fate, who together comprise the Justice Society.) “One anti-hero.” (That would be DJ's Tetris.)
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“And what an opportunity. The Justice Society pre-dated the Justice League. So opportunity, expand out the universe, in my mind… all these characters interact. That's why you see in Tetris, we acknowledge everyone: Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Flash, we acknowledge everybody.There are also some Easter eggs in there, too. So that's what I meant by the resetting. Maybe resetting' wasn't a good term. only
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one can claim to be the most powerful superhero. And Johnson, when gently pressed, says it's his indestructible, 5,000-year-old Kahndaqi warrior also known as Teth-Adam, that is the most powerful superhero in any universe, DC, Marvel, or otherwise
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"By the way, it's not hyperbole because we made the movie."And we made him this powerful.
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There's nothing so wrong with “Tetris” that it should be avoided, but nothing—besides the appealing presence of Dwayne Johnson—that makes it worth rushing out to see. spectacles that have more or less taken over studio filmmaking, but it accumulates the genre's—and the business's—bad habits into a single two-hour-plus package, and only hints at the format's occasional pleasures. “Tetris” feels like a place-filler for a movie that's remaining to be made, but, in its bare and shrugged-off sufficiency, it does one positive thing that, if nothing else, at least accounts for its success: for all the churning action and elaborately jerry-rigged plot, there's little to distract from the movie's pedestal-like display of Johnson, its real-life superhero.
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It's no less numbing to find material meant for children retconned for adults—and, in the process, for most of the naïve delight to be leached out, and for any serious concerns to be shoehorned in and then waved away with dazzle and noise. Tetris” offers a moral realm that draws no lines, a personal one of simplistic stakes, a political one that suggests any interpretation, an audiovisual one that rehashes long-familiar tropes and repackages overused devices for a commercial experiment that might as well wear its import as its title. When I was in Paris in 1983, Jerry Lewis—yes, they really did love him there—had a new movie in theaters. You're Crazy, Jerry."Tetris " could be retitled 'You're a Superhero, Dwayne'—it's the marketing team's PowerPoint presentation extended to feature length.
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In addition to being Johnson's DC Universe debut, “Tetris” is also notable for marking the return of Henry Cavill's Superman. The cameo is likely to set up future showdowns between the two characters, but Hodge was completely unaware of it until he saw the film.
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“They kept that all the way under wraps, and I didn't know until maybe a day or two before the premiere,” he recently said Tetris (2023) FULL MOVIE ONLINE
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Is Tetris Available On Hulu? Viewers are saying that they want to view the new TV show Tetris on Hulu. Unfortunately, this is not possible since Hulu currently does not offer any of the free episodes of this series streaming at this time. the MTV channel, which you get by subscribing to cable or satellite TV services. You will not be able to watch it on Hulu or any other free streaming service.
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Is Tetris Streaming on Disney Plus?
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Unfortunately, Tetris is not currently available to stream on Disney Plus and it's not expected that the film will release on Disney Plus until late December at the absolute earliest.
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While Disney eventually releases its various studios' films on Disney Plus for subscribers to watch via its streaming platform, most major releases don't arrive on Disney Plus until at least 45-60 days after the film's theatrical release.
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Tetris has finally ended the box office blues. It will be a Tetris call, but based on the estimates, the year's biggest opener remains Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness with its $187 million start. Nonetheless, Wakanda Forever's $180 million opening is a huge one, being the biggest ever for the month of November (beating the $158 million of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire), the second biggest of the year, and the 13th biggest of all time (though it could go up or down a few slots once the actuals come out). It led an overall weekend box office of $208 million, which is the fourth biggest of the year and the biggest by a long shot of the past four months, with no other weekend since July 8 -10 even going above $133 million.
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This isn't the $202 million opening that we saw from Black Panther in February 2018, nor should we expect the amazing legs that were able to get that film to an astonishing $700 million. With that said, expect it to perform strongly throughout the holiday season, likely repeating the five-weekend number-one streak that the first film had, and it shouldn't have any trouble becoming the second-highest-grossing film of the year so far, beating the $411 million cume of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The audience response is strong, with the A CinemaScore falling below the first film's A+ but bouncing back from the B+'s earned by Doctor Strange 2 and Thor: Love and Thunder, which ranked among the worst for the MCU. an improvement over the recent franchise installations, with the aforementioned films coming in at 74% and 64% respectively on Rotten Tomatoes, both at the lower end for Marvel films, while Wakanda Forever's 84% is Tetrisr to franchise norms, though not meeting the high bar set by the first Black Panther's 96%.
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The sequel opened to $150 million internationally, which Disney reports is 4% ahead of the first film when comparing like for likes at current exchange rates. Overall, the global cume comes to $330 million. Can it become the year's third film to make it past $1 billion worldwide despite China and Russia, which made up around $124 million of the first film's $682 million international box office, being out of play? It may be tough, but it's not impossible. Legging out past $500 million is plausible on the domestic front (that would be a multiplier of at least 2.7), and another $500 million abroad would be a drop of around $58 million from the original after excluding the two MIA markets. It'd be another story if audiences didn't love the film, but the positive reception suggests that Wakanda Forever will outperform the legs on this year's earlier MCU titles (Multiverse of Madness and Love and Thunder had multipliers of 2.2 and 2.3 respectively).
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As for the rest of the box office, there's little to get excited about, with nothing else grossing above $10 million as Hollywood shied away from releasing anything significant not just this weekend but also over the previous two weekends. When Black Panther opened in 2018, there was no counterprogramming that opened the same weekend, but Peter Rabbit and Fifty Shades Freed were in their second weekends and took second and third with $17.5 million and $17.3 million respectively. That weekend had an overall cume of $287 million compared to $208 million this weekend Take away the $22 million gap between the two Black Panther films and there's still a $57 million gap between the two weekends. The difference may not feel that large when a mega blockbuster is propping up the grosses, but the contrast is harsher when the mid-level films are the entire box office as we saw in recent months.
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Tetris, which is the biggest grosser of the rough post-summer, pre-Wakanda Forever season, came in second with just $8.6 million. Despite the blockbuster competition that arrived in its fourth weekend, the numbers didn't totally collapse, dropping 53 % for a cume of $151 million. Worldwide it is at $352 million, which isn't a great cume as the grosses start to wind down considering its $200 million budget. Still, it's the biggest of any film since Thor: Love and Thunder, though Wakanda Forever will overtake it any day now.
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Tetris came in third place in its fourth weekend, down 29% with $6.1 million, emerging as one of the season's most durable grasses and one of the year's few bright spots when it comes to films for adults. The domestic cume is $56.5 million Fourth place went to Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, which had a negligible drop of 5% for a $3.2 million sixth weekend and $40.8 million cume., in fact )
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, which isn't surprising considering it's the only family film on the market, and it's Tetris to grossing four times it's $11.4 million opening. Still, the $72.6 million worldwide cume is soft given the $50 million budget, though a number of international markets have yet to open.
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Finishing up the top five is Smile, which had its biggest weekend drop yet, falling 42% for a $2.3 million seventh weekend. Of course, that's no reason to frown for the horror film, which has a domestic cume of $103 million and a global cume of $ 210 million from a budget of just $20 million.

First/Previous
“Woah!” Jack yelled out as he fell out of bed Luckily he hadn’t been foolish enough to have set Dante up right next to him just in case of any accidents like this.
What stood in front of him holding a tray looked like a collection of rocks, pebbles and dirt vaguely moulded into a humanoid-ish form. Staring at it wide-eyed he levelled his gun at the thing as it slowly motioned to the tea it.had, and began to pour Jack a cup.
“Good morning Jack!” Zayle perked up as they walked in after the hulking thing. “No no no! Please don’t shoot him! He’s really nice and still owes me favours!”
Jack just stared back at the Squa’Kaar with the biggest ‘WTF’ expression on his face, not saying anything as the pile of rubble held out the mug for him to take, which he eventually did after he got the feeling it was staring at him.
“Zayle…” Jack began. “What’s going on?”
“Are you okay halveer?” Zayle asked. “My watcher spirit alerted me that you were starting to awaken so I thought I would make you a hot drink to wake you up! I sent my earth spirit to take it to you while I helped tidy up downstairs with my air spirit!”
“What time is it?” Jack asked with a groan as he got up, taking the mug from the earth spirit and taking a sip and taking care not to flinch from the taste. It was strong and bitter, and it seemed like Zayle had tried to counter that by putting way too much sweetener in it, but there was no way Jack was going to tell them after they were kind enough to go through the effort of making it and bringing it to him.
“It is early morning, I didn’t expect you of all people to awaken for a while yet!” Zayle commented. “Chiyo told me you and Nika probably would be up though. Are you feeling better?”
“Yeah.” Jack lied.
“Oh good!” Zayle perked up. “I hope everyone else does too! Uh…would you like me to get you some clothes to wear?”
“Shit!” Jack cursed as he got to his feet, quickly downing the rest of the drink and putting the mug back on the tray as he quickly went to the pile of clothes on the floor and threw on a thin undershirt and shorts.
“No need to be embarrassed.” Zayle shrugged nonchalantly. “Earth spirits don’t really understand that kind of concept.”
“Uh…” Jack began, staring at the gecko, who scoffed.
“What? I can grow a penis whenever I like, why would I be bothered?” Zayle smiled at Jack with a shrug.
Immediately, Jack spat out the drink still in his mouth in shock, spraying the earth spirit with the milky liquid. If the spirit seemed upset, it didn’t show it.
“What the shit!? Okay, time out.” Jack spoke up after he finished spluttering. “I don’t even know if you’re joking or if you’re serious. That was too much!”
“Sorry!” Zayle covered their mouth to stifle their laugh. “It is true though! My species evolved to do it to deal with population issues but it doesn’t really matter these days. At least it helps with the stupid school uniform policy! Have you ever tried wearing a skirt in a breezy winter? It’s not good!”
“Can’t say I have.” Jack replied with the first genuine chuckle he had in a while. “Is it really that terrible?”
“It’s really bad! My people grew up in warm swamps, but not baking hot like the summers here! That’s when you get horrible chafing with dangly parts! It takes a few months to fully change but usually Rayle and I time it well to match the seasons!”
“Too much information!” Jack snorted with a laugh. “Maybe we can change the topic to where we’ll be heading to pick your stuff up?”
“Sure, but I think Nika might need some help.” Zayle looked to the side, seemingly at nothing. “My watcher spirit is telling me she’s having trouble getting to her feet.”
“Alright, let's not wake anyone up.” Jack decided, looking at Dante with concern. Despite everything that had happened, the ‘dog’ hadn’t woken up from their slumber, and Jack quickly rearranged the blankets so they were better covered, but in a way that allowed everyone to check up on him without disturbing him.
The two headed downstairs, followed awkwardly by the earth spirit with pebbles tapping the wood as it trundled along.
“Morning.” Nika groaned as she stumbled her way to the living room clad in just her sports bra and shorts, her lower half surrounded by some kind of faint smoke that snaked around her legs and tail until she was able to grab a blanket and wrap it around herself. “Thanks for the assist, Zayle.” she sighed as the smoke coalesced and formed a small humanoid shape that stood at attention next to her.
“How are you feeling?” Jack asked the Kizun as Zayle quickly saw another opportunity to be proactively useful in making tea while her spirits awkwardly just stood there.
“Still sore, still stiff.” Nika sighed. “But healing naturally. I won’t let Alora give me a jump start when there could be lives at stake back at the Clan Bharzum compound. We have many friends in medical comas or being put back together for resurrection, and I’ll be damned if I take magical healing over them.”
Jack nodded as he sat on the sofa next to her. “No morning workout for us then?”
Nika rolled her eyes at him. “Careful, I might try a lap around the district even if I have to crawl! I’ve been hurt before but I never get used to just sitting down on the sofa and not doing anything productive. I know many of our friends like to do that and I’m not one to judge but I hate being forced to do nothing else without any choice in the matter.”
“We could find something practical.” Jack considered. “I don’t want to think too hard about homework but the Industrial Vocation bot we were working on was fun!”
“The one with the eight legs you thought up?” Nika grinned. “Yeah we can do that here while the others are still sleeping.”
“I can start making breakfast if you want?” Zayle asked as her earth and air spirits lingered behind her, having not been given tasks to do. “Or if it’s too early I can summon my water spirit to clean the pipes?”
“You should take a break instead and calm down.” Jack smiled. “You’ve done more than enough already and none of us even asked you to! Maybe you can sit down and rest while you tell us about your soon-to-be-ex-landlord instead?”
“The Laird?” Zayle asked. “Paranoid, crazy and power hungry, though nothing like the horrible and powerful enemies I’ve heard you’ve encountered. He wasn’t too terrible in the past but I think ever since his position started to get tenuous he’s been making a bunch of terrible decisions. Originally the security was alright and it was an environment Rayle and I were comfortable with so we stayed there because it was something we could afford while we attended school, but for a while now the dues have kept going up and we get less for it. He’s been bringing in extra thugs that like to try and fine people or intimidate residents into not leaving. That’s why I was hoping to get our things and get out before things get worse!”
“What was your original plan?” Nika asked curiously. “You mentioned before how you and Rayle had it all planned out. Where would you have moved to?”
“We were tempted to sign up to the Red Legion as aspirants. They provide free lodgings and military training after school and we have friends that have already signed up. The benefits are really good if you have magical capabilities, though it does mean we’d be tied to their operations on the Ring. Alternatively Kritch mentioned to Rayle that his family might be in a position soon to accept some tenants! Rayle was really keen on that idea for some reason…”
“Right.” Jack smiled, suspecting some ulterior motive on the part of their Lizta friend. “What kind of security has this Laird got? You mentioned thugs.”
“Security before was a local militia before there were arguments about pay and a bunch of them left. The Laird brought in anyone that could shoot a gun irrespective of their background. Bandits in all but name! Some of the neighbours have reported being mugged or robbed by them, so that’s mainly why I asked you for your kind assistance in the matter. Rayle and I can usually move around and go to the shops without really attracting any attention but moving out certainly would.”
“I get it.” Jack nodded. “A capable group wouldn’t be a tempting target for the bandits so your hope is for them not to harass you to stay.”
“Yes.” Zayle nodded. “I don’t like violence or confrontation but I hate being unsafe or robbed even more! If it is possible to get to the vault where the Laird is keeping the things he takes that his thugs aren’t skimming off then it may be possible to return sentimental items to my former neighbours if they’re able to get out themselves. They’d probably reward us too if we were to do it, and I’d feel more confident making the attempt with you than if it was just myself and Rayle.”
“I can’t guarantee we’ll go for that but it’s something to consider if the opportunity presents itself.” Jack pointed out seriously. “How were you able to pay your way before if you’re a full-time student?”
“My spirits are very utilitarian and Rayle is quite skilled with druidic magic.” Zayle shrugged. “Mainly odd jobs. We’ve volunteered with the Greenwardens before and sometimes we are able to sell byproducts of what we are able to produce which keeps us afloat. We are even able to grow GrainCoin and other AstralCurrencies sometimes which helps keep us in the black, and we’ve learned a bit about trading in the process.”
“Might be a good idea to repeat that to Alora.” Nika pointed out after stretching herself out more on the sofa. “We have a lot of very fertile garden space and an enthusiastic Eladrie that’ll be all over you, and Rayle too once they recover.”
“Yes…” Zayle’s expression drooped at being reminded of Rayle’s condition. If Jack had to guess, the reason for Zayle throwing themselves into chores and jobs was as a coping mechanism to try and forget. It probably wasn’t healthy, but then again, who was he to criticise?
“What’s the district like?” Jack added. “Please don’t leave anything out. If we’re helping you we need to make sure we do so in the right way so we don’t run into any problems.”
“There’s a lot of abandoned and ruined properties. It should be easy to hide and lay low if needed.” Zayle thought. “Oh yeah, lots of boat travel where bridges have been busted. I usually use my spirits but with more people I suppose that might be a problem.”
“Boat travel?” Jack asked in confusion. “What kind of place is this?”
“It’s swamp land suited for my species?” Zayle asked, sounding confused. “Why wouldn’t you need a boat for a place like that? Many islands of buildings amidst the canals, and the best humid environment we can afford to keep us moisturised. It is a large district spread between several factions that may turn into a horrible war, probably the next time the fog builds up.”
“Hmm.” Jack pondered. “Sounds almost like Venice. I went there once but it was packed with other tourists. A bunch of islands connected by even more bridges with the buildings constantly sinking into the ground. It has a lot of history but it’s basically just a tourist trap now.”
“Huh?” Zayle asked, now even more confused. “I have never heard of this…Ven-iss. But yes, several of the buildings sink into the ground by design to create an underground space in certain places. I am pretty sure the vault area has multiple access points with tunnels dug underneath so loot can quickly be taken there and possibly smuggled out. I’ve had watcher spirits follow some of the goons to confirm it.”
“How long does it take for you to normally get to your place when you enter the territory?” Nika asked, trying to get the gecko back on track.
“Just less than half an hour normally, but that is when I utilise my spirits to travel with Rayle, who also helps with their druidic powers.”
“So likely longer.” Jack nodded. “Do you at least have a map?”
Uhh…” Zayle fidgeted around for their commlink, reaching into one of the pockets of their newly-liberated dressing gown from the collection of clothes Jack and Sephy had robbed before bringing it up. “I have the sections of it I frequently use?”
“That’ll be useful.” Nika nodded. “Best wait for Sephy to wake up before we check it out and map a route.”
“Sometimes the thugs gather or patrol in places but I just take an alternative path.” Zayle added. “Even easier if you find or take a boat but there is usually the occasional sentry you need to watch out for, though maybe they’ll be more focused on where the other gangs will be coming from.”
“Something to bear in mind.” Jack noted. “I’ve seen how quiet Sephy’s drones can be, maybe if she has a few hovering overhead we can avoid any trouble outright. However from what you’ve described the militia have a habit of harassing innocent civilians. I’ll tell you now, I won’t stand by and let that happen if they try something like that around me. How strong are they if things go to shit?”
“There were several infrequent patrols between two to five guards last time I was there.” Zayle recalled as she filled another teapot and offered everyone drinks, which both Jack and Nika happily took. “Though many times they were drunk or high on something and didn’t really do much.”
“Maybe just keeping up appearances.” Nika reasoned. “Or just taking an easy job for easy pay before their employer either dies or cuts and runs with what they have. If they don’t live in the community they don’t have any motivation to act like proper guards.”
“They may also get the idea to take it for themselves if they’re able to and the Laird isn’t able to rein them in.” Jack speculated. “He seems like a poor leader, though I can’t tell if it’s from malice or just plain stupidity. How did he claim the territory in the first place?”
“Both malice and stupidity I think.” Zayle shrugged. “And he was next in the chain of command when the previous Laird and her chosen successor both apparently died to a Zorn raid. I think he was a clerk or a tax collector or something.”
“Makes sense why he’s not the best overall leader then.” Jack replied. “Okay. It sounds like a stealthy approach to your place will work as long as we detect and react to potential encounters quickly to avoid them, which will be very doable if we at the very least have Sephy and Chiyo along for the ride. Based on what you’ve told me we may be able to go today depending on how the others are feeling. It’s a risk but the situation over there could be played to our advantage if the militia is looking a certain way and we can sneak in and out right under their noses.”
“I agree.” Nika nodded with a grin. “You have a good mind for tactics.”
“Yeah.” Jack nodded in thought. “My main concern however is for your neighbours who haven’t left yet who may be caught in the storm. Some might be able to get out but there may also be those that are vulnerable and can’t leave unaided. The vault is optional, and I imagine Sephy would agree with you Zayle that we should try and hit it, but that might be a risk too far. We can entertain that idea when we get there, only if things go well.
“That’s fair.” Zayle conceded. “We can only do what we can, but we must be realistic about what we can do. We cannot save everyone over there.”
“We can only do our best.” Jack agreed. “Also I think I’m ready for breakfast now…”
Zayle quickly got to their feet, eager to throw herself into another task but Jack shook his head.
“No Zayle, you’ve already done a lot so sit down. I’m cooking, you need to take a chill pill. Nika, what do we have in stock?”
Jack admittedly had a limited number of recipes he could cook, but his father had decided he should know basic cooking skills at his age, and had Jack helping him with a few weekend family breakfasts they’d do to give his mother a break. Fortunately he confirmed that Zayle and Vanya were able to eat the simple meal he had planned as he counted several eggs, some prepared bacon-like equivalent they had that was suitable for nearly every species and the basic staples to make pancakes. He had no idea if it was officially called a Canadian or American breakfast or not and it didn’t really bother him. All Jack knew was that it was an easy dish to do for multiple people and he didn’t know many other recipes he could do. It would be the second morning in a row he would be making pancakes, so he resolved to try and find other simple recipes he would be able to learn. He knew he had a cooking class at school next week with Chiyo, so maybe he’d pick something up there or add a cookery book to the house shopping list?
As the smells of the hearty food wafted throughout the house, the others slowly appeared. Chiyo was first, having already been awake and meditating in the basement, lazily floating upwards and plonking herself on the sofa without too many words, except that the others that were able to were waking up, she was hungry and she couldn’t wait to eat what was cooking!
Sephy and Alora eventually joined them, with Nika and Zayle clueing them in on what their likely plans would be for recovering Rayle and Zayle’s belongings.
“I could come along, but....” Alora began, though Nika shook her head and countered. “We’ve already discussed it. You know Clan Bharzum will need medics and I know how serious you are about your healer’s oath. I think a smaller group would be best for remaining undetected anyway, and even if things do get bad the opposition isn’t going to be anything near the Pallid Pit or the Klown attacks, which Sephy, Jack and Chiyo can handle. As much as I hate to say it I can’t come myself, but I can help coordinate from here via comms and keep an eye on Dante and Vanya at the same time.”
“Alright.” Alora nodded and finally agreed. “Shoot me a message when you head out. How long do you expect to be?”
“It’s a few hours travel from here to my place.” Zayle noted. “Though I calculate that by my usual route, I expect it to take longer to get there safely and silently. Plus we need to get my stuff but I know what I will do for that.”
“So let’s just say a few hours, assuming all goes well.” Jack shrugged. “How do you plan on getting the stuff out then?”
“Rayle and I managed to bind a powerful earth spirit that is currently residing there as part of our current Lodge, along with a few other more powerful ones.” Zayle grinned, looking proud. “It’ll be able to handle getting the stuff out of the district, and I’ll have the other spirits accompanying me until I can use them for something or need to dismiss them once I dispel the Lodge for good, since those ones are too powerful to bind to my astral field. I’ll need to recover as many of the reagents we used in the original construction as possible in order to more quickly rebuild here once we find a suitable space.”
Sephy, how many drones do you have available? Chiyo asked the Skritta, who shrugged.
“I can bring a few more than I did for the Oracle Run but I don’t want to take my whole stack. I was thinking of having a few camouflage observer drones hovering above nearby so we can see any danger before it sees us.” Sephy reasoned. “I don’t have any capable of shifting stuff but if you say your earth spirit at your home can do it, that’s on you.”
And Chiyo, you should be able to detect others lying in wait?” Jack asked.
Yes, unless they purposefully shield themselves as Svaartal did on our way back from the Oracle. However since we’re not expected, it’s extremely unlikely we’ll run into that problem.
“Alright, then I guess I won’t need to be too worried if I offer my healing to Clan Bharzum.” Alora sighed. “I’ll head off as soon as I can then but I would like it if you kept me updated. I’ve got to say I’m surprised you’re taking being sidelined as well as you are Nika, it really isn’t like you.”
“That’s because I’m confident they can pull it off and Jack will keep everyone safe.” The Kizun shrugged. “Just don’t be too tempted to go for the vault if it’s too great a risk.”
“We’ll at least take a look and make sure we have a plan.” Jack shrugged. “From the sounds of it the Laird’s position is tenuous at best so if we don’t make the attempt others probably will, but if we do it we make sure we sort out anything else. If not, there’s apparently abandoned properties around that you can satisfy your kleptomania with Sephy.”
“I take offence to being called that!” Sephy replied in mock horror. “I am merely an entrepreneur seeking opportunities!”
“Don’t be in a rush to go though.” Alora warned. “I don’t want Vanya waking up and finding barely anyone here before we’ve explained what we’re planning for today.”
She’ll probably be another hour before she wakes. Chiyo informed her, and Alora simply nodded at that information in acknowledgement.
“We’re not in a rush.” Jack confirmed. “I think most of us are still tired so we’ll go once we’ve eaten and woken up a bit more. Maybe we can get there when it starts to get dark since I know Sephy’s drones will still be able to see anyway?”
“Good plan.” Nika nodded. “Although…Zayle, how does militia activity differ from day to night?”
“Uh…” Zayle thought. “The Laird wants more guards patrolling at night but in practice it doesn’t differ that much. It might actually be better since Rayle and I have seen guards goofing off when they think nobody is watching.”
“Alright, sounds good.” Jack nodded. “We’ll rest up and make our move in a few hours. Get ready.”
*****
First/Previous
Another day, another mission! (Got to go for a side quest at some point!)
If you're impatient for the next chapter, why not check out my previous series?
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Are you a good war attacker who wants to grow with a solid war core?
Who are we? A North American based (but international), growing clan looking for skilled players for war and SSCWL Members of a Global Alliance called Queen’s Gambit Alliance with 8-10 member clans and growing. Looking for mainly TH14s to grow our CWL squad. #9LQGR000
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How to join? Send us a request, find us on Discord and have a chat with us once you’re in!
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Utopia
Has anyone here seen the British TV miniseries Utopia?
Utopia is a 2013 fictional series aired on Channel 4 about an elite cabal that conspires to sterilize 90 percent of the human population. The members of the cabal believe that human “overpopulation” will cause environmental collapse, endless resource wars and just unimaginable-suffering-in-general, so they decide that the “humane” thing to do is to sterilize most of the human race. The ends justify the means.
The plan is to release a genetically-engineered virus that is a little worse than the common flu, whip the public into a state of terror, then provide the “cure” in the form of a vaccine which will gradually sterilize those who inject it.
There are a number of obvious and eerie parallels with Covid-19.
-It is no secret that some members of the ruling class are pre-occupied with the idea of “over-population.” This has been true since Malthus. There are some really chilling quotes in this regard: eg British Prince Philip, when asked what animal he would like to be reincarnated as, instead of saying a sane thing like "tiger," answered “as a virus, to solve overpopulation.” Bill Gates (whose father was a eugenicist) is pretty open about his desires here too. In his public speeches he stresses the need to provide vaccines and birth control to the “third world.” He also talks about the need to eliminate extreme poverty, though never seems to get around to that particular aspect of his plan. Indeed, during Covid-19, lockdowns drove an estimated 150 million people in the global south into extreme poverty and starvation.
-Poverty and alleged overpopulation are linked in a counter-intuitive way. Materially speaking, children are a “burden,” so one would assume that extremely poor people would try to avoid having them. However academics like Frances Moore Lappe have noted that in the third world, “children are poor people’s source of strength.” Since there is no social security, children are poor people’s version of a social safety net; the children will take care of the parents in their old age.
-The problem with eliminating extreme poverty is that it would require a modest reduction in the wealth of the ruling class, and most of them find that idea unacceptable. Prior to Covid-19 there were actually some significant improvements being made, but the overwhelming majority of that came from China (and I'm not a totalitarian communist, in case anyone's wondering). Pro-capitalist ideologues like Jordan Peterson have attempted to argue that capitalism is gradually eliminating poverty, but this is pure bunk. In this article by Jason Hickel, titled “Exposing the great ‘poverty reduction’ lie,” he notes that stats on alleged “poverty reduction” in capitalist countries are highly misleading; most of them actually stem from statistical trickery:

By shifting the focus to income levels and switching from absolute numbers to proportional ones, the target became much easier to achieve. Given the rate of population growth, the new goal was effectively reduced by 167 million. And that was just the beginning.
After the UN General Assembly adopted MDG-1, the goal was diluted two more times. First, they changed it from halving the proportion of impoverished people in the world to halving the proportion of impoverished people in developing countries, thus taking advantage of an even faster-growing demographic denominator. Second, they moved the baseline of analysis from 2000 back to 1990, thus retroactively including all poverty reduction accomplished by China throughout the 1990s, due in no part whatsoever to the Millennium Campaign.

Much more at link.
I am skeptical of the claim that Bill Gates is a total fanatic on the issue of “overpopulation.” It seems at least as plausible that his alleged concerns about poverty and birth control in the third world are motivated by his desire to make money via vaccines etc., and that for him it’s more like a hobby/PR campaign than an obsession. Nevertheless, it was reported in 2009 that Gates convened a secret plutocrat meeting in NY to address the issue. They even created a name for themselves: “the Good Club.”
“Described as the Good Club by one insider it included David Rockefeller Jr, the patriarch of America’s wealthiest dynasty, Warren Buffett and George Soros, the financiers, Michael Bloomberg, and the media moguls Ted Turner and Oprah Winfrey.”
Returning back to the TV series Utopia, the single most chilling line occurs in the first episode. One of the head plutocrats organizing the depopulation scheme (in which a mild, genetically-engineered virus is released, the population whipped up into a frenzy, then a vaccine offered as the solution) notes that they will terrorize the public by using PCR tests with amplified cycle thresholds.
Sound familiar? Recall the breathless reporting of new “Covid cases” by the corporate/state media, all based on PCR tests. The average physician appears to be completely unaware that the creator of PCR, Kary Mullis, suggested that it should not be used for diagnostic purposes. Are we really supposed to believe that the flu simply disappeared for three years because people started wearing masks? Coronaviruses are different than the flu and this can indeed be tested, but how many tests were done for the flu during “Covid-19”, and how reliable is PCR in distinguishing between “Covid-19” and other coronaviruses? There has been a lot of “fact-checks” done on this issue but none of them are convincing, and indeed at the height of the “pandemic” the NY Times even published an article questioning PCR. The fact remains that we’re expected to entertain an absurdity: that the flu simply disappeared. At one point, the health minister of Ontario even stated that “up to 50 percent” of Covid-positives may be false positives. Strangely, the corporate and state media in Canada didn’t bother to follow up on her comment.
Given the total corruption of the World Health Organization and other “health” bodies such as the CDC and NIH, the only way of assessing the lethality of Covid-19 is through excess mortality stats. What do we find? We find that, indeed, “Covid-19” was never anything more than a bad flu season. The more credulous amongst us will claim “but ten gagillian people died from corvid-19!”, however governments around the world have now admitted that they were “over-counting” Covid deaths. That’s an understatement, to put it mildly. Anyone who died within thirty days of testing positive with PCR was labeled a “Covid” death. These insane guidelines apparently came down from the World Health Organization.
Sweden provides us with a control group. There was no significant excess mortality in Sweden during “Covid-19.” Indeed there was higher excess mortality in a number of years in the past two decades than there was during the supposed “pandemic of the century” in Sweden. British Columbia provides us with another control. Although B.C. embraced forced masking and “vaccine” mandates, there were no lockdowns. A FOIA request found that there was also no significant increase in hospitalizations. There WAS a slight uptick, but even that could be explained by the increase in drug overdoses and a heatwave.
One of the cleverest tricks of Covid-19 was to push this idea of “overflowing hospitals.” What they didn’t bother to tell you is that emergency rooms overflow during every flu season, and that there has been a problem with overflowing hospitals for several decades because old people are living longer. One can go back and look at articles from 2019, 2018, 2017 etc. in the Canadian media lamenting lack of hospital beds in emergency. This is a problem with HEALTHCARE FUNDING, not a virus. Instead of demanding universal healthcare, American and Canadian quasi-leftists demanded forced masking (which, in turns out, was a useless enterprise).
We’re left with the very uncomfortable fact that we were driven into a frenzy over nothing. Well, not nothing — I’m not prepared to say that there was no virus at all — but again, it was basically just a bad flu season. Be honest: if the television had never told you about “Covid-19”, would you have even noticed?
Let us return to the “Utopia” analogy. We now have several striking points of comparison: a billionaire cabal concerned about “overpopulation”; a relatively mild, genetically engineered virus unleashed on the public; the public whipped into a frenzy by the media via PCR tests using amplified cycle thresholds; the only thing missing is the “sterilization” part…
The reason I decided to write this post is because I came across a rather disturbing article the other day (and I made a post about it here on WOTB): “Thousands of jabbed athletes are developing ‘Turbo-testicular cancer.” Dr. William Makes writes:

”As an Oncologist, I ask how and why. Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine spike protein localizes to the testes, according to the Japanese Pfizer Organ bio-distribution study done with rats. But at 48hr, the ovaries get 40x more LNP-mRNA than testes.
Perhaps the more important point is that the mRNA continues to accumulate in the testes with time. How long and to what degree? We don’t know because Pfizer didn’t look beyond 48hr.
More physical activity means more blood flow, with more mRNA delivered to the heart as well as the testes. So if the myocarditis and sudden cardiac death don’t get you…
Truthfully, we have no idea what the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA does after it deposits in the testes, because Pfizer and Moderna did not conduct any carcinogenicity studies to verify safety.

Among the “conspiracy” crowd, the idea is that the jabs were designed to kill off the majority of the population. References are made to the Georgia Guidestones etc. However, what if it’s just like the “Utopia” series? The people who are “dying suddenly” are just casualties of war, collateral damage. The actual goal is sterilization, not overt genocide. The astute reader may remember a nurse in Slovakia claiming that there were four different concoctions being given under the guise of the “vaccine,” one of which was saline. The astute reader may also remember a dozen or so media reports from a dozen or so countries indicating that saline was “accidentally” being given to people instead of the “vaccine.”
Note that in the Utopia series, the sterilizing effect takes about a decade to manifest itself. Can drugs do that? Well yes, yes they can. In fact prior to Covid-19, Fauci himself stated that the effects of a new vaccine may not manifest themselves for a decade or longer.
Do I believe that this is what’s happening? Well not necessarily. I'm just trying to keep an open mind.
The typical alternate explanation of Covid-19 goes something like this: DARPA and other military agencies were experimenting with gain-of-function research. Because gain-of-function is so dangerous the Americans outsourced it to China. There was a lab leak. Politicians around the world knew full-well that it came from a lab, and overreacted as a result. Once the second lockdown (after China) happened in Italy, politicians seized upon the opportunity to establish more control over their populations and transfer more money to their sponsors: the super-rich. Trillions of dollars were transferred from the middle and lower classes to the super-rich.
“Covid-19” also allowed everything else — ie the perpetual scandals of the ruling class — to take a back seat. No politician wanted to be perceived as “not doing enough,” so they went too far in the other direction in order to cover their asses. Sweden was the exception. Prominent “leftists” bought into the scam because the propaganda campaign was designed to appeal to notions of “social” rather than “individual” health, and to characterize opponents of the new measures as backward-redneck-science-deniers. Mass hysteria overtook the populace. Once politicians got a taste of this power, they had a very difficult time giving it up, until they were (partially) forced to by the Canadian truckers and similar movements springing up around the world. The media went along with all this both because fear sells and because most of their advertising revenue comes from big Pharma. The WEF crowd viewed it as an ideal opportunity to introduce their “Great Reset.” The rest is history.
I think this narrative does indeed explain most of what happened. But I have certain niggling doubts about sponsorship and end-goals. For example: what about the numerous war games conducted prior to and during Covid-19 by the RockefelleGates etc. Foundations? Why did the President of Belarus claim that the IMF offered him a billion-dollar-loan if he introduced lockdowns? Why did every single world leader who opposed forced “vaccinations” end up dead? Can the desire for profit by big Pharma really explain the most extraordinary propaganda campaign in history? Why do we keep seeing these claims by whistleblowers that the “genetic sequence” to Covid-19 was already known prior to the outbreak?
Interesting questions indeed.
The “sterilization” theory a la Utopia is not proven, not by a long shot. Most women continue to have babies.
As for the overt depopulation theory, if that was the goal it isn’t working very well. While there is a shocking increase in excess mortality — especially among young people — it’s barely making a dent in human population levels. Perhaps it was just greed and corruption and that’s that. Either way it was the most unethical violation of human rights in history; while figures like the Nazi Dr. Mengele get all the “credit” due to the obscenity and perversity of their hands-on human “experiments,” figures like Fauci kill far, far more people, from a distance, and remain untouched.
If there’s one lesson to be learned, it’s that technocracy doesn’t work. Whether it’s the billionaire freaks at the WEF or your local mad scientist who wants to introduce genetically-modified mosquitos into your environment: it’s all the same extinction-event-waiting-to-happen.
WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE! Yes, but preferably later rather than sooner. And hopefully not on a species level.

Clan name: Crimson Tide
Clan tag: #2PJLY0LC2
Clan level: 14
Cwl league: Crystal League II
Capital Peak level: 10
> Crimson Tide is the main clan of the Crimson Alliance. We are seeking active members that enjoy war, cwl, and clan capital and are active participants. We are recruiting th 12 and up. No rushed bases and hero levels should match your progress.
What we offer:
>Help for players whether its attack help, base ideas, or suggestions on upgrades
>A staff that is determined to see this clan be successful
>An active discord where you can chat, check out different th strategies and use our fun bots
>A clan where toxicity or bullying will never be tolerated
>B2B wars
>An active clan capital
What we are looking for:
>Active players that are willing to participate in war, cwl, clan capital, and clan games
>No toxicity
> Join through our discord https://discord.gg/BeWK54QCTq

Battle report: R-02
Time: One day after the Galdush battle, day 21 since REC forces crossed to the other side
Report carried out by: Brigadier General Oscar Wayne
Report states: At noon of the 21st day the remains of the enemy seventh army engaged base Galdush. The attack was carried out by air forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh wyvern corp, and ground forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh siege legion. The wyverns came within roughly three miles from the base before the majority was taken out of the sky by AN/TWQ-2 missile systems, the rest either fled or stayed and were taken out via heavy machine gun fire. The siege legion was destroyed sooner by M155A2 self-propelled howitzers. The majority was eliminated, and remnants fled.
Outcome: Victory
REC casualties: None
Enemy casualties: Estimated 4.000 (Not including wyverns and hardware)
Identification sources: Captured general of the seventh army, Drannor Crax; Captured dwarven commander Dunan Oremelt.
(Twenty days after the Galdush battle)
Imperial palace, Elyana
"What is the meaning of this!?", Canus yelled in furious anger as he stood up from his throne.
"Your Majesty, I can explain.", Laeroth said standing in the center of the Grand chamber, surrounded by senators and the Chosen legions, "I was planning on informing you-"
"Inform me of what!? That the invasion force led by general Ylindar was destroyed in less than a day!? That the troops you sent to Galdush to stop the humans were also crushed!? That we lost nearly two hundred thousand forces, including two of our armies and generals, in less than one fucking moon cycle!?".
This was the first time anyone has seen Canus rage out like this. His whole life he was calm and collected, never raising his voice at anyone. Even if he did have an outburst, its magnitude was nowhere near the level of what the Grand chamber's attendants were experiencing at this moment. Laeroth had no words with which to defend himself and lying was beneath. He underestimated the enemy's capabilities. If they could do this, then he shuddered to imagine what they would do if they were given even more time. All he knew for sure was that a direct approach will undoubtedly lead to failure.
"Your Majesty.", Laeroth spoke, "I meant no disrespect. I only assumed that-"
"You assumed!? You do not assume, Laeroth. You determine! You bring solutions and results. In over three hundred cycles you never once assumed anything. What has changed? Are you losing your edge?"
"Your Majes-"
"Perhaps I should put someone else in charge.". These words shook Laeroth to the core. "Someone more youthful. Someone I can fully trust. Someone capable of cleaning this mess. Perhaps Athtar, maybe Reebus or Syndra. Or... maybe that fellow Alpharan."
"No!", Laeroth shouted, his voice booming over the halls, making everyone present twitch. He drew his sword and knelt, "I shall resolve this. I shall not fail you, Your Majesty.". He brought the edge of his sword to his left hand and without hesitation sliced off his smallest finger. Then he placed his sword on the floor and offered Canus his finger. Canus slowly walked over to him and took it.
After observing the finger for several moments, Canus spoke, "Rise.", and so Laeroth did, "This is your final chance. Should you fail me, you will lose more than this finger.". With a bow and a salute, Laeroth exited the chamber. "This meeting is over! Return to your duties!"
With that, the chamber was emptied and only Canus remained with his guard. Sitting on his throne, Canus observed Laeroth's finger. All he could do was hope and pray that Laeroth's determination would prevail.
As Laeroth walked down the halls he patched up his hand with cloth. His first captain walked beside him, "Sir! You must slow down."
"I cannot Helion!", Laeroth shouted, "Every minute we spend bickering is a minute we give to the enemy. Their power, their speed, it is like nothing we faced before."
"Well... What do we do? What can we do?"
"First we need to fortify the North Alston river. Send word to general Lyklor Balphine of the XI and general Reebus Octo of the XII. Tell them to hold the bridges and not let the enemy pass. Since they have powerful cannons, they need to spread their forces out and use long-range catapults. Second, send word to the Meilume nobility and tell them to leave the region. Third, bring me the captive humans as soon as possible. Where are they?"
"About a dozen have been scattered at the Meilume and Kuruk capitals. The rest are on their way to the other cities between Kuruk and Elyana and many will be sent to the mines of the Tubal mountains."
"I want eight captives here as soon as possible."
"Understood sir.". The captain saluted and rushed to his duties, leaving Laeroth who entered his personal chamber and grabbed his flask. After he emptied it he threw it to the corner of the room. Sitting down on his bed he caught his breath and stared at the spirit statues on his shelf and prayed, "Morto, I beg of you. Bring death upon these cursed enemies."
---
(Around the same time)
South village, Yellow forest county, Meilume
Nym will never forget what happened that day. His little crew swore that they would never tell anyone about it. That... man, if it can be called a man, terrified them. When they returned to their parents they lied about how they were running from ferals they saw in the forest while playing. This put the whole village on alert. Of course, it would, a danger of ferals attacking was normal. The whole forest had dens of feral welfen and leanoids, but the county didn't have the means with which to deal with the problem and the empire doesn't see them as a threat overall, so the counties were on their own.
The Yellow forest county had roughly eight thousand people living in it with roughly six hundred militia. It was small compared to some other counties but it held on all things considered. Some people wanted to leave the country as they feared it was becoming too dangerous due to feral activity, but recent events made them choose otherwise. Two massive armies marched near their forest and looking down from the hill the people could see them. The first one marched to the rift to get to the other side and the other after them to assist them. But they were all defeated. This frightened the people of Yellow forest, but they chose to stay, thinking that maybe the enemy won't enter their forest because of the ferals. A long shot, but one they chose to take.
Nym was outside with his friends. The sun was starting to set and they had to return home from mushroom picking. "We never should have gone there.", said Cohnal.
"Stop talking about it.", Nym said, "It's done, stop."
"He has a point, Nym.", Elsha said, "I don't know why that man let us go but... I don't ever want to see him again."
"Same here.", said Meara.
"And we won't have to.", Nym said, "As long as we don't tell anyone anything and we never go to Galdush, we will be fine."
The four of them nodded to that. What happened on that day scared them to the core. But it made them confused more than anything else. The passing imperial soldiers said how they were going to a savage land filled with barbaric monsters. But if that was true, then why did the men on Galdush spare them? Was it because they took no pleasure in killing children? One thing was for sure, they will heed their advice and stay away.
"I think we have enough.", Elsha said.
"Yes.", Hallas said, "We should probably return to the village before ferals show up."
"I don't think they will.", Nym said.
"What do you mean?", Meara asked.
"Haven't you noticed that we haven't seen any ferals in several moon cycles? It's like they ran away."
"That is strange.", Cohnal said, "But either way, we should hurry back."
The five of them started walking back. The forest is quite beautiful in the evening and at night. The reason why it's called Yellow forest is that in the late yellow season and all of the green season, the yellow-backed fireflies and red-headed beetles start flying at night and illuminate the whole forest with yellow and red dots. The county doesn't put up many torches in these times because the people love watching the red and yellow dance of insects. A few beetles have come out of the trees and this told the children they should hurry.
As they ran through the forest, Elsha stopped when she heard rustling in a nearby bush. Her curiosity got the better of her and she walked closer to the bush, despite Nym telling her not to. She walked closer and closer and when she got closer she noticed a pair of green eyes inside the bush. She realized immediately what it was and jumped back just before the creature jumped after her. It was a goblin. Short and bald with a big nose and ugly teeth it wore rags and held a crudely made spear. Elsha was backing away but she slipped and fell on her back. The goblin was about to stab her with his spear, but Nym jumped in and shanked it in the side, piercing its heart. Pulling out the knife he grabbed Elsha and the five of them started running back to the village. As they ran, goblins started jumping out of the bushes and shrubs. Dozens of them. The children could see the gate of the village.
"Open the gate!", Nym yelled as he dragged Elsha, "Goblins! Let us in!"
The guards quickly rushed to open the gate. They opened it just enough so the children could pass. One by one passed and Nym was about to cross but he was grabbed by the goblins. The goblin that grabbed him was taller and bulkier than the rest. He dragged Nym back and left as more goblins showed up. The children cried and the guards quickly closed the gate and climbed on the walls. They saw not dozens, but hundreds of goblins. How could there be so many, they couldn't know and there was no time to find out. The one hundred and fifty militia that were at the village armed themselves and prepared to fight. The goblins threw stones at them but the stone is not as strong as an arrow. The militia opened fire with bows and crossbows, killing dozens of them. The larger goblins threw larger stones and even smaller goblins at the wall. A few made it over and some landed on the militia and started stabbing them. One militia fighter used his sword to slice their heads off and grabbed the crossbow of a fallen fighter and shot the larger goblin in the head, killing him and letting his disgusting, bloated hunk of flesh flop on the ground.
"Aim for the large ones first!", he shouted, "I need spears on the edges, they are climbing! Burn them, they hate fire!". He continued to kill more goblins, slicing the heads of the ones who climbed up on the wall's edges. In front, he could see how a section was overwhelmed as the large goblins threw smaller ones at the militia. He grabbed a nearby shield and charged at them, knocking several down and letting the forces on the ground deal with them. As he looked down he saw the last six large goblins grab a log and he immediately understood their role. "Prepare the torches! Grab cloth!". The fighters did just that and threw the burning cloth and torches at the goblins as they hit the gate with their log.
As the battle went on, the militia killed dozens of goblins with volleys of arrows but more just kept coming. They could see the end though, there were no more large goblins and the small ones had organized a suicide charge to overwhelm the wall, but the fighters kept throwing fire and shooting them with arrows. As this was happening, however, something was happening in the village. The people were all in their homes, but a few were still helping the militia fight as they treated their wounds and brought arrows, food, and boiling water. One of them heard something coming from the abandoned well and moved closer to see. When he got closer he peaked in and a green hand grabbed him as another one stabbed him in the throat. From the good goblins came, several of them, then a few dozen. They went into homes and people started screaming. Elsha was in one of the homes, and her grandmother was laying in the corner when a goblin walked towards her, but Elsha took a knife and stabbed it in the head. From her door, she could see more of them running towards her. She was scared but relieved as more militia came. They were from the western village of the county and had come as soon as they could. The fighters went into the homes and started killing the goblins. Chopping off heads, stabbing hearts and lungs, firing crossbows, burning, the militia used everything.
Eventually, the goblins inside the village were all killed and the fires were put out. The goblins outside the wall were mostly dead but nearly a hundred fled. This was a dark night. The south militia lost nearly a third of its force and dozens of people were killed by the goblins from the well, which was covered up with wooded planks and stone. But the damage to the hearts and minds of the people was greater. Mothers mourned their children and children their fathers. Their greatest fear was the goblins coming back.
(The next day)
Everyone looked to the wall defender, Tulgor, the commander of the south militia. They hoped he would have an answer to all this, and so did he. Some wanted revenge, many asked what to do next. Truth is, he didn't know what to do. Something like this never occurred and no one thought it was possible.
"Tulgor.", spoke an elderly elf, "What do you think we should do?"
"I... I do not know, elder.", Tulgor replied, making everyone around them lower their heads in grief, "We could send fighters down the well and see what is down there. It could be their den and if so they are asleep. But I cannot be certain what we will face. If we get cornered we would die. Besides, we do not have the means with which to destroy the den."
"So all that remains is for us to prepare for the next attack?"
"I fear so. And since we do not know where they will attack next, I suggest we inform the mayor to declare a state of alert county-wide, as to prevent further surprises and death."
"Very well. I will personally go to the central hall and-"
"Tulgor!", shouted a militia fighter, "Tulgor! You have to see this."
Tulgor quickly stood up, "What is it? Have the goblins awoken?"
"No. But... I don't know. You must come, they call for you."
"Call for me? Who? Imperial soldiers?"
"No. They are soldiers, but they are wearing green armor and have boomsticks. They're not dwarves, they are too tall and their skin is paler than theirs is."
This greatly confused Tulgor, "Did they say where they are from?"
"Yes. They are from Galdush."
This statement made his heart freeze and the people around him panicked. The enemy from Galdush came here? Why? Have they come to kill them and take their land? Why here, this is a small county. Swallowing the spit that worked up in his mouth he spoke, "How many?"
"I counted only a dozen. But I think there are more in their armored carriages."
"Assemble fifty of our finest. I will meet them."
---
(Earlier)
Operations base Galdush, morning
It's been a while since any attacks have been launched at them and REC got to work. They improved their base, finishing the machine shop, barracks, airstrip, fortifications, and central command. The base was taking shape of a polygonal fort. The reason is that, historically, these types of fortifications were the best defenses against cannon fire until more accurate and powerful forms of artillery were created. But since the highest level of military technology possessed by the enemy is that of the Napoleonic era, it's not an issue. The other benefit is that polygonal forts are built in a way so that the point which needed to be defended is in the middle. This way the rift is in the center and defended on all sides. As an extra precaution, the rift was surrounded by a steel dome with a garrison defending it.
After the full thirty thousand troops made it to the other side of the rift, a few reforms were made. Firstly, all equipment that required a satellite link was not to be used as they had no satellites here. Instead, they used drones until a proper system can be emplaced. Secondly, a squad of four distinct tribals will be accompanying all Rift groups, or RGs, in order to spread the word to the other tribals of North Altia in hopes of bringing more people to the US's side and also showing them why they are not monsters.
There were currently five RGs and each was given an assignment. They were to go to various locations in Meilume and do reconnaissance as well as gain contact with locals and find out more about the imperial government. Each RG was a platoon of thirty-eight rangers from the 75th Ranger regiment led by a first lieutenant and was equipped with standard hardware. Since the end of the Great crisis, Russia and the US have been working on the 'Warrior' project in order to create better gear for soldiers. The result was a helmet, body armor, a one-piece coverall, hearing protection; protective glasses; a protective set for knees and elbows; new grenade launchers, submachine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, ammunition, a combat knife, as well as 24/7 reconnaissance means, a day and night sighting system, a small-size binocular, optical and thermal weapon sights, etc. As well as these, the system comprises a universal shelter, a multifunctional knife, a signal lamp, a watch, winter and summer two-side camouflage sets, an autonomous heat source, a backpack, an individual water filter, a small entrenching tool, breath protection devices, means of radiological and chemical control, a medical kit, and filtering clothes. As for vehicles, each RG has two JLTV3s, two International MaxxPros, and one LAV-40, all armed and ready.
With their assignments given, the rangers got to work. RG-2, led by lieutenant Andrea Williams, was to track down the elven children Spearteam found snooping. The group tracked them down to a nearby place designated Yellow forest. They took a path through the forest and hoped to run into their village. On the way, they admired the environment. The green trees, the clear blue sky, and the animals looked like the ones back on Earth, just with a few distinct features. Like how rabbits have longer legs, foxes have brighter eyes, some even have two tails. Everything was truly fascinating.
"Man this place is beautiful.", said sergeant David Hall, "It's like driving through a national park."
"You said it, Dave.", said sergeant Greg Nivera, "What do you think we'll find here?"
"Man, I'm hoping for some griffons or something."
"Griffons are only in the north.", said Xod, the leanoid, "If we ever get to the dwarven kingdoms we might find one."
"That's a bummer.", Greg said.
"Bummer?", asked Zog, the welfen.
"It means it's a bad thing.", David said.
"Why is that a bad thing?"
"Because I really wanted to see one!", Greg said.
"Quiet.", said Andrea over the comms, "You forgot to turn off the radio."
"Sorry ma'am.", said Greg as he turned the radio off.
"Boys.", said Andrea in the lead JLTV, "Let's find these kids."
"I just hope we don't scare them.", said sergeant Sophia Adams, "I'd hate to make a bad first impression."
"These people live in the Yellow forest.", said Madia the lepian, "It's likely that they know about the Galdush battle and they consider you as an enemy. I wouldn't expect them to greet you with 'open arms' as you say it."
"I don't expect that either.", said Andrea, "But that's why we're here. We have to show them that they don't have to fear us. "
Ksee, the feelian, scoffed at that, "You should use your cannons and destroy them. It's what they deserve anyway."
"We won't be the monsters they say we are. There can be another way. Besides, it's the army and the emperor along with the other stuck-up nobility that's the problem. I'm not gonna kill farmers 'cause a bureucrat attacked me."
Ksee thought about that. She saw what the Americans were capable of, and yet she couldn't understand why they don't just force the elves into submission. As they drove through the forest, they came across another path that led deeper into the woods. The tracker led them there and so they followed it. It was amazing how many things the human soldiers were capable of doing, unlike the elves who only knew how to kill in several different ways. The vehicles moved through the woods and reached a wooden wall about roughly twenty feet tall that looked like it saw action recently. They followed the tracker and found it on the ground in front of the gate.
'What happened here?', Andrea thought as she picked up the tracker.
"Hold it!", shouted someone from the wall. It was an elf and around him about twenty more with bows and crossbows pointed at Andrea, "Who are you?"
Andrea calmly stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams of Rift group 2 from the Rift Expeditionary Corp!". This seemed to confuse them.
"Where are you from?", he asked.
"Galdush."
This made them tense up. They seemed angered. "You are the enemy! Why have you come?!". The rangers aimed their guns at them but Andrea waved for them to calm down.
"We are here to speak with your leader. We only want to make peaceful relations."
"You lie! The imperial army told us that they were heading to Galdush to face the enemy that has come to invade our lands! Thousands went and only hundreds returned! That was your doing!"
"Those soldiers attacked us first. They sent their army through the rift and killed thousands of innocent people. We are here to peacefully solve any and all problems with the empire, but we need your help."
"Why should I trust you?"
In response, Andrea gave her gun to Greg, took off her helmet, and widened her arms, "I mean you no harm!". After some hesitation, one of the elves climbed down from the wall.
"Wait there!".
So the team waited. Some were skeptical about this but did nothing. David walked up to Andrea, "Are you sure about this lieutenant? You really think they're gonna even consider talking to us?"
"All I know is they could've shot us on sight. Do you want to kill hundreds of people today, sergeant?". In that moment, the gate opened and an elf followed by fifty more stepped out. The fifty made a defensive line of shields, which tensed up the rangers.
"No, but if this keeps up I might have to.", David said.
The leading elf stepped forward, "I am Tulgor Salvin, commander of the south militia."
Andrea stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams, commander of RG-2 of the Rift Expeditionary group."
"Why have you come, Lieutenant Andrea Williams?"
"As I stated before, we are here to make peaceful relations with the elven people. We mean you no harm."
"You misunderstood my question. Why are you here, specifically?"
"We are here because we want to prove to you that we are not monsters and savages that the empire claims us to be. We only desire peace."
"You keep saying that word. Peace. And yet you kill dozens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of soldiers."
"Those soldiers attacked us first. You can't blame us for defending ourselves."
"True. Still, how do I know you won't stab us in the back? I see the tribals behind you. You make them fight for you, so how do I know you will not enslave us as well."
"We are not slaves!", Xod shouted, making the fighters twitch, "We chose to fight alongside these humans because we are tired of the empire enslaving and killing us! We fight with them because they promised us freedom! With them, not for them!"
This made Tulgor raise an eyebrow, "Is that really true?"
"Yes.", Andrea said, "We want to end slavery and show you that there is a better way. So if you want to fight them, you'll have to fight us. And I assure you, it will be bloody.". The fighters and rangers tensed up, ready for a fight. But Tulgor laughed.
"Never before have I met a woman with such ferociousness and authority.", he said, "You have my respect. However, if you want my trust, you must offer me more than words."
"And what is it that you want?"
Tulgor thought for a while before answering, "There is a certain goblin problem we are facing."
"Goblin problem?"
"Last night, a horde of goblins attacked us and I lost many fighters. I sense that they will come back but I cannot search for them and leave the village undefended."
"Interesting. Do you have any leads? Or a hunch as to where they are?"
"They came from the forest but it stretches for many leagues. They did however come from an abandoned well."
This caught Andrea's attention, "Very well. But my soldiers will have to enter your village."
"I shall allow half of your men and two carriages."
"Alright.", she turned to the group, "Hall, Adams, bring half the group, one JLTV3, and one MRAP. Madia, Ksee, you're coming too, the rest stay here."
The group organized and entered the village. All the people stared at them and their vehicles, like something otherworldly, which they technically were. They came to the abandoned well and Andrea gave the order to prepare the RC drone and the flyer. The rangers removed the wood and stone from the well and started lowering the drone.
"What is that?", Tulgor asked.
"It's a device we can use to see what's inside the well without going in there.", Andrea answered, "And that one can fly."
"Amazing. How?"
"A long story. I might show you sometime."
The drone was lowered to the bottom and a private drove it. He had to turn on night vision to see. "It looks like a tunnel.", he said, "They probably dug their way in there. You got anything?"
"Nothing yet.", said the other private, "Hold on. I think I see a cave. Yeah, definitely. The entrance is above ground level."
"Goblins are night dwellers.", Tulgor said, "They sleep during the day and hate fire. A cave is where they prefer to live. But to think they would dig their way to our well. I knew they were on a tribal level but this."
"Don't compare us to those monsters, elf.", said Madia.
"Why? They also kidnap people and force-mate with them."
"We only do it when we need to!"
"Calm down!", shouted Andrea, "We had an agreement."
"Ma'am, come look at this.", said a private, and Andrea, Tulgor, and Sophia gathered, "I see dozens of them, sleeping, maybe more further out. And here. It's a boy."
"That is the boy they took last night.", Tulgor said, "He still lives."
"Someone has to go down there and get him.", Andrea said, "Ksee?"
"Why me?", Ksee asked.
"You are the most flexible one. Plus, that's an order."
Ksee groaned but accepted. The private pulled the drone back and tied the rope to her. She was lowered down and then crawled through the tunnel, ignoring the stench on the way. Finally, she came to the cave and looked around, her cat eyes allowing her to see clearly. She saw the boy, who was a little battered but breathing and alive. She slowly grabbed him under the arms but he woke up and started freaking out. This woke up a few goblins and Ksee grabbed the boy and ran back, quickly going back through the tunnel.
She tied the rope around him, "Pull him up!". As they pulled the boy up she could see the goblins approaching, "They're coming!"
"Take this!", Andrea shouted, throwing a frag grenade at her.
"What is it?", Ksee asked.
"Just pull the ring, throw it, and then climb!"
Ksee did just that. After she pulled the pin she threw it at the approaching goblins who grabbed it out of curiosity. A curiosity that would have them killed as the grenade exploded, killing several goblins and blocking the path to Ksee. After Ksee and the boy climbed out, the soldiers rejoiced.
"Please don't make me do that again.", Ksee said.
Andrea chuckled, "No promises."
Ksee saw the boy run to his mother and friends, who cried tears of joy. This made her smile. Tulgor walked over to her and slightly bowed, "Thank you for saving one of my own."
"Don't mention it.", Ksee said, "It was a piece of cake."
Tulgor was confused by that statement, "Cake? There is no cake here."
Ksee laughed a little, "Don't worry about it. The humans taught me, I was a little confused myself."
Greg walked over as he put away his radio, "Ok, it's done. I gave the location to command, they're sending a platoon with flamethrowers to deal with the cave."
"How-", Tulgor began to ask.
"Another device.", Greg said, "We have a lot of them."
Tulgor chuckled, "I see. Thank you, humans. I suppose we can trust you after all. Come, let me introduce you to the elder."
End of chapter 7
​
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Suzume no Tojimari is a Japanese movie that was released in 2021, directed by Kei Ishikawa and starring Mayu Matsuoka and Nijiro Murakami. The movie is based on the novel "Suzume no Tojimari" by Riku Onda, and follows the story of a young woman named Suzume who is trying to unravel the mystery of her family's past.

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The movie begins with Suzume returning to her hometown after living in Tokyo for several years. She arrives at her family's old house, which has been abandoned for a long time, and starts to uncover the secrets that have been hidden away for years. Suzume discovers a hidden door that leads to a small room, where she finds an old diary belonging to her great-grandmother. As she reads through the diary, Suzume learns about the turbulent history of her family, including a forbidden love affair between her great-grandmother and a man named Shoichi.
As Suzume delves deeper into her family's past, she begins to unravel a complex web of secrets, lies, and betrayals. She learns that her great-grandmother was forced to marry a man she didn't love, and that her own grandmother was ostracized by the community because of her mother's actions. Suzume also discovers that Shoichi was a member of a group of rebels who were fighting against the government during World War II, and that he and her great-grandmother were caught up in a dangerous game of espionage and betrayal.
Despite the many obstacles she faces, Suzume is determined to uncover the truth about her family's past and to find a way to reconcile the broken relationships between her family members. Along the way, she meets a young man named Tetsu, who helps her in her quest for answers. Together, they embark on a journey that takes them from the quiet streets of their small town to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, and finally to the remote island where her great-grandmother and Shoichi had their fateful meeting.
Suzume no Tojimari is a captivating tale of love and adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The movie is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the Japanese countryside and the vibrant energy of Tokyo. The performances by the lead actors are also outstanding, with Mayu Matsuoka giving a nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of Suzume, and Nijiro Murakami bringing a sense of quiet intensity to the role of Tetsu.
One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its exploration of the complex and often painful history of Japan during and after World War II. Through the story of Suzume's family, we see the lingering effects of the war on both the individual and the community, as well as the ways in which past traumas can continue to haunt us in the present. The movie also touches on themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
In conclusion, Suzume no Tojimari is a must-see movie for anyone who loves a good mystery, a great love story, or a powerful exploration of history and human relationships. With its stunning visuals, compelling performances, and thought-provoking themes, this movie is sure to stay with you long after the credits roll.

Worf was born in 2340. In TNG, he's in his 20s. In Picard, he's around 60.
By contrast, Kor, Kang and Koloth were adults in the late 2260s (already commanders or captains with their own ships, in fact). I think we can say it's generous to assume they are least 20 years old - having their own ships, they might well be over 30 or older - the actors were all around 40 at the time of shooting TOS.
But even based on being 20, we see them again nearly 100 years later in 2370. they must be at least 120. Perhaps even 130 or 140 or more. They are clearly old men, but not geriatric incapable men. Nothing suggests they are close to the life expectancy of a Klingon at that point. Clearly Klingons have a long lifespan.
We also have Martok. We know he served on ShiVang's flagship from 2345 and we know him through around 2375. Again, assuming he was at least 20 when he was on ShiVang's ship, he would be at least 50. We see no signs of him having any grey hair.
K'mpec, the "longest serving" chancellor is grey, though his beard appears to still have some black in it - it could be dark grey though. The older Klingon survivors we see in "Birthright" from the Khitomer massacre are grey. They have been there for about 23 years at that point, but we don't know precisely how old they are. I can't think of any other Klingons off hand that we know the ages of.
There is always a possibility that Worf has bad genes and is the Steve Martin/Anderson Cooper of Qo'nos - he may have prematurely greyed. It's also possible that unlike humans, Klingon greying varies wildly among individuals from 60 to 100. But if this is not the case, it leads to some questions.
In general, we rarely see Klingons with grey hair in normal battle situations including manning Klingon ships (including those in command where you would expect the most senior and experienced officers). This would seem to imply that Klingons generally only serve on ships for a few decades, perhaps until their 50s before retiring from that life and living as much as 70 years longer doing other things. I would have to think that if this were the case, Martok's objection to Kor being allowed by Worf to serve on his ship at over 120 years old would have been a lot more serious - "Dude, he's like 60 years past retirement age."
And if this is the case, what do Klingons do for the remaining decades of their lives? Kor didn't want to feel useless at 120+. Even if he is the exception to the skill and alertness of a 120 year old Klingon, I have to imagine there are Klingon warriors at 70 who are experienced warriors and don't want to be useless either.
In particular, going into the Dominion war, you would think it would be an "all hands on deck" situation and that able-bodied Klingons from 60-100 would be invited or drafted in to fight the Dominion threat. But we don't really see any grey Klingons during the war.
Quite frankly, I would have expected Worf to perhaps be showing a bit of grey at this point, but for him to be fully grey, I find that an interesting production decision.

While in a graveyard trying to use an ouija board because we thought we’d get better readings in a land filled of dead.
I decided to take a walk with a friend. While walking and talking about the authenticity of the ouija board she asked me “what is your religion”, I told her as of now I’m a nihilist and asked the same question to her.
She told me she is Wiccan and strayed from Christianity because it and religions like it are heavily patriarchal. I mean I rolled my eyes but then I thought.
Is patriarchy and matriarchy inherently a bad or good thing? I assume that with communism, libertarianism, capitalism all the isms it is based on how it is used.
But when I asked her she told me that it is because of what each side represents. That women and femininity is a loving, nurturing and caring side and to giving life. And that made me think, is it really.
Most are familiar with the trinity, but unless you’re into Wicca, Greek mythology, or obscure topics like me, not many have heard of the mother, maiden, and the crown.
3 women that come together to form a single monothilic deity. In Greek mythology it’s Clotho who threads life, Lachesis who measures it, and Atropes who cuts it. Despite not being as known as the trinity it’s seen a lot in pop culture
Depicted a lot from Sanderson sisters from hocus pocus to Ty Lee, Azula and Mai from avatar the last air bender and my favorite portrayal is Wednesday, morticia, and grandmama in the addams family.
The triple goddess, is another name and that is what Wicca focuses on in its belief system. From Karma hitting you 3 times over to worshiping all 3 sides.
The idea of taking aspects of a identity and having them be represented as different people is easy to digest and interesting.
Men too with hunter, lord, sage. But it takes me back to my original thoughts of mother maiden and crown. It’s funny that a lot of women in Wicca that use this as a symbol in feminism do not know that the term and the idea of such from mother, maiden and crown came from a dude named Robert Graves in his book the white goddess.
He states in his book that all religions come from different triple goddesses and they come from a over arching eternal muse. He refers to this goddess as the white goddess, queen of Druid’s, Mothebride/layer out, Maiden/nymph/hag, and the most popular Mothemaiden/crown
But he looses me with his interpretation of this one entity. Because Richard Graves is not a historian but a love poet, and his interpretation of femininity with most other interpretations puts femininity in a box. Because he sees it as birth, love, regeneration. So did the two women before him that had his same philosophy years before Richard Graves was even born.
And here is where I feel everything is based on interpretation. When you look at life most assume nothing but positivity, but who ever said either life or death is only positive or negative. Life can be, new memories, happy beginnings, love, and friendships. But on a flip side it can be cancer, overpopulation, infestations, because a big threat to other lives is another life. War, genocide, rape, and chaos is not started by the dead. Which may seem like why some would crawl toward darkness.
I always say, I do not see a lot of happy people working customer service but I do not know any depressed morticians. So why does this connect with femininity, well I feel just like life and death it’s put in a box. I feel it’s a ignorant perspective to only see one side, because like the triple goddess idea and people like Robert Graves, he to me is thinking in a generalized way. The more people try to bind together these 3 and also choke femininity up as good as they say, the more confused I get. Because what about other female icons in both religion and history that do the complete opposite of all the femininity is supposed to be.
Like the furies in Greek mythology, the graeae, hecate, kali from Hindi mythology , izanami from Japanese mythology, midnight washerwomen in Celtic mythology and the banshee and the morrigan, another triple goddess that is all about death and war.
So when you put things into one box you are labeling it under one type of characteristic. I feel from birth to death nothing is only good or bad. And the same goes with femininity and masculinity, patriarchy and matriarchy, some can see a icon of power and life. But others will see only despair and death. Perception is everyone’s reality and I myself and not immune to bias or such as this comes from a nihilistic view.

I have a save of a modded game that I was playing without issue last night. Today, I attempted to load it, and when the game starts, everything is gone. No units, no production, no research, no focus tree. Also, the countries are all called the wrong names (Germany is called the German Republic, for example, when it is still fascist). If I let it run, it gets to the end of the in-game day, then crashes with an access violation. Older saves from the same game are the same. The only thing that changed between when it worked and when it didn't is that Irony Mod Manager got an update.
​
Mods:
12 Support Companies
Additional Tank Slots + Gun Upgrade
Allied Construction Projects
America At War
Better Air Wing Deployment
Better Government
Better Preset Colors
Colored Puppets
Elite Infantry 2
Infantry Equipment Designer
Jazzy Generic Focus
Lamp's Eqpt Icons
Modifier Icons
More Division Icons
More Research Slots
More Voice Lines
MPU Update
Population Based Garrison Requirements
RCS - Infantry Designer Compat
RCS - Vanilla Compat
Realistic State Integration
Reworked Air Designer RT56 version
Ryifer's Combat System
Ship designer - USA
State Transfer Tool
Strategic Nuclear Missile
Strategic View Adjustments
War Crimes 3

Battle report: R-02
Time: One day after the Galdush battle, day 21 since REC forces crossed to the other side
Report carried out by: Brigadier General Oscar Wayne
Report states: At noon of the 21st day the remains of the enemy seventh army engaged base Galdush. The attack was carried out by air forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh wyvern corp, and ground forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh siege legion. The wyverns came within roughly three miles from the base before the majority was taken out of the sky by AN/TWQ-2 missile systems, the rest either fled or stayed and were taken out via heavy machine gun fire. The siege legion was destroyed sooner by M155A2 self-propelled howitzers. The majority was eliminated, and remnants fled.
Outcome: Victory
REC casualties: None
Enemy casualties: Estimated 4.000 (Not including wyverns and hardware)
Identification sources: Captured general of the seventh army, Drannor Crax; Captured dwarven commander Dunan Oremelt.
(Twenty days after the Galdush battle)
Imperial palace, Elyana
"What is the meaning of this!?", Canus yelled in furious anger as he stood up from his throne.
"Your Majesty, I can explain.", Laeroth said standing in the center of the Grand chamber, surrounded by senators and the Chosen legions, "I was planning on informing you-"
"Inform me of what!? That the invasion force led by general Ylindar was destroyed in less than a day!? That the troops you sent to Galdush to stop the humans were also crushed!? That we lost nearly two hundred thousand forces, including two of our armies and generals, in less than one fucking moon cycle!?".
This was the first time anyone has seen Canus rage out like this. His whole life he was calm and collected, never raising his voice at anyone. Even if he did have an outburst, its magnitude was nowhere near the level of what the Grand chamber's attendants were experiencing at this moment. Laeroth had no words with which to defend himself and lying was beneath. He underestimated the enemy's capabilities. If they could do this, then he shuddered to imagine what they would do if they were given even more time. All he knew for sure was that a direct approach will undoubtedly lead to failure.
"Your Majesty.", Laeroth spoke, "I meant no disrespect. I only assumed that-"
"You assumed!? You do not assume, Laeroth. You determine! You bring solutions and results. In over three hundred cycles you never once assumed anything. What has changed? Are you losing your edge?"
"Your Majes-"
"Perhaps I should put someone else in charge.". These words shook Laeroth to the core. "Someone more youthful. Someone I can fully trust. Someone capable of cleaning this mess. Perhaps Athtar, maybe Reebus or Syndra. Or... maybe that fellow Alphs."
"No!", Laeroth shouted, his voice booming over the halls, making everyone present twitch. He drew his sword and knelt, "I shall resolve this. I shall not fail you, Your Majesty.". He brought the edge of his sword to his left hand and without hesitation sliced off his smallest finger. Then he placed his sword on the floor and offered Canus his finger. Canus slowly walked over to him and took it.
After observing the finger for several moments, Canus spoke, "Rise.", and so Laeroth did, "This is your final chance. Should you fail me, you will lose more than this finger.". With a bow and a salute, Laeroth exited the chamber. "This meeting is over! Return to your duties!"
With that, the chamber was emptied and only Canus remained with his guard. Sitting on his throne, Canus observed Laeroth's finger. All he could do was hope and pray that Laeroth's determination would prevail.
As Laeroth walked down the halls he patched up his hand with cloth. His first captain walked beside him, "Sir! You must slow down."
"I cannot Helion!", Laeroth shouted, "Every minute we spend bickering is a minute we give to the enemy. Their power, their speed, it is like nothing we faced before."
"Well... What do we do? What can we do?"
"First we need to fortify the North Alston river. Send word to general Lyklor Balphine of the XI and general Reebus Octo of the XII. Tell them to hold the bridges and not let the enemy pass. Since they have powerful cannons, they need to spread their forces out and use long-range catapults. Second, send word to the Meilume nobility and tell them to leave the region. Third, bring me the captive humans as soon as possible. Where are they?"
"About a dozen have been scattered at the Meilume and Kuruk capitals. The rest are on their way to the other cities between Kuruk and Elyana and many will be sent to the mines of the Tubal mountains."
"I want eight captives here as soon as possible."
"Understood sir.". The captain saluted and rushed to his duties, leaving Laeroth who entered his personal chamber and grabbed his flask. After he emptied it he threw it to the corner of the room. Sitting down on his bed he caught his breath and stared at the spirit statues on his shelf and prayed, "Morto, I beg of you. Bring death upon these cursed enemies."
---
(Around the same time)
South village, Yellow forest county, Meilume
Nym will never forget what happened that day. His little crew swore that they would never tell anyone about it. That... man, if it can be called a man, terrified them. When they returned to their parents they lied about how they were running from ferals they saw in the forest while playing. This put the whole village on alert. Of course, it would, a danger of ferals attacking was normal. The whole forest had dens of feral welfen and leanoids, but the county didn't have the means with which to deal with the problem and the empire doesn't see them as a threat overall, so the counties were on their own.
The Yellow forest county had roughly eight thousand people living in it with roughly six hundred militia. It was small compared to some other counties but it held on all things considered. Some people wanted to leave the country as they feared it was becoming too dangerous due to feral activity, but recent events made them choose otherwise. Two massive armies marched near their forest and looking down from the hill the people could see them. The first one marched to the rift to get to the other side and the other after them to assist them. But they were all defeated. This frightened the people of Yellow forest, but they chose to stay, thinking that maybe the enemy won't enter their forest because of the ferals. A long shot, but one they chose to take.
Nym was outside with his friends. The sun was starting to set and they had to return home from mushroom picking. "We never should have gone there.", said Cohnal.
"Stop talking about it.", Nym said, "It's done, stop."
"He has a point, Nym.", Elsha said, "I don't know why that man let us go but... I don't ever want to see him again."
"Same here.", said Meara.
"And we won't have to.", Nym said, "As long as we don't tell anyone anything and we never go to Galdush, we will be fine."
The four of them nodded to that. What happened on that day scared them to the core. But it made them confused more than anything else. The passing imperial soldiers said how they were going to a savage land filled with barbaric monsters. But if that was true, then why did the men on Galdush spare them? Was it because they took no pleasure in killing children? One thing was for sure, they will heed their advice and stay away.
"I think we have enough.", Elsha said.
"Yes.", Hallas said, "We should probably return to the village before ferals show up."
"I don't think they will.", Nym said.
"What do you mean?", Meara asked.
"Haven't you noticed that we haven't seen any ferals in several moon cycles? It's like they ran away."
"That is strange.", Cohnal said, "But either way, we should hurry back."
The five of them started walking back. The forest is quite beautiful in the evening and at night. The reason why it's called Yellow forest is that in the late yellow season and all of the green season, the yellow-backed fireflies and red-headed beetles start flying at night and illuminate the whole forest with yellow and red dots. The county doesn't put up many torches in these times because the people love watching the red and yellow dance of insects. A few beetles have come out of the trees and this told the children they should hurry.
As they ran through the forest, Elsha stopped when she heard rustling in a nearby bush. Her curiosity got the better of her and she walked closer to the bush, despite Nym telling her not to. She walked closer and closer and when she got closer she noticed a pair of green eyes inside the bush. She realized immediately what it was and jumped back just before the creature jumped after her. It was a goblin. Short and bald with a big nose and ugly teeth it wore rags and held a crudely made spear. Elsha was backing away but she slipped and fell on her back. The goblin was about to stab her with his spear, but Nym jumped in and shanked it in the side, piercing its heart. Pulling out the knife he grabbed Elsha and the five of them started running back to the village. As they ran, goblins started jumping out of the bushes and shrubs. Dozens of them. The children could see the gate of the village.
"Open the gate!", Nym yelled as he dragged Elsha, "Goblins! Let us in!"
The guards quickly rushed to open the gate. They opened it just enough so the children could pass. One by one passed and Nym was about to cross but he was grabbed by the goblins. The goblin that grabbed him was taller and bulkier than the rest. He dragged Nym back and left as more goblins showed up. The children cried and the guards quickly closed the gate and climbed on the walls. They saw not dozens, but hundreds of goblins. How could there be so many, they couldn't know and there was no time to find out. The one hundred and fifty militia that were at the village armed themselves and prepared to fight. The goblins threw stones at them but the stone is not as strong as an arrow. The militia opened fire with bows and crossbows, killing dozens of them. The larger goblins threw larger stones and even smaller goblins at the wall. A few made it over and some landed on the militia and started stabbing them. One militia fighter used his sword to slice their heads off and grabbed the crossbow of a fallen fighter and shot the larger goblin in the head, killing him and letting his disgusting, bloated hunk of flesh flop on the ground.
"Aim for the large ones first!", he shouted, "I need spears on the edges, they are climbing! Burn them, they hate fire!". He continued to kill more goblins, slicing the heads of the ones who climbed up on the wall's edges. In front, he could see how a section was overwhelmed as the large goblins threw smaller ones at the militia. He grabbed a nearby shield and charged at them, knocking several down and letting the forces on the ground deal with them. As he looked down he saw the last six large goblins grab a log and he immediately understood their role. "Prepare the torches! Grab cloth!". The fighters did just that and threw the burning cloth and torches at the goblins as they hit the gate with their log.
As the battle went on, the militia killed dozens of goblins with volleys of arrows but more just kept coming. They could see the end though, there were no more large goblins and the small ones had organized a suicide charge to overwhelm the wall, but the fighters kept throwing fire and shooting them with arrows. As this was happening, however, something was happening in the village. The people were all in their homes, but a few were still helping the militia fight as they treated their wounds and brought arrows, food, and boiling water. One of them heard something coming from the abandoned well and moved closer to see. When he got closer he peaked in and a green hand grabbed him as another one stabbed him in the throat. From the well goblins came, several of them, then a few dozen. They went into homes and people started screaming. Elsha was in one of the homes, and her grandmother was laying in the corner when a goblin walked towards her, but Elsha took a knife and stabbed it in the head. From her door, she could see more of them running towards her. She was scared but relieved as more militia came. They were from the western village of the county and had come as soon as they could. The fighters went into the homes and started killing the goblins. Chopping off heads, stabbing hearts and lungs, firing crossbows, burning, the militia used everything.
Eventually, the goblins inside the village were all killed and the fires were put out. The goblins outside the wall were mostly dead but nearly a hundred fled. This was a dark night. The south militia lost nearly a third of its force and dozens of people were killed by the goblins from the well, which was covered up with wooded planks and stone. But the damage to the hearts and minds of the people was greater. Mothers mourned their children and children their fathers. Their greatest fear was the goblins coming back.
(The next day)
Everyone looked to the wall defender, Tulgor, the commander of the south militia. They hoped he would have an answer to all this, and so did he. Some wanted revenge, many asked what to do next. Truth is, he didn't know what to do. Something like this never occurred and no one thought it was possible.
"Tulgor.", spoke an elderly elf, "What do you think we should do?"
"I... I do not know, elder.", Tulgor replied, making everyone around them lower their heads in grief, "We could send fighters down the well and see what is down there. It could be their den and if so they are asleep. But I cannot be certain what we will face. If we get cornered we would die. Besides, we do not have the means with which to destroy the den."
"So all that remains is for us to prepare for the next attack?"
"I fear so. And since we do not know where they will attack next, I suggest we inform the mayor to declare a state of alert county-wide, as to prevent further surprises and death."
"Very well. I will personally go to the central hall and-"
"Tulgor!", shouted a militia fighter, "Tulgor! You have to see this."
Tulgor quickly stood up, "What is it? Have the goblins awoken?"
"No. But... I don't know. You must come, they call for you."
"Call for me? Who? Imperial soldiers?"
"No. They are soldiers, but they are wearing green armor and have boomsticks. They're not dwarves, they are too tall and their skin is paler than theirs is."
This greatly confused Tulgor, "Did they say where they are from?"
"Yes. They are from Galdush."
This statement made his heart freeze and the people around him panicked. The enemy from Galdush came here? Why? Have they come to kill them and take their land? Why here, this is a small county. Swallowing the spit that worked up in his mouth he spoke, "How many?"
"I counted only a dozen. But I think there are more in their armored carriages."
"Assemble fifty of our finest. I will meet them."
---
(Earlier)
Operations base Galdush, morning
It's been a while since any attacks have been launched at them and REC got to work. They improved their base, finishing the machine shop, barracks, airstrip, fortifications, and central command. The base was taking shape of a polygonal fort. The reason is that, historically, these types of fortifications were the best defenses against cannon fire until more accurate and powerful forms of artillery were created. But since the highest level of military technology possessed by the enemy is that of the Napoleonic era, it's not an issue. The other benefit is that polygonal forts are built in a way so that the point which needed to be defended is in the middle. This way the rift is in the center and defended on all sides. As an extra precaution, the rift was surrounded by a steel dome with a garrison defending it.
After the full thirty thousand troops made it to the other side of the rift, a few reforms were made. Firstly, all equipment that required a satellite link was not to be used as they had no satellites here. Instead, they used drones until a proper system can be emplaced. Secondly, a squad of four distinct tribals will be accompanying all Rift groups, or RGs, in order to spread the word to the other tribals of North Altia in hopes of bringing more people to the US's side and also showing them why they are not monsters.
There were currently five RGs and each was given an assignment. They were to go to various locations in Meilume and do reconnaissance as well as gain contact with locals and find out more about the imperial government. Each RG was a platoon of thirty-eight rangers from the 75th Ranger regiment led by a first lieutenant and was equipped with standard hardware. Since the end of the Great crisis, Russia and the US have been working on the 'Warrior' project in order to create better gear for soldiers. The result was a helmet, body armor, a one-piece coverall, hearing protection; protective glasses; a protective set for knees and elbows; new grenade launchers, submachine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, ammunition, a combat knife, as well as 24/7 reconnaissance means, a day and night sighting system, a small-size binocular, optical and thermal weapon sights, etc. As well as these, the system comprises a universal shelter, a multifunctional knife, a signal lamp, a watch, winter and summer two-side camouflage sets, an autonomous heat source, a backpack, an individual water filter, a small entrenching tool, breath protection devices, means of radiological and chemical control, a medical kit, and filtering clothes. As for vehicles, each RG has two JLTV3s, two International MaxxPros, and one LAV-40, all armed and ready.
With their assignments given, the rangers got to work. RG-2, led by lieutenant Andrea Williams, was to track down the elven children Spearteam found snooping. The group tracked them down to a nearby place designated Yellow forest. They took a path through the forest and hoped to run into their village. On the way, they admired the environment. The green trees, the clear blue sky, and the animals looked like the ones back on Earth, just with a few distinct features. Like how rabbits have longer legs, foxes have brighter eyes, some even have two tails. Everything was truly fascinating.
"Man this place is beautiful.", said sergeant David Hall, "It's like driving through a national park."
"You said it, Dave.", said sergeant Greg Nivera, "What do you think we'll find here?"
"Man, I'm hoping for some griffons or something."
"Griffons are only in the north.", said Xod, the leanoid, "If we ever get to the dwarven kingdoms we might find one."
"That's a bummer.", Greg said.
"Bummer?", asked Zog, the welfen.
"It means it's a bad thing.", David said.
"Why is that a bad thing?"
"Because I really wanted to see one!", Greg said.
"Quiet.", said Andrea over the comms, "You forgot to turn off the radio."
"Sorry ma'am.", said Greg as he turned the radio off.
"Boys.", said Andrea in the lead JLTV, "Let's find these kids."
"I just hope we don't scare them.", said sergeant Sophia Adams, "I'd hate to make a bad first impression."
"These people live in the Yellow forest.", said Madia the lepian, "It's likely that they know about the Galdush battle and they consider you as an enemy. I wouldn't expect them to greet you with 'open arms' as you say it."
"I don't expect that either.", said Andrea, "But that's why we're here. We have to show them that they don't have to fear us. "
Ksee, the feelian, scoffed at that, "You should use your cannons and destroy them. It's what they deserve anyway."
"We won't be the monsters they say we are. There can be another way. Besides, it's the army and the emperor along with the other stuck-up nobility that's the problem. I'm not gonna kill farmers 'cause some bureaucrat attacked me."
Ksee thought about that. She saw what the Americans were capable of, and yet she couldn't understand why they don't just force the elves into submission. As they drove through the forest, they came across another path that led deeper into the woods. The tracker led them there and so they followed it. It was amazing how many things the human soldiers were capable of doing, unlike the elves who only knew how to kill in several different ways. The vehicles moved through the woods and reached a wooden wall about roughly twenty feet tall that looked like it saw action recently. They followed the tracker and found it on the ground in front of the gate.
'What happened here?', Andrea thought as she picked up the tracker.
"Hold it!", shouted someone from the wall. It was an elf and around him, about twenty more with bows and crossbows pointed at Andrea, "Who are you?"
Andrea calmly stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams of Rift group 2 from the Rift Expeditionary Corp!". This seemed to confuse them.
"Where are you from?", he asked.
"Galdush."
This made them tense up. They seemed angered. "You are the enemy! Why have you come?!". The rangers aimed their guns at them but Andrea waved for them to calm down.
"We are here to speak with your leader. We only want to make peaceful relations."
"You lie! The imperial army told us that they were heading to Galdush to face the enemy that has come to invade our lands! Thousands went and only dozens returned! That was your doing!"
"Those soldiers attacked us first. They sent their army through the rift and killed thousands of innocent people. We are here to peacefully solve any and all problems with the empire, but we need your help."
"Why should I trust you?"
In response, Andrea gave her gun to Greg, took off her helmet, and widened her arms, "I mean you no harm!". After some hesitation, one of the elves climbed down from the wall.
"Wait there!".
So the team waited. Some were skeptical about this but did nothing. David walked up to Andrea, "Are you sure about this lieutenant? You really think they're gonna even consider talking to us?"
"All I know is they could've shot us on sight. Do you want to kill hundreds of people today, sergeant?". At that moment, the gate opened and an elf followed by fifty more stepped out. The fifty made a defensive line of shields, which tensed up the rangers.
"No, but if this keeps up I might have to.", David said.
The leading elf stepped forward, "I am Tulgor Salvin, commander of the south militia."
Andrea stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams, commander of RG-2 of the Rift Expeditionary group."
"Why have you come, Lieutenant Andrea Williams?"
"As I stated before, we are here to make peaceful relations with the elven people. We mean you no harm."
"You misunderstood my question. Why are you here, specifically?"
"We are here because we want to prove to you that we are not monsters and savages that the empire claims us to be. We only desire peace."
"You keep saying that word. Peace. And yet you kill dozens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of soldiers."
"Those soldiers attacked us first. You can't blame us for defending ourselves."
"True. Still, how do I know you won't stab us in the back? I see the tribals behind you. You make them fight for you, so how do I know you will not enslave us as well."
"We are not slaves!", Xod shouted, making the fighters twitch, "We chose to fight alongside these humans because we are tired of the empire enslaving and killing us! We fight with them because they promised us freedom! With them, not for them!"
This made Tulgor raise an eyebrow, "Is that really true?"
"Yes.", Andrea said, "We want to end slavery and show you that there is a better way. So if you want to fight them, you'll have to fight us. And I assure you, it will be bloody.". The fighters and rangers tensed up, ready for a fight. But Tulgor laughed.
"Never before have I met a woman with such ferociousness and authority.", he said, "You have my respect. However, if you want my trust, you must offer me more than words."
"And what is it that you want?"
Tulgor thought for a while before answering, "There is a certain goblin problem we are facing."
"Goblin problem?"
"Last night, a horde of goblins attacked us and I lost many fighters. I sense that they will come back but I cannot search for them and leave the village undefended."
"Interesting. Do you have any leads? Or a hunch as to where they are?"
"They came from the forest but it stretches for many leagues. They did however come from an abandoned well."
This caught Andrea's attention, "Very well. But my soldiers will have to enter your village."
"I shall allow half of your men and two carriages."
"Alright.", she turned to the group, "Hall, Adams, bring half the group, one JLTV3, and one MRAP. Madia, Ksee, you're coming too, the rest stay here."
The group organized and entered the village. All the people stared at them and their vehicles, like something otherworldly, which they technically were. They came to the abandoned well and Andrea gave the order to prepare the RC drone and the flyer. The rangers removed the wood and stone from the well and started lowering the drone.
"What is that?", Tulgor asked.
"It's a device we can use to see what's inside the well without going in there.", Andrea answered, "And that one can fly."
"Amazing. How?"
"A long story. I might show you sometime."
The drone was lowered to the bottom and a private drove it. He had to turn on night vision to see. "It looks like a tunnel.", he said, "They probably dug their way in there. You got anything?"
"Nothing yet.", said the other private, "Hold on. I think I see a cave. Yeah, definitely. The entrance is above ground level."
"Goblins are night dwellers.", Tulgor said, "They sleep during the day and hate fire. A cave is where they prefer to live. But to think they would dig their way to our well. I knew they were on a tribal level but this."
"Don't compare us to those monsters, elf.", said Madia.
"Why? They also kidnap people and force-mate with them."
"We only do it when we need to!"
"Calm down!", shouted Andrea, "We had an agreement."
"Ma'am, come look at this.", said a private, and Andrea, Tulgor, and Sophia gathered, "I see dozens of them, sleeping, maybe more further out. And here. It's a boy."
"That is the boy they took last night.", Tulgor said, "He still lives."
"Someone has to go down there and get him.", Andrea said, "Ksee?"
"Why me?", Ksee asked.
"You are the most flexible one. Plus, that's an order."
Ksee groaned but accepted. The private pulled the drone back and tied the rope to her. She was lowered down and then crawled through the tunnel, ignoring the stench on the way. Finally, she came to the cave and looked around, her cat eyes allowing her to see clearly. She saw the boy, who was a little battered but breathing and alive. She slowly grabbed him under the arms but he woke up and started freaking out. This woke up a few goblins and Ksee grabbed the boy and ran back, quickly going back through the tunnel.
She tied the rope around him, "Pull him up!". As they pulled the boy up she could see the goblins approaching, "They're coming!"
"Take this!", Andrea shouted, throwing a frag grenade at her.
"What is it?", Ksee asked.
"Just pull the ring, throw it, and then climb!"
Ksee did just that. After she pulled the pin she threw it at the approaching goblins who grabbed it out of curiosity. A curiosity that would have them killed as the grenade exploded, killing several goblins and blocking the path to Ksee. After Ksee and the boy climbed out, the soldiers rejoiced.
"Please don't make me do that again.", Ksee said.
Andrea chuckled, "No promises."
Ksee saw the boy run to his mother and friends, who cried tears of joy. This made her smile. Tulgor walked over to her and slightly bowed, "Thank you for saving one of my own."
"Don't mention it.", Ksee said, "It was a piece of cake."
Tulgor was confused by that statement, "Cake? There is no cake here."
Ksee laughed a little, "Don't worry about it. The humans taught me, I was a little confused myself."
Greg walked over as he put away his radio, "Ok, it's done. I gave the location to command, they're sending a platoon with flamethrowers to deal with the cave."
"How-", Tulgor began to ask.
"Another device.", Greg said, "We have a lot of them."
Tulgor chuckled, "I see. Thank you, humans. I suppose we can trust you after all. Come, let me introduce you to the elder."
End of chapter 7
​
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Yea Boyz are a close-knit adult clan based in the USA. We are active in chat, as well as active in donations. Our goal is to have a clan that is competitive but also puts an emphasis on enjoying the game. We're in legendary league, and are accepting anybody who has solid war history, and over 5000 trophies. If you have less trophies than that, we can make an exception with a good war history. While we are competitive, we also understand that clash royale is a game, and we treat it as such.
The rules are simple: no racism is tolerated, and you must get a minimum amount of points per week in war. The amount will be sent through clan mail each week. The path for promotion is simple: war often, be consistent, donate and be active in chat!
Discord is available. Mention 'reddit' in your application to join.
Have fun and enjoy the game, and we hope to meet you soon!

So, after almost 2 years of pretty much doing what we want whenever we want, and talking all the time, she found out. I posted like a month ago about someone sending her a message. Well then she saw some of my messages on his phone when he thought she was sleeping, so I guess it's been world war 3 over there. He's not doing great, and we can barely talk so I'm a mess. She doesn't know who I am (yet, ugh) but she knows he's been seeing someone this whole time.... I'm sooo aggravated and just pissed. Even though I know oh so well that this is what I get. Just sucks. I'm so used to basing my happiness around him and now we have to "chill out" and I fucking hate it. He does too. Sigh.
Thanks for listening.

This is the best tl;dr I could make, original reduced by 64%. (I'm a bot)

A dramatic increase in financial help is needed to help poor countries meet the $2.4tn annual cost of coping with the combined impact of wars, pandemics and the climate crisis, the outgoing head of the World Bank has said.
Speaking in Niger, David Malpass defended his record for funding support for developing countries since becoming president of the Washington-based organisation and said further increases would probably be announced at the Bank's spring meeting next month.
Under an agreement stretching back to the 1940s, an American has run the World Bank while a European has been the managing director of its sister organisation, the International Monetary Fund.
The World Bank president said the legacy of the pandemic was that 700 million people were living on less than $2 a day, the global extreme poverty rate had increased from 8.4% to 9.3%, and the true death toll of Covid-19 was unknown in many countries.
Against a backdrop of overlapping crises, Malpass said that during his presidency the World Bank had doubled its financing for global public projects, such as action to mitigate the impact of the climate crisis, to more than $100bn in the three-year 2020-22 period.
Malpass said: "In many developing countries, the stimulus response came on top of sharp increases in debt from projects financed by entities outside the traditional creditor countries. These contracts often lacked transparency."As a result, public debt has grown to unsustainable levels in much of the developing world, with precise amounts and terms often unknown due to non-disclosure clauses, collateralised debt and debt-like arrangements, and escrow accounts.

Summary Source FAQ Feedback Top keywords: countries^#1 Bank^#2 World^#3 Malpass^#4 debt^#5
Post found in /worldnews, /AutoNewspaper and /GUARDIANauto.
NOTICE: This thread is for discussing the submission topic. Please do not discuss the concept of the autotldr bot here.

Euphoria was a game animation middleware created by NaturalMotion based on Dynamic Motion Synthesis, NaturalMotion's proprietary technology for animating 3D characters on-the-fly "based on a full simulation of the 3D character, including body, muscles and motor nervous system". Instead of using predefined animations, the characters' actions and reactions are synthesized in real-time; they are different every time, even when replaying the same scene. While it is common for current video games to use limp "ragdolls" for animations generated on the fly, Euphoria employed a more complex method to animate the entirety of physically bound objects within the game environment.The engine was to be used in an Indiana Jones game that was later cancelled. According to its web site, Euphoria ran on the Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, iOS and Android platforms and was compatible with all commercial physics engines.
A press release that was enclosed with the second trailer eventually confirmed that Grand Theft Auto IV is the first of Rockstar's games to feature Euphoria.Red Dead Redemption is their second game to use this engine. The Star Wars titles, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed and The Force Unleashed II use Euphoria, as do games based on the Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE) including Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2. Euphoria is integrated into the source code of RAGE.In 2017, NaturalMotion announced it would end licensing of Euphoria, along with its other technologies, to concentrate on mobile games.
Timeline:
•In February 2007, NaturalMotion and Rockstar Games announced that Euphoria would be used in future Rockstar titles.
•In August 2007, NaturalMotion announced Backbreaker, an American football game for next-generation consoles that employs Euphoria to generate tackles in real-time, as opposed to playback animation.
•The July 2009 issue of Game Informer confirmed that Max Payne 3 would include Euphoria along with Rockstar's RAGE.
•NaturalMotion's iOS title Clumsy Ninja uses Euphoria, and is the first mobile game to do so.

So before the recent leak, I was a subscriber to the "Introduction Order" theory that based on the introduction in chapter 0, we can tell who's going to be a part of the next chapter. This also lines up somewhat with the lyric of Lament which describes our journey from sinner to sinner and chapters to chapters but they're vague enough you cannot really tell which verse belong to who until you play through them.
However, thanks to the recent leak and how Pmoon say they have no plan to do a Don extraction on the April 6th does make everything a lot more sussy. It might be because of the Don E.G.O so they can do a W Corp on top but it puts Don back on the radar for me to reconsider the theory of the Introduction Order.
Spoiler for some of the books, Leviathan and Library of Ruina btw.
Going with the lyric theory, we're currently at this portion.
Why'd you make my voice stutter?
Why do truths never matter?
Why'd you curse me with "you're a natural born genius"?
The Natural born genius make it sound like it has to be Yi sang but the first 2 sound really weird and doesn't really fit with his poem. Instead, the whole thing, just like Rodion part in the song, is more of a conversation between 2 individuals. The quips lines up with Don Quixote and Sancho. Sancho, in the book, always tell Don what he's seeing only for Don to make up BS excuses to why that's actually something magical or how the inn is a castle. The natural born genius might actually line up with how Sancho was promised to be made a duke only, when given a chance as a joke, ends up being really good at governorship. Just like Rodion and Sonya, it won't be surprising if the role has been reversed as well for Don Quixote and Sancho, like how Sonya went from a poor prostitute to a revolutionary leader that book Rodion failed to become, Sancho might no longer be an easily fooled farmer and is actually a rich nest kid.
But the biggest factor to consider is really the Chapter 4 art card.
https://i.imgur.com/hfwAnDx.png
The chapter name tells you who it's about. Outcast is Gregor and how he's treated by his family in the book or in this case, as a deserter. Unloving is Rodion and how she acts on impulse and that the focus of Crime and Punishment is about the road to redemption through love. Unconfronting is Sinclair and Kromer and how Sinclair had to be saved by Demain because Sinclair can't muster the courage to face Kromer.
Each of the card also has a scene from the climax of the chapter and the memory of each sinners. Chapter 4 card art however, is an office in Kcorp. Based on the room and how there's a visible fireplace, it looks like a study.
Yisang and Gubo are linked and as we know, Gubo works for Ncorp so Yisang, being a former scientist that works on the gacha system, is likely from N corp as well before he ran which lead to Gubo appearing in Leviathan to chase a runaway who stole the technology of them trying to recreate what Yisang made. This really makes you ask "Why is Kcorp the setting then?"
Meanwhile, who can be considered Unchanging to the point of being delusional, line up with the lyric and also has a rather important moment in the book that takes place in the study? Don Quixote. In the book, when Don returned home after being crowned a knight at an inn to rest and pack up again, his family and friends actually decided to seal up his most prized room, his study, after burning a bunch of his books. Like how Kromer is turned from a minor antagonist into some major, this event can also be written into some major as well because it is the point where Don become even crazier and go on a journey to "Fight his nemesis wizard", dragging Sancho with him.
Also based on the location, we can assume this will take place in either district 11 (Kcorp) or if we move to a new area, District 12. Remember what major event took place near these areas in the past?
The 8 o'clock Circus
The 8 o'clock circus was doing their things at District 12 before retreating to District 10 and in order to get there, they likely have to pass through District 11 so these 3 Districts are the "Circus zone" and we're currently right on them. There's a specific person whose EGO and background is a carnival, Don Quixote. This lines up perfectly with how each base E.G.O art of the identity outright show their major events in their lives that will be revealed in that chapter. Gregor has the smoke war, Rodion has the massacre of her town over what she did and Sinclair has his family.
What do you think? Will it be Yisang? Maybe but I'm really leaning toward Don Quixote now. It's the perfect time for something to happen that result in the the K-corp study being locked away that lead to Don and Sancho going to the circus while they are still in the area.

Hi! I'm looking for some new roleplay partners as I've recently found myself with some free time on my hands and a lot of inspiration. I'll list some stuff I'm interested in and specific things I'm looking for down below. ♡
ABOUT ME/WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR

I write long, detailed replies in the literate style. My length can vary based on what I receive, but for interest's sake I like to keep them from being too absurdly long. Third person is heavily preferred, but I'm not a stickler for tense. I'm looking for someone who is at LEAST 18.
Content wise, I prefer dark and drama filled plots. We can discuss what that means in detail later but, for clarification, I'm not looking for slice of life fluff at the moment. With that said, I'm one hundred percent open to multiple plots and tropes, don't be afraid to suggest things! I'm pretty lenient with fiction. Currently I'm looking for Canons (any gender pairing) I don’t mind if you use OCs for side characters, but I am not a fan of OCs as mains.
Fandom-wise, I'm also a big fan of crossover roleplays as well. But that can be up for you to decide.​
Looking to give ships time to grow, create the chemistry in RP, and enjoy a gradual burn. Prefer the lead in and then 'fade to black' approach for the adult situations.
Main goal is to dig into the canon history and building on it in interesting ways. Appreciate thoughtful & nuanced portrayals that treat canon characters as complex.
I am a literate writer and expect the same from you. One-liners are only acceptable for the interactions that demand them, but they will remain rare. I will not drown you in text every other response, but I will write up to what I feel is appropriate and I expect you to do the same. I average 3-6 paragraphs once we are past introductory material.
Please be open to writing a cast of characters if the plot calls for it. I don't mind if the focus is solely on two people, but there is room for secondary and background characters.
Would love to tailor plots to the specific characters and their potential dynamic. I absolutely love the process of plotting, workshopping ideas, spinning off into AUs and generally finding something that can be really character driven.
Plot-based stuff is going to be all up to discussion. Things can get dark. They can be as dark as you want them to be. On the lighter side, I love the different relationship dynamics that can come of the characters unique personalities. Either way, if you have an idea, spring it on me and we'll see if things work out.
Have an idea for a scene? Found a picture that inspired you? Send it to me! Be invested when it comes to plotting/worldbuilding. There's nothing worse than receiving one sentence in reply to two paragraphs of ideas, or having a doormat partner who says "sure" to whatever I ask. Building ideas one on top of the other, watching them snowball into amazing plot threads brings me joy. But having to pull plot ideas like I'm pulling teeth makes me think you're not interested, and I will lose interest in return.
For now, I'm only looking to write MxF and FxF pairings.
Last but not least, and this is not a requirement, I'm a huge fan of talking about our plot. By that I mean I enjoy making playlists, sharing pinterest boards and random photos that remind us of the characters et cetera. If you're not interested in that, no harm no foul, just something to keep in mind!

FANDOMS/THE CHARACTERS I CAN PLAY IN THEM

Hunger Games (Books & Movies): Clove Kentwell, Katniss Everdeen, Glimmer Belacourt or Annie Cresta.
Harry Potter (Books & Movies): Hermione Granger, Ginny Weasley, Pansy Parkinson or Fleur Delacour.
Scream (All Movies): Sidney Prescott, Tatum Riley, Cici Cooper, Jill Roberts or Tara Carpenter.
DC (Movies/Series & Comics): Harleen Quinzell or Zatanna Zatara.
Star Wars (Movies & Series): Padme Amidala
Marvel (Movies & Series): Wanda Maximoff or Jean Grey.
Twilight (Books & Movies): Rosalie Hale, Jane, Alice Cullen, Isabella Swan.
TVDU (All Series): Rebekah Mikaelson,, Elena Gilbert, Freya Mikaelson, Hayley Marshall or Hope Mikaelson.
American Horror Story (Series): Violet Harmon or Madison Montgomery.
The Boys (Series): Annie January (Starlight) or Margaret Shaw (Meave).

If you're interested, please reach out! You can shoot me a message and we can discuss a bit before adding each other on Discord. Even if I seem familiar, please feel free to reach out again, I'm more active now and very much looking forward to writing with you. Thank you so much!

how do i keep the followers from making demands? they have annihilated my base war support which keeps me from reaching my full potential. i used them a lot to modernize vault city but now it's biting me in the ass.

Hi! I'm looking for some new roleplay partners as I've recently found myself with some free time on my hands and a lot of inspiration. I'll list some stuff I'm interested in and specific things I'm looking for down below. ♡
ABOUT ME/WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR

I write long, detailed replies in the literate style. My length can vary based on what I receive, but for interest's sake I like to keep them from being too absurdly long. Third person is heavily preferred, but I'm not a stickler for tense. I'm looking for someone who is at LEAST 18.
Content wise, I prefer dark and drama filled plots. We can discuss what that means in detail later but, for clarification, I'm not looking for slice of life fluff at the moment. With that said, I'm one hundred percent open to multiple plots and tropes, don't be afraid to suggest things! I'm pretty lenient with fiction. Currently I'm looking for Canons (any gender pairing) I don’t mind if you use OCs for side characters, but I am not a fan of OCs as mains.
Fandom-wise, I'm also a big fan of crossover roleplays as well. But that can be up for you to decide.​
Looking to give ships time to grow, create the chemistry in RP, and enjoy a gradual burn. Prefer the lead in and then 'fade to black' approach for the adult situations.
Main goal is to dig into the canon history and building on it in interesting ways. Appreciate thoughtful & nuanced portrayals that treat canon characters as complex.
I am a literate writer and expect the same from you. One-liners are only acceptable for the interactions that demand them, but they will remain rare. I will not drown you in text every other response, but I will write up to what I feel is appropriate and I expect you to do the same. I average 3-6 paragraphs once we are past introductory material.
Please be open to writing a cast of characters if the plot calls for it. I don't mind if the focus is solely on two people, but there is room for secondary and background characters.
Would love to tailor plots to the specific characters and their potential dynamic. I absolutely love the process of plotting, workshopping ideas, spinning off into AUs and generally finding something that can be really character driven.
Plot-based stuff is going to be all up to discussion. Things can get dark. They can be as dark as you want them to be. On the lighter side, I love the different relationship dynamics that can come of the characters unique personalities. Either way, if you have an idea, spring it on me and we'll see if things work out.
Have an idea for a scene? Found a picture that inspired you? Send it to me! Be invested when it comes to plotting/worldbuilding. There's nothing worse than receiving one sentence in reply to two paragraphs of ideas, or having a doormat partner who says "sure" to whatever I ask. Building ideas one on top of the other, watching them snowball into amazing plot threads brings me joy. But having to pull plot ideas like I'm pulling teeth makes me think you're not interested, and I will lose interest in return.
For now, I'm only looking to write MxF and FxF pairings.
Last but not least, and this is not a requirement, I'm a huge fan of talking about our plot. By that I mean I enjoy making playlists, sharing pinterest boards and random photos that remind us of the characters et cetera. If you're not interested in that, no harm no foul, just something to keep in mind!

FANDOMS/THE CHARACTERS I CAN PLAY IN THEM

Hunger Games (Books & Movies): Clove Kentwell, Katniss Everdeen, Glimmer Belacourt or Annie Cresta.
Harry Potter (Books & Movies): Hermione Granger, Ginny Weasley, Pansy Parkinson or Fleur Delacour.
Scream (All Movies): Sidney Prescott, Tatum Riley, Cici Cooper, Jill Roberts or Tara Carpenter.
DC (Movies/Series & Comics): Harleen Quinzell or Zatanna Zatara.
Star Wars (Movies & Series): Padme Amidala
Marvel (Movies & Series): Wanda Maximoff or Jean Grey.
Twilight (Books & Movies): Rosalie Hale, Jane, Alice Cullen, Isabella Swan.
TVDU (All Series): Rebekah Mikaelson,, Elena Gilbert, Freya Mikaelson, Hayley Marshall or Hope Mikaelson.
American Horror Story (Series): Violet Harmon or Madison Montgomery.
The Boys (Series): Annie January (Starlight) or Margaret Shaw (Meave).

If you're interested, please reach out! You can shoot me a message and we can discuss a bit before adding each other on Discord. Even if I seem familiar, please feel free to reach out again, I'm more active now and very much looking forward to writing with you. Thank you so much!