Out there - Patreon (for all those curious or wanting to support :))
At the Beginning
Adventure Arc - Arc 2
Wilderness Arc - Arc 3
Academy Arc - Arc 4
Previously on Leveling up the World…
 
PERSONAL AWAKENING
​
Orange clouds floated on a purple sky. There had been a time when Dallion would have found such a sight breathtaking, or at the very least remarkable. Now, it was just another day in his realm. Sitting at the top of Onda’s tower, Dallion stared into the distance.
“Hey, old man!” the teen nymph shouted. “You’re messing up the look!”
If there was one person whose arrogance had grown along with Dallion’s it was Onda. The hammer guardian had always seen himself as a genius and, thanks to the Moonstone in the realm, his opinion of himself had grown even further.
“You’ve no idea how much time and skill it took to get it right!”
Funny. Up to today, Dallion hadn’t minded the attitude. In fact, he hadn’t even noticed it.
“I need some assistance,” he said, glancing down.
At the comment, the guardian froze. There was a spark of emotions within him that was quickly subdued.
“She said not to encourage you,” Onda whispered.
“Harp?” Dallion split into a few instances and looked around. “I won’t be doing anything reckless,” he said with a sigh. “It’s forging related.”
“Forging?” The guardian didn’t sound convinced.
“A while back, you said that there are more complicated things than crafting metals. I want to learn magic crafting.”
“Magic crafting?” Onda shivered slightly while saying the magic word.
“Whatever the proper term is. I know you can do it, so—”
“Can’t.” The guardian quickly interrupted. “She said no magic.”
“Seriously?” Dallion grumbled. “Harp!” he shouted in the direction of the harpsisword’s tower.
Other than a few waves, there was no reaction. Harp was determined not to meddle in his development, and that included not helping him with anything magic related, at least for the time being. After what had happened in Lanitol, Dallion would have thought that he’d be given a pass for reasonable requests. Apparently, that wasn’t the case.
In all honesty, his request wasn’t exactly safe or random. The thought of challenging the archduke’s son had made him remember the duel they’d had back in Nerosal, including the origami weapons the noble had used. Creating such a weapon would be very beneficial in more ways than one. For one thing, Dallion was considering upgrading Lux’s home. Having the firebird follow him about like a bladebow with kaleidervisto sights was starting to get bothersome.
“What about enchanting?” Dallion asked. “I’ve already done that many times.”
The nymph shook his head.
“That was temporary.”
Maintaining his calm exterior, Dallion waited for a short while longer, then left his realm. The first thing he felt was a wave of air hitting him in the face. Moments later, his senses returned to normal.
Normally, entering a realm while flying wasn’t the best of ideas, but it didn’t count while on a cloud fort. Initially, Dallion had wanted to avoid the fuss, but when the squad of furies within the cloud had offered to take them, the choice was made for him.
Aware of their emotions, he knew that the offer was extended mostly because of Diroh. While guard furies assisted mages, they rarely went out of their way to catch up to one mid flight. The rumors of her being royalty must have spread.
“You can rest a bit,” the fury told Dallion. He was a seasoned veteran who didn’t have time for all the rank bullshit. “We won’t reach the Academy till tomorrow.”
One additional day. If Dallion had continued flying on his own, he’d have been there by now.
“Any news?” he asked, suppressing a yawn.
“Where do I start? The Azures are gathering armies in the northeast. Mages too. I’m expecting a major clash in a month at most. The new archduke is also positioning her forces. Now that she’s been given the new spot, she can’t afford to mess up.”
It was tempting to crack a smile. It would be nice if Priscord got humiliated in the upcoming battle, but that was unlikely to happen. The emperor had picked her for the position, which meant that he’d back her up with some of his legions. Losing two archdukes in the same area wasn’t something that would look good.
“Lots of crimsons are also there,” the fury continued. “At least we get to enjoy the skies here for a while.”
Dallion nodded. He, too, was going to join them.
“A bunch of rogues formed a new enclave in the west. It’s out of the empire, so no one’s bothering for now. I told some of your lot that it’s a mistake. No one listened.”
“Someone will take care of them.”
The west, at least, was deprived of any presence. Only the Order was slowly spreading in that direction. No wonder the last Star had made his stronghold there.
“There’s been a few skirmishes in the southeast, but nothing major. The Alliance is keeping the Azures in check. Only minor kingdoms are poking about, trying to get themselves noticed by one of the powers.”
“Yes, everyone’s choosing sides.”
That was true and things were only going to get tougher. Settlements, cities, even small countries were quick to ally themselves to one of the three powers. Even before the war began, several of the minor players had made their intentions known. Most had allied to the empire. Now that its position was shaky, they were looking at the other options. It didn’t end with whole settlements either. Guilds and trade organizations had been moving about, going further to the heart of the empire or out of it. Even hunter dens weren’t immune.
Before leaving Lanitol, Dallion had flown by the structure out of a feeling of nostalgia. What he found was an empty lot. He had expected some of the hunters to have gone—there were many dwarves among them. Yet, the building was missing as well. A more optimistic person might have assumed that the hunters had found a way to take their den as they left the city. In reality, it had likely been absorbed by the overseer. Neutrality was a dangerous notion, especially if those proclaiming to be neutral were strong.
“Over a dozen ghost towns have formed on the border,” the fury said. “If they remain too long without a master, the wilderness will take them.”
“That’s how it usually works.”
The fury glanced at Dallion sideways, but didn’t add anything more. It was obvious he wanted to know more about the fury, just as it was obvious that Dallion had no intention of sharing. The moment of calm had given him a while to relax, and now that adrenalin had loosened its grip, less immediate concerns had resurfaced.
Prophecies, he said to himself. So far, he had heard two. The first had come from a nymph sheet acquired years ago. The dwarf hunter who had found it swore that an otherworlder would bring to the end to the world, or at the very least a substantial change. When combined with what Cleric had shared, the worst might have come to pass. It was Dallion who had made it possible for Adzorg to construct his device. If he found the final pieces, he might pop the barrier between worlds like a soap bubble, letting void creatures pour into reality unimpeded.
If there was nothing you could do, the Order wouldn’t have sent you, Gen said from Dallion’s realm. There’s no point in perfect prophecies.
There is if all you need to do is hide, Dallion replied mentally.
If you’re hiding, you’re not doing it very well.
Dallion smiled. His echo had a suitable sense of humor, even if it didn’t help particularly right now.
“What about vortex gleams?” Dallion asked.
“Vortex gleams,” the fury repeated. “There’s talk of a few out east. The crimsons will know more. They don’t tell the rest of us much.”
“Right.” Dallion leaned back in the sea iron mesh that served as a chair. “Wake me up when we get to the Academy. Don’t stop for anything until we get there, not even assists.”
“You’re the mage.”
If the flight was eventful, Dallion never got to learn about it. Over a day, he spent the time sleeping. To a large part, that was to diminish the fatigue that had stacked up in the last six months. More importantly, though, he was hoping to have a Moon dream. With the curse, he hadn’t been getting anything that might help. This time was no different, although it didn’t bring nightmares either. All it brought was a whole lot of blankness: Dallion closed his eyes one moment, then when he opened them again, he was a few hundred feet from the battle mage building. According to the armadil shield, they had been there for hours, but no one had dared wake him up.
How nice of them, Dallion thought and sat up.
The fury on guard was new—far younger than the previous one, tasked with keeping the cloud stable. Everyone else, Diroh included, was gone.
“Where’s everyone?” Dallion cracked his back. Sleeping on war clouds wasn’t as comfortable as people assumed it would be.
“Your novice was escorted into the building, battle apprentice,” the fury replied, using Dallion’s standard title. “All your things were moved to your room as well.”
“And the furies?”
“They were sent out on another cloud. Katka ordered that we leave you to sleep undisturbed, so—”
“I get the picture.”
Dallion cast a spell, rising up from the cloud. Without a word of thanks, he floated straight to Katka’s room on the upper floor of the building, then went inside. The magic symbols on the walls glowed brighter as he passed. Recognizing him as belonging here, they remained in their present state.
The moment he flew in, the room widened, increasing tenfold in size. This wasn’t normal. Katka wasn’t a fan of modifications, preferring to keep things as they were. Ironically, that made many of the Academy mages see her as a snob. In their eyes, illusions weren’t good enough for her, since she resorted to getting the actual physical thing and bringing it here.
The current modification spell had turned the room into a modern Earth corporate office. There was lots of space, full of desks, cheap plants, water coolers and a glass walled meeting room at the far side. Looking closely, Dallion saw four figures gathered there.
Just great, he thought.
The archmage was present along with Katka. The other two were silhouettes made of cloud matter and water, respectively. That meant that the entire Shimmering Circle had gathered to discuss something. Since Dallion had joined, there had been only one similar meeting. Back then, the “woman” Dallion had seen in Gassil’s memory fragment had also been there, even if no one had formally introduced her to him. There were a few more instances in which she had taken shape to discuss something with Katka. As for the last member, he remained completely unknown. Dallion was aware of his existence, but nothing more.
“Dal,” the archmage’s voice echoed throughout the room, as if he were using loudspeakers. “Join us.”
Taking a deep breath, Dallion made his way to the door of the meeting room and went inside. The conference table was large enough to hold eight people. The seat next to Katka was left free, indicating he was supposed to take it.
“This must be important.” Dallion said, using his magic vision in an attempt to see the people behind the constructs. He was able to see the magic threads connecting the forms to invisible portals, but not what lay beyond. “First time I see everyone gathered.”
The sharp look the archmage gave him quickly told Dallion to tone down the humor.
“We heard what happened down south,” the man said. “What are your dealings with the Order?”
“You know I can’t tell you that,” Dallion said calmly. “Moon vows and all that.”
“Convenient.”
“What I can say is that the Azures tried to take out the archduke.” There was a moment’s pause. “And myself.”
“You were targeted?” Katka asked, more surprised than intrigued.
“I guess Grym is still mad at me for last time. They managed to put echoes in a lot of the people at the banquet. Most of them were normies, but there were a few awakened… as well as the local mage.”
“We know,” the archmage said. “Would have been nice to bring one of them alive for questioning.”
“Wasn’t my fault. The archduke absorbed all the evidence. I did manage to get the mage’s robe, though. If there’s anything to be learned, I’ll find it.”
“Such a marvelous ability,” the cloud woman said. “Sometimes you make me envious.”
“That’s not why I called for this,” the archmage hissed. “A messenger arrived from the emperor himself. The vortex gleam that was spotted not too long ago wasn’t the only one. As it turns out, it’s only a drop in the bucket. There have been twenty-seven confirmed sightings, but unlike the last one, the levels are much higher.”
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this story, consider joining my patreon or check out my other stories on redditserials:
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Base Art: A woman in her early thirties with dark brown hair sits at her desk in the middle of a white room. She pores over piles of paperwork, her glasses framing the stern, austere expression on her face and matching the pristine Hana Association uniform she wears. Beside her lie a pair of scales, the weights perfectly even.
Uptied Art: The same woman stands in a dark alleyway. Absentmindedly, a jagged black spear of the standard Hana make cleaves through the head of a fleeing victim. A kinder fate than the subject of her attention, a pitiful figure who is being hoisted by the neck with one hand whilst their head is forced to face the glare of Hana's Inquisitor. In the background, blood forms the shape of an uneven scale on the wall behind them.
Base Stats:
154 Max HP, 3-6 Speed, 35 Defence. Resistances: Slash (Ineffective), Piercing (Fatal), Blunt(Normal).
Skills:
When clashing, Amy has her spear out to the side and behind her. She wins clashes through upward and downward sweeps of her weapon, and loses them with it crossed over her body as she grimaces.
Skill One: Celestial Spear (Gloom)
Attack Type: Piercing. Skill Power: 3. No. of Coins: 1. Coin Power: +8. Offense Level: 32. Growth: 0.7.

1. On Hit: Inflict 3 Rupture. Heads Hit: Reuse this Coin.

Amy lances forward with her spear. If she triggers the Heads Hit effect, she then rips the spear upward and out of the target.
Skill Two: Unyielding Strike (Envy)
Attack Type: Blunt. Skill Power: 5 No. of Coins: 3. Coin Power: +3. Offense Level: 32. Growth: 0.7.

1. Inflict 1 Scrutinized next turn.
2. On Hit: Inflict 2 Rupture.
3. On Hit: Inflict 2 Rupture. Heads Hit: Inflict +1 Rupture Count.

Amy thrusts her unarmed fist forward, jagged black energy radiating from it and knocking the target back. She then sweeps her blade from side to side twice across her body.
Skill Three: Castigate (Pride)
Attack Type: Blunt. Skill Power: 4 No. of Coins: 4. Coin Power: +2. Offense Level: 32. Growth: 0.7.

1. On Hit: Inflict 1 Rupture.
2. On Hit: Inflict 1 Rupture.
3. On Hit: Inflict 1 Rupture.
4. If target is Scrutinized, this coin triggers Rupture twice. On Hit: Reduce all Rupture to 0.

Amy swings a doublehanded overhead blow with her spear. She then grabs the target with her off-hand, choking them, and then runs them through with her forehand. Finally, her leg blackened by Hana's technologies, she kicks the target off of her spear.
Skill Four: Evade
Attack Type: - Skill Power: 4. No. of Coins: 1. Coin Power: 10. Offense Level: 34. Growth: 0.63.
(Scrutinized is an effect that increases the damage of Rupture by 50%. It ticks down every turn.)
Passives:
Thorough Audit(x5 Pride Owned): If an opponent with Rupture loses a Clash, inflict 1 Defence Level Down.
Hana For All(x4 Pride Owned): The ally with the highest SP inflicts +1 Rupture Count.
EGO:
Scales of Themis(Pride, Awakening):
Attack Type: Blunt. Skill Power: 12. No. of Coins: 1. Coin Power: 15. Offense Level: 32. Growth: 0.7.

1. Heads Hit: Apply 9 Rupture. On Hit: Apply 3 Rupture.

Cost: 3x Pride, 2x Wrath
A picture of Amy lying down on a bed, torn books strewn around her and her arm over her anguished face flashes before shattering. Amy then bangs a black gavel upon a wooden desk, before pointing the gavel at the target. "Guilty, guilty, guilty... always the same verdict." A shadow appears over the target, before the shot pans out to reveal a gigantic pair of scales, with one of the weights hanging over the target. The scale tips, and the target is crushed.
EGO Passive:
Themistopóloi: When an ally attack triggers Rupture, self-apply 1 Attack Up next turn. If no allied attacks trigger Rupture, self-apply 1 Fragile for each ally remaining.
Dialogue:
Acquisition: Hello, this is the Hana Association's Western Branch. I'm Amy, Director of Section 2. How can I help you?
Morning Greeting: I've always been a bit of an early bird. Are you the same?
Afternoon Greeting: A quiet lunch sorting my paperwork is a personal joy.
Evening Greeting: We should finish work, get some sleep, and come back refreshed in the morning. It is poor form to enter work fatigued - or, heavens forbid, tardy.
Chatter #1: Make sure to read the manuals provided to you and properly follow the procedures provided. I would hate to have to... reprimand you.
Chatter #2: Do you think a corrupt, selfish individual can truly serve any purpose in a civilised society? No, I thought not.
Chatter #3: No, there's no such rule. I would kn- oh, that was a joke? My apologies. No, I'm not humourless. You're just not funny.
Post-Uptie Chat #1: You know, it's a little unsettling, to have someone who understands. I wouldn't change it, though.
Post-Uptie Chat #2: Sometimes, I wonder whether this idea of good I have is real. But then I look up at the night sky, and it tells me that my path is just.
Idle: Is there something you wanted? My patience isn't unlimited, you know.
Uptying: Perhaps... I can trust you. Please, work with me to find a better outcome.
Deployment: This is Section 2's Director, Amy. Let's get this done.
Stage Entry: Haaah... We should prevail.
Viewed In Battle: I assume there is a reason you are checking in on me?
Commencing Attack: Very well.
Enemy Stagger: Thus always to the unjust.
Staggered: Ggh!
Enemy Killed: An unfortunate necessity.
Ally Death: You'll... be commemorated. I'm sorry.
Check Passed: Yes, just as protocol suggested.
Check Failed: Damn. My mistake. I was clearly not up to the task.
Victory Cry: It's only fair.
Extra Conditions Fulfilled: My contributions to this endeavour cannot be denied. Perhaps now my Section will stop cracking jokes behind my back.
Defeat Wail: Is justice... really just a word?

Title: Graham
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Treatment:
Act 1: - The novel opens with a prologue, set several years after the events of "Red Dragon" and "The Silence of the Lambs." Will Graham, now in his late fifties, lives a reclusive life haunted by his past encounter with Francis Dolarhyde, which left him physically disfigured and emotionally scarred. - News of Hannibal Lecter's escape from captivity once again reaches Graham, reigniting his burning desire for revenge. Determined to bring Lecter to justice, Graham, though aging and crippled, decides to embark on a worldwide manhunt to find the fugitive serial killer. - Graham's first step is to track down any leads on Lecter's whereabouts, relying on his extensive knowledge of the cannibalistic psychiatrist. He delves into the dark corners of the criminal underworld, gathering information and slowly piecing together Lecter's movements.
Act 2: - As Graham follows Lecter's trail across different countries, he becomes aware of rumors suggesting that Clarice Starling, his former colleague, has disappeared and is presumed to be with Lecter. Conflicted by his feelings for Starling and the desire for justice, Graham begins to question her loyalty and motivations. - Graham encounters individuals who have been influenced by Lecter's charismatic manipulations, realizing the extent of his power over people's minds. He navigates dangerous situations, always staying one step behind Lecter, who continues to commit heinous crimes while maintaining an elusive presence. - Throughout his pursuit, Graham's physical limitations and disfigurement pose constant challenges, forcing him to rely on his intellect and psychological insight to outmaneuver Lecter. He becomes consumed by an obsession to capture Lecter, vowing to bring him to justice regardless of the cost.
Act 3: - Graham's relentless pursuit takes him to various cities, each one revealing a darker side of humanity influenced by Lecter's presence. The psychological toll on Graham becomes increasingly evident as he grapples with his own sanity and moral boundaries. - Meanwhile, Starling finds herself deeply entwined with Lecter, living in a world of ambiguous loyalty and psychological manipulation. Lecter exerts his control over her, pushing the boundaries of her identity and morality. Starling's allegiance becomes uncertain, leaving readers guessing whether she will ultimately align with Graham or remain loyal to Lecter. - The psychological warfare between Graham and Lecter intensifies as they exchange messages, each challenging the other's beliefs and probing their weaknesses. The lines between hunter and hunted blur as Graham struggles to maintain his focus and Starling's true intentions remain shrouded in mystery.
Act 4: - In a gripping climax, Graham finally tracks Lecter to his lair, a secluded hideaway where he has orchestrated a web of deception and violence. The confrontation between Graham and Lecter is a battle of wits and psychological manipulation, where their shared history fuels the intensity of their interactions. - Starling's loyalty is put to the ultimate test as she finds herself torn between her connection to Lecter and the realization of his malevolence. The outcome of the final confrontation hinges on her choice, and whether she will choose to break free from Lecter's grip and aid Graham in his pursuit of justice. - The resolution of the novel remains ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation. The choices made by Graham and Starling will have far-reaching consequences, and the fate of their relationship and Lecter's legacy will remain open-ended, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.
Epilogue: - The novel concludes with a sense of uncertainty and lingering questions. Graham, having confronted his nemesis, must confront the aftermath of his obsession and find a way to rebuild his life. Starling's

Hey there, fellow project enthusiasts! Today, I want to dive into a captivating topic that has been revolutionizing the way teams collaborate and boost productivity: the incredible synergy between Miro and Jira. Get ready to unleash the full potential of your workflow as we explore how these two powerhouse tools combine their forces to create a seamless and efficient project management experience.
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Voltes V: Legacy follows the story of three brothers, Steve, Big Bert, and Little Jon Armstrong, and their friends Jamie Robinson and Mark Gordon, as they fight the forces of humanoid aliens known as Boazanians who plans to invade the earth and launch their beast fighters all over the world.
Watch Here<>Voltes V: Legacy Season 1 Episode 26 OnLine Free
"Voltes V: Legacy" just premiered on national TV earlier this month, and avid fans of the show and those kids at heart have shown love for the live adaptation.
Netizens and critics have commended the show for its world-class visual effects, especially the first-ever "volt in sequence." Diehard fans also noticed its opening billboard, which pays homage to the iconic Japanese anime series, "Voltes V."
If you want to catch up on the country's biggest series of 2023, here's where you can watch "Voltes V: Legacy" for free.
​
On TV, the series airs on GMA Telebabad and GTV on Mondays to Fridays at 8 p.m. and 9:40 p.m., respectively.
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Viewers can also join the Kapuso Stream on the GMA Network YouTube channel and participate in the live chat. The full episodes and exclusive online content from behind the scenes are also posted.
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On the GMA Network website and mobile app, you can check out the full episodes and some highlights.
​
Meanwhile, for those outside of the country, you may watch "Voltes V: Legacy" through GMA Pinoy TV in the following countries and cities:
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Vancouver (US Pacific): Mondays to Fridays, 7 p.m.
Toronto (US Eastern): Mondays to Fridays, 10 p.m.
Hawaii: Mondays to Fridays, 4 p.m.
Hong Kong: Mondays to Fridays, 5 p.m.
Singapore: Mondays to Fridays, 9:15 p.m.
Japan: Mondays to Fridays, 6 p.m.
South Korea: Mondays to Fridays, 10:15 p.m.
Guam: Mondays to Fridays, 7 p.m.
Australia: Mondays to Fridays, 11:!5 p.m.
United Arab Emirates: Mondays to Fridays, 4:30 p.m. and 9:20 p.m.
Saudi Arabia: Mondays to Fridays, 3:30 p.m. and 8:20 p.m.
Italy: Mondays to Fridays, 2:30 p.m. and 7:20 p.m.
United Kingdom: Mondays to Fridays, 1:30 p.m. and 6:20 p.m.
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Hi there! I’m Pumpkin/Storm! Today I’m hoping to find literate, 21+ 3rd person roleplayers to do MxM romance plots set in the following universes:
ATLA/LOK Back 4 Blood Big Time Rush (show) Inuyasha Inside Job (Netflix) Komi Can’t Communicate Scooby Doo: Mystery Incorporated Scott Pilgrim (comic) Shameless (only on season 8) Star vs the Forces of Evil Teen Titans (2003) TMNT (2012+AUs) Total Drama Yugioh
All characters will be aged to 21+
I am OCxCanon/double friendly and can do any gender pairing for your side! I do prefer roleplaying with women/people who are LGBTQ+, but this isn’t a requirement.
~Rules~ 1. Please be literate. No text talk or bad grammar (minus OOC chatting). 3rd person only. I don’t expect massive novella responses, but your replies should be detailed and show effort. 2. Please be relatively active. I understand we all have busy lives, however if you ghost or aren’t around for long periods of time, I am not the partner for you. If you aren’t feeling our plot or want to part ways, just communicate! I also sometimes have a terrible memory, so if it’s been more than a few days, (politely) nudge me! 3. Because every plot will be 21+, I am asking that you also be 21+. When you reach out me, your age should be present somewhere in your opening message. 4. Please make your introduction more than “hi”, “wanna rp” etc. Your opening message should state where you are coming from, your age, what you are interested in, writing samples (not required, but certainly a bonus) etc. Messages with little effort will be ignored. 5. Let’s have fun and be friends! Let’s chat OOC and talk about our days! As much as I love roleplaying, I love getting to know my partners as well!
And I think that about covers it! If you’re interested, please shoot me a PM and we can discuss specifics! Thank you for reading and I hope you have a wonderful day!

Introduction: In the last few years, artificial intelligence has emerged as a dominant force in the technology industry. With its ability to automate complex tasks, make predictions, and analyze large amounts of data, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into various industries. The rise of AI has also brought significant changes to the job market. Many established jobs are being replaced or transformed, while new roles and opportunities are emerging. In this post, we will explore whether AI jobs are in demand and what the future holds for those seeking a career in this field.
Subheading 1: The Current State of AI Jobs Artificial intelligence has already disrupted several industries, and the demand for AI-related jobs is on the rise. According to a report by job search engine Indeed, AI-related job postings increased by 29% between 2018 and 2019. Also, the number of AI-related job postings continues to grow, despite the economic uncertainty caused by the ongoing pandemic. The report suggests that the most in-demand AI jobs are in software engineering, data analysis, and machine learning. Many companies are looking for AI professionals who can develop and implement AI systems that can automate tasks, improve customer experiences, and drive business results.
Subheading 2: Benefits of AI Jobs AI jobs offer several benefits, including high-paying salaries, abundant opportunities for learning and growth, and the potential to work on exciting projects that can have a significant impact on society. AI professionals are in high demand and are often sought-after by leading companies in the technology industry. They can also work in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and gaming, among others. AI jobs often involve solving challenging problems, collaborating with diverse teams, and using the latest technologies.
Subheading 3: AI Skills in Demand To succeed in an AI career, professionals need to possess several skills, such as programming languages like Python, R, and Java. They also need to have expertise in machine learning, data science, and natural language processing. AI professionals need to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, tools, and practices in the field. They should also have excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Communication skills are also essential to collaborate with teams and stakeholders effectively.
Subheading 4: AI Job Roles AI job roles can vary depending on the industry and company. AI professionals can work as data scientists, machine learning engineers, software engineers, AI researchers, and AI consultants. Data scientists use statistical analysis and machine learning to extract insights from data. Machine learning engineers develop and deploy AI models that enable machines to learn from data. AI researchers work on cutting-edge AI technologies and techniques to solve complex problems. AI consultants provide guidance and advice to companies on how to implement AI solutions effectively.
Subheading 5: Future of AI Jobs The future of AI jobs looks promising, with the demand for AI professionals expected to continue to rise. AI is expected to transform several industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail. It will create new job roles and opportunities, such as AI trainers, AI ethicists, and AI auditors, among others. However, the rise of AI will also require a shift in the skills required by professionals, and there may be a need for more interdisciplinary skills, such as human-centered design and data ethics.
Subheading 6: Upskilling for AI Jobs AI is a rapidly evolving field, and AI professionals need to upskill continually to stay relevant. They need to learn new programming languages, AI models, and techniques. They can take courses, attend seminars and conferences, and participate in online communities to expand their knowledge. Many companies also offer training and development programs to their employees to help them acquire new AI skills and techniques.
Conclusion: In conclusion, AI jobs are in high demand, and the future looks promising. AI professionals can expect high-paying salaries, abundant opportunities for learning and growth, and the chance to work on exciting projects that can have a significant impact on society. However, to succeed in an AI career, professionals need to upskill continually and stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and practices in the field. In summary, the field of AI is still in its infancy, and the potential for innovation and growth is enormous.

Advanced Crafted Consoles and New R&D batteries

Hello everyone.
This week we received an update; a shakup to the meta...potentially. If anything, this is a great addition to the toolkits builders have. Four new Advanced R&D Consoles were released, two science and two engineering.
In addition, we also see an upgrade to alternative, improved even, batteries.

Advanced Consoles - Unlocked for all characters

These consoles have a unique property which allows slotting only one of a specific profession of consoles. You can still slot multiple of them, and their effects stack, but you can only have one of Science, Engineering, or Tactical. While we only got two new crafted types, the signifying mark for these equip limit consoles "Advanced" has been applied to the Spire Tactical Vulnerability exploiters and locators.
This means that to use these new consoles, we have to remove the existing locators and exploiters on our ships to slot the new consoles, a common issue I've seen people have over the last couple of days.
This doesn't mean that our Spire consoles are invalid, just that we have new tools at our disposal for building. Additionally, all the new consoles plus the existing spire consoles have been given re-engineering capability.

New Science Consoles

• Console - Advanced Science - Energy Field Gradient Projector
  
  • This Console adds a Shield Siphon enhancement to Drain effects, Draining Foe Shields and Healing the user's Shields. Each Console equipped improves the power accordingly, so 3 Consoles makes it 3x as strong and so on. The amount Drained scales with Drain Expertise and the amount of Shield Healed scales with both Shield Healing and Drain Expertise.
  • Defeating a Foe during Shield Siphon provides a stack of Analysis (max 50) until the player is defeated or leaves the map. Each Console provides increased Hull Penetration per stack of Analysis.
  • Note: These consoles might be currently bugged and not applying to nearly all drains; things that specifically call out -All power over a period of time appear to be the only things this console effects. Shield Drains, single time power drains, and discrete subsystem drains are not applying this consoles effect. This could be bugged, this could be the consoles intent. It's hard to know for sure right now.
• Console - Advanced Science - Exotic Particle Amplifier
  
  • This Console provides Base BOFF Ability Damage based on EPG (up to 500) and Bonus non-BOFF Ability Exotic Damage based on your EPG (up to 500).

New Engineering Consoles

• Console - Advanced Engineering - Isomagnetic Plasma Distribution Manifold
  
  • The most straightforward of the bunch, this console improves Weapon Power and Max Weapon Power. It stacks with all other forms of Max Weapon Power.
• Console - Advanced Engineering - Hangar Craft Power Transmission
  
  • This Console improves the Weapon Power and Max Weapon Power of pets, as well as providing Bonus Torpedo damage to them. The buffs are increased by 40% per Rank, so 5 star Hangar pets receive +200% of the bonus, or 3x total. Max 25 pets affected.

**Note: As well, currently these are bound to character on equip, rather than account on equip like everything else from R&D crafting. This is also unknown if this is a bug, oversight, or intentional.

New Batteries - Unlocked at rank 10 Crafting schools

These share the same cooldown as the normal batteries of each kind, and have the same magnitudes in buffs, however they gain a secondary effect:

• Beams: Advanced Battery - Energy Amplifier
  • +30 Shield Penetration Skill (+1.5% Shield Pen)
• Cannons: Advanced Battery - Targeting Lock
  • +1.5% Critical Chance (global)
• Engineering: Advanced Battery - Hull Patch
  • +50 Damage Control Skill
• Projectiles: Advanced Battery - Kinetic Amplifier
  • +5% Critical Severity to projectile weapons
• Science: Advanced Battery - Exotic Particle Flood
  • +5 Aux Power (just adds power, doesn't increase the maximum)
• Shields: Advanced Battery - Shield Resilience Boost
  • +50 Starship Shield Regeneration Skill

How to craft

Already we have a list of where the new resources for these cartable come from. These consoles require materials that are dropped from the elite R&D task force operation rewards for completing Elite TFOs. Each has a chance to drop one of the 4 new materials, with 5 total being needed to crafted the new consoles. Additionally, these are also where you get the new [Component - Advanced Battery Superconducting Loop], which are needed to craft the new batteries. A list of materials and sources for these new consoles can be found here on the wiki.

• Are you planning on using any of these new consoles? If so what interests you the most?
  
• How do you feel about the equip limit on these? Would you rather have these at a maximum of 1 console per ship without the equip limit like we've seen with the other science and engineering crafted consoles?
  
• If this system persists, what ideas would you like to see for future consoles?
  
• Are there improvements you would like to see on these consoles?
  

As always, Happy building!

(this is a long one, clocking in at over 1600 words. Enjoy!)
Madoka Magica has often been called a “deconstruction” of the magical girl genre, and while many fans refute that claim, it’s clear that it at least offers a darker twist on many of the tropes beloved and well-known in the genre. These tropes include the transformation trinket, the cuddly mascot, the monster of the week, magical girls having a secret double life, magical girls themselves being child heroines, and even the concept of why magical girls fight in the first place.
One of the biggest examples of these tropes being twisted is the magical girl transformation trinket, which in this series are Soul Gems. In more conventional magical girl series, transformation items are pretty, flashy items that enable the girl to transform from her civilian form to her magical girl form- and to be frank, serve the double purpose of selling toys and merchandise in the real world.
In PMMM, Soul Gems are beautiful Faberge egg-like items that serve the same purpose. It turns out though, that their name is very literal; they are gems that serve as containers for the magical girl’s soul (or may even be her crystallized soul, it’s not really made clear). Soul Gems are formed when magical girls make a contract with Kyubey and are the source of their powers. Moreover, because her soul has been ripped out of a magical girl’s body, her body cannot function unless her Soul Gem is within a few hundred feet of what is now her soulless husk.
In more traditional magical girl shows, transformation trinkets sometimes get stolen, misplaced, etc with no ill effect for their users except for an inability to transform. In PMMM, this is a literal death sentence unless the Soul Gem can be recovered (as displayed in episode 6, when Madoka tosses away Sayaka’s Soul Gem in an attempt to prevent her and Kyoko from fighting). The consequences of this are actually explored in one of the routes of the Madoka Magica PSP game; Sayaka is separated from her Soul Gem in a Witch’s barrier, and it takes Kyoko days to find it. In that amount of time, her body began to literally rot.
The next concept I want to explore is that of the cuddly mascot. Magical girl mascots are a common feature in many shows, from the Moon Cats in Sailor Moon to Cerberus in Cardcaptor Sakura to the many, many mascots in the Precure franchise. In all of these series, the mascots act as friends and often mentors to their magical girl companions; in most series, they are also responsible for empowering/awakening their magical girls.
In PMMM, Kyubey initially seems to be much the same. He is a cute, cuddly creature who is responsible for creating and guiding magical girls. Pretty soon however, it becomes clear that Kyubey is a sinister figure. His contracts don’t seem very benevolent; they seem exploitative, taking advantage of girls when they’re at their lowest point. And unlike the Senshi in Sailor Moon or the Cures in Precure, it quickly becomes apparent that the magical girls in PMMM are dealing with much higher stakes- at least, when it comes to their own wellbeing.
PMMM almost seems to ask the question: what kind of creature would give superpowers to children and send them to fight monsters that could very easily kill them? Even Kyubey’s appearance is highly implied to be a carefully calculated façade meant to lure teenage girls into a false sense of security and make them feel drawn to him. For example, Kyubey uses this to his advantage when he plays up his helplessness to Madoka in episode 1 when he’s being hunted down by Homura. In reality, the Incubator’s true appearance- as seen in Rebellion- are implied to be mechanical structures with giant eyes in the middle; a very alien appearance suiting their alien origins and psychology.
Speaking of child heroines, PMMM also addresses the magical girl tropes of the child heroine and the double life. In most magical girl shows, being a teenaged (or even child/preteen) magical girl is portrayed as an exciting, glamorous, heroic position. The role of magical girl is often contrasted against the mundane, yet still charming and school and civilian life. Magical girls often work hard to maintain the secret of their alter egos from their (non-magical girl) friends and family, although in some series the secret does come to light. However, the girls are usually able to enjoy a healthy balance between their personas.
In PMMM, magical girls seem more like child soldiers than glamorous heroines. Being young girls and not hardened adults, many magical girls face severe psychological trauma from the life they’re thrust into- much life real-life child soldiers. Most magical girls made their contracts without truly getting to think about their wish or the consequences of being a magical girl for the rest of their lives. And because getting enough Grief Seeds is literally life-or-death, they must spend most of their free time patrolling for Witches.
We get a good look at the toll being a magical girl takes on one’s social life through Mami’s character; supplementary materials reveal that she was once a popular girl who had a lot of friends, but after she was forced to contract in the same accident that killed her parents, she slowly lost all her friends because she had no time to do anything else but train, hunt Witches, fight Witches, etc in her free time. In episode 3, when Madoka talks about how she wants to be a magical girl, Mami outright tells her that the life of a magical girl is a lonely one and Madoka will no longer have time for things like boys or hanging out with her friends after school. Even in Magia Record- an alternate timeline that offers a much more positive look at the PMMM-verse- most magical girls are only friends with each other.
Another major example of a trope being twisted is that of the “monster of the week.” Most magical girl series have the girls fight monsters, and in many of those series the monsters are created from human beings. Sailor Moon and the Precure franchise are two standout examples of this. For example, in the fifth season of the 90s anime adaptation of Sailor Moon, people who don’t have “true” Star Seeds will turn into monsters called Phages if their Star Seeds (ie, souls) are ripped out. A similar phenomenon happens in Heartcatch Precure, with the added bonus of the victim’s consciousness eternally reliving the same state of despair that made them vulnerable in the first place. In all of these series, however, the magical girls are able to heal the victims and restore them to their former selves. Sometimes, if the monstevictim is a loved one or someone else known to them, they can even do a “I know you’re in there somewhere” plea to help them to break free.
PMMM takes the true horror of this concept up to eleven. Moreover, the victims aren’t regular people- they’re the magical girls themselves, and this fate is inevitable. Every magical girl, if she doesn’t die in battle against a Witch, will become a Witch herself who spreads despair and kills innocent people until the day she is put out of her misery by another magical girl. And she will be in misery; the Rebellion movie shows that Witches relive the worst moments of their lives over and over again and are psychologically tortured. A lot of Witches also seem to be in ironic hells. For example, Charlotte can create any dessert she wants except for cheese or cheesecakes, which is her favorite food. Roberta is surrounded by lascivious men (her familiars) who annoy her. And of course, every Witch was once a magical girl who once spread hope and saved people and now does the opposite.
It’s also made abundantly clear that once the Witch transformation happens, it’s over. There’s no saving someone. The only person in canon who is able to actually get results is Madoka- aka an actual goddess with huge karmic potential- and it comes with caveats (in one, later timeline she brings Sayaka back from the dead after she became Oktavia, and in Rebellion she is able to reverse Homura’s transformation into Homulilly- although afterwards Homura still needs to be brought into the Law of Cycles like any other magical girl about to become a Witch). In episode 9, when Kyoko and Madoka try to reach out to Sayaka’s inner self when Kyoko fights Oktavia, it ends in Kyoko’s death because nothing of Sayaka remains.
In most magical girl shows, the monsters of the week are just ineffectual mooks who are fodder for the evil organization opposing the magical girls. But in PMMM, they are mirrors of the magical girls themselves, agents of chaos and despair who present a very real threat to the magical girl’s lives- not to mention the lives of any unfortunate people who stumble across them.
Finally, I want to examine the topic of why magical girls fight in the first place. In most series, there is a group of villains who pose a threat to humanity/the Earth/etc and magical girls must oppose them. There is a very real external threat being faced.
In PMMM however, the beings that empoweperpetuate magical girls and are ultimately the threat are one and the same. Because the tragedy of PMMM is that magical girls are fighting against a self-perpetuating cycle; magical girls form contracts, magical girls become Witches, more magical girls form contracts and fight the Witches, and on and on it goes. Magical girls are their own enemy, in a sense.
I’m sure there are lots of tropes I’m forgetting, but this essay is already over 1,600 words long, lol. I might make a part 2 at some point, so give me your ideas!

I was practicing writing orders and decided to use the game that I love as an artistic example of what a military operation should look like. The order is rudimentary and simple. Ive omitted some COAs and specified and implied tasks. Its also not perfect but here you are I'm welcome to any criticism by anyone who knows RLTW.
------GIGANTIC WALL OF TEXT LMAO--------
Raid Operations Order example.
​
References: ADP 5-0, Ranger Handbook
​
SITUATION
a. Enemy Forces:
The enemy, Clan (X), occupies a 6-story sheet metal base with multi-tool cupboard extensions. They have conducted two merge raids in the past 24 hours, controlling large oil rig and underwater labs for the past 48 hours. The enemy has an estimated (X) number of members. Our mission is to assault their base and destroy their ability to project influence in the area.
​
b. Friendly Forces:
Our raiding force consists of (X) highly trained and motivated raiders. The Allied clan will provide support by constructing a tower parallel to our position to provide 360-degree security and cordon the raid. Our objective is to conduct a foundation wipe on the enemy's base and establish control, allowing freedom of movement for resource collection in the area.
​
c. Terrain and Weather:
The objective area is located in a snowy environment. The operation will be conducted under cold conditions, requiring cold protection measures for our personnel. The terrain is predominantly open fields with some natural cover.
​
MISSION
Our mission is to conduct a raid on Objective (X) to destroy the enemy's ability to project influence in the area and establish control over key locations such as large oil rig and underwater labs. This raid will enable friendly forces to freely extract resources from the area and assert our dominance.
​
EXECUTION
a. Concept of Operations:
The raid will be executed in several phases, each designed to achieve specific objectives and ensure the successful completion of the mission. These phases include Shaping Operations (Phase 0), Deter and Deceive (Phase I), Seize the Initiative (Phase II), Dominate (Phase III), and Stabilize (Phase IV).
​
Phase 0 - Shaping Operations:
During this phase, we will conduct aggressive actions to weaken the enemy's defenses. Two sets of two MLRS strikes will be executed, respectively 6 and 3 hours prior to the raid. Intelligence gathering efforts will include drone reconnaissance, naked scouting, and timing the enemy's activities to identify vulnerabilities.
​
Phase I - Deter and Deceive:
In this phase, we will employ aggressive deception tactics to confuse and divert the enemy's attention. Openly discussing raiding another target in chat will create the perception that our focus is elsewhere. Additionally, targeted harassment against other groups using a small percentage of our resources will further distract the enemy.
​
Phase II - Seize the Initiative:
During this phase, we will execute a swift assault to seize the initiative and establish our dominance. The scheme of maneuver is as follows: Raider Team 1 will initiate the movement from our base to the raider's base, commencing 15 minutes before the templated raid time. They will maintain stealth and noise discipline to avoid detection. Raider Team 2 will establish the raid base rapidly, setting up defenses such as auto turrets and compound walls under the guidance of the raid base leader.
​
Phase III - Dominate:
In this phase, we will exert our full force to dominate the enemy and destroy their base. Each raider will participate in launching a relentless assault using rockets. The objective is to launch one row of rockets at the enemy base's foundation and level one floor at a time, systematically weakening the structure until the foundation is completely wiped. The rocket leader will coordinate the rocket strikes and ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
​
Phase IV - Stabilize:
In this final phase, we will consolidate control over the objective area. All raiders will eliminate any remaining threats and secure the raid base. The raid base leader will be responsible for ensuring its security and maintaining operational readiness.
​
LOGISTICS
a. Resupply:
Resupply will be conducted via mini-copter in the event that additional ammunition is required. The raid base will have a Tier 3 workbench with enough crafting materials to accommodate 400 meds and 3000 rounds of 5.56 ammunition.
​
b. Medical Support:
All players will have a bed platform half a grid before the raid base location and one bed in the raid base. Additionally, there will be three additional sleeping bags available. Medical support will be limited, as players can respawn.
​
c. Transportation:
All raiders will proceed on foot to the objective area. Rockets will be carried by hand to ensure mobility and readiness.
​
d. Weapons and Equipment:
Each raider will carry one AK with a full kit and a jacket. They will also carry 14 meds, 3 wood walls, 200 cloth, and two rows of rockets. These provisions will enable them to engage the enemy effectively and sustain their operations during the raid.
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e. Raid Base Setup:
The raid base will be established to support our operations. It will include necessary defensive measures such as auto turrets and compound walls to secure our position and protect our raiders.
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COMMAND AND SIGNAL
a. Command:
The raid leader will exercise overall command and provide guidance throughout the operation. Subordinate leaders will execute their assigned tasks and coordinate with the raid leader as necessary.
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b. Signal:
Communication will primarily occur via Discord, utilizing voice channels and text chat for coordination. Priority speaker roles will be assigned to the raid leader, rocket leader, and raid base leader to ensure clear and effective communication.
​

If seasons are going to force us to grind renown all over again, the most boring mechanic in this game, and a huge game breaker for seasonal content, then Blizzard needs to make the last section of the renown grind (ie the paragon points section) less grindy, or more natural to obtain. In its current state no one is going to farm statues again, and this means you have to do literally everything else in the area to hit the renown cap to make up the difference.
Imo cellars in every zone should give renown when completed, and provide at least 150 renown total to cut done on the amount of side quests players will have to do for full renown completion. The main reason people don't want to grind renown again is because of the last renown section. Side quests are not fun, and statues are not fun. Even imo being forced to do dungeons i dont want to do is extremely annoying, especially when i get hit with the Kill All, even if i drop to tier 1 to get completions faster.
Right now clearing a cellar has 0 benefits. The chest is not even worth the time. Tbh i don't even care if theres goblins in there because they only drop junk anyways. Wheres the goblins that drop obols, like blood shards in D3. Wheres the goblins that open portals to new zones. Wheres the portals to Greed / Avarice boss for tons of loot. Really lackluster.

Pre-Season 1 timeline
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Eobard Thawne was born in the 22nd century. He became obsessed with the superhero known as "The Flash" and desired to become him. Thawne created a machine that gave him access to the Negative Speed Force, which granted him super speed like the Flash. However, his plan to save a crowd from a threat was foiled by Barry Allen, who had time-traveled to the 22nd century. This event infuriated Thawne, turning his admiration into deep hatred for the Flash. He decided to become the reverse of everything the Flash stood for and sought to destroy his life.
Thawne traveled back in time to Barry Allen's original period in 2015, where he learned about Team Flash and Harrison Wells. He vowed to uncover the Flash's true identity and eliminate Barry once and for all. Thawne then returned to his own timeline.
Eventually, Thawne discovered that the Flash's true identity was Barry Allen. He traveled back to the year 2000 with the intention of killing a young Barry Allen. However, he encountered the Barry Allen of 2023, who had also traveled to the past due to the Negative Speed Force's influence.
Barry and Thawne engaged in a fight inside Barry's childhood home. Barry managed to save his younger self and his father by removing them from the house. Thawne, in an attempt to traumatize Barry and prevent him from becoming the Flash, decided to kill Barry's mother.
This act caused Thawne's connection to the negative speed force to become unstable. The Flash's existence was crucial for Thawne to become the Reverse Flash in the future. To return home, Thawne realized he needed to create the Flash himself.
​
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Season 1 - Season 8
Thawne decides to steal Wells' identity because he knows that Wells creates the particle accelerator in 2020, which grants the Flash his powers. However, Thawne wants this event to occur much earlier. So, Thawne pretends to be Wells and builds the particle accelerator, causing it to explode in 2014 and giving Barry Allen his powers.
Thawne then acts as Barry's mentor, guiding and grooming him to become the Flash, which succeeds. Thawne's connection to the speed force starts to stabilize, allowing him to eventually return home. However, The Flash thwarts Thawne's plan to return, and Eddie sacrifices himself, erasing Thawne from existence, at least temporarily.
After the events of Season 1, the Negative Speed Force brings Thawne back to life, as it is meant to protect its users from timeline changes. However, Thawne's connection to it remains unstable. Nevertheless, it stabilizes enough to revive Thawne at a later time. Thawne once again assumes the identity of Harrison Wells, as it is the face Barry is most familiar with. We see Thawne again during the crossover event Crisis on Earth-X.
Thawne then travels to the future, where he is captured by CCPD and imprisoned using Cicada's dagger. He manipulates Barry's daughter, Nora, into destroying the dagger, enabling his escape. Thawne then reappears in Season 6, possessing Nash's body, but is eventually expelled when the Negative Speed Force particles are forced out of Nash's body.
In Season 7, Thawne regains his original body and helps Barry defeat Godspeed. After the battle, Thawne tries to fight Barry but finds that Barry has become too fast for him to defeat. In Season 8, Thawne creates the Reverse-Flashpoint by ensuring that he, not Barry, is struck by lightning and gains superhuman abilities.
The Reverse-Flashpoint is undone, almost erasing Thawne from existence, until Barry removes his powers. Following this, Thawne is imprisoned by Argus. However, Thawne's powers are later restored by the Negative Forces, turning him into the Negative Avatar. He fights against Barry, the Positive Avatar, and ultimately kills himself due to an energy overload.
And thus, the timeline of Eobard Thawne comes to an end.
​

"You seem surprised, Doctor. Please be assured that the change of equipment will not affect the completion of my mission. If you are really concerned, I can change back into my previous attire before entering Rhodes Island. No need? Good."
Basic Information

【 Codename 】	Executor
【 Gender 】	Male
【 Experience 】	7 years
【 Place of Birth 】	Laterano
【 Date of Birth 】	July 7th
【 Race 】	Sankta
【 Height 】	181 cm
【 Infection Status 】	Medical tests have confirmed that no infection is present.

Physical Examination

【 Strength 】	Excellent
【 Mobility 】	Standard
【 Endurance 】	Standard
【 Tactical acumen 】	Excellent
【 Combat skill 】	Excellent
【 Arts adaptability 】	Standard

Profile

Executor, the Laterano Notarial Hall's legal and professional executor, is in charge of enforcing the rights of the Laterano Citizen numbered one through thirteen.
He now has the title "Saint" bestowed upon him by the present Pope of Laterano, Yvangelista XI. Laterano has not barred this "Saint" from contacting us; the collaboration between the Laterano Notarial Hall and Rhodes Island is growing stronger by the day. Operator Executor is still under contract to serve Rhodes Island and carry out activities pertaining to the rights of Laterano citizens.

Clinical Analysis

Imaging tests reveal clear, normal outlines of internal organs, and no abnormal shadows have been detected. Originium granules have not been detected in the circulatory system and there are no other signs of infection. At this time, this operator can be confirmed to be uninfected.
[Cell-Originium Assimilation] 0% Operator Executor shows no signs of Oripathy infection.
[Blood Originium-Crystal Density] 0.13u/L A slight increase in blood Originium-Crystal density. It's not particularly dangerous, but it deserves more attention. So, what's the word, has his interpersonal relationship been trending upwards lately? Has anyone looked into it?--Medic Operator T.O.

Archive File 1

Despite the title "Saint", Operator Executor is still associated with the Laterano Notarial Hall. As an executor, the Notarial Hall retains the authority to send assignments to him, and the added special title does not appear to have had a significant impact on his work.
Executor, who has returned to Rhodes Island, has changed, at least in appearance, from what they were previously.
According to Executor, as well as the explanations and additions of several enthusiastic operators, we have learned that the clothing currently worn by Executor is provided entirely by the Lateran Church, and that the choice of materials for this carefully cut special clothing is very different from that of ordinary clothing, with emphasis not only on aesthetic comfort but also on its practicality——with Executor's permission, we have carried out a series of tests on his coat, which have shown that the uniforms provided by the Lateran church for Executor offers protection against impact and puncture, and even a degree of protection against explosives.
In addition to this, the two firearms carried by Executor also caught the attention of some of Sankta operators. When fighting with the two firearms, Executor's combat style becomes more aggressive and varied in his attacks than before.
"During the last mission, Federico used his gun to directly knock out any enemy that came near him." Operator Spuria commented, "I can see this guy finishing the mission even if he was given a stick or left empty-handed, his combat style isn't even related to his guns."
"Huh? Then why the special look, you ask?"
"Because everyone thinks it's more imposing, of course!"
[Engineering Department permission log]
Regarding the mechanical flying object that follows Executor around, I initially thought it was just some kind of unique looking drone. However, I've seen it in action in Executor's battle logs, and it was probably more than a mere support drone, it had more functions......
But even Executor himself didn't know much about it; according to him, it had been handed to him directly by his Holiness, their Pope.
What secrets are in this little thing? It's tickling, if only I could try to dismantle it sometime to see ......

Archive File 2

"Operator Executor has been asking more questions."
This is a sentiment shared by various operators within Rhodes recently.
Yes, certain changes with Executor have been visible in recent times - it's not that Executor has suddenly become emotionally outgoing and easy to read. That is by no means the case. Simply put, people don't react too strongly when a person who consistently receives 90 points receives an extra mark, but they do so when a person who consistently submits blank papers suddenly begins writing seriously. Of course, everyone would notice this immediately.
Such is the case of Executor. Many operators who had encountered Executor similarly mentioned in casual conversations - that Executor had started asking them questions.
"He asked me why I didn't just kidnap the client." "Haha, you're already lucky, he asked me why I didn't just blow up the building to prevent the mission target from escaping ......" "...... How did you respond?" "What else could I have replied with, I just decided to tell him the truth; it saves more of the hassle. Blowing up the building for a mission seems good and all, but it's the follow-up that makes it rather difficult to do!" "He listened?" "Yes. What about your side?" "Er, more or less, it's quick to kidnap people right away, but that would be too much trouble." "Executor he...... He said that although he couldn't understand, after taking everything else into consideration, he admitted that our method was more reasonable and efficient......
Executor's abnormal behavior has caused some concern, and combined with recent feedback from some operators, we can speculate that Executor is trying to incorporate more factors into his thinking about the reasonableness of his actions, and that he seems to be incorporating practice and constantly trying to accomplish tasks in a better and more reasonable way.
"I feel like he's just recently added some new algorithm. It's a bit better than before, but there are still times when he derives some strange results." "You mean the time he tackled a group of bandits, covered in blood and was still ready to pacify his target like you suggested, but ended up scaring people half to death because of his expressionless face?"
[Medical Department Work Record]
I have had feedback from my officers that Executor seems to be suspecting that he is suffering from some sort of illness, as evidenced by occasional actions that take precedence, some of which seem puzzling to Executor himself. As a result, he is visiting the medical department for regular medical check-ups rather unnecessarily frequently.
"It's right to focus on regular health checks, and that's a good thing." The medical officer who complained to us had a tone of helplessness: "But he really doesn't have anything wrong with him at all except his head. Really."
Off-topic:
Some of our department's officers were also pleased with the performance of Executor and are discussing to make him into a typical textbook example, to be used as a reminder to patients who really need to be checked but refuse to do so.

Archive File 3

[Transcript of internal conversation in Hall 5, 1]
Federico is an excellent executor. Yes, I can vouch for that. It is not clear why His Holiness would confer the title of "saint" on him at such a sensitive point, but if he is a good young man, I think he is capable of undertaking and meeting His Holiness's expectations.
About Federico's background? There are no problems with his background, I remember that his parents were also attached to the Fifth Office and the file should be at...... Just a moment, let me look for the records. Ah, here they are, the Giallo's, both legal executors attached to the Notarial Hall, very good and capable, but unfortunately both were killed in the line of duty during a mission fifteen years ago. Federico would have been about ten years old at the time? Poor kid.
So what made you suddenly look into Federico's affairs? Just because of the "saints"?
...... Arturia Giallo, you ask?
...... First of all, I must make one thing clear:
Federico's file was rigorously vetted at the time of his induction and there was no problem with the process.
Remember that. This is the premise on which we will move on.
Arturia Giallo, whose father and Federico's father were cousins, is very clearly documented in the file and there is nothing to hide. After the Giallo's were killed in the line of duty, Federico stayed in the home of this cousin for a period of time, about...... two to three years, I think, after which he entered secondary school and began to live there.
By the way, it was Federico, who was a newcomer at the time, to first find out about Arturia's crimes seven years earlier, which forced her to leave Laterano. As a result, Arturia's wanted mission has been in his hands all these years. The young man's first case always has a special significance, I think.
No, I don't think there's anything wrong with that. We did a detailed investigation during the time when Arturia first became wanted, and as far as I know, Federico and Arturia were never close to each other, and that doesn't affect his work; Federico's performance has always said it all. [Transcript of internal conversation in Hall 5, 2]
Arturia had a week's stay at the Ambrosius Abbey, after which we judged that she would go to Leithanien, the report of which I have submitted to the Notarial Hall.
I cannot reveal in advance the follow-up and related matters that His Holiness the Pope has arranged.
Sister?
In terms of kinship, Arturia is only a distant relative to whom I do not need to use such titles, questions like these are meaningless.

Archive File 4

The name "Saint" may remind us of the saints of the Iberian Inquisition, which, although originally a term of respect taken from the Laterano religion, has now been digested by Iberia and is known to the Iberian people as a unique cultural expression of its own.
For the Laterans, the term "Saint" is not simply a casual term.
In all the texts relating to Laterano history, there are accounts of the first generation of saints who built stone towers and founded sacred cities. This first group of Sanktas led the people to build the foundations of Laterano, and generations of people have continued to make peace for a thousand years, creating the peaceful Laterano that exists today, far from the fires of war.
Apart from the first sages who founded the city-state, it is only the Pope who is given the title of "Saint" at the time of his appointment, which is not only an honour but also an important responsibility to lead all Sanktas and guide the city. For thousands of years, the title of "Saint" has been passed down from one pope to the next without exception - and this millennium-old tradition was broken by the decision of Yvangelista XI.
Federico Giallo became the first Saint to be elected outside the millennium.
Why such a surprising election? Executor was, undoubtly, an excellent executor, but it's not as if there were no more valiant combatants in Laterano, no lack of more devout believers, no shortage of prestigious figures, and everyone had the same question - why Federico? Why would he be worthy of the title?
Despite Executor's remarkable performance, his seemingly unaffected attitude and the unique atmosphere of the Laterano made the event somewhat less shocking, there was no denying that His Holiness' decision was completely unorthodox and alarming.
For what reason did this wise and current Pope take this decision and what signal is he sending by doing so? Executor told us that the Pope had mentioned a disaster coming to this land, but what kind of disaster would make the holy city of Laterano, which has been at peace for a thousand years, take such urgent measures?
Federico Giallo was his first choice, what comes after that? Will we see a second or third unconventional saintly eminence elected in Laterano?
Dr Kal'tsit seems to be quite concerned about Executor and the news about Laterano, I think...... Perhaps we should prepare for this in advance as well.
[Excerpt from Kal'tsit's private journal]
There is no doubt that this is a warning from the machine in Laterano, that a disaster is coming, and we all know full well that Laterano cannot be left alone in it, or even ...... The disaster will be the first to destroy Laterano.
And the so-called "saints" were undoubtedly the solution chosen by Evangelista XI to deal with it.
"The Saints" ...... The one who guides all the Sanktas on their journey?
Well, there will never be just one guide, and perhaps soon we will see more of these exceptions, more of the unconventional Laterano "saints".
They will be the cornerstone of Laterano, the hope visible in the midst of calamity, the choice when all is naught.
As for the disaster......
I still cannot give a definite answer, although that answer is becoming clearer in my mind.
Too many precursors, too many traces.
It'll be coming soon, fast.

Promotion Record

Executor has noticed that he occasionally lapses into thought.
After the mission at the Ambrosius Abbey, his thoughts often lagged, and Executor decided that he had stumbled upon his most difficult situation to date.
Letting emotions get in the way of action was something Executor could not understand. The rationality of action, that was the dilemma that plagued him.
He had not yet reached a clear conclusion. But Executor knows exactly how to act - all he has to do is still do his job, no different from before.
If there is a problem, try to solve it.
If you have doubts, find someone to solve them.
[Transcript]
"I saw Executor the other day ...... Yes, that Executor."
"Ah, I know, it's the one all of you from the dorms were head over heels for, right?"
"We gave up a long time ago! But I saw, I saw him actually pondering over a flower ......"
"......Did one of you sneak off again?"
"No! That's not what happened! He had a weird serious look on his face, like he was thinking about some mega dilemma, and I didn't even dare to say hello to him."
"...... Hmmm ...... I get it then."
"What do you understand?"
"Calm down and think about it, it mustn't be a normal situation to have that Executor pondering so much."
"Oh, oh?"
"Can you really be sure that it's flowers he's holding? Not some kind of bomb or auxiliary prop? It's just in the form of a flower, so maybe it's some new kind of mine?"
"...... When you say it like that, it feels like it really could be that, sigh......"
"That's right, it shouldn't be some simple flower, it's very difficult to make sense of."
"That makes sense...... I saw him hand it to the Doctor afterwards, do you think it could have something to do with a classified mission?"

Most are all in my "gift inventory" and the trades for the most part go all through STEAM for both parties safety/ I do have REP under the HARDWARESWAP subreddit. i.e. from selling computer hardware.
KEYS ONLY GAMES are the VR Games
FULL STEAM INVENTORY https://steamcommunity.com/profiles/76561198114574502/inventory/
​
XBOX Microsoft: Sea Of Thieves: Ferryman DLC :rare:
VR Games Only Battlewake MSRP $29.99 Electronauts Music MSRP The Walking Dead Onslaught - Deluxe Edition MSRP $39.99 Creed: Rise to Glory MSRP $29.99 Raw Data MSRP $39.99 Sprint Vector MSRP $29.99
Alan Wake Franchise Aliens: Colonial Marines - Reconnaissance Pack Aliens: Colonial Marines Sawed-off Double Barrel Shotgun Aliens: Colonial Marines SHARP Sticks Alone in the Dark: The New Nightmare Amnesia: The Dark Descent
Awesomenauts Awesomenauts - the 2D moba, Froggy G - Awesomenauts Character, Sheriff Lonestar - Awesomenauts Character, Scoop of Justice - Awesomenauts Character
Awesomenauts - Ravishing Raelynn Skin Barry's Commandant Costume Bastion Bastion + Soundtrack DLC Batman Arkham City: Harley Quinn's Revenge Battlefield: Bad Company™ 2 Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition Binary Domain Bioshock : BioShock™, BioShock™ Remastered
Unknown package 31771 = BioShock® 2, BioShock™ 2 Remastered
Unknown package 15360=BioShock™, BioShock® 2, BioShock 2: Minerva’s Den, BioShock™ Remastered, BioShock™ 2 Remastered, BioShock 2: Minerva's Den Remastered
Chivalry: Medieval Warfare Cogs
COH 2 - The Western Front Armies (Double Pack) - Multiplayer Standalone CoH 2 - The Western Front Armies: Oberkommando West, COH 2 - The Western Front Armies: US Forces
Company of Heroes Company of Heroes, Company of Heroes - Legacy Edition
Crysis Warhead®
The Darkness II Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - Chaos Sorcerer Wargear DLC Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - Farseer Wargear DLC Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - Hive Tyrant Wargear DLC Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - Lord General Wargear DLC Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - The Last Stand Tau Commander Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II - Retribution - Mekboy Wargear DLC Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Retribution - Captain Wargear DLC Dawn of War II: Retribution – The Last Stand
Unknown package 12374 =Dead Island: Bloodbath Unknown package 27190 =Dead Island Riptide
Dead Island: Epidemic Beta Gift Dead Island: Epidemic
Unknown package 27281= Dead Island Riptide - Fashion Victim DLC
Deadlight
Unknown package 14708 =Dear Esther, Dear Esther: Landmark Edition Unknown package 11984 =Deus Ex: Human Revolution - The Missing Link
Faerie Solitaire
Galactic Civilizations I and II Pack Galactic Civilizations® I: Ultimate Edition, Galactic Civilizations® II: Ultimate Edition
Hitman: Absolution™ Galactic Civilizations® II: Ultimate Edition Hitman: Blood Money Worms Crazy Golf I Am Alive Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light Lucius Lucid Lucius II Just Cause 2 Just Cause 2 - Black Market Boom Pack DLC Just Cause 2: Agency Hovercraft Just Cause 2: Bull's Eye Assault Rifle Just Cause 2: Chevalier Classic Just Cause 2: Monster Truck DLC Just Cause 2: Rico's Signature Gun DLC Just Cause 2: Black Market Aerial Pack DLC Lara Croft GoL: All the Trappings - Challenge Pack 1 Lara Croft GoL: Hazardous Reunion - Challenge Pack 3 Lara Croft GoL: Raziel and Kain Character Pack Lara Croft GoL: Things that Go Boom - Challenge Pack 2 Max Payne 3 Max Payne 3: Cemetery Map Max Payne 3: Deadly Force Burst Max Payne 3: Pill Bottle Item Max Payne 3: Classic Max Payne Character Max Payne 3: Silent Killer Loadout Pack Max Payne 3: Special Edition Pack METAL SLUG 3 Metro: Last Light - Ranger Mode Metro: Last Light - RPK Miner Wars 2081 The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind® Game of the Year Edition Nuclear Dawn Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising Organ Trail: Director's Cut RAGE Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad with Rising Storm Remember Me Resident Evil Revelations 2 Resident Evil 5 Resident Evil: Revelations Enhancement Set Resident Evil: Revelations Rachael Ooze DLC Resident Evil: Revelations Lady HUNK DLC Resident Evil: Revelations Resistance Set Resident Evil: Revelations Jessica's G18 + Custom Part: Road Redemption Saints Row IV - College Daze Pack Saints Row IV: Commander-In-Chief Pack Saints Row: The Third Saints Row: The Third Season Pass DLC Pack Saints Row: The Third - Special Ops Vehicle Pack Street Fighter X Tekken: Street Fighter Boost Gem Pack 1 Shadow Warrior Shadow Warrior: Special Edition Upgrade Silent Hill Homecoming Sleeping Dogs: Drunken Fist Pack Sleeping Dogs: Police Protection Pack Sniper Elite V2 Sins of a Solar Empire®: Rebellion Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 Collector's Edition Sonic Adventure 2 Spec Ops: The Line S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl STAR WARS™: The Force Unleashed™ II Super Meat Boy Supreme Commander 2 Supreme Commander 2: Infinite War Battle Pack Zombie Driver HD
Unmechanical Tryst Tropico 5 4-Pack Gift Pre-Order Trine Enchanted Edition Torchlight II Unknown package 18579 Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD - Revert Pack Survivalist The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition Thirty Flights of Loving Tomb Raider: Anniversary The LEGO® Movie - Videogame Thief Tomb Raider: Legend Tomb Raider: Underworld Thief DLC: Booster Bundle THIEF DLC: The Forsaken - Challenge Map
Unknown package 15351= ncludes 15 items: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Anniversary Edition, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Emperor’s Elite Pack, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Traitor Legions Pack, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Golden Relic Bolter, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Golden Relic Chainsword, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Power Sword, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Chaos Unleashed Map Pack, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Dreadnought DLC, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Legion of the Damned Armour Set, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Alpha Legion Champion Armour Set, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Blood Angels Veteran Armour Set, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Salamanders Veteran Armour Set, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Iron Hands Chapter Pack DLC, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine - Death Guard Champion Chapter Pack DLC, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine Soundtrack

Kidneys and the Difficulty of Getting Pregnant plays a crucial role in understanding fertility challenges and the journey to achieve pregnancy. As a specialist in traditional and emotional acupuncture, I’m Atmo Nayano, here to shed light on the significance of the Kidneys in relation to reproductive health, specifically focusing on the difficulties encountered during the process of conception.

Kidneys and the Difficulty of Getting Pregnant

The Kidneys and the Difficulty of Getting Pregnant serve as the foundation of energy and vitality within the body, making them essential for optimal functioning. They are responsible for the reproductive organs and their proper functioning, as well as energy production and regulation. In Chinese Medicine, the Kidneys are considered the root of both yin and yang energy, providing a harmonious balance for overall well-being.
When the Kidneys are balanced, individuals experience a sense of calm and vitality, allowing them to navigate daily tasks with ease and minimal stress. However, disruptions in Kidney energy can manifest as difficulties in conceiving. While the average time for pregnancy is around six months, studies show that up to one in four couples may take up to a year or even 18 months, resorting to methods like In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

Difficulty in Getting Pregnant

It is important to note that difficulty in getting pregnant does not necessarily equate to infertility, and the causes can extend beyond physical factors to include emotional aspects. Imbalances in the Kidneys, associated with the water element, can be categorized into three deficiencies: yin, yang, and Jing (essence).
Yin imbalance within the Kidneys can lead to emotional disturbances such as agitation, anxiety, nervousness, insecurity, night sweats, and dry mouth. Individuals experiencing yin deficiency often find themselves constantly chasing after tasks and life in a hurried manner, lacking the ability to be calm and receptive.
On the other hand, a deficiency in Kidney Yang can result in a lack of direction and initiative in life. Lethargy, slow movements, excess weight, edema, aversion to cold, and frequent urination are common symptoms. In such cases, the Kidney’s ability to provide warmth and vitality is compromised.

Jing

Jing, also known as essence, resides in the Kidneys and determines our vitality, disease resistance, and longevity. It is the life force that we inherit at birth and resides not only in the Kidneys but also in the brain, ovaries, sperm, and spinal cord. Each person’s Jing determines their constitution and is gradually consumed throughout life. Factors such as stress, overwork, insecurities, fears, and exposure to toxic substances can weaken Jing. The quality of Jing can be influenced by diet and lifestyle choices, making it a vital aspect to consider.

Symptoms of Jing deficiency

Symptoms of Jing deficiency include weakness at birth, developmental delays, weak legs, knees, and bones, incontinence, impotence, mental problems, early senility, and low or nonexistent libido. Protecting and nourishing Jing is of utmost importance for overall reproductive health.
To enhance the chances of conception, it is crucial to ensure that there are no physical impediments through comprehensive medical examinations. Additionally, balancing the energy of the Kidneys can greatly improve the possibility of getting pregnant. Acupuncture, a powerful therapeutic modality, is highly effective in harmonizing Kidney energy and promoting fertility.
In the context of IVF, acupuncture has shown promising results in increasing success rates. By addressing the underlying imbalances in Kidney energy, acupuncture supports hormonal balance, improves blood flow to the reproductive organs, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kidneys play a significant role in fertility, and imbalances within this vital organ can contribute to the difficulty of getting pregnant. Understanding and addressing the emotional and physical aspects associated with Kidney energy can greatly improve the chances of conception
.Whether through natural means or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, acupuncture serves as a valuable tool in supporting fertility and the journey towards parenthood.
Read more in my Blog: https://atmonayano.online/pregnancy-miracle-review-is-the-1-best-selling/

Heads up! This story is both unpolished and unfinished, and posted here only for the sake of not letting my work go entirely to waste. If you want to continue the story yourself, feel free to do so.
Credit for The Nature of Predators goes to u/spacepaladin15.
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Memory Transcription Subject: Rania, Gojid Civilian
Date [Standardized Human Time]: Error 560 (estimated date: September, 2136)
At first, we assumed it to be an Arxur weapon, but we had plenty of time to get a more detailed look at the object intersecting our FTL trajectory. A mass of energy, far more than a star could emit, yet giving off no light. Gravitational pull was intense, but completely wrong for a black hole. Maybe the remains of a massive warp core accident? Whatever it was, it was directly in our path.
We had ample time before our collision, and nothing we could do. Our course was set, and escape vessels couldn’t be launched during an FTL jump. All that was left was to wait, and pray for a mercifully quick death that we all knew was unlikely. We built our starships to withstand direct assault from Arxur warships. Our deaths would be both inevitable and slow.
I was away from the refugee’s quarters, on the bridge. I couldn’t bear to watch pups cry in terror, as their parents tried hopelessly to ease their fear. The bridge was only marginally better. Some of the crew were facing their imminent death with stoicism. Many were praying. Many were crying. I don’t remember what I was doing when it hit, but I was probably crying too.
Then… then…
Pain, agonizing and blinding pain. No screaming. No noise at all. Silence, darkness, death.
Movement. But I couldn’t possibly move myself. Was I carried?
​
My first coherent memories started taking shape next to a fire. I couldn’t see, but the warmth and crackling were unmistakable. I tried to move, only to find myself unmoving. Was I in the wreckage of the ship? I felt no pain. Was I already dead?
“Hey, look who’s finally back in the land of the living. Can you hear me?”
A human. The species that started this whole mess. That attacked our cradle, let the Arxur find an easy target. That taunted us with their “Evacuation” cattle roundups. The disgusting mockery of a voice washed over me, tainting my very soul.
That fire must be to roast my flesh. Does it want my fear, before it kills me? It won’t get a single goddamn word, not so much as a noise.
“You… damn, he must still be out of it. Maybe another stimpak..?”
Cli-hsssss. A stabbing pain in my arm, followed by… relief? My arm twitched slightly, but I couldn’t manage anything more. A rushing sound filled my ears, overpowering the growl on my left until it bore me away to unconsciousness.
—
I woke up on a bed, staring at what must’ve been the ceiling, though all I could see was vague rust-brown shapes in the distance. My body still refused to move. And yet still, somehow, so little pain. Was my nervous system destroyed?
No. Hunger. Brutal, snarling hunger stabbed through my stomach like a dagger. I made a weak noise, remembered where I was, and rapidly forced silence. If it knows I’m awake, it’ll torture me until it lets me die…
“Oh! You— you’re awake again! Can you hear me?”
Don’t make a noise. It might lose interest.
“...No. Dammit. It’s going to starve if it doesn’t fully wake up soon… I can’t afford all these meds for much longer anyway. I’ll just have to… leave this here for it. Maybe it’ll wake again while I’m out.”
And just like that, a rush of movement and it was gone. It worked! I lived… I lived, just so I could starve…
​
By the graces of the protector. Food. I could smell food, just inches to my right. Can I move to pick it up? Can I move my jaw to eat?
Is it a trap? The human must be trying to fatten me up. Or maybe it didn’t leave at all, and is just waiting in the shadows to see if I take the bait. Or… maybe…
Fuck it. I was already good as dead, I could at least die full. I tried moving my arm, but to no avail. My other arm was no better. Maybe I could move my head?
The world shifted around me, a nauseating whirl of muted colors. But that meant my head could move. I could move… the food was still just barely out of reach. I can almost taste it… it’s so close to my nose…
I let out a weak cry of frustration. I couldn’t help myself. Did the human intend for this torture? The frustration became rage, filling my body like a white-hot star until I—
Trembling, my claw grasped the food. Rage and hunger animated my arm, pushing it forward. Whatever this was, it was soft. It smelled heavenly. I brought it up to my face. My vision was just recovered enough to make out its form; a strayu-like pillow drizzled with a sweet glaze. I tore into it like an animal, barely even tasting. I must not have eaten in days.
Gone in seconds, and the hunger was barely sated. But it was enough energy to force movement with. Slowly, unsteadily, I rose to a sitting position. The world threatened to shift away from under me, but I held, trying to get my bearings.
I’m in… some sort of shack. Bare, rusted sheet metal on the walls; clearly an improvised structure. Other than that oddity, the room was surprisingly normal. No blood dripping from cages, no hunting trophies on the walls. A torn up carpet, a beaten-up table and chair, some cabinets, all illuminated by soft rays of light pouring in from a window over the table. And right next to my little mattress… is that more food? Some sort of orange vegetable. Like the sweet strayu, I ate without even tasting.
Much better. I was still starving, but only metaphorically. I could even move my other arm, though my legs were entirely numb and refused to cooperate no matter how much I pushed them. Could I escape by dragging my body with my arms?
No. I was still too weak. I had to count on the human fattening me up a bit more before I could make a break for it.
​
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Memory Recovery Subject: Nathan Dunne, sole survivor of Vault 111
Date: December 13th, 2287
Just a hair to the right… and… Now. The interloper, a feral dog that had wandered onto the property, dropped without a sound.
I couldn’t afford to attract any attention, so I’d hastily slapped together a silencer for my pipe revolver. An old oil filter, just small enough to not obstruct the scope I’d hastily tied to the top. The gun looked ridiculous, but it got the job done silently. If I attracted any visitors, my alien guest was as good as dead. Nearly a week after finding it, and it still wasn’t waking up consistently.
Now’s not the time for thought. Focus. Now.
The second dog also dropped. The alpha of the pack still hadn’t noticed anything, a miracle. I lined up one last shot… pulled the trigger, and finally let myself breath. That was way too close. Every day without the fence finished was another day of silent stress.
Putting up a fence was easy enough, but putting up a fence QUIETLY was nightmarishly slow work, constantly punctuated by hiding from any would-be visitors. But these dogs had wandered onto the property without even seeing me. Could they smell the alien? I knew Dogmeat could track injuries from a far greater distance…
Fence should've been up yesterday. Back to work.
I’m running out of barbed wire. And screws. And boards. Can I afford another expedition? What if Dogmeat can’t defend him? Not a chance in hell I’m risking any other group learning about this… although Mama Murphy probably knows anyway, doesn’t she. Maybe the Minutemen can—
No. I can’t risk it. I’ll have to improvise. Maybe I can set up a Tesla arc as defense and leave to raid Sunshine Tidings. Rusted metal sheets don’t make for the best walls, but better than nothing.
The sun was still high, so I had some time if I hurried. As I began gathering supplies, a thought crossed my mind. A Tesla arc was better than nothing, and Dogmeat was formidable enough, but… surely if the alien was in serious danger, it could use some self defense. Those spikes weren’t gonna cut it. Maybe that bastard Kellogg’s old .44 would finally get some use?
I grabbed the .44 revolver, a spare arc trap I’d salvaged from Fort Hagan, and some tools. It would have to do. There was already power hooked up to the shack for heating, so wiring the—
The food’s gone.
Dogmeat didn’t eat carrots, so I knew there was only one culprit. The alien must’ve woken up while I was working. It was back asleep now, but at least it got something down. It wouldn’t starve. Thank god.
…right. If it can wake up, this trap is probably more dangerous to it than any invader. I walked back over to the shed, stowed the Tesla arc and tools, and grabbed a handful of vegetables and a water canteen. If it could stomach food, it needed to start putting on weight now to make up for lost time. This would be a start, at least.
I set the food and water on the table (taking care not to break the digital chimera I’d already laid there), and the gun beside the bed. I knew it could reach to there, without a doubt. Maybe toss in a handful more bullets, too; it’s not like I’d ever be able to make myself use the damn thing. I gave one last glance at the alien curled up on a bare mattress before closing the door and setting out.
—
Memory Transcription Subject: Rania, Gojid Civilian
Date [Standardized Human Time]: Error 560 (estimated date: Unknown)
Help me. Kay-ut. Ki-ra. Protector. Anyone. It’s right there.
When I heard the human coming, I faked sleep hoping it wouldn’t check. As seconds passed, that hope grew thinner and thinner. Clearly, it could see the food was gone. Not that it needed to figure anything out; it could probably see through my deception just looking at me. Ki-yu, trickster; please, let this work. Let me live a moment longer. Noises all around me. Was it laying out torturous weaponry? Was it getting ready to gut me?
Protector. Please. I don’t want to die.
The noise around me stopped. Had the gods heard my prayers? I dared not check; if the human was still there, and I so much as opened an eye, I was dead. But death failed to claim me, and more noises failed to appear, until I finally worked up the courage to take advantage of my blessing and open my eyes.
The human was gone. I was alive. One more look around the room, to make sure it hadn’t—
A gun. A human weapon, close enough to grab. And ammo…
I knew humans were masters at trapping, at deceiving; such was their nature. I stared at the gun, trying to figure out what the trap was.
But I was tired, and hungry, and every sense told me that this wasn’t a trap, but a loaded gun. An answer to my prayers for safety. I couldn’t hold myself back anymore. I picked it up. It felt solid and weighty in my hands, lending some sense of security to the otherwise hopeless situation. Emboldened, I tried to rise to my feet again.
If I grabbed some of the furniture and stood on my good leg, I could just about stay upright without pain. That would have to do for now. Maybe I could use something in this room as a crutch. A leg of the table might do nicely, if I could—
Food. More food, all over the table. A sprawl of alien vegetables, including that orange one I had earlier. A metal jug, probably filled with water. And… is that a translator?
Curiosity overpowered both my hunger and my fear. On closer inspection, it was indeed a translator, one of the older dedicated units. Wired into… some sort of metal armband with a green flickering screen. The craftsmanship was shoddy; some parts were literally held together with insulated tape. Still, it appeared to be powered on and functional.
If I wasn’t in so much danger… I’d love to get a better look at what the human did with this thing. To wire Federation tech directly into one of their devices, and make it work…
My attention drifted back to the bounty laid out on the table before me. It could all be poisoned, but I’d already eaten the human’s food; what harm could it do to be full?
—
Sweeter than the orange one, but not as filling. Kind of mushy. Now no longer starving, I began to savor my meal slightly more. The green fruit was next, the one nearly the size of my skull. Upon breaking open the shell, it turned out to be pinkish red inside, and so juicy that I didn’t even need the water in the jug.
Bitter, but strangely satisfying. Next was a massive purple flower, which I could only guess was supposed to be food as well. The taste was unpleasant, but it felt bizarrely good to eat. Maybe a medicinal herb?
Why would the human give me a medicinal herb?
I’d been circling around the question for some time now. Why the food? Why the gun? Why the lack of gutting? Even if those supposed “empathy tests” weren’t faked, our species were at war! Did it not know?
Well-fed prey made for better-tasting prey, but a gun did not feed. A translator did not feed. Did it really want to talk to me? I weighed my options.
Option 1: Run. Impossible to do in my current state. Even with a large head start, even with uninjured legs, humans were nothing if not persistent; my odds were not all too favorable. And where would I go, anyway?
Option 2: Hide. Impossible to do in any state. Humans were perceptive and cunning. Nothing short of divine protection would hide me. And again, where would I go afterwards?
Option 3: Fight. I had a loaded gun, but for all I knew it was only there to lure me into a false sense of security. And besides, did I really expect to outfight a predator?
Option 4: Talk. It wasn’t likely, but maybe the human would have some sympathy (or at least fake some sympathy to keep up appearances). I was already injured, and it hadn’t torn me apart already; it clearly had something else in mind. Maybe the translator was involved in its “Something else”?
I didn’t… like that last option, but it seemed a hair better than shooting on sight when the human came back. Maybe I was forsaking the protection of the gods, forsaking my fellow Gojid. But none of the options were without risk, and I had to try something bold if I wanted to survive.
A noise from outside roused me from my thoughts. It’s coming. Time to make your choice.
​
​
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Memory Recovery Subject: Nathan Dunne, sole survivor of Vault 111
Date: December 13th, 2287
Halfway through the outbound trip, I realized I’d forgotten my pip-boy at camp. I’d taken both off, while working on wiring in that translator to the spare one from Vault 81. Having no way of assessing potential injuries simply would not do.
Halfway through the return trip, I realized I’d brought Dogmeat with me instead of leaving him to guard. I managed to make myself move a little faster. That .44 was no guarantee of safety, not if the alien simply couldn’t get up.
Once back, I could at least be sure that nothing happened. No blue blood seeping through the shack’s foundation. I grabbed the pip-boy, ordered Dogmeat to patrol, and prepared to leave before the daylight faded.
That’s a bit cold, isn’t it? Leaving without even checking on your guest?
I was leaving so I could build a fence for its protection, but… a quick check couldn’t hurt. Just to make sure nothing happened, right? Yeah. Sure. I had the time. Though maybe barging straight in wasn’t the brightest idea, not when I had just given it a revolver.
I knocked twice, and tried to lower my voice to a more soothing register. I had no idea if my hacked-together translator abomination would work, so tone was key. Before I could even speak, I heard a wild scrambling from the inside.
“Don’t— please don’t k-kill me, human, I’ll… I’ll do anything.”
…I guess I should be glad the translator worked? What the hell was that?
“I’m not gonna hurt you. I promise. Is it OK with you if I come inside?”
“I… Y-Yes.”
I gave Dogmeat a strong look to stay back, and cracked open the door. The terrified sniveling over the translator couldn’t have prepared me for what met my gaze.
A few weeks ago, I’d heard a heart-wrenching noise while poking around the edge of the glowing sea; a lone radstag doe, torn literally in half by a deathclaw. The beast was scared off by an approaching Vertibird, leaving the doe to wail helplessly until I put it out of its misery.
I had nothing else I could compare the alien to. It was shaking like an aspen leaf, eyes screwed shut and body curled up against the wall. The gun was still technically in its hand (claw?), but pointed at nothing. Just looking at the thing made me feel helpless.
But I brought it back from the brink of death. Soothing terror would surely be easier than saving its life.
—
Memory Transcription Subject: Rania, Gojid Civilian
Date [Standardized Human Time]: Error 560 (estimated date: Unknown)
Protector. Please, give me strength. It’s… It’s going to…
No. It just wants to talk. Rania, get a hold of yourself.
I cracked open an eye. Tears largely blinded me from the horrifying details of the predator, but the human still towered over me, casting an engulfing shadow over my weakened form. It was all I could do to not further embarrass myself with incoherent pleading.
It seemed to take notice of my fear, crouching down to roughly eye level.
“You’re OK. I’m not going to hurt you, no matter what. What’s your name?”
“R-Rania.” I forced another eye open. The human had moved itself to a chair. Soft daylight illuminated a pair of forward-facing eyes, but no predatory scowl. It had an expression which could be mistaken for solemn sympathy on another species. But it had no reason not to be sincere. There was no other audience, nor anything I could do to escape. Could it really be concerned?
“Rania. My name is Nate. Can you tell me… what you are?”
“Just Nate? I— I thought humans had two names.”
“Oh, uhh… Nathan Dunne. I just go by Nate.”
I noticed a distinct look of confusion engulf the human’s face. Actually, I started to notice a lot of things. It wasn’t just the building and translator that were so clearly improvised. It— Nate’s armor was clearly not standard-issue anything. Nor the weapon on his side, some sort of pistol made seemingly from scrap.
He didn’t look like a UN soldier, nor a civilian of any type. And… just now… did he ask what I was? How could he not know?
“I’m a… I’m a G—Gojid. Does that mean anything to you?”
He shook his head, which even I knew was a human gesture for no. “Not as such. I might need to work out some issues with the translator, though, so don't count on it meaning—”
“The Federation? The cradle? Venlil? Arxur? UN?”
A bizarre shudder passed through Nate. “I know about the UN, though I can’t imagine how they’re relevant now… and no to the rest.”
“I can’t imagine how they’re relevant”!? What the hell could that mean?
“What— what does the UN mean to you?”
Again, that shudder, like a shadow cast over his soul. “They were a global group, trying to keep international peace. When the first Resource wars sparked… they collapsed like a house of cards. 2052. I was 12. After that, it…” he trailed off, before forcing himself to speak. “It all went to hell. As you can see.”
I couldn’t speak for shock. Predators were deceitful by their nature, yet I knew in my heart his words were sincere. It was plain as day, etched across his face. And if so… What the hell? What the hell!? What was any of that?
“As you can see? What do you mean?”
“Can you walk?”
Should I reveal my weakness? I don’t see any way he couldn’t notice my condition by now, so maybe I can get some sympathy for it?
“I… no, I don’t think so…”
“Then I can carry you outside. If you want, I mean. You’ll see what I meant by ‘went to hell’ real quickly.”
He’d have to… oh Protector, if he chose to carry me to slaughter, there’d be nothing I could do. But by this point, my fear was starting to wear thin from weariness. Curiosity was slowly taking the upper hand.
“S-show me.”
And just like that, the world moved out from under me. Instinctively, I grasped the human’s artificial pelt like a pup clinging to its mother. Light flooded my still tearstained eyes. I blinked them clear, and looked out on the world.
​
​
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Memory Transcription Subject: Rania, Gojid Civilian
Date [Standardized Human Time]: Error 560 (estimated date: Unknown)
Was this Earth? This couldn’t be Earth. Earth was green, wasn’t it?
Yellow foliage, grey trees. A soft blue sky, intermittently broken up by concrete highways that towered towards the clouds. And on the horizon, the mammoth corpse of a city, a metal carcass that dominated the skyline.
No green. No life. Not even wind. The whole scene was eerily still, seemingly frozen in time.
Unable to make sense of the wider world, my attention drifted closer. A ring of ramshackle fencing, a larger building that I might mistake for a house. An ancient hand-worked water pump. A plot of vegetables. A beast with glistening fangs, bounding towards—
“Dogmeat, no. Stay.”
Somehow, impossibly, the beast heeded the command, slowing down enough for me to get a better look at my imminent demise. Long brown fur with black markings, a swishing tail, a red fabric tied around its neck. Forward-facing eyes gleaming with hideous intelligence. It sat down, tilting its head and letting out a shrill whine.
“You still haven’t met Dogmeat yet, have you— Rania? Rania!”
I couldn’t breathe. It was looking straight at me. I thought the human was terrifying, but this thing made it look harmless. Did Nate not realize the danger he was in?
“N— No! Please… don’t let it…”
“It’s not going to hurt you either. You’re OK. Breathe.” Nate turned slightly, shielding the beast from view. “Here. We can go back inside if he scares you too much.” I managed to choke out an affirmation, and felt darkness overtake me as we rushed back into the relative safety of the shack. The door clicked shut, sealing the beast outside.
“Rania, talk to me. Can you breathe?”
“Please… please don’t feed me to it…”
Nate’s eyes went wide, and his hand rose to cover his mouth. I didn’t know much human body language (aside from the vicious snarl they called a smile), but shock was a constant across almost every species. His eyes cast around the room wildly, his breathing becoming erratic before he managed to regain control.
“Rania, I— I’m not going to feed you to him. You— listen, I won’t even let him in. It’s safe here.” He clearly had something else to say, and silently struggled with the words for a moment before finding his phrasing. “Can you tell me why you’re so scared? What happened before I found you?”
The words took several moments to consciously register, but their effect was immediate. If Nate was trying to startle me out of my fear, he couldn’t have done a better job. When I spoke, it was with startling clarity as fear was replaced by near-indignant confusion.
“How could I not be scared? You’re predators. Even if… even if you really don’t want to kill me, seeing injured prey must be a powerful temptation to your instincts, no? Not to mention the invasion of the cradle; even if you do have empathy, why try to save an enemy species?”
A few moments of stillness, and then I mimicked his previous motion of shock as I realized what I’d done. If he somehow didn’t know the situation with the Gojid before, he did now. Even prey empathy didn’t extend to their sworn enemies. My stupid thoughtless rambling meant I was good as dead.
“Rania.” Nate’s words were slow, soft, and measured. “I don’t know where you come from or what the situation is out… up there. But I can promise you this.” He tapped my shoulder, snapping me out of my terrified reverie and forcing me to pay full attention. “I’m never going to hurt you. I’ll keep it safe here, as long as it takes for you to heal. You can hold me to that.”
“Safe… even safe from that monster..?”
Nate looked deeply hurt, but quickly covered it up with his previous expression of concern. “Yes. I wish I could prove to you that my dog is friendly, but… if he scares you that much, I’ll find somewhere else for him.”
He stole a glance out the window, before turning back to me. “Listen. I need to get some supplies for the fence while there’s still light. I’ll take Dogmeat with me. Do you know how to use this?” He gestured towards the gun, still sitting where I’d carelessly let it slip from my claws minutes earlier.
“Y-yes.”
Apparently seeing straight through my lie, he bent down to show me. “Here, you just need to pull back the hammer. Finger over the trigger, and line up these sights on your target. Only pull the trigger when you know you have your shot.”
Nate stood up, putting one hand on the door before remembering something. “If you start hurting, you can use this.” He set a syringe down on the table. “Just stab wherever it hurts. The pack’ll do the rest for you. I’ll be back at sundown.”
And just like that, he was gone.
​
​
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Memory Transcription Subject: Rania, Gojid Civilian
Date [Standardized Human Time]: Error 560 (estimated date: Unknown)
For a while, I just sat there, gun in hand and mind slowly dissolving from all the new information weighing it down. But boredom is a powerful thing, and even injured as I was, restlessness started to take hold.
With the beast gone, and gun in hand, I started convincing myself that it might be a good idea to get another look at the land. I needed to know what I had to work with in case… something happened. And I swore I saw a vegetable garden earlier. Curiosity was getting the better of me.
I tested my legs again. One was sore, but shockingly capable. The other was still burning when I applied pressure, and swaddled in bandages. I didn’t particularly feel like knowing what was under there. One leg would have to do. I didn’t need my legs to shoot, after all.
Cautiously, without making a sound, I cracked the door open. Nobody was out there. I took one shaky step. Then another. Inch by silent sore inch, I made my way over to the “house”.
Like everything out here, it was a rough-hewn heap of rusted metal and thick planks of wood. On closer inspection, however, some care had clearly been put into making it insulated. The windows even had glass (albeit covered in dust), rather than the screen mesh in my shack. This must be where the human lives.
What could Nate be hiding from me?
My curiosity burned brighter than the pain in my leg as I ambled towards the door. Unlocked. I peeked inside.
Thick layers of carpet. A fireplace on the wall, a couple paintings. A mattress much better-maintained than mine, pushed up under one of the windows.
No blood dripping from cages. No hunting trophies on the walls. No indication that this was the lair of a predator. If not for the construction materials, it could be mistaken for a house back on the cradle. It even has refrigeration and lights, without a functional power grid. I guess that predatory cunning comes in handy.
I already knew what the fridge must be filled with. I made the decision not to look. It’d be better if Nate didn’t know I was here, and that’d be pretty hard to hide with vomit all over his carpet. I couldn’t stop myself from looking in one of the cabinets, though. The thing was stuffed with cans of food, nearly full to bursting. Some were clearly homemade, some looked like they’d been excavated from the dirt. Maybe they had been.
My good leg was starting to ache, cutting my exploration short. With no small hesitation, I forced myself back outside, back to the shack where I could rest up a bit.
—
I was only steps away from the door when a horrifying sight stopped me in my tracks. Dead animals, three of them. Sickly looking things, but recognizably the same species as that ‘Dogmeat’. I couldn’t look away. Was Nate hunting before I woke up? I stepped closer, morbid curiosity dowsing my pain. I don’t see any bite marks. And… predators don’t eat other predators.
​
Did he kill them to protect me?
Humans were apex predators on their planet. It couldn’t have been self-defense. Nor could it have been hunger, if he’d just left them to rot. So… what other reasons would he have to fight?
I looked closer, my eyes meeting a series of glassy stares. Two of them looked literally skin and bones, but the third looked a lot like Dogmeat. Mouth closed, eyes staring up at the sky unseeing. I almost felt bad for it.
“I wish I could prove to you that my dog is friendly, but… if he scares you that much, I’ll find somewhere else for him.”
Did Nate feel any conflict, having to shoot them on my behalf? Was he going to shoot Dogmeat too, just to ease my fears? He clearly cared about the beast, but if he thought “keeping me safe” meant…
​
No. I wouldn’t let it come to that. I had to overcome my fear. If I wanted to survive, I needed to be stronger.
Reaching out to the body, arm trembling, I ran a claw down its side. It was soft… still warm, too. The thought that this predator had been alive so recently, only to be put down for my safety, managed to elicit a twinge of sorrow. That feeling, hold on to that. Force it through your fear.
My movements got bolder, even exploring the rows of sharp teeth hidden by a clenched jaw. And the soft fur on its underbelly… its long tail, which sat limp and unmoving on the dust. I could feel my fear begin to fade more and more with every second I sat next to the body of this predator.
Eventually, I forced myself to rise. As I walked back to my bed, I stole one last glance backwards. Instead of horrifying predators, all I saw was a family of three. That they had to die so I could live… the thought filled me with a strange sense of shame.
I couldn’t stand there forever. My poor legs wouldn’t allow it. Back to the bed, step by shaky step.
​
​
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Memory Recovery Subject: Nathan Dunne, sole survivor of Vault 111
Date: December 13th, 2287
Hauling sheet metal was no easy task, even with the help of a dog. It was dark by the time I got home; I’d missed my appointment with the sunset by nearly half an hour.
Supplies stowed away, armor shed, weapons holstered. I rummaged around the fridge for a radstag fry I’d prepared a couple days ago. I didn’t have the energy to cook, and I still needed to check in with Rania. Dogmeat hovered around my ankles, performing his best puppy impression.
These might be the last meals you get to eat with him. I gave a few scraps for his unconvincing performance.
I knew the minutemen would take good care of him, and Valentine could make good use of his nose. But saying goodbye would be a challenge. He’d had my back practically since I escaped Vault 111, and casting him aside felt like nothing short of a betrayal.
The radstag felt like sawdust in my mouth. I tossed the rest of it to Dogmeat, who looked up quizzically rather than digging in. I knew he was wondering why I was being so generous all of a sudden, but I wasn’t ready to break the news to him yet.
—
“Is it OK with you if I come in?”
The voice responding sounded completely different. Still recognizably Rania, but without the terrified quivering I’d expected. “Yes. We need to talk.”
I slipped inside, taking care not to let out too much heat. The figure facing me, while again still undoubtedly Rania, was otherwise unrecognizable. Sitting up straight, unshaking, looking directly at me. A far cry from the poor creature I’d talked to when I left. He (he? I decided to assume it was male, given the voice from the translator) turned his head slightly to the side, leaving one eye to meet both of mine in what I assumed was an intense stare for a person with side-facing eyes.
“Nate.” Rania’s voice was thick with determination. “I’ve decided… I want to get used to Dogmeat. If he’s really as friendly as you say, you shouldn’t have to get rid of him just because of my fear.”
It was all I could do to suppress a full-bodied sigh of relief. If he’s on the fence on this decision, showing my joy would force his hand. I have to stay calm. “Can I ask why?”
“I, uh… I found the other predators. The feral ones. The ones you shot.”
Oh.
“And I… I don’t want you to have to do the same for him. It doesn’t…” The quivering returned in shades, but he continued. “Even if you meant ‘find somewhere else for him’ literally, you shouldn’t have to do that for my sake.”
“I…” I buried my face in my hands, trying to beat back tears. “Thank you. I couldn’t imagine having to… thank you. I can still keep him away from you if you’re scared. You shouldn’t have to live in fear.”
Rania shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “Actually, I was thinking I should… you know, get used to him, not just tolerate him from a distance. Face my fear head-on. Just… not tonight, OK?”
For all that quivering, he’s a lot braver than I thought he’d be.
“Yeah. We can get something worked out later. Right now, you need to rest. I’m not just talking about tonight; you’re still injured. Best you can do right now is rest and eat. Which reminds me… The vegetables I brought you earlier. How were they? Any you really liked?”
“Oh, uhhh… yeah, the orange one was really nice. And that red mushy one wasn’t so pleasant; I could eat it anyway to get full, but I’d rather not. Why do you have so many vegetables, anyway?”
Why wouldn’t I? “What do you mean?”
“Well, I thought… predators eat flesh, right? Were you growing them for decoration? I mean… it was nice to see something green and growing out here, but that seems like a lot of effort!”
I couldn’t manage a verbal response to this. All I could give was a baffled stare, which Rania seemed to interpret as a threat.
“I— I didn’t mean to insult you—”
“No, no, it’s just…” I rubbed my eyes. Hauling sheet metal had sapped all my energy, but I couldn’t just let this slide. “I mean… humans aren’t obligate carnivores. Most predators aren’t; even deathclaws forage for mutfruit when they can. Or does the word ‘predator’ mean something else to you?”
It was Rania’s turn for a blank stare, and I began to wonder if I’d just said something insulting. He looked down, mumbling something the translator couldn’t catch, then turned his attention back. “I think we should talk about this later. I need to rest.”
I knew it was a flimsy excuse (I could practically see his mind overheating as he stared back into the ground), but he wasn’t exactly wrong. I bid my farewell with a solemn nod.
—
The moon cast a picturesque blue light through the windows, giving just enough illumination to fend off sleep. On its own, the meager light couldn’t fight off the exhaustion radiating through my muscles, but Rania’s bizarre outburst was also keeping me up.
Not knowing about the history of our planet was perfectly reasonable, given his alien identity. Being so scared of humans despite apparently knowing about them was strange, but nothing a bit of trauma couldn’t induce. But even schoolchildren knew the basics of the food chain, and I found it hard to believe that a space-faring alien race would be less knowledgeable about ecology than the local population of raiders. Even with no education at all, certain things were obvious by observation.
If nothing else, Rania was right about one thing. We will need to talk about this later.
​
​
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
[Continued in comments]

Long-serving politician who integrated Canadian Armed Forces died 2021 at 98.
Elected in 1949 as youngest MP Born near Waterford, Ont., on Aug. 6, 1923, Hellyer took an interest in aviation at a young age, studying aeronautical engineering, earning a pilot's licence and building training aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War. He also served as an artillery gunner in the Canadian Army late in the conflict. Hellyer was once the youngest member of the House of Commons. He was elected to Parliament in 1949 just shy of his 26th birthday and earned his bachelor's degree in the same year. His interest in defence matters led to serving as parliamentary assistant to the defence minister and then associate minister of national defence in the government of Louis St. Laurent. Hellyer was briefly unseated after the 1957 election, but returned to the House of Commons after a byelection in 1958.
Hellyer rose to prominence as a critic of the Diefenbaker administration and then as minister of national defence in Lester B. Pearson's cabinet. Few defence ministers would be as consequential as Hellyer, who urged Canada to accept nuclear weapons after several years of acrimonious public debate on the matter in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Hellyer was also responsible for the controversial decision to unify and integrate the service branches of the Canadian military into a single organization, the Canadian Armed Forces. Despite the opposition to the idea at the time, the military remains a unified force to this day.
Hellyer's time in cabinet led to a brief friendship with U.S. President John F. Kennedy. His lifelong fascination with aircraft and cutting-edge technology led President Lyndon B. Johnson to invite Hellyer to fly in Air Force 1 for a demonstration of the aircraft's state-of-the-art communications equipment. "He was always interested in technology, it kept him young," said Josh Hellyer.
Leadership challenges In the late 1960s, Paul Hellyer spearheaded a federal task force on housing and urban development, one that ultimately recommended against the then-popular trend of wholesale demolition of older housing stock and its replacement by large housing projects. A dispute with Pierre Trudeau over the implementation of the plan resulted in Hellyer leaving cabinet and eventually sitting as an Independent before accepting an invitation to join Robert Stanfield's Progressive Conservatives. Hellyer also holds the distinction of having challenged both Trudeau and Joe Clark for the leadership of the Liberal and Progressive Conservative parties, in 1968 and 1976, respectively. He returned to the Liberal party in 1982.
Hellyer also created two federal political parties during his life: Action Canada in 1971 and the Canadian Action Party in 1997. Hellyer advocated a unique blend of civic nationalism, anti-globalization and monetary reform policies, attracting supporters from across the Canadian political spectrum. He was also the longest-serving member of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada at the time of his death. In addition to his political career, Hellyer was active in journalism, becoming one of the early investors in the Toronto Sun and writing a column for the newspaper from 1974 to 1984. He was also a panellist on the CBC's "Front Page Challenge" and wrote approximately 20 books.
In his later years, Hellyer became an outspoken and influential voice in the global community of UFO enthusiasts, speaking openly about his belief that UFOs were likely of extraterrestrial origin and that extraterrestrials were visiting the planet. Hellyer called on the governments of the world that he believed had recovered alien technologies from UFO crashes to disclose their findings, as he thought a concerted effort to investigate these technologies could provide solutions to the pressing problems of our era, such as climate change. "Whether it was green energy, economic reform or housing policy, my grandfather was always looking to make Canada better and more self-sufficient," said Josh Hellyer. "Canada was the first love of his life. I don't think I've ever met anyone who loved this country as much as my grandfather did."

Saturday, June 03 - Friday, June 09

New Songs

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6	1 comments	[New] Statik Selektah ft. Posdnuos of De La Soul - Round Trip (For Dave)
6	1 comments	[New] Apollo Brown & Planet Asia – Golden Chakras
5	1 comments	[New] J Scienide x Napoleon Da Legend – Luxurious Apartheid (feat. DJ Jon Doe)
5	0 comments	[New] Ransom - Director's Cut Scene 4 … Pay What You Want… Highly Recommend Listening To Enemy Of The State ft. King Crooked
4	1 comments	[New] Dillon x Diamond D – Comin’ Out Swingin’ (feat. Elzhi)

 

Classic

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8	1 comments	[Classic] K-Solo - Fugitive	[Sp] [AM] [BC] [Dzr] [SC]
7	1 comments	[Classic] Redman - Can't Wait	[AM] [BC] [Dzr] [SC]
7	1 comments	[Classic] Noreaga - Banned from TV (feat. Big Pun, Cam'Ron, Jadakiss, Nature & Styles P	[Sp] [AM] [SC]
5	0 comments	[Classic] Das EFX - Hard Like A Criminal	[SC]
3	0 comments	[Classic] BG Knocc Out ft. Dresta - 50/50 Luv [1995]	[SC]

 

BeatsNRhymes

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6	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Nujabes Feat. Case Starr & Akin - Feather
5	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Street Justice - Overthrow Ft Che Noir (Prod By 38 Spesh)
5	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Juggaknots - cRAzY 8's
5	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] De La Soul - Live at the Dugout '87
4	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Bahamadia featuring Chops, Planet Asia & Rasco - Special Forces

 

Throwback

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7	1 comments	[Throwback] EPMD - You Gots 2 Chill '97
6	1 comments	[Throwback] AZ - Never Change	[Sp] [AM] [SC]
5	1 comments	[Throwback] NINE - Any Emcee	[Sp] [AM] [BC] [Dzr] [SC]
4	0 comments	[Throwback] Smooth da Hustla & Trigga da Gambler - The Hustle Remix

 

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8	3 comments	[Hip Hop Fact] Classic 'Beat Street' Premiered In Theaters 40 Years Ago

 

Top Remaining

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3	1 comments	Your weekly /BeatsNRhymes roundup for the week of May 27 - June 02
3	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Mobb Deep - Tha World (Unreleased)
3	0 comments	Mr Phormula ft Akil The Mc - Global Reactor
3	0 comments	[New] Heem - Tears Of Blood
3	0 comments	[BeatsNRhymes] Dom Pachino & Bronze Nazareth - Haunted Dreamz