Had a few observation over the last couple of days:
Was walking by Far East/China Square and realised the spaghetti joint “Aglio Olio” is still around and thriving at 7pm in the evening. The joint that pioneered letting diners choose the level of spiciness in their pasta was never thought to have survived the cut throat business of f&b and the ever evolving taste buds of Singaporeans. This is also after the death by a thousand cuts of the Covid lockdown which hit the nail on the coffin for most CBD crowd. Needless to say, I was most impressed with this joint.
Fast forward to today, I was in the Far East Plaza area and wanted to have a “healthier” lunch at the Chicken Rice store at level 4 of Far East Plaza, never knew their name outside of “Hainan Chicken Rice.” Lo and behold, at the late lunch hour of 2.30pm, a queue was still present with the lone hanging chicken not offering much hope. I had no choice but to move on to Eggslut, which boast snaking lines and crowd control in their early heydays. What-do-u-know, the queue was nowhere to be found and the queue stands stood forlornly, appearing to have lost their purpose in life.
I breezed into the restaurant and even had the luxury to deliberate my seats if I wanted one by the full length windows or just a cozy corner. How the shine have lost in such a short while.
Besides the obvious Swenson, which are the F&B outlets that have survived the test of time?

I’ve tried them both and they went straight to the top of my favorites list! I love that they smell clean, no complicated fragrance mix, just lavender or like a nice spa. Now if they could just make one with cinnamon/clove, I will never have to get anything else ❤️ (Well okay Sex Bomb of course. Doh)

Hello, I’m stumped at this point after getting the phoenixy poly gel kit for my nails off of Amazon. It has good reviews but I can’t seem to get it to stay on at all. The product is so hard it really doesn’t come out. And when I get it on the nail and go to take the nail tip off of it the poly gel nail just breaks. It hardens on my actually mail but breaks off where my mail ends. Just won’t cure at all no matter how little I apply. It’s super weak and breaks. Can’t find any solution online. Doesn’t anyone know what to do?

Expedition report from Rift Group 4
Report carried out by Lieutenant Marvin Bailey
Report states: Peaceful contact with the local town of Una has ended in failure. Upon nearing the gates, the elves demanded RG-4 to identify themselves and after identification, they opened fire on with bows, crossbows, and scorpions. RG4 retaliated by opening fire with its 50mm chain gun, destroying parts of the wall, killing an unknown number of defenders, and destroying their heavy defenses. The initial shock from the chain gun froze the defenders, allowing RG-4 to vacate the area with minimum damage and no losses taken. This was the first unsuccessful interaction with the local populace since the beginning of the expedition and the Rift Group program and it shows that not all natives will be pleased with REC's arrival.
Other news: The enemy force on the other side of the North Alston river has not shown any signs of movement. Moreover, drone footage shows a number of the local populace leaving the Meilume capital and Una across the river, further suggesting that the Imperial army wishes to fortify and wall off the area between the two Alston rivers with the intention of boxing the REC before attacking. CIA sources can confirm this is the case. As far as the Rosian vassal kingdoms are concerned, RG-1, upon making successful contact with the border town of Afa, has sent a platoon, led by lieutenant James Wilson, to the Alston capital of Olinor where they made contact with the king of Alston, Thavok Zorgen. After a number of debates, king Thavok has agreed to accompany the platoon to the duchies of Zirith, Dothen, and Elarith, as well as the kingdom of Opherin to convince the dukes and kind Ostontul to attend a meeting with ambassador Eugene Anderson. Additional transportation will be provided should it be necessary.
30th day of late yellow season
Elyana, Empire of Light
"So.", said the chained human, "Is it my turn to pick the nail or yours?". The torturer responded by punching him in the face. The prisoner spat out a piece of his tooth before answering, "C'mon, you're supposed to be consistent. It's nail, nail, cut, punch. The teeth come later when all the nails are gone. Everyone knows that.". The torturer punched him again. "There you go again, messing up the consistency. I think I know why you work in this shit hole now."
The torturer wanted to hit him again, but a voice stopped him, "Enough!". A moment later, two elves walked into the room.
"Great General Laeroth.", the torturer said as he bowed.
"How is the questioning, Maul?", Laeroth asked.
"Not well, my lord. This human is proving to be a greater challenge than I had anticipated. All I got was a name. Jack Mitchell."
Laeroth sighed as he approached the chained-up human. His body was cut in several places and half of his fingernails have been removed. In addition, he was missing two teeth and bleeding from his mouth and nose. Yet he still denies Maul. As much as it pained Laeroth to admit it, he was impressed. Any Rosian or even elf would have broken by now. What made this human different?
"Jack Mitchell.", Laeroth said, making Jack lift his head and smile.
"What's up?", Jack asked.
"The ceiling.", Laeroth answered, making Jack laugh. "What is humorous?"
"Maul over there said the same thing.", Jack replied as he wheezed, "You sure you're not related? You got the same shade."
This made Maul mad as he grabbed his hammer, "You insolent savage!"
"Calm yourself.", Laeroth said, "I still need this human alive. High mage Gunru, you have my permission.".
"Yes, general.", said Gunru. He was one of the seven high mages of the empire in North Altia, second only to the grand mage Ishton. Each high mage is able to use more than one type of magical ability. Usually, a mage is only able to use one ability from a single spirit. The mages of Vita can be healers or they can use their power to give life to made objects. This way they can create their own army, however, the mage has to remain alive in order for the creature to remain alive, and if the creature is destroyed the life will return back to its source. The mages of Elendi can use one of the various elements, such as wind, fire, water, and so on. One other ability the high mages possess is 'Mind read'. By focusing their spiritual energy on the mind of the target, they can visualize their knowledge.
"What the hell are you doing?", Jack asked as Gunru grabbed his head with both hands, "I mean I'm flattered but I'm into women, just so you know."
Gunru closed his eyes and white energy started appearing from his hands. That energy went into Jack's head, which remained perfectly still as this occurred. Gunru entered his mind and began to project Jack's memories, thoughts, and knowledge around him. Laeroth just watched. He himself couldn't see unless Gunru gave the knowledge to him. But he did see something that disturbed him. Gunru began to twitch. A twitching that turned to shake as his eyes opened and quickly pulled back while panting and holding his head as though he had a headache.
"Gunru.", Laeroth called, "Tell me, what have you seen?"
Gunru shook and could barely grasp the words to speak, "T-T-Terrible things. A mistake. All of this was a mistake."
"Show me."
"No!", Gunru yelled immediately, "You must not. I could not get all the details myself. You will go insane."
"I must know our enemy. Even if it is a little, I must know. Gunru, you must show me."
Gunru greatly hesitated and opposed this. But at the same time, he knew if anyone was able to take the strain, it was Laeroth, the most loyal servant of the empire. "Very well. I shall show you as much as I can. Forgive me."
As Gunru placed his hands on Laeroth's head, the same energy went into it. Laeroth opened his eyes and found himself on a field of battle. Two sides were fighting, humans. One side had blue clothing and the other was red, both fighting with cannons and boomsticks, but nothing else. The blue-clothed soldiers appeared to be winning and they charged the red ones, all while carrying a flag. Red and white stripes with stars. It was brutal. What could it mean?
Night turned to day over and over again, until another battle occurred. Same thing, broomsticks, and cannons, but they fought each other. Once again, there was a flag with stars and stripes but now there were two. A civil war? Hundreds of thousands of men died all for what?
Fast forward, Laeroth appeared in another field, but considerably more terrifying. It was a field of black mud, ash, and blood as far as the eye could see. Thousands upon thousands of bodies piled up around giant cannons that fired and destroyed castles. He could see waves of soldiers running forward at their dug-in enemies. They fell by the dozen until a few lucky ones reached the line and engaged in a brutal brawl. The fighting kept escalating until a massive white cloud filled the battlefield and everyone caught in started choking and dying.
Once the smoke cleared, Laeroth could see hundreds of thousands, no, millions of soldiers and armored beasts marching across a field. They fought another gigantic army, one Laeroth thought could never exist. Millions of troops met on the battlefield and slaughtered one another as the metal monsters spat fire and thousands of iron wyverns fought in the air. Massive ships of steel fired enormous cannons of steel at one another as hundreds of iron rods fell from the sky and flattened the cities below.
Closing and opening his eyes one more time he saw a city. A large city with towers of stone and glass that pierced the clouds. But then he saw it get destroyed as it was engulfed in a literal sea of flames. All of those people were dead in an instant, and in place of the city was a gigantic cloud in the shape of a mushroom.
The day turned to night again as Laeroth was lifted into the air and observed the world change. The nations fought one another while also existing in peace. Cities became massive and their armies even more powerful. But then, the fires came. The great cities turned to a smoldering pile of ash as they turned on one another in the name of 'salvation'. War, disease, poverty, entire civilizations were whipped out and empires started to fall. But in this chaos, something was born. The petty rivalry of the great powers vanished and united they led their armies and pulled the corruption by its roots. It took them decades but they did it. And now united, they rebuilt their homes. The world was not at peace but they made the most of it. At least until they showed up. The rift opened, the invasion failed and now an angered giant prepares to take its vengeance and punish them for their crimes.
Gunru stopped sending energy into Laeroth's mind and let go of his head. Laeroth bent over and panted. His heart was racing and his nose bleeding. He could not believe what he saw. Was there really no hope? Was this war lost before it even began? How was he to win? He wasn't, but he knew he couldn't just give up. His pride as a warrior and a soldier wouldn't let him. But more than that, it was Canus. His maniacal nature coupled with fear will only make things worse if he were to find out. Furthermore, the Inquisition will most likely pull strings and keep the war going for their sick and twisted games. Laeroth knew he had to come up with something, otherwise, the empire will crumble.
"General, are you alright.", Maul asked.
"I am fine Maul.", Laeroth answered, "Take the human back to the cell and treat his wounds. I will let you know what I want with him next later."
"Yes, my lord.", Maul said as he gestured to the guards to help him.
"Gunru."
"Yes, general?", Gunru answered.
"You must not speak of this to anyone. Not even the emperor. This stays between us. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, general."
"Good. Now excuse me, I must clean myself and prepare for the future.". Laeroth left the torture chamber and climbed up the steps to the halls. On his way to his personal chamber, he could feel a strange sensation run down his spine. The effects of the mind read? No, this was something else. He made a random turn and walked down a narrow hallway. After taking a few steps, he prepared a knife and waited. Soon, a cloaked individual suddenly appeared from behind the corner and started running away. Laeroth immediately gave chase, signaling the guards in front to stop him. Two guards formed up with shields, which made him stop for a moment. After a moment Laeroth threw his knife at his back. He yelled in pain as he fell over and the guards moved in.
"Leave him!", Laeroth shouted as he grabbed the man and pulled the cloak down. It turned out to be a woman. "Who sent you!? Talk!". His words fell on deaf ears as the woman's head twitched and a thick purple foam-like substance oozed from her mouth. Laeroth groaned and let her go, "Burn the body. Speak nothing of this.". The guards nodded and carried the body outside.
'Gilshor.', Laeroth thought, 'I will not let you turn this war into your own personal puppet show. The darkness will not rule the light.'
---
(Meanwhile)
Upper level of the Imperial palace
Lilyth Camilla Agorix was always a strange girl. While the other girls took care of their hair, she took care of the armor forged specifically for her. While the other girls practiced knitting and read poetry, she expressed an interest in politics and philosophy. This behavior wasn't particularly accepted by her father. Her mother, on the other hand, empress Alruna Flavia Agorix, greatly supported her. It was thanks to her effort that women were allowed to join the army, and at the moment, a tenth of the army is female. Alruna wasn't named the Lioness for anything, and Lilyth tries to live up to her expectations.
But some members of the family aren't as hard-working as her. Her brother Armas is the biggest and most disgusting slob. She could hear him and his hooligans laugh in his chamber. Trying her best to ignore them, she walked past, but as Armas exited the room he called her over, "Hey sister! Come on in. We have room."
Lilyth groaned, "I have more important matters to attend to than entertain a room full of children."
Armas laughed, "Oh come on, loosen up. The slaves taught me that."
"Armas, if mother finds out-"
"What? What will she do? These slaves were given to me and I can do whatever I want with them."
"Is that so?", spoke a mature womanly voice, "Tell me, Armas, what exactly have you been doing?"
"M-Mother?", Armas uttered. Next to her was the second youngest daughter, Khelsa, along with the captive human girl, Amy. The two became friends after Amy arrived and while Alruna didn't support it at first, she learned that a child is a child, and her being from a supposedly savage land is irrelevant. "Nothing. Just questioning these captives with my soldiers."
"You mean raping women with your hooligans.", Alruna said as she walked into his room. The stench and sight made her sick. "Guards! Take these women to my chambers and bring along some maids. Clean them, feed them, and dress them properly." Guards did just that, pushing away the thugs who grunted in response.
"Khelsa?", Amy asked, "Is that your brother?"
Khelsa sighed in response, "Yes. I'm sorry you had to see this."
As the guards took the women out, Armas protested, "Mother, this is unfair. These women are my slaves. Furthermore, they are savages from a barbaric land. They should consider themselves lucky to even be in my presence. Father says-"
Alruna slapped him, stopping his sentence, "Your father may be the emperor, but I know him better than anyone else. He is narrow-minded and frightened, only seeing what is right in front of him, and never bothering to properly assess anything. We may be the chosen bringers of light, but if we act as barbaric as our adversaries then we are no better than them. Now, get this room cleaned and then yourself. You are royalty, act like it." With that Alruna and Lilyth left, leaving Armas to bicker and throw tantrums.
"Thank you, mother.", Lilyth said, "I must go now."
"Go, my daughter.", said Alruna. Lilyth bowed and entered her chamber.
"Fenris.", she spoke, "Is everything ready?"
"Yes, princess.", Fenris said, "The savage stands before you in chains and the scribe has prepared the parchment."
"Excellent. Scribe, you are to document any and all findings. Listen carefully. Do you understand?"
"Yes, princess.", answered the scribe.
"Let us begin.", Lilyth said as she walked to the captive, "What is your name?"
"You know that.", he answered and received a back-handed slap. After moving his head back, he answered, "Brian O'Neil."
"Where are you from?"
"My mom.", to which he received a punch in the stomach. It didn't hurt a lot, considering he was a large man. "The United States of America."
"Tell me more about it."
"It's a unity of fifty-two states with three hundred and fifty million people."
This shocked Lilyth but she didn't show it, "Are there more countries?"
"Many more. My country isn't even the biggest one."
"So there are more empires in your world."
"No, there aren't any."
Lilyth paused for a moment, "Then what?"
"We are a republic. We elect our leader and that leader represents us. He doesn't have all the power and all of his decisions are put to a vote. Empires and kings are a thing of the past."
"You expect me to believe that? A nation cannot function without a centralized figure controlling it."
Brad chuckled, "We use to think that, too. But we found out that the opposite is true. One person can control a city, or maybe a small nation. But the bigger a nation gets and the more powerful it gets, the more strain appears on a single person. This is why our nations are governed by dozens of people and we have careful systems for governance. A single person is not enough. He would only bring ruin."
This shocked Lilyth more. A system like this was always theorized by politicians and philosophers, but nothing was ever tested because the emperors abolished it, saying that it goes against the path of light. "You say that. But our empire has grown powerful and spread across the world. We have become its rulers and spreaders of wisdom, knowledge, and civilization."
"There used to be an empire in my world that thought just like you. They wanted to conquer the entire world and make it so that only their ways exist. Do you want to know what happened?"
"What?"
"They became too big. There was too much ground. Their forces were spread thin and could be picked off by united barbarians who didn't like their ways. War stopped and since their economy depended on it, it crumbled. Their politicians became corrupt and power-hungry. They stole from and even killed each other. Eventually, they fell beneath the force of the united kingdoms they called savages and were wiped out. This is why no one can truly conquer the world. No matter how hard you fight, the world always wins."
Lilyth clenched her fists and stared at Brad with an angered look, "You say that we will end up the same?"
"If you refuse to change, then yes.".
After staring at him for a few moments, she spoke, "Fenris! Take him back to his cell. We will continue this tomorrow."
"At once, princess.", Fenris said and grabbed Brad by the arm.
As they were walking out the door, Brad turned his head to Fenris, "You know she likes you, right?".
Fenris looked at him for a bit before pushing him forward. Lilyth was left to ponder Brad's words. There is still much for her to learn.
---
(That night)
Somewhere between Meilume capital and Una
Being a prisoner is never good. Your rights are taken away and the ones who captured you can do anything they want to you. They could kill you, sell you or worse. This was the predicament the Belus family found itself in. Out of the two hundred soldiers that accompanied them, only one soldier remained, the others were killed and fed to the welfen and leanoids. The Belus family was in a cage with the last soldier, Klaus, and a servant, Lia. The five of them were all sitting with their hands tied behind their backs, wondering what will happen next. Taria was still grieving over the death of Aego, not even lifting her head.
"Bellon.", Nimriel whispered, "What will happen to us?"
"Do not worry.", Bellon said, "We will alright."
"Stop lying, father.", Taria said, still with head lowered, "These people will first rape us, torture us and then demand ransom from the empire."
"Hush, my lady.", Lia said, "Don't say such things."
"What? The truth?"
"You should listen to the little girl.", said a rogue elf as he crouched in front of the cage. Behind him was the fire in the center of the camp with four more rogues, two leanoids, and one welfen. Most of the bandits were asleep, only over a dozen stayed awake. "The money we'll get from you will make us set for life. Sure, we might have lost more than half our men, but that just means more for the living."
Taria spat, "Open this cage and I'll show you a little girl."
The rogue chuckled, "Quite a fighter. I saw you kill that leanoid. You're good. Why don't you come with us?"
"Why would I join a bunch of good-for-nothing traitors? You know nothing of honor, duty or the light."
The rogue laughed, "They still teach that shit? The light is nothing but a made-up excuse the first emperor made so we can take these lands. People like us? We see the truth. And all of you are being manipulated."
"You dare mock the path of light?", asked Bellon.
"Shouldn't a bad joke be mocked?"
Taria and Bellon gritted their teeth. This is why rogues are killed on sight. They know nothing but greed. As Taria stared at the rogue, something appeared in the corner of her vision. A man in green armor held a black boomstick and aimed it at the bandits by the fire. She looked around and saw six more. Are they insane? If they fire it, it will alert everyone. But when they fired them, only a slight sound was heard. Enough for the rogue in front of her to turn around. He saw his mates dead, but couldn't call for help as his neck was ripped out by a welfen. The Belus family was in shock as the welfen opened the cage.
"Don't be afraid.", he spoke, "I'm with the Americans."
This confused the family. "Who?", Taria asked.
Soon after, a soldier in green got to them, "My name is Lieutenant Caden Roberts of RG-3. We're here to rescue you.". He cut their ropes and waved his hand to signal the rest of his men. As they moved, Taria saw the dead bodies of the bandits and when they got out of the camp she could see that only fifteen soldiers, including two tribals, came to rescue them.
"Who are you people?", Taria asked.
"We're the Rift Expeditionary Force from the United States of America.", said the lieutenant as he pressed a small metallic box which caused the entire bandit camp to get engulfed in flames. The bandits burned and screamed, some ran out of the camp but got shot by the green soldiers. Their camouflaged armor, repeating broomsticks, and fire magic puzzled Taria greatly. She couldn't even see their faces from their masks and eyewear. Who are they? Her questions had to wait a little longer, as iron carriages moved from behind them and opened.
"Lieutenant, is it go time?", spoke the man from one of the carriages.
"Yeah.", said the lieutenant, "Let's go, I'll get them to the MRAP. Come on.". He led the five of them to the middle carriages through its back door. It looked like it was completely made of metal and that it could take a cannon shot. This just further confused them. As the carriages started moving, they noticed that it was going at high speeds, even faster than horses.
"Who are you?", Bellon asked, "What do you want from us?"
The soldiers in front of them looked at each other before taking their masks and helmets off, revealing their pale faces. It wasn't anything sinister and they didn't look like they intended to harm them.
"I am sergeant Jeff Parker.", spoke one of them.
"I am staff sergeant Liam Cook.", spoke the other one, "Over here is Lioba, our feelian, and Olaf, our friendly welfen."
"It's welfen that attacked us.", Klaus spoke.
"Do not speak as if they are of my kind.", said Olaf in an angered tone, "Those beasts lost their meaning in life."
"What do you mean?", Jeff asked.
"Each wolf lives for the pack. For the tribe. He fights for it, provides for it, and dies for it. These wolves, they've abandoned their blood and chosen the life of a wild animal. They're no better than the ferals."
"I see. We have those too. We call them deserters. They flee the army and abandon their brothers. And so we hunt them down and punish them."
"As you should."
After some silence, Klaus spoke, "Forgive me. I meant no disrespect.". Olaf nodded.
"Are you taking us home?", Nimriel asked.
"No.", Liam said, "We're taking you to Galdush. Our lieutenant-general wishes to speak with you. Well, lord Bellon more specifically." The five went silent. This was the enemy from the rift, and now they're taking them to their leader.
"Are we to become your slaves then?", Taria asked.
Jeff and Liam chuckled a bit. "No no, of course not. That kind of thing is in the past for us. Our lieutenant-general only wants to speak with you. After a nice conversation, we will personally bring you back to the Meilume capital."
"How do you know its name?", Bellon asked.
"We have our ways. Now sit back and enjoy the ride.", Liam said as he pulled some blocks out of his pocket. When he opened it, it was gray and seemed to be food. After offering it to Lia, he spoke, "Hungry?". After some hesitation, Lia took it and tasted it. It was quite delicious. As she ate the whole thing, Liam chuckled as he opened a bag, "Don't strain yourself, I have enough for everyone."
---
(Several hours later)
Fort Galdush
"My lady.", said Lia as she shook Taria, "My lady, wake up, we've arrived."
Taria woke up, "What? How long have I been asleep?"
"A few hours, my lady."
This was surprising, to say the least, "We're already here?". She looked out the window and saw their fort as well as their machines. The M2 battle tanks rolled over the hills and fired at the targets, blasting through them. She saw soldiers shooting their guns and groups running in a circle. At the gate, the lieutenant introduced himself and the convoy continued. Inside, they could see soldiers clad in thick, metal armor carrying large boxes and as they got out of the MRAP they saw the Invictus ACs flying in the air. All of this overwhelmed them. To them, these were otherworldly monsters. To the rangers, it was a normal everyday occurrence.
Lieutenant Roberts stood in front of his men, "Alright. I will take lord Bellon Belus to lieutenant-general Coleman. Parker, Cook, you take the rest to their temporary residents."
"Yes sir.", both of them said as they saluted, "Okay, let's go. I promise it's nothing bad."
Taria, Lia, Nimriel, and Klaus went with Jeff and Liam to their residence while Caden took Bellon to the lieutenant-general. The two of them went into the central command building.
"Lieutenant Caden Roberts of Rift Group 3 here to see colonel Andrew Marshal and lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman.", he said to a woman who worked as a secretary.
After some delay, the woman nodded, "Go down the hall to meeting room two."
"Thank you. Come on.". Bellon followed Caden through the hall. He admired how it was crystal clear and pearl white like they were made of pure marble. As they walked they reached the meeting room and entered. Inside were two men who stood up immediately.
"Good morning.", said the first man, "I am lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman of the Rift Expeditionary Corp. And this is our logistics officer, colonel Andrew Marshal."
"Nice to meet you.", Andrew said, "You are the lord of Meilume, Bellon Belus, correct?"
Bellon stuttered, "Y-Yes I am. Great general, you have my eternal gratitude for saving my life, and my family.", he said as he bowed.
"Please.", Patrick spoke, "No need to bow. And please call me Patrick. Sit down."
"Thank you, Patrick.", Bellon said as he sat down, Caden next to him.
"While I accept your gratitude, I'm going to need to ask something else of you?"
'Of course. What was I expecting?', Bellon thought, "And what would that be? If it is gold I assure you the emperor will pay a decent sum for my family and me."
"Oh no, god no. I'm not asking for money. I need something from you that only someone of your status within the empire can provide."
'Someone of my status'. "What exactly?"
"As you know, your empire opened a rift in our country and attacked without warning and unprovoked. We beat the invasion force and the force than came after it. You lost two armies in less than a month, or, a moon cycle as you call them."
"Yes, I am aware of this. What does that have to do with me? I didn't send those armies."
"We know. But you have a connection with the person who did. And we want you to send a message to him for us."
'A message?' "And what kind of message?"
"We would like an audience with a representative to negotiate peace."
This stunned Bellon. 'Peace?'
---
(Meanwhile)
Jeff and Liam brought the four to an empty army barracks, reserved for these situations. "Okay.", Liam spoke, "You'll be staying here until the lieutenant-general orders otherwise. Don't worry, you'll be comfortable." They entered the barracks and it was clean, with several beds, a fridge, desks, and lights, which Jeff turned on, surprising the 'guests'.
"Make yourselves at home.", Jeff said, "I'll bring you some breakfast soon.". He left and closed the door, leaving the four to talk.
"What do you think will happen, Klaus?", Nimriel asked.
"I don't know, my lady.", he answered, "But we shouldn't do anything to anger them. I think we should wait and see what is to come."
Taria looked out the window and saw the tanks and LAVs driving past as well as soldiers marching in unison. "Incredible. All this power. They could have destroyed Meilume before we even had the chance to escape. And yet here we are. In their fortress, waiting for them to bring us food. They want something."
"Well.", Lia said, "That man who offered me the sweet food was nice. I think they're not that bad."
"They are the enemy, Lia. Enemies should never be trusted. It might seem like they are good, but they are using us. They want us here so we can witness their power and use us to spread fear through the rest of the empire. Clever."
"I think you are thinking too much about it, my lady. Perhaps you need to sit down, and rest."
Taria sighed. She walked to a nearby desk and observed the notebooks, pens, and pencils. She sat down and opened a notebook, immediately noticing how the paper is milk-white with lines to help her writing. Picking up one of the pens, she observed how smooth it was and made of spotless, thin metal, but also how it didn't have a tip. Then she noticed the round top and remembered how the lieutenant pressed his metal box. Pressing down the top, the pen clicked and the tip appeared. Amazed, she clicked it several more times before starting to write.
"Taria?", Nimriel asked, "What are you doing?"
"I'm writing down what I saw."
At that moment, Jeff opened the door and brought several white cardboard boxes, "I brought breakfast. I hope it's to your liking."
Each of them took one and Jeff put the last one on Taria's desk. She looked at him and asked, "Can you show me more of your fortress?"
Jeff hesitated a bit, "Why?"
"I'm curious. I wish to learn."
"So you can write it down and give the information to the army?". Taria sat silently. This wasn't untrue. "Look, we're not your enemy. Our commanding officer is talking to your father about peace. Truth is, we don't want war.". Taria paused to think about that. "But if I get permission, I'll show you around."
"I would appreciate it. Thank you."
​
End of chapter 10
​
---
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Expedition report from Rift Group 4
Report carried out by Lieutenant Marvin Bailey
Report states: Peaceful contact with the local town of Una has ended in failure. Upon nearing the gates, the elves demanded RG-4 to identify themselves and after identification, they opened fire on with bows, crossbows, and scorpions. RG4 retaliated by opening fire with its 50mm chain gun, destroying parts of the wall, killing an unknown number of defenders, and destroying their heavy defenses. The initial shock from the chain gun froze the defenders, allowing RG-4 to vacate the area with minimum damage and no losses taken. This was the first unsuccessful interaction with the local populace since the beginning of the expedition and the Rift Group program and it shows that not all natives will be pleased with REC's arrival.
Other news: The enemy force on the other side of the North Alston river has not shown any signs of movement. Moreover, drone footage shows a number of the local populace leaving the Meilume capital and Una across the river, further suggesting that the Imperial army wishes to fortify and wall off the area between the two Alston rivers with the intention of boxing the REC before attacking. CIA sources can confirm this is the case. As far as the Rosian vassal kingdoms are concerned, RG-1, upon making successful contact with the border town of Afa, has sent a platoon, led by lieutenant James Wilson, to the Alston capital of Olinor where they made contact with the king of Alston, Thavok Zorgen. After a number of debates, king Thavok has agreed to accompany the platoon to the duchies of Zirith, Dothen, and Elarith, as well as the kingdom of Opherin to convince the dukes and kind Ostontul to attend a meeting with ambassador Eugene Anderson. Additional transportation will be provided should it be necessary.
30th day of late yellow season
Elyana, Empire of Light
"So.", said the chained human, "Is it my turn to pick the nail or yours?". The torturer responded by punching him in the face. The prisoner spat out a piece of his tooth before answering, "C'mon, you're supposed to be consistent. It's nail, nail, cut, punch. The teeth come later when all the nails are gone. Everyone knows that.". The torturer punched him again. "There you go again, messing up the consistency. I think I know why you work in this shit hole now."
The torturer wanted to hit him again, but a voice stopped him, "Enough!". A moment later, two elves walked into the room.
"Great General Laeroth.", the torturer said as he bowed.
"How is the questioning, Maul?", Laeroth asked.
"Not well, my lord. This human is proving to be a greater challenge than I had anticipated. All I got was a name. Jack Mitchell."
Laeroth sighed as he approached the chained-up human. His body was cut in several places and half of his fingernails have been removed. In addition, he was missing two teeth and bleeding from his mouth and nose. Yet he still denies Maul. As much as it pained Laeroth to admit it, he was impressed. Any Rosian or even elf would have broken by now. What made this human different?
"Jack Mitchell.", Laeroth said, making Jack lift his head and smile.
"What's up?", Jack asked.
"The ceiling.", Laeroth answered, making Jack laugh. "What is humorous?"
"Maul over there said the same thing.", Jack replied as he wheezed, "You sure you're not related? You got the same shade."
This made Maul mad as he grabbed his hammer, "You insolent savage!"
"Calm yourself.", Laeroth said, "I still need this human alive. High mage Gunru, you have my permission.".
"Yes, general.", said Gunru. He was one of the seven high mages of the empire in North Altia, second only to the grand mage Ishton. Each high mage is able to use more than one type of magical ability. Usually, a mage is only able to use one ability from a single spirit. The mages of Vita can be healers or they can use their power to give life to made objects. This way they can create their own army, however, the mage has to remain alive in order for the creature to remain alive, and if the creature is destroyed the life will return back to its source. The mages of Elendi can use one of the various elements, such as wind, fire, water, and so on. One other ability the high mages possess is 'Mind read'. By focusing their spiritual energy on the mind of the target, they can visualize their knowledge.
"What the hell are you doing?", Jack asked as Gunru grabbed his head with both hands, "I mean I'm flattered but I'm into women, just so you know."
Gunru closed his eyes and white energy started appearing from his hands. That energy went into Jack's head, which remained perfectly still as this occurred. Gunru entered his mind and began to project Jack's memories, thoughts, and knowledge around him. Laeroth just watched. He himself couldn't see unless Gunru gave the knowledge to him. But he did see something that disturbed him. Gunru began to twitch. A twitching that turned to shake as his eyes opened and quickly pulled back while panting and holding his head as though he had a headache.
"Gunru.", Laeroth called, "Tell me, what have you seen?"
Gunru shook and could barely grasp the words to speak, "T-T-Terrible things. A mistake. All of this was a mistake."
"Show me."
"No!", Gunru yelled immediately, "You must not. I could not get all the details myself. You will go insane."
"I must know our enemy. Even if it is a little, I must know. Gunru, you must show me."
Gunru greatly hesitated and opposed this. But at the same time, he knew if anyone was able to take the strain, it was Laeroth, the most loyal servant of the empire. "Very well. I shall show you as much as I can. Forgive me."
As Gunru placed his hands on Laeroth's head, the same energy went into it. Laeroth opened his eyes and found himself on a field of battle. Two sides were fighting, humans. One side had blue clothing and the other was red, both fighting with cannons and boomsticks, but nothing else. The blue-clothed soldiers appeared to be winning and they charged the red ones, all while carrying a flag. Red and white stripes with stars. It was brutal. What could it mean?
Night turned to day over and over again, until another battle occurred. Same thing, broomsticks, and cannons, but they fought each other. Once again, there was a flag with stars and stripes but now there were two. A civil war? Hundreds of thousands of men died all for what?
Fast forward, Laeroth appeared in another field, but considerably more terrifying. It was a field of black mud, ash, and blood as far as the eye could see. Thousands upon thousands of bodies piled up around giant cannons that fired and destroyed castles. He could see waves of soldiers running forward at their dug-in enemies. They fell by the dozen until a few lucky ones reached the line and engaged in a brutal brawl. The fighting kept escalating until a massive white cloud filled the battlefield and everyone caught in started choking and dying.
Once the smoke cleared, Laeroth could see hundreds of thousands, no, millions of soldiers and armored beasts marching across a field. They fought another gigantic army, one Laeroth thought could never exist. Millions of troops met on the battlefield and slaughtered one another as the metal monsters spat fire and thousands of iron wyverns fought in the air. Massive ships of steel fired enormous cannons of steel at one another as hundreds of iron rods fell from the sky and flattened the cities below.
Closing and opening his eyes one more time he saw a city. A large city with towers of stone and glass that pierced the clouds. But then he saw it get destroyed as it was engulfed in a literal sea of flames. All of those people were dead in an instant, and in place of the city was a gigantic cloud in the shape of a mushroom.
The day turned to night again as Laeroth was lifted into the air and observed the world change. The nations fought one another while also existing in peace. Cities became massive and their armies even more powerful. But then, the fires came. The great cities turned to a smoldering pile of ash as they turned on one another in the name of 'salvation'. War, disease, poverty, entire civilizations were whipped out and empires started to fall. But in this chaos, something was born. The petty rivalry of the great powers vanished and united they led their armies and pulled the corruption by its roots. It took them decades but they did it. And now united, they rebuilt their homes. The world was not at peace but they made the most of it. At least until they showed up. The rift opened, the invasion failed and now an angered giant prepares to take its vengeance and punish them for their crimes.
Gunru stopped sending energy into Laeroth's mind and let go of his head. Laeroth bent over and panted. His heart was racing and his nose bleeding. He could not believe what he saw. Was there really no hope? Was this war lost before it even began? How was he to win? He wasn't, but he knew he couldn't just give up. His pride as a warrior and a soldier wouldn't let him. But more than that, it was Canus. His maniacal nature coupled with fear will only make things worse if he were to find out. Furthermore, the Inquisition will most likely pull strings and keep the war going for their sick and twisted games. Laeroth knew he had to come up with something, otherwise, the empire will crumble.
"General, are you alright.", Maul asked.
"I am fine Maul.", Laeroth answered, "Take the human back to the cell and treat his wounds. I will let you know what I want with him next later."
"Yes, my lord.", Maul said as he gestured to the guards to help him.
"Gunru."
"Yes, general?", Gunru answered.
"You must not speak of this to anyone. Not even the emperor. This stays between us. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, general."
"Good. Now excuse me, I must clean myself and prepare for the future.". Laeroth left the torture chamber and climbed up the steps to the halls. On his way to his personal chamber, he could feel a strange sensation run down his spine. The effects of the mind read? No, this was something else. He made a random turn and walked down a narrow hallway. After taking a few steps, he prepared a knife and waited. Soon, a cloaked individual suddenly appeared from behind the corner and started running away. Laeroth immediately gave chase, signaling the guards in front to stop him. Two guards formed up with shields, which made him stop for a moment. After a moment Laeroth threw his knife at his back. He yelled in pain as he fell over and the guards moved in.
"Leave him!", Laeroth shouted as he grabbed the man and pulled the cloak down. It turned out to be a woman. "Who sent you!? Talk!". His words fell on deaf ears as the woman's head twitched and a thick purple foam-like substance oozed from her mouth. Laeroth groaned and let her go, "Burn the body. Speak nothing of this.". The guards nodded and carried the body outside.
'Gilshor.', Laeroth thought, 'I will not let you turn this war into your own personal puppet show. The darkness will not rule the light.'
---
(Meanwhile)
Upper level of the Imperial palace
Lilyth Camilla Agorix was always a strange girl. While the other girls took care of their hair, she took care of the armor forged specifically for her. While the other girls practiced knitting and read poetry, she expressed an interest in politics and philosophy. This behavior wasn't particularly accepted by her father. Her mother, on the other hand, empress Alruna Flavia Agorix, greatly supported her. It was thanks to her effort that women were allowed to join the army, and at the moment, a tenth of the army is female. Alruna wasn't named the Lioness for anything, and Lilyth tries to live up to her expectations.
But some members of the family aren't as hard-working as her. Her brother Armas is the biggest and most disgusting slob. She could hear him and his hooligans laugh in his chamber. Trying her best to ignore them, she walked past, but as Armas exited the room he called her over, "Hey sister! Come on in. We have room."
Lilyth groaned, "I have more important matters to attend to than entertain a room full of children."
Armas laughed, "Oh come on, loosen up. The slaves taught me that."
"Armas, if mother finds out-"
"What? What will she do? These slaves were given to me and I can do whatever I want with them."
"Is that so?", spoke a mature womanly voice, "Tell me, Armas, what exactly have you been doing?"
"M-Mother?", Armas uttered. Next to her was the second youngest daughter, Khelsa, along with the captive human girl, Amy. The two became friends after Amy arrived and while Alruna didn't support it at first, she learned that a child is a child, and her being from a supposedly savage land is irrelevant. "Nothing. Just questioning these captives with my soldiers."
"You mean raping women with your hooligans.", Alruna said as she walked into his room. The stench and sight made her sick. "Guards! Take these women to my chambers and bring along some maids. Clean them, feed them, and dress them properly." Guards did just that, pushing away the thugs who grunted in response.
"Khelsa?", Amy asked, "Is that your brother?"
Khelsa sighed in response, "Yes. I'm sorry you had to see this."
As the guards took the women out, Armas protested, "Mother, this is unfair. These women are my slaves. Furthermore, they are savages from a barbaric land. They should consider themselves lucky to even be in my presence. Father says-"
Alruna slapped him, stopping his sentence, "Your father may be the emperor, but I know him better than anyone else. He is narrow-minded and frightened, only seeing what is right in front of him, and never bothering to properly assess anything. We may be the chosen bringers of light, but if we act as barbaric as our adversaries then we are no better than them. Now, get this room cleaned and then yourself. You are royalty, act like it." With that Alruna and Lilyth left, leaving Armas to bicker and throw tantrums.
"Thank you, mother.", Lilyth said, "I must go now."
"Go, my daughter.", said Alruna. Lilyth bowed and entered her chamber.
"Fenris.", she spoke, "Is everything ready?"
"Yes, princess.", Fenris said, "The savage stands before you in chains and the scribe has prepared the parchment."
"Excellent. Scribe, you are to document any and all findings. Listen carefully. Do you understand?"
"Yes, princess.", answered the scribe.
"Let us begin.", Lilyth said as she walked to the captive, "What is your name?"
"You know that.", he answered and received a back-handed slap. After moving his head back, he answered, "Brian O'Neil."
"Where are you from?"
"My mom.", to which he received a punch in the stomach. It didn't hurt a lot, considering he was a large man. "The United States of America."
"Tell me more about it."
"It's a unity of fifty-two states with three hundred and fifty million people."
This shocked Lilyth but she didn't show it, "Are there more countries?"
"Many more. My country isn't even the biggest one."
"So there are more empires in your world."
"No, there aren't any."
Lilyth paused for a moment, "Then what?"
"We are a republic. We elect our leader and that leader represents us. He doesn't have all the power and all of his decisions are put to a vote. Empires and kings are a thing of the past."
"You expect me to believe that? A nation cannot function without a centralized figure controlling it."
Brad chuckled, "We use to think that, too. But we found out that the opposite is true. One person can control a city, or maybe a small nation. But the bigger a nation gets and the more powerful it gets, the more strain appears on a single person. This is why our nations are governed by dozens of people and we have careful systems for governance. A single person is not enough. He would only bring ruin."
This shocked Lilyth more. A system like this was always theorized by politicians and philosophers, but nothing was ever tested because the emperors abolished it, saying that it goes against the path of light. "You say that. But our empire has grown powerful and spread across the world. We have become its rulers and spreaders of wisdom, knowledge, and civilization."
"There used to be an empire in my world that thought just like you. They wanted to conquer the entire world and make it so that only their ways exist. Do you want to know what happened?"
"What?"
"They became too big. There was too much ground. Their forces were spread thin and could be picked off by united barbarians who didn't like their ways. War stopped and since their economy depended on it, it crumbled. Their politicians became corrupt and power-hungry. They stole from and even killed each other. Eventually, they fell beneath the force of the united kingdoms they called savages and were wiped out. This is why no one can truly conquer the world. No matter how hard you fight, the world always wins."
Lilyth clenched her fists and stared at Brad with an angered look, "You say that we will end up the same?"
"If you refuse to change, then yes.".
After staring at him for a few moments, she spoke, "Fenris! Take him back to his cell. We will continue this tomorrow."
"At once, princess.", Fenris said and grabbed Brad by the arm.
As they were walking out the door, Brad turned his head to Fenris, "You know she likes you, right?".
Fenris looked at him for a bit before pushing him forward. Lilyth was left to ponder Brad's words. There is still much for her to learn.
---
(That night)
Somewhere between Meilume capital and Una
Being a prisoner is never good. Your rights are taken away and the ones who captured you can do anything they want to you. They could kill you, sell you or worse. This was the predicament the Belus family found itself in. Out of the two hundred soldiers that accompanied them, only one soldier remained, the others were killed and fed to the welfen and leanoids. The Belus family was in a cage with the last soldier, Klaus, and a servant, Lia. The five of them were all sitting with their hands tied behind their backs, wondering what will happen next. Taria was still grieving over the death of Aego, not even lifting her head.
"Bellon.", Nimriel whispered, "What will happen to us?"
"Do not worry.", Bellon said, "We will alright."
"Stop lying, father.", Taria said, still with head lowered, "These people will first rape us, torture us and then demand ransom from the empire."
"Hush, my lady.", Lia said, "Don't say such things."
"What? The truth?"
"You should listen to the little girl.", said a rogue elf as he crouched in front of the cage. Behind him was the fire in the center of the camp with four more rogues, two leanoids, and one welfen. Most of the bandits were asleep, only over a dozen stayed awake. "The money we'll get from you will make us set for life. Sure, we might have lost more than half our men, but that just means more for the living."
Taria spat, "Open this cage and I'll show you a little girl."
The rogue chuckled, "Quite a fighter. I saw you kill that leanoid. You're good. Why don't you come with us?"
"Why would I join a bunch of good-for-nothing traitors? You know nothing of honor, duty or the light."
The rogue laughed, "They still teach that shit? The light is nothing but a made-up excuse the first emperor made so we can take these lands. People like us? We see the truth. And all of you are being manipulated."
"You dare mock the path of light?", asked Bellon.
"Shouldn't a bad joke be mocked?"
Taria and Bellon gritted their teeth. This is why rogues are killed on sight. They know nothing but greed. As Taria stared at the rogue, something appeared in the corner of her vision. A man in green armor held a black boomstick and aimed it at the bandits by the fire. She looked around and saw six more. Are they insane? If they fire it, it will alert everyone. But when they fired them, only a slight sound was heard. Enough for the rogue in front of her to turn around. He saw his mates dead, but couldn't call for help as his neck was ripped out by a welfen. The Belus family was in shock as the welfen opened the cage.
"Don't be afraid.", he spoke, "I'm with the Americans."
This confused the family. "Who?", Taria asked.
Soon after, a soldier in green got to them, "My name is Lieutenant Caden Roberts of RG-3. We're here to rescue you.". He cut their ropes and waved his hand to signal the rest of his men. As they moved, Taria saw the dead bodies of the bandits and when they got out of the camp she could see that only fifteen soldiers, including two tribals, came to rescue them.
"Who are you people?", Taria asked.
"We're the Rift Expeditionary Force from the United States of America.", said the lieutenant as he pressed a small metallic box which caused the entire bandit camp to get engulfed in flames. The bandits burned and screamed, some ran out of the camp but got shot by the green soldiers. Their camouflaged armor, repeating broomsticks, and fire magic puzzled Taria greatly. She couldn't even see their faces from their masks and eyewear. Who are they? Her questions had to wait a little longer, as iron carriages moved from behind them and opened.
"Lieutenant, is it go time?", spoke the man from one of the carriages.
"Yeah.", said the lieutenant, "Let's go, I'll get them to the MRAP. Come on.". He led the five of them to the middle carriages through its back door. It looked like it was completely made of metal and that it could take a cannon shot. This just further confused them. As the carriages started moving, they noticed that it was going at high speeds, even faster than horses.
"Who are you?", Bellon asked, "What do you want from us?"
The soldiers in front of them looked at each other before taking their masks and helmets off, revealing their pale faces. It wasn't anything sinister and they didn't look like they intended to harm them.
"I am sergeant Jeff Parker.", spoke one of them.
"I am staff sergeant Liam Cook.", spoke the other one, "Over here is Lioba, our feelian, and Olaf, our friendly welfen."
"It's welfen that attacked us.", Klaus spoke.
"Do not speak as if they are of my kind.", said Olaf in an angered tone, "Those beasts lost their meaning in life."
"What do you mean?", Jeff asked.
"Each wolf lives for the pack. For the tribe. He fights for it, provides for it, and dies for it. These wolves, they've abandoned their blood and chosen the life of a wild animal. They're no better than the ferals."
"I see. We have those too. We call them deserters. They flee the army and abandon their brothers. And so we hunt them down and punish them."
"As you should."
After some silence, Klaus spoke, "Forgive me. I meant no disrespect.". Olaf nodded.
"Are you taking us home?", Nimriel asked.
"No.", Liam said, "We're taking you to Galdush. Our lieutenant-general wishes to speak with you. Well, lord Bellon more specifically." The five went silent. This was the enemy from the rift, and now they're taking them to their leader.
"Are we to become your slaves then?", Taria asked.
Jeff and Liam chuckled a bit. "No no, of course not. That kind of thing is in the past for us. Our lieutenant-general only wants to speak with you. After a nice conversation, we will personally bring you back to the Meilume capital."
"How do you know its name?", Bellon asked.
"We have our ways. Now sit back and enjoy the ride.", Liam said as he pulled some blocks out of his pocket. When he opened it, it was gray and seemed to be food. After offering it to Lia, he spoke, "Hungry?". After some hesitation, Lia took it and tasted it. It was quite delicious. As she ate the whole thing, Liam chuckled as he opened a bag, "Don't strain yourself, I have enough for everyone."
---
(Several hours later)
Fort Galdush
"My lady.", said Lia as she shook Taria, "My lady, wake up, we've arrived."
Taria woke up, "What? How long have I been asleep?"
"A few hours, my lady."
This was surprising, to say the least, "We're already here?". She looked out the window and saw their fort as well as their machines. The M2 battle tanks rolled over the hills and fired at the targets, blasting through them. She saw soldiers shooting their guns and groups running in a circle. At the gate, the lieutenant introduced himself and the convoy continued. Inside, they could see soldiers clad in thick, metal armor carrying large boxes and as they got out of the MRAP they saw the Invictus ACs flying in the air. All of this overwhelmed them. To them, these were otherworldly monsters. To the rangers, it was a normal everyday occurrence.
Lieutenant Roberts stood in front of his men, "Alright. I will take lord Bellon Belus to lieutenant-general Coleman. Parker, Cook, you take the rest to their temporary residents."
"Yes sir.", both of them said as they saluted, "Okay, let's go. I promise it's nothing bad."
Taria, Lia, Nimriel, and Klaus went with Jeff and Liam to their residence while Caden took Bellon to the lieutenant-general. The two of them went into the central command building.
"Lieutenant Caden Roberts of Rift Group 3 here to see colonel Andrew Marshal and lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman.", he said to a woman who worked as a secretary.
After some delay, the woman nodded, "Go down the hall to meeting room two."
"Thank you. Come on.". Bellon followed Caden through the hall. He admired how it was crystal clear and pearl white like they were made of pure marble. As they walked they reached the meeting room and entered. Inside were two men who stood up immediately.
"Good morning.", said the first man, "I am lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman of the Rift Expeditionary Corp. And this is our logistics officer, colonel Andrew Marshal."
"Nice to meet you.", Andrew said, "You are the lord of Meilume, Bellon Belus, correct?"
Bellon stuttered, "Y-Yes I am. Great general, you have my eternal gratitude for saving my life, and my family.", he said as he bowed.
"Please.", Patrick spoke, "No need to bow. And please call me Patrick. Sit down."
"Thank you, Patrick.", Bellon said as he sat down, Caden next to him.
"While I accept your gratitude, I'm going to need to ask something else of you?"
'Of course. What was I expecting?', Bellon thought, "And what would that be? If it is gold I assure you the emperor will pay a decent sum for my family and me."
"Oh no, god no. I'm not asking for money. I need something from you that only someone of your status within the empire can provide."
'Someone of my status'. "What exactly?"
"As you know, your empire opened a rift in our country and attacked without warning and unprovoked. We beat the invasion force and the force than came after it. You lost two armies in less than a month, or, a moon cycle as you call them."
"Yes, I am aware of this. What does that have to do with me? I didn't send those armies."
"We know. But you have a connection with the person who did. And we want you to send a message to him for us."
'A message?' "And what kind of message?"
"We would like an audience with a representative to negotiate peace."
This stunned Bellon. 'Peace?'
---
(Meanwhile)
Jeff and Liam brought the four to an empty army barracks, reserved for these situations. "Okay.", Liam spoke, "You'll be staying here until the lieutenant-general orders otherwise. Don't worry, you'll be comfortable." They entered the barracks and it was clean, with several beds, a fridge, desks, and lights, which Jeff turned on, surprising the 'guests'.
"Make yourselves at home.", Jeff said, "I'll bring you some breakfast soon.". He left and closed the door, leaving the four to talk.
"What do you think will happen, Klaus?", Nimriel asked.
"I don't know, my lady.", he answered, "But we shouldn't do anything to anger them. I think we should wait and see what is to come."
Taria looked out the window and saw the tanks and LAVs driving past as well as soldiers marching in unison. "Incredible. All this power. They could have destroyed Meilume before we even had the chance to escape. And yet here we are. In their fortress, waiting for them to bring us food. They want something."
"Well.", Lia said, "That man who offered me the sweet food was nice. I think they're not that bad."
"They are the enemy, Lia. Enemies should never be trusted. It might seem like they are good, but they are using us. They want us here so we can witness their power and use us to spread fear through the rest of the empire. Clever."
"I think you are thinking too much about it, my lady. Perhaps you need to sit down, and rest."
Taria sighed. She walked to a nearby desk and observed the notebooks, pens, and pencils. She sat down and opened a notebook, immediately noticing how the paper is milk-white with lines to help her writing. Picking up one of the pens, she observed how smooth it was and made of spotless, thin metal, but also how it didn't have a tip. Then she noticed the round top and remembered how the lieutenant pressed his metal box. Pressing down the top, the pen clicked and the tip appeared. Amazed, she clicked it several more times before starting to write.
"Taria?", Nimriel asked, "What are you doing?"
"I'm writing down what I saw."
At that moment, Jeff opened the door and brought several white cardboard boxes, "I brought breakfast. I hope it's to your liking."
Each of them took one and Jeff put the last one on Taria's desk. She looked at him and asked, "Can you show me more of your fortress?"
Jeff hesitated a bit, "Why?"
"I'm curious. I wish to learn."
"So you can write it down and give the information to the army?". Taria sat silently. This wasn't untrue. "Look, we're not your enemy. Our commanding officer is talking to your father about peace. Truth is, we don't want war.". Taria paused to think about that. "But if I get permission, I'll show you around."
"I would appreciate it. Thank you."
End of chapter 10
​
---
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^{Yes, before anyone says anything I know I can insert links into text. Some episodes will have this, some won't.}
The Walking Dead:
CARVER WANTS TO BE HITLER SO BAD The Walking Dead Season 2 [EP3][P1]https://web.archive.org/web/20160922201711/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9b0cvXCVBNU
FINDING A WAY OUT OF THIS PRISON The Walking Dead S2 [EP3][P2]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160927225103/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUuVUaVJnoU
​
Bully:
THERE'S A NEW BULLY IN TOWN Bully: Scholarship Edition [1]
https://web.archive.org/web/20161105095348/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaxAzccsS4k&gl=US&hl=en
DON"T PEE YOUR PANTS BRO! BULLY [2]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160612151355/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-wqquBRPco&gl=US&hl=en
MAKING OUT WITH THE HERPES CHICK BULLY [3]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160613194254/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V7wgbDa1DA&gl=US&hl=en
GARY, THE HALLOWEEN HITLER! BULLY [4]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160615201036/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-14-wi8yCM&gl=US&hl=en
THE FIGHT TO END ALL BULLYING Bully [END]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160813170441/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uFxOLUENw8
​
Yandere Simulator:
SENPAI HAS A SMALL D Yandere Simulator [2]
THINGS GET WEIRD AS HELL! Yandere Simulator [3]
OKA CAN SEE GHOSTS?!?! Yandere Simulator Myths
THE POLICE ARE HERE!! Yandere Simulator Myths
COOL UNDERTALE SCREEN GLITCH! Yandere Simulator Myths
HOW TO SUMMON A DEMON! Yandere Simulator Myths
TOP 10 MOST OVER ASKED MYTHS Yandere Simulator Myths
HOW TO MAKE STUDENTS FEAR KOKONA! Yandere Simulator Myths
CAN YOU ESCAPE THESE BLOOD THIRSTY BEASTS?! Yandere Simulator Myths
WHEN YOU'RE SO HUNGRY YOU COULD EAT SOMEONE Yandere Simulator Myths
YAN CHAN'S NEW POWERS MAY SHOCK YOU Yandere Simulator
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Welcome To The Game:
THE DISTURBING SITES OF THE DEEP WEB (MY WORST SCARE) (MOST LIKELY THE FIRST EPISODE?)
https://web.archive.org/web/20160526150656/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZJvw95O5Y8
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Welcome To The Game 2.0:
STOP CALLING ME WITH YOUR HOT BREATH Welcome To The Game 2.0 (New Sites & Enemy)
https://web.archive.org/web/20161111154710/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32JvUcqLS4s
Unsure of the specific title, the archive is just the video. The episode number is THREE.
https://web.archive.org/web/20180411175711oe_/https://r5---sn-n4v7sn7z.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?ip=207.241.231.173&mime=video%2Fmp4&pl=20&source=youtube&mv=m&dur=876.622&expire=1523491014&lmt=1523460781659659&ipbits=0&mm=31%2C26&mn=sn-n4v7sn7z%2Csn-nx57ynlz&c=WEB&id=o-ANj5KH9u0otUI6IGCA7Y5OJ-_7V20rz1G_EDOwldmLOs&key=yt6&ms=au%2Conr&initcwndbps=4928750&requiressl=yes&sparams=dur%2Cei%2Cid%2Cinitcwndbps%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Citag%2Clmt%2Cmime%2Cmm%2Cmn%2Cms%2Cmv%2Cpl%2Cratebypass%2Crequiressl%2Csource%2Cexpire&ei=ZkzOWs6OGIG0-gPU6LTIBg&itag=22&mt=1523469289&signature=4179EF0A558460268D425DACE2E98A4C499BD8B5.4F64447CAFA4B0CFE0B53447D102ECA6FB42B8A4&ratebypass=yes&fvip=5&signature=
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Papers, Please! (No specific title names due to the nature of how they've been archived):
Episode 2
Episode 4
Episode 5
Episode 8
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Detroit: Become Human:
Kubz Scouts - I can't make any mistakes in this episode｜Detroit: Become Human (Detroit: Become Human) - Episode 11 (TRANSLATED FROM THE CURRENT CHINESE RE-UPLOAD, THE RE-UPLOAD HAS WATERMARKS ON IT SO I WILL POST THE ARCHIVE FOR A BETTER WATCHING EXPERIENCE)
https://web.archive.org/web/20180608181713/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqOShRWlCzg&gl=US&hl=en
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South Park: Stick Of Truth:
THE LEGEND OF DOUCHEBAG BEGINS! (FUNNY AS HELL) South Park: Stick Of Truth [1]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160704200434/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjnQQsQ36Uk
NAZI COWS & MR. HANKEY POOPER POWER South Park: SOT [6]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160719235547/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v210cirWI7c
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The Wolf Among Us:
HOW TO TORTURE A F#%KBOY The Wolf Among Us [EP2][P1]
https://web.archive.org/web/20161029130745/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jgOwbkDZQo&gl=US&hl=en
YOU KNOW WHY I'M HERE The Wolf Among Us [EP2][P2]
https://web.archive.org/web/20161105213259/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGwIn10l5Gg&gl=US&hl=en
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Try Not To Laugh:
YOU LAUGH, YOU LOOK AT A REDDIT 50/50 Try To Make Me laugh
https://web.archive.org/web/20170729170445/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xfq8YCJMI4
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I HAVE NO WORDS FOR MOST OF THESE SUBMISSIONS
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Fran Bow: IT WAS ALL A F#%KED UP DREAM?! Fran Bow [END]
https://web.archive.org/web/20161027161040/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0ibv8u9DSg
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60 Seconds:
THE DRUG ADDICT CHALLENGE! 60 Seconds Game
5 STAGES OF GRIEF CHALLENGE! 60 Seconds Game
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HunieCam Studio:
RECRUITING ALL MILFS & BIG BUTTS Huniecam Studio [1]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160421190604mp_/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BonawXKDzc&gl=US&hl=en
JESSIE & HER DOUBLE DAMNS HunieCam Studio [3]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160508150411/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxFOIFykZKw&gl=US&hl=en
PIMPING MY LADIES FOR A D%&K TROPHY HunieCam Studio [4]
https://web.archive.org/web/20201122234302/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJvMiA53eMM
EYES ON THE PRIZE HunieCam Studio [5]
https://web.archive.org/web/20160520200555/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVJaD0Pff40&gl=US&hl=en
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Home Sweet Home:
Episode 3, unsure of the exact title due to the page not loading properly. (THE VIDEO LOADS PERFECTLY FINE)https://web.archive.org/web/20171011125747/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvpbSdDKTpA&gl=US&hl=en
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Other Random Videos:
ASKING THE "TOO PERSONAL" QUESTIONS Reddit's 50/50/50 Challenge (With Gloom Games)
MR STEAL YOUR GIRL Very Organized Thief
HOW TO NETFLIX, HOW TO CHILL Netflix & Chill Simulator
WHEN YOU ASK AN INNOCENT ASIAN TO ROB A MANSION Sneak Thief [2]
WHY AM I WEARING HER PANTIES?! One Night Stand Simulator (FULL GAME)
IT LITERALLY DOESN’T GET MUCH WORSE THAN THIS Drunk Friend Simulator
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Videos CONFIRMED to NOT be archived (videos that are not saved on wayback machine):
Life Is Strange, Heavy Rain, The Wolf Among Us (TWO episodes are archived that we know of so far, posted above)
Videos being looked for currently: Catherine, Persona 4, Resident Evil 7, Bully, and Huniecam Studio

is it just me or is the station area restriction kinda.. meh.
in order to build a semi-big settlement, we need to spam workbenches, forges and stonecutters.
wouldn´t it just make more sense to need just the tools and supplies ?
and by that I mean dedicated tools & supplies.
so , workbench lets you craft : hammer (better version as we need the basic one to craft the workbench) basic saw (bonesaw maybe ? )
dowels, needed for real house construction
the forge lets you build metal tools. but the main upgrade would be a metal saw and nails.
and the stonecutter lets you carve extra decorative stone, sculptures and stone carving / masonry toolset.
so, you would still need each station. but instead of spamming the constrction area with each station and not needing it for anything else, you would need the station to repair tools and / or carve stones to keep working.
what do you guys think ?

My gf (26y/o) just woke up with chickenpox all over her torso and upper thighs, she works in a daycare/nursery (children from age 0-3 years old)
Luckily I have had it when I was 2 years old (I'm 28 btw) is there any way we can speed it up so that she can get over it faster?
Edit: I have an outdoor spa with hot water (40 degrees Celsius) can she use it for spreading it faster over her body?

I am working on a REST API that is currently consumed by a Single Page Application (SPA). I have set up a public client for the SPA and a secret client for the API with roles and protocol mappers, which is functioning properly. However, now users are requesting the ability to authorize third-party Command Line Interface (CLI) tools to access the API on their behalf for a subset of resources with read-only access.
On the API side, I understand I will have to implement filters to check which scopes are valid for which resources, but on Keycloak side, how do I enable authorization for third-party access and allow users to consent to certain scopes?
A simple scenario: - Alice (who has the role Admin) logs in to my SPA and has full access to the API - Alice authorizes a third-party tool with the scope "transactions:read" which will give the tool access only to GET /api/transactions

This is one of those rare "Pa is away for most of the episode" shows. Translation: Caroline and Mary will do battle. We begin with Pa building an addition onto the house (!!), but I hope you don't get too optimistic because there won't be any extra bedrooms, just that a water pump will be put into the kitchen and a remodel of that room. Charles knocks out a wall. We move to the Post Office, where that dingbat Kezia is today's postmistress, filling in for an ill Mrs. Whipple. Kezia is opening other people's mail again (a federal offense, played for laughs). Kezia hands Doc Baker a letter from Lars with news for Charles: the railroad accepted Lars' bid on a job, which means that will get top priority over the Ingalls house remodel. Caroline tries to make the best of it, but an unfortunate series of events unfolds: Carrie falls in the creek, then THE INGALLS COW! barges right into the house and eats their supper, then it starts to rain with that wall still down. Pa comes by to help finish the job of putting a tarp up in the meantime. Charles takes off for the job and just as things are beginning to look a bit bleak for the Ingalls, a handsome young handyman just appears right out of thin air and offers to finish the remodel. Caroline says she can't pay much, but the handyman (who goes by Chris) offers to work for room and board. Caroline still isn't sure, so Chris offers the Oleson's as a reference. Caroline immediately heads over to the Mercantile and Harriet offers a ringing endorsement of Chris, so Caroline heads back to her house and hires him. Chris gets to work and immediately endears himself to everyone.
Chris probably didn't mean to, but he comes off as a replacement for Charles, even playing the fiddle and taking the family to church on Sunday morning. This isn't lost on Mary. Sunday night finds Charles having a conversation with Caroline at the front door. Caroline won't let him in at that hour but she does talk to him. Caroline has her hair down which looks very beautiful, something that Chris notices. Now we get into the good stuff: The next day, lunchtime at the school finds the Ingalls girls sitting down trying to have their meal, but Nellie swings by with talk of "monkey business" at the Ingalls place. Tremendous camera/directorial work as they show Mary getting up from a seated position to show her height over Nellie, then cuffing her something fierce. Everyone nailed that part. Nellie runs off. Laura is offended that Mary hit Nellie and threatens to tell Ma and I can't tell if she really feels that way or if she's just trying to get revenge on Mary for all the times she told Ma and Pa about things she did, but considering how many times Laura hit and pushed people herself, it's probably the latter. Mary is in one of her "not taking any crap today" moods and orders Laura not to tell. Laura gets that particular message and obeys. Back at the Ingalls house, Chris falls off the roof, tearing and bloodying his shirt. Chris just gets right back up and goes back to work, but Caroline orders him to takes his shirt off and tells him he's lucky he didn't break his neck. Caroline gives him the shirt Mary gifted Pa in "Christmas At Plum Creek" and tells him to watch what he's doing. The girls come home from school and Mary notices immediately. CAROLINE VS MARY, ROUND ONE! Mary enters the house and angrily demands Ma tell her why Chris is wearing the shirt she made for Pa. Now see, if Caroline were smart, she would have kept her duplicate shirt she made as it would have came in handy here, but instead she calmly explains what happened and asks Mary why she's using that tone of voice. Mary apologizes, then eventually admits to hitting Nellie. Ma tells her to control her temper. Mary's mood rebounds somewhat, though she's still leery of recent events.
Pa stops by for a brief visit. Chris decides this is too awkward and ducks out for a brief bit while this is going on. Mary pleads with Pa to stay, but Pa declines and leaves again. Chris returns and Ma asks him where he's been. Chris gets evasive, but Caroline presses the issue and Chris angrily tells her that he's been in this situation before. Later at the creek, Caroline is getting buckets of water and Chris is cleaning up. Chris apologizes for his earlier behavior. Caroline gets up and slips and Chris catches her with Mary looking on.
Nighttime finds Mary ducking out of the house to stop by the Ingalls guest room: the sod house (where Chris is staying), which isn't easy to do considering Ma is right there and there is no door. Mary angrily orders him to pack up and leave, which Chris does. And now, CAROLINE VS. MARY, ROUND TWO! The next morning, Mary is working in the barn when Ma stops by, wondering if she knows what happened to Chris. Mary gets evasive, which gets Caroline suspicious. Mary tells Ma that she didn't know it meant that much to her. Ma has had ENOUGH of this disrespect and swings Mary around by the arm, demanding to know what the reason is for all this backtalk. Mary says she saw her and Chris out by the creek holding each other. Ma is shocked, then angrily explains what happened, saying it wasn't an embrace. Ma starts to run off, but Mary starts crying again and apologizes. They go and track down Chris making his way out of town and ask him to return, but he states his desire to return to the wandering lifestyle. Later, Pa returns, which gets everyone elated, and he promises to finish the job.
THE JERRY SPRINGER FINAL THOUGHT - This was a fun episode and probably the most rebellious Mary ever got. Chris was an enjoyable character and the actor that played him (Gil Gerard) probably would have a great replacement if something ever happened to Landon or if he decided he had enough and quit. Just exactly how much chemistry there was between Caroline and Chris is a matter of some debate, but there definitely seemed to be some sparks there and Caroline didn't exactly do a lot to deflect that. I mentioned revenge earlier between Laura and Mary and I do have to wonder if Caroline still had some lingering doubts about Charles and the Widow Thurmond from earlier, which might explain some of her behavior here. And finally, there's the Ingalls cow, which seems to have some sort of grudge against everyone in the household. Tempers were definitely flaring in this one and there were some hurt feelings, but it still manages to be a fun and enjoyable outing all things considered.

In our big show-down at the Avandra Prayer site, Aloysia managed to snatch the Jewel and make her escape through the portal while the party was battling the rivals. After a stalemate hostage situation and heavy negotiations Dermot healed back a player character on the condition that the rivals could leave through the portal unhindered. That left the party alone at the Prayer site in the heart of BR.
The party cleric (former wearer of the Jewel) prayed to her deity and received a blessing that guided her investigation check to find another teleportation tablet. So eventually the party did arrive in Ank’Harel however with neither Aloysia, the rivals nor Prolix or Question…
So they have begun exploring the city and I’ve given them access to map and info that all 3 factions are present in the city.
I am planning to run the “The Price of Beauty” module (from Candlekeep Mysteries) as a sort of filler quest where they visit a fancy day spa in the city to look for a local contact that the party rogue knows in Ank’Harel.
But from there on I don’t yet know how to proceed…how will the group steal the Jewel back from the Consortium? The book doesn’t really present any ideas for that scenario 🤷🏻‍♀️

Aaj ka block dekha aap sabne fraaaands?? ( major pet peeve of digging nasty long crapy nails in the pakoda batter 🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮 and "GAS (guess) karo" angrejji )..dabba is concerned funny getting all the praises and she wants tareef for herself ..kya kehte ho chabutra ji ki tareef mein?
Arzz kiya hai...
Funny ko kehne lage log ke dhaansoo hai, Dabba ke is baat pe nikal gaye aansoo hain...
Funny ke jokes mein hai gajab variety, Dabba ke paas sirf bachi hai anxiety
Funny eebrahims ki vaat lagayega, Tab dabba ko purana waqt yaad aayega
Funny ne sachayi aur imandari ka paath suna lagta hai, Par dabba ne ek hi dialogue seekha hai - 'fraaaandsss Gunaah lagta hai..'..
Thoko taali

There was a lot of mystery and intrigue to the insane clown posse at the time of the first deck of the joker's cards. And even greater anticipation at the drop of the sixth joker's card, The Wraith. From a creative standpoint, they absolutely nailed what they were going for in a decade long run that was really impressive to me to this day. The final track on The Wraith was like a buildup Ive never seen. There is some s*** I've missed in the 2nd deck but for the most part, after listening to what I have,. It just seems like more music and less creative imagery. Basically I don't give a f*** if they have a point or not, I'm just wondering if anybody is paying close enough attention to notice one or not.

Shattered Realities
“WILLIAM! GET ME OUT OF HERE” Marie ordered in a stern loud voice, without another second passing Marie was finally out of the shithole that she had been cornered in. William eyed the person who stood in front of him. Even though they shared the same physical features, he couldn’t help but feel that another person brewed out from the gallery. “What have you done Wills?” whispered William to himself. William knew what the first memory held, what he didn’t know or rather what he wasn’t sure of is how Marie will react to this ground-breaking news. {Well, it TOTALLY seems like she enjoyed what she saw.} He thought to himself. William extended his hands to touch Marie -a fatal mistake he will later realise-; she was quick to snap back, slapping his hands fiercely. For a moment, William caught glance of the monster burning within Marie, it didn’t require a genius to figure out that these scorching flames were dangerous to just be around, and yet here he was.
“DON’T TOUCH ME” exploded Marie. She didn’t even think twice about jumping away and concealing her body as much as she could. Disgust, just like smoke, it slowly filled the air. Alongside it came the sense of suffocation that gripped William tightly from his throat. Oh, how much did that hurt. The words slid into William’s ears; it didn’t take long for him to feel the venomous bite strike his heart. It was the look that Wills had always been afraid of. It was EXACTLY what he was terrified of facing in his life. A feeling that was facing William right in the face and a feeling that unlike Wills, he can’t escape. It was funny in a way; he was just born a couple of hours ago -against his will might one add- only to find himself hated or even feared by the very thing he adored to the cores of his bones. William cursed the day that Wills created him. He tried to reach for words, he tried to find something in his archive that might help him in comforting Marie. As expected, all of that fell short, Wills was never prepared for this situation. In the end, he muttered the most meaningless useless words that he could find in such a situation. “I’m sorry Marie.” He cringed internally, what was a sorry going to do? How was it going to help? How could it fix the world that fill apart? How was it going to compensate for the hours, days, months, or years that were wasted with someone who was fake from start to end? How could he ever understand what she was feeling right now?
“SORRY? SORRY!? IS THAT ALL YOU CAN SAY? ALL YOU CAN OFFER? WHAT DOES A SORRY DO FOR ME? HUH, TELL ME!?” Marie wasn’t seeing straight, she launched herself onto William before drilling her fists as deeply as she could in the body of the man she loved. Used to. William took it all in without saying a word, without moving, without causing a sound. For him, it was the least he could do to her. Marie dug her nails into his chest before clenching the cloth he wore. “WHAT CAN IT DO FOR ME? WHAT CAN IT DO? COME ON WILLIAM TELL ME. WHY ARE YOU SO SILENT WILLIAM?!” She shacked the poor man. He could swear that he was feeling his molecules vibrate more than they should ever do. Seeing how much of a wreck Marie had become only added to his feeling of powerlessness, he was supposed to be a know it all and yet he failed in the only thing he was built for.
Instinctively -if you can call his coding routes that-, he hugged Marie. He wasn’t sure if it was out of pity or because it was the correct thing to do. Either way, it didn’t matter, it just felt right for him and that’s what did actually matter. Luckily for him that seemed to work, because as soon as he wrapped those arms around the piled-up woman, tears rolled down her cheeks. Marie’s legs grew weak, slowly but surely giving out at this sudden unexpected burst. A tear, that was all it needed for Marie to fully break down into a crying mess. William stood there; he didn’t say a word, he couldn’t dare to. Hours passed, the tears painted the clothes, the mourning was the only sound that could be heard for miles then finally silence doomed the place. A deafening sense of relief covered the land. Time breathed. At last, it could move again. Even with the freedom of time there wasn’t much that changed, Marie still refused to budge from the spot she was kneeling on with her fingers fixed firmly in William’s chest. William just accepted her sorrow, that’s the least he could do, that’s the least he could offer to the person he loved the most. He couldn’t dismiss the non-diffusible stings he had. In a way, they were like strings of guitars, yanked strongly, horribly, by an inhumane force. They were being ripped free, they were being dislocated from their once safe heaven, and all he thought about was if he could give every single one of them to her.
“I love you, Marie.” He whispered “I also know that Wills loved you as much as I did if not more.” Marie didn’t reply, she looked into the distance -with her now dreadfully empty eyes-, looking at the nothingness that stood in front of her. The sky, oh how pretty they were, called her. She always loved the cyan bright portrait that covered the Earth. People often undermined how beautiful nature is, unless they were someone as Observant as her or…him -at least who she used to think he was-.
“How is that going to help me?” Muttered Marie under her breath. “Oh Marie, come on. Don’t be like that.” “I WILL BE HOWEVER I WISH TO BE WILLIAM!” shrieked Marie. William couldn’t help but get startled a bit. Marie seemed to realise that she had been lashing on the wrong person. William wasn’t the one she was supposed to be attacking rather the one who left this world. The one who took away her ability of ever having the joy of facing him. From that moment forward, William and Marie refused to share even a glance at each other. There were no more words spoken; no more conversations held. Quietness descended on the room with two broken shells held right beside each other in the arms of one another but each of them in a realm of their own. “Get me out William.” Demanded Marie. There was no respect, adoration or even a form of affection in her voice. It was nothing more nor less than a form of inconvenience to her -that’s what she showed at least-. Normally, William would have argued, made a snarky comment or flat out refused but under these tense circumstances he couldn’t help himself from submitting his will to the person who seemed to dominate him both in mind and soul. William extended his hand as he slowly caressed her face for one last time. He wiped away the traces of the tear on her face with his soft tinder hands. As Marie “ascended” back into reality, a tear could be seen jerking down from William’s face, for he knew it would be the last time they meet. Marie couldn’t help but wonder how a “robot” could feel such deep feelings, but it didn’t matter, nothing did any more.
Pitch black, that was what Marie woke up to see. She quickly checked her pockets, searching for her phone. It was 12am, right at midnight. A sense of relief washed over her before a sudden jerk of panic set in, she jumped back when she noticed that she had spent nearly two days inside the metal tag. The Carters will come over in a half a day. [Perfect] thought Marie to herself [Just what I needed, more stuff to deal with.] [Don’t be like that. Think about it from a different point of view. At least you will be able to talk to someone!] [NOW you come back huh? Where were you literally a couple of minutes ago? Hm? Anyways, no. I don’t wish to talk to the Carters right now. I prefer staying to ourselves for a couple of days. Especially with what just happened with their son.] [You had a VERY large outburst back there. I didn’t see us crumble this badly since the day Dad died.] [Well, how would you have reacted to it? Everything, EVERY moment from the minute details to the large grand memories were all built on a fake lying premise.] [I agree Marie, there is no way we will be stable after such a blow, but his parents have nothing to do with him. Need I remind you? They are the parents we never had. They care Marie. If anything, I think talking to them about it will maybe help us in sorting this out.] Marie didn’t reply to herself. She just decided to stand up and head to bed. This was enough torture for one day. She kept spinning in the bed with the comfort of sleeping slipping further from her hand every second. Although her thoughts kept her awake it wasn’t enough to overpower the emotional exhaustion, her body limped as her consciousness fade into nothingness. Or that’s what she convinced herself she did.
The Carters arrived on the time they have promised a couple of days ago. Mr. Carter LOVED to be on time, his accuracy was within the range of seconds. He was never, in the 25 years that Mrs. Carter had known him, late or early. The Carters knocked on the door multiple times with no response. Mr. Carter was a keen hearer, despite his ever-growing age, yet he couldn’t make a out a muffle, a sound, a rustle. Everything was quiet, suspiciously quiet. The knocks gradually grew louder. An invisible force pulling him forward, rushing him. He could swear he felt a touch pressing on his emotions, a touch that enraged him to act faster, a touch that was familiar, TOO familiar. The Carters didn’t exactly know or rather remember how the door opened but it did and that was all that mattered. They rushed inside. They had hoped from the bottom of their hearts that they were wrong. They had hoped that it wasn’t too late. They had hoped it wasn’t what they thought about. What they didn’t realise was how funny Fate is sometimes. They just lost a child to suicide, a burden only few could lift without breaking under the pressure. Only for fate to surprise them with a more severe slap in their face. She laid there in the hallway, as cold as ice, as white as snow. She was pale. Her chest didn’t buff, her eyes didn’t open, her muscles didn’t tense. She was barely recognisable. What was left of her was a skinny skin suit with striking visible bones. She seemed as if she was not only dehydrated but also starved for days. Inside Mr. Carter something finally snapped, his knees struck the ground, the tough shell that was once placed was now nothing more than a broken vase. Mrs. Carter couldn’t afford to pay attention to her husband, she rushed towards the phone, dialling, hoping to save the poor girl that laid in front of them. Mr. Carter opened his eyes to find himself hugging the corpse of the woman that had loved his son from the bottom of her heart, a woman who he also considered a daughter. He didn’t sob, he didn’t weep. It wasn’t because he refused to. It was simply because he couldn’t. Having to hold his emotions back for so long, the man forgot what crying or even tearing felt like. Even if his psyche gave up, his body has not yet, it refused to, for the touch wouldn’t allow it. Mr. Carter tried calling out to Marie, shaking her body, and holding her as tightly as possible while grieving just like a father who just lost his child. Only when the paramedics arrived had the last silver of connection to this mortal world was cut off, Mr. Carter was now broken beyond repair. The worst of it all was how Mrs. Carter saw what was happening to her husband, but she had no power in her hands to do anything. As there was no hope, there was no cure, there was no way to make this situation into a lovely bubble. Sometimes bad things happen, and they are meant to be. Sometimes horrible events haunt amazing people for unfair reasons but when was life ever fair? How could a life be fair when it took away two lovebirds? How could it be fair if someone as kind as Marie was toyed around thanks to what fate stored up to her? How can someone believe and disbelief in the same faith at the same time? How can someone be so believing of what fate brings when it harbours good and dismisses it when it brings back the blackish news? And so is life. An ever-changing unbound hell.
There was no running. No more. He had to accept what he had done. It was time for him to finally fight off the demons in his mind. The archivist begged the lord to forgive him, for he didn’t forgive him. Forgiveness, a word that he didn’t know about, as he never deserved it. For he has sinned greatly, for he has hurt the only thing they have ever loved. If he will never forgive him then the lord won’t forgive him too. Since he can’t forgive himself, how can one ask for forgiveness from others? May the lord forgive you. May the lord have mercy on you. May you not sin. Praise the Lord, praise the one within. The fall of us has yet to begin. We will bring doom; we will riot those hearts within. We will hold you then.
Author notes
Hey there reader! You finished ‘Foggy Eyes’. Hope it was a pleasant ride. This is a story I wrote to someone dear to me, though I for sure hope she doesn’t read this story, for rather obvious reasons. Personally, I have a belief that everyone deserves their Marie. Sure, we are not all Angles -we can’t be-, all of us are flawed in our own ways but does that mean we don’t deserve love? In a way, love makes us suck less than we truly are, but are you deserving of this gift? This salivating blessing? And what are the standards that you must check to be deserving of such gift? Are they tangible? Is it just the mutual agreement that you both like each other? What makes a person unworthy of love? What even defines love? All of these questions are things that hovered in the back of my mind whenever I thought about how I observe love around me or even try achieving it. Now dear reader, what would it be for you? Do you think you deserve this blessing in disguise? If you do, why? What would make you more befitting of this gift than others on Earth? In the ever-expanding universe, we are nothing but mere specs in space. You are not special, neither am I. We are nothing and that thought is frighteningly comforting. Is it because of our non-existent value that we are allowed to experience something that makes us valuable? In the end, no one decides the value of events in their lives except the one who experiences them. So, my dear reader, make sure to enjoy your self-proclaimed valuable memories to the maximum. You don’t know how long you will last on this Earth, so make sure to seize every breath, every sound and to appreciate the creation that stands residing beside you. For once in your life, take in and I mean TRULY take in the blessings that were bestowed upon you by whatever you believe in. You are lucky to have these little, tiny things in your life that others might not be so fortunate to own.