Kylo ren mask with voice changer
Play with no limits!
2013.01.15 22:02 Play with no limits!
Community for the video game series Disney Infinity! Share your Toybox creations, discuss strategy, and talk with fellow Infiniteers!
2023.06.01 15:17 Phallus_Maximus69E Hitman: Codename 47 - The beginning of an Era
Recommended.
Hitman: Codename 47 is the game that started a whole franchise and presented one of games' most recognizable characters: Agent 47. This game has great ideas impaired by technical limitations, both from the technology of the time and the budget, but counters it by having fun gameplay and a flawless story.
It is amazing how intelligent games were back then, detailing storylines and interesting characters displayed with an easy-to-follow presentation. At the beginning of every mission you go to a briefing where you learn about your target and the details surrounding the hit you are going to perform. This is presented all in text and all you have to do is read it. One of the most interesting aspects of the game is the video of the target filmed by an ICA agent - which gives us an idea of how organized the Agency is.
After the briefing you have the mission map and the equipment list of what you want to bring with you in order to complete your mission. So read the briefing, study the map and pay attention to your surroundings - patrolling paths, NPCs you can talk to, different entry points etc. The game almost always gives you several different courses of action, but it is much more linear than its sequels. There is always one strategy that was clearly the one intended by the developers and level designers; if you are having a very hard time in a mission, or if you take much longer than 10 minutes, chances are you're on the wrong track. Missions take around 5-10 minutes to complete, provided you know what you have to do. You might be able to complete missions in a different way, but it will usually be a much, much harder way.
Hitman: Codename 47 is a stealth game and, therefore, discourages shootouts - but they do happen as part of some missions. This one is a feature I like, even if the moving and shooting mechanics are clanky, as killing a few guards shows how heavily protected your targets are. You have to do that in the Ochoa mission and the Rotterdam missions; and I dread how this feature was abondened in later games. Agent 47 was cloned through the DNA of his French Foreign Legion fathers not to be just an assassin, but to be the perfect soldier; so he knows how to handle himself in a firefight.
This game also has some great details, such as the greatest voice line ever uttered in a video game: "I need to use the BATHroom".
You have to chat with NPCs in order to gather intel, so pay attention. Some voice dialog are weird and somewhat funny, but Lei Ling's best voice is in this version. You will mostly hear “He’s packing!” and “This guys is loaded!” at first, but dialogue such as Ort-Meyer's provide needed context.
The most enduring feature of the Hitman series is the collective of creative kills and approaches, and many of those came from movies (as the game itself). The hit on the Chief of Police took the idea of planting the pistol in the bathroom from the God Father. Ochoa's character is taken from Al Pacino's Tony Montana (Scarface) but the mission looks really based in Sniper (1993) - the targets in both game and movie are called Ochoa - and the soldiers really look like a South American drug army.
One of the most creative missions is "Traditions of the Trade" (the best version), where you have to talk to NPCs and have many different ways of killing Fritz - plus an emblematic hit on Frantz.
Ochoa is the most wronged of the fathers in the series: Colombia has a more military feel, already opening with 47 looking like a jungle warrior king in the loading screen and then rappeling into the middle of the jungle by helicopter. Plus exotic natives, leaf physics and Ochoa's threats during the gunfight - that are hilarious. With all 5 fathers having served in Indochina, the jungle setting is a nice touch and should have been remade (albeit smaller and self-contained in one mission).
Cutscenes and loading screens are great: the cutscene of Tzun protecting Lee Hong from Agent 47 and the killing of Fritz Fuchs in the pool or the sauna.
Given this game was first conceived as a Chinese mobster action game, it is no surprise the Hong Kong missions are so memorable. The presentation screen of Lee Hong, the Lei Ling character arc, saving Agent Smith, and getting the jade figurine.
While people make some constructive complaints, some of them are not - like not having a command for dropping a body, even though all you need to do is hit the right mouse button, something I got right the first time I played (back in the day).
This game is not hard if you're well informed but it's punishing; its main flaw being the faulty AI, with an awereness problem and very thick skin. The guards' AI has only two modes - idle and combat - and sometimes they simply "know" 47 is bad news. Nowhere in this game is this more evident than in Ochoa's hit, with guards attacking you for no reason, and that's why so many people hate it.
Add to that the poor knife mechanic where you can easily slit someone's throat with it, but if he moves you go into a thrust mode. One or two strikes is something you can do before being shot, but needing 4-6 stabs to kill a target is simply too much.
Another complaint about the Colombian missions is the "bad design" of the enemy camp, where you need to run all over the other side of the fence to enter the camp; but this is misplaced, as the design both serves to show you the size of the camp with its many guard patrols, showing how well-guarded the drug lord is, and also because you sneaked from behind said camp.
The main strengths of this game are the story and the atmosphere. The soundtrack made by Jesper Kyd is simply amazing and conveys a perfect immersion to the different settings - action, suspense, fear. My favorites are the Hong Kong and Colombian settings, with their exotic themes. Maps are quite big and populated. The henchmen in each mission are also expertly done and genuine: they range from Chinese Triad members to Colombian drug soldiers, biker gangsters and masked gunrunners. The NPCs are also diverse, with bartenders, hotel staff and sex workers. The presentation is near flawless with unique signature kills and different approaches to make the perfect hit, giving Agent 47 a solid entry into the assassination business.
submitted by Phallus_Maximus69E to videogames [link] [comments]
Hitman: Codename 47 is the game that started a whole franchise and presented one of games' most recognizable characters: Agent 47. This game has great ideas impaired by technical limitations, both from the technology of the time and the budget, but counters it by having fun gameplay and a flawless story.
It is amazing how intelligent games were back then, detailing storylines and interesting characters displayed with an easy-to-follow presentation. At the beginning of every mission you go to a briefing where you learn about your target and the details surrounding the hit you are going to perform. This is presented all in text and all you have to do is read it. One of the most interesting aspects of the game is the video of the target filmed by an ICA agent - which gives us an idea of how organized the Agency is.
After the briefing you have the mission map and the equipment list of what you want to bring with you in order to complete your mission. So read the briefing, study the map and pay attention to your surroundings - patrolling paths, NPCs you can talk to, different entry points etc. The game almost always gives you several different courses of action, but it is much more linear than its sequels. There is always one strategy that was clearly the one intended by the developers and level designers; if you are having a very hard time in a mission, or if you take much longer than 10 minutes, chances are you're on the wrong track. Missions take around 5-10 minutes to complete, provided you know what you have to do. You might be able to complete missions in a different way, but it will usually be a much, much harder way.
Hitman: Codename 47 is a stealth game and, therefore, discourages shootouts - but they do happen as part of some missions. This one is a feature I like, even if the moving and shooting mechanics are clanky, as killing a few guards shows how heavily protected your targets are. You have to do that in the Ochoa mission and the Rotterdam missions; and I dread how this feature was abondened in later games. Agent 47 was cloned through the DNA of his French Foreign Legion fathers not to be just an assassin, but to be the perfect soldier; so he knows how to handle himself in a firefight.
This game also has some great details, such as the greatest voice line ever uttered in a video game: "I need to use the BATHroom".
You have to chat with NPCs in order to gather intel, so pay attention. Some voice dialog are weird and somewhat funny, but Lei Ling's best voice is in this version. You will mostly hear “He’s packing!” and “This guys is loaded!” at first, but dialogue such as Ort-Meyer's provide needed context.
The most enduring feature of the Hitman series is the collective of creative kills and approaches, and many of those came from movies (as the game itself). The hit on the Chief of Police took the idea of planting the pistol in the bathroom from the God Father. Ochoa's character is taken from Al Pacino's Tony Montana (Scarface) but the mission looks really based in Sniper (1993) - the targets in both game and movie are called Ochoa - and the soldiers really look like a South American drug army.
One of the most creative missions is "Traditions of the Trade" (the best version), where you have to talk to NPCs and have many different ways of killing Fritz - plus an emblematic hit on Frantz.
Ochoa is the most wronged of the fathers in the series: Colombia has a more military feel, already opening with 47 looking like a jungle warrior king in the loading screen and then rappeling into the middle of the jungle by helicopter. Plus exotic natives, leaf physics and Ochoa's threats during the gunfight - that are hilarious. With all 5 fathers having served in Indochina, the jungle setting is a nice touch and should have been remade (albeit smaller and self-contained in one mission).
Cutscenes and loading screens are great: the cutscene of Tzun protecting Lee Hong from Agent 47 and the killing of Fritz Fuchs in the pool or the sauna.
Given this game was first conceived as a Chinese mobster action game, it is no surprise the Hong Kong missions are so memorable. The presentation screen of Lee Hong, the Lei Ling character arc, saving Agent Smith, and getting the jade figurine.
While people make some constructive complaints, some of them are not - like not having a command for dropping a body, even though all you need to do is hit the right mouse button, something I got right the first time I played (back in the day).
This game is not hard if you're well informed but it's punishing; its main flaw being the faulty AI, with an awereness problem and very thick skin. The guards' AI has only two modes - idle and combat - and sometimes they simply "know" 47 is bad news. Nowhere in this game is this more evident than in Ochoa's hit, with guards attacking you for no reason, and that's why so many people hate it.
Add to that the poor knife mechanic where you can easily slit someone's throat with it, but if he moves you go into a thrust mode. One or two strikes is something you can do before being shot, but needing 4-6 stabs to kill a target is simply too much.
Another complaint about the Colombian missions is the "bad design" of the enemy camp, where you need to run all over the other side of the fence to enter the camp; but this is misplaced, as the design both serves to show you the size of the camp with its many guard patrols, showing how well-guarded the drug lord is, and also because you sneaked from behind said camp.
The main strengths of this game are the story and the atmosphere. The soundtrack made by Jesper Kyd is simply amazing and conveys a perfect immersion to the different settings - action, suspense, fear. My favorites are the Hong Kong and Colombian settings, with their exotic themes. Maps are quite big and populated. The henchmen in each mission are also expertly done and genuine: they range from Chinese Triad members to Colombian drug soldiers, biker gangsters and masked gunrunners. The NPCs are also diverse, with bartenders, hotel staff and sex workers. The presentation is near flawless with unique signature kills and different approaches to make the perfect hit, giving Agent 47 a solid entry into the assassination business.
- I wrote this review on Steam, if you like it give it a thumbs up there.
- A compact guide (by Anamon), the best guide out there.
2023.06.01 15:13 subredditsummarybot Your weekly /r/Comicbooks recap for the week of May 25 - May 31
Thursday, May 25 - Wednesday, May 31
submitted by subredditsummarybot to comicbooks [link] [comments]
News
Discussion
| score | comments | title & link |
|---|---|---|
| 989 | 39 comments | The charm of this art style :) |
| 574 | 102 comments | The Killing Joke (1988), by Alan Moore |
| 329 | 210 comments | The colour of their clothes changed? (Excerpt from TASM #26) |
Excerpts
| score | comments | title & link |
|---|---|---|
| 2,852 | 211 comments | No masks. [Batman (2016) - Issue #82] |
| 2,223 | 68 comments | The Simpsons?! (New Warriors [1990], #27) |
| 1,391 | 118 comments | Bendis pokes fun at how Silver Age comics were written [Powers #27] |
Fan Creations
Shelfies
| score | comments | title & link |
|---|---|---|
| 136 | 12 comments | Completed Today |
| 24 | 9 comments | [Recommendations] I'm on a mission to collect Post-Crisis Batman trades up to Flashpoint, any suggestions on books with key continuity events I should pick up? |
| 14 | 9 comments | Finally catalogued all my comics! |
CovePin-Up
| score | comments | title & link |
|---|---|---|
| 1,148 | 140 comments | Catwoman #50 unused cover vs. edited / published cover. Art by Tula Lotay. |
| 1,116 | 36 comments | Batman & Rogues by Dan Hipp |
| 801 | 24 comments | [CovePin-up] Catwoman #57 variant cover. Art by Joshua Swaby. |
Other Posts
Top Comments
Awarded Posts
| score/comments | awards | title & link |
|---|---|---|
| 428 - 14 comments | 1 Silver | [Fan Creation] Captain America by me |
| 28 - 1 comments | 1 Silver | [News] The Cartoonist Cooperative is building a brave new world for comics |
Awarded Comments
| awards | score | comment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Starry | 56 | Particular-Gate-898 said Ryan north f4 is bumpin |
| 1 Gold | 298 | Garlador said My favorite thing about Kamala is just how full of life she is. |
2023.06.01 14:30 mofu_mofu No allergies on skin/blood tests, but multiple anaphylactic reactions and ongoing, strange allergy issues. Testing show normal mast cell markers. Beyond frustrated...does this sound like a possible mast cell disorder to you? Any advice/input appreciated!
Preface: first anaphylactic reaction in ~2017, ended up in ER wit face/throat swelling, severe diarrhea, full-body hives; all of this starting 4-5 hours after last meal. ER doctor assumed bc last meal contained shrimp that it must have been an allergic reaction to shrimp despite having had shellfish in my diet since young childhood (I'm Asian, some form of shellfish is in literally everything). A few months after, very very stupidly had some shrimp without any reaction - not even a mild one. Felt safe, so continued to have shrimp, shellfish, and other seafood without any issues afterwards until recently.
Medical history/issues: hypothyroidism, PCOS, migraines (no known cause, since high school). Dx'd ADHD and ASD, on medication (Vyvanse) for ADHD as well as Levo for hypothyroid. Caught COVID 3-4 times between 2019 to 2020 (sadly not joking), 3/4 times were confirmed via PCR or antigen testing, fourth suspected but not tested. Masked and was vaccinated & boosted but alas...the germ had gotten so brilliant (lol)
Bg info: Current diet is mostly comprised of meat (chicken > beef >>> pork), white rice, vegetables (peas, lettuce, cabbage, carrot, corn, soy sprout, spinach, bok choy, garlic). Seasonings are exclusively salt, sesame oil, and/or soy sauce - experimenting with miso paste at the moment as I've had intermittent issues with it. I don't use herbs or spices. I cook most meals from scratch and don't eat out. If I don't cook, my "cheat" foods are usually Lunchables Turkey & Cheddar (shoot me) or Special K + fairlife or soy milk. For the most part I have fairly bland taste, thankfully. I don't touch seafood period anymore.
Timeline:
Phew. Sorry for the insanely long post. I'm at my wits end. It's been coming on three years now that I've been trying to get to the bottom of this and my allergist seems to be at the end of her rope too which honestly scares me a bit.
I'll admit that I've been extremely stupid about my "allergy" in the past (obviously if you're allergic to a thing, don't eat the damn thing!!!) but knowing now that I apparently have no food allergies, I feel like an idiot for the trouble my family has gone to in avoiding shellfish for my sake (especially with how hard it is to do that with Asian food). My family won't even eat it outside by themselves because of how severe my reactions have been the past two years. It feels really bad to think that all this stress and caution could've been for nothing.
I also feel so confused, because if I have no food allergies...why on earth am I reacting to food? Why are my reactions to food so inconsistent??? I don't know of anybody with food allergies whose allergies come and go. When I read the description of mast cell disorders or histamine intolerance, they seem to line up more or less with my symptoms, but having the test results come back negative and having inconsistencies with the low histamine diet does make me pause.
If it weren't for the fact that my reactions result in physical symptoms that are externally observable (hoarse voice, hives, swelling, low BP on monitor, etc.) I'd think this was all in my head/anxiety/panic attacks at this point. With my blood work and skin test results, it scares me that my allergist may just leave it at IA which doesn't answer anything for me. The way she explained it is that there isn't any known trigger (hence the "idiopathic" bit) which is 1000000x worse to me than any allergy.
To my knowledge IA isn't "supposed" to be tied to food-related triggers but what worries me is that, increasingly, my reactions aren't food-tied. But it does give me a (messed up?) sense of hope that much of my reactions do seem to be related to food and specifically eating it, so it might just be an allergy to something I don't know yet (🤞)?
I'd appreciate your input at all. Thanks for reading this huge wall of text :")
submitted by mofu_mofu to MCAS [link] [comments]
Medical history/issues: hypothyroidism, PCOS, migraines (no known cause, since high school). Dx'd ADHD and ASD, on medication (Vyvanse) for ADHD as well as Levo for hypothyroid. Caught COVID 3-4 times between 2019 to 2020 (sadly not joking), 3/4 times were confirmed via PCR or antigen testing, fourth suspected but not tested. Masked and was vaccinated & boosted but alas...the germ had gotten so brilliant (lol)
Bg info: Current diet is mostly comprised of meat (chicken > beef >>> pork), white rice, vegetables (peas, lettuce, cabbage, carrot, corn, soy sprout, spinach, bok choy, garlic). Seasonings are exclusively salt, sesame oil, and/or soy sauce - experimenting with miso paste at the moment as I've had intermittent issues with it. I don't use herbs or spices. I cook most meals from scratch and don't eat out. If I don't cook, my "cheat" foods are usually Lunchables Turkey & Cheddar (shoot me) or Special K + fairlife or soy milk. For the most part I have fairly bland taste, thankfully. I don't touch seafood period anymore.
Timeline:
2020
- Officially began having chronic issues with allergies
Shellfish suddenly began giving issues (facial swelling, lip tingling, hives, GI symptoms) which was unusual, but given that I technically was supposed to have a "shellfish allergy" not shocking. PCP rightfully scolded me for continuing to eat a "known trigger" and explained how stupid that was, I quit eating shellfish and cut out possible cross-contamination.
- No issues yet with non-shellfish
2021
- Mystery, non-shellfish reactions begin
Begin reacting to non-shellfish foods that were previously safe. Oddly, these reactions are not consistent. One day I might fix a bowl of fresh strawberries as a treat and find that after eating just a couple, my torso is covered in hives but then the next week I'm fine. One day I could eat mushroom risotto safely, and the next I eat japchae that has mushroom in it and have hives and diarrhea. Sometimes I might even get a reaction just by sharing utensils/cups with someone who had eaten something. Ex: I was on a mini road trip with my brother who had eaten eel and drank from his straw, and to my surprise found myself itchy all over and suddenly having throat tightness/hoarseness...even though when I've eaten that same eel dish before, I've had no problems. Note that at this point I'm making all my meals at home from scratch and that my family is eating most of their meals at home as well, and that there is no shellfish at all at home (nor shellfish in cooking sauces, etc.)
- Start having odd non-food reactions as well
Sometimes find that, although this might just be a psychological reaction, just smells can set me off. When I go through the seafood section of Asian food markets, for instance, I sometimes get hives down my back and throat tightness. Strong spice smells sometimes set me off too. Being in the vicinity of dogs, even just being in the same waiting room sat quite far apart, makes me puff up/teary/sniffly/etc whereas prior it might have just made me a bit sneezy. The severity seems to really vary on the day and the dog(s).
2022
- Reactions ramp up in severity. Throughout 2022, I end up in the ER five times after using my epi pen, one of those times after having to use both of my epi pens. Up until 2021 I'd never even had to use my epi pen once
- Around early part of mid-2022, the allergist PCP referred me to finally has an opening. She suspects alpha-gal at first and does skin tests and bloodwork. Both show NO food allergies whatsoever and alpha-gal is ruled out. At this point she tells me she is considering possibly a mast cell disorder, immune disorder, or something called idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) and has me do a 24hr urine panel and wants to do a follow up to test for environmental allergies. We discuss my anaphylactic reactions and how to manage them safely and efficiently, with the caveat that she reminds me (wisely) that Benadryl doesn't stop anaphylaxis.
- Urine panel comes back within normal ranges. Unfortunately this allergist is pretty booked out so it takes literally months between appointments. For now she tells me to continue to avoid shellfish but that's about it.
- Over the rest of the year I tinker as reactions pop up (a LOT) and find that Benadryl works for anaphylactic reactions if I catch them early.
- I go on vacation with my family to Canada in Sept, where I have an anaphylactic reaction to a smoothie :))) Benadryl doesn't do anything here, unsure of if I missed the signs (I was way blindsided here). I end up in the ER and get gobsmacked by a 9k bill. This gets whittled down to 1k. Yay! After I get back to ✨the States✨ my doctor has me put on steroids and twice daily Zyrtec and Allegra until my next allergist appointment, which isn't until Feb 2023.
- As 2022 winds down, I'm getting proper scared to eat. I try keeping food logs, I try low-histamine diets and they seem to help but don't fully eliminate the symptoms.
2023
- Allergist has a situation that requires the appointment to be pushed to May. I'm still on the twice daily double dose of antihistamines, and still getting random hives and reactions to food that I shouldn't be having. I gave up on the low histamine diet around March but tried to keep note of the weirder reactions/patterns that I spotted.
- (May - we are here!) Finally got in. We discuss the food log which seems to be basically trash for all the good it does (as she puts it, there is no discernable pattern). She does follow-up testing for environmental allergies "just in case" and finds mild dust mite and dog allergies but only through blood work. Otherwise my blood work is, again, normal. Total IgE was at 162.0 IU/mL, with the standard range being 0.0 - 100.0 IU/mL. She put a note on my chart that said "Your tryptase level, inflammatory markers, complete blood count were all normal" and settled on a diagnosis of IA for now and suggested Xolair as a treatment plan, which I am now looking into. She also did offer to have me to set up an appointment for a food challenge for foods I felt unsafe trying by myself which I am planning on scheduling hopefully soon (if she has any openings) to try to fully rule out food allergies.
- happened just once but had leftover dakjuk (chicken porridge) with family which I normally don't do as I tend to skip leftovers and my face swelled up. The rest of family was totally fine though
- I tend to have more reactions in general on my period, and they tend to be worse
- reactions usually are related to eating food but not always? (smells are another consistent odd trigger)
- often have issues with heat, though that can also be a sensory issue for people on the spectrum so idk
- after hot showers often get tingling/prickling/itching all over and very flushed feeling in the face and ears regardless of where I shower (even in other people's showers, hard/soft water, whatever soap I use, etc). idk if this is normal? not as bad with lukewarm or cold water
- had a very bad reaction (was one of the times in 2022 that landed me in the ER) after spending a very long, hot, stressful day at the zoo which is one of the rare outliers in terms of anaphylaxis that had no ties to food triggers. Still not sure what triggered me here and neither is my allergist. The heat? The smells? An animal? Walking uphill for hours? The stress? A combo of the above??? Haven't noticed any similar reactions after working out so fingers crossed that was a fluke
- General fatigue, I get about 6ish hours of sleep at minimum but usually still feel quite tired. If I let myself sleep "to maximum" (+10hrs on days off) I still feel wiped and tbqh I have no good reason to
- Hives (most often on my face, and then my back for whatever reason - my first thought was an allergic reaction to soap or detergent or sheets but changing these hasn't helped and it's been consistent across moves and while staying over at friends' places. occasionally spreads through rest of torso. I've almost never seen them on extremities, and only a couple times seen them on my thighs when coming home after being out in negative temps in the winter)
- Itchiness
- Rashes
- "Tingling"/shivering/shaking? Idk how to word this. This only happens during the severe reactions but it's uncontrollable and almost like when you're very, very cold. When it gets to this stage I usually am having trouble breathing and need my epi pen
- Swelling (again most often on my head area - if not my face, it's my throat...rip)
- Random nausea, doesn't seem to be tied to being on my period or eating/not eating food
- (moreso in the past year) often feeling oddly weak, particularly in my extremities. Hard to describe but it's like the feeling the day after you've had an insane workout except I haven't had the workout. On bad days I have trouble doing stuff like showering because I can't hold "heavier" things like the soap well, for instance, or I find my (13lb) cat too heavy to lift. But most days I'm fine. It just worries me that there are even days that bad :(
- migraines (unsure of if this is related to the "IA" or not, as this has been a thing since high school)
- Fresh strawberries (which I've eaten a gazillion times and been fine, but have read are high in histamine so try to avoid...sadly these were a favorite treat of mine 😭)
- Fresh grapes (another favorite treat, and one that confuses me as I've read they're actually supposed to be low in histamine???)
- Fresh watermelon (another another favorite treat...I fkn love fruit gd. Anyways this is one that I've seen conflicting info about, but isn't supposed to be particularly bad? At worst it's been labeled a histamine liberator, and the day I reacted when I ate it I hadn't eaten any high histamine foods)
- Seafood/shellfish
- Some fruit juice (can't remember what it was, but I think it was a citrus juice blend? Either way it was fine one time I tried it and not fine the next time, so I never tried it again)
- Fresh cherries (again another treat which I loved loved loved. This one consistently kept setting me off so I had to cut it out. They're supposed to be safe I think? But sources seem conflicting)
- Chocolate (seems to vary, but I don't eat much choco anyways so I don't get to test it out often)
- Energy drinks (I only drink Zero Ultra fwiw and at most a can a day. I do notice that sometimes on days I have a can, that it does set me off. Other days it seems to be fine, and then other days still it just seems to lower the threshold so to speak? Dunno if there's much basis for that scientifically but that's how it feels)
- Tomatoes (sometimes causes weird tingling in the lips/tongue)
- Seaweed (sadly...doesn't seem to matter the sort, whether it's used in soup or eaten plain with rice, etc. It all sets me off)
I'll admit that I've been extremely stupid about my "allergy" in the past (obviously if you're allergic to a thing, don't eat the damn thing!!!) but knowing now that I apparently have no food allergies, I feel like an idiot for the trouble my family has gone to in avoiding shellfish for my sake (especially with how hard it is to do that with Asian food). My family won't even eat it outside by themselves because of how severe my reactions have been the past two years. It feels really bad to think that all this stress and caution could've been for nothing.
I also feel so confused, because if I have no food allergies...why on earth am I reacting to food? Why are my reactions to food so inconsistent??? I don't know of anybody with food allergies whose allergies come and go. When I read the description of mast cell disorders or histamine intolerance, they seem to line up more or less with my symptoms, but having the test results come back negative and having inconsistencies with the low histamine diet does make me pause.
If it weren't for the fact that my reactions result in physical symptoms that are externally observable (hoarse voice, hives, swelling, low BP on monitor, etc.) I'd think this was all in my head/anxiety/panic attacks at this point. With my blood work and skin test results, it scares me that my allergist may just leave it at IA which doesn't answer anything for me. The way she explained it is that there isn't any known trigger (hence the "idiopathic" bit) which is 1000000x worse to me than any allergy.
To my knowledge IA isn't "supposed" to be tied to food-related triggers but what worries me is that, increasingly, my reactions aren't food-tied. But it does give me a (messed up?) sense of hope that much of my reactions do seem to be related to food and specifically eating it, so it might just be an allergy to something I don't know yet (🤞)?
I'd appreciate your input at all. Thanks for reading this huge wall of text :")
2023.06.01 14:15 Aeogeus The Heart of Zeforo: Chapter 23
First Chapter/Previous Chapter
Keoki and Eik pulled on the wire as the container was hauled high into the air. Even with the significantly reduced gravity and the block and tackle taking most of the weight, it took considerable elbow grease to get it in position.
He rubbed his eyes and tried to ignore the smell of rotting flesh. He glanced over at his handy work and immediately had to look away. It had been his idea, and when Keoki had begun constructing it, he had believed he would never get off this ship.
Keoki had been so angry when he had done it, but now that the uren were beaten, he could feel a nagging guilt begin to stir in him. Keoki buried it; there would be time for self-reflection later; right now, there was some stuck-up, fat bastard wanting to make his friends into pets, or worse.
Melia, Polumnus and Qerik arrived shortly after they began to haul another container.
“We’ve got to be ready soon. This will probably be the last cargo fall we can prepare,” Keoki explained as his muscles ached under the strain.
“Where are they?” Melia asked.
“Just two doors away. And from what Ha said, they’re almost through the first one, so I told them to regroup with us; they should be here shortly,” Keoki replied as he and Eik tied off the nanotube wire, and they leapt to the ground.
“I would love to see you people in your natural habitat,” Qerik said, astounded by the height Keoki had fallen without injury.
“It wouldn’t be all that impressive unless you were watching the Olympics. Those people can really move,” Keoki said.
“How many traps could you set up?” Melia asked; this was no time for distraction.
“Seven container falls; we’ve also littered spots with shrapnel; probably won’t get through a good boot, but you know every little helps,” Keoki answered.
“We’ve also set up some barricades to funnel them where we want them to go, we tried to make them look as natural as possible, but time constraints and all that,” Keoki added.
“You did well, but I’ve been discussing it with Polumnus and Qerik, and we cannot attack immediately,” Melia explained.
“Why not?” Keoki said, his eyes fixed squarely on Melia, his heart rate increasing and his knees bent slightly, ready to move the instant his fears came to light.
Polumnus noticed the shift in posture and said, “we’re not selling you out; it’s just with this being a politician of a foreign power, we needed to offer them a chance to leave without a fight, something that will hold up in an inquiry or a trial.
Keoki relaxed, though not entirely. He did not fully trust the vo’rul and was conscious that simply giving up him and the obed would be the fastest way to ensure their own safety. He had not been too worried about the uren, they had shot Tres, and he had counted on anger and the desire for revenge to protect him.
After a brief pause, Keoki said, “I see; I believe it would be best if I am the one who talks with them.”
“Absolutely not, you are a civilian, and we will not risk your life like that,” Melia replied instantly, and her tone brooked no argument.
Keoki was human, however, and the tone did not translate along with her words.
“The Senator appears to be a collector of sorts, as far as we can tell. Whether he has deviant tastes or just likes owning stuff, we cannot say, but if I show up, an utterly unknown alien, then he is far more likely to issue a no-fire order,” Keoki explained.
Melia was about to argue; she could not deny that it made a lot of sense. Even so, Melia was unwilling to let it happen.
“No, Keoki, we will handle it; you are not trained in negotiations; I am,” Melia stated.
“You’re trained in negotiations?” Keoki asked.
“It was part of my officer training, yes,” Melia explained.
“Fine, you’re the professional,” Keoki conceded, though he had doubts she could reason with them.
“Just be ready to spring the trap,” Melia said, approaching the door.
“Just don’t stand underneath the containers when they fall,” Keoki replied.
Melia handed Keoki Tres’s side arm before asking, “do you know how to use this.”
"I know enough to shoot it,” Keoki answered, taking the weapon from her.
“Good enough. What about the obed? Can they use them?” Melia inquired.
“Yes, but not very well. They have to use both hands to operate them,” Keoki explained.
“Get ready!” Melia ordered as they heard the unmistakable sound of a welding torch behind the door and bolt cutters shearing through metal.
As Keoki sat beside Qerik in a hidden nook, he asked the vo’rul, “when Melia said she has training, what are we talking about? Master hostage negotiator or a three-hour slideshow seminar?”
Qerik did not reply immediately, and Keoki felt his heart sink.
“The latter,” Qerik answered.
“Oh, goody,” Keoki said, his voice monotone.
As the door opened, Melia said loudly and firmly, “Parley!”
Several of the Senator's troops pointed their weapons at her. It was an interesting thing to see. The Kireet had two sets of weapons; the first was a rifle, which they aimed by sitting down and aiming the gun with their hind limbs, now unburned by walking. It made the Kireet vulnerable, but their biology limited them; they could not stand upright.
The second was a pair of V.I.-assisted automatic weapons hanging from a harness, meaning the Kireet could lay down considerable firepower.
Luckily the Kireet had sat down before reaching the caltrops, they were well hidden in the gloom, and Melia tried to avoid looking at them, doing her best not to draw the Kireets’ attention.
“Captain Melia,” one of the Kireet said, lowering the weapons of their compatriots.
“Who are you?” Melia asked, her tone neutral, neither aggressive nor compassionate.
“I am Captain Utreka Nor Bar Ioban, of the Grestu Company,” the Kireet explained.
“You’re a mercenary,” Melia said.
“Partially true; I prefer private defence contractor,” Utreka replied.
Melia did not comment on that; call yourself whatever you wanted; a merc was still a merc.
“Well, Captain, could you please explain what you’re doing here after the Senator said you were leaving?” Melia asked.
“Let’s not dance around the trunk Melia; you know why we’re here, now give them to us, and you’ll get to see your home again,” Utreka explained, dropping the facade of civility.
Melia was not too surprised; the mercs were not being paid by the hour and were incentivised to get it done as quickly as possible.
“I have a counter offer surrender, face justice, give up your employer, and you’ll get out of this alive,” Melia stated.
Utreka spoke, and the Kireet raised their weapons. Keoki sighed; they needed to lure them into a trap, not have them fire on Melia immediately.
Keoki came out of hiding and shouted, “time out!” forming the letter T with his hands.
The Kireet paused what they were doing; they were so astounded at the sight of a new alien that they momentarily forgot themselves.
Utreka received a command from the Senator and asked, “who and what are you?”
“I am Keoki, and I am a human,” Keoki replied, looking at Melia. He could only imagine how upset she was with him, but he knew this was the best way to spring their trap.
Utreka got another command and asked Keoki, “what are you doing here?”
“There was an accident with my ship, and I was flung far off course,” Keoki replied, hoping the bastard in charge would get what he was saying and take the bait.
“Why aren’t you wearing a mask like the rest of us?” asked Utreka, instinctively checking his own to be sure it was fitted correctly.
“I am from a world called Earth; I believe you people would designate it a class J planet,” Keoki explained, taking in a lungful of air to emphasise the point.
The Kireet knew that the biohazard was genuine; they had checked it themselves. Another private conversation between the mercenary and the Senator occurred before Utreka said, “The Senator would love to meet with you, Keoki.”
“I’m sure he would,” Keoki said, tapping his head.
“I am inclined to accept the offer, but before I do, they’re something I want to show you all behind those containers,” Keoki added, pointing to the large stack of crates that concealed his macabre art piece.
To the Kireets’ credit, they did not fall for the obvious trap and held their position. As their attention was focused on Keoki, Melia swallowed her pride and slowly made her way to a dark corridor.
“We will have to decline, Keoki; please come with us,” Utreka stated.
Keoki just smiled and began to walk away slowly, his demeanour utterly at odds with the panic he felt.
The Kireet aimed their weapons at Keoki, and Utreka ordered him to stop, but Keoki ignored them.
However, the Gretsu Company did not fire, and Keoki did not doubt that The Senator was giving them orders not to hurt him.
Keoki supposed the Senator already imagined the fantastic enclosure he would build for him.
As he disappeared, Basof demanded that Utreka and his soldier follow after Keoki and bring him back.
Utreka argued, but Basof just offered the man more money, and the mercenary Captian could not argue with that.
Utreka ordered his soldiers to advance with the three on point, backed up by the fourteen behind, with a further thirty in reserve waiting in the corridor.
They did not know how many vo’rul there were, and the human’s capabilities were unknown. So Utreka was playing this safe; he needed enough people to round up the choloshe; the Senator was willing to pay one hundred thousand Pitre for each one brought in alive.
Greed, as usual, got the better of common sense, and as the first three Kireet turned the corner, they froze in their tracks.
“Why are you just standing there?” asked Utreka.
He received no reply.
“Turick, I asked you a question!” Utreka shouted.
Again he received no reply.
Utreka tried to get an answer five more times, but when one of his troops collapsed, Utreka decided that whatever it was, he needed to see it for himself.
In an instant, Utreka understood. The Grestu Company were not good people, and Utreka had ordered more than a few war crimes in his time, but this! This was on a whole other level.
The Zeforo’s crew had never been a concern for them. The uren were just nobodies; their testimony could be easily swept under the rug. Not that Utreka would have spared them, he had a good deal going with the Senator and would not risk for a bunch of smugglers. Utreka would not seek them out, however.
He realised that would not be necessary; the uren were displayed in a grizzly display, broken, eviscerated, flayed and a dozen other synonyms for mutilated.
Sat underneath them, their teeth displayed in a way that could only be described as deranged, was Keoki.
“Do you like my work, mercenary?” Keoki asked.
“Go!” Keoki commanded.
Utreka was inclined to obey; the Senator paid well but not enough to deal with this.
“Bring me that alien, Captain!” Basof ordered; he may have had to endure the delay in his choloshe, but this human was a fine bonus and more than made up for it.
“Grab him!” Utreka ordered.
“YA!” Keoki shouted, and every Kireet halted; they had no idea how such a small person could make a noise so loud.
The Kireet had just raised their weapons when two containers flattened three of them.
Those three Grestu company were probably the lucky ones; their deaths had been swift, almost instantaneous. As the vo’rul opened fire, a few more were brought down by shots to the arms and legs; one was struck in the head, while a second took three plasma rounds to the chests.
As the Kireet scattered for cover, they inevitably ran into the shrapnel, their boots protected them from most of the damage, but a few unlucky sods tripped and were perforated.
One Kireet took cover behind a container before hearing a noise to their right. She had just enough time to look and register a snarling face filled with sharp teeth before her neck snapped and her head torn from her body.
“Ho’opa’i,” Nor said as he retreated to the shadows, his old joints complaining.
Another container fell to the floor, this one did not injure anyone, but it did limit the Kireets’ movement.
Utreka might have been an honorless soldier, but he was not incompetent; he would not have been able to charge the high rates he did if that were the case. He ordered his mercs into a defensible position and signalled the reinforcements to begin flanking the enemy.
Moreover, the Kireet also noticed the other containers suspended in the air and began to shoot at them, bringing them down ahead of schedule and blowing a massive hole in Keoki’s plan.
Though one Kireet did not get an opportunity to celebrate as Keoki emerged from the dark, shot them in the head and retreated.
The tide was turning against the vo’rul, obed and Keoki. Qerik and Melia had both taken a few shots and were forced to fall back. Meanwhile, Keoki and the obed were unable to find any opening to pick off the Grestu.
“Keoki, we need to pull back,” Melia ordered.
“On it,” Keoki replied as he rounded up his friends and told them to retreat to a more defensible position.
As they retreated, they were peppered by fire, but none of them were hit.
“How are we doing?” Melia asked as they sealed the door to the cargo bay.
“Boh took a hit, but her crappy armour sucked up most of it, just a minor burn,” Keoki explained.
“We need a plan B, and we need it fast,” Qerik said, pulling a cabinet from an adjoining room and placing it up against the door. Not that it would do much, but as Keoki had said, "every little helps."
“We can do a fighting retreat, using the corridors as killing fields,” Polumnus suggested.
“Good enough; take positions at the end of the corridor and fire on my mark!” Melia ordered.
They stood there for four minutes without so much as a peep from the door ahead. At which point, Eik tapped Keoki's shoulder and said, “What about other doors?”
“Oh shit!” Keoki said as they were struck by laser fire from the right.
submitted by Aeogeus to HFY [link] [comments]
Keoki and Eik pulled on the wire as the container was hauled high into the air. Even with the significantly reduced gravity and the block and tackle taking most of the weight, it took considerable elbow grease to get it in position.
He rubbed his eyes and tried to ignore the smell of rotting flesh. He glanced over at his handy work and immediately had to look away. It had been his idea, and when Keoki had begun constructing it, he had believed he would never get off this ship.
Keoki had been so angry when he had done it, but now that the uren were beaten, he could feel a nagging guilt begin to stir in him. Keoki buried it; there would be time for self-reflection later; right now, there was some stuck-up, fat bastard wanting to make his friends into pets, or worse.
Melia, Polumnus and Qerik arrived shortly after they began to haul another container.
“We’ve got to be ready soon. This will probably be the last cargo fall we can prepare,” Keoki explained as his muscles ached under the strain.
“Where are they?” Melia asked.
“Just two doors away. And from what Ha said, they’re almost through the first one, so I told them to regroup with us; they should be here shortly,” Keoki replied as he and Eik tied off the nanotube wire, and they leapt to the ground.
“I would love to see you people in your natural habitat,” Qerik said, astounded by the height Keoki had fallen without injury.
“It wouldn’t be all that impressive unless you were watching the Olympics. Those people can really move,” Keoki said.
“How many traps could you set up?” Melia asked; this was no time for distraction.
“Seven container falls; we’ve also littered spots with shrapnel; probably won’t get through a good boot, but you know every little helps,” Keoki answered.
“We’ve also set up some barricades to funnel them where we want them to go, we tried to make them look as natural as possible, but time constraints and all that,” Keoki added.
“You did well, but I’ve been discussing it with Polumnus and Qerik, and we cannot attack immediately,” Melia explained.
“Why not?” Keoki said, his eyes fixed squarely on Melia, his heart rate increasing and his knees bent slightly, ready to move the instant his fears came to light.
Polumnus noticed the shift in posture and said, “we’re not selling you out; it’s just with this being a politician of a foreign power, we needed to offer them a chance to leave without a fight, something that will hold up in an inquiry or a trial.
Keoki relaxed, though not entirely. He did not fully trust the vo’rul and was conscious that simply giving up him and the obed would be the fastest way to ensure their own safety. He had not been too worried about the uren, they had shot Tres, and he had counted on anger and the desire for revenge to protect him.
After a brief pause, Keoki said, “I see; I believe it would be best if I am the one who talks with them.”
“Absolutely not, you are a civilian, and we will not risk your life like that,” Melia replied instantly, and her tone brooked no argument.
Keoki was human, however, and the tone did not translate along with her words.
“The Senator appears to be a collector of sorts, as far as we can tell. Whether he has deviant tastes or just likes owning stuff, we cannot say, but if I show up, an utterly unknown alien, then he is far more likely to issue a no-fire order,” Keoki explained.
Melia was about to argue; she could not deny that it made a lot of sense. Even so, Melia was unwilling to let it happen.
“No, Keoki, we will handle it; you are not trained in negotiations; I am,” Melia stated.
“You’re trained in negotiations?” Keoki asked.
“It was part of my officer training, yes,” Melia explained.
“Fine, you’re the professional,” Keoki conceded, though he had doubts she could reason with them.
“Just be ready to spring the trap,” Melia said, approaching the door.
“Just don’t stand underneath the containers when they fall,” Keoki replied.
Melia handed Keoki Tres’s side arm before asking, “do you know how to use this.”
"I know enough to shoot it,” Keoki answered, taking the weapon from her.
“Good enough. What about the obed? Can they use them?” Melia inquired.
“Yes, but not very well. They have to use both hands to operate them,” Keoki explained.
“Get ready!” Melia ordered as they heard the unmistakable sound of a welding torch behind the door and bolt cutters shearing through metal.
As Keoki sat beside Qerik in a hidden nook, he asked the vo’rul, “when Melia said she has training, what are we talking about? Master hostage negotiator or a three-hour slideshow seminar?”
Qerik did not reply immediately, and Keoki felt his heart sink.
“The latter,” Qerik answered.
“Oh, goody,” Keoki said, his voice monotone.
As the door opened, Melia said loudly and firmly, “Parley!”
Several of the Senator's troops pointed their weapons at her. It was an interesting thing to see. The Kireet had two sets of weapons; the first was a rifle, which they aimed by sitting down and aiming the gun with their hind limbs, now unburned by walking. It made the Kireet vulnerable, but their biology limited them; they could not stand upright.
The second was a pair of V.I.-assisted automatic weapons hanging from a harness, meaning the Kireet could lay down considerable firepower.
Luckily the Kireet had sat down before reaching the caltrops, they were well hidden in the gloom, and Melia tried to avoid looking at them, doing her best not to draw the Kireets’ attention.
“Captain Melia,” one of the Kireet said, lowering the weapons of their compatriots.
“Who are you?” Melia asked, her tone neutral, neither aggressive nor compassionate.
“I am Captain Utreka Nor Bar Ioban, of the Grestu Company,” the Kireet explained.
“You’re a mercenary,” Melia said.
“Partially true; I prefer private defence contractor,” Utreka replied.
Melia did not comment on that; call yourself whatever you wanted; a merc was still a merc.
“Well, Captain, could you please explain what you’re doing here after the Senator said you were leaving?” Melia asked.
“Let’s not dance around the trunk Melia; you know why we’re here, now give them to us, and you’ll get to see your home again,” Utreka explained, dropping the facade of civility.
Melia was not too surprised; the mercs were not being paid by the hour and were incentivised to get it done as quickly as possible.
“I have a counter offer surrender, face justice, give up your employer, and you’ll get out of this alive,” Melia stated.
Utreka spoke, and the Kireet raised their weapons. Keoki sighed; they needed to lure them into a trap, not have them fire on Melia immediately.
Keoki came out of hiding and shouted, “time out!” forming the letter T with his hands.
The Kireet paused what they were doing; they were so astounded at the sight of a new alien that they momentarily forgot themselves.
Utreka received a command from the Senator and asked, “who and what are you?”
“I am Keoki, and I am a human,” Keoki replied, looking at Melia. He could only imagine how upset she was with him, but he knew this was the best way to spring their trap.
Utreka got another command and asked Keoki, “what are you doing here?”
“There was an accident with my ship, and I was flung far off course,” Keoki replied, hoping the bastard in charge would get what he was saying and take the bait.
“Why aren’t you wearing a mask like the rest of us?” asked Utreka, instinctively checking his own to be sure it was fitted correctly.
“I am from a world called Earth; I believe you people would designate it a class J planet,” Keoki explained, taking in a lungful of air to emphasise the point.
The Kireet knew that the biohazard was genuine; they had checked it themselves. Another private conversation between the mercenary and the Senator occurred before Utreka said, “The Senator would love to meet with you, Keoki.”
“I’m sure he would,” Keoki said, tapping his head.
“I am inclined to accept the offer, but before I do, they’re something I want to show you all behind those containers,” Keoki added, pointing to the large stack of crates that concealed his macabre art piece.
To the Kireets’ credit, they did not fall for the obvious trap and held their position. As their attention was focused on Keoki, Melia swallowed her pride and slowly made her way to a dark corridor.
“We will have to decline, Keoki; please come with us,” Utreka stated.
Keoki just smiled and began to walk away slowly, his demeanour utterly at odds with the panic he felt.
The Kireet aimed their weapons at Keoki, and Utreka ordered him to stop, but Keoki ignored them.
However, the Gretsu Company did not fire, and Keoki did not doubt that The Senator was giving them orders not to hurt him.
Keoki supposed the Senator already imagined the fantastic enclosure he would build for him.
As he disappeared, Basof demanded that Utreka and his soldier follow after Keoki and bring him back.
Utreka argued, but Basof just offered the man more money, and the mercenary Captian could not argue with that.
Utreka ordered his soldiers to advance with the three on point, backed up by the fourteen behind, with a further thirty in reserve waiting in the corridor.
They did not know how many vo’rul there were, and the human’s capabilities were unknown. So Utreka was playing this safe; he needed enough people to round up the choloshe; the Senator was willing to pay one hundred thousand Pitre for each one brought in alive.
Greed, as usual, got the better of common sense, and as the first three Kireet turned the corner, they froze in their tracks.
“Why are you just standing there?” asked Utreka.
He received no reply.
“Turick, I asked you a question!” Utreka shouted.
Again he received no reply.
Utreka tried to get an answer five more times, but when one of his troops collapsed, Utreka decided that whatever it was, he needed to see it for himself.
In an instant, Utreka understood. The Grestu Company were not good people, and Utreka had ordered more than a few war crimes in his time, but this! This was on a whole other level.
The Zeforo’s crew had never been a concern for them. The uren were just nobodies; their testimony could be easily swept under the rug. Not that Utreka would have spared them, he had a good deal going with the Senator and would not risk for a bunch of smugglers. Utreka would not seek them out, however.
He realised that would not be necessary; the uren were displayed in a grizzly display, broken, eviscerated, flayed and a dozen other synonyms for mutilated.
Sat underneath them, their teeth displayed in a way that could only be described as deranged, was Keoki.
“Do you like my work, mercenary?” Keoki asked.
“Go!” Keoki commanded.
Utreka was inclined to obey; the Senator paid well but not enough to deal with this.
“Bring me that alien, Captain!” Basof ordered; he may have had to endure the delay in his choloshe, but this human was a fine bonus and more than made up for it.
“Grab him!” Utreka ordered.
“YA!” Keoki shouted, and every Kireet halted; they had no idea how such a small person could make a noise so loud.
The Kireet had just raised their weapons when two containers flattened three of them.
Those three Grestu company were probably the lucky ones; their deaths had been swift, almost instantaneous. As the vo’rul opened fire, a few more were brought down by shots to the arms and legs; one was struck in the head, while a second took three plasma rounds to the chests.
As the Kireet scattered for cover, they inevitably ran into the shrapnel, their boots protected them from most of the damage, but a few unlucky sods tripped and were perforated.
One Kireet took cover behind a container before hearing a noise to their right. She had just enough time to look and register a snarling face filled with sharp teeth before her neck snapped and her head torn from her body.
“Ho’opa’i,” Nor said as he retreated to the shadows, his old joints complaining.
Another container fell to the floor, this one did not injure anyone, but it did limit the Kireets’ movement.
Utreka might have been an honorless soldier, but he was not incompetent; he would not have been able to charge the high rates he did if that were the case. He ordered his mercs into a defensible position and signalled the reinforcements to begin flanking the enemy.
Moreover, the Kireet also noticed the other containers suspended in the air and began to shoot at them, bringing them down ahead of schedule and blowing a massive hole in Keoki’s plan.
Though one Kireet did not get an opportunity to celebrate as Keoki emerged from the dark, shot them in the head and retreated.
The tide was turning against the vo’rul, obed and Keoki. Qerik and Melia had both taken a few shots and were forced to fall back. Meanwhile, Keoki and the obed were unable to find any opening to pick off the Grestu.
“Keoki, we need to pull back,” Melia ordered.
“On it,” Keoki replied as he rounded up his friends and told them to retreat to a more defensible position.
As they retreated, they were peppered by fire, but none of them were hit.
“How are we doing?” Melia asked as they sealed the door to the cargo bay.
“Boh took a hit, but her crappy armour sucked up most of it, just a minor burn,” Keoki explained.
“We need a plan B, and we need it fast,” Qerik said, pulling a cabinet from an adjoining room and placing it up against the door. Not that it would do much, but as Keoki had said, "every little helps."
“We can do a fighting retreat, using the corridors as killing fields,” Polumnus suggested.
“Good enough; take positions at the end of the corridor and fire on my mark!” Melia ordered.
They stood there for four minutes without so much as a peep from the door ahead. At which point, Eik tapped Keoki's shoulder and said, “What about other doors?”
“Oh shit!” Keoki said as they were struck by laser fire from the right.
2023.06.01 13:51 Varnse Team advice?
Currently building a team of UFU.
Right now I have Cere (leader) , Cal Kestis , og Kylo Ren , Visas Marr , & stick Rey.
I plan to swap out stick Rey with Jedi-Training Rey.
Any experienced players got any idea how this would likely fare? I’m pretty new and still learning stuff. On paper it looks like Jedi-Training Rey would still hit pretty hard while providing more help to the team.
Currently rank 378 in squad arena. Just turned level 85 so I haven’t gotten around to the other content yet.
submitted by Varnse to SWGalaxyOfHeroes [link] [comments]
Right now I have Cere (leader) , Cal Kestis , og Kylo Ren , Visas Marr , & stick Rey.
I plan to swap out stick Rey with Jedi-Training Rey.
Any experienced players got any idea how this would likely fare? I’m pretty new and still learning stuff. On paper it looks like Jedi-Training Rey would still hit pretty hard while providing more help to the team.
Currently rank 378 in squad arena. Just turned level 85 so I haven’t gotten around to the other content yet.
2023.06.01 13:10 WINGSandRINGSmedia Hey there, Redditors!
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submitted by WINGSandRINGSmedia to u/WINGSandRINGSmedia [link] [comments]
In today's fast-paced digital world, mobile journalism has become a game-changer, revolutionizing the way news is gathered, reported, and shared. With just a smartphone in hand, anyone can capture compelling footage, conduct interviews, and produce professional-quality content, breaking down barriers to entry and enabling citizen journalists to make their voices heard.
At Wings & Rings Media, we believe that everyone has a story worth sharing, and mobile journalism is the gateway to unleashing your creativity and reaching a global audience. Our team of experienced professionals, passionate about the power of mobile journalism, is here to guide you on this transformative journey.
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2023.06.01 12:21 Cherokee1217 I think I walked the Astral accidentally 😭
I don't do dreamwork , because it scares the shit out of me . That doesn't mean I won't accidentally do it from time to time . As a generational witch , my mother can travel effortlessly . She gets visits from all kinds of things - including passed on family members . In my experience , all I get is terrifying tests that I don't know the point of .
In the dream , I was not sure where I was , but I was in a bed in a bland room . It was nighttime , and I had a faint glow of , I think , a TV for a bit of light .
On the wall in front of me right next to the door were my porcelain dolls looking in my direction . Just the two - the blonde fairy & the little Native girl . Things I've had since birth & haven't pulled out of the closet since for obvious reasons .
They were both looking in my direction propped against the wall . And every few minutes , they would tilt their heads making a point to scare me .
I got a little bit of understanding that there was more than a few spirits testing me , I couldn't see anything except the dolls - like the little girl wanted to play , but the older man wanted to terrify me . He would make noises that I hated . I think the little girl was trying to talk .
I got pissed off when they wouldn't stop doing it when I asked . So I said , "no" in an angry voice , got up from the bed , picked them up by their hair , and shook them (I don't know if I actually did shake them , it felt like I tried to for sure) , and took them outside of the room to what appeared for a split second to be my mother sitting in a recliner in an older place we used to live in my preteens with the same gaudy Ronald McDonald's hair kind of carpet .
I looked her straight in the eyes to find that it was also another spirit/ghost . I think it may have been blind-sided when I hollered at it , angry saying , " they're in here making noise , it's driving me crazy . I picked them up & shook them ."
And when I said this , I looked it straight in the eyes , and it's mask fell apart . I saw its eyes . They were blue (like my mother's) & soulless like deep pits . It said , "okay," like my mother would , but there was no real reaction . I woke up after that . I was forcing my body awake , because 1.) I wasn't about to take this abuse from ghosts , and 2.) I wasn't about to have my feelings invalidated by one pretending to be my mother
My body is still slightly shaking .
submitted by Cherokee1217 to Astral_Projection [link] [comments]
In the dream , I was not sure where I was , but I was in a bed in a bland room . It was nighttime , and I had a faint glow of , I think , a TV for a bit of light .
On the wall in front of me right next to the door were my porcelain dolls looking in my direction . Just the two - the blonde fairy & the little Native girl . Things I've had since birth & haven't pulled out of the closet since for obvious reasons .
They were both looking in my direction propped against the wall . And every few minutes , they would tilt their heads making a point to scare me .
I got a little bit of understanding that there was more than a few spirits testing me , I couldn't see anything except the dolls - like the little girl wanted to play , but the older man wanted to terrify me . He would make noises that I hated . I think the little girl was trying to talk .
I got pissed off when they wouldn't stop doing it when I asked . So I said , "no" in an angry voice , got up from the bed , picked them up by their hair , and shook them (I don't know if I actually did shake them , it felt like I tried to for sure) , and took them outside of the room to what appeared for a split second to be my mother sitting in a recliner in an older place we used to live in my preteens with the same gaudy Ronald McDonald's hair kind of carpet .
I looked her straight in the eyes to find that it was also another spirit/ghost . I think it may have been blind-sided when I hollered at it , angry saying , " they're in here making noise , it's driving me crazy . I picked them up & shook them ."
And when I said this , I looked it straight in the eyes , and it's mask fell apart . I saw its eyes . They were blue (like my mother's) & soulless like deep pits . It said , "okay," like my mother would , but there was no real reaction . I woke up after that . I was forcing my body awake , because 1.) I wasn't about to take this abuse from ghosts , and 2.) I wasn't about to have my feelings invalidated by one pretending to be my mother
My body is still slightly shaking .
2023.06.01 12:17 Cherokee1217 I think I walked the Astral accidentally 😭
I don't do dreamwork , because it scares the shit out of me . That doesn't mean I won't accidentally do it from time to time . As a generational witch , my mother can travel effortlessly . She gets visits from all kinds of things - including passed on family members . In my experience , all I get is terrifying tests that I don't know the point of .
In the dream , I was not sure where I was , but I was in a bed in a bland room . It was nighttime , and I had a faint glow of , I think , a TV for a bit of light .
On the wall in front of me right next to the door were my porcelain dolls looking in my direction . Just the two - the blonde fairy & the little Native girl . Things I've had since birth & haven't pulled out of the closet since for obvious reasons .
They were both looking in my direction propped against the wall . And every few minutes , they would tilt their heads making a point to scare me .
I got a little bit of understanding that there was more than a few spirits testing me , I couldn't see anything except the dolls - like the little girl wanted to play , but the older man wanted to terrify me . He would make noises that I hated . I think the little girl was trying to talk .
I got pissed off when they wouldn't stop doing it when I asked . So I said , "no" in an angry voice , got up from the bed , picked them up by their hair , and shook them (I don't know if I actually did shake them , it felt like I tried to for sure) , and took them outside of the room to what appeared for a split second to be my mother sitting in a recliner in an older place we used to live in my preteens with the same gaudy Ronald McDonald's hair kind of carpet .
I looked her straight in the eyes to find that it was also another spirit/ghost . I think it may have been blind-sided when I hollered at it , angry saying , " they're in here making noise , it's driving me crazy . I picked them up & shook them ."
And when I said this , I looked it straight in the eyes , and it's mask fell apart . I saw its eyes . They were blue (like my mother's) & soulless like deep pits . It said , "okay," like my mother would , but there was no real reaction . I woke up after that . I was forcing my body awake , because 1.) I wasn't about to take this abuse from ghosts , and 2.) I wasn't about to have my feelings invalidated by one pretending to be my mother
My body is still slightly shaking .
submitted by Cherokee1217 to u/Cherokee1217 [link] [comments]
In the dream , I was not sure where I was , but I was in a bed in a bland room . It was nighttime , and I had a faint glow of , I think , a TV for a bit of light .
On the wall in front of me right next to the door were my porcelain dolls looking in my direction . Just the two - the blonde fairy & the little Native girl . Things I've had since birth & haven't pulled out of the closet since for obvious reasons .
They were both looking in my direction propped against the wall . And every few minutes , they would tilt their heads making a point to scare me .
I got a little bit of understanding that there was more than a few spirits testing me , I couldn't see anything except the dolls - like the little girl wanted to play , but the older man wanted to terrify me . He would make noises that I hated . I think the little girl was trying to talk .
I got pissed off when they wouldn't stop doing it when I asked . So I said , "no" in an angry voice , got up from the bed , picked them up by their hair , and shook them (I don't know if I actually did shake them , it felt like I tried to for sure) , and took them outside of the room to what appeared for a split second to be my mother sitting in a recliner in an older place we used to live in my preteens with the same gaudy Ronald McDonald's hair kind of carpet .
I looked her straight in the eyes to find that it was also another spirit/ghost . I think it may have been blind-sided when I hollered at it , angry saying , " they're in here making noise , it's driving me crazy . I picked them up & shook them ."
And when I said this , I looked it straight in the eyes , and it's mask fell apart . I saw its eyes . They were blue (like my mother's) & soulless like deep pits . It said , "okay," like my mother would , but there was no real reaction . I woke up after that . I was forcing my body awake , because 1.) I wasn't about to take this abuse from ghosts , and 2.) I wasn't about to have my feelings invalidated by one pretending to be my mother
My body is still slightly shaking .
2023.06.01 11:56 Anvis_Infinity [In progress] [1,496][Sci-FI] The Verses (title) Please tell me you thoughts
California state prison
Life is truly unpredictable. We all once dreamed of becoming doctors or lawyers, shaping our futures with optimism. But here I am, confined within these prison walls—a reality I never fathomed. Yet, in this desolate place, it seems that no one truly cares. Two months have passed since I arrived, and each day is an arduous struggle for survival, a constant battle against the law of the jungle in its most modern form. Every passing day feels like a never-ending nightmare, gradually consuming my sanity. I can feel myself descending into madness, constantly on edge, my fight-or-flight instinct perpetually activated. There is no respite, not even in the darkness of night. The air is thick with the echoes of tormented screams that haunt our sleep, ensuring that even our dreams are tainted with despair. It’s bewildering how this place not only confines the body but also imprisons the mind. Amidst this bleak existence, I find solace in the intimidating visage I possess and the imposing physique I bear. It sets me apart from those who have succumbed to the depths of this grim abyss, their bodies now six feet under the ground. However, my physique alone could only provide limited protection. It is my own foolish mistakes that may ultimately lead to my demise, or rather, will lead to my death. I have already committed my first error by offending a notorious gang leader. I wish it were a grave offense like taking the life of one of his subordinates, but instead, it was something as trivial as sitting at the wrong table in the canteen. And now, he seeks to end my life. My cellmate warned me of the bounty placed on my head, a sick game concocted by that bastard to torment me. As the cell door buzzed open, its mechanical groan reverberated through the air, signaling the dreaded lunchtime. A chill slithered down my spine, mingling with the sickening anticipation of what awaited me beyond those iron bars. I knew all too well that this time, caution was not merely a choice but a matter of life and death. Every step I took outside, I was acutely aware of the lurking shadows, the hidden dangers ready to strike. The guard’s barked command sliced through the air like a serrated blade, slicing away any semblance of safety or comfort. His voice dripped with sadistic pleasure as he herded us, defenseless prisoners, towards the canteen, a place where pain and violence lurked like ravenous beasts. My heart hammered in my chest, a rapid percussion of fear, as I analyzed my surroundings with feral instinct. I scoured every corner for hidden threats, my eyes darting from one shadow to another, assessing blind spots like a hunted animal on the verge of its last stand. In that moment, an opportunity, as precarious as a spider’s silk, presented itself. The guard, his malevolence etched deep into his sneering face, loomed close to me. I weighed my options, knowing that the wrong move would condemn me to a merciless demise. The specter of death whispered in my ear, urging me to fight back, to strike first and defy the shackles of my oppressors. Without a flicker of hesitation, my hand shot out, the palm of my trembling hand connecting with the guard’s face in a resounding slap that echoed through the corridor. His expression twisted into a grotesque mask of rage, a harbinger of the storm that was about to be unleashed upon me. “You fucker! Come here!” his voice boomed, a thunderous growl that reverberated in the depths of my soul. He charged towards me, wielding his formidable bat with a sadistic gleam in his eyes, as if relishing the opportunity to unleash his cruelty upon my defenseless body. Driven by desperation, I fought back, fueled by the primal instinct to survive at any cost. Blow after blow, I struck with a ferocity borne from a place deep within me, each slap a desperate plea for freedom. But my resistance was futile, a fleeting flicker of defiance in the face of an unyielding storm. The guard’s retaliatory onslaught descended upon me like a torrential downpour of unrelenting agony. His weapon became an extension of his twisted will, delivering bone-shattering blows that fractured my body and shattered my spirit. The searing pain tore through every fiber of my being, eclipsing any physical torment I had endured before. It surpassed the brutality inflicted by my own father, a testament to the depths of human cruelty. Mocking laughter mingled with the sound of my screams, the guard’s sadistic delight intensifying with every strike. I writhed in excruciating pain, my body a mere vessel of suffering, on the precipice of vomiting up the wretched food that had been forced upon me. Each kick landed with merciless precision, a merciless reminder of my insignificance, reducing me to a broken, battered shell of a human being. Finally, my ravaged form was dragged away, cast into the suffocating darkness of solitary confinement. The door closed behind me, sealing my fate within these desolate walls. As the agonizing throbs of pain merged with the suffocating isolation, a twisted symphony of despair played on, etching its haunting melody into the deepest recesses of my mind. Finally, I had survived, but at what cost? A bitter reflection consumed me as I surveyed my new home. “Hey, kid,” a weathered voice suddenly pierced the suffocating silence. The timbre of his voice revealed a man well into his sixties or beyond. Straining to locate the source, I realized it originated from the cell adjacent to mine. Surprised and puzzled, I questioned how I could hear him. Shouldn’t I be in complete isolation? “Kid, I know you can hear me,” he confidently declared, as if he held a secret knowledge. Uncertainty gripped me, leaving me unsure of how to respond or what actions to take in this confined world. To hell with it, I thought. I was already in isolation, so why not engage in conversation? I needed someone to talk to, to maintain a sliver of sanity amidst the suffocating solitude. Even though I believed I wouldn’t lose my grip on reality, I knew that prolonged isolation could weaken even the strongest of minds. So, with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension, I mustered the courage to respond, “Yeah, I can hear you, old man. What do you want?” Yet, a nagging question lingered in the back of my mind. How was it even possible for the old man to communicate with me in this isolated prison? “Nothing. I don’t need anything. I just want to talk. Is that a problem?” the old man’s voice carried a hint of loneliness, longing for connection. “No, not at all,” I replied, my curiosity piqued by his request. “Well then, what’s your name, kid?” he inquired, his tone friendly. “I’m Anvis. And you?” I responded, eager to continue the conversation. “What a peculiar name. Well, I’ve heard stranger names in my lifetime. I’m Sam,” he revealed, his voice warm and inviting. “So, what landed you in this place?” he asked. “I was involved in the creation and sale of ghost weapons,” I confessed, a tinge of regret in my voice. “Ghost weapons… ah, yes, I’ve heard about them. You mean those 3D-printed guns? You must have had quite the knack for designing them,” Sam remarked, genuinely interested. “I suppose you could say that, though I never intended for things to turn out this way,” I explained, a mix of frustration and remorse seeping into my words. Sam’s voice filled with curiosity as he asked, “What do you mean?” “Let’s just say I was caught up in a difficult situation. Growing up as an orphan, I found myself entangled with the wrong crowd, doing whatever it took to survive. Unfortunately, that path led me to get involved in the production of ghost weapons. I had no choice, really. It was a matter of self-preservation,” I confessed, a hint of vulnerability in my voice. I don't know why, but confessing to Sam felt warm, like talking with a friend. Listening intently, Sam responded empathetically, “Sometimes life pushes us into corners we never anticipated. It’s not always easy to make the right choices when survival is at stake.” Encouraged by his understanding, I continued, “Exactly. I didn’t want any part in it, but circumstances forced my hand. I was coerced into designing those guns under the threat of exposure. However, fate had its own plans. When I went to deliver the weapons, the authorities swooped in, intercepting the guns before they could be used for harm. In a strange way, I felt a sense of relief that they didn’t end up causing any damage.” Sam nodded thoughtfully before sharing his own story, “Well, in my case, I had quite an extraordinary entrance into this prison. I fell through a portal and ended up here.” Oh great, I am talking to a lunatic.
submitted by Anvis_Infinity to BetaReaders [link] [comments]
Life is truly unpredictable. We all once dreamed of becoming doctors or lawyers, shaping our futures with optimism. But here I am, confined within these prison walls—a reality I never fathomed. Yet, in this desolate place, it seems that no one truly cares. Two months have passed since I arrived, and each day is an arduous struggle for survival, a constant battle against the law of the jungle in its most modern form. Every passing day feels like a never-ending nightmare, gradually consuming my sanity. I can feel myself descending into madness, constantly on edge, my fight-or-flight instinct perpetually activated. There is no respite, not even in the darkness of night. The air is thick with the echoes of tormented screams that haunt our sleep, ensuring that even our dreams are tainted with despair. It’s bewildering how this place not only confines the body but also imprisons the mind. Amidst this bleak existence, I find solace in the intimidating visage I possess and the imposing physique I bear. It sets me apart from those who have succumbed to the depths of this grim abyss, their bodies now six feet under the ground. However, my physique alone could only provide limited protection. It is my own foolish mistakes that may ultimately lead to my demise, or rather, will lead to my death. I have already committed my first error by offending a notorious gang leader. I wish it were a grave offense like taking the life of one of his subordinates, but instead, it was something as trivial as sitting at the wrong table in the canteen. And now, he seeks to end my life. My cellmate warned me of the bounty placed on my head, a sick game concocted by that bastard to torment me. As the cell door buzzed open, its mechanical groan reverberated through the air, signaling the dreaded lunchtime. A chill slithered down my spine, mingling with the sickening anticipation of what awaited me beyond those iron bars. I knew all too well that this time, caution was not merely a choice but a matter of life and death. Every step I took outside, I was acutely aware of the lurking shadows, the hidden dangers ready to strike. The guard’s barked command sliced through the air like a serrated blade, slicing away any semblance of safety or comfort. His voice dripped with sadistic pleasure as he herded us, defenseless prisoners, towards the canteen, a place where pain and violence lurked like ravenous beasts. My heart hammered in my chest, a rapid percussion of fear, as I analyzed my surroundings with feral instinct. I scoured every corner for hidden threats, my eyes darting from one shadow to another, assessing blind spots like a hunted animal on the verge of its last stand. In that moment, an opportunity, as precarious as a spider’s silk, presented itself. The guard, his malevolence etched deep into his sneering face, loomed close to me. I weighed my options, knowing that the wrong move would condemn me to a merciless demise. The specter of death whispered in my ear, urging me to fight back, to strike first and defy the shackles of my oppressors. Without a flicker of hesitation, my hand shot out, the palm of my trembling hand connecting with the guard’s face in a resounding slap that echoed through the corridor. His expression twisted into a grotesque mask of rage, a harbinger of the storm that was about to be unleashed upon me. “You fucker! Come here!” his voice boomed, a thunderous growl that reverberated in the depths of my soul. He charged towards me, wielding his formidable bat with a sadistic gleam in his eyes, as if relishing the opportunity to unleash his cruelty upon my defenseless body. Driven by desperation, I fought back, fueled by the primal instinct to survive at any cost. Blow after blow, I struck with a ferocity borne from a place deep within me, each slap a desperate plea for freedom. But my resistance was futile, a fleeting flicker of defiance in the face of an unyielding storm. The guard’s retaliatory onslaught descended upon me like a torrential downpour of unrelenting agony. His weapon became an extension of his twisted will, delivering bone-shattering blows that fractured my body and shattered my spirit. The searing pain tore through every fiber of my being, eclipsing any physical torment I had endured before. It surpassed the brutality inflicted by my own father, a testament to the depths of human cruelty. Mocking laughter mingled with the sound of my screams, the guard’s sadistic delight intensifying with every strike. I writhed in excruciating pain, my body a mere vessel of suffering, on the precipice of vomiting up the wretched food that had been forced upon me. Each kick landed with merciless precision, a merciless reminder of my insignificance, reducing me to a broken, battered shell of a human being. Finally, my ravaged form was dragged away, cast into the suffocating darkness of solitary confinement. The door closed behind me, sealing my fate within these desolate walls. As the agonizing throbs of pain merged with the suffocating isolation, a twisted symphony of despair played on, etching its haunting melody into the deepest recesses of my mind. Finally, I had survived, but at what cost? A bitter reflection consumed me as I surveyed my new home. “Hey, kid,” a weathered voice suddenly pierced the suffocating silence. The timbre of his voice revealed a man well into his sixties or beyond. Straining to locate the source, I realized it originated from the cell adjacent to mine. Surprised and puzzled, I questioned how I could hear him. Shouldn’t I be in complete isolation? “Kid, I know you can hear me,” he confidently declared, as if he held a secret knowledge. Uncertainty gripped me, leaving me unsure of how to respond or what actions to take in this confined world. To hell with it, I thought. I was already in isolation, so why not engage in conversation? I needed someone to talk to, to maintain a sliver of sanity amidst the suffocating solitude. Even though I believed I wouldn’t lose my grip on reality, I knew that prolonged isolation could weaken even the strongest of minds. So, with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension, I mustered the courage to respond, “Yeah, I can hear you, old man. What do you want?” Yet, a nagging question lingered in the back of my mind. How was it even possible for the old man to communicate with me in this isolated prison? “Nothing. I don’t need anything. I just want to talk. Is that a problem?” the old man’s voice carried a hint of loneliness, longing for connection. “No, not at all,” I replied, my curiosity piqued by his request. “Well then, what’s your name, kid?” he inquired, his tone friendly. “I’m Anvis. And you?” I responded, eager to continue the conversation. “What a peculiar name. Well, I’ve heard stranger names in my lifetime. I’m Sam,” he revealed, his voice warm and inviting. “So, what landed you in this place?” he asked. “I was involved in the creation and sale of ghost weapons,” I confessed, a tinge of regret in my voice. “Ghost weapons… ah, yes, I’ve heard about them. You mean those 3D-printed guns? You must have had quite the knack for designing them,” Sam remarked, genuinely interested. “I suppose you could say that, though I never intended for things to turn out this way,” I explained, a mix of frustration and remorse seeping into my words. Sam’s voice filled with curiosity as he asked, “What do you mean?” “Let’s just say I was caught up in a difficult situation. Growing up as an orphan, I found myself entangled with the wrong crowd, doing whatever it took to survive. Unfortunately, that path led me to get involved in the production of ghost weapons. I had no choice, really. It was a matter of self-preservation,” I confessed, a hint of vulnerability in my voice. I don't know why, but confessing to Sam felt warm, like talking with a friend. Listening intently, Sam responded empathetically, “Sometimes life pushes us into corners we never anticipated. It’s not always easy to make the right choices when survival is at stake.” Encouraged by his understanding, I continued, “Exactly. I didn’t want any part in it, but circumstances forced my hand. I was coerced into designing those guns under the threat of exposure. However, fate had its own plans. When I went to deliver the weapons, the authorities swooped in, intercepting the guns before they could be used for harm. In a strange way, I felt a sense of relief that they didn’t end up causing any damage.” Sam nodded thoughtfully before sharing his own story, “Well, in my case, I had quite an extraordinary entrance into this prison. I fell through a portal and ended up here.” Oh great, I am talking to a lunatic.
2023.06.01 11:28 TehANTARES Theory: Lightsaber guard is NOT meant to protect
Let's completely put aside the purpose of crossguards in medieval swords (to protect wielder's hands), because Star Wars operates under its own set of rules.
First, the crossguard construction of lightsabers we've seen so far leaves the blade emitter part exposed and easy to hit if the wielder focuses on defending against strikes using the crossguard (disregarding the magnetism theory as a way to repulse the strike).
Second, it has been established that two lightsaber blades are drawn to each other (said by Kanan Jarrus), possibly in a similar way as if those blades were made of magnets. Likely for this reason, we've not seen lightsaber blades sliding off each other (Kenobi vs Grievous being the only exception I am aware of). Therefore, there is no need to make a crossguard that would protect your hands in such cases, because the blade already prevents from that the way it works.
So, why are there crossguards if they're useless ?
I believe crossguards were intended to be used the way Kylo Ren used it when fighting Finn - to stab or inflict a wound to the enemy while the blades are in a bond. Although you cannot slide along the lightsaber blade with your own blade, it's theoretically more doable to tilt the sword around the point of the bond, meaning you can tilt your sword and attack the enemy with your crossguard while still being stuck in the bond.
The inspiration from medieval swords may imply the crossguard lightsaber is made for more stationary and defensive style, although the way of use I just described makes it suitable for more agile styles, such as Ataru.
submitted by TehANTARES to StarWarsCantina [link] [comments]
First, the crossguard construction of lightsabers we've seen so far leaves the blade emitter part exposed and easy to hit if the wielder focuses on defending against strikes using the crossguard (disregarding the magnetism theory as a way to repulse the strike).
Second, it has been established that two lightsaber blades are drawn to each other (said by Kanan Jarrus), possibly in a similar way as if those blades were made of magnets. Likely for this reason, we've not seen lightsaber blades sliding off each other (Kenobi vs Grievous being the only exception I am aware of). Therefore, there is no need to make a crossguard that would protect your hands in such cases, because the blade already prevents from that the way it works.
So, why are there crossguards if they're useless ?
I believe crossguards were intended to be used the way Kylo Ren used it when fighting Finn - to stab or inflict a wound to the enemy while the blades are in a bond. Although you cannot slide along the lightsaber blade with your own blade, it's theoretically more doable to tilt the sword around the point of the bond, meaning you can tilt your sword and attack the enemy with your crossguard while still being stuck in the bond.
The inspiration from medieval swords may imply the crossguard lightsaber is made for more stationary and defensive style, although the way of use I just described makes it suitable for more agile styles, such as Ataru.
2023.06.01 11:23 AlienNationSSB Alien-Nation Chapter 171: Shot Heard Across the Galaxy
All Chapters First Chapter of Alien-Nation Previous Chapter
Alien-Nation Discord
Buy A Coffee for the Author
Chapter Summary:
Shot Heard Across the Galaxy A poor Shil'vati patrol goes looking for that Security Force that just got blasted in the last chapter
First Contact: We jump POV, where Elias gives them "pretty much the exact terms" of their invasion and occupation, turning it back on them.
The summer had clung on by the tips of its fingernails despite the threatening change in season. The dry morning air heated quickly back to what Serenie had grown accustomed to, as if to deny the inevitable unwelcome encroachment of the biting cold night they'd just endured performing riot control in the center city.
Serenie learned some new insults over her comm as a pursuing Captain Goshen had watched the insurgent 'clear a building in a single bound like a retarded kangaroo with viagra in its tail.'" Serenie had never seen a kangaroo, but Earth's nature had fascinated her, and the loose familiarity caused her alone to laugh uproariously at the Captain’s breathless fury.
There were some other matters the Captain had muttered about, such as ‘lies turning truth’ that seemed to elude Serenie’s grasp. One thing that the Captain made certain Serenie did understand was the concept of punishment duty for her laughter. Double-shifts just seemed to be the order of the day, but being sent far afield with these people could hardly be called anything else. The scenery was occasionally something she’d have called nice, if it wasn’t for her present circumstance.
She was stuck with her new podmate, Zell, who it seemed just could not shut up.
"Look. All I'm saying is, they're hot. Hotter than the Security Forces 'squad' we're looking for. 'Squad.' Such a stupid-sounding word."
Serenie's expansive patrol pod had been shattered apart by casualties in the wake of Emperor's attack on Unification Square. The combat patrol had been dropped over twenty feet onto jagged concrete as the overpass they were sprinting across collapsed underneath them into rubble, courtesy of planted explosives. Serenie was one of the only ones to come out with relatively minor injuries and to make a full recovery. She'd even hobbled to the square on a broken leg, just in time to behold the horrific spectacle of the building’s collapse.
Now those cast off shards of incomplete pods had been shuffled and mixed up to serve with some temporarily deployed Shil'vati forces from out-of-state.
Two whole pods made up of the odd numbers from other units, sent to Delaware on punishment duty of their own came together to compose the new team of six out of the hodgepodge. Once Zell had used all her brain to do the math, she announced excitedly: ‘A grateful human boy for each of their rescuers.’
And so the two pods set off with initial enthusiasm, unburdened by much familiarity with one another. That had been three miles ago, and by now the excitement had given way to bitterness over how they were wasting time on a long walk across open, somewhat bleak bulldozed terrain that nature work crews had yet to reclaim, doing Search and Rescue for a bunch of deserters who didn't want to be found at all, instead of rounding up those 'mysterious hot insurgent guys.'
Serenie reflected that at least the razed structures and tall grasses offered a nice view of the vibrant colors the trees were starting to turn. A 'silver lining,' as the more optimistic locals liked to say. 'Well the square was utterly destroyed and you're led by an idiot from a green zone, but at least you're alive!'
The boys here were always upbeat. Then again, they were paid to take their clients' minds off their troubles. And she had to admit they worked better than the stupid Anarevoca. The deep rest in the arms of the man she'd visited while on mandatory medical and psychological leave had done more for her recovery and in then passing the evaluation than anything else she’d tried. She didn’t regret a moment or credit of the exchange, even if the bribes and fees to slip her out and get her the secret rendezvous did her accounts the same kind of damage as she herself had suffered.
She hoped Azraea hadn’t lowered the score just to get every soldier back on the front lines, and switched her line of thought. It did her no benefit to dwell on such things. ‘At least he let me sleep longer than I paid for’, she reflected, remembering the faintly sweet musk of where his shoulder met his neck, and how gently he’d run his fingernails along the back of her head, through her scalp until she fell asleep.
"The insurgents are not 'hot'," Serenie sputtered. "They're supposedly all too old, too set in their ways to adapt. You know, like, twice your age. You got a father-fucker fetish or something?" Serenie had already had more than an earful of this conversation, and repeating her rent-a-paramour’s comforting words buttressed her conviction. The honeyed sense of validation he’d whispered into her ears was better than dwelling on the possibility that the planet and all the men on it all just outright hated her.
"What, so you got your asses kicked by a bunch of daddies?" At Serenie's stare, her new podmate from New Jersey relented slightly. "Okay, fine. At least admit the idea of them is hot. So hot.” When Serenie didn’t bite, Zell kept going. “Come on- physically active, mysterious, and just need some love and affection before they realize we aren't so bad, and you win 'em over with -"
"-Yeah, alright, you find one, you try it, you tell me how it goes. If you survive and he’s somehow tolerating even someone like you, then I figure I can swipe him off you."
"Fuck no, we'll share, and you'll be grateful I'm so generous. Seriously, share the insurgency, I say. I can charm 'em so good we'll have peace within the day."
Serenie wondered how Zell had served this long and didn't realize human men tended to be fiercely monogamous. Maybe things were different where Zell served, though Serenie doubted it was.
"That's something I actually wanted to ask. I thought maybe you'd know." Serenie wasn’t sure why Zell might know anything, but it was at least in the area of Zell’s obvious obsessions. "How is 'fuck' an insult? Especially when the humans say words that mean 'fuck you,' but they use it as an insult. But even other forms of it mean ‘get fucked,’ or something."
"You sure it's an insult? Sounds like an invitation, if you ask me. Have you tried asking them ‘when’?"
Just one more addition to the ever-growing mountain of evidence that Zell was an idiot.
The new pod's equally new sergeant was little better, but at least when Sergeant Patmorica interrupted this time, it was focused on the mission. Her comm cut through the half-hearted banter as she made her periodic report at the required interval.
"Command, we've got eyes on a pretty good LZ on the crest of this hill, mark for exfiltration if necessary." Sergeant Patmorica pointed a gauntleted finger to the ridge on the far side of the field. Rote procedure; the last one she'd pointed to would be marked as a secondary. "Got a wide open view of that woods near where the patrol of Security Forces went missing- not seeing much out here in the field. Permission to move into the forest and check for them?"
Data Officer Borzun's voice floated back. "Granted. Relief forces will be en route if you find anything, ETA eleven minutes from Command."
The return signal sounded distant, quieter than normal. Something about that troubled her, but Serenie didn't want to draw the attention of a sergeant eager to prove she was capable of leading a couple pods, or feel she had to prove herself to the red zone veteran. Even more disturbing, Zell looked ready to start talking again.
"How are the other leads looking?" Serenie piped up quickly. At least the sergeant might offer something helpful, even if the information was secondhand.
"Not great. A lot of the people who are supposed to be patrolling looking for rebels are responding to the strikes and protests at the prisons, beating up protestors who weren't on any lists, trying to restore some semblance of order," Sergeant Patmorica responded with surprising candor.
"Be a real shame if no one's here. We could be out there helping," Zell picked up the line conversationally as they descended from the crest of the hill near the river, past an old sign that read 'Mister Pasta'. "Instead we're chasing down wayward Security Forces, who probably cut and ran."
"Best lead we've had so far," Patmorica responded.
"Have you heard anything about 'Camp Death'?"
"Just whispers. Nothing solid," Patmorica said, stepping over a half-buried old curb. The work here in leveling the town and returning it to nature had certainly been hurried and half-done. The ridge of the distant trees hadn't expanded outward much at all.
"Supposedly, it's somewhere in the North. We're in the North."
"What, you think Camp Death is actually in the middle of nowhere, somewhere out here? Come on, the town's leveled. There was a bomb that went off literally over there-" Serenie pointed across the rubble of the highway they were walking along. "-Some local shirtless kid pulled a Lieutenant out of the rubble."
"Doesn't seem to have been enough for them to consider saving the neighborhood. Not a chance it's out here; Work crews woulda spotted it."
"Guess the work crews finally got around to really taking the place apart before, you know, 'shit hit the fan.'
Human words were very evocative. Terrible situations lined with precious metals, feces being sprayed about by rapid physical impacts- the mental images they provided, disturbing though they often were, seemed silly enough to bring a smile that had been all too absent on the senior private's face ever since her time in Unification Square.
There used to be some roads here, but all that's been cut off. A bunch of trees, and no structures, no infrastructure, and a bunch of troops? That's just begging for an orbital strike."
"He might have the hostages there. Anywhere might."
The sergeant paused, contemplating something, then jumping into a private comm chat with Serenie, her voice coming through a bit more crisply. "Yeah, alright. Look, I read your file. You had your run-ins. You're still shaken, I understand that, but I need you to not jump at shadows, got that? You get to go on patrol with us, finding some lost boys who forgot how to read a map, and maybe lending your local expertise. But I have to weigh that against what you went through. The absolute last thing I need is you opening fire because one of the Security Forces guys sneezes, and it sets you off. Are we clear? Not everything's an insurgent. Not everything is done by insurgents."
"Ma'am," Serenie responded. "Understood. I'm cleared as ready for action." Idiot or not, Sergeant Patmorica was still her commanding officer for the time being, and she couldn't exactly relate her late night rendezvous in a red zone and say she was 'all better now.' Confessing such a violation was just begging to be written up.
"That's what I like to hear." Something about her answer or stature must have been conveyed while providing the words because they seemed to reassure Patmorica of her readiness. Serenie felt a ray of hope that she was really, well and truly had finally free from the aftereffects.
The rest of the walk along the treeline was blessedly quiet. Five minutes of peaceful walking. No idiots, no stupid orders, no more braggadocia. Even in full kit, Serenie enjoyed nature on earth in all its many mysterious and downright strange aspects. The morning chill felt crisp, and the crunch of dried parched dirt and grasses under her boots felt more alive than the steady beat of boots-on-plate aboard a starship's hull, no matter how large or ambient the white noise supplied.
It was as she reflected on the multitudinal ways the experience was different that she had a realization.
"There's something wrong."
"Is it that we got sent out without a vehicle? 'Cause I think we could have covered all this ground in a few seconds. Honestly, says everything that the Governess shipped us out here, but got tight-fisted with vehicles and equipment."
"No, everyone, be quiet!"
"You be quiet, Serenie!" The soldier in front of Zell snapped back.
"Shut up!" She hissed. Sergeant Patmorica spun on her heel. "Private Serenie. What are you-"
"Please, just- just- would you just listen!" A few seconds passed as everyone stared, either obeying or just shocked at the quiet girl's outburst.
"Listen...for what?" Zell finally broke the silence.
"Exactly. Do you hear anything? Birds? See any deer? Where are all the animals?"
"What's your point?"
"I think that we are not alone in this forest."
"Well, we were sent in to investigate where people disappeared to. Duh. It's a good thing if we aren't."
"But where are the animals?"
"I don't know. They migrate, right? Look." As if on cue, a tight formation of flying Canadian Geese passed overhead, honking. "There's your noisy animals right there."
Zell pointed and quipped. “Look sarge, insurgents!” The hand tracked the geese as they flew overhead.
Serenie felt trapped. How had some stranger from out-of-state been promoted to Sergeant and assigned to lead these pods, despite clearly never leading so much as a patrol in a yellow zone? Worse, Patmorica continued her teasing, likely to try and regain some face after her authority being openly challenged.
"Should we call it in? Tell Command: 'it's quiet' or ‘I saw some parrots’? With everything else going on in the state, do you think they'll laugh, or do you think they'll...?" The sergeant turned back to face the forest whose edge they were weaving in and out of, turning to start walking up the steep hill again, as if transfixed by something. "Hold on. I've got some thermal there and- hey, are you Ladies picking this up? I've got an IFF..."
Serenie dutifully reported her readings, grateful to at least get the topic changed. "I've got one friendly- two now. Security Forces standard."
Sergeant Patmorica pointed up the steep embankment she'd been about to start walking up. "I'm reading them as being straight ahead on my map. Confirm?"
This time someone else spoke up, and with all the fresh voices and full helmets, Serenie wasn't sure she could place them all. She was too busy staring at the collection of dead and dried branches lining the bottom of the hill.
What might leave such a large swath or create a clearing? A bear? She'd seen a video of one rubbing their backs against trees, one of the first to return to the state of Delaware, dubbed ‘DelaBear. These were certainly very large, unfamiliar trees. She’d never seen anything like them before, much as she’d never seen a Bear. To her mind, she might imagine such a large furry beast seeking out a suitably large tree, for some purpose or other. But she did not see any tufts of fur stuck in the grass or to the bark. And didn’t they only do that when shedding off their loose fur in Spring?
"It's two of the missing Security Forces," reported the sergeant somewhat spiritedly, leading the way toward the hill, the pod moving forward in her wake.
She crouched low again, taking a step back, eyes following where a serpentine footpath ascended the bluff. It was hard for her to make out if there were any footprints or animal tracks in the parched dirt, until at last she saw one near her own footprint. Conclusive evidence eluded her, but she thought she could make out a boot print, and searched her memory. Was it the pattern of the Security Forces uniforms? Was she just searching for signs and evidence, the conclusion already obvious in her mind?
Then she turned in place, and saw the many trampled grasses behind them, only noticeable once the patrol had reached where they had all converged. There were far, far too many to be the Security Forces.
"Zell. Zell! Hold here," Serenie whispered, putting her hand out to block her new podmate's progress.
"What?"
"Trust me."
"Privates! Fall in!"
Patmorica's tone was harsh. Serenie motioned like she was going to comply, freezing in place again the moment the sergeant's back was turned to her again. Something about this place seemed wrong. Where were the others of their 'squad'? And why hadn't they reached out to them on the comms yet?
Zell shook her hand free of Serenie's.
"Zell. Zell!"
Zell ignored her.
"Zell, will you stop thinking of fucking your father and turning your family tree into a circle for one depths-damned minute and listen to me!? Something. Is. Wrong."
"What?" Zell hissed, annoyedly. "I'm not getting in trouble just because you have 'a feeling'."
"There's some sort of structure up top. I'm getting metal readings. Way more than just their plate armor. Sensors are reading weird depressions on the way up, too. I'll relay it to your suits' telemetry. Are you receiving this?"
"How do I do that?" Zell asked, tapping her helmet. "Ah to the depths with it. Could it be caves?" Serenie's dimwitted podmate asked, clearly dreading that the answer potentially might be: 'Yes, now we have to go explore them.'
"Didn't you read your briefing? Delaware doesn't have caves." Serenie had read that first upon deployment, and then wondered where all the bats came from.
"Then what is-"
At that point, her comms dropped off completely, replaced with a sharp whine in her ear.
Communications lost. Signal lost.
"Ma'am, Sergeant? Zell? I've got a suit malfunction- I can't hear you." Serenie called out, pressing the button to retract the mouthpiece of her helmet. Her suit's connection to the satellites seemed to have cut out. Most of her HUD blanked out as she stepped forward to be heard, the device no longer receiving data to sync with the other suits and Command. The Friendly IFF signals had winked out as well.
Everyone seemed to be looking amongst each other, slowly coming closer together to be heard, faceplates retracting so they could speak, or touching helmets so the suit would pick up the vibrations.
So it wasn't just her, then, but her podmates, too. All of them were eyeing the hill, now, Serenie's sinking suspicion catching on. Then, everyone was calling out activity at once, some of them pointing in different directions, clumsily sighting down their rifles without the HUD to guide their targeting reticle.
"Everyone fall back. Rifles up- rifles up! Those are not friendlies!"
Movement from the crest of the ridge, figures pointing down at them, including the long barrels of unusual weaponry, the likes of which Serenie had seen glimpses of before, and again in her nightmares. Voices called out over one another, without a comms system to filter or grant priority.
"Motion! I've got motion!"
"It's an ambush!"
"Identify and surrender now! Lay down your weapons!" The sergeant yelled. There was no answer, but neither side opened fire. "Identify yourselves immediately!" Bellowed the sergeant, again, switching her command suit to loudly project her voice in the local tongue. "Surrender immediately!" Serenie was pulling Zell back. They were vastly outnumbered.
Those low, unmistakable, clipped and precise tones of the Emperor of Mankind that her translator didn't need to pick up had her heart thrumming in her ears too loud to even make out the words, no matter how clearly enunciated they were. She knew what they meant well enough, and her steps backward started carrying her out of the woods on instinct.
For what it was worth, her sergeant didn't balk, and renewed her demands.
"Surrender immediately! Lay down your arms!"
The response was as sudden as it was brutal. Where once Sergeant Patmorica had stood, now there was empty air. Something powerful cleaved her in half, a sharp roar of noise following as the hypersonic round split the air in a deafening thunderclap.
She hadn't quite been vaporized, rather jerked clean off her feet by a sudden and terrible impact, boots leaving the ground and her body separated at the middle, halves toppling to the ground and held together by the just as suddenly exposed entrails. The shock of the impact had surely killed her instantly.
Serenie turned on her heel and ran for her life.
I grabbed the megaphone, irritated that I'd been kept waiting so long for them to show up. "We don't have enough facilities to take you all prisoner. Please elect your bravest, most stalwart defenders of your way of life, and have them step forward into the line of fire for us to dispose of. The remainder of you will be afforded the same kindness as you have given our civilians. As you're unfamiliar with democracy and the concept of 'voting,' we'll give you a moment to conform to our system of governance and culture, whether you like it or not. You get an unreasonably short amount of time to comply."
I tossed the Megaphone back down to Larry, who stared up at me with wide eyes. The sound of wind through the trees was all endured for now, a shocked silence settling in.
"What?" I asked, hefting the railgun up to my shoulder with a shrug and aiming down the sights at the one who continued to bellow threats. It seemed we had a volunteer. "Turnabout is fair play."
I raised an open hand to all those who had watched, and the stunned silence turned to eager discipline, men sighting irons and readying themselves to unleash hell as I lowered my hand slowly, indicating I was to take the first shot.
"The Emperor has given his orders!" He bellowed into the megaphone. "Hold the line! Hold for the signal!"
I squeezed off the first round, letting the railgun round kick- and this time I was braced for it. The shot took the woman right in the midsection, and tore her apart. Screaming and shouting from below- but no signs of an immediate mass surrender.
"FIRE!"
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Alien-Nation Discord
Buy A Coffee for the Author
Chapter Summary:
Shot Heard Across the Galaxy A poor Shil'vati patrol goes looking for that Security Force that just got blasted in the last chapter
First Contact: We jump POV, where Elias gives them "pretty much the exact terms" of their invasion and occupation, turning it back on them.
Shot Heard Across the Galaxy
Serenie learned some new insults over her comm as a pursuing Captain Goshen had watched the insurgent 'clear a building in a single bound like a retarded kangaroo with viagra in its tail.'" Serenie had never seen a kangaroo, but Earth's nature had fascinated her, and the loose familiarity caused her alone to laugh uproariously at the Captain’s breathless fury.
There were some other matters the Captain had muttered about, such as ‘lies turning truth’ that seemed to elude Serenie’s grasp. One thing that the Captain made certain Serenie did understand was the concept of punishment duty for her laughter. Double-shifts just seemed to be the order of the day, but being sent far afield with these people could hardly be called anything else. The scenery was occasionally something she’d have called nice, if it wasn’t for her present circumstance.
She was stuck with her new podmate, Zell, who it seemed just could not shut up.
"Look. All I'm saying is, they're hot. Hotter than the Security Forces 'squad' we're looking for. 'Squad.' Such a stupid-sounding word."
Serenie's expansive patrol pod had been shattered apart by casualties in the wake of Emperor's attack on Unification Square. The combat patrol had been dropped over twenty feet onto jagged concrete as the overpass they were sprinting across collapsed underneath them into rubble, courtesy of planted explosives. Serenie was one of the only ones to come out with relatively minor injuries and to make a full recovery. She'd even hobbled to the square on a broken leg, just in time to behold the horrific spectacle of the building’s collapse.
Now those cast off shards of incomplete pods had been shuffled and mixed up to serve with some temporarily deployed Shil'vati forces from out-of-state.
Two whole pods made up of the odd numbers from other units, sent to Delaware on punishment duty of their own came together to compose the new team of six out of the hodgepodge. Once Zell had used all her brain to do the math, she announced excitedly: ‘A grateful human boy for each of their rescuers.’
And so the two pods set off with initial enthusiasm, unburdened by much familiarity with one another. That had been three miles ago, and by now the excitement had given way to bitterness over how they were wasting time on a long walk across open, somewhat bleak bulldozed terrain that nature work crews had yet to reclaim, doing Search and Rescue for a bunch of deserters who didn't want to be found at all, instead of rounding up those 'mysterious hot insurgent guys.'
Serenie reflected that at least the razed structures and tall grasses offered a nice view of the vibrant colors the trees were starting to turn. A 'silver lining,' as the more optimistic locals liked to say. 'Well the square was utterly destroyed and you're led by an idiot from a green zone, but at least you're alive!'
The boys here were always upbeat. Then again, they were paid to take their clients' minds off their troubles. And she had to admit they worked better than the stupid Anarevoca. The deep rest in the arms of the man she'd visited while on mandatory medical and psychological leave had done more for her recovery and in then passing the evaluation than anything else she’d tried. She didn’t regret a moment or credit of the exchange, even if the bribes and fees to slip her out and get her the secret rendezvous did her accounts the same kind of damage as she herself had suffered.
She hoped Azraea hadn’t lowered the score just to get every soldier back on the front lines, and switched her line of thought. It did her no benefit to dwell on such things. ‘At least he let me sleep longer than I paid for’, she reflected, remembering the faintly sweet musk of where his shoulder met his neck, and how gently he’d run his fingernails along the back of her head, through her scalp until she fell asleep.
"The insurgents are not 'hot'," Serenie sputtered. "They're supposedly all too old, too set in their ways to adapt. You know, like, twice your age. You got a father-fucker fetish or something?" Serenie had already had more than an earful of this conversation, and repeating her rent-a-paramour’s comforting words buttressed her conviction. The honeyed sense of validation he’d whispered into her ears was better than dwelling on the possibility that the planet and all the men on it all just outright hated her.
"What, so you got your asses kicked by a bunch of daddies?" At Serenie's stare, her new podmate from New Jersey relented slightly. "Okay, fine. At least admit the idea of them is hot. So hot.” When Serenie didn’t bite, Zell kept going. “Come on- physically active, mysterious, and just need some love and affection before they realize we aren't so bad, and you win 'em over with -"
"-Yeah, alright, you find one, you try it, you tell me how it goes. If you survive and he’s somehow tolerating even someone like you, then I figure I can swipe him off you."
"Fuck no, we'll share, and you'll be grateful I'm so generous. Seriously, share the insurgency, I say. I can charm 'em so good we'll have peace within the day."
Serenie wondered how Zell had served this long and didn't realize human men tended to be fiercely monogamous. Maybe things were different where Zell served, though Serenie doubted it was.
"That's something I actually wanted to ask. I thought maybe you'd know." Serenie wasn’t sure why Zell might know anything, but it was at least in the area of Zell’s obvious obsessions. "How is 'fuck' an insult? Especially when the humans say words that mean 'fuck you,' but they use it as an insult. But even other forms of it mean ‘get fucked,’ or something."
"You sure it's an insult? Sounds like an invitation, if you ask me. Have you tried asking them ‘when’?"
Just one more addition to the ever-growing mountain of evidence that Zell was an idiot.
The new pod's equally new sergeant was little better, but at least when Sergeant Patmorica interrupted this time, it was focused on the mission. Her comm cut through the half-hearted banter as she made her periodic report at the required interval.
"Command, we've got eyes on a pretty good LZ on the crest of this hill, mark for exfiltration if necessary." Sergeant Patmorica pointed a gauntleted finger to the ridge on the far side of the field. Rote procedure; the last one she'd pointed to would be marked as a secondary. "Got a wide open view of that woods near where the patrol of Security Forces went missing- not seeing much out here in the field. Permission to move into the forest and check for them?"
Data Officer Borzun's voice floated back. "Granted. Relief forces will be en route if you find anything, ETA eleven minutes from Command."
The return signal sounded distant, quieter than normal. Something about that troubled her, but Serenie didn't want to draw the attention of a sergeant eager to prove she was capable of leading a couple pods, or feel she had to prove herself to the red zone veteran. Even more disturbing, Zell looked ready to start talking again.
"How are the other leads looking?" Serenie piped up quickly. At least the sergeant might offer something helpful, even if the information was secondhand.
"Not great. A lot of the people who are supposed to be patrolling looking for rebels are responding to the strikes and protests at the prisons, beating up protestors who weren't on any lists, trying to restore some semblance of order," Sergeant Patmorica responded with surprising candor.
"Be a real shame if no one's here. We could be out there helping," Zell picked up the line conversationally as they descended from the crest of the hill near the river, past an old sign that read 'Mister Pasta'. "Instead we're chasing down wayward Security Forces, who probably cut and ran."
"Best lead we've had so far," Patmorica responded.
"Have you heard anything about 'Camp Death'?"
"Just whispers. Nothing solid," Patmorica said, stepping over a half-buried old curb. The work here in leveling the town and returning it to nature had certainly been hurried and half-done. The ridge of the distant trees hadn't expanded outward much at all.
"Supposedly, it's somewhere in the North. We're in the North."
"What, you think Camp Death is actually in the middle of nowhere, somewhere out here? Come on, the town's leveled. There was a bomb that went off literally over there-" Serenie pointed across the rubble of the highway they were walking along. "-Some local shirtless kid pulled a Lieutenant out of the rubble."
"Doesn't seem to have been enough for them to consider saving the neighborhood. Not a chance it's out here; Work crews woulda spotted it."
"Guess the work crews finally got around to really taking the place apart before, you know, 'shit hit the fan.'
Human words were very evocative. Terrible situations lined with precious metals, feces being sprayed about by rapid physical impacts- the mental images they provided, disturbing though they often were, seemed silly enough to bring a smile that had been all too absent on the senior private's face ever since her time in Unification Square.
There used to be some roads here, but all that's been cut off. A bunch of trees, and no structures, no infrastructure, and a bunch of troops? That's just begging for an orbital strike."
"He might have the hostages there. Anywhere might."
The sergeant paused, contemplating something, then jumping into a private comm chat with Serenie, her voice coming through a bit more crisply. "Yeah, alright. Look, I read your file. You had your run-ins. You're still shaken, I understand that, but I need you to not jump at shadows, got that? You get to go on patrol with us, finding some lost boys who forgot how to read a map, and maybe lending your local expertise. But I have to weigh that against what you went through. The absolute last thing I need is you opening fire because one of the Security Forces guys sneezes, and it sets you off. Are we clear? Not everything's an insurgent. Not everything is done by insurgents."
"Ma'am," Serenie responded. "Understood. I'm cleared as ready for action." Idiot or not, Sergeant Patmorica was still her commanding officer for the time being, and she couldn't exactly relate her late night rendezvous in a red zone and say she was 'all better now.' Confessing such a violation was just begging to be written up.
"That's what I like to hear." Something about her answer or stature must have been conveyed while providing the words because they seemed to reassure Patmorica of her readiness. Serenie felt a ray of hope that she was really, well and truly had finally free from the aftereffects.
The rest of the walk along the treeline was blessedly quiet. Five minutes of peaceful walking. No idiots, no stupid orders, no more braggadocia. Even in full kit, Serenie enjoyed nature on earth in all its many mysterious and downright strange aspects. The morning chill felt crisp, and the crunch of dried parched dirt and grasses under her boots felt more alive than the steady beat of boots-on-plate aboard a starship's hull, no matter how large or ambient the white noise supplied.
It was as she reflected on the multitudinal ways the experience was different that she had a realization.
"There's something wrong."
"Is it that we got sent out without a vehicle? 'Cause I think we could have covered all this ground in a few seconds. Honestly, says everything that the Governess shipped us out here, but got tight-fisted with vehicles and equipment."
"No, everyone, be quiet!"
"You be quiet, Serenie!" The soldier in front of Zell snapped back.
"Shut up!" She hissed. Sergeant Patmorica spun on her heel. "Private Serenie. What are you-"
"Please, just- just- would you just listen!" A few seconds passed as everyone stared, either obeying or just shocked at the quiet girl's outburst.
"Listen...for what?" Zell finally broke the silence.
"Exactly. Do you hear anything? Birds? See any deer? Where are all the animals?"
"What's your point?"
"I think that we are not alone in this forest."
"Well, we were sent in to investigate where people disappeared to. Duh. It's a good thing if we aren't."
"But where are the animals?"
"I don't know. They migrate, right? Look." As if on cue, a tight formation of flying Canadian Geese passed overhead, honking. "There's your noisy animals right there."
Zell pointed and quipped. “Look sarge, insurgents!” The hand tracked the geese as they flew overhead.
Serenie felt trapped. How had some stranger from out-of-state been promoted to Sergeant and assigned to lead these pods, despite clearly never leading so much as a patrol in a yellow zone? Worse, Patmorica continued her teasing, likely to try and regain some face after her authority being openly challenged.
"Should we call it in? Tell Command: 'it's quiet' or ‘I saw some parrots’? With everything else going on in the state, do you think they'll laugh, or do you think they'll...?" The sergeant turned back to face the forest whose edge they were weaving in and out of, turning to start walking up the steep hill again, as if transfixed by something. "Hold on. I've got some thermal there and- hey, are you Ladies picking this up? I've got an IFF..."
Serenie dutifully reported her readings, grateful to at least get the topic changed. "I've got one friendly- two now. Security Forces standard."
Sergeant Patmorica pointed up the steep embankment she'd been about to start walking up. "I'm reading them as being straight ahead on my map. Confirm?"
This time someone else spoke up, and with all the fresh voices and full helmets, Serenie wasn't sure she could place them all. She was too busy staring at the collection of dead and dried branches lining the bottom of the hill.
What might leave such a large swath or create a clearing? A bear? She'd seen a video of one rubbing their backs against trees, one of the first to return to the state of Delaware, dubbed ‘DelaBear. These were certainly very large, unfamiliar trees. She’d never seen anything like them before, much as she’d never seen a Bear. To her mind, she might imagine such a large furry beast seeking out a suitably large tree, for some purpose or other. But she did not see any tufts of fur stuck in the grass or to the bark. And didn’t they only do that when shedding off their loose fur in Spring?
"It's two of the missing Security Forces," reported the sergeant somewhat spiritedly, leading the way toward the hill, the pod moving forward in her wake.
She crouched low again, taking a step back, eyes following where a serpentine footpath ascended the bluff. It was hard for her to make out if there were any footprints or animal tracks in the parched dirt, until at last she saw one near her own footprint. Conclusive evidence eluded her, but she thought she could make out a boot print, and searched her memory. Was it the pattern of the Security Forces uniforms? Was she just searching for signs and evidence, the conclusion already obvious in her mind?
Then she turned in place, and saw the many trampled grasses behind them, only noticeable once the patrol had reached where they had all converged. There were far, far too many to be the Security Forces.
"Zell. Zell! Hold here," Serenie whispered, putting her hand out to block her new podmate's progress.
"What?"
"Trust me."
"Privates! Fall in!"
Patmorica's tone was harsh. Serenie motioned like she was going to comply, freezing in place again the moment the sergeant's back was turned to her again. Something about this place seemed wrong. Where were the others of their 'squad'? And why hadn't they reached out to them on the comms yet?
Zell shook her hand free of Serenie's.
"Zell. Zell!"
Zell ignored her.
"Zell, will you stop thinking of fucking your father and turning your family tree into a circle for one depths-damned minute and listen to me!? Something. Is. Wrong."
"What?" Zell hissed, annoyedly. "I'm not getting in trouble just because you have 'a feeling'."
"There's some sort of structure up top. I'm getting metal readings. Way more than just their plate armor. Sensors are reading weird depressions on the way up, too. I'll relay it to your suits' telemetry. Are you receiving this?"
"How do I do that?" Zell asked, tapping her helmet. "Ah to the depths with it. Could it be caves?" Serenie's dimwitted podmate asked, clearly dreading that the answer potentially might be: 'Yes, now we have to go explore them.'
"Didn't you read your briefing? Delaware doesn't have caves." Serenie had read that first upon deployment, and then wondered where all the bats came from.
"Then what is-"
At that point, her comms dropped off completely, replaced with a sharp whine in her ear.
Communications lost. Signal lost.
"Ma'am, Sergeant? Zell? I've got a suit malfunction- I can't hear you." Serenie called out, pressing the button to retract the mouthpiece of her helmet. Her suit's connection to the satellites seemed to have cut out. Most of her HUD blanked out as she stepped forward to be heard, the device no longer receiving data to sync with the other suits and Command. The Friendly IFF signals had winked out as well.
Everyone seemed to be looking amongst each other, slowly coming closer together to be heard, faceplates retracting so they could speak, or touching helmets so the suit would pick up the vibrations.
So it wasn't just her, then, but her podmates, too. All of them were eyeing the hill, now, Serenie's sinking suspicion catching on. Then, everyone was calling out activity at once, some of them pointing in different directions, clumsily sighting down their rifles without the HUD to guide their targeting reticle.
"Everyone fall back. Rifles up- rifles up! Those are not friendlies!"
Movement from the crest of the ridge, figures pointing down at them, including the long barrels of unusual weaponry, the likes of which Serenie had seen glimpses of before, and again in her nightmares. Voices called out over one another, without a comms system to filter or grant priority.
"Motion! I've got motion!"
"It's an ambush!"
"Identify and surrender now! Lay down your weapons!" The sergeant yelled. There was no answer, but neither side opened fire. "Identify yourselves immediately!" Bellowed the sergeant, again, switching her command suit to loudly project her voice in the local tongue. "Surrender immediately!" Serenie was pulling Zell back. They were vastly outnumbered.
Those low, unmistakable, clipped and precise tones of the Emperor of Mankind that her translator didn't need to pick up had her heart thrumming in her ears too loud to even make out the words, no matter how clearly enunciated they were. She knew what they meant well enough, and her steps backward started carrying her out of the woods on instinct.
For what it was worth, her sergeant didn't balk, and renewed her demands.
"Surrender immediately! Lay down your arms!"
The response was as sudden as it was brutal. Where once Sergeant Patmorica had stood, now there was empty air. Something powerful cleaved her in half, a sharp roar of noise following as the hypersonic round split the air in a deafening thunderclap.
She hadn't quite been vaporized, rather jerked clean off her feet by a sudden and terrible impact, boots leaving the ground and her body separated at the middle, halves toppling to the ground and held together by the just as suddenly exposed entrails. The shock of the impact had surely killed her instantly.
Serenie turned on her heel and ran for her life.
First Blood
"Sur-ren-dar!" The call sounded out from the valley below. One of those few words the Shil'vati knew and uttered almost every time we met, often before we'd even begun fighting.I grabbed the megaphone, irritated that I'd been kept waiting so long for them to show up. "We don't have enough facilities to take you all prisoner. Please elect your bravest, most stalwart defenders of your way of life, and have them step forward into the line of fire for us to dispose of. The remainder of you will be afforded the same kindness as you have given our civilians. As you're unfamiliar with democracy and the concept of 'voting,' we'll give you a moment to conform to our system of governance and culture, whether you like it or not. You get an unreasonably short amount of time to comply."
I tossed the Megaphone back down to Larry, who stared up at me with wide eyes. The sound of wind through the trees was all endured for now, a shocked silence settling in.
"What?" I asked, hefting the railgun up to my shoulder with a shrug and aiming down the sights at the one who continued to bellow threats. It seemed we had a volunteer. "Turnabout is fair play."
I raised an open hand to all those who had watched, and the stunned silence turned to eager discipline, men sighting irons and readying themselves to unleash hell as I lowered my hand slowly, indicating I was to take the first shot.
"The Emperor has given his orders!" He bellowed into the megaphone. "Hold the line! Hold for the signal!"
I squeezed off the first round, letting the railgun round kick- and this time I was braced for it. The shot took the woman right in the midsection, and tore her apart. Screaming and shouting from below- but no signs of an immediate mass surrender.
"FIRE!"
Alien-Nation Discord
Buy A Coffee for the Author
2023.06.01 10:18 uneasyphilosopher DAE not struggle with phone calls?
I find the idea of writing an email or something similar way more anxiety inducing, than making a phone call and knowing how I come off.
Just to mention, I don’t have a official dx, and I do suspect AuDHD, I am also high-masking, and worked as a voice actor for well over a decade. Tone control, and picking up tones are skills I’ve perfected in a profesional setting, so I do understand I am the odd one out here. But, still, it feels a bit lonely lol
With speaking, I know how I can manipulate the influx of a sentence, so even if the wording is “blunt”, I’ll just correct through non-verbal cues at the end. With emails, I can’t do that, I start overthinking, and reworking a three sentence message like I’m attempting to break up with a partner of 5 years via Morse code.
submitted by uneasyphilosopher to AutismInWomen [link] [comments]
Just to mention, I don’t have a official dx, and I do suspect AuDHD, I am also high-masking, and worked as a voice actor for well over a decade. Tone control, and picking up tones are skills I’ve perfected in a profesional setting, so I do understand I am the odd one out here. But, still, it feels a bit lonely lol
With speaking, I know how I can manipulate the influx of a sentence, so even if the wording is “blunt”, I’ll just correct through non-verbal cues at the end. With emails, I can’t do that, I start overthinking, and reworking a three sentence message like I’m attempting to break up with a partner of 5 years via Morse code.
2023.06.01 09:58 Enmanyan-V [TotK] They knew I’d do it
I made it to Dragonhead Island without clearing the Faron thunderstorm. Got lucky with some falling ruins. I didn’t know it was a story thing, until I opened the door, and Mineru’s voice started talking.
There’re actual voiced lines for if you get to Mineru’s construct’s mask before completing the other four sages’ story quests. She essentially tells Link that she was planning on waiting a little longer, but since he’s already here, she’ll do things a bit early.
submitted by Enmanyan-V to zelda [link] [comments]
There’re actual voiced lines for if you get to Mineru’s construct’s mask before completing the other four sages’ story quests. She essentially tells Link that she was planning on waiting a little longer, but since he’s already here, she’ll do things a bit early.
2023.06.01 09:46 MagnusJakobsson After drinking for 15 years and being a complete alcoholic my brain got rewired so I quit drinking overnight. Over 2,5 years sober now and will never drink again.
Wrote this on my Facebook when I passed one year alcohol free (now 2,5) , thought I'd share it here also for those that might need it.
Last year during a dinner with two of my closest friends, was the moment when I finally realized what a slave to alcohol I was.
I sat there with two people I love to death, and I hated every second of it.
Why?
Because we weren't drinking...
The entire evening was unbearable to me.
I felt so uncomfortable, unease, and couldn't for the life of me relax or stop checking my phone.
Even during a moment with two people I love, the situation was completely insufferable for me, with a constant internal nagging for a drink that would never stop.
"We can have just one drink tonight and then call it a day, so we don't fuck up all day tomorrow."
Sure. I don't know how many times I've heard that before.
The voice inside my head would "reason with me like a lawyer and then stab me in the back as soon as it got the chance." / Steven Pressfield
It would never be just one drink.
After the first, there was always a much better argument for the second.
And if I opened that door and got started with the first one, it was impossible to stop. I'd continue alone long after everybody else and most likely the next day as well. We both knew that.
The whole fight was about letting the first one in. Whoever won that round would win the battle of the day.
And until I took the first, the arguments would hit me from every angle imaginable and tell me ANYTHING to get started.
"Just one drink won't hurt."
"You have worked really hard lately, so you deserve to relax and enjoy yourself."
"You'll feel much better after a vodka shot."
"Imagine how good it would taste with a vodka diet coke right now."
"It doesn't have to be so boring here. You can have a drink right now and feel better within seconds."
"They have happy hour on this drink, so you can save 10€ on it."
"If you drink, you can probably get the number from that girl over there."
And on and on and on…
If this didn't work, it would show me fun memories I've had when I was drunk and how I could have the same now if I just took… one drink, which could be mine in an instant…
After hours of arguing and fighting "it", I would eventually get worn down and completely exhaust myself with no more energy to fight it. (Roy Baumeister talks about this in his book Willpower)
That's sometimes when I would get started, it was just a question of time…
It would never give up and stop trying.
From the outset, It probably looked like I just sat there miserable and hated everything. I might even have been considered anti-social, shy, or even insecure, or that I just didn't like talking to people when I was sober.
Internally, I was battling the darkness inside my head with everything I had.
Looking back at most social situations over the last couple of years, that's what happened every single time.
I hated all social occasions and couldn't for the life of me be anything other than absolutely miserable.
Even at a simple Christmas with my family, small birthday parties, or hangouts with only my closest friends were hell to go through for me.
My brain wouldn't let me enjoy them.
I couldn't do it without alcohol it was impossible.
By making me feel miserable, uncomfortable and hating every second of being sober - it would increase the likelihood of me drinking again. Because I'd want it more.
It knew exactly what it was doing. It was all part of the plan.
It's brilliant and absolutely terrifying. Because I'm so NOT in control anymore. The poison is consuming my brain from the inside and making my entire life dark, grey and miserable without any meaning to anything.
The only time I'll feel good and be happy, is when I'm consuming alcohol.
It's not just a belief or a mindset anymore. It's now who I am as a person down in the deepest level and the core of my entire personality.
Here's how it was making me feel inside:
Unless I'm drinking - I'm worthlessUnless I'm drinking - My friends don't like meUnless I'm drinking - girls are not interested and I shouldn't even try talking to themUnless I'm drinking - I can't have fun or enjoy any social situationUnless I'm drinking - I'm not charismatic or able to "let myself go" (I won't have access to that fun and outgoing personality)Unless I'm drinking - I always feel like something is missing.
And there was no escape from it. I was trapped living like this day in and day out. Drinking was always the solution to everything.
No matter how much I drank, how drunk I got, or how bad the poison was making my body feel...
I always wanted more.
The worst part of it is that it didn't matter what I did to try and feel better.
It didn't matter if I exercised, did a fun activity, ate healthily, took supplements, spent time in the sun, had sex, or did anything else to boost my dopamine, serotonin, or oxytocin.
It hit me on such a deep level that NOTHING I did would make me feel any better… I felt so incredibly powerless.
I don't know exactly when it got this bad, and I went from just being a party guy to becoming an alcoholic.
But I know it's entirely self-made, and it was a gradual step-by-step process that came from more than a decade of severe alcohol abuse, one drink at the time.
It started so subtly, I turned 18 in 2004 and I just wanted to go out and party and have fun with my friends. It's what Swedish people do. Drinking is heavily integrated into our culture and is something you do once you become an adult.
Fast forward to 2016 I can remember that I felt great and strong mentally. I was happy and optimistic all the time and had no problems going to social events or situations sober and be confident and happy.
One year later in 2017 I quit going out and was mostly drinking at home once a week or a couple of times a month. The glamour of alcohol was long gone, and now I was just consuming it out of habit.
I was even sober for 116 days without alcohol that year. But the damage had already been done. During my sober period, I can clearly remember that I hated socializing and couldn't wait for this period to be over.
In other words, nothing had internally changed. I was still an alcoholic who just happened to be able to resist it longer that time.
I kept telling myself I had it under control because I was only drinking once a week, a couple of times a month or could have a break at any time.
But it was what I needed to hear to rationalize it. I'd say anything to fool myself and not face the obvious truth.
On top of that...
From 2017-2019 I was battling depression, alcoholism, loneliness, struggling financially, and tried to run a business - all at the same time for about 2 years.
I also managed to crash my dad's 60th surprise dinner in March 2019.
My dad is and will forever be my hero.
He's such a kindhearted, selfless and straight-out great man towards everyone.
Still... On his 60th birthday at his surprise dinner, I turned into a drunk monster and more or less crashed the whole thing.
I didn't mean for that to happen and I actually never thought I could do that, especially to him whom I admire and love so much.
But I did.
And I will forever be remembered and associated on his 60th birthday for how I more or less ruined it.
Once again, I'm sorry dad, it was never my intention. I was in a very dark place then. And it might have been like you said "a cry for help", I don't know. Still, no excuses. I accept everything I did that day and I'm truly sorry.
It's the darkest period of my entire life and the only escape from the situation was drinking. It was something that could make me think of something else, or feel something else for a moment.
But it was always short-lived. It would make me feel good for about 4 hours only to make me feel absolutely terrible for 5 days, at least.
My hangovers have always been bad, even since I was 18 I have had to spend the whole next day in bed.
Fun fact: At the age of 33 I had spent more than ONE YEAR in bed, being hungover. Must be some kind of accomplishment?
However...
15 years later in 2018 they became unbearable and turned life into a living hell.
One evening of drinking would result in me being completely exhausted in bed all day, the next with anxiety and a big feeling of emptiness inside me. Then for the next four days, the mental torture would start with overwhelming anxiety, suicidal thoughts, severe depression, and a complete meaninglessness of everything in life.
It's like living in a dark cloud for 4 days where there is no point in doing anything. Everything was meaningless and nothing I did would give any joy.
If I drank on a Saturday I'd feel okay again mentally on Thursday evening. I could time it with a watch.
Nothing would get me out of it. I tried everything.
Or there was one thing that always worked, that would instantly remove the anxiety and make me feel better immediately…
A drink.
One zip of alcohol would make me feel absolutely amazing right away. Almost like my brain got reactivated again in the area that generates positive emotions.
Even after a night of drinking and I'm completely destroyed, I would still crave alcohol over food and water the next day, even if it was the one thing that would make the whole situation worse.
Every single hangover was a battle, and I lost it more times than I can count because I couldn't stand the absolute hell in the days that followed (which would of course only reset the clock for another 4 days of mental torture to actually feel good again, and make the next hangover even worse).
And of course I didn't tell anyone how I felt or what I was dealing with.
My ex-girlfriend was the only person that knew how bad it really was. I don't think I would have made it through this without her enormous strength, love, and constant support.
But I even pulled away or closed myself off to her.
Sometimes I would mistakenly let my guard down and openly showcase how much pain I was in.
For a second, there was a window where you could see how much pain I was in, a moment behind the mask when I wasn't pretending.
But of course, I told her I was fine and didn't let her in.
Men don't talk about their feelings or show any weakness to anyone ever, even to their partners.
Feelings are something you bury as deep as you can and never speak about.
Right…?
……….
So why am I dropping this bomb out of the blue today?
Because today it's 1 year (now 2,5) since I quit drinking alcohol forever, and I became happier than I have been since I was a kid.
Because I have already lost 4 friends who were depressed, abused drugs or alcohol and eventually took their own lives.
And last year I lost another friend in an accident.
He texted me just a few weeks before he died out of the blue.
He said "he was good".
I mean, of course he did… What else would a depressed person say?
But I have a feeling he wasn't feeling okay and I should've asked more about it.
But I didn't and will never be able to.
It's so heartbreaking. We're losing these amazing human beings much too soon.
And my loved ones don't know how close the darkness was to take me down as well. Alcohol poisoned my entire brain and made me want to kill myself just to get rid of it.
That's what it does to you over time.
I truly understand my friends and other people who took their own lives, because I was right there on the edge also.
One step away from not being here today. (Making it 6 total close encounters with death so far)
In fact, thinking about committing suicide gave me a deep sense of relief and a way to make the pain stop.
I could imagine it and truly wish for it to happen.
"Imagine… to not be in pain anymore"
I can end it.
And the thought of going through with it felt amazing.
A gigantic sense of relief.
"But it's so selfish, think about your loved ones." Yes, but if every day is torture for you, then eventually you just wish for the pain to stop. That's all you want.
Not saying it's right, but it's understandable.
My point is this...
You never know who's dealing with depression, alcoholism, mental health or worse... is thinking about taking their own lives.
I have done my best to try and give you the brutal honest truth of the hell I went through during this time and what was really happening inside my mind.
It is really dark and absolutely terrifying, I know.
But do you want to know the scariest thing about this?
What me, my dead friends, and many other people who committed suicide all share together...
We (men especially) would rather kill ourselves than talk about our problems and reveal how we really feel.
We'd rather hide in the shadows than to tell our loved ones that we're going through something difficult.
That's why I have decided to step into the light and share this with you today. Regardless of how hard it is for me to write this, how it will make me look, or what people will say about me from this point onwards.
You don't understand how difficult this has been to write. I broke down crying right after publishing it and couldn't believe what I just did.
I'm an introvert who likes to be alone, and I hate to be in the center of attention. I have had problems opening up and expressing my feelings my entire life.
All year I have been dreading this day and tried to find the courage to finally start sharing my story.
For one reason only:
Because I believe it can help others who are going through what I did.
Getting help to beating my alcoholism is the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life because of how deep in its grip it had me and how it affected my entire mental state deep down in my core.
I was absolutely terrified of letting go of alcohol and become a person that could somehow exist without it.
My whole identity was wrapped around this thing, and it's all I have ever known since I was 18.
Who would I even be without it?
Alcohol kills 3 million people a year and many others commit suicide rather than getting help.
And it's breaking my heart.
During my darkest times I never asked for help or spoke to anyone about it, because I didn't know how to do it as I have never opened up and talked about my feelings.
At the same time, I didn't want to bother anyone with it. Not even my loved ones.
In fact, I'd lie to them if they asked me how I was doing and knew exactly how I could maneuver the conversation away from the topic and into something else, so I didn't have to talk about it.
So I kept fighting it alone.
But after a few years I got so tired of being unhappy living every single day in darkness that it left me with only two choices:
I can't take this anymore.
Ether I get help, or I'm going to kill myself. There is no other ending to this.
And that's ultimately how I overcame it.
I got help.
I tried something called Ayahuasca.
What is Ayahuasca? Ayahuasca is a South American (pan-Amazonian) psychoactive brew used both socially and as ceremonial spiritual medicine among the indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin.
Here's what Healthline describes it as:
"May help treat addiction, anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and PTSD. Some research suggests that Ayahuasca may benefit those with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction disorders"
You can read more on Wikipedia if you are interested.
Long story short…
It's the best thing I have ever done and nothing short of a miracle. I still can't believe it worked as well as it did.
My deep unquenching thirst to drink and the voice inside my head that had such a deep grip on me for over 15 years disappeared permanently overnight along with my depression!
I instantly became happier, stronger, and more confident than I have been in years (Plus many other things that I might share with you some other time.)
I have visited many restaurants, bars and been around plenty of drunk people over the past 2 years.
What used to be a constant nag for a drink in my head is just now complete silence without any pull whatsoever to alcohol.
Nothing.
Gone. Permanently. Overnight.
How is that even possible? It's a miracle.
My friends instantly noticed my transformation as well.
"You have never looked better. You look 10 years younger"
"Before you were always miserable. Now you seem so cool, calm and collected"
"You never used to make jokes unless you were drinking"
Yeah, I didn't have access to that "charismatic personality" without alcohol. I couldn't even make jokes unless I had a drink. Read that sentence again. I got locked out of my own brain somehow and wasn't allowed to be charismatic.
It's insane.
So if you're currently feeling like shit because you:
It's not your fault.
It's the addiction inside you that that makes you want to drink.
It's not you.
You can notice this if you look within yourself and see if alcohol is controlling you, and not the other way around.
The voice inside your head will tell you the exact opposite though and that "you can stop drinking at any time", or that "you have it under control".
In fact, it will tell you anything to keep you from looking at it objectively and realize you have a drinking problem.
I used to absolutely hate myself and beat myself up over how weak I was who couldn't even resist a simple thing like the urge to drink:
"Why can't you stop after 2 drinks like everyone else".
"Why can't you stay sober for once"
"How hard can it be to just not drink?"
Well freaking impossible. Because of how badly it hijacks your brain and tells you everything you wanna hear.
But I had absolutely 0 understanding or compassion for what I was going through or that I was an alcoholic.
In fact, beating my alcoholism is the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life because of how deep in its grip it had me, and how badly it affected my entire mental state deep down in my core.
I was absolutely terrified of letting go of alcohol and become a person that could somehow exist without it.
My whole identity was wrapped around this thing, and it's all I have ever known since I was 18.
I didn't even know who I would be without alcohol in my life.
It was my way to finally overcome it for good and it can be the same for you.
And let me be clear, I'm not suggesting that you must do Ayahuasca to stop drinking, but that you find the way that works best for you.
Whether that means talking to your parents, a friend, a therapist, or share a post on reddit... it doesn't matter.
Whatever works best for you.
But I promise you that you have a family who loves you that would glady help you to carry your burden and take some of your load off, if you'd just let them.
They are often more understanding, loving and helpful than you could've ever imagined.
As long as do just do something and decide to get some kind of support to help you.
Because you don't need to fight it alone.
You are already brave to have found your way to this stop drinking group.
So give yourself a pat on the back because you've already taking one action towards beating your alcohol habits.
As long as your heart is still beating, you can overcome it and come out happier, stronger, healthier and have a better life than you've ever had.
The only thing I want to end this book post with is this...
I'm just so incredibly happy and grateful that I can enjoy life again without alcohol. It literally brings tears of joy to my eyes sometimes when I think about it because I can't believe that I'm actually free of alcohol and will never drink again.
So now I want to share what I know and do what I can to help others do the same.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post.
Best of luck to you on your sober journey!
If you want some help or advice then I'm here for you. Seriously, don't hesitate!
PS: If you are curious to know how good or bad your relationship to alcohol is, here is a very simple test you can do to find out exactly where you stand:
Go to an environment where you normally drink (party, bar or restaurant) where other people are consuming alcohol around you, and don't drink any alcohol for the first 60 minutes of arriving.
Set a timer on your phone for 30 minutes and just socialize sober. Then pay close attention to what's happening inside of your body and mind.
How are you feeling? Are you still able to relax, feel good and enjoy the moment? Or are you feeling bored, uncomfortable, and not able to "let yourself go"?
What are your thoughts telling you? Remember, it will say anything to get what it wants.
Can you even let 30 minutes pass without you having to constantly check your phone for how much time is left on the clock before you can drink?
Be honest with yourself. You are the only one who can know the truth.
**sorry for repost / update for community guidelines**
submitted by MagnusJakobsson to stopdrinking [link] [comments]
Last year during a dinner with two of my closest friends, was the moment when I finally realized what a slave to alcohol I was.
I sat there with two people I love to death, and I hated every second of it.
Why?
Because we weren't drinking...
The entire evening was unbearable to me.
I felt so uncomfortable, unease, and couldn't for the life of me relax or stop checking my phone.
Even during a moment with two people I love, the situation was completely insufferable for me, with a constant internal nagging for a drink that would never stop.
"We can have just one drink tonight and then call it a day, so we don't fuck up all day tomorrow."
Sure. I don't know how many times I've heard that before.
The voice inside my head would "reason with me like a lawyer and then stab me in the back as soon as it got the chance." / Steven Pressfield
It would never be just one drink.
After the first, there was always a much better argument for the second.
And if I opened that door and got started with the first one, it was impossible to stop. I'd continue alone long after everybody else and most likely the next day as well. We both knew that.
The whole fight was about letting the first one in. Whoever won that round would win the battle of the day.
And until I took the first, the arguments would hit me from every angle imaginable and tell me ANYTHING to get started.
"Just one drink won't hurt."
"You have worked really hard lately, so you deserve to relax and enjoy yourself."
"You'll feel much better after a vodka shot."
"Imagine how good it would taste with a vodka diet coke right now."
"It doesn't have to be so boring here. You can have a drink right now and feel better within seconds."
"They have happy hour on this drink, so you can save 10€ on it."
"If you drink, you can probably get the number from that girl over there."
And on and on and on…
If this didn't work, it would show me fun memories I've had when I was drunk and how I could have the same now if I just took… one drink, which could be mine in an instant…
After hours of arguing and fighting "it", I would eventually get worn down and completely exhaust myself with no more energy to fight it. (Roy Baumeister talks about this in his book Willpower)
That's sometimes when I would get started, it was just a question of time…
It would never give up and stop trying.
From the outset, It probably looked like I just sat there miserable and hated everything. I might even have been considered anti-social, shy, or even insecure, or that I just didn't like talking to people when I was sober.
Internally, I was battling the darkness inside my head with everything I had.
Looking back at most social situations over the last couple of years, that's what happened every single time.
I hated all social occasions and couldn't for the life of me be anything other than absolutely miserable.
Even at a simple Christmas with my family, small birthday parties, or hangouts with only my closest friends were hell to go through for me.
My brain wouldn't let me enjoy them.
I couldn't do it without alcohol it was impossible.
By making me feel miserable, uncomfortable and hating every second of being sober - it would increase the likelihood of me drinking again. Because I'd want it more.
It knew exactly what it was doing. It was all part of the plan.
It's brilliant and absolutely terrifying. Because I'm so NOT in control anymore. The poison is consuming my brain from the inside and making my entire life dark, grey and miserable without any meaning to anything.
The only time I'll feel good and be happy, is when I'm consuming alcohol.
It's not just a belief or a mindset anymore. It's now who I am as a person down in the deepest level and the core of my entire personality.
Here's how it was making me feel inside:
Unless I'm drinking - I'm worthlessUnless I'm drinking - My friends don't like meUnless I'm drinking - girls are not interested and I shouldn't even try talking to themUnless I'm drinking - I can't have fun or enjoy any social situationUnless I'm drinking - I'm not charismatic or able to "let myself go" (I won't have access to that fun and outgoing personality)Unless I'm drinking - I always feel like something is missing.
And there was no escape from it. I was trapped living like this day in and day out. Drinking was always the solution to everything.
No matter how much I drank, how drunk I got, or how bad the poison was making my body feel...
I always wanted more.
The worst part of it is that it didn't matter what I did to try and feel better.
It didn't matter if I exercised, did a fun activity, ate healthily, took supplements, spent time in the sun, had sex, or did anything else to boost my dopamine, serotonin, or oxytocin.
It hit me on such a deep level that NOTHING I did would make me feel any better… I felt so incredibly powerless.
I don't know exactly when it got this bad, and I went from just being a party guy to becoming an alcoholic.
But I know it's entirely self-made, and it was a gradual step-by-step process that came from more than a decade of severe alcohol abuse, one drink at the time.
It started so subtly, I turned 18 in 2004 and I just wanted to go out and party and have fun with my friends. It's what Swedish people do. Drinking is heavily integrated into our culture and is something you do once you become an adult.
Fast forward to 2016 I can remember that I felt great and strong mentally. I was happy and optimistic all the time and had no problems going to social events or situations sober and be confident and happy.
One year later in 2017 I quit going out and was mostly drinking at home once a week or a couple of times a month. The glamour of alcohol was long gone, and now I was just consuming it out of habit.
I was even sober for 116 days without alcohol that year. But the damage had already been done. During my sober period, I can clearly remember that I hated socializing and couldn't wait for this period to be over.
In other words, nothing had internally changed. I was still an alcoholic who just happened to be able to resist it longer that time.
I kept telling myself I had it under control because I was only drinking once a week, a couple of times a month or could have a break at any time.
But it was what I needed to hear to rationalize it. I'd say anything to fool myself and not face the obvious truth.
On top of that...
From 2017-2019 I was battling depression, alcoholism, loneliness, struggling financially, and tried to run a business - all at the same time for about 2 years.
I also managed to crash my dad's 60th surprise dinner in March 2019.
My dad is and will forever be my hero.
He's such a kindhearted, selfless and straight-out great man towards everyone.
Still... On his 60th birthday at his surprise dinner, I turned into a drunk monster and more or less crashed the whole thing.
I didn't mean for that to happen and I actually never thought I could do that, especially to him whom I admire and love so much.
But I did.
And I will forever be remembered and associated on his 60th birthday for how I more or less ruined it.
Once again, I'm sorry dad, it was never my intention. I was in a very dark place then. And it might have been like you said "a cry for help", I don't know. Still, no excuses. I accept everything I did that day and I'm truly sorry.
It's the darkest period of my entire life and the only escape from the situation was drinking. It was something that could make me think of something else, or feel something else for a moment.
But it was always short-lived. It would make me feel good for about 4 hours only to make me feel absolutely terrible for 5 days, at least.
My hangovers have always been bad, even since I was 18 I have had to spend the whole next day in bed.
Fun fact: At the age of 33 I had spent more than ONE YEAR in bed, being hungover. Must be some kind of accomplishment?
However...
15 years later in 2018 they became unbearable and turned life into a living hell.
One evening of drinking would result in me being completely exhausted in bed all day, the next with anxiety and a big feeling of emptiness inside me. Then for the next four days, the mental torture would start with overwhelming anxiety, suicidal thoughts, severe depression, and a complete meaninglessness of everything in life.
It's like living in a dark cloud for 4 days where there is no point in doing anything. Everything was meaningless and nothing I did would give any joy.
If I drank on a Saturday I'd feel okay again mentally on Thursday evening. I could time it with a watch.
Nothing would get me out of it. I tried everything.
Or there was one thing that always worked, that would instantly remove the anxiety and make me feel better immediately…
A drink.
One zip of alcohol would make me feel absolutely amazing right away. Almost like my brain got reactivated again in the area that generates positive emotions.
Even after a night of drinking and I'm completely destroyed, I would still crave alcohol over food and water the next day, even if it was the one thing that would make the whole situation worse.
Every single hangover was a battle, and I lost it more times than I can count because I couldn't stand the absolute hell in the days that followed (which would of course only reset the clock for another 4 days of mental torture to actually feel good again, and make the next hangover even worse).
And of course I didn't tell anyone how I felt or what I was dealing with.
My ex-girlfriend was the only person that knew how bad it really was. I don't think I would have made it through this without her enormous strength, love, and constant support.
But I even pulled away or closed myself off to her.
Sometimes I would mistakenly let my guard down and openly showcase how much pain I was in.
For a second, there was a window where you could see how much pain I was in, a moment behind the mask when I wasn't pretending.
But of course, I told her I was fine and didn't let her in.
Men don't talk about their feelings or show any weakness to anyone ever, even to their partners.
Feelings are something you bury as deep as you can and never speak about.
Right…?
……….
So why am I dropping this bomb out of the blue today?
Because today it's 1 year (now 2,5) since I quit drinking alcohol forever, and I became happier than I have been since I was a kid.
Because I have already lost 4 friends who were depressed, abused drugs or alcohol and eventually took their own lives.
And last year I lost another friend in an accident.
He texted me just a few weeks before he died out of the blue.
He said "he was good".
I mean, of course he did… What else would a depressed person say?
But I have a feeling he wasn't feeling okay and I should've asked more about it.
But I didn't and will never be able to.
It's so heartbreaking. We're losing these amazing human beings much too soon.
And my loved ones don't know how close the darkness was to take me down as well. Alcohol poisoned my entire brain and made me want to kill myself just to get rid of it.
That's what it does to you over time.
I truly understand my friends and other people who took their own lives, because I was right there on the edge also.
One step away from not being here today. (Making it 6 total close encounters with death so far)
In fact, thinking about committing suicide gave me a deep sense of relief and a way to make the pain stop.
I could imagine it and truly wish for it to happen.
"Imagine… to not be in pain anymore"
I can end it.
And the thought of going through with it felt amazing.
A gigantic sense of relief.
"But it's so selfish, think about your loved ones." Yes, but if every day is torture for you, then eventually you just wish for the pain to stop. That's all you want.
Not saying it's right, but it's understandable.
My point is this...
You never know who's dealing with depression, alcoholism, mental health or worse... is thinking about taking their own lives.
I have done my best to try and give you the brutal honest truth of the hell I went through during this time and what was really happening inside my mind.
It is really dark and absolutely terrifying, I know.
But do you want to know the scariest thing about this?
What me, my dead friends, and many other people who committed suicide all share together...
We (men especially) would rather kill ourselves than talk about our problems and reveal how we really feel.
We'd rather hide in the shadows than to tell our loved ones that we're going through something difficult.
That's why I have decided to step into the light and share this with you today. Regardless of how hard it is for me to write this, how it will make me look, or what people will say about me from this point onwards.
You don't understand how difficult this has been to write. I broke down crying right after publishing it and couldn't believe what I just did.
I'm an introvert who likes to be alone, and I hate to be in the center of attention. I have had problems opening up and expressing my feelings my entire life.
All year I have been dreading this day and tried to find the courage to finally start sharing my story.
For one reason only:
Because I believe it can help others who are going through what I did.
Getting help to beating my alcoholism is the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life because of how deep in its grip it had me and how it affected my entire mental state deep down in my core.
I was absolutely terrified of letting go of alcohol and become a person that could somehow exist without it.
My whole identity was wrapped around this thing, and it's all I have ever known since I was 18.
Who would I even be without it?
Alcohol kills 3 million people a year and many others commit suicide rather than getting help.
And it's breaking my heart.
During my darkest times I never asked for help or spoke to anyone about it, because I didn't know how to do it as I have never opened up and talked about my feelings.
At the same time, I didn't want to bother anyone with it. Not even my loved ones.
In fact, I'd lie to them if they asked me how I was doing and knew exactly how I could maneuver the conversation away from the topic and into something else, so I didn't have to talk about it.
So I kept fighting it alone.
But after a few years I got so tired of being unhappy living every single day in darkness that it left me with only two choices:
I can't take this anymore.
Ether I get help, or I'm going to kill myself. There is no other ending to this.
And that's ultimately how I overcame it.
I got help.
I tried something called Ayahuasca.
What is Ayahuasca? Ayahuasca is a South American (pan-Amazonian) psychoactive brew used both socially and as ceremonial spiritual medicine among the indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin.
Here's what Healthline describes it as:
"May help treat addiction, anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and PTSD. Some research suggests that Ayahuasca may benefit those with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction disorders"
You can read more on Wikipedia if you are interested.
Long story short…
It's the best thing I have ever done and nothing short of a miracle. I still can't believe it worked as well as it did.
My deep unquenching thirst to drink and the voice inside my head that had such a deep grip on me for over 15 years disappeared permanently overnight along with my depression!
I instantly became happier, stronger, and more confident than I have been in years (Plus many other things that I might share with you some other time.)
I have visited many restaurants, bars and been around plenty of drunk people over the past 2 years.
What used to be a constant nag for a drink in my head is just now complete silence without any pull whatsoever to alcohol.
Nothing.
Gone. Permanently. Overnight.
How is that even possible? It's a miracle.
My friends instantly noticed my transformation as well.
"You have never looked better. You look 10 years younger"
"Before you were always miserable. Now you seem so cool, calm and collected"
"You never used to make jokes unless you were drinking"
Yeah, I didn't have access to that "charismatic personality" without alcohol. I couldn't even make jokes unless I had a drink. Read that sentence again. I got locked out of my own brain somehow and wasn't allowed to be charismatic.
It's insane.
So if you're currently feeling like shit because you:
- couldn't resist the alcohol cravings,
- got drunker than you intended
- or drank again even though it was the last thing you wanted
It's not your fault.
It's the addiction inside you that that makes you want to drink.
It's not you.
You can notice this if you look within yourself and see if alcohol is controlling you, and not the other way around.
The voice inside your head will tell you the exact opposite though and that "you can stop drinking at any time", or that "you have it under control".
In fact, it will tell you anything to keep you from looking at it objectively and realize you have a drinking problem.
I used to absolutely hate myself and beat myself up over how weak I was who couldn't even resist a simple thing like the urge to drink:
"Why can't you stop after 2 drinks like everyone else".
"Why can't you stay sober for once"
"How hard can it be to just not drink?"
Well freaking impossible. Because of how badly it hijacks your brain and tells you everything you wanna hear.
But I had absolutely 0 understanding or compassion for what I was going through or that I was an alcoholic.
In fact, beating my alcoholism is the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life because of how deep in its grip it had me, and how badly it affected my entire mental state deep down in my core.
I was absolutely terrified of letting go of alcohol and become a person that could somehow exist without it.
My whole identity was wrapped around this thing, and it's all I have ever known since I was 18.
I didn't even know who I would be without alcohol in my life.
It was my way to finally overcome it for good and it can be the same for you.
And let me be clear, I'm not suggesting that you must do Ayahuasca to stop drinking, but that you find the way that works best for you.
Whether that means talking to your parents, a friend, a therapist, or share a post on reddit... it doesn't matter.
Whatever works best for you.
But I promise you that you have a family who loves you that would glady help you to carry your burden and take some of your load off, if you'd just let them.
They are often more understanding, loving and helpful than you could've ever imagined.
As long as do just do something and decide to get some kind of support to help you.
Because you don't need to fight it alone.
You are already brave to have found your way to this stop drinking group.
So give yourself a pat on the back because you've already taking one action towards beating your alcohol habits.
As long as your heart is still beating, you can overcome it and come out happier, stronger, healthier and have a better life than you've ever had.
The only thing I want to end this book post with is this...
I'm just so incredibly happy and grateful that I can enjoy life again without alcohol. It literally brings tears of joy to my eyes sometimes when I think about it because I can't believe that I'm actually free of alcohol and will never drink again.
So now I want to share what I know and do what I can to help others do the same.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post.
Best of luck to you on your sober journey!
If you want some help or advice then I'm here for you. Seriously, don't hesitate!
PS: If you are curious to know how good or bad your relationship to alcohol is, here is a very simple test you can do to find out exactly where you stand:
Go to an environment where you normally drink (party, bar or restaurant) where other people are consuming alcohol around you, and don't drink any alcohol for the first 60 minutes of arriving.
Set a timer on your phone for 30 minutes and just socialize sober. Then pay close attention to what's happening inside of your body and mind.
How are you feeling? Are you still able to relax, feel good and enjoy the moment? Or are you feeling bored, uncomfortable, and not able to "let yourself go"?
What are your thoughts telling you? Remember, it will say anything to get what it wants.
Can you even let 30 minutes pass without you having to constantly check your phone for how much time is left on the clock before you can drink?
Be honest with yourself. You are the only one who can know the truth.
**sorry for repost / update for community guidelines**
2023.06.01 09:34 Infiniterocket My girlfriend who I knew for almost a year left me and it has left me mentally damaged
We dated online for almost 3 months and we were very good friends for a year.. we considered each other as our best friend and everything started out great. We were gonna meet as soon as this summer or next year when we begin our college and had lots of plans..
We had an amazing start since we already knew each other for very long. we made 5 rules among each other. 1. Mutual respect 2. Always being there for each 3. No lying or cheating 4. Studies before anything 5. Giving time to the other person if needed... She was 1 year and 8 months elder than me and im 16, She had autism and sometimes didnt know what was right or wrong but that didnt stop me from loving or caring for her. I would research on it a lot and hopefully try to understand her better, I knew for a year so I knew what she liked. Those little details which made her happy and everything I could do for her. We used to play a lot of roblox together and talk a lot everyday
We had a few low points however. I got to know about her past and it involved her being in a fwb for a little bit with someone irl and some "action" involved last December but nothing big at all.. she didnt want it and was always asked for it so they did only a little.. It was hard for me because I had a pretty bad past too which leaves me with flashbacks about it and it took me time to let this process within me.. I had asked a lot of questions to her and I made her feel bad..I felt guilty about it because she didnt want it and she had gone through some stuff when she felt lonely and the worst part is that I was her friend during then and always told her that she could talk to me..I also felt really bad because I had feelings for her since last year summer and then I just didnt tell her...I could really help her out there because she told me I made her realize what she had done was very wrong and hated herself for it and she also swore on me that she had changed and it motivated me to help her out.
We got over it together in the end and she thought i felt disgusted by it, I did tell her once that I was but then apologized the next day and always reminded her that I still love her which grows day by day. This was online but I had real feelings for her and since we were already gonna meet as friends earlier I really thought of giving this a chance and committing to it and by the looks of it we were doing great..
Another low point was me becoming very upset when she called herself someones ekitten while being with me, She had his account for safekeeping and put it in his about me saying it. that "someone" also would not behave well with her, I just hated the way he would. I told her that it really made us look like a "joke" but she told me it was all in for jokes and well I just told them to not do it again.
But ofcourse it had happened again a few weeks later when we both were playing and that guy tries to "rizz" her saying welp, words which really made me specifically look like a bad partner and yeah I told her about it but didnt blame her for anything because she didnt do anything this time. I then told him to not behave like he does to her and he agreed to and that was the end.
Some context about us when we were friends. My parents arent the best sometimes and well give me a really hard time, I also have had 2nd thoughts of my career change where I need to change my subject in high school and thats another problem with me, secondly, Im not able to score well because of it and it really makes them angry. They understand sometimes but when they dont, theyre the worst and tell me a lot of words which demotivate me, they have even wished me not being there sometimes which really made me upset and the only person I used to talk to about this was her and she was always there and would help me. This is when I suddenly started having feelings more than ever for her and I knew I had to tell her. I did and we got together and everything was going great, I tried my best with keeping this and it looked like everything surely was going amazing. She was like the most beautiful person I met in my life and she really understood me a lot and I did too for her.
And well now comes the very hard part.. A month ago was my birthday and she made it very special and memorable and we spent a lot of time together. But that was like the last time we spent quality time because after that I was gone for a week due to my tests and another week for my career errands I had to deal with, I didnt play with her but talked to her saying that Id be there with her soon and just needed some time and she agreed.
On 11th I was almost done with it and came back from a school trip and checked my phone and well.. I saw a message from her saying that she doesnt think shes ready for a relationship and prefers us being as friends instead and well. And wanted to be single... To me that was a disaster, losing her was my biggest fear and I just was really attached to her, I told her to not jump to conclusions and well Im here now and we can work on what she feels and improve it. She told me that she lost the "feeling" and maybe had feelings for another girl. The worst part is that she thought she lost her freedom.. when I asked her about it she meant that she couldnt "fuck" her friends and I fucking cried when I read that message. She told me that it would be cheating if she did it while being with me, but it seemed like it already maybe was since she liked another girl while she was with me...I told her that fwb was NEVER a good thing because first of all her friends are terrible irl, whenever she talked about them to me it wasnt good, they dont respect her opinion or her will. I told her that she would be used by them even if it made her happy in the beginning because in the end when they start expecting more and leave her noone but HER would be the one devasted...they wouldnt even love her. She was very beautiful and smart and noone deserves to go through that. She even mentioned that I could be her fwb. But I told her that if she wanted to do it with me later on, I would only if we were together because I loved her a lot and wouldnt want to make her feel bad later on. I sent her voice messages explaining her everything and I was tearing up at the same time. I told her if thats what she wanted then she could just wait until we meet and Id do anything to make her feel happy..
That day was very bad for me. I became desperate because I didnt want her to suffer later on. I started messaging her friend who she was close to and tried to explain it to her. I even fucking went to the guy who I didnt like because of his behaviour explaining him the situation, because we had been cool after I told him to not do those anymore. but he instead made it worse, he told me I was giving way too much personal info about someone he didnt "care". But she had told me that he was a close friend but not that close apparently.. The most crazy part is he randomly asked me a picture of me which i said no to but is so fricking stupid considering he told me I give out personal info. I only told him the main things about her autism because I didnt want her to think shes crazy. I didnt badmouth her and only explained the situation in hopes of getting advice or help.. I didnt tell him what she was gonna do as a single. Instead of helping me he told HER and she thought I was backstabbing her..she called me insane and about the part that she lost feelings..
I told her losing feelings was common when you get to know the person more and that if we both worked together on it we can fix it, she included that our personalities didnt match but that is not true, we had similar interests, same taste in things and same opinions and we just got along in every single factor well. I told her that shes overthinking and should take it slow. She told me that she tried to keep this relationship by herself but I told her that trying to fix a relationship alone never works out unless both the people work on it together. When it came to her having feelings for a girl.. I asked her why because she was with me and that really seemed like her cheating on me..She told me more that the girl admitted to her and everything happened naturally because the 2 weeks I was gone they spent more time together. I told her why didnt she try to defend our relationship by saying no and instead focus on fixing it by talking to me
she told her that it wasn't her intention in the beginning to leave me. But it pretty much was obvious what would happen if she didnt try to defend us, I told her that not everything is lost and that I am here now and we can work on this together. I just needed that chance from her and I knew for a fact that it would work out because I knew her better than anyone after her family. She didnt give me that chance and kept saying she lost that feeling. I told her that I didnt want to force her to love me when she said so, I told her we could start fresh and work on this from the beginning. She didnt want to try it out.
The next day when I started losing hope I told her id become her fwb if thats what she wanted. My real reason for that is so that I could make her realize it and maybe change her to a better person. Maybe save our relationship too.. I didnt want to changer her decision but make her realize it herself. But then she suddenly became a follower of true love and told me that now she has genuine feelings towards that "girl" and wouldnt do those. But the worst part she told me after that is...
She hid from me that it was actually a BOY. She said she didnt tell me that one little "detail" I got furious and heartbroken at the same time..I didnt know what she had in mind but she sent me a pic of him and to be honest it made it funny and I felt a lil bad for her...But she hid so much from me, I told her that this is considered cheating even though I hate saying it and she told me it wasnt. At the same time I talked to her other friend who really understood me and knew that she was doing the wrong thing.. She told me a lot of bad things and I took them all in me and focused on trying to help her more.. the reason why we did so well was because we knew each other well. She was in 2 relationships infront of me as a friend and it started quickly and ended badly because they just didnt care for her. When we got together she told me that I was the "one" and she actually felt love for the first time... We really did great together and I genuinely loved her wholeheartedly . The worst part is that now she told me that felt "love" for the first time with HIM. That made no sense. This "new" person she liked, this was no different then the previous 2 relationships she was in. I feel like she just told me she'd stay single so she could later be with him.. I just dont know.
She told me that she removed her mask, I knew she had autism and told her why she did it and she agreed to it. I told her I understand her and the reason why I havent yelled at her or become rude is because I know this isnt how she is despite her telling me she removed her mask. She was the same as a friend and a partner. She then made me talk to him...the person she liked.
He was total garbage. I asked him why he didnt tell her to talk to me, he called it fucking "influencing". Said it as if he didnt make her like him instead. She is pretty sensitive and if someones gets in her mind its hard for her. I told her that SHE is the one being influenced here and she shouldnt do this.. She hated me for talking to her friends and called me insane and backstabbing. She told me she didnt wanna be friends anymore now. I knew her for a year and this was how everything was ending. She told me she didnt want to give me any problems and thats why she didnt say about her feeling to me.. I wouldnt get angry or upset because when it comes to us I really would dedicate to helping us..
All this time I talked to her I made a group with 3 of my close friends who would help me say what I should to her so that it makes a point and maybe helps her realize what shes doing. I talked calmly to her and really kept my cool even though in the other side I was crying over the fact that Im losing her. She had blocked me the first day because I panicked and sent her a lot of messages, I messaged her on WhatsApp telling her that what she is doing isnt right.. She told me she was trying to get feelings for me and I thought maybe things might work out and she added me back everywhere.. This was on the first day. But then she blocked me again sometime in between and then I talked to some mutual friends about what happened and every single one of them agreed that she had cheated on me and done something very bad by seperating from me. The next day she seemed furious and sent me messages saying Im lying to people about her cheating on me. I took some time and gave her a respone in a calm and straightforward way..I told her every fact I knew and she didnt talk back and told me she knows she hurt me.. I thought maybe I made her realize it but I didnt..She told me she talked about it to him about us, but she forgout one detail. HE WANTS HER TOO and theres something called a biased opinion, I know when she messaged me about me lying about her cheating those words were definetly those very biased opinion from him and when I talked to that person she liked...
He told me she never loved me and loved me out of pity. I knew he was fucking getting in my mind and lying because that wasnt true. He didnt know anything about how we were. She told it to me herself that it wasnt true about what he said, she just lost that feeling at a point..I even made her a letter a week ago for our 2nd month anniversary and she loved it so much.. This was when I was away and knew I had to do something. She kept telling me that she removed her mask.. I reasoned with her and she always talked to me in a bad way as if I was the wrong doer here.
One day I told her to say me about what she really felt and what problems she had.. she told me that she wasnt able to joke and she hinted to the fact that she called herself someones ekitten as a joke and she told me I didnt trust her. I apologized even though I told her it just didnt seem well.. I told her that she wont feel it that way again, She told me she wanted to well "sleep" or jokingly flirt with her friends which she couldnt do... I calmly explained her how it was wrong, she told me she knew she was a bad person and didnt want to change..she tried to. I told her she can because I see it in her.. she really was a caring person.. Her "mask" cant change that. When she opened up about what she felt I thought maybe things would work out but it didnt.. I even had give her a break for sometime in hopes of he maybe understanding but she always insisted on this.. I just cant watch her suffer later..I can confirm that I really love her a lot and would never do anything to hurt her..let alone watching her suffer.. I even mentioned that she had broken her own rules and maybe try to make things right now..
She kept asking me how I found her friends contact and everything. I answered her but she didnt answer me properly...I thought she might just leave me when she got her answers..I even asked her that and she replied with an "i dont know"..I knew this wasnt the "real" her and she clearly was being influenced by that guy. I was losing a lot of hope and when she told me that she just didnt want to do it anymore. As an act of me loving her and giving her whatever she wanted.. I let her do what she wanted.
I told her I wouldnt come in her way and I would still care for her like my own...I knew she didnt want to be friends with me anymore. I told her that despite me loving her she was also my best friend.. And if she ever needed me or changed her mind she could reach out to me. I knew this was not going to end well for me at all so I just gave her a goodbye and told her that she could do what she wanted to and that was block me...She just said "as you wish" and did it like we were nothing..She didnt say any goodbye and that was 10 days ago, Im alone now without any close friend because noone was like her. I worry everyday if she is alright and despite my life on the other side going terrible I just miss her a lot...I just cant believe she hates me so much now, I only did it because I didnt want to watch her suffer later. I trusted her a lot and she just broke my heart this way.. Before she blocked me I asked her to promise she wouldnt do anything bad like she told me before and she didnt promise it..I really hope she is doing alright now.
I really miss her a lot and the crazy part is despite what she did to me..I still love her because I know for a fact that this isnt her even though she says she removed her mask.. I knew her very well better than anyone. She was very beautiful and I just cant believe we seperated, she was my first love and deep inside I always hope she realizes what shes doing is wrong..Many people have called me insane this past week and Im starting to feel like I am. Im in really despair right now because of this one thing because she really motivated me a lot..
I have many ways to talk to her. But I just prefer not to..Its her birthday in a month and I really wish I could do something for her. Im in a terrible condition now and dont know what to do.. I just cant believe that this was how it ends or it really had to happen. It was just a problem in which if she talked to me it could be fixed. I hate that guy because he didnt even tell her to talk to me and called it "influencing" he literally took her away from me and doesnt think that is influencing. Ofcourse because he likes her too.. I cant believe that she actually believed him.. She just changed suddenly.. I told her about what was happening to me and also the fact that I wasnt able to sleep when I thought I was losing her and she told me that isnt her fault.. She was never like this
Its been 10 days and I really miss her a lot and everyday I just hope maybe she realizes it and reaches out to me. I told her Im ready to forgive her as long as she knows what she did was wrong and wants to become a better person and im more than ready to help her in it.. Im feeling very lonely since losing her, ive never cared for a person this much. I dont know what to feel of her... after what she did to me but I truly still care for her like my own. I just dont know what to do.
I get bad thoughts when I feel like everythings going downhill in my life. She really motivated me a lot. I trusted her more than anyone. She was just precious to me.. I think of her a lot everyday and I just cry every night because of this.. have trouble falling asleep and well as if this wasnt a big problem I got other very big things like my career change and well a lot of pressure on me. I dont know what to do. I feel like she took how I was to her for granted or i got replaced..Even though she told me she would stay single but she also likes someone so this just dont fit into it..I knew her for a year and this is very hard for me. I just cant believe that this happened..Im worried about her.
Thank you for reading this.. I dont know if I did anything wrong here.. is there anyway I can help her or is there any hopes of us ever coming back? or what I gotta do.. I tried my best because I care for her a lot.. I told her she could always reach out to me. I always wish we could get back because we were doing so well together..If she did have feelings towards me then it would certainly be worth starting over this time with everything improved and us understanding each other a lot better..I told her that too..I know that this isnt how she is. But im just so lost now.. I dont know what to do. I just want her to realize it, I dont want anything bad to happen to her..I really love her. Any advice is appreciated
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We had an amazing start since we already knew each other for very long. we made 5 rules among each other. 1. Mutual respect 2. Always being there for each 3. No lying or cheating 4. Studies before anything 5. Giving time to the other person if needed... She was 1 year and 8 months elder than me and im 16, She had autism and sometimes didnt know what was right or wrong but that didnt stop me from loving or caring for her. I would research on it a lot and hopefully try to understand her better, I knew for a year so I knew what she liked. Those little details which made her happy and everything I could do for her. We used to play a lot of roblox together and talk a lot everyday
We had a few low points however. I got to know about her past and it involved her being in a fwb for a little bit with someone irl and some "action" involved last December but nothing big at all.. she didnt want it and was always asked for it so they did only a little.. It was hard for me because I had a pretty bad past too which leaves me with flashbacks about it and it took me time to let this process within me.. I had asked a lot of questions to her and I made her feel bad..I felt guilty about it because she didnt want it and she had gone through some stuff when she felt lonely and the worst part is that I was her friend during then and always told her that she could talk to me..I also felt really bad because I had feelings for her since last year summer and then I just didnt tell her...I could really help her out there because she told me I made her realize what she had done was very wrong and hated herself for it and she also swore on me that she had changed and it motivated me to help her out.
We got over it together in the end and she thought i felt disgusted by it, I did tell her once that I was but then apologized the next day and always reminded her that I still love her which grows day by day. This was online but I had real feelings for her and since we were already gonna meet as friends earlier I really thought of giving this a chance and committing to it and by the looks of it we were doing great..
Another low point was me becoming very upset when she called herself someones ekitten while being with me, She had his account for safekeeping and put it in his about me saying it. that "someone" also would not behave well with her, I just hated the way he would. I told her that it really made us look like a "joke" but she told me it was all in for jokes and well I just told them to not do it again.
But ofcourse it had happened again a few weeks later when we both were playing and that guy tries to "rizz" her saying welp, words which really made me specifically look like a bad partner and yeah I told her about it but didnt blame her for anything because she didnt do anything this time. I then told him to not behave like he does to her and he agreed to and that was the end.
Some context about us when we were friends. My parents arent the best sometimes and well give me a really hard time, I also have had 2nd thoughts of my career change where I need to change my subject in high school and thats another problem with me, secondly, Im not able to score well because of it and it really makes them angry. They understand sometimes but when they dont, theyre the worst and tell me a lot of words which demotivate me, they have even wished me not being there sometimes which really made me upset and the only person I used to talk to about this was her and she was always there and would help me. This is when I suddenly started having feelings more than ever for her and I knew I had to tell her. I did and we got together and everything was going great, I tried my best with keeping this and it looked like everything surely was going amazing. She was like the most beautiful person I met in my life and she really understood me a lot and I did too for her.
And well now comes the very hard part.. A month ago was my birthday and she made it very special and memorable and we spent a lot of time together. But that was like the last time we spent quality time because after that I was gone for a week due to my tests and another week for my career errands I had to deal with, I didnt play with her but talked to her saying that Id be there with her soon and just needed some time and she agreed.
On 11th I was almost done with it and came back from a school trip and checked my phone and well.. I saw a message from her saying that she doesnt think shes ready for a relationship and prefers us being as friends instead and well. And wanted to be single... To me that was a disaster, losing her was my biggest fear and I just was really attached to her, I told her to not jump to conclusions and well Im here now and we can work on what she feels and improve it. She told me that she lost the "feeling" and maybe had feelings for another girl. The worst part is that she thought she lost her freedom.. when I asked her about it she meant that she couldnt "fuck" her friends and I fucking cried when I read that message. She told me that it would be cheating if she did it while being with me, but it seemed like it already maybe was since she liked another girl while she was with me...I told her that fwb was NEVER a good thing because first of all her friends are terrible irl, whenever she talked about them to me it wasnt good, they dont respect her opinion or her will. I told her that she would be used by them even if it made her happy in the beginning because in the end when they start expecting more and leave her noone but HER would be the one devasted...they wouldnt even love her. She was very beautiful and smart and noone deserves to go through that. She even mentioned that I could be her fwb. But I told her that if she wanted to do it with me later on, I would only if we were together because I loved her a lot and wouldnt want to make her feel bad later on. I sent her voice messages explaining her everything and I was tearing up at the same time. I told her if thats what she wanted then she could just wait until we meet and Id do anything to make her feel happy..
That day was very bad for me. I became desperate because I didnt want her to suffer later on. I started messaging her friend who she was close to and tried to explain it to her. I even fucking went to the guy who I didnt like because of his behaviour explaining him the situation, because we had been cool after I told him to not do those anymore. but he instead made it worse, he told me I was giving way too much personal info about someone he didnt "care". But she had told me that he was a close friend but not that close apparently.. The most crazy part is he randomly asked me a picture of me which i said no to but is so fricking stupid considering he told me I give out personal info. I only told him the main things about her autism because I didnt want her to think shes crazy. I didnt badmouth her and only explained the situation in hopes of getting advice or help.. I didnt tell him what she was gonna do as a single. Instead of helping me he told HER and she thought I was backstabbing her..she called me insane and about the part that she lost feelings..
I told her losing feelings was common when you get to know the person more and that if we both worked together on it we can fix it, she included that our personalities didnt match but that is not true, we had similar interests, same taste in things and same opinions and we just got along in every single factor well. I told her that shes overthinking and should take it slow. She told me that she tried to keep this relationship by herself but I told her that trying to fix a relationship alone never works out unless both the people work on it together. When it came to her having feelings for a girl.. I asked her why because she was with me and that really seemed like her cheating on me..She told me more that the girl admitted to her and everything happened naturally because the 2 weeks I was gone they spent more time together. I told her why didnt she try to defend our relationship by saying no and instead focus on fixing it by talking to me
she told her that it wasn't her intention in the beginning to leave me. But it pretty much was obvious what would happen if she didnt try to defend us, I told her that not everything is lost and that I am here now and we can work on this together. I just needed that chance from her and I knew for a fact that it would work out because I knew her better than anyone after her family. She didnt give me that chance and kept saying she lost that feeling. I told her that I didnt want to force her to love me when she said so, I told her we could start fresh and work on this from the beginning. She didnt want to try it out.
The next day when I started losing hope I told her id become her fwb if thats what she wanted. My real reason for that is so that I could make her realize it and maybe change her to a better person. Maybe save our relationship too.. I didnt want to changer her decision but make her realize it herself. But then she suddenly became a follower of true love and told me that now she has genuine feelings towards that "girl" and wouldnt do those. But the worst part she told me after that is...
She hid from me that it was actually a BOY. She said she didnt tell me that one little "detail" I got furious and heartbroken at the same time..I didnt know what she had in mind but she sent me a pic of him and to be honest it made it funny and I felt a lil bad for her...But she hid so much from me, I told her that this is considered cheating even though I hate saying it and she told me it wasnt. At the same time I talked to her other friend who really understood me and knew that she was doing the wrong thing.. She told me a lot of bad things and I took them all in me and focused on trying to help her more.. the reason why we did so well was because we knew each other well. She was in 2 relationships infront of me as a friend and it started quickly and ended badly because they just didnt care for her. When we got together she told me that I was the "one" and she actually felt love for the first time... We really did great together and I genuinely loved her wholeheartedly . The worst part is that now she told me that felt "love" for the first time with HIM. That made no sense. This "new" person she liked, this was no different then the previous 2 relationships she was in. I feel like she just told me she'd stay single so she could later be with him.. I just dont know.
She told me that she removed her mask, I knew she had autism and told her why she did it and she agreed to it. I told her I understand her and the reason why I havent yelled at her or become rude is because I know this isnt how she is despite her telling me she removed her mask. She was the same as a friend and a partner. She then made me talk to him...the person she liked.
He was total garbage. I asked him why he didnt tell her to talk to me, he called it fucking "influencing". Said it as if he didnt make her like him instead. She is pretty sensitive and if someones gets in her mind its hard for her. I told her that SHE is the one being influenced here and she shouldnt do this.. She hated me for talking to her friends and called me insane and backstabbing. She told me she didnt wanna be friends anymore now. I knew her for a year and this was how everything was ending. She told me she didnt want to give me any problems and thats why she didnt say about her feeling to me.. I wouldnt get angry or upset because when it comes to us I really would dedicate to helping us..
All this time I talked to her I made a group with 3 of my close friends who would help me say what I should to her so that it makes a point and maybe helps her realize what shes doing. I talked calmly to her and really kept my cool even though in the other side I was crying over the fact that Im losing her. She had blocked me the first day because I panicked and sent her a lot of messages, I messaged her on WhatsApp telling her that what she is doing isnt right.. She told me she was trying to get feelings for me and I thought maybe things might work out and she added me back everywhere.. This was on the first day. But then she blocked me again sometime in between and then I talked to some mutual friends about what happened and every single one of them agreed that she had cheated on me and done something very bad by seperating from me. The next day she seemed furious and sent me messages saying Im lying to people about her cheating on me. I took some time and gave her a respone in a calm and straightforward way..I told her every fact I knew and she didnt talk back and told me she knows she hurt me.. I thought maybe I made her realize it but I didnt..She told me she talked about it to him about us, but she forgout one detail. HE WANTS HER TOO and theres something called a biased opinion, I know when she messaged me about me lying about her cheating those words were definetly those very biased opinion from him and when I talked to that person she liked...
He told me she never loved me and loved me out of pity. I knew he was fucking getting in my mind and lying because that wasnt true. He didnt know anything about how we were. She told it to me herself that it wasnt true about what he said, she just lost that feeling at a point..I even made her a letter a week ago for our 2nd month anniversary and she loved it so much.. This was when I was away and knew I had to do something. She kept telling me that she removed her mask.. I reasoned with her and she always talked to me in a bad way as if I was the wrong doer here.
One day I told her to say me about what she really felt and what problems she had.. she told me that she wasnt able to joke and she hinted to the fact that she called herself someones ekitten as a joke and she told me I didnt trust her. I apologized even though I told her it just didnt seem well.. I told her that she wont feel it that way again, She told me she wanted to well "sleep" or jokingly flirt with her friends which she couldnt do... I calmly explained her how it was wrong, she told me she knew she was a bad person and didnt want to change..she tried to. I told her she can because I see it in her.. she really was a caring person.. Her "mask" cant change that. When she opened up about what she felt I thought maybe things would work out but it didnt.. I even had give her a break for sometime in hopes of he maybe understanding but she always insisted on this.. I just cant watch her suffer later..I can confirm that I really love her a lot and would never do anything to hurt her..let alone watching her suffer.. I even mentioned that she had broken her own rules and maybe try to make things right now..
She kept asking me how I found her friends contact and everything. I answered her but she didnt answer me properly...I thought she might just leave me when she got her answers..I even asked her that and she replied with an "i dont know"..I knew this wasnt the "real" her and she clearly was being influenced by that guy. I was losing a lot of hope and when she told me that she just didnt want to do it anymore. As an act of me loving her and giving her whatever she wanted.. I let her do what she wanted.
I told her I wouldnt come in her way and I would still care for her like my own...I knew she didnt want to be friends with me anymore. I told her that despite me loving her she was also my best friend.. And if she ever needed me or changed her mind she could reach out to me. I knew this was not going to end well for me at all so I just gave her a goodbye and told her that she could do what she wanted to and that was block me...She just said "as you wish" and did it like we were nothing..She didnt say any goodbye and that was 10 days ago, Im alone now without any close friend because noone was like her. I worry everyday if she is alright and despite my life on the other side going terrible I just miss her a lot...I just cant believe she hates me so much now, I only did it because I didnt want to watch her suffer later. I trusted her a lot and she just broke my heart this way.. Before she blocked me I asked her to promise she wouldnt do anything bad like she told me before and she didnt promise it..I really hope she is doing alright now.
I really miss her a lot and the crazy part is despite what she did to me..I still love her because I know for a fact that this isnt her even though she says she removed her mask.. I knew her very well better than anyone. She was very beautiful and I just cant believe we seperated, she was my first love and deep inside I always hope she realizes what shes doing is wrong..Many people have called me insane this past week and Im starting to feel like I am. Im in really despair right now because of this one thing because she really motivated me a lot..
I have many ways to talk to her. But I just prefer not to..Its her birthday in a month and I really wish I could do something for her. Im in a terrible condition now and dont know what to do.. I just cant believe that this was how it ends or it really had to happen. It was just a problem in which if she talked to me it could be fixed. I hate that guy because he didnt even tell her to talk to me and called it "influencing" he literally took her away from me and doesnt think that is influencing. Ofcourse because he likes her too.. I cant believe that she actually believed him.. She just changed suddenly.. I told her about what was happening to me and also the fact that I wasnt able to sleep when I thought I was losing her and she told me that isnt her fault.. She was never like this
Its been 10 days and I really miss her a lot and everyday I just hope maybe she realizes it and reaches out to me. I told her Im ready to forgive her as long as she knows what she did was wrong and wants to become a better person and im more than ready to help her in it.. Im feeling very lonely since losing her, ive never cared for a person this much. I dont know what to feel of her... after what she did to me but I truly still care for her like my own. I just dont know what to do.
I get bad thoughts when I feel like everythings going downhill in my life. She really motivated me a lot. I trusted her more than anyone. She was just precious to me.. I think of her a lot everyday and I just cry every night because of this.. have trouble falling asleep and well as if this wasnt a big problem I got other very big things like my career change and well a lot of pressure on me. I dont know what to do. I feel like she took how I was to her for granted or i got replaced..Even though she told me she would stay single but she also likes someone so this just dont fit into it..I knew her for a year and this is very hard for me. I just cant believe that this happened..Im worried about her.
Thank you for reading this.. I dont know if I did anything wrong here.. is there anyway I can help her or is there any hopes of us ever coming back? or what I gotta do.. I tried my best because I care for her a lot.. I told her she could always reach out to me. I always wish we could get back because we were doing so well together..If she did have feelings towards me then it would certainly be worth starting over this time with everything improved and us understanding each other a lot better..I told her that too..I know that this isnt how she is. But im just so lost now.. I dont know what to do. I just want her to realize it, I dont want anything bad to happen to her..I really love her. Any advice is appreciated
2023.06.01 08:50 The_Fool_Arcana0000 "DESCEND TO DARKNESS!!!" -Jeanne D'Arc Bayonetta 4 Prologue: "Hell on Earth" Plot Outline Part III Finale (2/2)
Disclaimer: I do not own Bayonetta in any shape or form. It belongs to Sega and Platinum and is published by Nintendo. Moving on, if you believe Bayonetta 1-3 are considered adult, insane, and over-the-top, then prepare yourself because this outline will go full throttle and hold nothing back. The plot outlines that I have planned for "Bayonetta 4" will be insane and push boundaries that I don't think any Bayonetta game has done thus far in absurdity and graphic violence. So please, prepare yourself for the insanity that is about to unfold before reading.
Bayonetta 4 Compendium
Prologue Part III Finale (2/2):
Heaven's Feel: The Outbreak of War Begins
The screen pans out to reveal multiple Sin Demons in the distance headed towards the aircraft, some even materializing on the very roof that the duo stood on.
"Are those-?!" Jeanne questioned, mouth agape.
"Sin Demons" Viola interrupts.
"They're all Sin Demons. I don't how or why, but if they get in our way, we cut them down!"
"Alright then, I suppose that this moment calls for special back up," Jeanne declared, turning her hips to summon a Umbran headset.
It was time to talk with the pilot.
"Enzo, I think you've earned a reward for having followed all of my orders-! I'll be granting you full access to all the missiles on this lovely slayer of mine!"
She then raised her left hand all the way up, sassily snapping her fingers.
VOOSH!
The screen shows multiple missile launchers loaded with AGM-114 Hellfire's springing out from the sides of the aircraft as well as the undercarriage opening, revealing a huge, M134 Machine Gun.
Enzo's voice could be heard panicking from the headset.
"What the FUCK?! I don't know how-!"
"There's a small pamphlet underneath your seat with all the necessary instructions. Read that and you'll be learning in no time!" Jeanne elegantly retorted.
Enzo grumbled to himself, scrambling to find the pamphlet. It was either that or death via plane crash.
Heaven's Feel: The Outbreak of War Ends
Heaven's Feel: Come on, Make your Move Begins
The screen cuts to Jeanne and Viola, readying themselves for battle!
The Sin Demons on the roof have fully materialized, taking their first few steps before shrieking at the duo.
The Book of Infernal Demons then appears on screen, revealing new entries: "Devourer of Will: Sin Apathy", "Wailer of Lament: Sin Despair", "Feaster of Petrification: Sin Fury", and "Husk of Boundless Animosity: Sin Spite".
Sin Apathy: It has a male, pitch-black body with draconic features, red eyes, and a black miasma surrounding it. It is able to stretch out it arms and use its venom-covered claws to dig into its enemies, inflicting a special poison capable of draining its victims will to live and organ failure.
Sin Despair: It has a tall, abnormally thin, female figure, with pale skin, dirty white hair, red eyes, and long red claws. It is constantly wailing and crying tears of blood from its torn-off face and becomes unhinged when approached. It is a vicious killing machine that uses ultra-sonic screams, and endlessly swipes at its enemies with its claws.
Sin Fury: It is a wyvern now, capable of releasing poisoned, black thorns that makes its enemy sluggish. Moreover, they're able to traverse through its environment at faster speeds because of their large wings. Lastly, its eye has been enhanced, being able to release magical shots that can permanently petrify opponents.
Sin Spite: It has a tall, bulky, male figure, with small, red wings, a long red tail, and red, scaley-skin. Additionally, it carries a golden trident capable of releasing waves of energy. It has black eyes and is able to gape its mouth at terrifying degrees, revealing the multitude of sharp teeth that it uses to chomp it enemies.
The book then closes before heading straight for the camera, cutting back to Jeanne and Viola.
Their backs are side-to-side as they pass through blood-red, demon-infested skies!
"We've got work to do!!" Jeanne screamed, summoning All 4 One!
"I couldn't have said it better myself!!"Viola yells, taking out Mab Dachi from its scabbard on her back.
Heaven's Feel: Come on, Make your Move Ends
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Metal
The screen then shows the duo separate to fight their own enemies.
Jeanne is lunged upon by four Sin Despairs in the air. They intend to gouge her eyes out and dismember her limb-by-limb!
"You bitches think you've got a chance?! Then so be it!!" she yelled, shooting multiple charge shots at them!
Almost all of them were disoriented, but one had dodged all the bullets, going ahead of the rest to kill Jeanne. However, it was met with an unexpected Heel Stomp from Jeanne that smacked it from above and onto the ground!
"You ugly bitch!" Jeanne yelled, running to the Sin Demon before using Combo 15!
During this, Jeanne was continuously pistol whipping the Sin Despair, releasing a Wicked Weave that knocked the demon up into the air before following it up with a devastating Wicked Weave that kicked it off the roof!
Despite this, Jeanne was not out of the clear as other Sin Despairs had regained their balance, now closing the gap with her as they prepared an ultra-sonic scream!
"HAAAA!!!"
"Shut the FUCK UP!" Jeanne retorted, jumping into the air before using Concussion Step to slam their asses to the side!
After that, she used Blink Charge to reach one of four Sin Fury's flying in the air, gracefully Air Kicking it down. However, when she landed on the floor, two of them descended upon her, shooting out balls of purple energy from their eyes!
"Hah! You worthless vermin!" Jeanne taunted, dodging at the last second before transforming into a kettle of red moths.
Ding!
Witch Time was now active as the colors of environment became a transparent purple and Jeanne sped up.
First, she used Full Moon Shoot to launch the Sin Fury that she knocked down into the air before using Tetsuzanko to push it towards the two Sin Fury's headed towards her. Then, she used Blink Charge again to reach that same demon, using Astounding Touch to kill the three with multiple punches!
Afterwards, she quickly used Heel Stomp on the remaining Sin Fury to get it onto the floor before using Gut Wrench Heel to finish it off!
FWOOSH!
Witch Time had ended as the colors of environment returned to normal and Jeanne landed on the floor.
The screen then showed five Sin Spites releasing spouts of red water from their mouths towards Jeanne!
However, she remained calm and poised, leaping into the air to avoid the oncoming explosions before yelling aloud with a powerful pose!
"ZILDAR VPAAH!"
Suddenly, a demonic bird had pierced clouds in the sky before descending onto the roof of the aircraft, opening its massive wings. It released a gust of wind that sent multiple Sin Spites flying backwards!
"So much for 'Sin Demon', how pathetic!" Jeanne laughed, gently touching Malphas as he vanished into particles.
The screen then cut to the front of the aircraft to show missiles being launched at Sin Demons in the sky, resulting in a never-ending number of explosions. Meanwhile, the M134 Machine Gun, was gunning down multiple Sin Demons that approached the aircraft!
Enzo is then shown in the pilot's seat growling as he pressed multiple buttons.
"TASTE THIS MOTHERFUCKERS!!"
BOOSH!
BOOSH!
BRRRRRT!!!
As for Viola, she was dealing with her own set of enemies.
Three Sin Spite's had released turquoise, diagonal slashes of energy towards her from their tridents in the air!
"Not on my watch!" she yelled, jumping into the air to avoid the attack.
She then used Shredder to reach the Sin Spite in the middle, quickly using After Burner Kick to stun it. Afterwards, she jumped on its body, going directly above it to use Star in the Black.
"These fuckers have nothing on me!" she excitedly yelled, releasing a barrage of darts that exploded on impact!
BOOM!
The Sin Spite's went down hard as the explosion damaged their wings!
Viola then aimed Mab Dachi downward, readily preparing her next attack!
"Time to die, baby!" she shouted, using Hungry Hi-Hat as she landed onto the roof of the aircraft, puncturing it with her katana!
Cheshire's ginormous head was seen coming out from a demonic portal and straight into the air! He had a devilish grin on his face, mouth drooling at the sight of the delicious feast that Viola had prepared for him!
The screen then cuts to three Sin Spites comedically trying to avoid his mouth. However, all attempts failed as his mouth grew wider in size. Afterall, Sin Demons were "beyond a delicacy" in Inferno, Cheshire thought. He didn't know when he would be able to devour one again. So, he wouldn't let a single drop of blood go to waste as the Sin Spites landed into his hypnotic mouth.
CRUNCH!!
CRUNCH!!
GULP!
Cheshire is seen wiping blood off his lips with joy before disappearing into particles.
Afterwards, Viola heads towards Mab Dachi, pulling it out from the roof before feeling a sudden stinging sensation on her back.
In response, she quickly does a back walkover, turning her head mid-air to see a Sin Despair.
"Jeez, these guys are aggressive!" she thought.
She then proceeded to sweep kick the Sin Despair, seeing it fall flat on its face before using Tom Tom Balloon to launch it in air!
Then she used Combo 11, following it up with a perfectly timed Bass Boost that thrusted the Sin Demon onto a group of Sin Apathy's as they stretched their hands towards Viola.
"I don't think so, assholes!"
CRASH!
All the Sin Demons were knocked down onto the floor. However, Viola wasn't done, Cheshire still had to have his fun.
"CHESHIRE!" she shouted, throwing Mab Dachi onto the floor.
A huge portal then formed from where the Katana landed. Cheshire emerging from it soon after!
He looked onward at the sight with jubilation before making a tall jump in the air. All he needed was one good pounce to end these Sin Demons!
So, he readied a new attack, Blue Tenka (点火). He would engulf himself with blue flames, turning into a ticking time bomb that would detonate the second he slammed onto something. Now, it would render him temporarily unavailable as he would die. However, his knack for theatrics made him want to take out his enemies with a bang.
”Knock'em them dead, Cheshire!” Viola screamed.
The screen then showed the Sin Despair and group of Sin Apathy looking at Cheshire’s ignited body with horror as he drew closer to them.
All Cheshire could do was look at their faces was a cheeky grin.
“It's over for these chumps!” he thought.
BOOM!!
A multitude of Sin Apathy’s flew off of the aircraft while others suffered a most horrible execution.
“Woo-hoo!” Viola cheered, giving Cheshire a thumbs up before running towards Mab Dachi to regroup with Jeanne.
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Ends
Heaven's Feel: He goes, She goes Begins
The screen begins to pan out from the aircraft, revealing that the trio was within proximity to the red creature. However, the atmosphere was becoming more unnervingly tense, the closer they got.
Furthermore, Jeanne and Viola were surprised when they saw various Sin Demons emerging from the red creature. It was almost as if the creature itself was a conductor of sorts, serving as an alternative to the Human World than those of the Gates.
Eerily enough, however, there was another situation at hand as hordes of Sin Demons had ceased to pursue them and were retreating.
The screen shows all the Sin Demons heads towards to the creature before getting into a strange formation and flying in place. They were now facing the trio with stoic expressions and readied battle stances.
"This behavior is... unnatural, especially for that of a demon. Why are they acting as its guards?" Jeanne questioned.
"Do they not want us to reach that thing all the way in the back that badly?" Viola replied.
Despite this, the duo became more preoccupied the entities head, realizing how it was solely focused on them. The Golem mask had no eyes, but the red Core at the center was shifting to indicate that it was looking at the aircraft.
Viola couldn't help but feel shivers down her spine at the unsettling sight.
"Jesus Christ... What the hell is all this?" Viola yelped, gasping at the sight.
As for Jeanne, she didn't know what to make of the situation. She was too busy analyzing the entity as best she could and was stunned by what she was saw at the very top. It was a golem, one that had shaped itself into that of a mask.
"What is this thing? I've never seen anything like it. Let alone the fact that it uses a Golem. However, that shouldn't be possible. Not without-! "
GARGLE!
GARGLE!
Heaven's Feel: He goes, She goes Ends
Heavens Feel: What Else, We Can Do? Begins
The screen shows to the shocked expressions of the duo as the entity began charging up an attack. Its body began to repeat the motion of an ocean wave. Then, a huge, demonic portal appeared from above the creature!
As a result, the two began feeling a strange sensation in their stomach's before starting to gag and fall on the floor. They felt their vision begin to blur, a loud ringing sound in their ears, and magic being sapped from their bodies.
"What is...happening?!" Viola sputtered, trying to cover her ears with her hands.
"Ugghh! This damned...monster!" Jeanne coughed out, hearing disconnected spurts of a distorted, female voice chanting in Enochian.
"DO O IA █ █ █ █ █ █... EGELIRCAS ECIFIRCAS... FAFEN NIIS!!!"
The screen then cut to the entity becoming a vibrant red before thin, slime tentacles emerged from its body, lengthening in size as they soar to multiple Sin Demons, touching their backs and merging with them!
The screen then cut to a Sin Insidious glowing a shiny red before growing even larger in size as red, metallic armor encased it.
The distorted female voice could be heard giggling before fading away, along with the demonic portal.
The screen then shows the terrifying face of a Sacrilege Insidious before cutting to the Book of Infernal Demons opening. It turned all the way to the end, revealing that page entries have been ripped off. The book closes thereafter as it cuts to the duo.
Suddenly, a loud screeching could be heard from all the Sacrilege Demons as they beamed towards the aircraft, making their way to it!
Meanwhile, Enzo remained unaffected by the strange sickness inflicted upon Jeanne and Viola, becoming distraught at the sight. He was screaming at the top of his lungs by what he was witnessing!
So, he began to check up on Jeanne and Viola, hearing them groaning in agony.
"Are you guys, ok?!! Jeanne?! Viola?! Answer me dammit, please!!" he shouted.
"We have to get OUT OF HERE!!"
The two were beginning to stand up as the pain in their stomachs subsided now that the voice was gone.
"Ugh! That was awful..." Viola said, picking herself up before looking at the entity.
"AAAAHHHH!!!" she shrieked, voice cracking as she stared at the Sacrilege Demons headed towards them!
"We have to get out of here*-*!"
Heavens Feel: What Else, We Can Do? Ends
The All-American Rejects: Real World Begins
"No! This is where we make our final stand Viola! The lives that have been lost can't be for naught!! This ends now!!" Jeanne interrupts, declaring her intentions before striking a pose, uniform coming undone!
"BRANSG ZUMVI!!!"
A portal appeared on the roof as a torrent of her hair went into it. Then, another portal formed in front of the aircraft as a huge, vicious turtle began pulling itself out of the portal.
The screen then cuts to the Book of Infernal Demons. It opens up to reveal one of Jeanne's new allies, "Deceiver of the Seas: Aspidochelone". It is a humongous, ungodly looking, dark-green turtle with a spiked shell, razor-sharp teeth, and black eyes.
"Go as fast as you can Enzo! It's time to go FULL THROTTLE!!!" she shrieked into her microphone.
Suddenly, the aircraft began accelerating to absurd speeds as a demonic portal beneath the demon disappeared and was replaced with an Umbran portal. This, in conjunction with the speed at which the aircraft went, kept the demon in place.
However, Jeanne wasn’t done yet. At the snap of her fingers, the Umbran portal began rapidly spinning, turning the demon into a makeshift drill. One that would ram down all the Sacrilege Demons that stood in their way!
She then began instructing Enzo to avoid a place crash.
"Follow my orders Enzo! If I say 'up' you go up, if I say 'left' you go left. Got that?!"
"YES!!" he obediently responded.
"Good!" Jeanne replied, turning to face a surprised Viola.
"As for you Viola, you're going to need to hold on tight!" she said, making a dramatic pose before staring at the red creature in the distance.
"If these mothafuckas won't give us an opening, then I'll make my own!!"
The screen then pans out in a manner similar to Space Harrier, showing the aircraft flying towards the red entity as Aspidochelone mowed down various Sacrilege Demons.
Meanwhile, Jeanne was making dramatic quotes as she ordered Enzo to move all throughout the sky, bobbing and weaving as she delivered Wicked Weaves with Madama Styx in a QTE to knockback Sacrilege Demons that approached the aircraft from its sides. As for Viola and Enzo, they were hanging on for dear life, wondering how Bayonetta and Jeanne did this for years on end.
Eventually, they reach the boss at the end, Sacrilege Insidious. He was more deadly than before, but Jeanne was not one to back down from a fight no matter how strong an enemy was.
It began to shoot ginormous, red lasers from the ends of its six wings towards the aircraft, all of which were dodged at the last second thanks to Jeanne's masterful instructions, leading to Witch Time.
Jeanne then closed the gap between the aircraft and the abhorrent demon to pierce its large, third eye.
This cycle would repeat itself until six eyeballs, each belonging to one wing, would start attacking the aircraft. In this case, when one eye approached, Enzo would use the aircraft's missiles and minigun to briefly stun the eye.
Afterwards, Jeanne would use multiple Wicked Weaves to punch the eye before ripping it from its socket and crushing it a gush of blood.
Later, when the last eyeball was removed, Jeanne figured that it would be a good time to end the monstrosity for good!
"Viola! What I'm about to do is very dangerous, I need you to protect me at all costs!" she shouted at a nauseous Viola.
"Yes Jeanne!" Viola replied, hands on her knees as she tried to keep her body standing.
Thankfully, she recovered in time, taking out Mab Dachi and preparing herself for enemies.
"Hopefully this will end all the shit that's been going on" she thought.
The screen then cuts to Jeanne as she prepares herself for the Demon Sin Ritual, Aspidochelone vanishing soon after.
"DO O IA JEANNE. CNILA D COMSELHA ODO ANANAEL. TURBS C BABLON ZONAC CIAOFI BALZARG. FAFEN NIIS!!" she screams, ripping her heart out as her costume comes undone.
She then begins to dance in a sensual manner, breaking it down and doing a split.
The All-American Rejects: Real World Ends
Bayonetta 3: Queen Magick Begins
Suddenly, a giant portal appears from behind the aircraft!
Queen Styx was then seen flying out of it with her butterfly wings in a horizontal manner, making her way towards the Sacrilege Insidious!
It was in that moment that a QTE appeared. Queen Styx began brutally pummeling the Sacrilege Insidious with her fists, gouging it large, third eye with both of her hands!
Then, she would begin tearing the Sacrilege Demon apart, ripping it in half!
PSSHH!!
The Sacrilege Insidious cried out its last breath by dying. However, Queen Styx was far from done from done!
She would use this opportunity to strike the red creature with the remains of the demon she killed!
Queen Styx slammed the slabs of meat against the red entity!
BAM!
BOOSH!!
The screen shows the creature remain standing, but its body was viciously trembling now. The core was now eyeing Queen Styx with hatred as she began taunting it with a stylish dance, ending off with a dramatic pose.
So, it began sending even more Sacrilege Demons towards her as she got up from the floor and began charging a purple Kamehameha. The Sacrilege Demons began picking away at Queen Styx's skin, but she didn't care. Jeanne gave her an order and she will follow it through to the end.
"KA...ME...HA...ME...HAAA!!!!" Queen Styx screamed, unleashing a humongous ray of energy close to point-blank range!
All that could be seen now was a gigantic, purple explosion eviscerating the red creature in its entirety, leaving behind an immense black mark on the ground as clouds of smoke and fire billowed in the air.
Or, at least, that was what Jeanne had hoped for...
Bayonetta 3: Queen Magick Ends
Heavens Feel: I Beg You (Instrumental) Begins
The red creature remained untouched…
The attack had failed to leave even a single dent on it!
Jeanne was left aghast at the site!
"How could it have failed?" she quietly stated, shock overwhelming her.
She started going pale, almost falling to the floor before Viola caught her in her time.
"It failed. I failed..." Jeanne repeated to herself over and over again.
"Jeanne! You have to snap out of it! Please!!" Viola cried out, voice going unheard.
In the Platinum Witch's mind, all she could think about was how one of her strongest attacks had failed. How Cereza, her best friend, her Umbran sister, would have overcome the fear that entered her body the moment she heard about Sacrilege Demons. How Cereza would have taken out the monstrosity with a blaze of glory. Not making a single mistake in the process. Cereza would not have failed the way she did!
"Cer...e...za..." Jeanne stuttered in a dream-like state.
All Viola could do was hold her as she stared at the escalating situation between Queen Styx and the red creature.
It had gone awry the moment Jeanne stopped dancing. Troops of Sacrilege Demons had begun attacking a vulnerable Queen Styx and feasting on her flesh!
She tried to wave them away with her arms but was overwhelmed. Moreover, two Sacrilege Insidious had emerged from the red entity, ready for revenge after Queen Styx slaughtered one of its brethren.
They released red lasers from the ends of their wings, striking her in the face!
"AAAHHH!!" she cried out, pools of blood pouring from her eyes as the lasers permanently blinded her.
However, it was this scream that snapped Jeanne out of her state. She began raising herself off the floor with Viola's help before looking on with terror, realizing that she had to do something now or risk Queen Styx dying!
"You bastards!! You'll PAY for this!!!" she shouted, gripping her heart even tighter and dancing with vigor.
Queen Styx was rejuvenated with strength and began to blindly claw away at her enemies with her nails with excessive force. She even attempted to use Royal Escort to keep some of the enemies at bay.
However, she was quickly stung by one of the tails of a Sacrilege Insidious, interrupting her attack.
This did not go unnoticed by the red entity as it decided to take advantage of the situation.
First, it released a red force field from its body, spreading throughout the vicinity before fading away.
Viola had noticed this, seeing the Sacrilege Demon become enraged.
"Great! As if shit wasn't bad enough already!" she complained.
Afterwards, the creature began using the slime beneath Queen Styx to shoot out immense slime tentacles to immobilize her.
One had immediately come out from behind, wrapping itself around her neck and pulling back with tremendous force!
She groaned in agony, startled by the sudden attack. However, the red creature wasn't done yet.
Queen Styx was struck again by other tentacles from all angles!
Two had latched themselves around her wrists while another four enveloped her waist, pulling her down and onto her knees.
"AAAHHH!!" she moaned, Sacrilege Demons eating away alive!
Jeanne was infuriated at the sight, gritting her teeth with such force that she could feel some break!
She would do everything possible to free Queen Styx and proceeded to screech the loudest she ever had!
"DESCEND TO DARKNESS!!!"
Her dancing became more rigorous and provocative than ever before as panic seeped into her body, painfully invigorating her muscles to free Queen Styx!
The screen then cut to Queen Styx resisting the restraints, managing to crush the tentacles on her wrists with her hands.
She was beginning to set herself free now. Things were finally turning up for her.
Heavens Feel: I Beg You (Instrumental) Ends
Ferry Corsten: Fire (Mike on Fire Ver.) Begins at 0:55
Meanwhile, Viola was left to deal with various Sacrilege Demons were able to land on the aircraft.
She was exhausted beyond belief but knew that she had to fight. It was that or have her soul mercilessly consumed. So, readied Mab Dachi and goes to strike a Sacrilege Fury.
However, the katana bounced off the demon as if it were invulnerable, leaving no mark on it.
"Holy shit! What are these guys made of?! " She exclaims, switching to her pistols before shooting the Sacrilege Fury.
DING!
TANG!
CLACK!
All of the bullets had ricocheted off the armor of the Sacrilege Fury.
Viola stared at the uninjured Sacrilege Demon with hopelessness, looking around as more began to surround her and Jeanne. However, she remembered would happen if she faltered now.
"Who will protect Jeanne if I'm down for the count?! Everything is riding on me now! I have to act quick or risk everything falling apart!" she thought.
So, Viola deciding that it was now time to use her fairy form, taking Mab Dachi out.
"Daddy, please give me strength!" she pleaded, stabbing herself in the stomach!
The screen then pans out to reveal a blinding light engulf Viola before revealing new fairy design. Her fur body was a mauve purple while her long hair was a seashell pink color. Furthermore, the stained-glass on her body were shades of the colors red, pink, and yellow. Lastly, the stained glass from her face was now gone and refitted as a gorgeous diadem on her forehead.
"It's time to get down to business!" she shouted, teleporting through various Sacrilege Demons to get to the middle of the roof before using Combo 2 to stun lock all of them at once!
Then, she teleported again to reach a Sin Fury in the air, using Combo 1 to stagger it before jumping off of its body to show off a new move, Crystal Drive.
The screen shows Viola create a large crystal in her hands with magic before throwing it down into the ground, impaling a Sacrilege Demon onto the floor. This is a process that she would repeat multiple times, sporadically teleporting from place to place and striking at different angles. However, it would all be aimed at the spot that she first struck.
Lastly, we see her teleport to the position that she first threw a crystal (briefly winking at the camera) before creating another crystal, one larger than the rest, and throwing it down to deal the finishing blow!
BOOM!
CRASH!!
The sounds of glass breaking could be heard as the impact from the last crystal caused a white explosion that sent multiple Sacrilege Demons off the roof!
”How’d you like that?!" Viola taunted, satisfied with herself.
Despite this, some Sacrilege Spites and Apathy’s had remained on the roof, but it wasn’t something that Viola couldn’t handle.
So, she teleported to one of the Sin Spites before having to dodge in the nick of time.
“Perfect!” She thought, preparing to make use of Witch Time.
Except, there was no Witch Time...
“What the-!” she shouted, faltering in attack before a Sacrilege Spite slammed her with its large tail.
Ferry Corsten: Fire (Mike on Fire Ver.) Ends
H. O. T. D: 07 Pursuit Begins
The attack was so strong that it deactivated Viola’s transformation and sent her flying towards Jeanne, knocking her down and onto the side the aircraft!
They were now hanging onto the aircraft’s railings as Sacrilege Demons began inching closer to them, resulting in the aircraft tilting to the side.
Enzo could even be heard yelling through the Jeanne’s microphone.
”What the hell is going on?! Why is this fucking thing TILTING?!” he raged, questions going unanswered.
Jeanne and Viola were now dangling on the plane's railing, arguing with each other.
"VIOLA!" Jeanne angrily yelled, grabbing onto the railing with her left hand and wrapping her right arm over it. She still had her heart in her hand and didn’t want to risk dropping it.
"What the fuck did you do?!"
"I don't know, ok!!" Viola yelled.
"I tried to use Witch Time, but it didn't work! It's like someone deactivated it or some shit!"
Jeanne could only roll her eyes in disappointment before seeing Queen Styx failing again. She had been so close to removing the bounds off her body. Now, that would never come to be.
However, the duo had more immediate matters to attend as Sacrilege Demons were almost upon them. They figured that they had to jump and fly to safety.
Although, it wasn’t until Jeanne tried summoning her butterfly wings that she was unable to.
“What the-?! I can’t… I can’t summon my wings!” Jeanne shouted with grave concern.
Viola tried to do the same with her fairy wings, but also couldn’t summon them.
The two had realized that they were in an even bigger predicament than before. Certain abilities of theirs were being disabled and they didn’t know how!
Jeanne and Viola tired selves could only look down at the red slime, seeing that it had almost engulfed the entire city beyond a fifty-mile radius. There was no time to think as Sacrilege Demons were ready to kill the two. They had to jump now!
So, they looked at each other with nodding heads and let go, bracing for impact as they went straight down!
BOOM!!
The screen pans out to reveal that Angel Slayer V4 had been blown to bits in a blaze of fire!
“ENZO!!!” the two screamed, worrying for his safety!
Just then, they see a mysterious figure briskly emerging from the explosion, flying towards them at the speed of sound.
H. O. T. D: 07 Pursuit Ends
H. O. T. D: 22 Saeko Shows Up Begins
"Rodin!" Viola gleefully yelled, noticing that Enzo was holding onto his legs.
The two take a sigh of relief before Rodin catches each of them under his arms.
“Thank you! You have no idea how much we needed this!“ Viola says.
”It’s my pleasure Viola,” he graciously replied.
However, Jeanne remained suspicious of his actions.
”Rodin, while I do appreciate the rescue, you’ve never been one to get involved. What changed?“ she questioned.
“Look, I don’t normally do this shit, just think of it a one-time exception. I’m doing it because I saw what you guys are up against. It isn’t pretty,” he answers.
”Can we please find somewhere to land?! Unlike you guys, I don’t magical powers to save my ass!” Enzo complained.
“Will you please shut your loud ass mouth up?! Don’t think I forgot about-!” Rodin responds before being cutoff.
”Ok, ok, I get it! Jeez, why is everyone ganging up on me today!” Enzo yelled, quieting down afterwards.
H. O. T. D: 22 Saeko Shows Up Ends
Heaven's Feel: Fears and Hopes Begins
The screen fades to black before transitioning to a toppled building on its side, panning out to reveal the ongoing chaos in the background with the Sacrilege Demons.
The were temporarily safe now thanks to Rodin. Enzo was even kissing the ground after being in the sky for so long.
“Viola, I think you’re gonna need these,” Rodin says, summoning a purple box onto his hands.
“It’s been a while since these babies were put to work, so I guess now is as good a time as ever,” he says, offering her the box.
Viola could only stare with visible concern as tears formed in her eyes.
”Rodin, I… I don’t think I can accept these. They’re…!” she stutters.
”Viola, if Cereza gave you Cheshire, then I see no reason as to why she wouldn’t let you use her guns. If you want to complete you’re training as an Umbra Witch, accepting these guns is a necessary step,” Jeanne tells her.
”Besides, those cheap props on you won’t last another second!” she joked.
Suddenly, a comedic scene ensues where all the Viola’s props on her hands and feet fall apart into pieces.
”Tsk…shitty cheap toys…” Viola sheepishly mutters under her breath.
”I… I guess you have a point Jeanne…” she reluctantly says, turning to Rodin.
She was quiet now, thinking about the consequences of her actions. Was she ready to become an Umbra Witch? The question dawned on for some time, but she realized that it was now or never. She had to stop the red entity for good.
”Thank you Rodin. I‘ll make good us of them,” she says with a small smile on her face.
She then opens the lid and begins taking each gun out one by one, equipping them on her hands and feet. It wasn’t anything dramatic, just business as usual.
”I only wish mummy was here to see it,” she thought.
Heaven's Feel: Fears and Hopes Ends
H. O. T. D: 02 Impulse Begins
BOOSH!
The camera panned out to show Queen Styx suffering. She had fallen onto the ground again and was restrained again with double the tentacles, ensuring that there would be no escape this time.
Jeanne could only watch in horror as Queen Styx was being eaten alive by Sacrilege Demons.
Multiple thoughts ran through her head about what she could do. She could dance, place her heart back into its cavity, or-!
”My, my, how sad is it to see princess Jeanne fail again,“ a voice mocked.
Jeanne looked at the red creature with a furious expression.
The screen then cut to the face of the red creature as a distorted, female voice was emitted through the Golem and heard all throughout Manhattan.
“Poor princess Jeanne, she couldn’t save her own kind, let alone her pet. These actions are, dare I say, more worthless than even Viola. Granted, a bottom feeder such as her has no hope for a future. Nonetheless, is it so wrong to expect more from the fabled ‘Last Witch’?” the female voice giggled, sarcastically ridiculing Jeanne and Viola.
”What is this bitch’s deal?! Does she have some vendetta against us?!” Viola shouted, turning towards Jeannes.
“I could say the same! How the hell does she know about my past?! Let alone my-?!” Jeanne replied, abruptly cutoff.
”That, princess, is my secret. One for you to never find out. You’ll be long dead before that. I promise,” the female voice declared with absolute certainty, stunning the two with the threat.
“Anyhow, it's time for your pet to be put out of its misery. Sin Demons were so last fall, wouldn’t you agree?”
Suddenly, a large tentacle began emerging from the creature's body, morphing into that of a sharp blade.
“DON’T YOU DARE!!” Jeanne yelled.
However, she was ignored as the blade plunged into Queen Styx's heart, putting an end to her as she fell onto the ground, absorbed by the slime.
Jeanne exploded with a blaze of acrimony, placing her heart back in its chest!
"YOU BITCH!!" she blared, beyond furious!
Viola was stunned by the barbarity of the action, wanting revenge!
H. O. T. D: 02 Impulse Ends
Bayonetta 3: Al Fine Begins at 0:53
She and Jeanne turned to Rodin, seeing him nod his head. They were going kill this abomination now!
So, he grabbed the two and began spinning at nauseating speeds, building a strong momentum before throwing them right at the red Golem!
A QTE then appeared as Viola and Jeanne launched a constant barrage of Wicked Weaves at the red core! They were punching so hard that they broke the QTE gauge, ending their stream of attacks with a Heel Stomp from above that smashed the Golem's core into bits!
Viola and Jeanne could then hear the woman's distorted voice cursing at them through the bits of the remaining core.
“If you think this is the last of me, think again! I’ll be back!” She curses, voice fading away soon after.
Bayonetta 3: Al Fine Ends
The screen then shows the red entity disintegrate, panning out in the sky to reveal that the slime that spread across Manhattan was evaporating.
The screen then cuts to Jeanne and Viola using their wings to lower themselves from the sky, landing onto the street. They had no doubt in their minds that the female voice was one behind everything.
Yet, with that in mind, all they could do now was look at what remained of the city. There were damaged roads, toppled buildings, and countless people missing.
They could only look at each other with concern, realizing that while the battle was won, more was to come. The sky was still blood-red and something else had remained.
The camera zooms in onto the duos faces before moving to the gaping hole where the convention center once stood. It then went all the way down, dramatically revealing a Gate to Inferno.
Things were not over, not in the slightest.
Prologue Part III Finale (2/2) Ends
New Infernal Demon Entry Unlocked:
submitted by The_Fool_Arcana0000 to Bayonetta [link] [comments]
Bayonetta 4 Compendium
Prologue Part III Finale (2/2):
Heaven's Feel: The Outbreak of War Begins
The screen pans out to reveal multiple Sin Demons in the distance headed towards the aircraft, some even materializing on the very roof that the duo stood on.
"Are those-?!" Jeanne questioned, mouth agape.
"Sin Demons" Viola interrupts.
"They're all Sin Demons. I don't how or why, but if they get in our way, we cut them down!"
"Alright then, I suppose that this moment calls for special back up," Jeanne declared, turning her hips to summon a Umbran headset.
It was time to talk with the pilot.
"Enzo, I think you've earned a reward for having followed all of my orders-! I'll be granting you full access to all the missiles on this lovely slayer of mine!"
She then raised her left hand all the way up, sassily snapping her fingers.
VOOSH!
The screen shows multiple missile launchers loaded with AGM-114 Hellfire's springing out from the sides of the aircraft as well as the undercarriage opening, revealing a huge, M134 Machine Gun.
Enzo's voice could be heard panicking from the headset.
"What the FUCK?! I don't know how-!"
"There's a small pamphlet underneath your seat with all the necessary instructions. Read that and you'll be learning in no time!" Jeanne elegantly retorted.
Enzo grumbled to himself, scrambling to find the pamphlet. It was either that or death via plane crash.
Heaven's Feel: The Outbreak of War Ends
Heaven's Feel: Come on, Make your Move Begins
The screen cuts to Jeanne and Viola, readying themselves for battle!
The Sin Demons on the roof have fully materialized, taking their first few steps before shrieking at the duo.
The Book of Infernal Demons then appears on screen, revealing new entries: "Devourer of Will: Sin Apathy", "Wailer of Lament: Sin Despair", "Feaster of Petrification: Sin Fury", and "Husk of Boundless Animosity: Sin Spite".
Sin Apathy: It has a male, pitch-black body with draconic features, red eyes, and a black miasma surrounding it. It is able to stretch out it arms and use its venom-covered claws to dig into its enemies, inflicting a special poison capable of draining its victims will to live and organ failure.
Sin Despair: It has a tall, abnormally thin, female figure, with pale skin, dirty white hair, red eyes, and long red claws. It is constantly wailing and crying tears of blood from its torn-off face and becomes unhinged when approached. It is a vicious killing machine that uses ultra-sonic screams, and endlessly swipes at its enemies with its claws.
Sin Fury: It is a wyvern now, capable of releasing poisoned, black thorns that makes its enemy sluggish. Moreover, they're able to traverse through its environment at faster speeds because of their large wings. Lastly, its eye has been enhanced, being able to release magical shots that can permanently petrify opponents.
Sin Spite: It has a tall, bulky, male figure, with small, red wings, a long red tail, and red, scaley-skin. Additionally, it carries a golden trident capable of releasing waves of energy. It has black eyes and is able to gape its mouth at terrifying degrees, revealing the multitude of sharp teeth that it uses to chomp it enemies.
The book then closes before heading straight for the camera, cutting back to Jeanne and Viola.
Their backs are side-to-side as they pass through blood-red, demon-infested skies!
"We've got work to do!!" Jeanne screamed, summoning All 4 One!
"I couldn't have said it better myself!!"Viola yells, taking out Mab Dachi from its scabbard on her back.
Heaven's Feel: Come on, Make your Move Ends
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Metal
The screen then shows the duo separate to fight their own enemies.
Jeanne is lunged upon by four Sin Despairs in the air. They intend to gouge her eyes out and dismember her limb-by-limb!
"You bitches think you've got a chance?! Then so be it!!" she yelled, shooting multiple charge shots at them!
Almost all of them were disoriented, but one had dodged all the bullets, going ahead of the rest to kill Jeanne. However, it was met with an unexpected Heel Stomp from Jeanne that smacked it from above and onto the ground!
"You ugly bitch!" Jeanne yelled, running to the Sin Demon before using Combo 15!
During this, Jeanne was continuously pistol whipping the Sin Despair, releasing a Wicked Weave that knocked the demon up into the air before following it up with a devastating Wicked Weave that kicked it off the roof!
Despite this, Jeanne was not out of the clear as other Sin Despairs had regained their balance, now closing the gap with her as they prepared an ultra-sonic scream!
"HAAAA!!!"
"Shut the FUCK UP!" Jeanne retorted, jumping into the air before using Concussion Step to slam their asses to the side!
After that, she used Blink Charge to reach one of four Sin Fury's flying in the air, gracefully Air Kicking it down. However, when she landed on the floor, two of them descended upon her, shooting out balls of purple energy from their eyes!
"Hah! You worthless vermin!" Jeanne taunted, dodging at the last second before transforming into a kettle of red moths.
Ding!
Witch Time was now active as the colors of environment became a transparent purple and Jeanne sped up.
First, she used Full Moon Shoot to launch the Sin Fury that she knocked down into the air before using Tetsuzanko to push it towards the two Sin Fury's headed towards her. Then, she used Blink Charge again to reach that same demon, using Astounding Touch to kill the three with multiple punches!
Afterwards, she quickly used Heel Stomp on the remaining Sin Fury to get it onto the floor before using Gut Wrench Heel to finish it off!
FWOOSH!
Witch Time had ended as the colors of environment returned to normal and Jeanne landed on the floor.
The screen then showed five Sin Spites releasing spouts of red water from their mouths towards Jeanne!
However, she remained calm and poised, leaping into the air to avoid the oncoming explosions before yelling aloud with a powerful pose!
"ZILDAR VPAAH!"
Suddenly, a demonic bird had pierced clouds in the sky before descending onto the roof of the aircraft, opening its massive wings. It released a gust of wind that sent multiple Sin Spites flying backwards!
"So much for 'Sin Demon', how pathetic!" Jeanne laughed, gently touching Malphas as he vanished into particles.
The screen then cut to the front of the aircraft to show missiles being launched at Sin Demons in the sky, resulting in a never-ending number of explosions. Meanwhile, the M134 Machine Gun, was gunning down multiple Sin Demons that approached the aircraft!
Enzo is then shown in the pilot's seat growling as he pressed multiple buttons.
"TASTE THIS MOTHERFUCKERS!!"
BOOSH!
BOOSH!
BRRRRRT!!!
As for Viola, she was dealing with her own set of enemies.
Three Sin Spite's had released turquoise, diagonal slashes of energy towards her from their tridents in the air!
"Not on my watch!" she yelled, jumping into the air to avoid the attack.
She then used Shredder to reach the Sin Spite in the middle, quickly using After Burner Kick to stun it. Afterwards, she jumped on its body, going directly above it to use Star in the Black.
"These fuckers have nothing on me!" she excitedly yelled, releasing a barrage of darts that exploded on impact!
BOOM!
The Sin Spite's went down hard as the explosion damaged their wings!
Viola then aimed Mab Dachi downward, readily preparing her next attack!
"Time to die, baby!" she shouted, using Hungry Hi-Hat as she landed onto the roof of the aircraft, puncturing it with her katana!
Cheshire's ginormous head was seen coming out from a demonic portal and straight into the air! He had a devilish grin on his face, mouth drooling at the sight of the delicious feast that Viola had prepared for him!
The screen then cuts to three Sin Spites comedically trying to avoid his mouth. However, all attempts failed as his mouth grew wider in size. Afterall, Sin Demons were "beyond a delicacy" in Inferno, Cheshire thought. He didn't know when he would be able to devour one again. So, he wouldn't let a single drop of blood go to waste as the Sin Spites landed into his hypnotic mouth.
CRUNCH!!
CRUNCH!!
GULP!
Cheshire is seen wiping blood off his lips with joy before disappearing into particles.
Afterwards, Viola heads towards Mab Dachi, pulling it out from the roof before feeling a sudden stinging sensation on her back.
In response, she quickly does a back walkover, turning her head mid-air to see a Sin Despair.
"Jeez, these guys are aggressive!" she thought.
She then proceeded to sweep kick the Sin Despair, seeing it fall flat on its face before using Tom Tom Balloon to launch it in air!
Then she used Combo 11, following it up with a perfectly timed Bass Boost that thrusted the Sin Demon onto a group of Sin Apathy's as they stretched their hands towards Viola.
"I don't think so, assholes!"
CRASH!
All the Sin Demons were knocked down onto the floor. However, Viola wasn't done, Cheshire still had to have his fun.
"CHESHIRE!" she shouted, throwing Mab Dachi onto the floor.
A huge portal then formed from where the Katana landed. Cheshire emerging from it soon after!
He looked onward at the sight with jubilation before making a tall jump in the air. All he needed was one good pounce to end these Sin Demons!
So, he readied a new attack, Blue Tenka (点火). He would engulf himself with blue flames, turning into a ticking time bomb that would detonate the second he slammed onto something. Now, it would render him temporarily unavailable as he would die. However, his knack for theatrics made him want to take out his enemies with a bang.
”Knock'em them dead, Cheshire!” Viola screamed.
The screen then showed the Sin Despair and group of Sin Apathy looking at Cheshire’s ignited body with horror as he drew closer to them.
All Cheshire could do was look at their faces was a cheeky grin.
“It's over for these chumps!” he thought.
BOOM!!
A multitude of Sin Apathy’s flew off of the aircraft while others suffered a most horrible execution.
“Woo-hoo!” Viola cheered, giving Cheshire a thumbs up before running towards Mab Dachi to regroup with Jeanne.
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Ends
Heaven's Feel: He goes, She goes Begins
The screen begins to pan out from the aircraft, revealing that the trio was within proximity to the red creature. However, the atmosphere was becoming more unnervingly tense, the closer they got.
Furthermore, Jeanne and Viola were surprised when they saw various Sin Demons emerging from the red creature. It was almost as if the creature itself was a conductor of sorts, serving as an alternative to the Human World than those of the Gates.
Eerily enough, however, there was another situation at hand as hordes of Sin Demons had ceased to pursue them and were retreating.
The screen shows all the Sin Demons heads towards to the creature before getting into a strange formation and flying in place. They were now facing the trio with stoic expressions and readied battle stances.
"This behavior is... unnatural, especially for that of a demon. Why are they acting as its guards?" Jeanne questioned.
"Do they not want us to reach that thing all the way in the back that badly?" Viola replied.
Despite this, the duo became more preoccupied the entities head, realizing how it was solely focused on them. The Golem mask had no eyes, but the red Core at the center was shifting to indicate that it was looking at the aircraft.
Viola couldn't help but feel shivers down her spine at the unsettling sight.
"Jesus Christ... What the hell is all this?" Viola yelped, gasping at the sight.
As for Jeanne, she didn't know what to make of the situation. She was too busy analyzing the entity as best she could and was stunned by what she was saw at the very top. It was a golem, one that had shaped itself into that of a mask.
"What is this thing? I've never seen anything like it. Let alone the fact that it uses a Golem. However, that shouldn't be possible. Not without-! "
GARGLE!
GARGLE!
Heaven's Feel: He goes, She goes Ends
Heavens Feel: What Else, We Can Do? Begins
The screen shows to the shocked expressions of the duo as the entity began charging up an attack. Its body began to repeat the motion of an ocean wave. Then, a huge, demonic portal appeared from above the creature!
As a result, the two began feeling a strange sensation in their stomach's before starting to gag and fall on the floor. They felt their vision begin to blur, a loud ringing sound in their ears, and magic being sapped from their bodies.
"What is...happening?!" Viola sputtered, trying to cover her ears with her hands.
"Ugghh! This damned...monster!" Jeanne coughed out, hearing disconnected spurts of a distorted, female voice chanting in Enochian.
"DO O IA █ █ █ █ █ █... EGELIRCAS ECIFIRCAS... FAFEN NIIS!!!"
The screen then cut to the entity becoming a vibrant red before thin, slime tentacles emerged from its body, lengthening in size as they soar to multiple Sin Demons, touching their backs and merging with them!
The screen then cut to a Sin Insidious glowing a shiny red before growing even larger in size as red, metallic armor encased it.
The distorted female voice could be heard giggling before fading away, along with the demonic portal.
The screen then shows the terrifying face of a Sacrilege Insidious before cutting to the Book of Infernal Demons opening. It turned all the way to the end, revealing that page entries have been ripped off. The book closes thereafter as it cuts to the duo.
Suddenly, a loud screeching could be heard from all the Sacrilege Demons as they beamed towards the aircraft, making their way to it!
Meanwhile, Enzo remained unaffected by the strange sickness inflicted upon Jeanne and Viola, becoming distraught at the sight. He was screaming at the top of his lungs by what he was witnessing!
So, he began to check up on Jeanne and Viola, hearing them groaning in agony.
"Are you guys, ok?!! Jeanne?! Viola?! Answer me dammit, please!!" he shouted.
"We have to get OUT OF HERE!!"
The two were beginning to stand up as the pain in their stomachs subsided now that the voice was gone.
"Ugh! That was awful..." Viola said, picking herself up before looking at the entity.
"AAAAHHHH!!!" she shrieked, voice cracking as she stared at the Sacrilege Demons headed towards them!
"We have to get out of here*-*!"
Heavens Feel: What Else, We Can Do? Ends
The All-American Rejects: Real World Begins
"No! This is where we make our final stand Viola! The lives that have been lost can't be for naught!! This ends now!!" Jeanne interrupts, declaring her intentions before striking a pose, uniform coming undone!
"BRANSG ZUMVI!!!"
A portal appeared on the roof as a torrent of her hair went into it. Then, another portal formed in front of the aircraft as a huge, vicious turtle began pulling itself out of the portal.
The screen then cuts to the Book of Infernal Demons. It opens up to reveal one of Jeanne's new allies, "Deceiver of the Seas: Aspidochelone". It is a humongous, ungodly looking, dark-green turtle with a spiked shell, razor-sharp teeth, and black eyes.
"Go as fast as you can Enzo! It's time to go FULL THROTTLE!!!" she shrieked into her microphone.
Suddenly, the aircraft began accelerating to absurd speeds as a demonic portal beneath the demon disappeared and was replaced with an Umbran portal. This, in conjunction with the speed at which the aircraft went, kept the demon in place.
However, Jeanne wasn’t done yet. At the snap of her fingers, the Umbran portal began rapidly spinning, turning the demon into a makeshift drill. One that would ram down all the Sacrilege Demons that stood in their way!
She then began instructing Enzo to avoid a place crash.
"Follow my orders Enzo! If I say 'up' you go up, if I say 'left' you go left. Got that?!"
"YES!!" he obediently responded.
"Good!" Jeanne replied, turning to face a surprised Viola.
"As for you Viola, you're going to need to hold on tight!" she said, making a dramatic pose before staring at the red creature in the distance.
"If these mothafuckas won't give us an opening, then I'll make my own!!"
The screen then pans out in a manner similar to Space Harrier, showing the aircraft flying towards the red entity as Aspidochelone mowed down various Sacrilege Demons.
Meanwhile, Jeanne was making dramatic quotes as she ordered Enzo to move all throughout the sky, bobbing and weaving as she delivered Wicked Weaves with Madama Styx in a QTE to knockback Sacrilege Demons that approached the aircraft from its sides. As for Viola and Enzo, they were hanging on for dear life, wondering how Bayonetta and Jeanne did this for years on end.
Eventually, they reach the boss at the end, Sacrilege Insidious. He was more deadly than before, but Jeanne was not one to back down from a fight no matter how strong an enemy was.
It began to shoot ginormous, red lasers from the ends of its six wings towards the aircraft, all of which were dodged at the last second thanks to Jeanne's masterful instructions, leading to Witch Time.
Jeanne then closed the gap between the aircraft and the abhorrent demon to pierce its large, third eye.
This cycle would repeat itself until six eyeballs, each belonging to one wing, would start attacking the aircraft. In this case, when one eye approached, Enzo would use the aircraft's missiles and minigun to briefly stun the eye.
Afterwards, Jeanne would use multiple Wicked Weaves to punch the eye before ripping it from its socket and crushing it a gush of blood.
Later, when the last eyeball was removed, Jeanne figured that it would be a good time to end the monstrosity for good!
"Viola! What I'm about to do is very dangerous, I need you to protect me at all costs!" she shouted at a nauseous Viola.
"Yes Jeanne!" Viola replied, hands on her knees as she tried to keep her body standing.
Thankfully, she recovered in time, taking out Mab Dachi and preparing herself for enemies.
"Hopefully this will end all the shit that's been going on" she thought.
The screen then cuts to Jeanne as she prepares herself for the Demon Sin Ritual, Aspidochelone vanishing soon after.
"DO O IA JEANNE. CNILA D COMSELHA ODO ANANAEL. TURBS C BABLON ZONAC CIAOFI BALZARG. FAFEN NIIS!!" she screams, ripping her heart out as her costume comes undone.
She then begins to dance in a sensual manner, breaking it down and doing a split.
The All-American Rejects: Real World Ends
Bayonetta 3: Queen Magick Begins
Suddenly, a giant portal appears from behind the aircraft!
Queen Styx was then seen flying out of it with her butterfly wings in a horizontal manner, making her way towards the Sacrilege Insidious!
It was in that moment that a QTE appeared. Queen Styx began brutally pummeling the Sacrilege Insidious with her fists, gouging it large, third eye with both of her hands!
Then, she would begin tearing the Sacrilege Demon apart, ripping it in half!
PSSHH!!
The Sacrilege Insidious cried out its last breath by dying. However, Queen Styx was far from done from done!
She would use this opportunity to strike the red creature with the remains of the demon she killed!
Queen Styx slammed the slabs of meat against the red entity!
BAM!
BOOSH!!
The screen shows the creature remain standing, but its body was viciously trembling now. The core was now eyeing Queen Styx with hatred as she began taunting it with a stylish dance, ending off with a dramatic pose.
So, it began sending even more Sacrilege Demons towards her as she got up from the floor and began charging a purple Kamehameha. The Sacrilege Demons began picking away at Queen Styx's skin, but she didn't care. Jeanne gave her an order and she will follow it through to the end.
"KA...ME...HA...ME...HAAA!!!!" Queen Styx screamed, unleashing a humongous ray of energy close to point-blank range!
All that could be seen now was a gigantic, purple explosion eviscerating the red creature in its entirety, leaving behind an immense black mark on the ground as clouds of smoke and fire billowed in the air.
Or, at least, that was what Jeanne had hoped for...
Bayonetta 3: Queen Magick Ends
Heavens Feel: I Beg You (Instrumental) Begins
The red creature remained untouched…
The attack had failed to leave even a single dent on it!
Jeanne was left aghast at the site!
"How could it have failed?" she quietly stated, shock overwhelming her.
She started going pale, almost falling to the floor before Viola caught her in her time.
"It failed. I failed..." Jeanne repeated to herself over and over again.
"Jeanne! You have to snap out of it! Please!!" Viola cried out, voice going unheard.
In the Platinum Witch's mind, all she could think about was how one of her strongest attacks had failed. How Cereza, her best friend, her Umbran sister, would have overcome the fear that entered her body the moment she heard about Sacrilege Demons. How Cereza would have taken out the monstrosity with a blaze of glory. Not making a single mistake in the process. Cereza would not have failed the way she did!
"Cer...e...za..." Jeanne stuttered in a dream-like state.
All Viola could do was hold her as she stared at the escalating situation between Queen Styx and the red creature.
It had gone awry the moment Jeanne stopped dancing. Troops of Sacrilege Demons had begun attacking a vulnerable Queen Styx and feasting on her flesh!
She tried to wave them away with her arms but was overwhelmed. Moreover, two Sacrilege Insidious had emerged from the red entity, ready for revenge after Queen Styx slaughtered one of its brethren.
They released red lasers from the ends of their wings, striking her in the face!
"AAAHHH!!" she cried out, pools of blood pouring from her eyes as the lasers permanently blinded her.
However, it was this scream that snapped Jeanne out of her state. She began raising herself off the floor with Viola's help before looking on with terror, realizing that she had to do something now or risk Queen Styx dying!
"You bastards!! You'll PAY for this!!!" she shouted, gripping her heart even tighter and dancing with vigor.
Queen Styx was rejuvenated with strength and began to blindly claw away at her enemies with her nails with excessive force. She even attempted to use Royal Escort to keep some of the enemies at bay.
However, she was quickly stung by one of the tails of a Sacrilege Insidious, interrupting her attack.
This did not go unnoticed by the red entity as it decided to take advantage of the situation.
First, it released a red force field from its body, spreading throughout the vicinity before fading away.
Viola had noticed this, seeing the Sacrilege Demon become enraged.
"Great! As if shit wasn't bad enough already!" she complained.
Afterwards, the creature began using the slime beneath Queen Styx to shoot out immense slime tentacles to immobilize her.
One had immediately come out from behind, wrapping itself around her neck and pulling back with tremendous force!
She groaned in agony, startled by the sudden attack. However, the red creature wasn't done yet.
Queen Styx was struck again by other tentacles from all angles!
Two had latched themselves around her wrists while another four enveloped her waist, pulling her down and onto her knees.
"AAAHHH!!" she moaned, Sacrilege Demons eating away alive!
Jeanne was infuriated at the sight, gritting her teeth with such force that she could feel some break!
She would do everything possible to free Queen Styx and proceeded to screech the loudest she ever had!
"DESCEND TO DARKNESS!!!"
Her dancing became more rigorous and provocative than ever before as panic seeped into her body, painfully invigorating her muscles to free Queen Styx!
The screen then cut to Queen Styx resisting the restraints, managing to crush the tentacles on her wrists with her hands.
She was beginning to set herself free now. Things were finally turning up for her.
Heavens Feel: I Beg You (Instrumental) Ends
Ferry Corsten: Fire (Mike on Fire Ver.) Begins at 0:55
Meanwhile, Viola was left to deal with various Sacrilege Demons were able to land on the aircraft.
She was exhausted beyond belief but knew that she had to fight. It was that or have her soul mercilessly consumed. So, readied Mab Dachi and goes to strike a Sacrilege Fury.
However, the katana bounced off the demon as if it were invulnerable, leaving no mark on it.
"Holy shit! What are these guys made of?! " She exclaims, switching to her pistols before shooting the Sacrilege Fury.
DING!
TANG!
CLACK!
All of the bullets had ricocheted off the armor of the Sacrilege Fury.
Viola stared at the uninjured Sacrilege Demon with hopelessness, looking around as more began to surround her and Jeanne. However, she remembered would happen if she faltered now.
"Who will protect Jeanne if I'm down for the count?! Everything is riding on me now! I have to act quick or risk everything falling apart!" she thought.
So, Viola deciding that it was now time to use her fairy form, taking Mab Dachi out.
"Daddy, please give me strength!" she pleaded, stabbing herself in the stomach!
The screen then pans out to reveal a blinding light engulf Viola before revealing new fairy design. Her fur body was a mauve purple while her long hair was a seashell pink color. Furthermore, the stained-glass on her body were shades of the colors red, pink, and yellow. Lastly, the stained glass from her face was now gone and refitted as a gorgeous diadem on her forehead.
"It's time to get down to business!" she shouted, teleporting through various Sacrilege Demons to get to the middle of the roof before using Combo 2 to stun lock all of them at once!
Then, she teleported again to reach a Sin Fury in the air, using Combo 1 to stagger it before jumping off of its body to show off a new move, Crystal Drive.
The screen shows Viola create a large crystal in her hands with magic before throwing it down into the ground, impaling a Sacrilege Demon onto the floor. This is a process that she would repeat multiple times, sporadically teleporting from place to place and striking at different angles. However, it would all be aimed at the spot that she first struck.
Lastly, we see her teleport to the position that she first threw a crystal (briefly winking at the camera) before creating another crystal, one larger than the rest, and throwing it down to deal the finishing blow!
BOOM!
CRASH!!
The sounds of glass breaking could be heard as the impact from the last crystal caused a white explosion that sent multiple Sacrilege Demons off the roof!
”How’d you like that?!" Viola taunted, satisfied with herself.
Despite this, some Sacrilege Spites and Apathy’s had remained on the roof, but it wasn’t something that Viola couldn’t handle.
So, she teleported to one of the Sin Spites before having to dodge in the nick of time.
“Perfect!” She thought, preparing to make use of Witch Time.
Except, there was no Witch Time...
“What the-!” she shouted, faltering in attack before a Sacrilege Spite slammed her with its large tail.
Ferry Corsten: Fire (Mike on Fire Ver.) Ends
H. O. T. D: 07 Pursuit Begins
The attack was so strong that it deactivated Viola’s transformation and sent her flying towards Jeanne, knocking her down and onto the side the aircraft!
They were now hanging onto the aircraft’s railings as Sacrilege Demons began inching closer to them, resulting in the aircraft tilting to the side.
Enzo could even be heard yelling through the Jeanne’s microphone.
”What the hell is going on?! Why is this fucking thing TILTING?!” he raged, questions going unanswered.
Jeanne and Viola were now dangling on the plane's railing, arguing with each other.
"VIOLA!" Jeanne angrily yelled, grabbing onto the railing with her left hand and wrapping her right arm over it. She still had her heart in her hand and didn’t want to risk dropping it.
"What the fuck did you do?!"
"I don't know, ok!!" Viola yelled.
"I tried to use Witch Time, but it didn't work! It's like someone deactivated it or some shit!"
Jeanne could only roll her eyes in disappointment before seeing Queen Styx failing again. She had been so close to removing the bounds off her body. Now, that would never come to be.
However, the duo had more immediate matters to attend as Sacrilege Demons were almost upon them. They figured that they had to jump and fly to safety.
Although, it wasn’t until Jeanne tried summoning her butterfly wings that she was unable to.
“What the-?! I can’t… I can’t summon my wings!” Jeanne shouted with grave concern.
Viola tried to do the same with her fairy wings, but also couldn’t summon them.
The two had realized that they were in an even bigger predicament than before. Certain abilities of theirs were being disabled and they didn’t know how!
Jeanne and Viola tired selves could only look down at the red slime, seeing that it had almost engulfed the entire city beyond a fifty-mile radius. There was no time to think as Sacrilege Demons were ready to kill the two. They had to jump now!
So, they looked at each other with nodding heads and let go, bracing for impact as they went straight down!
BOOM!!
The screen pans out to reveal that Angel Slayer V4 had been blown to bits in a blaze of fire!
“ENZO!!!” the two screamed, worrying for his safety!
Just then, they see a mysterious figure briskly emerging from the explosion, flying towards them at the speed of sound.
H. O. T. D: 07 Pursuit Ends
H. O. T. D: 22 Saeko Shows Up Begins
"Rodin!" Viola gleefully yelled, noticing that Enzo was holding onto his legs.
The two take a sigh of relief before Rodin catches each of them under his arms.
“Thank you! You have no idea how much we needed this!“ Viola says.
”It’s my pleasure Viola,” he graciously replied.
However, Jeanne remained suspicious of his actions.
”Rodin, while I do appreciate the rescue, you’ve never been one to get involved. What changed?“ she questioned.
“Look, I don’t normally do this shit, just think of it a one-time exception. I’m doing it because I saw what you guys are up against. It isn’t pretty,” he answers.
”Can we please find somewhere to land?! Unlike you guys, I don’t magical powers to save my ass!” Enzo complained.
“Will you please shut your loud ass mouth up?! Don’t think I forgot about-!” Rodin responds before being cutoff.
”Ok, ok, I get it! Jeez, why is everyone ganging up on me today!” Enzo yelled, quieting down afterwards.
H. O. T. D: 22 Saeko Shows Up Ends
Heaven's Feel: Fears and Hopes Begins
The screen fades to black before transitioning to a toppled building on its side, panning out to reveal the ongoing chaos in the background with the Sacrilege Demons.
The were temporarily safe now thanks to Rodin. Enzo was even kissing the ground after being in the sky for so long.
“Viola, I think you’re gonna need these,” Rodin says, summoning a purple box onto his hands.
“It’s been a while since these babies were put to work, so I guess now is as good a time as ever,” he says, offering her the box.
Viola could only stare with visible concern as tears formed in her eyes.
”Rodin, I… I don’t think I can accept these. They’re…!” she stutters.
”Viola, if Cereza gave you Cheshire, then I see no reason as to why she wouldn’t let you use her guns. If you want to complete you’re training as an Umbra Witch, accepting these guns is a necessary step,” Jeanne tells her.
”Besides, those cheap props on you won’t last another second!” she joked.
Suddenly, a comedic scene ensues where all the Viola’s props on her hands and feet fall apart into pieces.
”Tsk…shitty cheap toys…” Viola sheepishly mutters under her breath.
”I… I guess you have a point Jeanne…” she reluctantly says, turning to Rodin.
She was quiet now, thinking about the consequences of her actions. Was she ready to become an Umbra Witch? The question dawned on for some time, but she realized that it was now or never. She had to stop the red entity for good.
”Thank you Rodin. I‘ll make good us of them,” she says with a small smile on her face.
She then opens the lid and begins taking each gun out one by one, equipping them on her hands and feet. It wasn’t anything dramatic, just business as usual.
”I only wish mummy was here to see it,” she thought.
Heaven's Feel: Fears and Hopes Ends
H. O. T. D: 02 Impulse Begins
BOOSH!
The camera panned out to show Queen Styx suffering. She had fallen onto the ground again and was restrained again with double the tentacles, ensuring that there would be no escape this time.
Jeanne could only watch in horror as Queen Styx was being eaten alive by Sacrilege Demons.
Multiple thoughts ran through her head about what she could do. She could dance, place her heart back into its cavity, or-!
”My, my, how sad is it to see princess Jeanne fail again,“ a voice mocked.
Jeanne looked at the red creature with a furious expression.
The screen then cut to the face of the red creature as a distorted, female voice was emitted through the Golem and heard all throughout Manhattan.
“Poor princess Jeanne, she couldn’t save her own kind, let alone her pet. These actions are, dare I say, more worthless than even Viola. Granted, a bottom feeder such as her has no hope for a future. Nonetheless, is it so wrong to expect more from the fabled ‘Last Witch’?” the female voice giggled, sarcastically ridiculing Jeanne and Viola.
”What is this bitch’s deal?! Does she have some vendetta against us?!” Viola shouted, turning towards Jeannes.
“I could say the same! How the hell does she know about my past?! Let alone my-?!” Jeanne replied, abruptly cutoff.
”That, princess, is my secret. One for you to never find out. You’ll be long dead before that. I promise,” the female voice declared with absolute certainty, stunning the two with the threat.
“Anyhow, it's time for your pet to be put out of its misery. Sin Demons were so last fall, wouldn’t you agree?”
Suddenly, a large tentacle began emerging from the creature's body, morphing into that of a sharp blade.
“DON’T YOU DARE!!” Jeanne yelled.
However, she was ignored as the blade plunged into Queen Styx's heart, putting an end to her as she fell onto the ground, absorbed by the slime.
Jeanne exploded with a blaze of acrimony, placing her heart back in its chest!
"YOU BITCH!!" she blared, beyond furious!
Viola was stunned by the barbarity of the action, wanting revenge!
H. O. T. D: 02 Impulse Ends
Bayonetta 3: Al Fine Begins at 0:53
She and Jeanne turned to Rodin, seeing him nod his head. They were going kill this abomination now!
So, he grabbed the two and began spinning at nauseating speeds, building a strong momentum before throwing them right at the red Golem!
A QTE then appeared as Viola and Jeanne launched a constant barrage of Wicked Weaves at the red core! They were punching so hard that they broke the QTE gauge, ending their stream of attacks with a Heel Stomp from above that smashed the Golem's core into bits!
Viola and Jeanne could then hear the woman's distorted voice cursing at them through the bits of the remaining core.
“If you think this is the last of me, think again! I’ll be back!” She curses, voice fading away soon after.
Bayonetta 3: Al Fine Ends
The screen then shows the red entity disintegrate, panning out in the sky to reveal that the slime that spread across Manhattan was evaporating.
The screen then cuts to Jeanne and Viola using their wings to lower themselves from the sky, landing onto the street. They had no doubt in their minds that the female voice was one behind everything.
Yet, with that in mind, all they could do now was look at what remained of the city. There were damaged roads, toppled buildings, and countless people missing.
They could only look at each other with concern, realizing that while the battle was won, more was to come. The sky was still blood-red and something else had remained.
The camera zooms in onto the duos faces before moving to the gaping hole where the convention center once stood. It then went all the way down, dramatically revealing a Gate to Inferno.
Things were not over, not in the slightest.
Prologue Part III Finale (2/2) Ends
New Infernal Demon Entry Unlocked:
- Apathy
- Aspidochelone
- Despair
2023.06.01 08:21 KyraMarr DIY real time voice changer?
I’m thinking about doing a cosplay soon for a character who’s mask allows him to imitate other people’s voices. I’m wanting to do a voice changer in the mask so I can talk in real time, but I’m having trouble finding tutorials on how to do that. The only way I think this will work is if I have different voice effects as presets so that I can switch between voices.
I would like to have 4 different voices if possible. Does anyone know how to make a real time voice changer with 4 different presets that I can use for my cosplay?
submitted by KyraMarr to cosplayers [link] [comments]
I would like to have 4 different voices if possible. Does anyone know how to make a real time voice changer with 4 different presets that I can use for my cosplay?
2023.06.01 07:44 StoneForever04 Back With an Update.
So, the person who I've been mutually flirting with invited me to a music show in my town. It rained so they invited to their house, I got to spend quality time learning about them. Their room is so cool. They even snagged a Mario Movie toy from McDonald's for me (mario is my special interest). Well, they needed to go to the store and while we were there, we held hands. The whole time we hung out, I almost involuntarily didn't mask my autism. I felt so comfortable that I played with the mario toy and did the voices that I have never used in front of anyone else intentionally. When I got home we texted and they told me that they thought about kissing me, but didn't want to make me uncomfortable. I thought of the same thing, but didn't want to make them feel uncomfortable. Right now, neither of us are ready for a relationship, but regardless I'm so happy that I'm getting to know them.
Thank you for reading this, and just know that life is full of surprises. Much love, StoneForever04.
submitted by StoneForever04 to demisexuality [link] [comments]
Thank you for reading this, and just know that life is full of surprises. Much love, StoneForever04.
2023.06.01 06:27 CompelledfromLurking Darkmoon in the DeepChapter 5: Homecoming
"Now there's a sight that never gets old," The Captain said, superstitiously pulling his warded necklace out from under his shirt.
The spotters nest was empty as the twisting spires of Violus City rose up to touch the failing light of day. The capital city. The crown jewel of a Kingdom that spanned more than half the globe and the entirety of the settled lands of man. The whole crew of the airship was on the deck watching as the heart of the city crested the horizon and eclipsed the setting sun.
As they passed into the shadow of that great and magnificent city, Hark felt a familiar chill pass over him. The aura that permeated this ancient place. The prowess. The echoes of the old ones who built the city through their mastery of that great and mysterious power. So much has been lost, he thought. What would the world look like if the sages hadn't been sacrificed? An edict his father had enacted a decade ago made even minor use of the prowess forbidden to all but those of royal lineage.
"Interceptor inbound, Captain," the spotter said. He was on the deck with the rest of the crew, but was still using his spyglass. The Captain nodded, then shot a nervous glance at Hark.
"I hope your visit will be well received, Warden."
Hark had little reason to think so. He had spent more than half of his life in Violus, under the tutelage of the Kings Loremaster, Toval. When the more delicate histories of the Kingdom came to light in the later years of his studies, Hark fled. He was sixteen when he left a note on his nightstand addressed to the King, and boarded an airship to the remote prison island of Irgalath.
To this day, he does not know what the King had said to the man who held the position of Warden at that time. When Hark disembarked his airship, he turned himself in. He fully expected, and was willing, to spend the rest of his life in prison for abandoning his post. The Warden put a sword in his hand instead. That man took him to the mat for two years until Hark could hold his own against the brutal fighting styles of the criminal underworld.
An interceptor closed in, pulling up alongside the older airship as Hark put up his hand in greeting. The interceptor airships of the Capital City were a more recent design. They were built for speed and delivering strategic blows using hit and run tactics. Despite Harks gesture of peace, he could see the interceptors two broadside cannons were manned. A man who wore the uniform of a high ranking official grabbed a golden bangle on his wrist, and his voice boomed out across the divide.
"Unknown vessel, we have no flight record of your arrival. You are trespassing in Violus airspace. Divert course now, or make peace with your gods."
A relic! Hark thought, and from the reactions of the rest of the crew, they were equally awed to see someone openly use the prowess. Is that...
"Cousin!" Hark bellowed out, struggling to carry his voice over the combined roar of the airship engines. The Captain of the interceptor gestured to one of his men, who handed him a spyglass. He peered through, and Hark saw recognition register on his face, followed by a wide grin.
"Proceed to docking bay five. Mooring nine," the man said.
"You owe me a drink, Harkenon."
I wish he hadn't used my full name, Hark thought.
The rest of the flight to the docking bay was short, but the crew was already acting weird around him. There was a reason he went by 'Hark'. While not a common name, it did sound like a commoner name. His full name was clearly royal. His mother had given it to him in secret, and had him named formally at temple before his father could deny the choice. She used to tell him that the King was furious when he found out. While still of a noble line, she was not Queen, and Hark could never be his heir.
The choice his mother made was not by virtue of ambition, or ego. He was born early, and during a conjunction; when all the planets aligned in the heavens. His memories of his mother were distant now, but Hark will never forget her description of what she felt when her only son first opened his eyes. A feeling he learned a name for during his studies at Violus after he was taken from her.
The touch of the prowess.
Hark was deep in thought as he stepped off the airship ramp onto the dock, but no sooner had his feet hit the stone, than he was wrapped in an embrace and lifted up off of them.
"Torvinad!" Hark said through a strained breath. "It's been too long, cousin." The man put Hark down and straightened out his jacket. "It's Fleet Commander Torvinad to most, you scoundrel," he said, winking. Hark could not help but smile. Torvinad always had that effect on him growing up. As son of the Kings brother, they had both been trained under Loremaster Toval at the same time. Leaving his best friend behind was the hardest part of Harks exodus, and he missed him dearly.
The pair walked down the dock towards the tall marble pillars on either side of the entrance to the docking bay of the city. The docking bay opened up into an industrial district, beyond which was the commons. A noble district was perched above the commons on a tier below the palace district, surrounding and including the great central spire of the city. Hark was relieved when a carriage pulled up at the gate. Torvinad clapped Hark on the shoulders.
"Didn't think I'd make you walk, did you?" he said, laughing. They got into the carriage and it sped off down the road. There was a much higher military presence in the city than Hark remembered, and something else was bothering him.
"Do they always send the Fleet Commander out to investigate stray airships?" he asked. Torvinad tensed, and some of the mirth fled from his features. "Oh, we don't have to talk about all that business yet, do we?" he replied. "How have you been, Hark? Any lady friends on that island of yours?" he asked, smirking and cocking his eyebrows up and down. Don't you dare, Hark thought, threatening the rising heat under his collar. "Not much time for that, I'm afraid," he said. The smile on Torvinads face grew wider. "Your cheeks tell a different tale, my friend."
Hark raised a finger to protest, but his cousin cut him off. "Over drinks, Hark! Be gentle with me, I can only take so much of your bashful charm at once," he said, but his smile dropped as he studied his cousins face. "What is it?" he asked. Hark met his eyes, unable to mask the grim anticipation of his purpose in Violus. "Our drink will have to wait, Tor," he said.
"I need to speak with my father."
submitted by CompelledfromLurking to JPsTales [link] [comments]
The spotters nest was empty as the twisting spires of Violus City rose up to touch the failing light of day. The capital city. The crown jewel of a Kingdom that spanned more than half the globe and the entirety of the settled lands of man. The whole crew of the airship was on the deck watching as the heart of the city crested the horizon and eclipsed the setting sun.
As they passed into the shadow of that great and magnificent city, Hark felt a familiar chill pass over him. The aura that permeated this ancient place. The prowess. The echoes of the old ones who built the city through their mastery of that great and mysterious power. So much has been lost, he thought. What would the world look like if the sages hadn't been sacrificed? An edict his father had enacted a decade ago made even minor use of the prowess forbidden to all but those of royal lineage.
"Interceptor inbound, Captain," the spotter said. He was on the deck with the rest of the crew, but was still using his spyglass. The Captain nodded, then shot a nervous glance at Hark.
"I hope your visit will be well received, Warden."
Hark had little reason to think so. He had spent more than half of his life in Violus, under the tutelage of the Kings Loremaster, Toval. When the more delicate histories of the Kingdom came to light in the later years of his studies, Hark fled. He was sixteen when he left a note on his nightstand addressed to the King, and boarded an airship to the remote prison island of Irgalath.
To this day, he does not know what the King had said to the man who held the position of Warden at that time. When Hark disembarked his airship, he turned himself in. He fully expected, and was willing, to spend the rest of his life in prison for abandoning his post. The Warden put a sword in his hand instead. That man took him to the mat for two years until Hark could hold his own against the brutal fighting styles of the criminal underworld.
An interceptor closed in, pulling up alongside the older airship as Hark put up his hand in greeting. The interceptor airships of the Capital City were a more recent design. They were built for speed and delivering strategic blows using hit and run tactics. Despite Harks gesture of peace, he could see the interceptors two broadside cannons were manned. A man who wore the uniform of a high ranking official grabbed a golden bangle on his wrist, and his voice boomed out across the divide.
"Unknown vessel, we have no flight record of your arrival. You are trespassing in Violus airspace. Divert course now, or make peace with your gods."
A relic! Hark thought, and from the reactions of the rest of the crew, they were equally awed to see someone openly use the prowess. Is that...
"Cousin!" Hark bellowed out, struggling to carry his voice over the combined roar of the airship engines. The Captain of the interceptor gestured to one of his men, who handed him a spyglass. He peered through, and Hark saw recognition register on his face, followed by a wide grin.
"Proceed to docking bay five. Mooring nine," the man said.
"You owe me a drink, Harkenon."
I wish he hadn't used my full name, Hark thought.
The rest of the flight to the docking bay was short, but the crew was already acting weird around him. There was a reason he went by 'Hark'. While not a common name, it did sound like a commoner name. His full name was clearly royal. His mother had given it to him in secret, and had him named formally at temple before his father could deny the choice. She used to tell him that the King was furious when he found out. While still of a noble line, she was not Queen, and Hark could never be his heir.
The choice his mother made was not by virtue of ambition, or ego. He was born early, and during a conjunction; when all the planets aligned in the heavens. His memories of his mother were distant now, but Hark will never forget her description of what she felt when her only son first opened his eyes. A feeling he learned a name for during his studies at Violus after he was taken from her.
The touch of the prowess.
Hark was deep in thought as he stepped off the airship ramp onto the dock, but no sooner had his feet hit the stone, than he was wrapped in an embrace and lifted up off of them.
"Torvinad!" Hark said through a strained breath. "It's been too long, cousin." The man put Hark down and straightened out his jacket. "It's Fleet Commander Torvinad to most, you scoundrel," he said, winking. Hark could not help but smile. Torvinad always had that effect on him growing up. As son of the Kings brother, they had both been trained under Loremaster Toval at the same time. Leaving his best friend behind was the hardest part of Harks exodus, and he missed him dearly.
The pair walked down the dock towards the tall marble pillars on either side of the entrance to the docking bay of the city. The docking bay opened up into an industrial district, beyond which was the commons. A noble district was perched above the commons on a tier below the palace district, surrounding and including the great central spire of the city. Hark was relieved when a carriage pulled up at the gate. Torvinad clapped Hark on the shoulders.
"Didn't think I'd make you walk, did you?" he said, laughing. They got into the carriage and it sped off down the road. There was a much higher military presence in the city than Hark remembered, and something else was bothering him.
"Do they always send the Fleet Commander out to investigate stray airships?" he asked. Torvinad tensed, and some of the mirth fled from his features. "Oh, we don't have to talk about all that business yet, do we?" he replied. "How have you been, Hark? Any lady friends on that island of yours?" he asked, smirking and cocking his eyebrows up and down. Don't you dare, Hark thought, threatening the rising heat under his collar. "Not much time for that, I'm afraid," he said. The smile on Torvinads face grew wider. "Your cheeks tell a different tale, my friend."
Hark raised a finger to protest, but his cousin cut him off. "Over drinks, Hark! Be gentle with me, I can only take so much of your bashful charm at once," he said, but his smile dropped as he studied his cousins face. "What is it?" he asked. Hark met his eyes, unable to mask the grim anticipation of his purpose in Violus. "Our drink will have to wait, Tor," he said.
"I need to speak with my father."
2023.06.01 06:17 Supr3m3LeaderKyloRen WHO KILLED MARKIPLIER ANIMATED LOOKING FOR ANIMATOR FANS!
Every Markiplier fan, I need your help on a special project/ animation for the anniversary of the original Who Killed Markiplier, but I'm turning it into an animated series or chapter videos within which there are many lore, secrets, and other things. But the big problem is that I can't seem to get any animators, so if any of you are willing to volunteer to help out, we would be glad. So come join our Discord server to meet the voice actors and, of course, me, Supr3m3LeaderKyloRen, the owner, to get more information about it, for which I will be setting events each month for new members. So please join, and let's show Markiplier our love for him from the day he started to now! LINK TO MY DISCORD SERVER FOR INFORMATION ON THE PROJECT: https://discord.gg/jY4AcVEsg5
submitted by Supr3m3LeaderKyloRen to Markiplier [link] [comments]
2023.06.01 05:42 Guilty_Chemistry9337 Hide Behind the Cypress Tree, pt. 2
They didn’t tell us the name of the next kid that disappeared. They didn’t tell us another kid had disappeared at all. We could all tell by the silence what had happened. It spoke volumes. I’m sure they talked about it in great detail amongst themselves. In PTA meetings and City Councils. My parents made sure to turn off the TV at 5 o’clock before the news came on, at least in my home. They’d turn it back on for the 11 o’clock news, when were were in bed and couldn’t hear the details.
The strange thing is, they never told us to just stop going outside. They told us to go in groups, sure, but they never decided, or as far as I could tell even though, to keep us all indoors. I guess that sort of freedom wasn’t something they were willing to give up. Instead, they did the neighborhood watch thing. For those few months, I remember my folks meeting more of our neighbors than in all the time previously, or since. Retirees would spend their days out in their front lawns, watching kids and everybody else coming and going. They’d even set up lawn furniture, with umbrellas, even all through the rains of spring. Cops stopped sitting in ambushes on the highways waiting for speeders and instead started patrolling the streets, chatting with us as we’d pass by. Weekends would see all the adults out in their yards, working on cars in the driveways, fixing the gutters, and so on. They had this weird way of looking at you as you’d ride by. Not hostile stares, but it was like they were cataloging your presence. Boy, eight years old, red raincoat silver bike, about 11:30 in the morning, heading south on Sorensen. Seemed fine.
The next time we saw it, it wasn’t in our neighborhood, and I was the one who saw it first. We were visiting Russ, a sort of 5th semi-friend from school. We rarely hung out, mostly owing to geography. His house wasn’t far as the crow flies, but it was up a steep hill. We spent a Saturday afternoon returning a cache of comic books we’d borrowed. The distance we covered was substantial, as we had decided to take lots of extra streets as switchbacks, rather than slowly push our bikes up the too-steep hills.
The descent was going to be the highlight of the trip, up until I saw the Hidebehind. We were on a curving road, a steep forested bluff on one side. The uphill slope was mostly ivy-covered raised foundations for the neighborhood’s houses. That side of the road was lined with parked cars, and the residents of the homes had to ascend steep staircases to get to their front doors.
I was ayt the back of the pack when I caught movement out of the corner of my eye. Movement, something brown squatting between two closely parked cars. My head snapped as I zoomed past, and despite not getting a good look, I knew it was that terrible thing. “It’s behind us!” I shouted and started pedaling hard. The others looked for themselves as I quickly rushed past them, but they soon joined my pace.
Ralph’s earlier idea of directly confronting the thing was set aside. We were moving too fast, and down too narrow a street to turn around. Then we saw it again it was to our left, off-road, between the trees. Suddenly it leaped from behind one tree trunk to the next and disappeared again. That hardly made sense, the base of the trees must have been thirty feet below the deck of the street we rode down. One of us, I think it was India, let out one of those strangled screams.
There it was again, back on the right, disappearing behind a mailbox as we approached. That couldn’t have been, it must have outpaced us and crossed in front of us. Logic would suggest there was more than one, but somehow the four of us knew it was the same thing. More impossible still, the pole holding up the mailbox was too thin, maybe two inches in diameter, yet that thing had disappeared behind it, like a Warner Bros. cartoon character. It was just enough to catch a better glimpse of it though. All brown. A head seemingly too bulbous and large for its body. Its limbs were thin but far longer, like a gibbon’s. Only a gibbon had normal elbows and knees. This thing bent its joints all wrong like it wasn’t part of the natural order. We were all terrified to wit’s end.
“The trail!” Ralph shouted, and the other three of us knew exactly what he meant. The top of it was only just around the curve. It was a dirt footpath for pedestrians ascending and descending South Hill, cutting through the woods on our left. It was too steep for cars, and to be honest, too steep for bikes. We’d played on it before, challenging each other to see how high up they could go, then descend back down without using our brakes. A short paved cul-de-sac at the bottom was enough space to stop before running into a cross street.
Ralph had held the previous group record, having climbed three-quarters of the way before starting his mad drop. India’s best was just short of that, I had only dared about halfway up, Ben only a third. This time, with certain death on our heels, the trail seemed the only way out. Nothing could have outrun a kid on a bike flying down that hill.
We followed Ralph’s lead, swinging to the right gutter of the street, then hanging a fast wide left up onto the curb, over a patch of gravel, between two boulders set up as bollards, lest a car driver mistake the entrance for a driveway, and then, like a roller coaster cresting the first hill, the bottom fell out.
It was the most overwhelming sensation of motion I’ve ever had, before or since. I suppose the danger behind us was the big reason, and being absolutely certain that only our speed was keeping us alive. I remember thinking it was like the speeder bike scene from Return of the Jedi, also a recent movie from the time. Only this was real. I didn’t just see the trees flashing past it, I could hear the motion as well. Cold air attacked my eyes and long streamers of tears rushed over my cheeks and the drops flew past my ears, I didn’t dare blink. Each little stone my tires struck threatened to up-end me and end it all. Yet, and perhaps worse, half the time it felt like I wasn’t in contact with the ground at all. I was going so fast that those same small stones were sending me an inch or two into the air, and the arc of the flights so closely matched the slope that by the time I contacted the trail again, I was significantly further down the hill.
At the same time, I had never felt more relief, as the thing behind us had no way of catching us now. Somehow, maybe the seriousness of the escape gave us both the motive and the seriousness to keep ourselves under control. Looking back, I marvel that at least one of us didn’t lose control and end up splitting our skulls open.
We hit the pavement of the cul-de-sac below, and didn’t bother to slow down. We raced through the cross-street, one angry driver screeching to a halt and laying on his horn. This brought out the neighborhood watch. Just a few of them at first. Still, we didn’t slow down, our momentum carried us back up the much shallower slope of our neighborhood. Witnesses saw us depart at high speed, and this only brought out more of the watch. We heard whistles behind us, just like our P.E. teacher’s whistle. We figured that was the watch’s alarm siren. Regardless of what happened to that thing, it was behind us. We returned to our homes, shaken, but safe and sound, our inertia taking us almost all of the way there.
Another kid disappeared that Sunday, up on South Hill. We’d suspected it because we could see the lights of the police cars on a high road, surrounding the spot where it would turn out later, one of the kid’s shoes had been found. Russ confirmed it at school on Monday. It was a kid he’d known, lived down the road from his place, went to private school which is why we didn’t recognize his name.
I remember seeing Ralph’s face the next day when he arrived at school. He looked angry. Strong. Like he’d been crying really hard, and now it was over and he was resolved. He said he’d felt guilty because the thing we’d escaped from had gotten the other kid instead. He tried to tell his old man about it, then his mom, then any adult he could. He’d tell them about the monster who hides behind things. They needed to focus on finding and stopping that instead of looking for some sort of creeper or serial killer. Of course, nobody had listened to him. They hadn’t listened to the rest of us either when we’d tried to tell.
So he’d devised a plan. He was calling it the “Fight Patrol,” which we didn’t argue with. If the adults wouldn’t do something, we would. We’d patrol our neighborhood on our bikes, the four of us, maybe a couple more if we could talk others into it. We’d chase it off like that first time, maybe for good, or maybe corner it. Clearly, it could not handle being caught.
Naturally, we brought up the scare on South Hill. He argued that was a bad place. Too isolated, couldn’t turn around easily. We needed to stay on our home turf, lots of visibility, and plenty of the Neighborhood Watch within earshot. Maybe we and the adults working together was the key, even if the adults didn’t understand the problem.
Well, that convinced us. Our first patrol was that afternoon, after school. We watched everybody’s back like hawks. Nothing had a chance to sneak up on us. Nothing could step out from behind a bush without getting spotted. By Friday afternoon there were eight of us. The next week we split up to extend our territory to the next neighborhoods over.
Nothing happened. We never saw anything. Ben thought it was because we were scaring it away. Ralph just thought we were failing, and took it personally. I myself thought the thing had just moved to different parts of town, where the new disappearances were taking place. I told him we should keep it up until the thing was caught.
It was all for naught.
One day, India didn’t show up for school. I asked everybody, the teachers, the office staff, the custodian, my parents. All of them said they didn’t know, and it was so easy to tell that they were lying. That would mark the end of the Fight Patrol.
Ben didn’t show up a couple of days after that. When I got home and collapsed into bed, my mother came in to tell me that Ben’s mother had called. She’d taken him out of school and they were moving elsewhere. I called up Ralph to let him know the news, and he was relieved too.
My last day was Friday, and then I was taken out. Again, I called Ralph so he wouldn’t worry. I guess when there were only two weeks left of school, and it was just grade school, a couple missed weeks don’t amount to much. So I ended up spending the bulk of the summer out in the country, with my grandparents, which was why I brought up my grandpa in the first place.
I suppose I did fine out on their farmhouse. I was safe. There was certainly no shortage of things for a kid to do. I think my mom felt a strong sense of relief too. Things slipped through the cracks.
My grandparents didn’t have cable, too far out of town. They just had an old-school antenna and got a couple of TV stations transmitting out of Canada, Vancouver specifically. I remember one July day, sitting in their living room. My grandmother had just fixed lunch for me and my grandfather and had gone out to do some gardening as we watched the news at noon.
My grandfather was already being ravaged by his illnesses. He was able to get around, but couldn’t do any real labor anymore. He’d lounge in front of the TV in a special lounge chair. He hardly talked, and when he did he’d just mumble some discomfort or complaint to my grandma.
The lead story on the news was the current situation in Farmingham, despite being in the neighboring country, it was still big news in Vancouver, and the whole rest of the region. It seemed the disappearances were declining, but the police were still frantically searching for a supposed serial killer. I didn’t pick up much about what they were talking about, I was a kid after all, but my grandfather was watching intently, despite his infirmity.
He mumbled something, I didn’t catch. I asked him was he said, and as I approached I heard him say “fearsome critters.”
He turned his eyes to me and said again, distinct and in a normal tone of voice, “fearsome critters,” then returned his attention to the screen. “I don’t know why they call them that. Fearsome, sure. But ‘critters?” Makes it sound silly. Like it's some sort of fairy tale that it ain’t. Guess it’s like whistling past the graveyard. Well, they don’t have to worry about them no more, guess they can call them what they like.”
Then he turned to me. “Do you know what it is?” he asked. “Squonk? Hodag? Gouger? Hidebehind?”
“Hidebehind,” I whispered, and he turned back to the TV with a sneer. I had no idea what on earth he was talking about. Remember, this would be years before I learned he spent his youth as a lumberjack. And yet, somehow, I knew exactly what we were talking about.
“Hidebehind,” he repeated. “That will do it. They give them such stupid names. The folk back East, that is. Wisconsin. Minnesota. Ohio. Way back in the old days, before my grandfather would have been your age. Back when those places were covered by forests. They didn’t give them silly names back then, no. Back then they were something to worry about. Then they moved on, though. They all went out West, to here, followed the loggers. So as once they didn’t have to worry about them anymore, they started making up silly stories, silly names. “Fearsome critters,” they’d call them. Just tall tales to tell the greenhorns and scare them out of their britches. Then they’d make them even sillier, and tell the stories to little kids to spook them.”
“Not out here they didn’t tell no stories nor make up any names. It was bad enough they followed us out. I had no clue they even existed until I saw one for myself. Bout your age, I suppose. Maybe a little older. Nobody ever talks about them. Not even when they take apart a work crew, one by one. They just pull the crews back. Wait till mid-summer when the land is dry but not too dry. Then they move the crews in, a lot of them. Do some burning, make a lot of smoke. Drives them deeper into the woods, you know. Then you can cut the whole damn place down. But nobody asks why, nobody tells why. The people who know just take care of it.”
“I guess that’s why they’re coming to us now. All the old woods are almost gone. So they’ve got to. Like mountain lions. I supposed it’s going to happen sooner or later.”
We heard my grandma come into the back door to the utility room, and stomp the dirt off her boots. My grandfather turned to me one last time and said, “Whichever way you look at it, somebody’s just got to take care of it.” Then my grandmother came in from the utility room and asked us how our lunch had been.
Now that I look back at it, that might have been the last time my grandfather and I really had a meaningful talk.
We moved back home in late August. I had been having a fantastic summer. Though looking back, I suppose it could be rough for a still-young woman to be living in her aging parents' house when she’s got a perfectly good husband and house of her own in town.
First thing I did was visit Ralph. He’d been busy. He’d fortified his treehouse into a proper, well, tree fort. He’d nailed a lot of reinforcing plywood over everything. He hadn’t gone out on patrols by himself, of course, but the height of the tree fort afforded him a view of the nearest streets. He’d also made some makeshift weapons out of old baseball bats, a hockey stick, and a garden rake. The sharp rocks he’d attached to them with masking tape didn’t look very secure, but it’d only take one or two good blows with that kind of firepower. He also explained he’d been teaching himself kung fu, by copying all the movies he saw on kung fu movies late at night on the unpopular cable channels. That was classic Ralph.
As for the monster, it seemed to be going away. Its last victim had disappeared weeks previously, part of the reason my mom felt it was time to go back. This had been at night too. What’s more, the victim had been a college student, a very petite lady, barely five feet tall, under a hundred pounds. The news had speculated that their presumptive serial killer had assumed she was a child. I remember thinking the Hidebehind didn’t care. Maybe it just thought she couldn’t run fast enough to get away or put up a fight when he caught her. Like a predator.
At any rate, the college students were incensed. Of course, they’d been hyper-alert and concerned when it was just local kids going missing. Now that it was one of their own the camel’s back had broken. They really went hard on the protests, blaming the local police for not doing enough.
They started setting up their own patrols, and at night too. Marches with sometimes dozens of students at a time. They called it “Take Back the Night.” They’d walk the streets, making sure they’d be heard. Some cared drums or tambourines. They’d help escort people home, and sometimes they’d unintentionally stop random crimes they’d happen across. I felt like this was what the Fight Patrol could have been, if we’d just been old enough, or had been listened to. This would be the endgame for the Hidebehind, one way or another.
I stayed indoors the rest of the summer, and really there wasn’t much left. It doesn’t get too hot in the Pacific Northwest, nobody has air conditioners, or at least we didn’t back then. It will get stuffy though, in August, and I liked to sleep with my window open. I could hear the chants and challenges from the student patrols on their various routes. Sometimes I could hear them coming from far away, and every now and then they’d pass down my street. It felt like a wonderful security blanket.
I also liked the honeysuckle my mother had planted around the perimeter of the house. Late at night, if I was struggling to fall asleep, the air in my bedroom would start to circulate. Cold air would start pouring in over my windowsill, bringing the sweet scent of that creepervine with it, and I’d the sensation before finally passing out.
This one night, and I have no knowledge if I was awake, asleep, or drifting off, but the air in the room changed, and cooler air poured over the windowsill and swept over my bed, but it didn’t carry the sweet smell of honeysuckle. Regardless of my initial state, I was alert pretty quickly. It was a singularly unpleasant smell. A bit like death, which at that age I was mostly unfamiliar with, except a time some animal had died underneath the crawlspace of our house. There was more to it, though. The forest, the deep forest. I don’t know and still don’t know, what that meant. Most smells I associate with the forest are pleasant. Cedar, pine needles, thick loam of the forest floor, campfires, even the creosote and turpentine of those old timey-logging camps. This was none of those smells. Maybe… rotting granite, and the spores of slime molds. Mummified hemlocks and beds of needles compressed into something different than soil. It disturbed me.
So I sat up in bed. I hadn’t noticed before, but I’d been sweating, just lightly in the stuffy summer night heat. Now it was turning cold. Before me was my bedroom window. A lit rectangle in a pitch-dark room. To either side were my white, opened curtains, the one on the right, by the open half of the window, stirred just slightly in the barely perceptible breeze.
Most of the rectangle was the black form of the protective cypress tree. Only the slight conical nature of the tree distinguished it from a perfectly vertical column. To either side was a dim soft orange glow coming from the sodium lamps of the street passing by our house. It was perhaps a bit diffuse from the screen set in my window to keep out mosquitos. In the distance was the sound of an approaching troupe of the Take Back the Night patrol. They were neither drumming nor chanting, but still making plenty of noise. They were, perhaps, three or four blocks away, and heading my way.
For some reason that I didn’t understand, I got up, off of the foot of the bed. The window, being closer, appeared bigger. I took a silent step further. The patrol approached closer. Another step. I leaned to my right, just a bit, getting a slightly wider view to the left of the cypress tree. That was the direction the patrol was coming from.
That was when it resolved. The deeper black silhouette within the black silhouette of the cypress tree. A small lithe frame with a too-bulbous head. It too leaned, in its case, to the left, to see around the cypress tree as the patrol approached. They reached our block,on the other side of the street. A dozen rowdy college students, not trying to be quiet. None of them fearing the night. Each feeling safe and determined, and absorbed in their own night out rather than being overtly sensitive to their surroundings. They were distracted, unfocused If they had been peering into the shadows, if just one of them had looked towards my house, behind the cypress tree, they might have seen the Hidebehind, poking its face out and watching them transit past. But they didn’t notice.
It hid behind the cypress tree, and I hid behind it, hoping that the blackness of my bedroom would protect me. I stood absolutely still, as I had done once when a hornet had once landed on the back of my neck. Totally assure that if I made the slightest movement or made the slightest sound that I’d be stung. I hardly even breathed.
The patrol passed, from my perspective, behind the cypress tree and temporarily out of view. The Hidebehind straightened, ready to lean to the right and watch the patrol pass, only it didn’t lean. Even as I watched the patrol pass on to the right, it stood there, stock still, just as I was doing.
It was then I became aware that my room had become stuffy again. The scent was gone. The air had shifted and was now flowing out through the screen again, carrying my own scent with it. I knew what this meant, and yet I was too paralyzed to react. The thing started to turn, very slowly. It was a predator understanding that it might have become victim to its own game. It turned as if it was thinking the same thing I had been thinking, that the slightest movement might give it away.
It turned, and I saw its face. Like some kind of rotting desiccated, shriveling fruit, it was covered in wrinkles. Circles within concentric circles surrounded its two great eyes, eyes which took up so much of its face. I couldn’t, and still struggle, to think of words to describe it. Instead, I still think in terms of analogies. At the time I thought of the creature from the film E.T., only twisted and distorted into a thing of nightmares. Almost all eyelids, and a little drooping sucker mouth. Now that I’m more worldly, it reminds of creatures of ancient artworks. The key defining feature were the long horizontal slits it had for eyes. You see that in old masks carved in West Africa, or by the Inuit long ago. You see it in what’s called the “slit-eyed dogu” of ancient Japan.
As I watched the wrinkles on the face seemed to multiply. Then I realized this was the result of its eyes slowly widening. It’s mouth, too, slowly dilated, revealing innumerable small razor-sharp teeth. A person, standing in its location, shouldn’t have been able to see in. Light from the sodium streetlamps lit the window’s screen, obscuring the interior. It was no person. It could see me, and it was reacting to my presence. Its eyes grew huge, black.
My own eyes would have been just as wide if not for my own anatomical limitations. I was still watching when it disappeared. It didn’t see it move to the right. I didn’t see it move to the left, nor did I see it drop down out of view. It simply disappeared. One fraction of a second it was there, and then it decided to leave, and so it did. It was not a thing of this world.
There were no more disappearances after that poor woman from the university. I don’t think it had anything to do with me. The media and police all speculated their “serial killer” had gone into a “dormant phase”. There was no shortage of people who tried to take credit. Maybe they deserve it. The thing’s hunting had been on the decline. All the neighborhood watches and student patrols, I think that maybe all that commotion was making it too hard for the Hidebehind to go about its business. Maybe it had gone back to the woods.
Then again, maybe Ralph had been right the whole time. Maybe it really, really, really didn’t like to be seen.
So.
Now I’ve got some decisions to make. I think the first thing I should do is look at social media and dig up Ralph. It’s been a good thirty years since I last talked to him. He ought to know the Hidebehind is back. He’s probably made plans.
Then, there’s the issue of my son. He’s up in his bedroom now, probably still mad at me. Probably confused about why I’d be so strict. Maybe he’s inventing explanations as to why.
I’m not sure, but I’m leaning toward telling him everything. He deserves to know. It’d probably be safer if he knows. I think people have this instinct where, when they see or know something that they’re not supposed to know, they just bottle it up. I think that was the problem with grown-ups when I was a kid. It was the issue with my grandfather, telling me so little when it was almost too late. I think people do it because we’re social animals, and we’re afraid of being ostracized. Go along to get along.
Hell, my son is probably going to think I’m crazy. It might even make him more mad at me. And even more confused. He knows about the disappearances. “The Farmingham Fiend” the media would end up dubbing the serial killer that didn’t really exist. It’s become local “true crime” history. Kids tell rumors about it. It was almost forty years ago, so it probably feels safe to wonder about.
So yeah, I suppose when I say I know who the real killer was, a magical monster from the woods that stalks its prey by hiding behind objects, then impossibly disappears- that I’m going to look like a total nut. I’d think that if I were in his shoes.
Except… people are going to start disappearing again, it’s only a matter of time. The media will say that the Farmingham Fiend is back in the game. Will my son buy that? He’ll start thinking about what I told him, and how I predicted it. Then he’ll remember that he saw the thing himself, he and his friends, even if it was just out of the corner of his eye.
I hope, sooner or later, he’ll believe me. I could use his help. Maybe Ralph is way ahead of me, but I’m thinking we should get the Fight Patrol back together. Father and son, this time. Multigenerational, get the retirees involved too.
Old farts of my generation, for reasons I don’t understand, like to wax nostalgic over their own false sense of superiority. We rode our bikes without helmets and had distant if not irresponsible parents. Yeah, yeah, what a load. I think every new generation is better than the last, because every generation is a progression from the last, Kids these days? They’ve got cell phones, with cameras. And helmet cams. GoPros you can attach to bikes. Doorbell cameras.
It seems the Hidebehind loathes being seen. This time around, with my grandfather’s spirit, my own memories, and my boy’s energy? I think this time we’re finally going to beat it.
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The strange thing is, they never told us to just stop going outside. They told us to go in groups, sure, but they never decided, or as far as I could tell even though, to keep us all indoors. I guess that sort of freedom wasn’t something they were willing to give up. Instead, they did the neighborhood watch thing. For those few months, I remember my folks meeting more of our neighbors than in all the time previously, or since. Retirees would spend their days out in their front lawns, watching kids and everybody else coming and going. They’d even set up lawn furniture, with umbrellas, even all through the rains of spring. Cops stopped sitting in ambushes on the highways waiting for speeders and instead started patrolling the streets, chatting with us as we’d pass by. Weekends would see all the adults out in their yards, working on cars in the driveways, fixing the gutters, and so on. They had this weird way of looking at you as you’d ride by. Not hostile stares, but it was like they were cataloging your presence. Boy, eight years old, red raincoat silver bike, about 11:30 in the morning, heading south on Sorensen. Seemed fine.
The next time we saw it, it wasn’t in our neighborhood, and I was the one who saw it first. We were visiting Russ, a sort of 5th semi-friend from school. We rarely hung out, mostly owing to geography. His house wasn’t far as the crow flies, but it was up a steep hill. We spent a Saturday afternoon returning a cache of comic books we’d borrowed. The distance we covered was substantial, as we had decided to take lots of extra streets as switchbacks, rather than slowly push our bikes up the too-steep hills.
The descent was going to be the highlight of the trip, up until I saw the Hidebehind. We were on a curving road, a steep forested bluff on one side. The uphill slope was mostly ivy-covered raised foundations for the neighborhood’s houses. That side of the road was lined with parked cars, and the residents of the homes had to ascend steep staircases to get to their front doors.
I was ayt the back of the pack when I caught movement out of the corner of my eye. Movement, something brown squatting between two closely parked cars. My head snapped as I zoomed past, and despite not getting a good look, I knew it was that terrible thing. “It’s behind us!” I shouted and started pedaling hard. The others looked for themselves as I quickly rushed past them, but they soon joined my pace.
Ralph’s earlier idea of directly confronting the thing was set aside. We were moving too fast, and down too narrow a street to turn around. Then we saw it again it was to our left, off-road, between the trees. Suddenly it leaped from behind one tree trunk to the next and disappeared again. That hardly made sense, the base of the trees must have been thirty feet below the deck of the street we rode down. One of us, I think it was India, let out one of those strangled screams.
There it was again, back on the right, disappearing behind a mailbox as we approached. That couldn’t have been, it must have outpaced us and crossed in front of us. Logic would suggest there was more than one, but somehow the four of us knew it was the same thing. More impossible still, the pole holding up the mailbox was too thin, maybe two inches in diameter, yet that thing had disappeared behind it, like a Warner Bros. cartoon character. It was just enough to catch a better glimpse of it though. All brown. A head seemingly too bulbous and large for its body. Its limbs were thin but far longer, like a gibbon’s. Only a gibbon had normal elbows and knees. This thing bent its joints all wrong like it wasn’t part of the natural order. We were all terrified to wit’s end.
“The trail!” Ralph shouted, and the other three of us knew exactly what he meant. The top of it was only just around the curve. It was a dirt footpath for pedestrians ascending and descending South Hill, cutting through the woods on our left. It was too steep for cars, and to be honest, too steep for bikes. We’d played on it before, challenging each other to see how high up they could go, then descend back down without using our brakes. A short paved cul-de-sac at the bottom was enough space to stop before running into a cross street.
Ralph had held the previous group record, having climbed three-quarters of the way before starting his mad drop. India’s best was just short of that, I had only dared about halfway up, Ben only a third. This time, with certain death on our heels, the trail seemed the only way out. Nothing could have outrun a kid on a bike flying down that hill.
We followed Ralph’s lead, swinging to the right gutter of the street, then hanging a fast wide left up onto the curb, over a patch of gravel, between two boulders set up as bollards, lest a car driver mistake the entrance for a driveway, and then, like a roller coaster cresting the first hill, the bottom fell out.
It was the most overwhelming sensation of motion I’ve ever had, before or since. I suppose the danger behind us was the big reason, and being absolutely certain that only our speed was keeping us alive. I remember thinking it was like the speeder bike scene from Return of the Jedi, also a recent movie from the time. Only this was real. I didn’t just see the trees flashing past it, I could hear the motion as well. Cold air attacked my eyes and long streamers of tears rushed over my cheeks and the drops flew past my ears, I didn’t dare blink. Each little stone my tires struck threatened to up-end me and end it all. Yet, and perhaps worse, half the time it felt like I wasn’t in contact with the ground at all. I was going so fast that those same small stones were sending me an inch or two into the air, and the arc of the flights so closely matched the slope that by the time I contacted the trail again, I was significantly further down the hill.
At the same time, I had never felt more relief, as the thing behind us had no way of catching us now. Somehow, maybe the seriousness of the escape gave us both the motive and the seriousness to keep ourselves under control. Looking back, I marvel that at least one of us didn’t lose control and end up splitting our skulls open.
We hit the pavement of the cul-de-sac below, and didn’t bother to slow down. We raced through the cross-street, one angry driver screeching to a halt and laying on his horn. This brought out the neighborhood watch. Just a few of them at first. Still, we didn’t slow down, our momentum carried us back up the much shallower slope of our neighborhood. Witnesses saw us depart at high speed, and this only brought out more of the watch. We heard whistles behind us, just like our P.E. teacher’s whistle. We figured that was the watch’s alarm siren. Regardless of what happened to that thing, it was behind us. We returned to our homes, shaken, but safe and sound, our inertia taking us almost all of the way there.
Another kid disappeared that Sunday, up on South Hill. We’d suspected it because we could see the lights of the police cars on a high road, surrounding the spot where it would turn out later, one of the kid’s shoes had been found. Russ confirmed it at school on Monday. It was a kid he’d known, lived down the road from his place, went to private school which is why we didn’t recognize his name.
I remember seeing Ralph’s face the next day when he arrived at school. He looked angry. Strong. Like he’d been crying really hard, and now it was over and he was resolved. He said he’d felt guilty because the thing we’d escaped from had gotten the other kid instead. He tried to tell his old man about it, then his mom, then any adult he could. He’d tell them about the monster who hides behind things. They needed to focus on finding and stopping that instead of looking for some sort of creeper or serial killer. Of course, nobody had listened to him. They hadn’t listened to the rest of us either when we’d tried to tell.
So he’d devised a plan. He was calling it the “Fight Patrol,” which we didn’t argue with. If the adults wouldn’t do something, we would. We’d patrol our neighborhood on our bikes, the four of us, maybe a couple more if we could talk others into it. We’d chase it off like that first time, maybe for good, or maybe corner it. Clearly, it could not handle being caught.
Naturally, we brought up the scare on South Hill. He argued that was a bad place. Too isolated, couldn’t turn around easily. We needed to stay on our home turf, lots of visibility, and plenty of the Neighborhood Watch within earshot. Maybe we and the adults working together was the key, even if the adults didn’t understand the problem.
Well, that convinced us. Our first patrol was that afternoon, after school. We watched everybody’s back like hawks. Nothing had a chance to sneak up on us. Nothing could step out from behind a bush without getting spotted. By Friday afternoon there were eight of us. The next week we split up to extend our territory to the next neighborhoods over.
Nothing happened. We never saw anything. Ben thought it was because we were scaring it away. Ralph just thought we were failing, and took it personally. I myself thought the thing had just moved to different parts of town, where the new disappearances were taking place. I told him we should keep it up until the thing was caught.
It was all for naught.
One day, India didn’t show up for school. I asked everybody, the teachers, the office staff, the custodian, my parents. All of them said they didn’t know, and it was so easy to tell that they were lying. That would mark the end of the Fight Patrol.
Ben didn’t show up a couple of days after that. When I got home and collapsed into bed, my mother came in to tell me that Ben’s mother had called. She’d taken him out of school and they were moving elsewhere. I called up Ralph to let him know the news, and he was relieved too.
My last day was Friday, and then I was taken out. Again, I called Ralph so he wouldn’t worry. I guess when there were only two weeks left of school, and it was just grade school, a couple missed weeks don’t amount to much. So I ended up spending the bulk of the summer out in the country, with my grandparents, which was why I brought up my grandpa in the first place.
I suppose I did fine out on their farmhouse. I was safe. There was certainly no shortage of things for a kid to do. I think my mom felt a strong sense of relief too. Things slipped through the cracks.
My grandparents didn’t have cable, too far out of town. They just had an old-school antenna and got a couple of TV stations transmitting out of Canada, Vancouver specifically. I remember one July day, sitting in their living room. My grandmother had just fixed lunch for me and my grandfather and had gone out to do some gardening as we watched the news at noon.
My grandfather was already being ravaged by his illnesses. He was able to get around, but couldn’t do any real labor anymore. He’d lounge in front of the TV in a special lounge chair. He hardly talked, and when he did he’d just mumble some discomfort or complaint to my grandma.
The lead story on the news was the current situation in Farmingham, despite being in the neighboring country, it was still big news in Vancouver, and the whole rest of the region. It seemed the disappearances were declining, but the police were still frantically searching for a supposed serial killer. I didn’t pick up much about what they were talking about, I was a kid after all, but my grandfather was watching intently, despite his infirmity.
He mumbled something, I didn’t catch. I asked him was he said, and as I approached I heard him say “fearsome critters.”
He turned his eyes to me and said again, distinct and in a normal tone of voice, “fearsome critters,” then returned his attention to the screen. “I don’t know why they call them that. Fearsome, sure. But ‘critters?” Makes it sound silly. Like it's some sort of fairy tale that it ain’t. Guess it’s like whistling past the graveyard. Well, they don’t have to worry about them no more, guess they can call them what they like.”
Then he turned to me. “Do you know what it is?” he asked. “Squonk? Hodag? Gouger? Hidebehind?”
“Hidebehind,” I whispered, and he turned back to the TV with a sneer. I had no idea what on earth he was talking about. Remember, this would be years before I learned he spent his youth as a lumberjack. And yet, somehow, I knew exactly what we were talking about.
“Hidebehind,” he repeated. “That will do it. They give them such stupid names. The folk back East, that is. Wisconsin. Minnesota. Ohio. Way back in the old days, before my grandfather would have been your age. Back when those places were covered by forests. They didn’t give them silly names back then, no. Back then they were something to worry about. Then they moved on, though. They all went out West, to here, followed the loggers. So as once they didn’t have to worry about them anymore, they started making up silly stories, silly names. “Fearsome critters,” they’d call them. Just tall tales to tell the greenhorns and scare them out of their britches. Then they’d make them even sillier, and tell the stories to little kids to spook them.”
“Not out here they didn’t tell no stories nor make up any names. It was bad enough they followed us out. I had no clue they even existed until I saw one for myself. Bout your age, I suppose. Maybe a little older. Nobody ever talks about them. Not even when they take apart a work crew, one by one. They just pull the crews back. Wait till mid-summer when the land is dry but not too dry. Then they move the crews in, a lot of them. Do some burning, make a lot of smoke. Drives them deeper into the woods, you know. Then you can cut the whole damn place down. But nobody asks why, nobody tells why. The people who know just take care of it.”
“I guess that’s why they’re coming to us now. All the old woods are almost gone. So they’ve got to. Like mountain lions. I supposed it’s going to happen sooner or later.”
We heard my grandma come into the back door to the utility room, and stomp the dirt off her boots. My grandfather turned to me one last time and said, “Whichever way you look at it, somebody’s just got to take care of it.” Then my grandmother came in from the utility room and asked us how our lunch had been.
Now that I look back at it, that might have been the last time my grandfather and I really had a meaningful talk.
We moved back home in late August. I had been having a fantastic summer. Though looking back, I suppose it could be rough for a still-young woman to be living in her aging parents' house when she’s got a perfectly good husband and house of her own in town.
First thing I did was visit Ralph. He’d been busy. He’d fortified his treehouse into a proper, well, tree fort. He’d nailed a lot of reinforcing plywood over everything. He hadn’t gone out on patrols by himself, of course, but the height of the tree fort afforded him a view of the nearest streets. He’d also made some makeshift weapons out of old baseball bats, a hockey stick, and a garden rake. The sharp rocks he’d attached to them with masking tape didn’t look very secure, but it’d only take one or two good blows with that kind of firepower. He also explained he’d been teaching himself kung fu, by copying all the movies he saw on kung fu movies late at night on the unpopular cable channels. That was classic Ralph.
As for the monster, it seemed to be going away. Its last victim had disappeared weeks previously, part of the reason my mom felt it was time to go back. This had been at night too. What’s more, the victim had been a college student, a very petite lady, barely five feet tall, under a hundred pounds. The news had speculated that their presumptive serial killer had assumed she was a child. I remember thinking the Hidebehind didn’t care. Maybe it just thought she couldn’t run fast enough to get away or put up a fight when he caught her. Like a predator.
At any rate, the college students were incensed. Of course, they’d been hyper-alert and concerned when it was just local kids going missing. Now that it was one of their own the camel’s back had broken. They really went hard on the protests, blaming the local police for not doing enough.
They started setting up their own patrols, and at night too. Marches with sometimes dozens of students at a time. They called it “Take Back the Night.” They’d walk the streets, making sure they’d be heard. Some cared drums or tambourines. They’d help escort people home, and sometimes they’d unintentionally stop random crimes they’d happen across. I felt like this was what the Fight Patrol could have been, if we’d just been old enough, or had been listened to. This would be the endgame for the Hidebehind, one way or another.
I stayed indoors the rest of the summer, and really there wasn’t much left. It doesn’t get too hot in the Pacific Northwest, nobody has air conditioners, or at least we didn’t back then. It will get stuffy though, in August, and I liked to sleep with my window open. I could hear the chants and challenges from the student patrols on their various routes. Sometimes I could hear them coming from far away, and every now and then they’d pass down my street. It felt like a wonderful security blanket.
I also liked the honeysuckle my mother had planted around the perimeter of the house. Late at night, if I was struggling to fall asleep, the air in my bedroom would start to circulate. Cold air would start pouring in over my windowsill, bringing the sweet scent of that creepervine with it, and I’d the sensation before finally passing out.
This one night, and I have no knowledge if I was awake, asleep, or drifting off, but the air in the room changed, and cooler air poured over the windowsill and swept over my bed, but it didn’t carry the sweet smell of honeysuckle. Regardless of my initial state, I was alert pretty quickly. It was a singularly unpleasant smell. A bit like death, which at that age I was mostly unfamiliar with, except a time some animal had died underneath the crawlspace of our house. There was more to it, though. The forest, the deep forest. I don’t know and still don’t know, what that meant. Most smells I associate with the forest are pleasant. Cedar, pine needles, thick loam of the forest floor, campfires, even the creosote and turpentine of those old timey-logging camps. This was none of those smells. Maybe… rotting granite, and the spores of slime molds. Mummified hemlocks and beds of needles compressed into something different than soil. It disturbed me.
So I sat up in bed. I hadn’t noticed before, but I’d been sweating, just lightly in the stuffy summer night heat. Now it was turning cold. Before me was my bedroom window. A lit rectangle in a pitch-dark room. To either side were my white, opened curtains, the one on the right, by the open half of the window, stirred just slightly in the barely perceptible breeze.
Most of the rectangle was the black form of the protective cypress tree. Only the slight conical nature of the tree distinguished it from a perfectly vertical column. To either side was a dim soft orange glow coming from the sodium lamps of the street passing by our house. It was perhaps a bit diffuse from the screen set in my window to keep out mosquitos. In the distance was the sound of an approaching troupe of the Take Back the Night patrol. They were neither drumming nor chanting, but still making plenty of noise. They were, perhaps, three or four blocks away, and heading my way.
For some reason that I didn’t understand, I got up, off of the foot of the bed. The window, being closer, appeared bigger. I took a silent step further. The patrol approached closer. Another step. I leaned to my right, just a bit, getting a slightly wider view to the left of the cypress tree. That was the direction the patrol was coming from.
That was when it resolved. The deeper black silhouette within the black silhouette of the cypress tree. A small lithe frame with a too-bulbous head. It too leaned, in its case, to the left, to see around the cypress tree as the patrol approached. They reached our block,on the other side of the street. A dozen rowdy college students, not trying to be quiet. None of them fearing the night. Each feeling safe and determined, and absorbed in their own night out rather than being overtly sensitive to their surroundings. They were distracted, unfocused If they had been peering into the shadows, if just one of them had looked towards my house, behind the cypress tree, they might have seen the Hidebehind, poking its face out and watching them transit past. But they didn’t notice.
It hid behind the cypress tree, and I hid behind it, hoping that the blackness of my bedroom would protect me. I stood absolutely still, as I had done once when a hornet had once landed on the back of my neck. Totally assure that if I made the slightest movement or made the slightest sound that I’d be stung. I hardly even breathed.
The patrol passed, from my perspective, behind the cypress tree and temporarily out of view. The Hidebehind straightened, ready to lean to the right and watch the patrol pass, only it didn’t lean. Even as I watched the patrol pass on to the right, it stood there, stock still, just as I was doing.
It was then I became aware that my room had become stuffy again. The scent was gone. The air had shifted and was now flowing out through the screen again, carrying my own scent with it. I knew what this meant, and yet I was too paralyzed to react. The thing started to turn, very slowly. It was a predator understanding that it might have become victim to its own game. It turned as if it was thinking the same thing I had been thinking, that the slightest movement might give it away.
It turned, and I saw its face. Like some kind of rotting desiccated, shriveling fruit, it was covered in wrinkles. Circles within concentric circles surrounded its two great eyes, eyes which took up so much of its face. I couldn’t, and still struggle, to think of words to describe it. Instead, I still think in terms of analogies. At the time I thought of the creature from the film E.T., only twisted and distorted into a thing of nightmares. Almost all eyelids, and a little drooping sucker mouth. Now that I’m more worldly, it reminds of creatures of ancient artworks. The key defining feature were the long horizontal slits it had for eyes. You see that in old masks carved in West Africa, or by the Inuit long ago. You see it in what’s called the “slit-eyed dogu” of ancient Japan.
As I watched the wrinkles on the face seemed to multiply. Then I realized this was the result of its eyes slowly widening. It’s mouth, too, slowly dilated, revealing innumerable small razor-sharp teeth. A person, standing in its location, shouldn’t have been able to see in. Light from the sodium streetlamps lit the window’s screen, obscuring the interior. It was no person. It could see me, and it was reacting to my presence. Its eyes grew huge, black.
My own eyes would have been just as wide if not for my own anatomical limitations. I was still watching when it disappeared. It didn’t see it move to the right. I didn’t see it move to the left, nor did I see it drop down out of view. It simply disappeared. One fraction of a second it was there, and then it decided to leave, and so it did. It was not a thing of this world.
There were no more disappearances after that poor woman from the university. I don’t think it had anything to do with me. The media and police all speculated their “serial killer” had gone into a “dormant phase”. There was no shortage of people who tried to take credit. Maybe they deserve it. The thing’s hunting had been on the decline. All the neighborhood watches and student patrols, I think that maybe all that commotion was making it too hard for the Hidebehind to go about its business. Maybe it had gone back to the woods.
Then again, maybe Ralph had been right the whole time. Maybe it really, really, really didn’t like to be seen.
So.
Now I’ve got some decisions to make. I think the first thing I should do is look at social media and dig up Ralph. It’s been a good thirty years since I last talked to him. He ought to know the Hidebehind is back. He’s probably made plans.
Then, there’s the issue of my son. He’s up in his bedroom now, probably still mad at me. Probably confused about why I’d be so strict. Maybe he’s inventing explanations as to why.
I’m not sure, but I’m leaning toward telling him everything. He deserves to know. It’d probably be safer if he knows. I think people have this instinct where, when they see or know something that they’re not supposed to know, they just bottle it up. I think that was the problem with grown-ups when I was a kid. It was the issue with my grandfather, telling me so little when it was almost too late. I think people do it because we’re social animals, and we’re afraid of being ostracized. Go along to get along.
Hell, my son is probably going to think I’m crazy. It might even make him more mad at me. And even more confused. He knows about the disappearances. “The Farmingham Fiend” the media would end up dubbing the serial killer that didn’t really exist. It’s become local “true crime” history. Kids tell rumors about it. It was almost forty years ago, so it probably feels safe to wonder about.
So yeah, I suppose when I say I know who the real killer was, a magical monster from the woods that stalks its prey by hiding behind objects, then impossibly disappears- that I’m going to look like a total nut. I’d think that if I were in his shoes.
Except… people are going to start disappearing again, it’s only a matter of time. The media will say that the Farmingham Fiend is back in the game. Will my son buy that? He’ll start thinking about what I told him, and how I predicted it. Then he’ll remember that he saw the thing himself, he and his friends, even if it was just out of the corner of his eye.
I hope, sooner or later, he’ll believe me. I could use his help. Maybe Ralph is way ahead of me, but I’m thinking we should get the Fight Patrol back together. Father and son, this time. Multigenerational, get the retirees involved too.
Old farts of my generation, for reasons I don’t understand, like to wax nostalgic over their own false sense of superiority. We rode our bikes without helmets and had distant if not irresponsible parents. Yeah, yeah, what a load. I think every new generation is better than the last, because every generation is a progression from the last, Kids these days? They’ve got cell phones, with cameras. And helmet cams. GoPros you can attach to bikes. Doorbell cameras.
It seems the Hidebehind loathes being seen. This time around, with my grandfather’s spirit, my own memories, and my boy’s energy? I think this time we’re finally going to beat it.
2023.06.01 05:21 PeteOfDawn Which show do you think did the Vader fight resulting in the helmet breaking better Rebels or Obi Wan?
I just finished watching through Rebels for the first time and when I got to that scene and saw Anakain's eye coming out of the helmet I thought "WHAT A RIPOFF!" I saw Obi Wan when it was coming out last year and I had heard some people say it's similar to something that happened in Rebels but it's not just similar it's a complete ripoff.
What makes it even more disappointing is that Rebels did this so much better IMO and I'll explain why. For one thing the camera isn't constantly shaking like it is Obi Wan. But that aside I like how in Rebels it's more understated compared to Obi Wan. In the latter he talks a lot more and a lot of was pretty angsty. I get what they were trying to do with mixing Jones and Christiansen's but it just didn't sound right because of how different their cadence. I feel like if they just had him say "You didn't kill Anakin Skywalker, I did" that would have been better since I think that is the real stand out line of the scene becuase of the way it adds to Obi Wan saying Vader betrayed and murdered Luke's father. Mcgregors acting helps because he really sold Obi Wans emotion to seeing Anakin like this but it can't save the scene for me. Also the "Obi Wan!" scream really wasn't necessary and just made it feel even more angsty then it already was.
In Rebels it's much better because when Vader reaches out to Ashoka she as well as the audience thinks for a brief second they can see and hear Anakin because at first you hear both him and Vader and then just him the second time. But then when he says "Then you will die" it severs as a reminder that Anakin is gone without needing to spell it out like Obi Wan did and because of that it's so much more impactful. That's not to mention Lanter really sold that line because he was able to match Jones delivery and tone in way Christian didn't and they didn't need to mask it (no pun intended) by cutting it in and out with Jones voice. Also I watched a fanedit of Rebels and in that scene they made Anakin's eye blue until he says that line to which it turns yellow which I thought was a nice touch to make the scene that slightest bit better.
Those are my thoughts. I'm curious to see what other people think about this discussion(potential spoilers for the Ashoka show) If that rumor of them recreating the Rebels scene in the Ashoka show is true I'm hoping they butcher it and make it like more the Obi Wan scene. Speculating on it and saying what they should do is a whole other discussion and I don't think it's worth having until we can actually see it if it does happen.
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What makes it even more disappointing is that Rebels did this so much better IMO and I'll explain why. For one thing the camera isn't constantly shaking like it is Obi Wan. But that aside I like how in Rebels it's more understated compared to Obi Wan. In the latter he talks a lot more and a lot of was pretty angsty. I get what they were trying to do with mixing Jones and Christiansen's but it just didn't sound right because of how different their cadence. I feel like if they just had him say "You didn't kill Anakin Skywalker, I did" that would have been better since I think that is the real stand out line of the scene becuase of the way it adds to Obi Wan saying Vader betrayed and murdered Luke's father. Mcgregors acting helps because he really sold Obi Wans emotion to seeing Anakin like this but it can't save the scene for me. Also the "Obi Wan!" scream really wasn't necessary and just made it feel even more angsty then it already was.
In Rebels it's much better because when Vader reaches out to Ashoka she as well as the audience thinks for a brief second they can see and hear Anakin because at first you hear both him and Vader and then just him the second time. But then when he says "Then you will die" it severs as a reminder that Anakin is gone without needing to spell it out like Obi Wan did and because of that it's so much more impactful. That's not to mention Lanter really sold that line because he was able to match Jones delivery and tone in way Christian didn't and they didn't need to mask it (no pun intended) by cutting it in and out with Jones voice. Also I watched a fanedit of Rebels and in that scene they made Anakin's eye blue until he says that line to which it turns yellow which I thought was a nice touch to make the scene that slightest bit better.
Those are my thoughts. I'm curious to see what other people think about this discussion(potential spoilers for the Ashoka show) If that rumor of them recreating the Rebels scene in the Ashoka show is true I'm hoping they butcher it and make it like more the Obi Wan scene. Speculating on it and saying what they should do is a whole other discussion and I don't think it's worth having until we can actually see it if it does happen.