Huckleberry farm amusement park
The two stages (Amp Stage and SUPERF3ST Stage) are in the yellow circle on the map.
2023.03.22 22:38 Salt_Huckleberry_429 The two stages (Amp Stage and SUPERF3ST Stage) are in the yellow circle on the map.
 | submitted by Salt_Huckleberry_429 to resonatesuwannee [link] [comments] |
2023.03.22 21:44 Xiaomimix Does anyone know when the Luton DART at London Luton Airport is going to be added to maps? It opened on the 10th March
submitted by Xiaomimix to applemaps [link] [comments]
2023.03.22 21:26 Empty-Cockroach-9971 sometimes i hate this fucking appđ should be illegal to pay this little
 | submitted by Empty-Cockroach-9971 to doordash [link] [comments] |
2023.03.22 21:25 InterestingHope2222 39 [M4F] #Harrisonburg, VA - Seeking petite to average girl (at least 18) about to/recently finished HS that wants a deep, romantic relationship w/ a guy that wants to know&understand the real you! Dates/cuddles/movies/gaming/explore&enjoy life! Shy welcome too! All < 3hr drive/poss all U.S.
TL:DR Slim, mature, responsible, and intellectual guy seeking a petite to average size (as in, not overweight, not that you have to be short haha) younger girl (18 or older) that's going to graduate HS this year, or did recently (i.e. the last few years or so) that wants the build the deepest, most romantic and loving relationship with someone that genuinely wants to get to know and understand them on a deep level! Also, someone that will DEEPLY appreciate them, on a level most boys her age could only dream of. Someone that will THOROUGHLY enjoy spending TONS of time with you, savoring every second, loving the memories you're making together, and the things you learn about each other as you get to know and understand each other that much better! A girl that wants to experience a "young love" style of romance, and by that I mean going on all sorts of dates, including some cheesy ones, holding hands a lot while we walk around in parks, at the mall, even at the supermarket if you wish (if you're super shy we can hold off on the PDA such as hand holding until you're more comfortable). By "young love" I also mean just being very romantic, excited to see and spend time with each other, and also lots of hugs and cuddles and kisses (only in private is fine at first if you're shy). Do all sorts of things in life together, cuddle, travel, explore, and just in general enjoy life together and spending time together. Also trying lots of new things together and really appreciating the memories we're making together! Basically just going all-in on the romance / relationship and giving it our all, and just thoroughly enjoying the ride as we get to know each other better and better, and hopefully we click well enough to stay together forever! <3
So that gives you a decent idea of who and what I'm looking for, but there's still more details I'd like to go into, as well as telling some more about myself, so you can better understand who I am.
Ideally I'm looking for a girl that just graduated HS (or did in the last few years), but anyone up to ~25 or so is welcome. If you're shy, even extremely shy, or have strict parents [those aren't requirements either], this could be a great opportunity for you, as I used to be extremely shy when I was younger too (and also had strict / controlling parents, so I understand how that can be too). If you're outgoing, and/or just want to explore new things and places in life, that's cool and fine too! Size wise, as I'm a relatively slim guy myself, I'm attracted to girls that are petite to average weight. I want to be able to do some athletic things together like walking/jogging/perhaps some sports (and/or other things, depending on what you're into). So it's not just an attraction thing that I'm not interested in people overweight, it's a matter of lifestyle / mentality / and being able to do certain things together. Of course I expect my partner to have the same expectations of me, that I don't get fat either.
Anyways, moving on, so thanks for reading my post so far, and if you're looking for what I'd described, hopefully you'll read on and find me interesting, and if so, PLEASE send me a message! It's fine if you are just curious and want to ask some questions and learn more first, before making any decisions / jumping into anything! With that in mind, let me describe myself a bit. I'm a slim, intellectual guy, often been called cute, and I'm pretty upbeat and optimistic, but I've been a bit lonely lately and would LOVE to find a girl that wants a deep, loving, emotionally and mentally close relationship, and is willing to put in the time and effort to build that - assuming of course we click well enough. That doesn't mean we need to rush into things, and I'm not looking to - I'm just saying that should be our end goal. If we date for a while and then decide we're not a close enough match, well, it happens sometimes, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't try! So, to address the elephant in the room, yes, I would be a good bit older than you, so obviously you need to be OK with dating a middle aged guy, and I realize that's not for everyone - and that's fine. I'm not looking to pressure anyone into anything. But I also know that there most definitely ARE some girls out there that are open to that, as well as some that specifically prefer that. There's advantages to dating someone a bit older than you, such as them being a lot more mature, responsible, considerate, respectful, and, perhaps most importantly, appreciate life and a deep relationship sooooo much more. Someone whom knows when they have someone special with them, and can appreciate and enjoy that on a level that someone your age can't. Anyways, as long as you're genuinely open to a deep, serious relationship with someone my age, hopefully someday leading to a serious LTR and kids, that's fine. Like I said, I'm not looking to rush into anything, I want to spend some time chatting and getting to know each other first, so we can get comfortable with each other before meeting. So if you're shy, even extremely shy, don't worry, it's OK! I actually used to be EXTREMELY shy when I was young, so I totally understand how that can be, and I usually can get along well with shy people because I've been there and understand where they're coming from. Also, if needed I can carry the conversation until you start getting more comfortable and more talkative. ;) If you've been too shy to talk to guys you like (or possibly you do like older guys but are WAY too shy to approach one) - but genuinely DO want a relationship and would love to find someone willing to spend the time to get to know and truly understand you, this could be the opportunity you're looking for! On the other hand, if you're outgoing and love to chat [and looking for a relationship], that's totally fine too! haha Both sides of that coin can be fun, so I'm cool with either way you are. ;)
Alternatively, maybe you had a bad time at prom (or some other romantic event you were looking forward to), or didn't go, or didn't have anyone to go with, or maybe it was OK but didn't nearly live up to your expectations, and would love to get to have some romantic evenings and memories. Or maybe you just didn't get out much (or had super strict parents that didn't let you) and want to get out into the world and explore new places and new things, etc. and would love to have a romantic partner to share all those experiences and memories together with!
...or maybe you had suuuuper strict parents and want to finally get out from under the rock you were living under and finally get to see and do many of the things you've wanted to for a long time! (I would totally understand this one as I had very strict parents)
Maybe you've had a few relationships before but you never clicked very deeply with any of them (and/or they were just too immature), and you're looking for a relationship that's much deeper and more meaningful than that. Or maybe you've never had anyone that you've connected well enough to to feel that they really understand you. ...while I can't promise that we'll click well enough for that to happen, I'd like that to be the goal, and there's certainly a non-zero chance of it happening haha.
Perhaps you're REALLY wanting to be able to fully dive into a relationship as soon as you graduate, and are looking forward to, not necessarily Prom [although possibly that too], but also/mostly just would love to be able to take a long romantic vacation / visit once you're done with school and have some freedom. An opportunity to be yourself and learn about both yourself and your romantic partner.
Or, lastly, maybe you're just single and would love to have someone to cuddle with, talk to, share everything with, watch movies or shows together with, play games together, and travel or explore together!
Anyways, whatever the case is for you, if you think I'm interesting and would like to explore some or all of those things, I'd love to hear from you! Before I get too far ahead of myself, let you tell you a little about me. I'm 39 (but I look a bit younger), white, 5'11" and relatively slim at 165 lbs. I enjoy walking and jogging in the park, as well as exploring new parks / seeing new places and new scenery. Although it's 100 times better when I have someone to enjoy that with and talk to meanwhile! <3 Anyways, I do have a number of nerdy interests - games, movies, anime, computers, science stuff, etc., but I can also enjoy long conversations with a date, walks in the park - or on the beach, playing board, card, or video games together, or sports, etc. Plus I'm open to learning some interests of yours - I can't promise I'll be interested in all of your interests, but it's extremely likely that I'd at least enjoy hearing you talk about them, and some of them I may be happy to join you in (this is very likely). We don't need to share ALL of the same interests, as long as we share a few haha. As far as games go, I'm primarily (almost entirely) a PC gamer, but I occasionally play some console games (primarily older consoles). My favorite thing to do is to cuddle up and watch something fun or interesting, such as movies, YouTube (I watch a lot of YouTube), Anime, Netflix, or Kdramas (occasionally). So you need to at minimum be someone whom would enjoy cuddling up and watching things together with me haha ... but then, almost everyone enjoys doing that. Oh, and I also have a relatively newfound love for Theme Parks and water parks since I recently started going back to them for the first time as an adult recently, and there's many more I'd love to go to - as well as re-visit the ones I've been to with someone special going with me to share the experience with. <3 I'm also curious to try out some amusement parks now that I'm getting more comfortable on rollercoasters.
Anyways, that's a bit about me, I'd love to hear some about you and what your interests are! And maybe note some shared interests that we have! Of course I do have some additional interests, I haven't listed EVERYTHING haha, nor do you need to in a first message haha. Just because my post is long doesn't mean your messages have to be haha. ;)
As for requirements for you, I'm pretty open minded on most things, so I'll try to keep the requirements pretty minimal. Ideally I'm looking for someone that's white or Asian, or some mix thereof (i.e. if you're 50/50, or 50/50 white or Asian and something else, that's fine). I'd consider making exceptions to this for the right person, if we really clicked otherwise. ;) Age wise, while it would be nice to find someone about to graduate HS (and is excited to use their newfound freedom to explore so many new things in life and the world), I'm willing to consider someone a bit older, up to early to mid 20s, as long as we share a number of interests and you feel like you're looking for something similar to what I've described. It's more that I'm looking for someone with a certain mindset and/or at a certain point in their life, not necessarily that they're SUPER young. My main requirement is, as someone that's slim (and sometimes athletic, when I have time to get more exercise), I need you to also BE [as opposed "working on it"] average weight or below, and plan to stay there (but also to expect me to as well - I don't expect anything from a partner that I don't have at LEAST as high expectations of myself about). I find petite girls super cute, but average size girls are fun and cute as well! Both sizes have their fun and interesting points haha, so I'm fine if you're either one.
Anyways, I think I've talked long enough for now haha, but that gives you a decent idea what I'm looking for plus some basics about me. As the title says, while ideally I'd love to find someone within 3 hours of Harrisonburg, VA, I'm willing to consider someone anywhere in the US (probably just the lower 48 states). Drives longer than 3 hours are definitely still very plausible, possibly even 8 or 10 hours perhaps, and flying is an option if you live significantly further away (plus points if you live anywhere remotely near a major airport, but that's not a requirement). Anyways, my point is, if you're further away than a few hours drive, I'd need you to be willing to travel / work with the distance when the time comes - particularly with the drastically increased costs of gas/travel these days. For example, if you're pretty far away, then after the first visit or two, we'd probably need to be planning longer visits when one of us travels to the other. Anyways, I'm not looking to rush into meeting, but I'm also NOT INTERESTED in an online only relationship. We need to start meeting in person in the relatively near future (i.e. a few weeks or so (possibly several weeks if you're far), assuming we talk a good bit during those few weeks). Also, I'm willing to come to you the first visit (or perhaps more) if you're far, but after the first visit or two you'd need to be willing to visit me (I might be willing to pay for your flight if you can't, we'll see), as that's going to be a LOT cheaper than me flying out somewhere, getting a hotel, and renting a car. On the other hand, if you're much closer, within a reasonably driving range, if needed I could pick you up in my car once you're ready to visit (and I can just drive to you for the first few visits). And if you're within 3 hours or so drive, I'm happy to drive to you for several visits at first, until you're ready to visit me. Regardless of the timing, I'm not going to pressure you do visit me before you're comfortable doing so, and it's something we can play by ear. For example, if you're someone that's super shy I understand if it takes a few extra times of me visiting you before you're ready to visit me, or perhaps we need to chat some extra time first, etc.
Well, thanks for reading my rather long post haha, hopefully I've piqued your interest, and if so, I'd love to hear from you! Certainly feel free to ask me any questions you may have, either if you're interested, or if you're curious but need to know some more before you know if you're interested haha. Also, I'm happy to exchange some (clean!) pictures of each other after a few messages. On that note, when you message me, please tell me at least a little about you (i.e. age, race, height/weight, and a little about you and what you're looking for). Thanks again, and hopefully this can be a great opportunity for both of us, and the start of something amazing!
P.S. To the SUPER shy and lurkers out there - yes, you, you know who you are - if you've been looking and wanting a relationship for a while, but have been too shy to ever post yourself or respond to a post, but you find me / what I'm looking for interesting, THIS is the post for you, THE one you've been waiting for. I've talked to a few VERY shy girls occasionally, and it was such an amazing experience for some of them to talk to someone that understands them and is willing to take the time to get to know them, and give them time to get comfortable before meeting. Someone that can help them slowly come out of their shell, gently nudging them to try new things and slowly be more outgoing, but without being pushy. So if that's you, you fit what I described that I'm looking for, and you're THAT shy but really DO want to be in a relationship, THIS is the post that's the opportunity for you. You've found the person that's willing to spend the time to get to know you and let you get comfortable, and also the guy that's going to enjoy and appreciate spending time with you in person if/when we get to that point (hopefully, that's the objective). I understand that shy girls, if you can get to know them well enough that they get comfortable with you, can often build some of the deepest emotional connections, because they appreciate the few close friends they do have SO much moreso than average people. So, if that's you, and you've been wanting a relationship for a while but been too shy to message anyone, PLEASE do this time! <3 I can carry the conversation if needed, but you need to at least say "hi" so that I know you're interested! [If you're too shy to say much, just say "Hi, I'm shy but I'd love to chat" or something like that]. :) Romance doesn't have to be just something you read about in books or watch in movies, YOU CAN experience it yourself! <3
submitted by InterestingHope2222 to AgeGapRomance [link] [comments]
Ideally I'm looking for a girl that just graduated HS (or did in the last few years), but anyone up to ~25 or so is welcome. If you're shy, even extremely shy, or have strict parents [those aren't requirements either], this could be a great opportunity for you, as I used to be extremely shy when I was younger too (and also had strict / controlling parents, so I understand how that can be too). If you're outgoing, and/or just want to explore new things and places in life, that's cool and fine too! Size wise, as I'm a relatively slim guy myself, I'm attracted to girls that are petite to average weight. I want to be able to do some athletic things together like walking/jogging/perhaps some sports (and/or other things, depending on what you're into). So it's not just an attraction thing that I'm not interested in people overweight, it's a matter of lifestyle / mentality / and being able to do certain things together. Of course I expect my partner to have the same expectations of me, that I don't get fat either.
Anyways, moving on, so thanks for reading my post so far, and if you're looking for what I'd described, hopefully you'll read on and find me interesting, and if so, PLEASE send me a message! It's fine if you are just curious and want to ask some questions and learn more first, before making any decisions / jumping into anything! With that in mind, let me describe myself a bit. I'm a slim, intellectual guy, often been called cute, and I'm pretty upbeat and optimistic, but I've been a bit lonely lately and would LOVE to find a girl that wants a deep, loving, emotionally and mentally close relationship, and is willing to put in the time and effort to build that - assuming of course we click well enough. That doesn't mean we need to rush into things, and I'm not looking to - I'm just saying that should be our end goal. If we date for a while and then decide we're not a close enough match, well, it happens sometimes, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't try! So, to address the elephant in the room, yes, I would be a good bit older than you, so obviously you need to be OK with dating a middle aged guy, and I realize that's not for everyone - and that's fine. I'm not looking to pressure anyone into anything. But I also know that there most definitely ARE some girls out there that are open to that, as well as some that specifically prefer that. There's advantages to dating someone a bit older than you, such as them being a lot more mature, responsible, considerate, respectful, and, perhaps most importantly, appreciate life and a deep relationship sooooo much more. Someone whom knows when they have someone special with them, and can appreciate and enjoy that on a level that someone your age can't. Anyways, as long as you're genuinely open to a deep, serious relationship with someone my age, hopefully someday leading to a serious LTR and kids, that's fine. Like I said, I'm not looking to rush into anything, I want to spend some time chatting and getting to know each other first, so we can get comfortable with each other before meeting. So if you're shy, even extremely shy, don't worry, it's OK! I actually used to be EXTREMELY shy when I was young, so I totally understand how that can be, and I usually can get along well with shy people because I've been there and understand where they're coming from. Also, if needed I can carry the conversation until you start getting more comfortable and more talkative. ;) If you've been too shy to talk to guys you like (or possibly you do like older guys but are WAY too shy to approach one) - but genuinely DO want a relationship and would love to find someone willing to spend the time to get to know and truly understand you, this could be the opportunity you're looking for! On the other hand, if you're outgoing and love to chat [and looking for a relationship], that's totally fine too! haha Both sides of that coin can be fun, so I'm cool with either way you are. ;)
Alternatively, maybe you had a bad time at prom (or some other romantic event you were looking forward to), or didn't go, or didn't have anyone to go with, or maybe it was OK but didn't nearly live up to your expectations, and would love to get to have some romantic evenings and memories. Or maybe you just didn't get out much (or had super strict parents that didn't let you) and want to get out into the world and explore new places and new things, etc. and would love to have a romantic partner to share all those experiences and memories together with!
...or maybe you had suuuuper strict parents and want to finally get out from under the rock you were living under and finally get to see and do many of the things you've wanted to for a long time! (I would totally understand this one as I had very strict parents)
Maybe you've had a few relationships before but you never clicked very deeply with any of them (and/or they were just too immature), and you're looking for a relationship that's much deeper and more meaningful than that. Or maybe you've never had anyone that you've connected well enough to to feel that they really understand you. ...while I can't promise that we'll click well enough for that to happen, I'd like that to be the goal, and there's certainly a non-zero chance of it happening haha.
Perhaps you're REALLY wanting to be able to fully dive into a relationship as soon as you graduate, and are looking forward to, not necessarily Prom [although possibly that too], but also/mostly just would love to be able to take a long romantic vacation / visit once you're done with school and have some freedom. An opportunity to be yourself and learn about both yourself and your romantic partner.
Or, lastly, maybe you're just single and would love to have someone to cuddle with, talk to, share everything with, watch movies or shows together with, play games together, and travel or explore together!
Anyways, whatever the case is for you, if you think I'm interesting and would like to explore some or all of those things, I'd love to hear from you! Before I get too far ahead of myself, let you tell you a little about me. I'm 39 (but I look a bit younger), white, 5'11" and relatively slim at 165 lbs. I enjoy walking and jogging in the park, as well as exploring new parks / seeing new places and new scenery. Although it's 100 times better when I have someone to enjoy that with and talk to meanwhile! <3 Anyways, I do have a number of nerdy interests - games, movies, anime, computers, science stuff, etc., but I can also enjoy long conversations with a date, walks in the park - or on the beach, playing board, card, or video games together, or sports, etc. Plus I'm open to learning some interests of yours - I can't promise I'll be interested in all of your interests, but it's extremely likely that I'd at least enjoy hearing you talk about them, and some of them I may be happy to join you in (this is very likely). We don't need to share ALL of the same interests, as long as we share a few haha. As far as games go, I'm primarily (almost entirely) a PC gamer, but I occasionally play some console games (primarily older consoles). My favorite thing to do is to cuddle up and watch something fun or interesting, such as movies, YouTube (I watch a lot of YouTube), Anime, Netflix, or Kdramas (occasionally). So you need to at minimum be someone whom would enjoy cuddling up and watching things together with me haha ... but then, almost everyone enjoys doing that. Oh, and I also have a relatively newfound love for Theme Parks and water parks since I recently started going back to them for the first time as an adult recently, and there's many more I'd love to go to - as well as re-visit the ones I've been to with someone special going with me to share the experience with. <3 I'm also curious to try out some amusement parks now that I'm getting more comfortable on rollercoasters.
Anyways, that's a bit about me, I'd love to hear some about you and what your interests are! And maybe note some shared interests that we have! Of course I do have some additional interests, I haven't listed EVERYTHING haha, nor do you need to in a first message haha. Just because my post is long doesn't mean your messages have to be haha. ;)
As for requirements for you, I'm pretty open minded on most things, so I'll try to keep the requirements pretty minimal. Ideally I'm looking for someone that's white or Asian, or some mix thereof (i.e. if you're 50/50, or 50/50 white or Asian and something else, that's fine). I'd consider making exceptions to this for the right person, if we really clicked otherwise. ;) Age wise, while it would be nice to find someone about to graduate HS (and is excited to use their newfound freedom to explore so many new things in life and the world), I'm willing to consider someone a bit older, up to early to mid 20s, as long as we share a number of interests and you feel like you're looking for something similar to what I've described. It's more that I'm looking for someone with a certain mindset and/or at a certain point in their life, not necessarily that they're SUPER young. My main requirement is, as someone that's slim (and sometimes athletic, when I have time to get more exercise), I need you to also BE [as opposed "working on it"] average weight or below, and plan to stay there (but also to expect me to as well - I don't expect anything from a partner that I don't have at LEAST as high expectations of myself about). I find petite girls super cute, but average size girls are fun and cute as well! Both sizes have their fun and interesting points haha, so I'm fine if you're either one.
Anyways, I think I've talked long enough for now haha, but that gives you a decent idea what I'm looking for plus some basics about me. As the title says, while ideally I'd love to find someone within 3 hours of Harrisonburg, VA, I'm willing to consider someone anywhere in the US (probably just the lower 48 states). Drives longer than 3 hours are definitely still very plausible, possibly even 8 or 10 hours perhaps, and flying is an option if you live significantly further away (plus points if you live anywhere remotely near a major airport, but that's not a requirement). Anyways, my point is, if you're further away than a few hours drive, I'd need you to be willing to travel / work with the distance when the time comes - particularly with the drastically increased costs of gas/travel these days. For example, if you're pretty far away, then after the first visit or two, we'd probably need to be planning longer visits when one of us travels to the other. Anyways, I'm not looking to rush into meeting, but I'm also NOT INTERESTED in an online only relationship. We need to start meeting in person in the relatively near future (i.e. a few weeks or so (possibly several weeks if you're far), assuming we talk a good bit during those few weeks). Also, I'm willing to come to you the first visit (or perhaps more) if you're far, but after the first visit or two you'd need to be willing to visit me (I might be willing to pay for your flight if you can't, we'll see), as that's going to be a LOT cheaper than me flying out somewhere, getting a hotel, and renting a car. On the other hand, if you're much closer, within a reasonably driving range, if needed I could pick you up in my car once you're ready to visit (and I can just drive to you for the first few visits). And if you're within 3 hours or so drive, I'm happy to drive to you for several visits at first, until you're ready to visit me. Regardless of the timing, I'm not going to pressure you do visit me before you're comfortable doing so, and it's something we can play by ear. For example, if you're someone that's super shy I understand if it takes a few extra times of me visiting you before you're ready to visit me, or perhaps we need to chat some extra time first, etc.
Well, thanks for reading my rather long post haha, hopefully I've piqued your interest, and if so, I'd love to hear from you! Certainly feel free to ask me any questions you may have, either if you're interested, or if you're curious but need to know some more before you know if you're interested haha. Also, I'm happy to exchange some (clean!) pictures of each other after a few messages. On that note, when you message me, please tell me at least a little about you (i.e. age, race, height/weight, and a little about you and what you're looking for). Thanks again, and hopefully this can be a great opportunity for both of us, and the start of something amazing!
P.S. To the SUPER shy and lurkers out there - yes, you, you know who you are - if you've been looking and wanting a relationship for a while, but have been too shy to ever post yourself or respond to a post, but you find me / what I'm looking for interesting, THIS is the post for you, THE one you've been waiting for. I've talked to a few VERY shy girls occasionally, and it was such an amazing experience for some of them to talk to someone that understands them and is willing to take the time to get to know them, and give them time to get comfortable before meeting. Someone that can help them slowly come out of their shell, gently nudging them to try new things and slowly be more outgoing, but without being pushy. So if that's you, you fit what I described that I'm looking for, and you're THAT shy but really DO want to be in a relationship, THIS is the post that's the opportunity for you. You've found the person that's willing to spend the time to get to know you and let you get comfortable, and also the guy that's going to enjoy and appreciate spending time with you in person if/when we get to that point (hopefully, that's the objective). I understand that shy girls, if you can get to know them well enough that they get comfortable with you, can often build some of the deepest emotional connections, because they appreciate the few close friends they do have SO much moreso than average people. So, if that's you, and you've been wanting a relationship for a while but been too shy to message anyone, PLEASE do this time! <3 I can carry the conversation if needed, but you need to at least say "hi" so that I know you're interested! [If you're too shy to say much, just say "Hi, I'm shy but I'd love to chat" or something like that]. :) Romance doesn't have to be just something you read about in books or watch in movies, YOU CAN experience it yourself! <3
2023.03.22 21:16 BillNyePaintballGuy Instrumental of "Boots"...
 | I made this while not sober so don't judge me. submitted by BillNyePaintballGuy to imaginedragons [link] [comments] However, I am going to be using this in a documentary I'm making about an aba dines amusement park so keep an eye out for that. â¤ď¸ |
2023.03.22 21:02 whitejaguar [H] Steam gifts, collectors games and removed games [W] TF2 keys, Tether, Bulk offers
Have - Steam gifts (ROW, unrestricted, if you can't see the game in my inventory, it is still available, so add me for the trade)
Want:
Trade offer link: https://steamcommunity.com/tradeoffenew/?partner=99041861&token=oT95zjCo
Steam inventory: https://steamcommunity.com/id/routemasteinventory#753_1
Inventory listing by TradeStarter
submitted by whitejaguar to SteamGameSwap [link] [comments]
| Game name | Price | Notes | Stock | Game Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Ultra Minigolf Adventures | offers | Gift | ||
| A Valley Without Wind 1 & 2 | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Aerena - Clash of Champions | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Age of Empires Legacy Bundle | 25 keys | Gift | ||
| Agricultural Simulator 2011: Extended Edition | 2 keys | Gift | ||
| AirMech 2 | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Amnesia Memories | 3 keys | Gift | ||
| Arena Wars 2 | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Awesomenauts Power Pack | 1 TOD Ticket | subID 36025 | Gift | |
| Back to the Future The Game | 25 keys | removed game | subID 6970 | Gift |
| Barbie Dreamhouse Party | 400 keys | removed game | Gift | |
| Battle Los Angeles | offers | removed game | subID 11488 | Gift |
| Borderless Gaming | 5 keys | Gift | ||
| Broken Age | 2 keys | Gift | ||
| Call of Duty World at War | 25 keys | Gift | ||
| Castle of Illusion | 3 keys | Gift | ||
| Circuits | 2 keys | Gift | ||
| Cities XL 2012 | 15 keys | removed game | Gift | |
| Clive Barker's Jericho | 40 keys | removed game | subID 531 | Gift |
| Commandos Pack | 2 keys | Gift | ||
| Crusader Kings II Collection | 5 keys | subID 26483 | Gift | |
| Deadpool + Merc with a Map Pack DLC | 500 keys | removed game | 28777 + 29453 | Gift |
| Deathgarden BLOODHARVEST | 4 keys | Gift | ||
| Defy Gravity Extended | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Demigod | 1 TOD Ticket | Gift | ||
| Deus Ex Game of the Year Edition | 2 keys | Gift | ||
| DiRT 2 | 50 keys | removed game | subID 14293 | Gift |
| Dirt 2 | 50 keys | removed game | subID 2493 | Gift |
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2023.03.22 20:38 Swan_Temple Startling Sounds
Anyone else extremely sensitive to certain sounds? For me, any sudden or loud noise makes me jump out of my skin and go into flight or fight mode. It can take hours for the adrenaline surge to wear off.
Some of the worst sounds for me are a sudden loud knock on my door. In fact I can't stand the sound of door knocks even in movies or tv shows. Grates on my nerves. Any sudden bump or thump sound jars me too.
I've got a long list of unnerving sounds that trigger me. Currently I'm on a farm. Dogs bark and I'm jumping up to see if there's an intruder or stranger on the property. At night animals make noises I'm unaccustomed to. Some come from the livestock and others may be wild nocturnal prowlers.
I heard a loud frightful screech not long ago. No idea what that was. Sounded like a wild monkey in a tree screaming. Which may in fact be true, because troops of wild Macaques inhabit a nearby park. I don't have firearms, so I was scared to open the door and shine a flashlight into the bushes and trees.
The farm is quite dark at night. No outside lighting, which makes it even more spooky for me.
Not bad enough? There are sudden loud ground shaking explosions, which I think are coming from a nearby military base, where they conduct bombing exercises. Knocks the filling out of my teeth and freaks me the F out. Also low flying Apache helicopters sometimes buzz right over my roof. LOUD and scary machines.
Neighbors also shoot guns on their property, which has me on edge. Between the bomb testing, gunfire, and helicopters I feel like I'm in a war combat zone!
Even falling acorns make me jump when they drop and crack on the tin roof. And there's a rooster who screams in the night. Annoying and triggering. I flash back to a very traumatic incident, involving a woman screaming in shock.
I need benzos or something better than booze to help me relax. I never sleep well. I'm also trying to relocate, because farm life isn't for me. I need a super quiet, safe place to stay. Not some jungle guerilla warfare zone.
submitted by Swan_Temple to ptsd [link] [comments]
Some of the worst sounds for me are a sudden loud knock on my door. In fact I can't stand the sound of door knocks even in movies or tv shows. Grates on my nerves. Any sudden bump or thump sound jars me too.
I've got a long list of unnerving sounds that trigger me. Currently I'm on a farm. Dogs bark and I'm jumping up to see if there's an intruder or stranger on the property. At night animals make noises I'm unaccustomed to. Some come from the livestock and others may be wild nocturnal prowlers.
I heard a loud frightful screech not long ago. No idea what that was. Sounded like a wild monkey in a tree screaming. Which may in fact be true, because troops of wild Macaques inhabit a nearby park. I don't have firearms, so I was scared to open the door and shine a flashlight into the bushes and trees.
The farm is quite dark at night. No outside lighting, which makes it even more spooky for me.
Not bad enough? There are sudden loud ground shaking explosions, which I think are coming from a nearby military base, where they conduct bombing exercises. Knocks the filling out of my teeth and freaks me the F out. Also low flying Apache helicopters sometimes buzz right over my roof. LOUD and scary machines.
Neighbors also shoot guns on their property, which has me on edge. Between the bomb testing, gunfire, and helicopters I feel like I'm in a war combat zone!
Even falling acorns make me jump when they drop and crack on the tin roof. And there's a rooster who screams in the night. Annoying and triggering. I flash back to a very traumatic incident, involving a woman screaming in shock.
I need benzos or something better than booze to help me relax. I never sleep well. I'm also trying to relocate, because farm life isn't for me. I need a super quiet, safe place to stay. Not some jungle guerilla warfare zone.
2023.03.22 20:29 cruisingNW The Foundations of Humanity 10 (Old Memories, New Friends) - an NoP fanfic
The Foundations of Humanity 10 (Old Memories, New Friends) - an NoP fanfic
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Thank you u/SpacePaladin15 for establishing the Nature of Predators Universe, and for allowing Fanfics to flourish!
Memory transcription subject: Valek, Venlil-Human Partnership Program Participant
Date [standardized human time]: August 27th, 2136. Late afternoon
"Hold on, that's not fair!"
My ears pointed accusingly at the unfazed Venlil in front of me. Professor Tarva couldn't expect Maeve to spend all her time masked! How could the herd get used to her if all they saw was black wool?!
"No, it isn't fair, but it is necessary. Humans are already familiar with this garment, in fact it was the human half of our program that suggested it; they call it a Burka. Maeve has already proven mindful to avoid predatory tracking by using her periphery, and the color of her hair makes this particularly important. Need I remind you, she is the first human this herd has seen, but not the first predator! Some in your village have even survived the Arxur, or have you forgotten?"
I faltered at that reminder. Of course I knew that some of the town was more⌠sensitive than others. But this was Maeve! They would come around!
"But even at home?! Who can she scare when it's just me? You can't expect her to be herself in her own room?"
Always ready with a new reason, Tarva shot back, âFor now, yes, we can! Both Humanity and The Venlil have to make every effort to prevent an incident. If this doesn't go well, it could irreparably damage the entire alliance!â
I was losing ground, but I had to fight this! It wasnât fair!
âItâs ok, Valek,â Maeve soothed beside me, âI donât like it either, but Tarva is right.â speaking directly to Tarva now, who remained infuriatingly confident under the eyes of a predator, Maeve continued, âCan you include an ongoing review process in the terms? These⌠conditions youâve given us have no end date. I understand the immediate necessity, but this inflexibility is setting us up for failure.â
Tarva motioned calmness, âOur goal is to increase exposure incrementally. Based on what is in the medical report from your first meeting, Maeve has already proven herself able to introduce herself gently. We will check in directly every two paws, and keep a close eye on the news in the area. I understand that is not stated in this contract, we will include it for transparency.â
I was ready to push for more, but Maeve took my paw, âI think we can work with this Valek. I want this, and Iâm willing to work for it. Is this ok?â
My tail lashed, but my ears conceded. âFine; I see the line is drawn. The Grove will accept Maeve, youâll see.â Maeve smiled at me and I squeezed her hand while we made our marks on the contract.
With a visible sigh of relief, Tarva spoke gently, âThank you. We want this to work as much as you do, really, but we, and Iâm glad you two, understand the reality of what we are doing. I think Maeve is a fantastic representative of her species, and I know the Grove will accept her, eventually. The supply ship should have finished its landing by now, I'll let them know to expect you.â
Signaling dismissal, Tarva stood from her cushion and returned to her station, presumably contacting the supply ship.
Stepping out into the hall, my body let loose its coiled frustrations from the indignity, âWe should have pushed for more! Youâre not dangerous, and if the Herd is close-minded that's their loss. You shouldn't have to hide yourself for them.â
âWhat more could we have pushed for? The fact that Iâm allowed to go at all is a big win, and Iâm very thankful we convinced them to pay for a new bed-and-bath room for me. And the Burka is for my protection, not the Venlil.â
âWhat do you mean?â I asked, one ear locked on her, the other swiveling absently.
âLooking at the difficulties of other partners, I think a big reason for our success is that we started with text only, and using this garment will, hopefully, have the same effect in person.â
I knew she was right, but I was in no mood to hear it. âLets go to the mess and get something to eat. I need to bite something.â
âNo.â Maeve stated with finality, âWe are going to the room. I need to talk to you privately.â
The weight in her voice finally slowed my tail, and we were silent for the walk back. My nerves bundled as the silence weighed on us, before Maeve laid a hand on my shoulder to reassure me. Finally making it back to the room, Maeve motioned for me to enter first, and locked the door behind us. She stood in front of the door, balled fists on her hips, before taking a deep breath and relaxing.
âWhatâs going on? You walked into that office looking for a fight and were still pissy when we finally left.â Maeveâs eyes met mine, and I stood tall.
âThey were going to keep you hidden! Like some beast to be contained! Itâs not fair to you, and itâs not ok! Youâre not a danger and they should know that! This whole program has shown, without any doubt, that Humans are not a threat, and should be welcome among the Federation. They should be thankful that Humanity came to us first, and we should welcome you into the Herd! You know that! But you just let them tell us how to live --â
âHey! I know youâre mad but you donât get-- â Maeve stopped short, before taking another deep breath, âWe need to stop, and we both need to calm down.â And with that, she sat on the floor with her back against the door, watching me.
Looking back, it is with great shame that I remember what I said while I rambled for those ten minutes of just⌠so much anger. I railed against the perceived slights that I thought Tarva levied against us. I spouted insults and profanities at the injustices of my kind against the humans, unearned and poorly targeted. I even accused Maeve of not trying hard enough. It was only when my voice broke and I spent more time breathing than yelling, that I finally sat down exhausted, and further collapsed on the cold floor. Only after several breaths did I hear movement, as Maeve crawled from her seat by the door to my side, brushing my head slowly.
âFeel better?â Maeve asked, quietly.
â...... no.â I admitted, ruefully.
âThis is unfair, and frustrating. Youâre right to be angry, but Iâve never seen you, or really any Venlil, like this. Is there something else going on?â
My tail flicked dismissively, and my ears flattened to the back of my head angrily.
âDoes this have something to do with⌠us?â
Suddenly everything clicked, and my body went still from the realization: I was scared I would lose Maeve. Finally letting it sink in that I, that We, were safe, I spoke up. âYou weren't my first. My first was as a Relief Partner for a friend. We were good friends, and she trusted me to help her through her cycles for an orbit or two, but there wasnât⌠love in it. There was trust, and⌠convenience. Iâve never felt this way with anyone, Iâve never thought of a future with anyone. And the idea that our relationship, that whether or not we can stay together, is determined by someone elseâs fears and politics⌠It's terrifying. â
Maeve lowered her body to lay with me on the ground, my back against her. Winding her arm around me, she pulled me against her as if to squeeze her assurances into me. âThere is nothing anyone, Venlil, Human, or otherwise, could ever hope to do to keep us apart. Even if everything goes wrong, and Iâm forced to leave, I will find a way to keep us together.â Finishing with a soft kiss on my crown, she released her grip and helped me up. I spoke with my ears back and tail curled in regret and shame.
âIâm sorry for what I said. I wonât deny that I felt what I felt, but I know that what I said was meant to hurt. It was cruel, and not who I am or who I want to be for you. I cannot ask for it, but I hope I can earn your forgiveness.â
Maeve brushed her hand against my snout, and smiled, âThank you. It did hurt, but I know it was said in fear. I forgive you.â
âOK!â Maeve clapped her hands together, âlet's get packed. I want to get a snack before we get on the ship, so we don't have a lot of time.â
--
Maeve and I had fallen into a comfortable silence, broken when we got to the shuttle bay. Tarva was waiting there with a human soldier, carrying a bundle of black fabric. âHello Cuties! Excited to see VP, Maeve?â Tarvaâs boisterousness prompted a polite smile and nervous laugh from my sunlight, âyeah you should be! Itâs gorgeous, and Iâm glad you're going to see so much of it. Youâre going to be landing in the Capital, and taking the Ring to Hidden Plains from there; Iâm sure Valek can tell you more on the way. This is your Burka,â she said, motioning to the bundle, âWe ask that you put it on before entering the shuttle bay. The Pilot doesnât normally take passengers, and heâs only seen humans from a distance, so we are well outside his comfort zone. As mentioned in the Terms of your hosting, you will need to continue wearing this anywhere unfamiliar Venlil may be, which would include transit all the way to your room.â Maeve deflated at this; this meant several hours under that thing. But she straightened her shoulders and nodded assent. âWe have modified the phrasing for that condition, which will allow you to be without it anywhere you and your handler can reasonably believe no unfamiliar Venlil will be, as well as guidelines for what is 'unfamiliar'; I hope that will help.â
Maeve and I were all smiles and wags, thanking Tarva profusely before she continued, âWeâre still doing the paperwork for construction of Maeveâs guest room, so im sorry, but it won't be done for a several days; you may need to share a room for bit.â
âTh-That's ok, I can sleep on the couch.â I stuttered.
Tarva flicked her tail in thinly disguised amusement, âRight. Iâm sure the âcouchâ is very comfortable. You didnât hear that, Private.â
âNo, maam.â the soldier agreed, eyes boring into the wall opposite. Maeve flushed and I shifted nervously.
âThe work is already paid for, but you can contact your handler if you have any other large financial needs, including clothing; Besides that, you are being provided a stipend in credits, we worked with humans to establish something as close to âsubsistence wageâ as we could figure. Valek, you and your family will be financially supporting Maeve for non-necessities. We are still working with human doctors to establish what, if any, supplements you will need, hopefully you'll see that in a week or so.â
âOk, we got housing, finances, food⌠That's about it! Any questions for me?â Maeve and I declined, and Tarva finished, âAlright! Private Jensen, give the lady her finery, and follow me; our next stop is the Med Lab, I need your help with something expensive.â Then calling over her shoulder, âHave a nice flight you two!â
--
We safely landed, and I was practically bouncing to show Maeve my world! I have to admit, the Burka kept people from panicking, but we were given a very wide berth wherever we went. Not wanting to rush through our peopleâs capital, I wandered with Maeve through the city to notable parks and landmarks. We visited the viewing platform on The Giant, a massive skyscraper and a marvel of engineering built in defiance of the strong winds of Venlil Prime. We stopped by a sweets shop and tried some Crystal Cuties! Maeve was thankful for the finger food, as the Burka made eating a challenge.
I asked to stop at one more place, somewhere I try to get to every time I come to the Capital: the Cattle Memoriam. A large park in the middle of a split in the city; no one dared impede the Day from this place. A base made of solid white granite supports a statue of Twinkling Ivy in the shape of a venlil pup held in a cage, holding a broken collar. Made of solid Morningâs Light, this iridescent gold metal burns away its tarnish in harsh sunlight; this memorial will never lose its luster under the Venlil Sun.
I brought Maeve forward, but she pulled away. âThis place is not for me. Please, pay your respects, Iâll stay here.â
I walked along one of the clear paths, every open space outside choked with gifts and remembrances. Letters, photos, anniversary gifts; the occasional Strayu, some half eaten by a family, most with only a small piece missing. No one was untouched by this war, and I was no exception. I came to the foot of the memorial, and raised my snout to the Day. I brought my tail to my chest, and held the tuft. I flapped my ears behind me. Once for my Brother, lost in a colony raid. My parents begged him not to go, but I encouraged him to wander beyond the Grove. Once for my Relief Partner, missing on a trading vessel to Nishtal, never arrived and never returned. I didnât tell her how I felt. Once for my Professor, the old exterminator joined the front when the Arxur last tested Venlil Prime. I didn't like him, but he didn't deserve to die.
I turned my body and snout to the Night, and bowed my head, wishing the quiet passing of all those lost, and the healing of my peopleâs grief. With a heavy sigh, I returned to Maeve, who stood at my return. âIâm sorry for your loss. I hope for their safe return, or peaceful restâ I blinked away my grief, and took Maeveâs hand, continuing our journey.
--
Memory transcription subject: Alvi, Venlil Citizen, Unemployed.
Date [standardized human time]: August 26th, 2136. Early evening
I was still drying my tears when I finally got to the station. Out of rent money, and my landlord getting pushy anyway, I thought I'd move to The Grove after seeing a "help wanted" post; everyone needs farmers. Dragging my packed pack, I stepped onto the train and tried to find a seat. Finding none, I thought to squat in one of the private cabins. As expensive as they were, there was bound to be a few empties; and I was rewarded for my ingenuity, untilâŚ
The door slid open in front of me, and a black and gray speckled Venlil filled the doorway, speaking to an unseen companion, "...dler to get a side facing the sun, so we should have-- oh! Hello!"
I sat frozen in my seat, unsure how to get out of this, while the Venlil began again, "I'm sorry, this is a private cabin, would you pl--" a shadow seemed to cover his shoulder, and he shifted his attention to his side, "... are you sure?" I heard only the train and passengers, but they communicated regardless, "Ok." Then addressing me, "Maeve is inviting you to stay with us, if you like. The cabin is already paid for, and we wouldn't mind the company. Can we come in?"
I was thankful for the allowance, and flicked my tail in welcome. I'd need to sleep on this ride and I'd rather not be in a public seat for it. This Venlil seemed a good sort anyway, so this shouBy the Sun what is that?!
An enormous black creature, needing to duck under the doorframe, filled the other half of the cabin, the sight of it launching me back into the far corner. My heart was pounding in my chest, my back to the wall and that thing blocked the only exit. My body refused my commands as it gasped and shook in the corner.
The Venlil motioned safety and calm, "It's ok! It's ok, I know she looks scary, but it's just her covering. She is very kind, and means no harm."
The solid shadow stood frozen, then moved slowly, seating itself on the bench opposite, as far from me as it could make itself.
The Venlil spoke again, "What's your name?"
âAh-Ahlvi. My name is Alvi.â
âHello Alvi.â He flicked a welcome, closing his eyes while he did so, âMy name is Valek. This is Maeve. What brings you on the train today?â
Slowing my breathing, I stuttered out âI-Iâm on my way to the Grove. Looking for work.â
Valek flipped his ears in joyful surprise, âThat's fantastic! We are heading that way too, to my familyâs farm, the Old Berrypatch. What kind of work did you do?"
"I--" I gulped, trying to keep my focus on the Venlil in front of me, rather than the void behind him. "S-Service s-sector. The company downsized, so I wanted to try something new, something smaller."
"That sounds really exciting! Maeve told me she used to do that back home." I could see the creature inch along the bench to my end of the room, but my body refused to move. It-- She-- was across from me now, its face and form covered by the impenetrable garment. The pair sat across from me in silence, looking at their pads; Valekâs ears occasionally flashed my direction to check on me, but the thing called Maeve seemed to not know I existed.
I sat pressed into the corner for several minutes, waiting for something to happen; an unfounded fear that rooted me, regardless. A while longer, and I had calmed enough to speak. âH-Hello, Maeve.â A fold of night returned my greeting; was that her tail? âWhy are you wearing that?â
She stood still for a moment, before Valekâs pad pinged again, and he passed it to me.
Hello Alvi, it's nice to meet you! I wear this because I look very scary, and I donât want to scare you.
Why are you typing instead of talking?
Iâm worried my voice will be scary too, but I do speak. Would you like me to?
I thought for a long moment, then, handing the pad back to Valek, answered, âYes, Iâd like to speak please.â
Valek swung his tail in joy, though Maeve didnât move; only took a slow breath before speaking,
âHello, Alvi.â
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submitted by cruisingNW to HFY [link] [comments]
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Memory transcription subject: Valek, Venlil-Human Partnership Program Participant
Date [standardized human time]: August 27th, 2136. Late afternoon
"Hold on, that's not fair!"
My ears pointed accusingly at the unfazed Venlil in front of me. Professor Tarva couldn't expect Maeve to spend all her time masked! How could the herd get used to her if all they saw was black wool?!
"No, it isn't fair, but it is necessary. Humans are already familiar with this garment, in fact it was the human half of our program that suggested it; they call it a Burka. Maeve has already proven mindful to avoid predatory tracking by using her periphery, and the color of her hair makes this particularly important. Need I remind you, she is the first human this herd has seen, but not the first predator! Some in your village have even survived the Arxur, or have you forgotten?"
I faltered at that reminder. Of course I knew that some of the town was more⌠sensitive than others. But this was Maeve! They would come around!
"But even at home?! Who can she scare when it's just me? You can't expect her to be herself in her own room?"
Always ready with a new reason, Tarva shot back, âFor now, yes, we can! Both Humanity and The Venlil have to make every effort to prevent an incident. If this doesn't go well, it could irreparably damage the entire alliance!â
I was losing ground, but I had to fight this! It wasnât fair!
âItâs ok, Valek,â Maeve soothed beside me, âI donât like it either, but Tarva is right.â speaking directly to Tarva now, who remained infuriatingly confident under the eyes of a predator, Maeve continued, âCan you include an ongoing review process in the terms? These⌠conditions youâve given us have no end date. I understand the immediate necessity, but this inflexibility is setting us up for failure.â
Tarva motioned calmness, âOur goal is to increase exposure incrementally. Based on what is in the medical report from your first meeting, Maeve has already proven herself able to introduce herself gently. We will check in directly every two paws, and keep a close eye on the news in the area. I understand that is not stated in this contract, we will include it for transparency.â
I was ready to push for more, but Maeve took my paw, âI think we can work with this Valek. I want this, and Iâm willing to work for it. Is this ok?â
My tail lashed, but my ears conceded. âFine; I see the line is drawn. The Grove will accept Maeve, youâll see.â Maeve smiled at me and I squeezed her hand while we made our marks on the contract.
With a visible sigh of relief, Tarva spoke gently, âThank you. We want this to work as much as you do, really, but we, and Iâm glad you two, understand the reality of what we are doing. I think Maeve is a fantastic representative of her species, and I know the Grove will accept her, eventually. The supply ship should have finished its landing by now, I'll let them know to expect you.â
Signaling dismissal, Tarva stood from her cushion and returned to her station, presumably contacting the supply ship.
Stepping out into the hall, my body let loose its coiled frustrations from the indignity, âWe should have pushed for more! Youâre not dangerous, and if the Herd is close-minded that's their loss. You shouldn't have to hide yourself for them.â
âWhat more could we have pushed for? The fact that Iâm allowed to go at all is a big win, and Iâm very thankful we convinced them to pay for a new bed-and-bath room for me. And the Burka is for my protection, not the Venlil.â
âWhat do you mean?â I asked, one ear locked on her, the other swiveling absently.
âLooking at the difficulties of other partners, I think a big reason for our success is that we started with text only, and using this garment will, hopefully, have the same effect in person.â
I knew she was right, but I was in no mood to hear it. âLets go to the mess and get something to eat. I need to bite something.â
âNo.â Maeve stated with finality, âWe are going to the room. I need to talk to you privately.â
The weight in her voice finally slowed my tail, and we were silent for the walk back. My nerves bundled as the silence weighed on us, before Maeve laid a hand on my shoulder to reassure me. Finally making it back to the room, Maeve motioned for me to enter first, and locked the door behind us. She stood in front of the door, balled fists on her hips, before taking a deep breath and relaxing.
âWhatâs going on? You walked into that office looking for a fight and were still pissy when we finally left.â Maeveâs eyes met mine, and I stood tall.
âThey were going to keep you hidden! Like some beast to be contained! Itâs not fair to you, and itâs not ok! Youâre not a danger and they should know that! This whole program has shown, without any doubt, that Humans are not a threat, and should be welcome among the Federation. They should be thankful that Humanity came to us first, and we should welcome you into the Herd! You know that! But you just let them tell us how to live --â
âHey! I know youâre mad but you donât get-- â Maeve stopped short, before taking another deep breath, âWe need to stop, and we both need to calm down.â And with that, she sat on the floor with her back against the door, watching me.
Looking back, it is with great shame that I remember what I said while I rambled for those ten minutes of just⌠so much anger. I railed against the perceived slights that I thought Tarva levied against us. I spouted insults and profanities at the injustices of my kind against the humans, unearned and poorly targeted. I even accused Maeve of not trying hard enough. It was only when my voice broke and I spent more time breathing than yelling, that I finally sat down exhausted, and further collapsed on the cold floor. Only after several breaths did I hear movement, as Maeve crawled from her seat by the door to my side, brushing my head slowly.
âFeel better?â Maeve asked, quietly.
â...... no.â I admitted, ruefully.
âThis is unfair, and frustrating. Youâre right to be angry, but Iâve never seen you, or really any Venlil, like this. Is there something else going on?â
My tail flicked dismissively, and my ears flattened to the back of my head angrily.
âDoes this have something to do with⌠us?â
Suddenly everything clicked, and my body went still from the realization: I was scared I would lose Maeve. Finally letting it sink in that I, that We, were safe, I spoke up. âYou weren't my first. My first was as a Relief Partner for a friend. We were good friends, and she trusted me to help her through her cycles for an orbit or two, but there wasnât⌠love in it. There was trust, and⌠convenience. Iâve never felt this way with anyone, Iâve never thought of a future with anyone. And the idea that our relationship, that whether or not we can stay together, is determined by someone elseâs fears and politics⌠It's terrifying. â
Maeve lowered her body to lay with me on the ground, my back against her. Winding her arm around me, she pulled me against her as if to squeeze her assurances into me. âThere is nothing anyone, Venlil, Human, or otherwise, could ever hope to do to keep us apart. Even if everything goes wrong, and Iâm forced to leave, I will find a way to keep us together.â Finishing with a soft kiss on my crown, she released her grip and helped me up. I spoke with my ears back and tail curled in regret and shame.
âIâm sorry for what I said. I wonât deny that I felt what I felt, but I know that what I said was meant to hurt. It was cruel, and not who I am or who I want to be for you. I cannot ask for it, but I hope I can earn your forgiveness.â
Maeve brushed her hand against my snout, and smiled, âThank you. It did hurt, but I know it was said in fear. I forgive you.â
âOK!â Maeve clapped her hands together, âlet's get packed. I want to get a snack before we get on the ship, so we don't have a lot of time.â
--
Maeve and I had fallen into a comfortable silence, broken when we got to the shuttle bay. Tarva was waiting there with a human soldier, carrying a bundle of black fabric. âHello Cuties! Excited to see VP, Maeve?â Tarvaâs boisterousness prompted a polite smile and nervous laugh from my sunlight, âyeah you should be! Itâs gorgeous, and Iâm glad you're going to see so much of it. Youâre going to be landing in the Capital, and taking the Ring to Hidden Plains from there; Iâm sure Valek can tell you more on the way. This is your Burka,â she said, motioning to the bundle, âWe ask that you put it on before entering the shuttle bay. The Pilot doesnât normally take passengers, and heâs only seen humans from a distance, so we are well outside his comfort zone. As mentioned in the Terms of your hosting, you will need to continue wearing this anywhere unfamiliar Venlil may be, which would include transit all the way to your room.â Maeve deflated at this; this meant several hours under that thing. But she straightened her shoulders and nodded assent. âWe have modified the phrasing for that condition, which will allow you to be without it anywhere you and your handler can reasonably believe no unfamiliar Venlil will be, as well as guidelines for what is 'unfamiliar'; I hope that will help.â
Maeve and I were all smiles and wags, thanking Tarva profusely before she continued, âWeâre still doing the paperwork for construction of Maeveâs guest room, so im sorry, but it won't be done for a several days; you may need to share a room for bit.â
âTh-That's ok, I can sleep on the couch.â I stuttered.
Tarva flicked her tail in thinly disguised amusement, âRight. Iâm sure the âcouchâ is very comfortable. You didnât hear that, Private.â
âNo, maam.â the soldier agreed, eyes boring into the wall opposite. Maeve flushed and I shifted nervously.
âThe work is already paid for, but you can contact your handler if you have any other large financial needs, including clothing; Besides that, you are being provided a stipend in credits, we worked with humans to establish something as close to âsubsistence wageâ as we could figure. Valek, you and your family will be financially supporting Maeve for non-necessities. We are still working with human doctors to establish what, if any, supplements you will need, hopefully you'll see that in a week or so.â
âOk, we got housing, finances, food⌠That's about it! Any questions for me?â Maeve and I declined, and Tarva finished, âAlright! Private Jensen, give the lady her finery, and follow me; our next stop is the Med Lab, I need your help with something expensive.â Then calling over her shoulder, âHave a nice flight you two!â
--
We safely landed, and I was practically bouncing to show Maeve my world! I have to admit, the Burka kept people from panicking, but we were given a very wide berth wherever we went. Not wanting to rush through our peopleâs capital, I wandered with Maeve through the city to notable parks and landmarks. We visited the viewing platform on The Giant, a massive skyscraper and a marvel of engineering built in defiance of the strong winds of Venlil Prime. We stopped by a sweets shop and tried some Crystal Cuties! Maeve was thankful for the finger food, as the Burka made eating a challenge.
I asked to stop at one more place, somewhere I try to get to every time I come to the Capital: the Cattle Memoriam. A large park in the middle of a split in the city; no one dared impede the Day from this place. A base made of solid white granite supports a statue of Twinkling Ivy in the shape of a venlil pup held in a cage, holding a broken collar. Made of solid Morningâs Light, this iridescent gold metal burns away its tarnish in harsh sunlight; this memorial will never lose its luster under the Venlil Sun.
I brought Maeve forward, but she pulled away. âThis place is not for me. Please, pay your respects, Iâll stay here.â
I walked along one of the clear paths, every open space outside choked with gifts and remembrances. Letters, photos, anniversary gifts; the occasional Strayu, some half eaten by a family, most with only a small piece missing. No one was untouched by this war, and I was no exception. I came to the foot of the memorial, and raised my snout to the Day. I brought my tail to my chest, and held the tuft. I flapped my ears behind me. Once for my Brother, lost in a colony raid. My parents begged him not to go, but I encouraged him to wander beyond the Grove. Once for my Relief Partner, missing on a trading vessel to Nishtal, never arrived and never returned. I didnât tell her how I felt. Once for my Professor, the old exterminator joined the front when the Arxur last tested Venlil Prime. I didn't like him, but he didn't deserve to die.
I turned my body and snout to the Night, and bowed my head, wishing the quiet passing of all those lost, and the healing of my peopleâs grief. With a heavy sigh, I returned to Maeve, who stood at my return. âIâm sorry for your loss. I hope for their safe return, or peaceful restâ I blinked away my grief, and took Maeveâs hand, continuing our journey.
--
Memory transcription subject: Alvi, Venlil Citizen, Unemployed.
Date [standardized human time]: August 26th, 2136. Early evening
I was still drying my tears when I finally got to the station. Out of rent money, and my landlord getting pushy anyway, I thought I'd move to The Grove after seeing a "help wanted" post; everyone needs farmers. Dragging my packed pack, I stepped onto the train and tried to find a seat. Finding none, I thought to squat in one of the private cabins. As expensive as they were, there was bound to be a few empties; and I was rewarded for my ingenuity, untilâŚ
The door slid open in front of me, and a black and gray speckled Venlil filled the doorway, speaking to an unseen companion, "...dler to get a side facing the sun, so we should have-- oh! Hello!"
I sat frozen in my seat, unsure how to get out of this, while the Venlil began again, "I'm sorry, this is a private cabin, would you pl--" a shadow seemed to cover his shoulder, and he shifted his attention to his side, "... are you sure?" I heard only the train and passengers, but they communicated regardless, "Ok." Then addressing me, "Maeve is inviting you to stay with us, if you like. The cabin is already paid for, and we wouldn't mind the company. Can we come in?"
I was thankful for the allowance, and flicked my tail in welcome. I'd need to sleep on this ride and I'd rather not be in a public seat for it. This Venlil seemed a good sort anyway, so this shouBy the Sun what is that?!
An enormous black creature, needing to duck under the doorframe, filled the other half of the cabin, the sight of it launching me back into the far corner. My heart was pounding in my chest, my back to the wall and that thing blocked the only exit. My body refused my commands as it gasped and shook in the corner.
The Venlil motioned safety and calm, "It's ok! It's ok, I know she looks scary, but it's just her covering. She is very kind, and means no harm."
The solid shadow stood frozen, then moved slowly, seating itself on the bench opposite, as far from me as it could make itself.
The Venlil spoke again, "What's your name?"
âAh-Ahlvi. My name is Alvi.â
âHello Alvi.â He flicked a welcome, closing his eyes while he did so, âMy name is Valek. This is Maeve. What brings you on the train today?â
Slowing my breathing, I stuttered out âI-Iâm on my way to the Grove. Looking for work.â
Valek flipped his ears in joyful surprise, âThat's fantastic! We are heading that way too, to my familyâs farm, the Old Berrypatch. What kind of work did you do?"
"I--" I gulped, trying to keep my focus on the Venlil in front of me, rather than the void behind him. "S-Service s-sector. The company downsized, so I wanted to try something new, something smaller."
"That sounds really exciting! Maeve told me she used to do that back home." I could see the creature inch along the bench to my end of the room, but my body refused to move. It-- She-- was across from me now, its face and form covered by the impenetrable garment. The pair sat across from me in silence, looking at their pads; Valekâs ears occasionally flashed my direction to check on me, but the thing called Maeve seemed to not know I existed.
I sat pressed into the corner for several minutes, waiting for something to happen; an unfounded fear that rooted me, regardless. A while longer, and I had calmed enough to speak. âH-Hello, Maeve.â A fold of night returned my greeting; was that her tail? âWhy are you wearing that?â
She stood still for a moment, before Valekâs pad pinged again, and he passed it to me.
Hello Alvi, it's nice to meet you! I wear this because I look very scary, and I donât want to scare you.
Why are you typing instead of talking?
Iâm worried my voice will be scary too, but I do speak. Would you like me to?
I thought for a long moment, then, handing the pad back to Valek, answered, âYes, Iâd like to speak please.â
Valek swung his tail in joy, though Maeve didnât move; only took a slow breath before speaking,
âHello, Alvi.â
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Journal of Camille Lambert - April 13th
As we drove back to Puriysk in the morning I watched the landscape pass me by with a quiet melancholy and promised myself that Iâd see it all again soon.
Dom sat in the back seat of the SUV beside me while Nina drove, contentedly munching on a fresh bag of sunflower seeds as the ruined church loomed ahead of us.
âSo the first order of business is evacuation, right?â Dom asked, âIn which case, Iâve gotta ask, how exactly do we factor into this?â
âRight now, Miloâs thinking you two can help with the Thompson Falls evacuation,â Nina said. âItâd probably be helpful to have a couple of locals there to make sure people know weâre actually here to help, as opposed to just another group of jackoffs bringing in a fresh batch of misery. Although it sounds like Iâm gonna be stuck in Puriysk for the time being,â
âYouâre not coming with?â I asked.
âNah, Milo wants me around in case Calhoun tries anything. Iâll probably be with Gretchen in the archive, looking for anything useful. Fun, fun, fun.â
âSo youâre with Dr. Di Cesare? I asked, âShould be interesting at least.â I said.
âI could be worse off,â Nina admitted, âItâs hard to get a read on her, but if Milo trusts her, so do I. Besides from what Iâve heard, sheâs one of the most powerful witches out there, which is probably saying a lot considering the fact that sheâs a Di Cesare. Just about all of them are powerful witches, and theyâve got some serious pull among vampires.â
âSheâs a vampire?â I asked. I thought back to the way sheâd been out and nothing about her stood out as anything particularly âvampire-ishâ. She was a little pale, I guess. But so was Dom and I was pretty sure he wasnât a vampire!
âThe whole Di Cesare family is,â Nina said before noticing my obvious concern, âDonât worry about it, most vampires are pretty safe. Miloâs probably got some volunteers lined up to keep her supplied with fresh blood as she needs it. Plus, the Di Cesareâs are generally pretty peaceful. I wouldnât pick a fight with them, but they donât cause that much trouble unprovoked.â
âDo you know a lot of the Di Cesareâs?â I asked. Nina just shrugged.
âI met a couple of her sisters on a trip to Greece last year through some mutual friends but that was more of a social thing,â She said. âFrom what I heard, Gretchen doesnât really get out much. Iâm a little surprised that Milo was able to bring her in on this, but then again Milo could probably sell vodka at an AA meeting.â
Somehow I didnât doubt that.
âSo how long do you think the evacuation might take?â Dom asked, âHow long until we shift focus to Calhoun?â
âShouldnât be that long,â Nina said. âMilo wants this run pretty smoothly. A few days, give or take. The hard part is gonna be what to do with everyone once theyâre on the outside. Not sure how Miloâs gonna manage, but thatâs above my pay grade. Iâm just gonna assume heâs figured something out. Donât worry. If everything goes to plan, weâll be done with this in the next week or so and you two can go back to your hotel room for âcoffeeâ.â
Both Dom and I looked over at her.
âThin walls,â She replied, not even taking her eyes off the road. I caught Dom turning bright red before he looked out the window, trying to end this conversation as quickly as possible.
The church was just ahead of us, although now I barely recognized it. Several large metal poles had been put up, bearing familiar sigils on them. I noticed white spray paint in the grass, marking a larger ritual circle. Several tents had been set up in an area outside of the ritual circle and I could see people near them. The people from Puriysk, most likely. There were even more tents that sat empty nearby, no doubt waiting for the refugees from the other towns.
I could see smoke rising from the collapsed roof of the church itself. Our bonfire from the other night still seemed to be going strong. That was probably a good thing. I could see other trucks parked outside the church, with other tents surrounded by soldiers. This looked to be some kind of staging area, although I never got a good look at the finer details of it.
Nina drove past the metal poles, before following a worn path in the road leading to a second set of poles. A doorway back to Puriysk.
As we drew closer to the second set of poles, I noticed a thin mist swirling around the car. I didnât realize I was holding my breath as we passed them until weâd actually passed them and I was greeted by the familiar dense forest Iâd always known.
I looked back at the church, which was quickly swallowed up by the mist again, and relaxed back into my seat as we returned to Puriysk.
Weâd only been gone for a day or so, but Puriysk already looked different than it had when weâd left. Tents had been set up along the main drag and I could see soldiers along the street, all of them relatively heavily armed. Some of them had their faces visible, others wore those netlike veils weâd seen the other night, giving them a more inhuman appearance.
âWhatâs the point of the nets?â Dom asked, watching as we passed a group of soldiers.
âIt breaks up the silhouette or something,â Nina said. âPlus it hides the face. We went over it during the training. Why, you want one?â
âJust wondering,â Dom said, âNever seen anything like this before.â
âItâs more of a special forces type thing,â Nina said, âTechnically the FRB doesnât really do spec ops and shit like that. But I know weâve got a number of ex military types with us. Milo said something about bringing them in.â
âHow many do you think theyâve got?â I asked.
âA couple hundred boots on the ground, I think. Probably fifty or so more just working to support them. Itâs not exactly a massive operation, but itâs big by our standards.â
Dom just nodded passively, his attention still focused on the passing soldiers.
Nina stopped the car in front of a large white RV parked near the ruins of the Deputyâs Office. I could see Durand standing out front of it. Heâd traded his nice suit from the night before for a more practical outfit, jeans, a polo shirt, and a handgun holstered at his hip. As Nina got out of the car, Milo walked over to greet her.
âLove what youâve done with the place.â She said. âThe tents and the soldiers were exactly what was missing here.â
âOh, itâll all come together once we get the power back on,â Milo said. âEverything shut off in the night. Weâve got some backup generators, but itâs still a pain in the ass.â
âCalhoun shut off the power?â Dom asked as he and I got out of the car.
âIf not him, then somebody. We sent some folks out to Rankin Mills to see if they canât get it up and running again. With any luck we should be back to normal shortly. In the meanwhile, Iâve been helping Gretchen bring some stuff up from the archives. Sheâs in the RV, looking through what Iâve found so far. But I could use a hand going through the rest of it.â
âYou got it, boss man,â Nina said. âI saw some interesting shit by the south corner that might be useful.â
âWhat about us?â I asked, âNina said something about us helping with the evacuation.
âYes, actually I had the perfect job in mind for you two,â Durand said. âWe could use some friendly faces going in to the towns to make the evacuation go a bit smoother. Natalyaâs been a huge help here in Puriysk. Weâre hoping to get the same results in the other towns.â
âSonya in Thompson Falls would know to trust Dom,â I said. âIf you can get her on your side, she can probably get most of the town to come along. As for Bakersfield, my Mom lives there. I could help with that team, if you wanted.â
Durand raised an eyebrow.
âYou donât say?â He asked, âYou should tell that to Kallas, then. Heâs down by the town hall, getting the Bakersfield and Thompson Falls teams organized.â
âGot it,â I said before giving Nina a parting nod, âI guess Iâll see you when we get backâ
âSee you when you get back,â Nina replied and gave us a parting weave before turning and heading over to the Deputyâs Office with Durand. As she left, Dom and I started down the street toward a group of trucks and tents near the Puriysk town hall.
It was time to get to work.
***
I was on the first of the Bakersfield trucks as they left and as we drove through the old familiar forest, I watched it with a conflicted nostalgia. On one hand, these misty woods were all Iâd ever really known and I realized that thereâd be a part of me that would miss them when at last I left them behind forever. Of course, knowing what I knew now about our situation ensured I wouldnât miss them too much, but Iâd miss them all the same.
My Mom always used to have a fondness for obscure words. Sheâd been an English teacher once upon a time, so I guess that made sense for her.
âLanguage is so fascinating,â sheâd said to me once. âYou know, thereâs some beautiful words out there for such complex emotions.â
Looking out the window, a few of those words came to mind.
Like: âRĂźckkehrunruhe.â
âItâs this feeling of returning home after a trip, only to find it fading into your memory to the point where it no longer feels real⌠can you imagine.â Sheâd laughed sadly at that.
âYou know, sometimes I canât help but feel that way about the old world. I shouldnât idealize it. It wasnât perfect, but⌠I wouldâve loved for you to see it.â
And I had seen it, hadnât I? What would she say when I told her? What would she say when I came to Bakersfield with a convoy of trucks, come to bring her and everyone else home again. Out of this beautiful, cruel world and back into the one sheâd missed for so long. I could already imagine the way that her eyes would light up⌠I could already imagine her smile. Itâd been a few weeks since Iâd seen her⌠I hoped she was doing okay.
âHereâs another one I like⌠Occhiolism. It describes the awareness of the smallness of your own perspective. Do you understand what Iâm talking about? That⌠melancholy, you sometimes feel when you reflect on your own experiences despite knowing how much more is out there. Or⌠am I thinking of Onism? No⌠no⌠although they are similar. Do you know what Onism means? It describes the frustration of having to live in just one body, that can only be in one place at a time.â
âMom, what are you talking about?â Iâd asked her. Sheâd looked up from the book sheâd been reading and smiled sheepishly at me.
âSorry⌠I guess I just feel like sharing these with someone. They are interesting, donât you think?â
âYeah, I guess they are,â I said, mostly just to be polite. Sheâd paused for a moment, almost closing the book.
âYou can keep going!â I said, âCome on, tell me another one.â
âHow about âNodus Tollensâ. Itâs the realization that the plot of your life doesnât make sense to you anymore. You know I sort of like the wording there. Speaking of life like a story to be toldâŚâ
The truck turned and I recognized the landmark weâd just passed. An old, crumbling house that had been abandoned for as long as I could remember. Bakersfield was just ahead. I perked up a little bit and looked over at the driver beside me.
âItâs just up ahead,â I said. âDo you need directions to the house?â
âYes please,â The Driver said.
âRight, once you see the Whitman farm on the right you know youâre in Bakersfield. From there, you just keep on the main road until you reach the downtown area. Thereâs sort of a suburb right past that andâŚâ
My voice died in my throat as I caught a glimpse of what was in the mist ahead of us. I could see the familiar fence of the Whitman farm just up ahead but something seemed wrong.
âIs the mist always this heavy?â The driver asked.
âNot hereâŚâ I replied. Iâd never seen it this heavy in any of the towns before. We could barely see a few feet in front of us. I tried to get a better look at the fence. Tried to understand why it looked so wrong. It almost seemed to be tangled in vines or branches or something.
And as we drove closer to the storefront of the farm itself, I noticed the same vines growing over the store. The sign that read âWHITMAN FARMSâ was almost unreadable behind the branches. The driver stared at it with narrowed eyes before reaching for his radio.
âTransports 2 to 10, status yellow. Keep on alert.â
The farm faded away into the distance and as it did, I looked ahead anxiously. I could see the downtown area just up ahead, and even from a distance I could see the vines growing over the buildings. I stared with wide, uneasy eyes as we got closer⌠and when I saw the people on the street, I felt a sinking horror burrowing through my chest.
Most of them seemed as if theyâd either been trying to run or had been pulled to the ground⌠and honestly, I only barely still recognized them as people. I could see clothes and sometimes jewelry through the vines⌠but the skin beneath it all looked no different than the wood that bound them.
I looked over at the driver beside me to see an uneasy dread written all over his face. He looked at the silent figures we passed with the same horror I knew that I felt⌠and I knew that just like me, he had no answers.
âWhat the hell is thisâŚâ He said under his breath.
âI donât know., Came my honest reply.
Thick branches seemed to burst from the concrete sidewalks, ensnaring those whoâd once passed them by. I could see an upended baby stroller on the street, one of the branches burrowing into it, and felt my heart seize in my chest. As I drank in the eerie silence of Bakersfield, the knowing gnawed at the back of my mindâŚ
âDrive faster,â I said. âThird turn up ahead. Take a right.â
âMaâamâŚ?â The Driver asked.
âNow!â I said.
He looked at me, silently understanding what I was asking and why. The truck sped up, blowing past stop signs and darkened stoplights. I donât suppose that it mattered. There were no other vehicles on the road. He only slowed a little for the turn and even then, he took it fast.
âTake Lake Street, itâs the fifth house,â I said and waited for him to take the turn. As we drove, I kept glancing at every house we passed. I could see branches jutting in through their windows⌠and darkness within.
No⌠no, no, noâŚ
The truck took its final turn. I could see Momâs house up ahead.
âThat one!â I said, pointing it out.
He didnât even have time to stop fully before Iâd thrown open the door and was getting out.
Momâs house was no different than the others. The vines had grown along the sides, even slipping under the pastel siding in some places and prying it off the outside walls. Thick branches jutted out of the earth and had through some of the walls.
âNoâŚâ I said under my breath. Before I even knew what I was doing, I was running. I unlocked her door and tore inside, looking around frantically.
âMom?â I called, but there was no answer. Only mist and silence.
âMOM?!â I called again, running down the hall toward her bedroom. I didnât see her there either⌠but I did see her bathroom door hanging open, and I could see the ivy, growing out from the door and crawling along her carpet. On legs like jelly, I started toward the door. With one trembling hand, I pushed it open, knowing what Iâd see inside but praying to whatever God might listen that it wouldnât be there.
The branches that entombed her didnât cover her face. Her skin was gray, almost blending in to the wood itself⌠but I still recognized her. Her eyes were half open, as was her mouth, and the moment I saw her, I knew she was past saving.
âNo⌠no⌠noâŚâ The word tumbled meaninglessly out of my mouth as my legs gave out from under me, sending me crashing down to the ground. The tears began to fall and soon, the only thing I could do was scream.
***
âHereâs an eerie one⌠Kenopsia. It describes the forlorn, unsettling atmosphere of a place that is usually filled with people, but is now quiet and abandoned.â
Momâs voice echoed in my mind as I sat in the tent back in Puriysk.
The past few hours seemed like a blur. I could remember the trip to Bakersfield and the sight of her body. But everything after felt like a half remembered dream.
I hadnât been able to stay in Bakersfield⌠there wasnât any point to my staying and I could barely even remember a single detail about the drive back. It all just happened around me, as the reality of what Iâd seen untethered me from the present moment and cast me adrift and mindless in time. My hands were still shaking a little and though my breathing had calmed down, my heart certainly hadnât. I could still feel it racing.
âRubatosis⌠the uncomfortable sensation of being aware of ones own heartbeat. Huh⌠you know, I always wondered if everyone else was uncomfortable being aware of that. Feeling your own pulse and stuff like that⌠do you ever get that, Cammy?â
âCam?â
I looked up to see Nina standing at the door to the tent. Her expression was grave and her voice, heavier than usual.
âHowâre you holding up?â She asked.
I didnât answer. I didnât need to. She approached my table and sat down beside me.
âI brought you a drink. Wasnât sure if youâd want something hard or not, so I technically got two, butâŚâ
I saw the beer in her hand and quietly took it although I didnât immediately take a drink. Nina watched me for a moment, before sighing and opening her own drink. And for a few minutes, thatâs just how we stayed.
âKallas said he found some holdouts after you left,â Nina said after a while. âHe got back with them about an hour ago.â
I looked over at her.
âHow many?â I asked. Nina hesitated before answering.
âTwenty⌠maybe thirty.â
I felt the weight in my chest drop even lower. Twenty or thirty⌠thereâd been hundreds of people in Bakersfield, and weâd only brought back twenty or thirty.
I looked back at Nina. She was staring down at her drink, and I knew that there was more.
âWhat about Thompson FallsâŚ?â I asked, âOr Rankin?â
âWeâre meeting with Milo to go through it in ten minutes,â She said. âYou donât need to go but⌠I think you should be there. Better you know sooner rather than later.â
âHow bad is it?â I asked softly.
âBad,â Nina replied, before taking a sip of her drink. âItâs the same story in Rankin and Thompson⌠weâve got survivors. But not a lot.â
âSonyaâŚ?â I asked.
âAlive, thankfully,â Nina said. âAlong with most of the people who were inside the Roadhouse.â
I closed my eyes and exhaled, feeling that weight lift just a little bit. At least there was some good news.
I finally took a sip of my drink. Nina seemed to want to say more but stopped herself. I couldnât really blame her. She probably knew just how little there was to say here.
âYou said you lost your mother, right?â I asked. âHow did youâŚâ
âHow did I handle it?â She finished. I nodded.
Nina seemed to think over her answer for a few minutes before finally speaking.
âIâve got two different ways to answer that question,â She said. âFor the grief⌠you just learn to live with it. You make your peace, you carry them in your heart and you thank God for the good memories. I know it doesnât sound like it helps much, but really thatâs the only thing I can offer you. As for the anger⌠the only fix for that is retribution, edgy as it sounds. And for someone like Calhoun, the only thing you can do is take an eye for an eye.â
âIs that what you did?â I asked.
She nodded.
âI know a lot of people whoâll tell you that revenge isnât the answer. But personally, I think theyâre asking the wrong question. The vampires that killed my Mom were⌠they were monsters. A couple of assholes with delusions of grandeur were convinced that they could do whatever they wanted, and nobody would stop them. And for the longest time, they were right. Hunting them down and killing them⌠it didnât fix anything. It didnât undo what theyâd done. But it sure as hell made me feel better. Not because I got revenge, but because I got the personal satisfaction of making sure that karma caught right the fuck up to them. And I sleep a hell of a lot better at night, knowing thatâs what I did.
I nodded in agreement.
âI think I would too,â I said.
***
âWhat I want to know is whyâŚâ Durand said as we sat around the table. He almost looked like a completely different man from when Iâd seen him that morning. He drummed his fingers on his desk and kept smoothing down his hair.
Dom sat beside me, a little quieter than usual with his arms tightly folded to his chest. He stared down at the table but didnât seem to actually be looking at anything.
âRankin Mills, Bakersfield, Thompson Falls⌠why? They were his own goddamn people!â
âNot for much longer,â Dr. Di Cesare said. She was the only one at the table without a grim expression. âCalhoun was most certainly aware of our operations. Provided he had no other immediate means to disrupt them, then this course of action may have simply been the most effective.â
âThe most effective?â Nina asked incredulously, âWeâve only been working this job for a few days, and the first thing this asshole did was throw all of his toys out of the fucking pram. âIf I canât have them, no one can.ââ
âWe were lucky to get about fifty people out of Thompson Falls!â Dom added, âFifty, out of five hundred!â
âWe only got four out of Rankin MillsâŚâ Kallas said. âThe rest were tangled in those branches⌠Iâve never seen anything like it.â
âConsidering the unprecedented control Calhoun demonstrates here, unprecedented occurrences should be expected,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âBut I must admit, it is fascinating. Given the chance, Iâd like to visit the afflicted areas for further study. Although I do also appreciate the samples your team provided, Mr. Kallas. Much obliged.â
Kallas ignored her comment before looking at Milo.
âSo where exactly do we go from here?â He asked, âAfter today, thereâs not a hell of a lot left to rescue!â
âIâm aware,â Durand said. âBut letâs try and stay focused on the ones we did get out. We should keep a close eye on the towns too just in case. There may be some stragglers we missed.â
He looked up at Dom next.
âCorrect me if Iâm wrong but by taking out Rankin Mills and Bakersfield, heâs shot himself in the foot too, hasnât he?â He asked, âIâd imagine that Parsons would be without food and power too, now.â
âNot exactly,â Dom said. âParsons has its own power plant. Itâs not exactly as powerful as the one in Rankin Mills, but from what Iâve heard it should be enough to keep the town running. As for the food supply, that might be a little dicier. But Iâm willing to bet that Calhoun has a fix for that too.â
âGiven his implied ability to come and go as he pleases from this Pocket Reality, as well as the lack of a sufficient explanation for where his fuel and ammunition comes from, itâs reasonable to assume that outside supply lines do exist,â Dr. Di Cesare said, before pausing to think. She checked something in her notebook before looking back at us. âA theoryâŚâ She said, âI agree that leaping to such a drastic response so early in our operation does seem unusual. What if this move wasnât petty, but practical?â
âPractical?â Durand asked.
âAs of now, Calhoun has brought five towns into the pocket over at minimum a fifty year period. Why stagger them so far apart?â
âWell Iâd imagine itâd take a hell of a lot of juice to pull off something like this,â Durand said and Dr. Di Cesare shook her head.
âCorrect, but not relevant. Power is not the issue. Timing is. Calhoun must have been aware that someone could come for him. Hence, he moved slowly. Avoided drawing attention. He was only discovered by accident. Had that accident not occurred, he could have continued to operate for decades more, but I digress. Us here right now may stand as a realization of one of his greatest fears. Discovery. Opposition. Now that he has seen his fears realized. It may explain his drastic actions. Perhaps this is not an act of pettiness⌠but of sacrifice.â
The rest of us at the table were quiet. I was the one who broke the silence.
âSacrifice to what?â I asked.
âCountless Gods dwell within the Midnight Grove, each offering various gifts in exchange for souls. With enough souls to trade, Calhoun could very quickly evolve from a problem into a genuine threat. Running the numbers⌠it makes too much sense. The towns technically remain under his control. The people may be gone, but the people can be replaced. And having obtained the power to drive us off, what reason would Calhoun have to continue to develop this place at its previous steady pace? He could⌠no, he would need to push for a more aggressive expansion to compensate for his losses. And with the assurance that we and likely others could do little to stop him, I see no incentive for him not to do exactly that.â
âSo what, this is some kind of power move?â Nina asked, âNow that he sees what heâs up against, heâs trying to bulk up?â
âIt would be the sensible thing to do,â Dr. Di Cesare said. For the first time since Iâd met her, she looked genuinely troubled.
I saw Durandâs brow crease.
âIf thatâs what heâs up to, then we need to deal with him sooner or later. Gretchen, Kallas we need to go over the estimated death toll. Calhoun just killed a whole hell of a lot of people. I wanna have some idea of what he might be trying to buy.â
âNo need. It would be impossible to predict,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âThe terms of whatever agreement he may have entered into would be known only to him, the Eldest and whatever entity heâs looking to barter with⌠and given what heâs already done, time may be against us. Immediate action needs to be taken.â
She reached into her coat again to take out the revolver. She set it on the table again.
âWe have a means of execution. All we need now is opportunity.â
âHow many bullets are in that gun?â Nina asked.
âThe cylinder holds six, we have five remaining,â Dr. Di Cesare replied. âGiven time and resources, I could make more, but-â
âYou just said that we donât have time,â Nina replied. âWe only need one to kill him. Five should more than do the trick.â
Dr. Di Cesare nodded.
âAgreed,â She said.
âSo if we can kill the fucker, letâs just do it and get it over with,â Dom said. He looked over at me. I gave no response, I just looked down at the gun and remembered what it had done to the Nightwalker the other night.
I wouldâve loved to see it do the same to Calhoun.
Durand was also staring down at the gun, and after a moment gave a single, tense nod.
âAlright,â He finally said. âKallas, I need you to continue overseeing the evacuation. Double time it, make sure everyone gets out. Do whatever you have to. And Valentine, Iâm giving you the official go ahead to find Ben Calhoun and deal with him by any means necessary.â
âItâd be my genuine pleasure,â Valentine said.
âGood. Then letâs get-â
A klaxon alarm sounded from somewhere outside, cutting Durand off.
âProximity warning,â Kallas said. âSomethingâs coming.â
âNightwalkers?â Dom asked.
âBut itâs not dark yet!â I replied.
Durand just pushed past us, stepping out of the tent with the rest of us right behind him. The sky was still bright, but we could see mist flowing in past the empty buildings and the FRBâs tents and inside the mist, we could see the shadows of what was coming.
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Journal of Camille Lambert - April 13th
As we drove back to Puriysk in the morning I watched the landscape pass me by with a quiet melancholy and promised myself that Iâd see it all again soon.
Dom sat in the back seat of the SUV beside me while Nina drove, contentedly munching on a fresh bag of sunflower seeds as the ruined church loomed ahead of us.
âSo the first order of business is evacuation, right?â Dom asked, âIn which case, Iâve gotta ask, how exactly do we factor into this?â
âRight now, Miloâs thinking you two can help with the Thompson Falls evacuation,â Nina said. âItâd probably be helpful to have a couple of locals there to make sure people know weâre actually here to help, as opposed to just another group of jackoffs bringing in a fresh batch of misery. Although it sounds like Iâm gonna be stuck in Puriysk for the time being,â
âYouâre not coming with?â I asked.
âNah, Milo wants me around in case Calhoun tries anything. Iâll probably be with Gretchen in the archive, looking for anything useful. Fun, fun, fun.â
âSo youâre with Dr. Di Cesare? I asked, âShould be interesting at least.â I said.
âI could be worse off,â Nina admitted, âItâs hard to get a read on her, but if Milo trusts her, so do I. Besides from what Iâve heard, sheâs one of the most powerful witches out there, which is probably saying a lot considering the fact that sheâs a Di Cesare. Just about all of them are powerful witches, and theyâve got some serious pull among vampires.â
âSheâs a vampire?â I asked. I thought back to the way sheâd been out and nothing about her stood out as anything particularly âvampire-ishâ. She was a little pale, I guess. But so was Dom and I was pretty sure he wasnât a vampire!
âThe whole Di Cesare family is,â Nina said before noticing my obvious concern, âDonât worry about it, most vampires are pretty safe. Miloâs probably got some volunteers lined up to keep her supplied with fresh blood as she needs it. Plus, the Di Cesareâs are generally pretty peaceful. I wouldnât pick a fight with them, but they donât cause that much trouble unprovoked.â
âDo you know a lot of the Di Cesareâs?â I asked. Nina just shrugged.
âI met a couple of her sisters on a trip to Greece last year through some mutual friends but that was more of a social thing,â She said. âFrom what I heard, Gretchen doesnât really get out much. Iâm a little surprised that Milo was able to bring her in on this, but then again Milo could probably sell vodka at an AA meeting.â
Somehow I didnât doubt that.
âSo how long do you think the evacuation might take?â Dom asked, âHow long until we shift focus to Calhoun?â
âShouldnât be that long,â Nina said. âMilo wants this run pretty smoothly. A few days, give or take. The hard part is gonna be what to do with everyone once theyâre on the outside. Not sure how Miloâs gonna manage, but thatâs above my pay grade. Iâm just gonna assume heâs figured something out. Donât worry. If everything goes to plan, weâll be done with this in the next week or so and you two can go back to your hotel room for âcoffeeâ.â
Both Dom and I looked over at her.
âThin walls,â She replied, not even taking her eyes off the road. I caught Dom turning bright red before he looked out the window, trying to end this conversation as quickly as possible.
The church was just ahead of us, although now I barely recognized it. Several large metal poles had been put up, bearing familiar sigils on them. I noticed white spray paint in the grass, marking a larger ritual circle. Several tents had been set up in an area outside of the ritual circle and I could see people near them. The people from Puriysk, most likely. There were even more tents that sat empty nearby, no doubt waiting for the refugees from the other towns.
I could see smoke rising from the collapsed roof of the church itself. Our bonfire from the other night still seemed to be going strong. That was probably a good thing. I could see other trucks parked outside the church, with other tents surrounded by soldiers. This looked to be some kind of staging area, although I never got a good look at the finer details of it.
Nina drove past the metal poles, before following a worn path in the road leading to a second set of poles. A doorway back to Puriysk.
As we drew closer to the second set of poles, I noticed a thin mist swirling around the car. I didnât realize I was holding my breath as we passed them until weâd actually passed them and I was greeted by the familiar dense forest Iâd always known.
I looked back at the church, which was quickly swallowed up by the mist again, and relaxed back into my seat as we returned to Puriysk.
Weâd only been gone for a day or so, but Puriysk already looked different than it had when weâd left. Tents had been set up along the main drag and I could see soldiers along the street, all of them relatively heavily armed. Some of them had their faces visible, others wore those netlike veils weâd seen the other night, giving them a more inhuman appearance.
âWhatâs the point of the nets?â Dom asked, watching as we passed a group of soldiers.
âIt breaks up the silhouette or something,â Nina said. âPlus it hides the face. We went over it during the training. Why, you want one?â
âJust wondering,â Dom said, âNever seen anything like this before.â
âItâs more of a special forces type thing,â Nina said, âTechnically the FRB doesnât really do spec ops and shit like that. But I know weâve got a number of ex military types with us. Milo said something about bringing them in.â
âHow many do you think theyâve got?â I asked.
âA couple hundred boots on the ground, I think. Probably fifty or so more just working to support them. Itâs not exactly a massive operation, but itâs big by our standards.â
Dom just nodded passively, his attention still focused on the passing soldiers.
Nina stopped the car in front of a large white RV parked near the ruins of the Deputyâs Office. I could see Durand standing out front of it. Heâd traded his nice suit from the night before for a more practical outfit, jeans, a polo shirt, and a handgun holstered at his hip. As Nina got out of the car, Milo walked over to greet her.
âLove what youâve done with the place.â She said. âThe tents and the soldiers were exactly what was missing here.â
âOh, itâll all come together once we get the power back on,â Milo said. âEverything shut off in the night. Weâve got some backup generators, but itâs still a pain in the ass.â
âCalhoun shut off the power?â Dom asked as he and I got out of the car.
âIf not him, then somebody. We sent some folks out to Rankin Mills to see if they canât get it up and running again. With any luck we should be back to normal shortly. In the meanwhile, Iâve been helping Gretchen bring some stuff up from the archives. Sheâs in the RV, looking through what Iâve found so far. But I could use a hand going through the rest of it.â
âYou got it, boss man,â Nina said. âI saw some interesting shit by the south corner that might be useful.â
âWhat about us?â I asked, âNina said something about us helping with the evacuation.
âYes, actually I had the perfect job in mind for you two,â Durand said. âWe could use some friendly faces going in to the towns to make the evacuation go a bit smoother. Natalyaâs been a huge help here in Puriysk. Weâre hoping to get the same results in the other towns.â
âSonya in Thompson Falls would know to trust Dom,â I said. âIf you can get her on your side, she can probably get most of the town to come along. As for Bakersfield, my Mom lives there. I could help with that team, if you wanted.â
Durand raised an eyebrow.
âYou donât say?â He asked, âYou should tell that to Kallas, then. Heâs down by the town hall, getting the Bakersfield and Thompson Falls teams organized.â
âGot it,â I said before giving Nina a parting nod, âI guess Iâll see you when we get backâ
âSee you when you get back,â Nina replied and gave us a parting weave before turning and heading over to the Deputyâs Office with Durand. As she left, Dom and I started down the street toward a group of trucks and tents near the Puriysk town hall.
It was time to get to work.
***
I was on the first of the Bakersfield trucks as they left and as we drove through the old familiar forest, I watched it with a conflicted nostalgia. On one hand, these misty woods were all Iâd ever really known and I realized that thereâd be a part of me that would miss them when at last I left them behind forever. Of course, knowing what I knew now about our situation ensured I wouldnât miss them too much, but Iâd miss them all the same.
My Mom always used to have a fondness for obscure words. Sheâd been an English teacher once upon a time, so I guess that made sense for her.
âLanguage is so fascinating,â sheâd said to me once. âYou know, thereâs some beautiful words out there for such complex emotions.â
Looking out the window, a few of those words came to mind.
Like: âRĂźckkehrunruhe.â
âItâs this feeling of returning home after a trip, only to find it fading into your memory to the point where it no longer feels real⌠can you imagine.â Sheâd laughed sadly at that.
âYou know, sometimes I canât help but feel that way about the old world. I shouldnât idealize it. It wasnât perfect, but⌠I wouldâve loved for you to see it.â
And I had seen it, hadnât I? What would she say when I told her? What would she say when I came to Bakersfield with a convoy of trucks, come to bring her and everyone else home again. Out of this beautiful, cruel world and back into the one sheâd missed for so long. I could already imagine the way that her eyes would light up⌠I could already imagine her smile. Itâd been a few weeks since Iâd seen her⌠I hoped she was doing okay.
âHereâs another one I like⌠Occhiolism. It describes the awareness of the smallness of your own perspective. Do you understand what Iâm talking about? That⌠melancholy, you sometimes feel when you reflect on your own experiences despite knowing how much more is out there. Or⌠am I thinking of Onism? No⌠no⌠although they are similar. Do you know what Onism means? It describes the frustration of having to live in just one body, that can only be in one place at a time.â
âMom, what are you talking about?â Iâd asked her. Sheâd looked up from the book sheâd been reading and smiled sheepishly at me.
âSorry⌠I guess I just feel like sharing these with someone. They are interesting, donât you think?â
âYeah, I guess they are,â I said, mostly just to be polite. Sheâd paused for a moment, almost closing the book.
âYou can keep going!â I said, âCome on, tell me another one.â
âHow about âNodus Tollensâ. Itâs the realization that the plot of your life doesnât make sense to you anymore. You know I sort of like the wording there. Speaking of life like a story to be toldâŚâ
The truck turned and I recognized the landmark weâd just passed. An old, crumbling house that had been abandoned for as long as I could remember. Bakersfield was just ahead. I perked up a little bit and looked over at the driver beside me.
âItâs just up ahead,â I said. âDo you need directions to the house?â
âYes please,â The Driver said.
âRight, once you see the Whitman farm on the right you know youâre in Bakersfield. From there, you just keep on the main road until you reach the downtown area. Thereâs sort of a suburb right past that andâŚâ
My voice died in my throat as I caught a glimpse of what was in the mist ahead of us. I could see the familiar fence of the Whitman farm just up ahead but something seemed wrong.
âIs the mist always this heavy?â The driver asked.
âNot hereâŚâ I replied. Iâd never seen it this heavy in any of the towns before. We could barely see a few feet in front of us. I tried to get a better look at the fence. Tried to understand why it looked so wrong. It almost seemed to be tangled in vines or branches or something.
And as we drove closer to the storefront of the farm itself, I noticed the same vines growing over the store. The sign that read âWHITMAN FARMSâ was almost unreadable behind the branches. The driver stared at it with narrowed eyes before reaching for his radio.
âTransports 2 to 10, status yellow. Keep on alert.â
The farm faded away into the distance and as it did, I looked ahead anxiously. I could see the downtown area just up ahead, and even from a distance I could see the vines growing over the buildings. I stared with wide, uneasy eyes as we got closer⌠and when I saw the people on the street, I felt a sinking horror burrowing through my chest.
Most of them seemed as if theyâd either been trying to run or had been pulled to the ground⌠and honestly, I only barely still recognized them as people. I could see clothes and sometimes jewelry through the vines⌠but the skin beneath it all looked no different than the wood that bound them.
I looked over at the driver beside me to see an uneasy dread written all over his face. He looked at the silent figures we passed with the same horror I knew that I felt⌠and I knew that just like me, he had no answers.
âWhat the hell is thisâŚâ He said under his breath.
âI donât know., Came my honest reply.
Thick branches seemed to burst from the concrete sidewalks, ensnaring those whoâd once passed them by. I could see an upended baby stroller on the street, one of the branches burrowing into it, and felt my heart seize in my chest. As I drank in the eerie silence of Bakersfield, the knowing gnawed at the back of my mindâŚ
âDrive faster,â I said. âThird turn up ahead. Take a right.â
âMaâamâŚ?â The Driver asked.
âNow!â I said.
He looked at me, silently understanding what I was asking and why. The truck sped up, blowing past stop signs and darkened stoplights. I donât suppose that it mattered. There were no other vehicles on the road. He only slowed a little for the turn and even then, he took it fast.
âTake Lake Street, itâs the fifth house,â I said and waited for him to take the turn. As we drove, I kept glancing at every house we passed. I could see branches jutting in through their windows⌠and darkness within.
No⌠no, no, noâŚ
The truck took its final turn. I could see Momâs house up ahead.
âThat one!â I said, pointing it out.
He didnât even have time to stop fully before Iâd thrown open the door and was getting out.
Momâs house was no different than the others. The vines had grown along the sides, even slipping under the pastel siding in some places and prying it off the outside walls. Thick branches jutted out of the earth and had through some of the walls.
âNoâŚâ I said under my breath. Before I even knew what I was doing, I was running. I unlocked her door and tore inside, looking around frantically.
âMom?â I called, but there was no answer. Only mist and silence.
âMOM?!â I called again, running down the hall toward her bedroom. I didnât see her there either⌠but I did see her bathroom door hanging open, and I could see the ivy, growing out from the door and crawling along her carpet. On legs like jelly, I started toward the door. With one trembling hand, I pushed it open, knowing what Iâd see inside but praying to whatever God might listen that it wouldnât be there.
The branches that entombed her didnât cover her face. Her skin was gray, almost blending in to the wood itself⌠but I still recognized her. Her eyes were half open, as was her mouth, and the moment I saw her, I knew she was past saving.
âNo⌠no⌠noâŚâ The word tumbled meaninglessly out of my mouth as my legs gave out from under me, sending me crashing down to the ground. The tears began to fall and soon, the only thing I could do was scream.
***
âHereâs an eerie one⌠Kenopsia. It describes the forlorn, unsettling atmosphere of a place that is usually filled with people, but is now quiet and abandoned.â
Momâs voice echoed in my mind as I sat in the tent back in Puriysk.
The past few hours seemed like a blur. I could remember the trip to Bakersfield and the sight of her body. But everything after felt like a half remembered dream.
I hadnât been able to stay in Bakersfield⌠there wasnât any point to my staying and I could barely even remember a single detail about the drive back. It all just happened around me, as the reality of what Iâd seen untethered me from the present moment and cast me adrift and mindless in time. My hands were still shaking a little and though my breathing had calmed down, my heart certainly hadnât. I could still feel it racing.
âRubatosis⌠the uncomfortable sensation of being aware of ones own heartbeat. Huh⌠you know, I always wondered if everyone else was uncomfortable being aware of that. Feeling your own pulse and stuff like that⌠do you ever get that, Cammy?â
âCam?â
I looked up to see Nina standing at the door to the tent. Her expression was grave and her voice, heavier than usual.
âHowâre you holding up?â She asked.
I didnât answer. I didnât need to. She approached my table and sat down beside me.
âI brought you a drink. Wasnât sure if youâd want something hard or not, so I technically got two, butâŚâ
I saw the beer in her hand and quietly took it although I didnât immediately take a drink. Nina watched me for a moment, before sighing and opening her own drink. And for a few minutes, thatâs just how we stayed.
âKallas said he found some holdouts after you left,â Nina said after a while. âHe got back with them about an hour ago.â
I looked over at her.
âHow many?â I asked. Nina hesitated before answering.
âTwenty⌠maybe thirty.â
I felt the weight in my chest drop even lower. Twenty or thirty⌠thereâd been hundreds of people in Bakersfield, and weâd only brought back twenty or thirty.
I looked back at Nina. She was staring down at her drink, and I knew that there was more.
âWhat about Thompson FallsâŚ?â I asked, âOr Rankin?â
âWeâre meeting with Milo to go through it in ten minutes,â She said. âYou donât need to go but⌠I think you should be there. Better you know sooner rather than later.â
âHow bad is it?â I asked softly.
âBad,â Nina replied, before taking a sip of her drink. âItâs the same story in Rankin and Thompson⌠weâve got survivors. But not a lot.â
âSonyaâŚ?â I asked.
âAlive, thankfully,â Nina said. âAlong with most of the people who were inside the Roadhouse.â
I closed my eyes and exhaled, feeling that weight lift just a little bit. At least there was some good news.
I finally took a sip of my drink. Nina seemed to want to say more but stopped herself. I couldnât really blame her. She probably knew just how little there was to say here.
âYou said you lost your mother, right?â I asked. âHow did youâŚâ
âHow did I handle it?â She finished. I nodded.
Nina seemed to think over her answer for a few minutes before finally speaking.
âIâve got two different ways to answer that question,â She said. âFor the grief⌠you just learn to live with it. You make your peace, you carry them in your heart and you thank God for the good memories. I know it doesnât sound like it helps much, but really thatâs the only thing I can offer you. As for the anger⌠the only fix for that is retribution, edgy as it sounds. And for someone like Calhoun, the only thing you can do is take an eye for an eye.â
âIs that what you did?â I asked.
She nodded.
âI know a lot of people whoâll tell you that revenge isnât the answer. But personally, I think theyâre asking the wrong question. The vampires that killed my Mom were⌠they were monsters. A couple of assholes with delusions of grandeur were convinced that they could do whatever they wanted, and nobody would stop them. And for the longest time, they were right. Hunting them down and killing them⌠it didnât fix anything. It didnât undo what theyâd done. But it sure as hell made me feel better. Not because I got revenge, but because I got the personal satisfaction of making sure that karma caught right the fuck up to them. And I sleep a hell of a lot better at night, knowing thatâs what I did.
I nodded in agreement.
âI think I would too,â I said.
***
âWhat I want to know is whyâŚâ Durand said as we sat around the table. He almost looked like a completely different man from when Iâd seen him that morning. He drummed his fingers on his desk and kept smoothing down his hair.
Dom sat beside me, a little quieter than usual with his arms tightly folded to his chest. He stared down at the table but didnât seem to actually be looking at anything.
âRankin Mills, Bakersfield, Thompson Falls⌠why? They were his own goddamn people!â
âNot for much longer,â Dr. Di Cesare said. She was the only one at the table without a grim expression. âCalhoun was most certainly aware of our operations. Provided he had no other immediate means to disrupt them, then this course of action may have simply been the most effective.â
âThe most effective?â Nina asked incredulously, âWeâve only been working this job for a few days, and the first thing this asshole did was throw all of his toys out of the fucking pram. âIf I canât have them, no one can.ââ
âWe were lucky to get about fifty people out of Thompson Falls!â Dom added, âFifty, out of five hundred!â
âWe only got four out of Rankin MillsâŚâ Kallas said. âThe rest were tangled in those branches⌠Iâve never seen anything like it.â
âConsidering the unprecedented control Calhoun demonstrates here, unprecedented occurrences should be expected,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âBut I must admit, it is fascinating. Given the chance, Iâd like to visit the afflicted areas for further study. Although I do also appreciate the samples your team provided, Mr. Kallas. Much obliged.â
Kallas ignored her comment before looking at Milo.
âSo where exactly do we go from here?â He asked, âAfter today, thereâs not a hell of a lot left to rescue!â
âIâm aware,â Durand said. âBut letâs try and stay focused on the ones we did get out. We should keep a close eye on the towns too just in case. There may be some stragglers we missed.â
He looked up at Dom next.
âCorrect me if Iâm wrong but by taking out Rankin Mills and Bakersfield, heâs shot himself in the foot too, hasnât he?â He asked, âIâd imagine that Parsons would be without food and power too, now.â
âNot exactly,â Dom said. âParsons has its own power plant. Itâs not exactly as powerful as the one in Rankin Mills, but from what Iâve heard it should be enough to keep the town running. As for the food supply, that might be a little dicier. But Iâm willing to bet that Calhoun has a fix for that too.â
âGiven his implied ability to come and go as he pleases from this Pocket Reality, as well as the lack of a sufficient explanation for where his fuel and ammunition comes from, itâs reasonable to assume that outside supply lines do exist,â Dr. Di Cesare said, before pausing to think. She checked something in her notebook before looking back at us. âA theoryâŚâ She said, âI agree that leaping to such a drastic response so early in our operation does seem unusual. What if this move wasnât petty, but practical?â
âPractical?â Durand asked.
âAs of now, Calhoun has brought five towns into the pocket over at minimum a fifty year period. Why stagger them so far apart?â
âWell Iâd imagine itâd take a hell of a lot of juice to pull off something like this,â Durand said and Dr. Di Cesare shook her head.
âCorrect, but not relevant. Power is not the issue. Timing is. Calhoun must have been aware that someone could come for him. Hence, he moved slowly. Avoided drawing attention. He was only discovered by accident. Had that accident not occurred, he could have continued to operate for decades more, but I digress. Us here right now may stand as a realization of one of his greatest fears. Discovery. Opposition. Now that he has seen his fears realized. It may explain his drastic actions. Perhaps this is not an act of pettiness⌠but of sacrifice.â
The rest of us at the table were quiet. I was the one who broke the silence.
âSacrifice to what?â I asked.
âCountless Gods dwell within the Midnight Grove, each offering various gifts in exchange for souls. With enough souls to trade, Calhoun could very quickly evolve from a problem into a genuine threat. Running the numbers⌠it makes too much sense. The towns technically remain under his control. The people may be gone, but the people can be replaced. And having obtained the power to drive us off, what reason would Calhoun have to continue to develop this place at its previous steady pace? He could⌠no, he would need to push for a more aggressive expansion to compensate for his losses. And with the assurance that we and likely others could do little to stop him, I see no incentive for him not to do exactly that.â
âSo what, this is some kind of power move?â Nina asked, âNow that he sees what heâs up against, heâs trying to bulk up?â
âIt would be the sensible thing to do,â Dr. Di Cesare said. For the first time since Iâd met her, she looked genuinely troubled.
I saw Durandâs brow crease.
âIf thatâs what heâs up to, then we need to deal with him sooner or later. Gretchen, Kallas we need to go over the estimated death toll. Calhoun just killed a whole hell of a lot of people. I wanna have some idea of what he might be trying to buy.â
âNo need. It would be impossible to predict,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âThe terms of whatever agreement he may have entered into would be known only to him, the Eldest and whatever entity heâs looking to barter with⌠and given what heâs already done, time may be against us. Immediate action needs to be taken.â
She reached into her coat again to take out the revolver. She set it on the table again.
âWe have a means of execution. All we need now is opportunity.â
âHow many bullets are in that gun?â Nina asked.
âThe cylinder holds six, we have five remaining,â Dr. Di Cesare replied. âGiven time and resources, I could make more, but-â
âYou just said that we donât have time,â Nina replied. âWe only need one to kill him. Five should more than do the trick.â
Dr. Di Cesare nodded.
âAgreed,â She said.
âSo if we can kill the fucker, letâs just do it and get it over with,â Dom said. He looked over at me. I gave no response, I just looked down at the gun and remembered what it had done to the Nightwalker the other night.
I wouldâve loved to see it do the same to Calhoun.
Durand was also staring down at the gun, and after a moment gave a single, tense nod.
âAlright,â He finally said. âKallas, I need you to continue overseeing the evacuation. Double time it, make sure everyone gets out. Do whatever you have to. And Valentine, Iâm giving you the official go ahead to find Ben Calhoun and deal with him by any means necessary.â
âItâd be my genuine pleasure,â Valentine said.
âGood. Then letâs get-â
A klaxon alarm sounded from somewhere outside, cutting Durand off.
âProximity warning,â Kallas said. âSomethingâs coming.â
âNightwalkers?â Dom asked.
âBut itâs not dark yet!â I replied.
Durand just pushed past us, stepping out of the tent with the rest of us right behind him. The sky was still bright, but we could see mist flowing in past the empty buildings and the FRBâs tents and inside the mist, we could see the shadows of what was coming.
2023.03.22 20:10 PauloMr First naval battle I won as a Solo slooper
This will be short but I'd like to write it down at least.
It happened a month ago, I had been playing for a couple weeks beforehand and was doing the warsmith of the flame commendation (really like that hull). An Ashen lord had spawned near me, it was in discovery isle if memory serves, and I headed there to get the skull. As I parked my ship behind the rocks and landed to start the event I notice another sloop coming for me. Reaper lvl 1. As I had heard mixed things (and by now have had mixed experiences) about reaper crews my first instinct was diplomacy. Pulled out the megaphone and started shouting: "Hey, hey. Can we talk?"-at that point I just wanted the skull and was contempt with giving up the rest of the loot if we did the lord together and I could keep that one item. No response, they just kept barreling to my ship and opened fire. It went down pretty quick. I think I still tried to give a bit of chase to them but can't remember if they killed me more or I gave up.
I spawn somewhere else. The red tornado was still close so I think to myself - "Welp, that's pretty close, I got nothing on me, I could use the pvp experience and I'm kind of salty". So lower the sail. Catch crosswind and directly to discovery isle. Had a broad reach from starboard, and as I approach I see my attackers' ship parked next to the beach. My intention was to park in their blindspot and hammer them from there, but I was getting to 200m from target they show their sails and I know mine stay down too. Load up a fire ball into the canon and I find some amusement in one of my opponents desperately repeating what I had shouted at them minutes early. For I moment I think to stop, but I know if they didn't listen once they wouldn't again. To fireball goes off at pretty much point blank range, dead centre on their deck and lits up a nice bonfire. Immediately steer the ruther full right to turn around for another broadside. The duo seems to take their time to put out the fire but we both sail into open waters, in retrospective for the best as the waves seem to be throwing off their aim. I try to fire only with a clear line of fire. This back forth goes and I'm taking a few more hits than I land, luckily they miss their cursed balls. I take opportunities when they are further away to repair the ship as best I can. Luckily for me, when I come back for the next salvo they are in a perfect position, very close, and slightly below me. I fire a shot at the gunner and think I see a ghost before I immediately after shoot at the helmsman. There's no time to confirm my kills as last I went below deck I was centimetres from sinking, now it was millimetres. Repair the ship as fast as possible and thankfully managed to get the water out in time. When I get back up, the enemy sloop is nowhere to be seen. A few moments later I see a few barrels and assume my victory. Frankly I had no time to savour it as the ashen lord was still standing. I completed it, watching the horizon the entire time for my assailants or some new ones. Thankfully no one came and I managed to complete the event after a few minutes. I'm not sure if the game was trying to reward me or mock me afterwards as it spawned an aggro'd skelly sloop next to me right as I was putting my ship in position to collect the prize. That was the first skelly downed with the skull of that session, and when I finished it the Warsmith of the Flame was complete.
I like to believe they thought I was smurfing and decided not to bother me further when in truth I hadn't put even 40 hours into the game yet.
submitted by PauloMr to Seaofthieves [link] [comments]
It happened a month ago, I had been playing for a couple weeks beforehand and was doing the warsmith of the flame commendation (really like that hull). An Ashen lord had spawned near me, it was in discovery isle if memory serves, and I headed there to get the skull. As I parked my ship behind the rocks and landed to start the event I notice another sloop coming for me. Reaper lvl 1. As I had heard mixed things (and by now have had mixed experiences) about reaper crews my first instinct was diplomacy. Pulled out the megaphone and started shouting: "Hey, hey. Can we talk?"-at that point I just wanted the skull and was contempt with giving up the rest of the loot if we did the lord together and I could keep that one item. No response, they just kept barreling to my ship and opened fire. It went down pretty quick. I think I still tried to give a bit of chase to them but can't remember if they killed me more or I gave up.
I spawn somewhere else. The red tornado was still close so I think to myself - "Welp, that's pretty close, I got nothing on me, I could use the pvp experience and I'm kind of salty". So lower the sail. Catch crosswind and directly to discovery isle. Had a broad reach from starboard, and as I approach I see my attackers' ship parked next to the beach. My intention was to park in their blindspot and hammer them from there, but I was getting to 200m from target they show their sails and I know mine stay down too. Load up a fire ball into the canon and I find some amusement in one of my opponents desperately repeating what I had shouted at them minutes early. For I moment I think to stop, but I know if they didn't listen once they wouldn't again. To fireball goes off at pretty much point blank range, dead centre on their deck and lits up a nice bonfire. Immediately steer the ruther full right to turn around for another broadside. The duo seems to take their time to put out the fire but we both sail into open waters, in retrospective for the best as the waves seem to be throwing off their aim. I try to fire only with a clear line of fire. This back forth goes and I'm taking a few more hits than I land, luckily they miss their cursed balls. I take opportunities when they are further away to repair the ship as best I can. Luckily for me, when I come back for the next salvo they are in a perfect position, very close, and slightly below me. I fire a shot at the gunner and think I see a ghost before I immediately after shoot at the helmsman. There's no time to confirm my kills as last I went below deck I was centimetres from sinking, now it was millimetres. Repair the ship as fast as possible and thankfully managed to get the water out in time. When I get back up, the enemy sloop is nowhere to be seen. A few moments later I see a few barrels and assume my victory. Frankly I had no time to savour it as the ashen lord was still standing. I completed it, watching the horizon the entire time for my assailants or some new ones. Thankfully no one came and I managed to complete the event after a few minutes. I'm not sure if the game was trying to reward me or mock me afterwards as it spawned an aggro'd skelly sloop next to me right as I was putting my ship in position to collect the prize. That was the first skelly downed with the skull of that session, and when I finished it the Warsmith of the Flame was complete.
I like to believe they thought I was smurfing and decided not to bother me further when in truth I hadn't put even 40 hours into the game yet.
2023.03.22 20:10 HeadOfSpectre Faerie Tale - Seventh Entry
First Entry
Second Entry
Third Entry
Fourth Entry â
Fifth Entry
Sixth Entry
Journal of Camille Lambert - April 13th
As we drove back to Puriysk in the morning I watched the landscape pass me by with a quiet melancholy and promised myself that Iâd see it all again soon.
Dom sat in the back seat of the SUV beside me while Nina drove, contentedly munching on a fresh bag of sunflower seeds as the ruined church loomed ahead of us.
âSo the first order of business is evacuation, right?â Dom asked, âIn which case, Iâve gotta ask, how exactly do we factor into this?â
âRight now, Miloâs thinking you two can help with the Thompson Falls evacuation,â Nina said. âItâd probably be helpful to have a couple of locals there to make sure people know weâre actually here to help, as opposed to just another group of jackoffs bringing in a fresh batch of misery. Although it sounds like Iâm gonna be stuck in Puriysk for the time being,â
âYouâre not coming with?â I asked.
âNah, Milo wants me around in case Calhoun tries anything. Iâll probably be with Gretchen in the archive, looking for anything useful. Fun, fun, fun.â
âSo youâre with Dr. Di Cesare? I asked, âShould be interesting at least.â I said.
âI could be worse off,â Nina admitted, âItâs hard to get a read on her, but if Milo trusts her, so do I. Besides from what Iâve heard, sheâs one of the most powerful witches out there, which is probably saying a lot considering the fact that sheâs a Di Cesare. Just about all of them are powerful witches, and theyâve got some serious pull among vampires.â
âSheâs a vampire?â I asked. I thought back to the way sheâd been out and nothing about her stood out as anything particularly âvampire-ishâ. She was a little pale, I guess. But so was Dom and I was pretty sure he wasnât a vampire!
âThe whole Di Cesare family is,â Nina said before noticing my obvious concern, âDonât worry about it, most vampires are pretty safe. Miloâs probably got some volunteers lined up to keep her supplied with fresh blood as she needs it. Plus, the Di Cesareâs are generally pretty peaceful. I wouldnât pick a fight with them, but they donât cause that much trouble unprovoked.â
âDo you know a lot of the Di Cesareâs?â I asked. Nina just shrugged.
âI met a couple of her sisters on a trip to Greece last year through some mutual friends but that was more of a social thing,â She said. âFrom what I heard, Gretchen doesnât really get out much. Iâm a little surprised that Milo was able to bring her in on this, but then again Milo could probably sell vodka at an AA meeting.â
Somehow I didnât doubt that.
âSo how long do you think the evacuation might take?â Dom asked, âHow long until we shift focus to Calhoun?â
âShouldnât be that long,â Nina said. âMilo wants this run pretty smoothly. A few days, give or take. The hard part is gonna be what to do with everyone once theyâre on the outside. Not sure how Miloâs gonna manage, but thatâs above my pay grade. Iâm just gonna assume heâs figured something out. Donât worry. If everything goes to plan, weâll be done with this in the next week or so and you two can go back to your hotel room for âcoffeeâ.â
Both Dom and I looked over at her.
âThin walls,â She replied, not even taking her eyes off the road. I caught Dom turning bright red before he looked out the window, trying to end this conversation as quickly as possible.
The church was just ahead of us, although now I barely recognized it. Several large metal poles had been put up, bearing familiar sigils on them. I noticed white spray paint in the grass, marking a larger ritual circle. Several tents had been set up in an area outside of the ritual circle and I could see people near them. The people from Puriysk, most likely. There were even more tents that sat empty nearby, no doubt waiting for the refugees from the other towns.
I could see smoke rising from the collapsed roof of the church itself. Our bonfire from the other night still seemed to be going strong. That was probably a good thing. I could see other trucks parked outside the church, with other tents surrounded by soldiers. This looked to be some kind of staging area, although I never got a good look at the finer details of it.
Nina drove past the metal poles, before following a worn path in the road leading to a second set of poles. A doorway back to Puriysk.
As we drew closer to the second set of poles, I noticed a thin mist swirling around the car. I didnât realize I was holding my breath as we passed them until weâd actually passed them and I was greeted by the familiar dense forest Iâd always known.
I looked back at the church, which was quickly swallowed up by the mist again, and relaxed back into my seat as we returned to Puriysk.
Weâd only been gone for a day or so, but Puriysk already looked different than it had when weâd left. Tents had been set up along the main drag and I could see soldiers along the street, all of them relatively heavily armed. Some of them had their faces visible, others wore those netlike veils weâd seen the other night, giving them a more inhuman appearance.
âWhatâs the point of the nets?â Dom asked, watching as we passed a group of soldiers.
âIt breaks up the silhouette or something,â Nina said. âPlus it hides the face. We went over it during the training. Why, you want one?â
âJust wondering,â Dom said, âNever seen anything like this before.â
âItâs more of a special forces type thing,â Nina said, âTechnically the FRB doesnât really do spec ops and shit like that. But I know weâve got a number of ex military types with us. Milo said something about bringing them in.â
âHow many do you think theyâve got?â I asked.
âA couple hundred boots on the ground, I think. Probably fifty or so more just working to support them. Itâs not exactly a massive operation, but itâs big by our standards.â
Dom just nodded passively, his attention still focused on the passing soldiers.
Nina stopped the car in front of a large white RV parked near the ruins of the Deputyâs Office. I could see Durand standing out front of it. Heâd traded his nice suit from the night before for a more practical outfit, jeans, a polo shirt, and a handgun holstered at his hip. As Nina got out of the car, Milo walked over to greet her.
âLove what youâve done with the place.â She said. âThe tents and the soldiers were exactly what was missing here.â
âOh, itâll all come together once we get the power back on,â Milo said. âEverything shut off in the night. Weâve got some backup generators, but itâs still a pain in the ass.â
âCalhoun shut off the power?â Dom asked as he and I got out of the car.
âIf not him, then somebody. We sent some folks out to Rankin Mills to see if they canât get it up and running again. With any luck we should be back to normal shortly. In the meanwhile, Iâve been helping Gretchen bring some stuff up from the archives. Sheâs in the RV, looking through what Iâve found so far. But I could use a hand going through the rest of it.â
âYou got it, boss man,â Nina said. âI saw some interesting shit by the south corner that might be useful.â
âWhat about us?â I asked, âNina said something about us helping with the evacuation.
âYes, actually I had the perfect job in mind for you two,â Durand said. âWe could use some friendly faces going in to the towns to make the evacuation go a bit smoother. Natalyaâs been a huge help here in Puriysk. Weâre hoping to get the same results in the other towns.â
âSonya in Thompson Falls would know to trust Dom,â I said. âIf you can get her on your side, she can probably get most of the town to come along. As for Bakersfield, my Mom lives there. I could help with that team, if you wanted.â
Durand raised an eyebrow.
âYou donât say?â He asked, âYou should tell that to Kallas, then. Heâs down by the town hall, getting the Bakersfield and Thompson Falls teams organized.â
âGot it,â I said before giving Nina a parting nod, âI guess Iâll see you when we get backâ
âSee you when you get back,â Nina replied and gave us a parting weave before turning and heading over to the Deputyâs Office with Durand. As she left, Dom and I started down the street toward a group of trucks and tents near the Puriysk town hall.
It was time to get to work.
***
I was on the first of the Bakersfield trucks as they left and as we drove through the old familiar forest, I watched it with a conflicted nostalgia. On one hand, these misty woods were all Iâd ever really known and I realized that thereâd be a part of me that would miss them when at last I left them behind forever. Of course, knowing what I knew now about our situation ensured I wouldnât miss them too much, but Iâd miss them all the same.
My Mom always used to have a fondness for obscure words. Sheâd been an English teacher once upon a time, so I guess that made sense for her.
âLanguage is so fascinating,â sheâd said to me once. âYou know, thereâs some beautiful words out there for such complex emotions.â
Looking out the window, a few of those words came to mind.
Like: âRĂźckkehrunruhe.â
âItâs this feeling of returning home after a trip, only to find it fading into your memory to the point where it no longer feels real⌠can you imagine.â Sheâd laughed sadly at that.
âYou know, sometimes I canât help but feel that way about the old world. I shouldnât idealize it. It wasnât perfect, but⌠I wouldâve loved for you to see it.â
And I had seen it, hadnât I? What would she say when I told her? What would she say when I came to Bakersfield with a convoy of trucks, come to bring her and everyone else home again. Out of this beautiful, cruel world and back into the one sheâd missed for so long. I could already imagine the way that her eyes would light up⌠I could already imagine her smile. Itâd been a few weeks since Iâd seen her⌠I hoped she was doing okay.
âHereâs another one I like⌠Occhiolism. It describes the awareness of the smallness of your own perspective. Do you understand what Iâm talking about? That⌠melancholy, you sometimes feel when you reflect on your own experiences despite knowing how much more is out there. Or⌠am I thinking of Onism? No⌠no⌠although they are similar. Do you know what Onism means? It describes the frustration of having to live in just one body, that can only be in one place at a time.â
âMom, what are you talking about?â Iâd asked her. Sheâd looked up from the book sheâd been reading and smiled sheepishly at me.
âSorry⌠I guess I just feel like sharing these with someone. They are interesting, donât you think?â
âYeah, I guess they are,â I said, mostly just to be polite. Sheâd paused for a moment, almost closing the book.
âYou can keep going!â I said, âCome on, tell me another one.â
âHow about âNodus Tollensâ. Itâs the realization that the plot of your life doesnât make sense to you anymore. You know I sort of like the wording there. Speaking of life like a story to be toldâŚâ
The truck turned and I recognized the landmark weâd just passed. An old, crumbling house that had been abandoned for as long as I could remember. Bakersfield was just ahead. I perked up a little bit and looked over at the driver beside me.
âItâs just up ahead,â I said. âDo you need directions to the house?â
âYes please,â The Driver said.
âRight, once you see the Whitman farm on the right you know youâre in Bakersfield. From there, you just keep on the main road until you reach the downtown area. Thereâs sort of a suburb right past that andâŚâ
My voice died in my throat as I caught a glimpse of what was in the mist ahead of us. I could see the familiar fence of the Whitman farm just up ahead but something seemed wrong.
âIs the mist always this heavy?â The driver asked.
âNot hereâŚâ I replied. Iâd never seen it this heavy in any of the towns before. We could barely see a few feet in front of us. I tried to get a better look at the fence. Tried to understand why it looked so wrong. It almost seemed to be tangled in vines or branches or something.
And as we drove closer to the storefront of the farm itself, I noticed the same vines growing over the store. The sign that read âWHITMAN FARMSâ was almost unreadable behind the branches. The driver stared at it with narrowed eyes before reaching for his radio.
âTransports 2 to 10, status yellow. Keep on alert.â
The farm faded away into the distance and as it did, I looked ahead anxiously. I could see the downtown area just up ahead, and even from a distance I could see the vines growing over the buildings. I stared with wide, uneasy eyes as we got closer⌠and when I saw the people on the street, I felt a sinking horror burrowing through my chest.
Most of them seemed as if theyâd either been trying to run or had been pulled to the ground⌠and honestly, I only barely still recognized them as people. I could see clothes and sometimes jewelry through the vines⌠but the skin beneath it all looked no different than the wood that bound them.
I looked over at the driver beside me to see an uneasy dread written all over his face. He looked at the silent figures we passed with the same horror I knew that I felt⌠and I knew that just like me, he had no answers.
âWhat the hell is thisâŚâ He said under his breath.
âI donât know., Came my honest reply.
Thick branches seemed to burst from the concrete sidewalks, ensnaring those whoâd once passed them by. I could see an upended baby stroller on the street, one of the branches burrowing into it, and felt my heart seize in my chest. As I drank in the eerie silence of Bakersfield, the knowing gnawed at the back of my mindâŚ
âDrive faster,â I said. âThird turn up ahead. Take a right.â
âMaâamâŚ?â The Driver asked.
âNow!â I said.
He looked at me, silently understanding what I was asking and why. The truck sped up, blowing past stop signs and darkened stoplights. I donât suppose that it mattered. There were no other vehicles on the road. He only slowed a little for the turn and even then, he took it fast.
âTake Lake Street, itâs the fifth house,â I said and waited for him to take the turn. As we drove, I kept glancing at every house we passed. I could see branches jutting in through their windows⌠and darkness within.
No⌠no, no, noâŚ
The truck took its final turn. I could see Momâs house up ahead.
âThat one!â I said, pointing it out.
He didnât even have time to stop fully before Iâd thrown open the door and was getting out.
Momâs house was no different than the others. The vines had grown along the sides, even slipping under the pastel siding in some places and prying it off the outside walls. Thick branches jutted out of the earth and had through some of the walls.
âNoâŚâ I said under my breath. Before I even knew what I was doing, I was running. I unlocked her door and tore inside, looking around frantically.
âMom?â I called, but there was no answer. Only mist and silence.
âMOM?!â I called again, running down the hall toward her bedroom. I didnât see her there either⌠but I did see her bathroom door hanging open, and I could see the ivy, growing out from the door and crawling along her carpet. On legs like jelly, I started toward the door. With one trembling hand, I pushed it open, knowing what Iâd see inside but praying to whatever God might listen that it wouldnât be there.
The branches that entombed her didnât cover her face. Her skin was gray, almost blending in to the wood itself⌠but I still recognized her. Her eyes were half open, as was her mouth, and the moment I saw her, I knew she was past saving.
âNo⌠no⌠noâŚâ The word tumbled meaninglessly out of my mouth as my legs gave out from under me, sending me crashing down to the ground. The tears began to fall and soon, the only thing I could do was scream.
***
âHereâs an eerie one⌠Kenopsia. It describes the forlorn, unsettling atmosphere of a place that is usually filled with people, but is now quiet and abandoned.â
Momâs voice echoed in my mind as I sat in the tent back in Puriysk.
The past few hours seemed like a blur. I could remember the trip to Bakersfield and the sight of her body. But everything after felt like a half remembered dream.
I hadnât been able to stay in Bakersfield⌠there wasnât any point to my staying and I could barely even remember a single detail about the drive back. It all just happened around me, as the reality of what Iâd seen untethered me from the present moment and cast me adrift and mindless in time. My hands were still shaking a little and though my breathing had calmed down, my heart certainly hadnât. I could still feel it racing.
âRubatosis⌠the uncomfortable sensation of being aware of ones own heartbeat. Huh⌠you know, I always wondered if everyone else was uncomfortable being aware of that. Feeling your own pulse and stuff like that⌠do you ever get that, Cammy?â
âCam?â
I looked up to see Nina standing at the door to the tent. Her expression was grave and her voice, heavier than usual.
âHowâre you holding up?â She asked.
I didnât answer. I didnât need to. She approached my table and sat down beside me.
âI brought you a drink. Wasnât sure if youâd want something hard or not, so I technically got two, butâŚâ
I saw the beer in her hand and quietly took it although I didnât immediately take a drink. Nina watched me for a moment, before sighing and opening her own drink. And for a few minutes, thatâs just how we stayed.
âKallas said he found some holdouts after you left,â Nina said after a while. âHe got back with them about an hour ago.â
I looked over at her.
âHow many?â I asked. Nina hesitated before answering.
âTwenty⌠maybe thirty.â
I felt the weight in my chest drop even lower. Twenty or thirty⌠thereâd been hundreds of people in Bakersfield, and weâd only brought back twenty or thirty.
I looked back at Nina. She was staring down at her drink, and I knew that there was more.
âWhat about Thompson FallsâŚ?â I asked, âOr Rankin?â
âWeâre meeting with Milo to go through it in ten minutes,â She said. âYou donât need to go but⌠I think you should be there. Better you know sooner rather than later.â
âHow bad is it?â I asked softly.
âBad,â Nina replied, before taking a sip of her drink. âItâs the same story in Rankin and Thompson⌠weâve got survivors. But not a lot.â
âSonyaâŚ?â I asked.
âAlive, thankfully,â Nina said. âAlong with most of the people who were inside the Roadhouse.â
I closed my eyes and exhaled, feeling that weight lift just a little bit. At least there was some good news.
I finally took a sip of my drink. Nina seemed to want to say more but stopped herself. I couldnât really blame her. She probably knew just how little there was to say here.
âYou said you lost your mother, right?â I asked. âHow did youâŚâ
âHow did I handle it?â She finished. I nodded.
Nina seemed to think over her answer for a few minutes before finally speaking.
âIâve got two different ways to answer that question,â She said. âFor the grief⌠you just learn to live with it. You make your peace, you carry them in your heart and you thank God for the good memories. I know it doesnât sound like it helps much, but really thatâs the only thing I can offer you. As for the anger⌠the only fix for that is retribution, edgy as it sounds. And for someone like Calhoun, the only thing you can do is take an eye for an eye.â
âIs that what you did?â I asked.
She nodded.
âI know a lot of people whoâll tell you that revenge isnât the answer. But personally, I think theyâre asking the wrong question. The vampires that killed my Mom were⌠they were monsters. A couple of assholes with delusions of grandeur were convinced that they could do whatever they wanted, and nobody would stop them. And for the longest time, they were right. Hunting them down and killing them⌠it didnât fix anything. It didnât undo what theyâd done. But it sure as hell made me feel better. Not because I got revenge, but because I got the personal satisfaction of making sure that karma caught right the fuck up to them. And I sleep a hell of a lot better at night, knowing thatâs what I did.
I nodded in agreement.
âI think I would too,â I said.
***
âWhat I want to know is whyâŚâ Durand said as we sat around the table. He almost looked like a completely different man from when Iâd seen him that morning. He drummed his fingers on his desk and kept smoothing down his hair.
Dom sat beside me, a little quieter than usual with his arms tightly folded to his chest. He stared down at the table but didnât seem to actually be looking at anything.
âRankin Mills, Bakersfield, Thompson Falls⌠why? They were his own goddamn people!â
âNot for much longer,â Dr. Di Cesare said. She was the only one at the table without a grim expression. âCalhoun was most certainly aware of our operations. Provided he had no other immediate means to disrupt them, then this course of action may have simply been the most effective.â
âThe most effective?â Nina asked incredulously, âWeâve only been working this job for a few days, and the first thing this asshole did was throw all of his toys out of the fucking pram. âIf I canât have them, no one can.ââ
âWe were lucky to get about fifty people out of Thompson Falls!â Dom added, âFifty, out of five hundred!â
âWe only got four out of Rankin MillsâŚâ Kallas said. âThe rest were tangled in those branches⌠Iâve never seen anything like it.â
âConsidering the unprecedented control Calhoun demonstrates here, unprecedented occurrences should be expected,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âBut I must admit, it is fascinating. Given the chance, Iâd like to visit the afflicted areas for further study. Although I do also appreciate the samples your team provided, Mr. Kallas. Much obliged.â
Kallas ignored her comment before looking at Milo.
âSo where exactly do we go from here?â He asked, âAfter today, thereâs not a hell of a lot left to rescue!â
âIâm aware,â Durand said. âBut letâs try and stay focused on the ones we did get out. We should keep a close eye on the towns too just in case. There may be some stragglers we missed.â
He looked up at Dom next.
âCorrect me if Iâm wrong but by taking out Rankin Mills and Bakersfield, heâs shot himself in the foot too, hasnât he?â He asked, âIâd imagine that Parsons would be without food and power too, now.â
âNot exactly,â Dom said. âParsons has its own power plant. Itâs not exactly as powerful as the one in Rankin Mills, but from what Iâve heard it should be enough to keep the town running. As for the food supply, that might be a little dicier. But Iâm willing to bet that Calhoun has a fix for that too.â
âGiven his implied ability to come and go as he pleases from this Pocket Reality, as well as the lack of a sufficient explanation for where his fuel and ammunition comes from, itâs reasonable to assume that outside supply lines do exist,â Dr. Di Cesare said, before pausing to think. She checked something in her notebook before looking back at us. âA theoryâŚâ She said, âI agree that leaping to such a drastic response so early in our operation does seem unusual. What if this move wasnât petty, but practical?â
âPractical?â Durand asked.
âAs of now, Calhoun has brought five towns into the pocket over at minimum a fifty year period. Why stagger them so far apart?â
âWell Iâd imagine itâd take a hell of a lot of juice to pull off something like this,â Durand said and Dr. Di Cesare shook her head.
âCorrect, but not relevant. Power is not the issue. Timing is. Calhoun must have been aware that someone could come for him. Hence, he moved slowly. Avoided drawing attention. He was only discovered by accident. Had that accident not occurred, he could have continued to operate for decades more, but I digress. Us here right now may stand as a realization of one of his greatest fears. Discovery. Opposition. Now that he has seen his fears realized. It may explain his drastic actions. Perhaps this is not an act of pettiness⌠but of sacrifice.â
The rest of us at the table were quiet. I was the one who broke the silence.
âSacrifice to what?â I asked.
âCountless Gods dwell within the Midnight Grove, each offering various gifts in exchange for souls. With enough souls to trade, Calhoun could very quickly evolve from a problem into a genuine threat. Running the numbers⌠it makes too much sense. The towns technically remain under his control. The people may be gone, but the people can be replaced. And having obtained the power to drive us off, what reason would Calhoun have to continue to develop this place at its previous steady pace? He could⌠no, he would need to push for a more aggressive expansion to compensate for his losses. And with the assurance that we and likely others could do little to stop him, I see no incentive for him not to do exactly that.â
âSo what, this is some kind of power move?â Nina asked, âNow that he sees what heâs up against, heâs trying to bulk up?â
âIt would be the sensible thing to do,â Dr. Di Cesare said. For the first time since Iâd met her, she looked genuinely troubled.
I saw Durandâs brow crease.
âIf thatâs what heâs up to, then we need to deal with him sooner or later. Gretchen, Kallas we need to go over the estimated death toll. Calhoun just killed a whole hell of a lot of people. I wanna have some idea of what he might be trying to buy.â
âNo need. It would be impossible to predict,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âThe terms of whatever agreement he may have entered into would be known only to him, the Eldest and whatever entity heâs looking to barter with⌠and given what heâs already done, time may be against us. Immediate action needs to be taken.â
She reached into her coat again to take out the revolver. She set it on the table again.
âWe have a means of execution. All we need now is opportunity.â
âHow many bullets are in that gun?â Nina asked.
âThe cylinder holds six, we have five remaining,â Dr. Di Cesare replied. âGiven time and resources, I could make more, but-â
âYou just said that we donât have time,â Nina replied. âWe only need one to kill him. Five should more than do the trick.â
Dr. Di Cesare nodded.
âAgreed,â She said.
âSo if we can kill the fucker, letâs just do it and get it over with,â Dom said. He looked over at me. I gave no response, I just looked down at the gun and remembered what it had done to the Nightwalker the other night.
I wouldâve loved to see it do the same to Calhoun.
Durand was also staring down at the gun, and after a moment gave a single, tense nod.
âAlright,â He finally said. âKallas, I need you to continue overseeing the evacuation. Double time it, make sure everyone gets out. Do whatever you have to. And Valentine, Iâm giving you the official go ahead to find Ben Calhoun and deal with him by any means necessary.â
âItâd be my genuine pleasure,â Valentine said.
âGood. Then letâs get-â
A klaxon alarm sounded from somewhere outside, cutting Durand off.
âProximity warning,â Kallas said. âSomethingâs coming.â
âNightwalkers?â Dom asked.
âBut itâs not dark yet!â I replied.
Durand just pushed past us, stepping out of the tent with the rest of us right behind him. The sky was still bright, but we could see mist flowing in past the empty buildings and the FRBâs tents and inside the mist, we could see the shadows of what was coming.
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Sixth Entry
Journal of Camille Lambert - April 13th
As we drove back to Puriysk in the morning I watched the landscape pass me by with a quiet melancholy and promised myself that Iâd see it all again soon.
Dom sat in the back seat of the SUV beside me while Nina drove, contentedly munching on a fresh bag of sunflower seeds as the ruined church loomed ahead of us.
âSo the first order of business is evacuation, right?â Dom asked, âIn which case, Iâve gotta ask, how exactly do we factor into this?â
âRight now, Miloâs thinking you two can help with the Thompson Falls evacuation,â Nina said. âItâd probably be helpful to have a couple of locals there to make sure people know weâre actually here to help, as opposed to just another group of jackoffs bringing in a fresh batch of misery. Although it sounds like Iâm gonna be stuck in Puriysk for the time being,â
âYouâre not coming with?â I asked.
âNah, Milo wants me around in case Calhoun tries anything. Iâll probably be with Gretchen in the archive, looking for anything useful. Fun, fun, fun.â
âSo youâre with Dr. Di Cesare? I asked, âShould be interesting at least.â I said.
âI could be worse off,â Nina admitted, âItâs hard to get a read on her, but if Milo trusts her, so do I. Besides from what Iâve heard, sheâs one of the most powerful witches out there, which is probably saying a lot considering the fact that sheâs a Di Cesare. Just about all of them are powerful witches, and theyâve got some serious pull among vampires.â
âSheâs a vampire?â I asked. I thought back to the way sheâd been out and nothing about her stood out as anything particularly âvampire-ishâ. She was a little pale, I guess. But so was Dom and I was pretty sure he wasnât a vampire!
âThe whole Di Cesare family is,â Nina said before noticing my obvious concern, âDonât worry about it, most vampires are pretty safe. Miloâs probably got some volunteers lined up to keep her supplied with fresh blood as she needs it. Plus, the Di Cesareâs are generally pretty peaceful. I wouldnât pick a fight with them, but they donât cause that much trouble unprovoked.â
âDo you know a lot of the Di Cesareâs?â I asked. Nina just shrugged.
âI met a couple of her sisters on a trip to Greece last year through some mutual friends but that was more of a social thing,â She said. âFrom what I heard, Gretchen doesnât really get out much. Iâm a little surprised that Milo was able to bring her in on this, but then again Milo could probably sell vodka at an AA meeting.â
Somehow I didnât doubt that.
âSo how long do you think the evacuation might take?â Dom asked, âHow long until we shift focus to Calhoun?â
âShouldnât be that long,â Nina said. âMilo wants this run pretty smoothly. A few days, give or take. The hard part is gonna be what to do with everyone once theyâre on the outside. Not sure how Miloâs gonna manage, but thatâs above my pay grade. Iâm just gonna assume heâs figured something out. Donât worry. If everything goes to plan, weâll be done with this in the next week or so and you two can go back to your hotel room for âcoffeeâ.â
Both Dom and I looked over at her.
âThin walls,â She replied, not even taking her eyes off the road. I caught Dom turning bright red before he looked out the window, trying to end this conversation as quickly as possible.
The church was just ahead of us, although now I barely recognized it. Several large metal poles had been put up, bearing familiar sigils on them. I noticed white spray paint in the grass, marking a larger ritual circle. Several tents had been set up in an area outside of the ritual circle and I could see people near them. The people from Puriysk, most likely. There were even more tents that sat empty nearby, no doubt waiting for the refugees from the other towns.
I could see smoke rising from the collapsed roof of the church itself. Our bonfire from the other night still seemed to be going strong. That was probably a good thing. I could see other trucks parked outside the church, with other tents surrounded by soldiers. This looked to be some kind of staging area, although I never got a good look at the finer details of it.
Nina drove past the metal poles, before following a worn path in the road leading to a second set of poles. A doorway back to Puriysk.
As we drew closer to the second set of poles, I noticed a thin mist swirling around the car. I didnât realize I was holding my breath as we passed them until weâd actually passed them and I was greeted by the familiar dense forest Iâd always known.
I looked back at the church, which was quickly swallowed up by the mist again, and relaxed back into my seat as we returned to Puriysk.
Weâd only been gone for a day or so, but Puriysk already looked different than it had when weâd left. Tents had been set up along the main drag and I could see soldiers along the street, all of them relatively heavily armed. Some of them had their faces visible, others wore those netlike veils weâd seen the other night, giving them a more inhuman appearance.
âWhatâs the point of the nets?â Dom asked, watching as we passed a group of soldiers.
âIt breaks up the silhouette or something,â Nina said. âPlus it hides the face. We went over it during the training. Why, you want one?â
âJust wondering,â Dom said, âNever seen anything like this before.â
âItâs more of a special forces type thing,â Nina said, âTechnically the FRB doesnât really do spec ops and shit like that. But I know weâve got a number of ex military types with us. Milo said something about bringing them in.â
âHow many do you think theyâve got?â I asked.
âA couple hundred boots on the ground, I think. Probably fifty or so more just working to support them. Itâs not exactly a massive operation, but itâs big by our standards.â
Dom just nodded passively, his attention still focused on the passing soldiers.
Nina stopped the car in front of a large white RV parked near the ruins of the Deputyâs Office. I could see Durand standing out front of it. Heâd traded his nice suit from the night before for a more practical outfit, jeans, a polo shirt, and a handgun holstered at his hip. As Nina got out of the car, Milo walked over to greet her.
âLove what youâve done with the place.â She said. âThe tents and the soldiers were exactly what was missing here.â
âOh, itâll all come together once we get the power back on,â Milo said. âEverything shut off in the night. Weâve got some backup generators, but itâs still a pain in the ass.â
âCalhoun shut off the power?â Dom asked as he and I got out of the car.
âIf not him, then somebody. We sent some folks out to Rankin Mills to see if they canât get it up and running again. With any luck we should be back to normal shortly. In the meanwhile, Iâve been helping Gretchen bring some stuff up from the archives. Sheâs in the RV, looking through what Iâve found so far. But I could use a hand going through the rest of it.â
âYou got it, boss man,â Nina said. âI saw some interesting shit by the south corner that might be useful.â
âWhat about us?â I asked, âNina said something about us helping with the evacuation.
âYes, actually I had the perfect job in mind for you two,â Durand said. âWe could use some friendly faces going in to the towns to make the evacuation go a bit smoother. Natalyaâs been a huge help here in Puriysk. Weâre hoping to get the same results in the other towns.â
âSonya in Thompson Falls would know to trust Dom,â I said. âIf you can get her on your side, she can probably get most of the town to come along. As for Bakersfield, my Mom lives there. I could help with that team, if you wanted.â
Durand raised an eyebrow.
âYou donât say?â He asked, âYou should tell that to Kallas, then. Heâs down by the town hall, getting the Bakersfield and Thompson Falls teams organized.â
âGot it,â I said before giving Nina a parting nod, âI guess Iâll see you when we get backâ
âSee you when you get back,â Nina replied and gave us a parting weave before turning and heading over to the Deputyâs Office with Durand. As she left, Dom and I started down the street toward a group of trucks and tents near the Puriysk town hall.
It was time to get to work.
***
I was on the first of the Bakersfield trucks as they left and as we drove through the old familiar forest, I watched it with a conflicted nostalgia. On one hand, these misty woods were all Iâd ever really known and I realized that thereâd be a part of me that would miss them when at last I left them behind forever. Of course, knowing what I knew now about our situation ensured I wouldnât miss them too much, but Iâd miss them all the same.
My Mom always used to have a fondness for obscure words. Sheâd been an English teacher once upon a time, so I guess that made sense for her.
âLanguage is so fascinating,â sheâd said to me once. âYou know, thereâs some beautiful words out there for such complex emotions.â
Looking out the window, a few of those words came to mind.
Like: âRĂźckkehrunruhe.â
âItâs this feeling of returning home after a trip, only to find it fading into your memory to the point where it no longer feels real⌠can you imagine.â Sheâd laughed sadly at that.
âYou know, sometimes I canât help but feel that way about the old world. I shouldnât idealize it. It wasnât perfect, but⌠I wouldâve loved for you to see it.â
And I had seen it, hadnât I? What would she say when I told her? What would she say when I came to Bakersfield with a convoy of trucks, come to bring her and everyone else home again. Out of this beautiful, cruel world and back into the one sheâd missed for so long. I could already imagine the way that her eyes would light up⌠I could already imagine her smile. Itâd been a few weeks since Iâd seen her⌠I hoped she was doing okay.
âHereâs another one I like⌠Occhiolism. It describes the awareness of the smallness of your own perspective. Do you understand what Iâm talking about? That⌠melancholy, you sometimes feel when you reflect on your own experiences despite knowing how much more is out there. Or⌠am I thinking of Onism? No⌠no⌠although they are similar. Do you know what Onism means? It describes the frustration of having to live in just one body, that can only be in one place at a time.â
âMom, what are you talking about?â Iâd asked her. Sheâd looked up from the book sheâd been reading and smiled sheepishly at me.
âSorry⌠I guess I just feel like sharing these with someone. They are interesting, donât you think?â
âYeah, I guess they are,â I said, mostly just to be polite. Sheâd paused for a moment, almost closing the book.
âYou can keep going!â I said, âCome on, tell me another one.â
âHow about âNodus Tollensâ. Itâs the realization that the plot of your life doesnât make sense to you anymore. You know I sort of like the wording there. Speaking of life like a story to be toldâŚâ
The truck turned and I recognized the landmark weâd just passed. An old, crumbling house that had been abandoned for as long as I could remember. Bakersfield was just ahead. I perked up a little bit and looked over at the driver beside me.
âItâs just up ahead,â I said. âDo you need directions to the house?â
âYes please,â The Driver said.
âRight, once you see the Whitman farm on the right you know youâre in Bakersfield. From there, you just keep on the main road until you reach the downtown area. Thereâs sort of a suburb right past that andâŚâ
My voice died in my throat as I caught a glimpse of what was in the mist ahead of us. I could see the familiar fence of the Whitman farm just up ahead but something seemed wrong.
âIs the mist always this heavy?â The driver asked.
âNot hereâŚâ I replied. Iâd never seen it this heavy in any of the towns before. We could barely see a few feet in front of us. I tried to get a better look at the fence. Tried to understand why it looked so wrong. It almost seemed to be tangled in vines or branches or something.
And as we drove closer to the storefront of the farm itself, I noticed the same vines growing over the store. The sign that read âWHITMAN FARMSâ was almost unreadable behind the branches. The driver stared at it with narrowed eyes before reaching for his radio.
âTransports 2 to 10, status yellow. Keep on alert.â
The farm faded away into the distance and as it did, I looked ahead anxiously. I could see the downtown area just up ahead, and even from a distance I could see the vines growing over the buildings. I stared with wide, uneasy eyes as we got closer⌠and when I saw the people on the street, I felt a sinking horror burrowing through my chest.
Most of them seemed as if theyâd either been trying to run or had been pulled to the ground⌠and honestly, I only barely still recognized them as people. I could see clothes and sometimes jewelry through the vines⌠but the skin beneath it all looked no different than the wood that bound them.
I looked over at the driver beside me to see an uneasy dread written all over his face. He looked at the silent figures we passed with the same horror I knew that I felt⌠and I knew that just like me, he had no answers.
âWhat the hell is thisâŚâ He said under his breath.
âI donât know., Came my honest reply.
Thick branches seemed to burst from the concrete sidewalks, ensnaring those whoâd once passed them by. I could see an upended baby stroller on the street, one of the branches burrowing into it, and felt my heart seize in my chest. As I drank in the eerie silence of Bakersfield, the knowing gnawed at the back of my mindâŚ
âDrive faster,â I said. âThird turn up ahead. Take a right.â
âMaâamâŚ?â The Driver asked.
âNow!â I said.
He looked at me, silently understanding what I was asking and why. The truck sped up, blowing past stop signs and darkened stoplights. I donât suppose that it mattered. There were no other vehicles on the road. He only slowed a little for the turn and even then, he took it fast.
âTake Lake Street, itâs the fifth house,â I said and waited for him to take the turn. As we drove, I kept glancing at every house we passed. I could see branches jutting in through their windows⌠and darkness within.
No⌠no, no, noâŚ
The truck took its final turn. I could see Momâs house up ahead.
âThat one!â I said, pointing it out.
He didnât even have time to stop fully before Iâd thrown open the door and was getting out.
Momâs house was no different than the others. The vines had grown along the sides, even slipping under the pastel siding in some places and prying it off the outside walls. Thick branches jutted out of the earth and had through some of the walls.
âNoâŚâ I said under my breath. Before I even knew what I was doing, I was running. I unlocked her door and tore inside, looking around frantically.
âMom?â I called, but there was no answer. Only mist and silence.
âMOM?!â I called again, running down the hall toward her bedroom. I didnât see her there either⌠but I did see her bathroom door hanging open, and I could see the ivy, growing out from the door and crawling along her carpet. On legs like jelly, I started toward the door. With one trembling hand, I pushed it open, knowing what Iâd see inside but praying to whatever God might listen that it wouldnât be there.
The branches that entombed her didnât cover her face. Her skin was gray, almost blending in to the wood itself⌠but I still recognized her. Her eyes were half open, as was her mouth, and the moment I saw her, I knew she was past saving.
âNo⌠no⌠noâŚâ The word tumbled meaninglessly out of my mouth as my legs gave out from under me, sending me crashing down to the ground. The tears began to fall and soon, the only thing I could do was scream.
***
âHereâs an eerie one⌠Kenopsia. It describes the forlorn, unsettling atmosphere of a place that is usually filled with people, but is now quiet and abandoned.â
Momâs voice echoed in my mind as I sat in the tent back in Puriysk.
The past few hours seemed like a blur. I could remember the trip to Bakersfield and the sight of her body. But everything after felt like a half remembered dream.
I hadnât been able to stay in Bakersfield⌠there wasnât any point to my staying and I could barely even remember a single detail about the drive back. It all just happened around me, as the reality of what Iâd seen untethered me from the present moment and cast me adrift and mindless in time. My hands were still shaking a little and though my breathing had calmed down, my heart certainly hadnât. I could still feel it racing.
âRubatosis⌠the uncomfortable sensation of being aware of ones own heartbeat. Huh⌠you know, I always wondered if everyone else was uncomfortable being aware of that. Feeling your own pulse and stuff like that⌠do you ever get that, Cammy?â
âCam?â
I looked up to see Nina standing at the door to the tent. Her expression was grave and her voice, heavier than usual.
âHowâre you holding up?â She asked.
I didnât answer. I didnât need to. She approached my table and sat down beside me.
âI brought you a drink. Wasnât sure if youâd want something hard or not, so I technically got two, butâŚâ
I saw the beer in her hand and quietly took it although I didnât immediately take a drink. Nina watched me for a moment, before sighing and opening her own drink. And for a few minutes, thatâs just how we stayed.
âKallas said he found some holdouts after you left,â Nina said after a while. âHe got back with them about an hour ago.â
I looked over at her.
âHow many?â I asked. Nina hesitated before answering.
âTwenty⌠maybe thirty.â
I felt the weight in my chest drop even lower. Twenty or thirty⌠thereâd been hundreds of people in Bakersfield, and weâd only brought back twenty or thirty.
I looked back at Nina. She was staring down at her drink, and I knew that there was more.
âWhat about Thompson FallsâŚ?â I asked, âOr Rankin?â
âWeâre meeting with Milo to go through it in ten minutes,â She said. âYou donât need to go but⌠I think you should be there. Better you know sooner rather than later.â
âHow bad is it?â I asked softly.
âBad,â Nina replied, before taking a sip of her drink. âItâs the same story in Rankin and Thompson⌠weâve got survivors. But not a lot.â
âSonyaâŚ?â I asked.
âAlive, thankfully,â Nina said. âAlong with most of the people who were inside the Roadhouse.â
I closed my eyes and exhaled, feeling that weight lift just a little bit. At least there was some good news.
I finally took a sip of my drink. Nina seemed to want to say more but stopped herself. I couldnât really blame her. She probably knew just how little there was to say here.
âYou said you lost your mother, right?â I asked. âHow did youâŚâ
âHow did I handle it?â She finished. I nodded.
Nina seemed to think over her answer for a few minutes before finally speaking.
âIâve got two different ways to answer that question,â She said. âFor the grief⌠you just learn to live with it. You make your peace, you carry them in your heart and you thank God for the good memories. I know it doesnât sound like it helps much, but really thatâs the only thing I can offer you. As for the anger⌠the only fix for that is retribution, edgy as it sounds. And for someone like Calhoun, the only thing you can do is take an eye for an eye.â
âIs that what you did?â I asked.
She nodded.
âI know a lot of people whoâll tell you that revenge isnât the answer. But personally, I think theyâre asking the wrong question. The vampires that killed my Mom were⌠they were monsters. A couple of assholes with delusions of grandeur were convinced that they could do whatever they wanted, and nobody would stop them. And for the longest time, they were right. Hunting them down and killing them⌠it didnât fix anything. It didnât undo what theyâd done. But it sure as hell made me feel better. Not because I got revenge, but because I got the personal satisfaction of making sure that karma caught right the fuck up to them. And I sleep a hell of a lot better at night, knowing thatâs what I did.
I nodded in agreement.
âI think I would too,â I said.
***
âWhat I want to know is whyâŚâ Durand said as we sat around the table. He almost looked like a completely different man from when Iâd seen him that morning. He drummed his fingers on his desk and kept smoothing down his hair.
Dom sat beside me, a little quieter than usual with his arms tightly folded to his chest. He stared down at the table but didnât seem to actually be looking at anything.
âRankin Mills, Bakersfield, Thompson Falls⌠why? They were his own goddamn people!â
âNot for much longer,â Dr. Di Cesare said. She was the only one at the table without a grim expression. âCalhoun was most certainly aware of our operations. Provided he had no other immediate means to disrupt them, then this course of action may have simply been the most effective.â
âThe most effective?â Nina asked incredulously, âWeâve only been working this job for a few days, and the first thing this asshole did was throw all of his toys out of the fucking pram. âIf I canât have them, no one can.ââ
âWe were lucky to get about fifty people out of Thompson Falls!â Dom added, âFifty, out of five hundred!â
âWe only got four out of Rankin MillsâŚâ Kallas said. âThe rest were tangled in those branches⌠Iâve never seen anything like it.â
âConsidering the unprecedented control Calhoun demonstrates here, unprecedented occurrences should be expected,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âBut I must admit, it is fascinating. Given the chance, Iâd like to visit the afflicted areas for further study. Although I do also appreciate the samples your team provided, Mr. Kallas. Much obliged.â
Kallas ignored her comment before looking at Milo.
âSo where exactly do we go from here?â He asked, âAfter today, thereâs not a hell of a lot left to rescue!â
âIâm aware,â Durand said. âBut letâs try and stay focused on the ones we did get out. We should keep a close eye on the towns too just in case. There may be some stragglers we missed.â
He looked up at Dom next.
âCorrect me if Iâm wrong but by taking out Rankin Mills and Bakersfield, heâs shot himself in the foot too, hasnât he?â He asked, âIâd imagine that Parsons would be without food and power too, now.â
âNot exactly,â Dom said. âParsons has its own power plant. Itâs not exactly as powerful as the one in Rankin Mills, but from what Iâve heard it should be enough to keep the town running. As for the food supply, that might be a little dicier. But Iâm willing to bet that Calhoun has a fix for that too.â
âGiven his implied ability to come and go as he pleases from this Pocket Reality, as well as the lack of a sufficient explanation for where his fuel and ammunition comes from, itâs reasonable to assume that outside supply lines do exist,â Dr. Di Cesare said, before pausing to think. She checked something in her notebook before looking back at us. âA theoryâŚâ She said, âI agree that leaping to such a drastic response so early in our operation does seem unusual. What if this move wasnât petty, but practical?â
âPractical?â Durand asked.
âAs of now, Calhoun has brought five towns into the pocket over at minimum a fifty year period. Why stagger them so far apart?â
âWell Iâd imagine itâd take a hell of a lot of juice to pull off something like this,â Durand said and Dr. Di Cesare shook her head.
âCorrect, but not relevant. Power is not the issue. Timing is. Calhoun must have been aware that someone could come for him. Hence, he moved slowly. Avoided drawing attention. He was only discovered by accident. Had that accident not occurred, he could have continued to operate for decades more, but I digress. Us here right now may stand as a realization of one of his greatest fears. Discovery. Opposition. Now that he has seen his fears realized. It may explain his drastic actions. Perhaps this is not an act of pettiness⌠but of sacrifice.â
The rest of us at the table were quiet. I was the one who broke the silence.
âSacrifice to what?â I asked.
âCountless Gods dwell within the Midnight Grove, each offering various gifts in exchange for souls. With enough souls to trade, Calhoun could very quickly evolve from a problem into a genuine threat. Running the numbers⌠it makes too much sense. The towns technically remain under his control. The people may be gone, but the people can be replaced. And having obtained the power to drive us off, what reason would Calhoun have to continue to develop this place at its previous steady pace? He could⌠no, he would need to push for a more aggressive expansion to compensate for his losses. And with the assurance that we and likely others could do little to stop him, I see no incentive for him not to do exactly that.â
âSo what, this is some kind of power move?â Nina asked, âNow that he sees what heâs up against, heâs trying to bulk up?â
âIt would be the sensible thing to do,â Dr. Di Cesare said. For the first time since Iâd met her, she looked genuinely troubled.
I saw Durandâs brow crease.
âIf thatâs what heâs up to, then we need to deal with him sooner or later. Gretchen, Kallas we need to go over the estimated death toll. Calhoun just killed a whole hell of a lot of people. I wanna have some idea of what he might be trying to buy.â
âNo need. It would be impossible to predict,â Dr. Di Cesare said. âThe terms of whatever agreement he may have entered into would be known only to him, the Eldest and whatever entity heâs looking to barter with⌠and given what heâs already done, time may be against us. Immediate action needs to be taken.â
She reached into her coat again to take out the revolver. She set it on the table again.
âWe have a means of execution. All we need now is opportunity.â
âHow many bullets are in that gun?â Nina asked.
âThe cylinder holds six, we have five remaining,â Dr. Di Cesare replied. âGiven time and resources, I could make more, but-â
âYou just said that we donât have time,â Nina replied. âWe only need one to kill him. Five should more than do the trick.â
Dr. Di Cesare nodded.
âAgreed,â She said.
âSo if we can kill the fucker, letâs just do it and get it over with,â Dom said. He looked over at me. I gave no response, I just looked down at the gun and remembered what it had done to the Nightwalker the other night.
I wouldâve loved to see it do the same to Calhoun.
Durand was also staring down at the gun, and after a moment gave a single, tense nod.
âAlright,â He finally said. âKallas, I need you to continue overseeing the evacuation. Double time it, make sure everyone gets out. Do whatever you have to. And Valentine, Iâm giving you the official go ahead to find Ben Calhoun and deal with him by any means necessary.â
âItâd be my genuine pleasure,â Valentine said.
âGood. Then letâs get-â
A klaxon alarm sounded from somewhere outside, cutting Durand off.
âProximity warning,â Kallas said. âSomethingâs coming.â
âNightwalkers?â Dom asked.
âBut itâs not dark yet!â I replied.
Durand just pushed past us, stepping out of the tent with the rest of us right behind him. The sky was still bright, but we could see mist flowing in past the empty buildings and the FRBâs tents and inside the mist, we could see the shadows of what was coming.
2023.03.22 19:49 DeaditeDestroyer Leave troops in a companion party
Can you safely leave troops in a companion party and set them to neutral? I want to go on a quick looter farm to get my final levels for bow but every looter group surrenders to my army. I thought about creating a companion party, parking my troops there and setting them to neutral. I have the fear tho, that they will replace my troops or otherwise.
submitted by DeaditeDestroyer to Bannerlord [link] [comments]
2023.03.22 19:45 reps4jesus231 Am I supposed to keep up with the levels of enemies?
Hey all I'm playing on hard and I get that the game is pretty punishing but I just beat left the amusement park and all the enemies are way higher level than me, I'm 13 right now despite doing all the side quests and killing everything I see but all the enemies are level 20 minimum am I supposed to be so underdeveloped thanks in advance
submitted by reps4jesus231 to NieRAutomataGame [link] [comments]
2023.03.22 19:40 JustADiamondPickaxe How do I tell my friends that I want to be on my own without hurting their feelings?
Hey Reddit!
Pretty much, I've got an upcoming school trip to an amusement park. Now, I've been a loner all my life, so I'm a person who likes to do things (especially involving exploring free roam areas) on my own and by myself. I've found it quite a hassle having to be with 2+ people in a group deciding whether to go to X place or Y place or Z place or whatever.
I have friends that I talk to on my breaks/recess. I quite like them and they quite like me. 'We' are all part of a roughly 5 person group, however my two friends are the ones I mainly chat with (when there aren't any others of the group). I also think one of these specific friends likes me a bunch, and over most of the group as she seems closer to me though I do see them both at the same time normally.
Recently I've gone some other trip with them and I've got to experience what it's really like being with them for hours on end. I have decided that although they are my friends, I don't like being with them for THAT much time. It's not like I dislike them or anything, I still like them a lot in fact, but I just don't want to be with them in free roam trips. Mainly because I'm a person who doesn't like to wait around for other people and I like to do MY stuff instead of others' stuff. Is it selfish? Yeah, probably. Which is why I like to keep to myself in trips like these. If I do decide to be with them, I'll have to put up a happy face and follow them everywhere and give up what I want to do to make them happy, which means I won't get to enjoy myself because I'm busy acting how they want me to, because I don't want to upset them.
For this reason, I don't want to spend the full trip with them, though I do still wanna see them for our lunch breaks and stuff. It's just I don't wanna be with them for the full X amount of hours, but rather just do my own thing and if I stumble upon them I'll chat with them for a bit and join them, but also get to be by myself a bit.
However, I don't know how I can tell them or do something so I can stay by myself without hurting their feelings. I've thought of maybe just slipping away under some sort of excuse (e.g 'oh you guys want to go to X ride but I wanna go to Y ride so I'll just go to the other one and you guys can go do what you like') but they're probably going to stick with me anyways (which is really nice of them but also inconvenient).
So, reddit, any ideas of how I can end up with a portion of the trip by myself while also not hurting their feelings?
submitted by JustADiamondPickaxe to Advice [link] [comments]
Pretty much, I've got an upcoming school trip to an amusement park. Now, I've been a loner all my life, so I'm a person who likes to do things (especially involving exploring free roam areas) on my own and by myself. I've found it quite a hassle having to be with 2+ people in a group deciding whether to go to X place or Y place or Z place or whatever.
I have friends that I talk to on my breaks/recess. I quite like them and they quite like me. 'We' are all part of a roughly 5 person group, however my two friends are the ones I mainly chat with (when there aren't any others of the group). I also think one of these specific friends likes me a bunch, and over most of the group as she seems closer to me though I do see them both at the same time normally.
Recently I've gone some other trip with them and I've got to experience what it's really like being with them for hours on end. I have decided that although they are my friends, I don't like being with them for THAT much time. It's not like I dislike them or anything, I still like them a lot in fact, but I just don't want to be with them in free roam trips. Mainly because I'm a person who doesn't like to wait around for other people and I like to do MY stuff instead of others' stuff. Is it selfish? Yeah, probably. Which is why I like to keep to myself in trips like these. If I do decide to be with them, I'll have to put up a happy face and follow them everywhere and give up what I want to do to make them happy, which means I won't get to enjoy myself because I'm busy acting how they want me to, because I don't want to upset them.
For this reason, I don't want to spend the full trip with them, though I do still wanna see them for our lunch breaks and stuff. It's just I don't wanna be with them for the full X amount of hours, but rather just do my own thing and if I stumble upon them I'll chat with them for a bit and join them, but also get to be by myself a bit.
However, I don't know how I can tell them or do something so I can stay by myself without hurting their feelings. I've thought of maybe just slipping away under some sort of excuse (e.g 'oh you guys want to go to X ride but I wanna go to Y ride so I'll just go to the other one and you guys can go do what you like') but they're probably going to stick with me anyways (which is really nice of them but also inconvenient).
So, reddit, any ideas of how I can end up with a portion of the trip by myself while also not hurting their feelings?
2023.03.22 18:52 OkMechanic6906 a few days in town, whats some underground weird stuff to see
hello fellow travelers,
iâm lucky enough to be in seoul in a couple weeks (apr 5-13) and id love to know what your favorite underground (or even just underappreciated) haunts are. i plan to check out the abandoned amusement park and pack myself full of great bbq, fried chicken, and who knows what else - id love to solicit any input you have on all of that as well. Im staying in dongdaemun and gangnam. bonus points if theres weird electronic music or drum and bass going on anywhere close - i might actually rent a car to get out there if it came to that. thanks!!
submitted by OkMechanic6906 to koreatravel [link] [comments]
iâm lucky enough to be in seoul in a couple weeks (apr 5-13) and id love to know what your favorite underground (or even just underappreciated) haunts are. i plan to check out the abandoned amusement park and pack myself full of great bbq, fried chicken, and who knows what else - id love to solicit any input you have on all of that as well. Im staying in dongdaemun and gangnam. bonus points if theres weird electronic music or drum and bass going on anywhere close - i might actually rent a car to get out there if it came to that. thanks!!
2023.03.22 18:47 Gullible_Eggplant_27 Book the Best Budget Cottages Yercaud for Family
In contrast to family, friends, or couples, Yercaud, a hill station in the Salem region, is a destination that is appropriate for all types of visitors because it offers tourist attractions including lakes, hilltops, temples, deer parks, etc.
Yercaud is a combination of the words "Yeri" for lakes and "Kaadu" for forests. Given that all of the tourist attractions are close by, Sahana Cottages offers the best accommodations in Yercaud. You may surely awaken to the scent of freshly brewed coffee and views of the lush forest at Sahana cottages because the area is well renowned for its coffee farms and dense bamboo forest.
Sahana Cottages offers you the most affordable access to heaven on Earth while keeping you away from the busy city, horns, and noises.
Yercaud cottages can be a great option for travelers who want to enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating stay amidst nature.
Here are some reasons why Sahana cottages could be a good choice:
Overall, staying in a cottage in Yercaud can be a unique and relaxing experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local culture of the region.
submitted by Gullible_Eggplant_27 to richtimeholidays [link] [comments]
Yercaud is a combination of the words "Yeri" for lakes and "Kaadu" for forests. Given that all of the tourist attractions are close by, Sahana Cottages offers the best accommodations in Yercaud. You may surely awaken to the scent of freshly brewed coffee and views of the lush forest at Sahana cottages because the area is well renowned for its coffee farms and dense bamboo forest.
Sahana Cottages offers you the most affordable access to heaven on Earth while keeping you away from the busy city, horns, and noises.
Yercaud cottages can be a great option for travelers who want to enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating stay amidst nature.
Here are some reasons why Sahana cottages could be a good choice:
Serene Location:
Yercaud is a hill station located in the lap of nature, surrounded by lush greenery, and dotted with waterfalls and lakes. Staying in a cottage allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region to the fullest.Privacy:
Cottages in Yercaud are usually located away from the crowds and offer a sense of privacy and seclusion. This can be ideal for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in a tranquil environment.Unique Experience:
Cottages offer a unique and authentic experience of living in the hills. Most cottages are designed to reflect the local architecture and culture, giving you a taste of the local way of life.Comfortable Accommodation:
Cottages in Yercaud offer comfortable accommodation with all the necessary amenities such as clean and spacious rooms, hot water, room service, and so on. Some cottages may also offer additional facilities such as a kitchenette, bonfire arrangements, or recreational activities.Affordable:
Compared to hotels, cottages in Yercaud are often more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.Overall, staying in a cottage in Yercaud can be a unique and relaxing experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local culture of the region.
2023.03.22 17:45 Asleep_Recognition80 Kabe Koji - when they're BFFs IRL
 | submitted by Asleep_Recognition80 to boyslove [link] [comments] |
2023.03.22 17:33 AacornSoup Back to Business (sims) with Planet Coaster.
This afternoon, we will be going back to business sims with Planet Coaster. Today we will continue to build a Super Nerd Land amusement park with themed areas dedicated to various Twitch Streamers (including Martyr and Tofu), using only original coasters and coaster blueprints of my own design. Results may vary, however, since I'm still a noob, and theming may come later (for the same reason). You can watch here: https://www.twitch.tv/aacornsoup
submitted by AacornSoup to AacornSoupTwitch [link] [comments]
2023.03.22 17:11 Arceus919 Baron Augustus Reinhold
Baron Augustus Reinhold
Curious Village is a game near and dear to my heart. It was the second (oops) Professor Layton game that I played, because I saw Diabolical Box advertised in a Nintendo Power magazine and thought it looked fun, so I played it. After completing it, I rushed to GameStop to buy Curious Village as well because I had been captivated by the gameâs world and puzzles that I loved.
Playing the game 10+ years later, I start to notice some things that seem, well, off. I suppose this is to be expected as itâs the world of video games, but I just couldnât shake the idea that Augustus Reinhold was really not a great father.
The Character
Professor Layton and the Curious Village opens up with Layton telling us that the Baron has passed away and they were going to settle an inheritance dispute - his entire estate would go to whomever found the âgolden appleâ of St. Mystere. Layton had gotten a call from Lady Dahlia (I try my best not to think too hard about how this happened) to help in the search.
Every move we make, the characters tell us how wonderful a father Augustus was and how much he cared for his family. "You'd never seen a man so in love as Master Reinhold was," Ingrid would say. From all the expectations from Matthew, Ingrid, and the rest of the cast, I was expecting much more than what I got out of his tale. Being a father is the only role he has, that's basically the sole purpose of the game.
Look mom Iâm """Helping""" (Before He Died)
Floraâs mother Violet died when she was young. Instead of helping her through grief and being there for her when she needed a parent the most, he went the opposite direction and built Lady Dahlia in Violetâs likeness instead. Flora was frightened by the new robo-mom, but Augustus didnât seem to care - not a good look for someone who loves his daughter so much. Even after saying he would love Flora as much as he loved Violet after her passing, he still managed to show that he cared about his dead wife more than his living daughter by keeping the wife-bot around. Flora would play alone in the manorâs garden around her motherâs grave. Instead of helping cheer her up, spending quality parental time with her, or even thinking about what she might want, he builds a whole ass amusement park all the way on the other side of town for her. It came to no surprise that Flora didnât care for this either, so he lets the park go into ruin and does nothing else to help her.
Look mom I have a """great idea""" (as he was dying)
So Augustus learns that he has a terminal illness and sets about securing a future for her daughter. Mr big money brains decides to build an entire town and fill it with robots (we all know how much Flora loved the first one) to keep her company and """protect""" her. He basically goes and isolates her from the outside world for !!!YEARS!!! Iâm going to assume that Flora is around 13 during the events of the game and was no more than 5 when her mother died. Because it says Augustus dies only a few years later we can estimate that Flora knew and interacted with not a single real person for FIVE YEARS. She lived at the top of the tower with no one to interact with. I kinda feel like a lot of her childhood trauma stemmed from losing family and people close to her, so the best solution is obviously to isolate her, yeah? What a thing to do to your only child. Whatâs worse is what happens after that - the baronâs death is made public and the search for the Golden Apple begins. The will promised riches beyond belief to the winner, but was disguised to also be a contest to find the next family for Flora (I donât even want to go into the original Japanese message at the end of the game, thatâs a whole different rabbit hole). In my opinion, a contest that people went crazy over for untold riches would seem to draw the opposite kind of people that I would want to take care of an only child - âoh hereâs a billion dollars, but also my daughter k thanks.â
Look mom Iâm """dead"""
So Augustus decides to die, leaving Flora to grow up locked away in her tower, not ever knowing if his amazing riddle will ever be solved just like the useless father he was. Great guy.
submitted by Arceus919 to PLRankDown [link] [comments]
Curious Village is a game near and dear to my heart. It was the second (oops) Professor Layton game that I played, because I saw Diabolical Box advertised in a Nintendo Power magazine and thought it looked fun, so I played it. After completing it, I rushed to GameStop to buy Curious Village as well because I had been captivated by the gameâs world and puzzles that I loved.
Playing the game 10+ years later, I start to notice some things that seem, well, off. I suppose this is to be expected as itâs the world of video games, but I just couldnât shake the idea that Augustus Reinhold was really not a great father.
The Character
Professor Layton and the Curious Village opens up with Layton telling us that the Baron has passed away and they were going to settle an inheritance dispute - his entire estate would go to whomever found the âgolden appleâ of St. Mystere. Layton had gotten a call from Lady Dahlia (I try my best not to think too hard about how this happened) to help in the search.
Every move we make, the characters tell us how wonderful a father Augustus was and how much he cared for his family. "You'd never seen a man so in love as Master Reinhold was," Ingrid would say. From all the expectations from Matthew, Ingrid, and the rest of the cast, I was expecting much more than what I got out of his tale. Being a father is the only role he has, that's basically the sole purpose of the game.
Look mom Iâm """Helping""" (Before He Died)
Floraâs mother Violet died when she was young. Instead of helping her through grief and being there for her when she needed a parent the most, he went the opposite direction and built Lady Dahlia in Violetâs likeness instead. Flora was frightened by the new robo-mom, but Augustus didnât seem to care - not a good look for someone who loves his daughter so much. Even after saying he would love Flora as much as he loved Violet after her passing, he still managed to show that he cared about his dead wife more than his living daughter by keeping the wife-bot around. Flora would play alone in the manorâs garden around her motherâs grave. Instead of helping cheer her up, spending quality parental time with her, or even thinking about what she might want, he builds a whole ass amusement park all the way on the other side of town for her. It came to no surprise that Flora didnât care for this either, so he lets the park go into ruin and does nothing else to help her.
Look mom I have a """great idea""" (as he was dying)
So Augustus learns that he has a terminal illness and sets about securing a future for her daughter. Mr big money brains decides to build an entire town and fill it with robots (we all know how much Flora loved the first one) to keep her company and """protect""" her. He basically goes and isolates her from the outside world for !!!YEARS!!! Iâm going to assume that Flora is around 13 during the events of the game and was no more than 5 when her mother died. Because it says Augustus dies only a few years later we can estimate that Flora knew and interacted with not a single real person for FIVE YEARS. She lived at the top of the tower with no one to interact with. I kinda feel like a lot of her childhood trauma stemmed from losing family and people close to her, so the best solution is obviously to isolate her, yeah? What a thing to do to your only child. Whatâs worse is what happens after that - the baronâs death is made public and the search for the Golden Apple begins. The will promised riches beyond belief to the winner, but was disguised to also be a contest to find the next family for Flora (I donât even want to go into the original Japanese message at the end of the game, thatâs a whole different rabbit hole). In my opinion, a contest that people went crazy over for untold riches would seem to draw the opposite kind of people that I would want to take care of an only child - âoh hereâs a billion dollars, but also my daughter k thanks.â
Look mom Iâm """dead"""
So Augustus decides to die, leaving Flora to grow up locked away in her tower, not ever knowing if his amazing riddle will ever be solved just like the useless father he was. Great guy.
2023.03.22 16:40 MakarovJAC A normal day in West Point: Zomboid
So, it's now summer in my current save. And I found there's a lot of things to do besides killing zeds for shits and giggles.
To-Do list:
-Check crops for water, desease, or seeds/harvest.
-Check generator status for gasoline levels and to know when it's about to explode.
-Check surroundings for possible break ins/zeds
-Collect wood for the stove/grill
-Upgrade the facilities/Maintain assets such as: water collectors, fences on dangerous zones, composters, dirt spots for farming, clear up herb spots, pick up trash, clear up blood stains
-Wash/mend up the clothes
-Cook meals for multiple meal times.
-Fix the cars
-Scavenge nearby buildings for useful furniture.
-Scavenge/dismantle houses and furniture for planks and nails. Seriously-if we ever go full MMO, make NAILS into a CURRENCY.
-Scavenge houses for spices. Seriously, a bottle of Ketchup or Salt is way too important for continuing living.
-Tow battered cars off the roads around in town.
-Tow functional cars into the walled parking lot. I'm planning to deliver working vehicles nearby spawn points.
-Customize safehouse: RP rooms like the "Command Center room", "Examination/Doctor's room"; the "Laisure room" filled with games, a Billard table, a candy machine, and paintings; storage rooms filled with crates and shelves; "Mechanic's Storage"; and the "Armory room". Seriosuly, I want that base to become a supply hub for future bases.
-Sometimes, when bored, explore roads to see what's up ahead.
submitted by MakarovJAC to projectzomboid [link] [comments]
To-Do list:
-Check crops for water, desease, or seeds/harvest.
-Check generator status for gasoline levels and to know when it's about to explode.
-Check surroundings for possible break ins/zeds
-Collect wood for the stove/grill
-Upgrade the facilities/Maintain assets such as: water collectors, fences on dangerous zones, composters, dirt spots for farming, clear up herb spots, pick up trash, clear up blood stains
-Wash/mend up the clothes
-Cook meals for multiple meal times.
-Fix the cars
-Scavenge nearby buildings for useful furniture.
-Scavenge/dismantle houses and furniture for planks and nails. Seriously-if we ever go full MMO, make NAILS into a CURRENCY.
-Scavenge houses for spices. Seriously, a bottle of Ketchup or Salt is way too important for continuing living.
-Tow battered cars off the roads around in town.
-Tow functional cars into the walled parking lot. I'm planning to deliver working vehicles nearby spawn points.
-Customize safehouse: RP rooms like the "Command Center room", "Examination/Doctor's room"; the "Laisure room" filled with games, a Billard table, a candy machine, and paintings; storage rooms filled with crates and shelves; "Mechanic's Storage"; and the "Armory room". Seriosuly, I want that base to become a supply hub for future bases.
-Sometimes, when bored, explore roads to see what's up ahead.
2023.03.22 16:29 Jolly_Morning255 CrimeCityLA Signing bonus for PD and EMS! Fly in!!!
https://discord.gg/Crimecityla Join up! Help us build a great community! We ACTUALLY listen to our communityâs wants and needs! We are growing everyday! We have so much to do with more coming! New players not a problem. Our staff can teach you! Check us out you wonât be disappointed. You can now become mayor in the city! We also have a judge,lawyer and jury job! đŤĄ- Adult owner and staff đ˘- free starter motel with storage đŞ- New housing system with all new shells đĽś- Fire clothes đ - play basketball with friends đ- gym with skills system đ˛- Semi realistic economy đŠ¸- Gangs đ- Drugs with addiction and overdose đď¸- Motorcycle club with vests and compound đď¸- Motorcycle dealership âŞď¸- Whitelisted jobs đ- restaurant jobs đď¸- Cayo island with weapon crafting and drugs âľď¸- Boats đ- Custom cars đ- Drag cars đ- Cut players brakes đ- Track vehicles with tracking device đ§- Engine swaps đď¸- Drag strip with working lights đ˛- Play dice đť- Tow your cars with tow rope/trailers đŚ- Cool robberies đ
đ˝- Nail salon job for the ladies đ¤- Recording studio đ˘- Bumper cars đď¸- Buy hideouts and workshops in game 𼳠- Weekly giveaway đ- New MLO and scripts all paid đ- Install drift tires đ- Drive by script â˝ď¸- charge electric cars đ - Buy a camper with interior and stash đ˘- Amusement park on the pier
submitted by Jolly_Morning255 to FiveMServers [link] [comments]
2023.03.22 16:20 SpawnOfOod Have any of you tried thrill rides like roller coasters or thrill rides since diagnosis?
I'm 22F and haven't been to an amusement park in probably about 4 years. Some of my friends want to go, but I'm nervous I won't be able to handle the heat/waiting in lines/things going upside down.
I finally got diagnosed with POTS after battling various doctors since 2014 who mislabeled it as SVT and anxiety. I used to frequent amusement parks and thrill rides from age 15-18 however and didn't really have issues, but then again my symptoms were nowhere near as bad back then.
Edit: oops, brain fog I put thrill ride in the title twice lmao
submitted by SpawnOfOod to POTS [link] [comments]
I finally got diagnosed with POTS after battling various doctors since 2014 who mislabeled it as SVT and anxiety. I used to frequent amusement parks and thrill rides from age 15-18 however and didn't really have issues, but then again my symptoms were nowhere near as bad back then.
Edit: oops, brain fog I put thrill ride in the title twice lmao