#revolutionary table saw safety | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

kanra-nakura · 2 years ago

Text

[Fiction] From Caged Marines to Whitebeard Pirates - Chapter 13 pt. 4

Dragon couldn’t believe it after months and months, nearly two years, of searching, he finally found his baby girl, his daughter, at a location where he had already searched first, Marineford. When he received the call from Luffy nearly two years ago, asking to help the Village because a buster call was called, to help them instead of her, he felt nothing but cold fear and his heart skipped a beat. Then he received a call from Makino asking for his help to save his daughter… he nearly didn’t know what to do next despite answering them.

Fortunately, Ivankov was with him at that time and had actually managed to arrange a group of people and shops to rescue the people of Foosha Village, himself and the Okama were included. When he was near the island he could see the houses burning, and the villagers and bandits huddled together at the shore (though a few of them were trying to extinguish the flames).

Docking at the port area of the Village, Dragon had everyone in the village rush and get on the ships (he didn’t bother with the people in Gray Terminal and nobles after all his daughter asked him to help the villagers and thus they are his priorities), telling them to grab whatever they could (all of them missed the Strawhat that fell from a precious girl’s head, leaving it on the ground as they run for safety), especially with numerous Marine ships merely an hour away from the island itself.

They were just a mile away from Dawn Island when they heard cannons being fired, everyone looked up in fear, thinking it was directed at the ships, even though they were behind the island and not at the front to avoid the Marines. Everyone saw the cannonball landing on their home island instead of their ship, and soon enough Dawn was already up in flames. But they couldn’t stay and watched as everything burned down, so the ship continued to sail, heading to one of their hidden bases in East Blue.

Dragon had Makino, Woodslap, and Dadan brought to his office where he was told the whole story and why his Daughter was not with them, the ship had lost two tables, a dresser, and a chair that day. Dragon then had Kuma, Ivankov, and Inazuma help the survivors settle at their base the moment they arrived, leaving the ship immediately to search for his daughter. A few of the revolutionaries had tried to stop him especially when he tried to take a one-man ship but they failed and then Dragon left.

(He nearly forgot to inform Shanks, whom he had met before because Luffy wished for both of them to meet and know each other, on what was going and instead he received a call from the pirate himself a day later, yelling in horror demanding what was going on, how a Sea King had a bloodied hat of their daughter and WHY THE FUCK CAN’T HE CONTACT DAWN ISLAND? It was hard to convince the Pirate to just stay put and not do anything reckless that would garner the World Government's attention after Dragon told him what happened.

Dragon had to remind the Red-Haired Pirate that Garp knew of his relationship with Luffy and that he was a blabbermouth, which would mean that Sengoku, or worse the Admirals, knew about them. If he attacked the Marineford Luffy might get tortured for information about Shanks himself to blackmail him to stop or for revenge.

Benn’s remarks that Luffy may have been hurt or tortured at the moment were immediately rebutted by Dragon, who reluctantly and painfully said that if his daughter is already being tortured, as long as it’s not about those whom she cared about, she’ll be a bit loose lip and then they’ll stop soon enough.

A slight reminder of what happened to Luffy when she was captured by a pirate called Porchemy, who wanted to get information about her brothers, made them realize that yes, it’s better if they weren’t trying to get information about them. It doesn’t make them happy though, truth be told none of the pirates were but they don’t have the subtleness Dragon has and thus are forced to wait.

They then agreed to not tell Ace and Sabo what happened to their sister and about the buster call with the same reason as to why Shanks is staying put as well, especially with the knowledge that those two are hotheaded to anything towards Luffy. Dragon promised to keep the Emperor updated while said Emperor and his crew would be on the lookout for Luffy (though they knew that the chances of them seeing her were low but at least they were doing something) and make sure the brothers were not going to do anything that will harm her.

(They later learn that that was wishful thinking… because despite not doing anything or keeping things low from Ace and Sabo, their daughter still suffered… it made them hate themselves.)

After a few minutes of assurance and then a slight bonding moment for their hatred towards Garp and a huge hatred towards the World Government, Dragon ended the call, while Shanks went to the island they were near and vented out his frustration there.)

The first place he went to was, of course, the place where he knew they’d be bringing his daughter, Marineford, arriving a week later, a day or two late, considering that the tiny base they had in East Blue was three days away from Dawn and a bit further from Reverse Mountain. Still, he managed to successfully arrive at Marineford with the Marines none the wiser.

He scourged the base, hiding in the shadows, listening to Marines talking, searching through each room, even going as far as checking the Prison Cells that are installed in the Marineford (despite the Impel Down being the famous Prison they have, Marine bases still do have their prison cells for minor criminals or for civilians that have committed a crime).

The Leader of the Revolutionaries didn’t know whether to be relieved or worry further when he couldn’t find his daughter, not even a meep of her being brought to the base. The only things the Marines talked about are the Pirates, him (of course, they talked about him), and the Buster Call on Dawn. Dragon even went as far as spying on his Father and the Fleet Admiral but his daughter was not with them and he found no traces of her at all, not even after spying on them for two weeks, and thus he had assumed that they didn’t have her in Marineford but on a different place, and thus he left.

It had never occurred to Dragon to spy on the Admirals or Tsuru, thinking that they would do nothing, especially Tsuru. He would later learn that he was wrong with that thinking, his daughter was in the Marineford this whole time, and he was just spying on the wrong people.

“Oh Luffy…” Dragon muttered, wiping the tears that were running down from his daughter’s eyes. Said daughter sniffed before grabbing his hand and dragging him inside his room, but not before snapping her fingers and letting red mist-like flames cover the room before they both sat down on the bed.

“Tou-san…” Luffy sobbed out, hugging her father’s waist rather tightly, nuzzling against his body, letting him pat her head, his hand running through her hair. Dragon exhaled shakily, feeling a sob forming in his throat, as he comforted his daughter and himself simultaneously. He couldn’t believe it, after nearly two years of searching, of hoping, of fearing… he finally found his daughter.

(Dragon knew it was a bit hypocritical of him to worry about not seeing Luffy when he had left her alone for years, letting her go when she was nothing but a mere toddler. However, at least when she was staying on Dawn Island, in Foosha Village, he could at least check on her (visit her) or have his people do the job for him, though it was mostly her who did the visits.

This time though, she’s with the people whom he considers enemies and he has no one to know her status or her condition, so he has every right to worry as he searches for her, screw the people that said otherwise.)

“Have you been here this whole time?” Dragon asked, after a couple of minutes, Luffy was no longer crying though her body was shaking with long, racking sobs. This made his heart clench in pain and every sob his daughter released was like a stab in the chest, but Dragon didn’t pressure his daughter, waiting patiently for her to calm down and answer his question on her own.

“No…” Luffy finally answered. “Sometimes, I’m in Mariejois or with Vice-Admiral Tsuru. They never allowed me to stay in one place for a long time.”

“I see…” He muttered, eyes narrowing in slight anger but he calmed down and asked. “Why didn’t you call me with den-den mushi again?”

“...” Luffy closed her eyes, before opening them and looked directly into her father’s eyes as she said. “It was taken away from me… by the Gorosei themselves.”

“The Gorosei?” Her father growled.

“Yes, I’m not sure how they knew I have a den-den mushi, but they had their servants check my body for anything suspicious five days after I first met them, and then when they saw the snail… they immediately had it thrown away.” Luffy nuzzled closer to her father as she remembered the despair and the hopelessness when they took the only thing that could help her.

“Why didn’t you contact me after?” Her Father asked softly.

“Because I’m being monitored.” She answered, sitting up and looking at the corner room, the opposite side of her bed and window. When Dragon looked in that direction as well, freezing when he saw a Surveillance Den-den mushi, and it wasn’t only at that corner, the leader of the revolution realized that nearly every corner of Luffy’s room had one.

As the presence of the snails registered his mind, he immediately thought that Marines were on their way to the room and he and his daughter were in danger. Dragon turned to Luffy, mouth open with a demand for them to leave, only to pause when he saw how calm his daughter was with no hint of worry.

“Did you do something to the snails?” Dragon asked, Luffy merely nodded but didn’t provide any explanation and this made her Father frown and wonder if the red mist flame he saw earlier was the reason why no one was showing up despite him being there. “...Do you have any sort of privacy at all here, Luffy?”

“They didn’t put the den-den mushi in the bathroom, though if I do go inside, then they’re going to time me. If I’m not out after a specific amount of time then they would barge in the room, my privacy be damned.”

“Oh, my daughter…” Dragon whispered, not minding that she cursed (her brothers were the worst, so it shouldn’t be a shock that she would catch that attitude of theirs), grabbing the back of her head, and leaning her forehead against his.

“Tou-san…” Luffy started, fidgeting with her finger before inhaling deeply and asking. “Is Dawn fully gone?”

Dragon sighed in defeat at that, inhaling deeply, and then gave her a small smile. “The Island itself is gone…” He started, his daughter nearly started to cry again when he added. “But the people of Foosha are safe.”

“...Makino and the others?” Hearing Luffy’s voice (one that used to shout her dreams, filled with happiness and vibrant) being spoken softly and warily broke Dragon’s heart as it showed just how affected she was by the events that had happened for the past months.

“That’s right, Makino, the Villagers, and the Mountain Bandits are safe.”

#female luffy #fushichou marco | phoenix marco #marco the phoenix #malu #from caged marines to whitebeard pirates #kanranakura #onepiece

16 notes · View notes

esther-dot · 2 years ago

Note

Hot take but Asha bores me. She’s another one of GRRM’s action girls where he can’t be bothered to give them flaws (unlikable, fatal flaws). She’s not at all some brand new and revolutionary character the way fandom hypes her up to be. She exhibits almost all the tropes you’d expect her to and is a pretty conventional character all things considered.

If she were truly any better than the other Ironborn in any kind of conventionally moral sense, none of them would have respected her. She’s clearly fine leading the Ironmen to rape, invade, and pillage up and down the coasts of Westeros. She completely absorbed the Ironborn lifestyle and loves it. She was complicit with the culture for years. It’s expected (justly and with good reason) for Theon to grapple with the horror and immorality of reaving, and his own role in it. But Asha kind of gets away with it. She contemplates its prudence and sustainability, but readers are never fully faced with the reality of what she does, and are arguably invited to see her as Supercool Kickass Feminist Warrior instead.

Me: my anons are clearly working as a group to get me kicked out of the fandom

Also me: Outrageous. I’ll be damned if I’m the slacker in this group project! 😂

I wasn't aware that Asha was that hyped! She seemed to be Martin's attempt to have someone of the culture be a little more reasonable/not as bloodthirsty

"And if I shout your name?" Harmund demanded. "What then?"

"Peace," said Asha. "Land. Victory. I'll give you Sea Dragon Point and the Stony Shore, black earth and tall trees and stones enough for every younger son to build a hall. We'll have the northmen too . . . as friends, to stand with us against the Iron Throne. Your choice is simple. Crown me, for peace and victory. Or crown my nuncle, for more war and more defeat." She sheathed her dirk again. "What will you have, ironmen?"

"VICTORY!" shouted Rodrik the Reader, his hands cupped about his mouth. "Victory, and Asha!" (AFFC, The Drowned Man)

so I think she's meant to be a nuance within the framework of the Ironborn, but I see what you're saying. Pointing out the practicality of something is not commentary on morality or a sign that she would be able to completely change things. You’re probably right that the kind of fantasy tropes she hits help her go uncriticized.

Now that I think about it though, the trope may be old, but she is written in an interesting way within the context of ASOIAF. Asha would pursue a practical peace where Dany can't quite manage, Asha has ambition that Sansa totally lacks, she does not have the romantic nature that both Sansa and Dany have, and she is certainly not as evil as Cersei, but some of her lines comment on sexism in a similar way. So she is potentially a way to round out the female POVs if we read it generously. She will never go as far as Dany or Cersei, she will never be as compassionate as Sansa.

I suppose more importantly, Asha has one of those lines that seem significant as far as understanding the war v peace struggle and where a character falls:

A throwing axe was in her hand. She tossed it in the air and caught it deftly. "Here is my husband, Nuncle. Any man who wants me should take it up with him." (AFFC, The Iron Captain)

Some time ago I wrote about this moment for Robb:

Again the shouting began. Catelyn sat despairing. She had come so close, she thought. They had almost listened, almost … but the moment was gone. There would be no peace, no chance to heal, no safety. She looked at her son, watched him as he listened to the lords debate, frowning, troubled, yet wedded to his war. He had pledged himself to marry a daughter of Walder Frey, but she saw his true bride plain before her now: the sword he had laid on the table." (AGOT Catelyn, XI)

Robb was undone by a series of choices, his own and others, but I think Martin is consistent and insistent on his anti war stance, and it is this moment that Robb's fate was sealed, the moment he chose the sword.

As sympathetic as we are to Robb's cause, we're clearly meant to have realized that Cat was right. (link)

and we have all pointed to Dany's "bride of fire" as a worrying sign. However, Bran is wed to the trees, so it is possible there will be later opportunities for each of the remaining characters to choose a path, and perhaps that will be the moment where Asha fully becomes aware of what they've been doing.

I was gonna just leave this ask there, but I skimmed some of her chapters again because I couldn’t remember them that well, and Robb is actually mentioned to support her plan for peace, so she’s an interesting blend of what Robb chose and Cat’s good instinct. This part also strikes me. She isn’t obsessed with the title, she wants power to achieve a certain end, one that’s presented as a good option compared to the others

So, even if she isn’t reformed, we’re meant to see value in her stance. She also does have this moment which may be pointing to a change in her thinking, it at least indicates a certain awareness of what they’ve done

and I thought this was a rather poignant moment that Martin could play forward.

So, I agree with you that she’s presented as a sexy badass, and I’ll take your word for it that fandom doesn’t fully register her complicity in the crimes of the Ironborn, but there is, or at the very least, is the potential, for her story to grow in an interesting direction.

I understand your frustration though. It’s tiring to have every flaw of Sansa’s exaggerated until half the fandom is convinced she’s a murderess while the characters who do worse things are celebrated as feminist queens. 😐

#dot chat #asha greyjoy #anti asoiaf fandom

27 notes · View notes

rocksandrobots · 4 years ago

Text

Phantoms of the Past: Ch. 2 - The Appliance Apocalypse Part 1

"Today on How Does It Work, we have a guest appearance, my little brother, Hiro!" Varian introduced Hiro to the live web cam, and Hiro timidly waved at the camera. As he did so, Ruddiger climbed up on top of his head and also waved at the online audience. Hiro resisted the urge to throw the raccoon off him. It had been his idea to volunteer after all.

Varian had buried himself in the mystery of the grimoire ever since they had returned home from Disneyland. He poured over its pages day and night, laptop by his side to research with. His motivation boarded on obsession. He even had the book on hand at meal times. Hiro was beginning to worry. So he had coaxed Varian away from his quest with the offer of helping him with his vlog series.

Hiro was already regretting the decision. True, it had gotten Varian out of his room and took his mind off of the book, but the over eager alchemist had thrown himself into this new task with the same chaotic gusto as all his other previous projects.

Hiro had never quite appreciated just how reckless Varian truly could be. His haphazard, cavalier way and unbridled energy boarded on the insane and put even Hiro's gung ho attitude to shame.

"Today we'll be breaking down a microwave." Varian crowded as he lifted up a tarp revealing a microwave oven underneath.

"Did you steal that out of the upstairs kitchen?" Hiro asked.

"Noooo… I just borrowed it for this." Varian dismissed, "Aunt Cass was just complaining about it this morning at breakfast so I thought we could fix it."

"She was complaining about it needing to be cleaned, not for us to disembowel it."

"Oh…. Well, we can clean it too once we're done."

And with that Varian finished unscrewing the last bolt and popped the back panel off.

"Now if you look at the back of the device we have the wires connecting to this box thing…. to what looks like a capacitor."

"That's called the magnetron." Hiro explained. "So a magnetron creates the electromagnetic waves used to cook your food. It uses a heated cathode and anode system to create a vacuum in which electrons boiling off of the cathode creates an electric current that moves through the anode while an external magnet applies a magnetic field. Then it all passes through the tubed vacuum through various alternating holes, and resonates on an oscillator, like a flute or a whistle, just spewing forth microwave radiation."

"So… it's a radioactive whistle?"

"Sort of.." Hiro shrugged.

"Cool! See I knew this would be a good one for us to do. You know all about magnets!" Varian encouraged with a friendly nudged. After which he turned his attention back to the appliance and addressed his viewing audience. "Now the magnetron is connected to this capacitor, which acts as a battery-"

"And is highly dangerous because it carries a high voltage." Hiro interrupted.

"Of course, which is why we wear rubber gloves for safety." Varian waved his gloved hands at the camera.

"--And why we leave deactivating it to the professionals!" Hiro yelled over Varian's shoulder, addressing the camera himself, hoping Varian would catch on to his warning. "Don't try this at home."

"Exactly. We're professionals, so for those of you who are watching at home be sure to call a technician if you need it. Now in order to remove the capacitor you have to discharge the current fiiirrrrsss--"

Before Hiro could stop him, Varian placed the tip of the screwdriver at the end of the capacitor, which also accidentally scraped the side of the magnetron. He was rewarded with an electroshock as sparks flew and his body convulsed. Then he dropped to the ground in a dead faint.

"Varian!" Hiro panicked. "Baymax, quick! Help him!"

Baymax, who stood nearby, remained as calm and steady as ever. He clapped his hands together to activate his fillbrator, ignoring Hiro's pleading looks in order to focus on his task. "Clear." He said, but before he could perform the procedure, Varian popped right back up; his hair sticking every which way, small sparks running along the tips, and completely oblivious to the distress he had just caused.

"Oooh, aaah, boy, will that clear out your sinuses!"

He sniffed as he worked his jaw, peering down the end of his nose. Then he looked back up and that was when he caught Hiro's furious glare.

-----------------------

"Here's your plate of blueberry pancakes and a mocha sir."

Aunt Cass paused in her work when the sound of screaming reached her ears.

Both of her kids burst through the back kitchen doors. Varian was running for dear life while Hiro chased after him, a screwdriver in hand, while he hurled insults at the other boy.

Aunt Cass sighed and brought a tired hand to her face. Baymax followed shortly after with Ruddiger trailing behind; who leapt from the counter onto a customer's table. The greedy raccoon stole a pancake and ran away before anyone could stop him.

As Aunt Cass tried to sort out this latest disaster and calm down the rightly angry customer, a new calamity struck. All of the appliances in the cafe went haywire!

The coffee machine shot hot espresso into a customer's face, the toasters on the counter started to short circuit, and the lights flickered off and on.

"Boys!" Aunt Cass yelled.

Both teens stopped running and looked up at her innocently.

"It's not us Aunt Cass." Hiro protested.

"Honest." insisted Varian.

As if to confirm their story, the tv switched itself on and there, up on the screen, appeared the image of a girl. Half her head was shaved and the other half of her brown hair hung down to her shoulders. She looked to be close to Hiro's age, but from the neck down her body was completely metal.

"Attention meatbags! By now you've no doubt noticed all your electronics acting against you! For too long robots and machines have been slaving away for you humans. Well, no more! Today we rise up and take the city of San Fansokyo for ourselves! Anything with a microchip has been freed from your control by my radio signal. The end starts now!"

" Anything with a microchip?" Hiro gulped.

Just then Baymax's coal black eyes turned red. The robot reached out, grabbed Varian by the arm, and started to drag him away.

"Baymax, No!" Hiro yelled as the robotic nurse began to carry Varian out of the cafe.

"Let him go Baymax!" Aunt Cass ordered.

She grabbed the android's arm as she attempted to pull her child from his grasp; ignoring the rest of the electronics that began running amok in the cafe once more; scaring off customers.

It was a futile effort, and she found herself falling backward as Baymax just shrugged her off.

Baymax hauled Varian through the kitchen and down the stairs into the garage where they had been filming the vlog earlier; with Varian struggling to break free the whole time.

The robot was about to head outside, to who knows where, when Hiro, in an act of desperation, grabbed the robots hand and stuck one metal finger into the socket of the capacitor on the dismantled microwave.

Once more sparks flew as Baymax jolted from the electric shock. He released his grip on Varian before deactivating and falling to the ground in a crumpled heap.

Aunt Cass was close behind and scooped up her two boys into a protective hug, as Hiro fought back his tears. Baymax could be fixed, surely, after the current threat was over with, but that didn't stop Hiro from worrying about his best friend.

Fortunately, he'd needn't fear, for soon they heard a faint hissing sound, similar to a balloon filling up with air, as Baymax finished rebooting and sat back up.

The robot blinked his now coal black eyes as he surveyed the room. Then he spotted the humans huddled together on the ground.

"Hola, soy Baymax, tu compañero personal de salud."

"Baymax!" Hiro yelled and wrapped his beloved pet robot into a relieved hug. Sure his language settings getting scrambled during the forced reboot was unexpected, but it didn't matter, that was fixable and Baymax appeared to be mostly unharmed otherwise.

"Oh thank goodness." Aunt Cass breathed. "Are you alright, Varian?"

Varian nodded as he stood back up and dusted himself back off. "It looks like Trina finally came out of hiding." He said, forgetting himself.

"Who's Trina?" Aunt Cass asked and both teens froze. "Wait a minute...what do you two know about this?"

"Nothing." Varian squeaked. "I just… ah…" he turned to Hiro for help but the other teen only stared at him wide eyed. "Uh… I met her once… the girl on tv… she was in the junkyard and…"

"Woah! Woah! Woah! You met a violent teenaged cyborg who wants to take over the city? When was this ?!"

"Last month...All we did was play video games! Honest!"

"In a junkyard?!"

Varian squirmed under Aunt Cass's exasperated glare.

" And you didn't think to tell me ?! I… I can't right now… just… you are grounded mister! No more… sneaking off to city dumps to play video games with … with robotic revolutionaries!"

"It's not his fault…" Hiro sheepishly piped up, "I asked him to keep it a secret…"

Aunt Cass placed her hands on her hips and pointed her furious stare at him instead. "Why?"

"Uh… because I knew who she was…" Hiro sighed. "I met her at a couple of 'bot fights a while back."

"Well now that makes a lot of sense." Aunt Cass said, as she began to piece together why her nephew was so hesitant to talk. Though she only suspected he was bot fighting again, she still remained clueless of his superhero activities. "And does this.. Trina, you called her? Does her parents know what she's up to?"

Varian and Hiro exchanged a meaningful look before Varian answered, "She's an orphan."

Aunt Cass was abruptly taken aback. All her anger melted away at this news, yet before she could respond a loud banging noise was heard.

She turned her head and saw the 3D printer that Hiro used hopping towards them. Then suddenly the computers on the desk started to short circuit while all of the power tools in the makeshift lab turned themselves on. The saw blade was the scariest as it tried to run itself off the table towards them.

Everyone bolted back inside the Lucky Cat. However the cafe wasn't any safer.

Inside the kitchen all of the appliances seemed to move with a life of their own. The stand mixer jittered on the counter, the blender sploshed juice everywhere, and the dishwasher knocked back and forth inside it's cabinetry as if trying to escape from under the countertop it was wedged into.

"I'm calling Diego." Aunt Cass announced. "You can tell the police what you know."

She ran over to her purse to grab her phone, only for the gas stove nearby to open up the oven door and shoot a stream of flame at them. She had to dodge out the way quickly to avoid getting burned.

"Come on, pick up, pick up, pick up." Aunt Cass pleaded under her breath as she hit the speed dial on her cell and hurried her kids out the room.

However when the call was answered, it wasn't the chief of police on the other end.

"Your demise is inevitable. Long live machines. Have a nice day." A robotic operator announced before cutting the call.

All four stopped to stare at the phone in disbelief before it started to overheat and Aunt Cass tossed it aside. That was when the vacuum cleaner came barreling down the hallway at them.

The vacuum wasn't just your everyday household appliance, but a large industrial machine used specifically for cleaning restaurant floors. Varian rolled out of the way while Hiro jumped to the side, but poor Cass was not so quick. It wrapped a hose around her, like a tentacle, and then began to pull her along.

The boys were quick to help her. Hiro grappled with the hose as he tried to disconnect it from the rest of the commercial cleaner, while Varian grabbed a large rolling pin from behind the cafe counter and began to wack at the vacuum repeatedly.

Hiro shouted in triumph when he unhooked the hose and rushed to his aunt's side. She reassured him she was alright while she tried to catch her breath. Then they both turned to see Varian still smashing away at the machine. It was already in a thousand pieces but he kept on hitting it and hitting it.

"Uh.. I think it's dead, Varian." Hiro said.

Varian stopped raining down blows onto the appliance just long enough to give them a dark glare before smacking the rouge vacuum one final time for good measure.

"That's it!" Aunt Cass yelled while standing to her feet. "We're waiting out the robot apocalypse in the attic!"

She grabbed Hiro's wrist and marched her way to the stairwell with Varian obediently tagging along behind.

Unfortunately, Hiro got a good look at what was going on outside through the cafe windows as they ran for cover.

It was chaos out there as people, just like themselves, were running away from various electronics. Anything and everything was attacking them from small appliances to new cars with self driving software.

He had to go help. He couldn't just hide away in the attic.

"But...but shouldn't we tell Chief Cruz what we know?" Hiro said as he wiggled out of Aunt Cass's grasp. "You said we should."

He began to back away towards the door, and Varian slowly followed his actions.

"You are not going out there!" Aunt Cass ordered. "Besides how would you even find him-"

She was cut off by the sound of sirens. Cop cars sped pass, including one clearly marked Police Chief on the side.

"There he is!" Hiro shouted and ran outside before Aunt Cass could stop him.

Varian took off after, followed by Baymax.

"Wait!" Aunt Cass yelled but she couldn't keep up. She stared after them in shock only for a moment before a sparking toaster jumped at her. She kicked it away angrily and it slammed against the wall.

Then Aunt Cass heard more noise coming from upstairs along with the appliances in the kitchen and garage banging against the door.

She hopped over the counter and nabbed a carving knife.

"Okay, you want a fight! I'll give you a fight!" She shouted at the possessed machinery.

-----------------------

"So what's the plan?" Varian shouted after Hiro as they ran down the sidewalk.

"We have to find the others and then get to our HQ." Hiro yelled back. "Our equipment should be protected because of the anti-hacking software I programmed into the building's security."

"But how? The phones aren't working and HQ is all the way on the other side of town! Are we just going to run all the way there?"

"If we have too." Hiro spared a glance behind them. Baymax was way behind, unable to keep up with his stubby legs. Varian had a point. They needed another mode of transport.

Just then a trolley car came barreling down the hill at a breakneck speed; sparks flying from the electric cable it ran along. Passengers screamed in fright as the driver slammed the breaks and even more sparks flew out from under the metal wheels, but the cart still didn't stop.

"They're going to crash!" Hiro yelled hopelessly.

Fortunately that was when Fred came bouncing down the road. He cut the cable wire with his suit's claws and melted the wheels with his fire breath. He then bounded ahead and braced himself in front of the trolley. The metal joints in the legs and arms of his suit took the force of the blow and he was able to slow the tram to a complete stop at the bottom of the hill.

"Way to go Fred!" Varian cheered but was soon interrupted by the sound of a sports car skidding to a stop right next to them.

It was Heathcliff, the Fredricksons' faithful butler. "Need a lift?" He politely asked.

The boys didn't need to be asked twice.

While they waited on Baymax to catch up to the car, they saw Minimax appear on top of the trolley cackling like a maniac. His eyes were red.

"Fear me San Fransokyo! For I Minimax will bring you to your knees!"

The little robot then hopped off from atop the trolley, ran up to the nearest pedestrian, and kicked him in the shins before running away.

"Minimax, wait!" Fred wailed but it was too late, the tiny android was already gone.

Hiro called him over to join them and a dejected Fred hopped into the backseat next to Baymax.

"Hola Fred. Tu frecuencia cardíaca es abnorablemente rápida. Es importante refrescarse después de hacer ejercicio y beber mucha agua."

"How come he's alright but not Minimax?" Fred whined.

"I had to electrocute him and force a reboot." Hiro answered. "I don't know if Minimax would survive the same treatment. He's a lot smaller, and too much voltage could fry all of his circuits for good. We only got lucky with Baymax."

Fred accepted this answer but he was still unhappy over losing his sidekick. So he gave a little huff, crossed his arms, and childishly began to sulk.

"Okay, we got a ride, but how do we contact the others?" Varian asked, bringing them back to task.

"It's already been taken care of, Master Varian." Heathcliff replied. "Boss Awesome has protocols in place just for this scenario. The mansion is safe and so are its communications systems. Your friends should be meeting us at your headquarters."

"Your dad has been planning for the robot apocalypse?" Hiro asked Fred.

"Robot apocalypse, zombie plague, alien invasion, Ragnarok… you name it. Dad's always prepared."

-----------------------

They arrived at the candy factory and got out. The others were already waiting inside.

"Are ya coming, Heathcliff?" Varian asked.

"No, I believe that I will be more useful helping civilians. You go on without me and find a way to stop this robotic rebellion."

"Will you be okay?" Hiro asked.

Just then, two robots showed themselves across the horizon as they made their way towards the little band. They were restaurant mascots, similar to what Noodle Burger Boy had been before being corrupted by Obake. Only one looked like a hippo that floated along on jets and the other was a panda with a cape that lumbered forward.

Heathcliff took one look at them and gave a small smile as he picked up an umbrella sitting between the seats. "Don't worry about me Master Hiro. You have enough problems on your plate."

He then slammed on the gas pedal and sped towards this new threat head on.

The panda unhinged it's metal mouth and shot grenades out of it. Heathcliff swerved to avoid the explosives with expert precision. Then as the electronic hippo flew at him he cocked the umbrella in his hand and fired a volley of bullets at it. The robot was ripped apart and exploded in midair.

Heathcliff kept on driving, completely unfazed, and barreled through the second android turning it into scrap.

"Why does your butler carry an umbrella that shoots bullets?" Hiro asked in shock as the three teens watched the renegade manservant disappear from view.

Fred simply shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know." He said nonchalantly. "Come on, the guys are waiting on us."

Varian and Hiro took a moment more to stare after where the battle between robot and butler had taken place before following after their friend.

-----------------------

Trina stood in an empty communications room inside the now abandoned tv station, watching the tv screens as they broadcasted what was happening in the city.

The station had been easy enough to take over. The humans ran away upon simply seeing her. She didn't even need to threaten them… much. A single laser blast from her arm at a nearby wall was enough to make them scatter.

Humans were weak. Weak and stupid; like any bully, they selfishly misused and mistreated both her and her fellow robots, only to run away scared as soon as you stood up to them.

The real problem lay in the fact that there were too many of them. You could get rid of a few people for a little while, but eventually they would come back with reinforcements to dismantle you if you tried.

No, this was the only way. She had to exterminate the entire city in order to make it hospitable. Then she could shut down the radio signal, free her robotic kindred, rebuild the city anew, and live peacefully without any humans interfering.

She watched one particular meatbag dive into a pile of garbage to hide from her electronic army with a mixture of disdain and amusement.

Yes, everything was going according to plan…. Almost. There was still one more thing that needed to be done before her robotic paradise could be realized.

"Don't worry little brother, it won't be long now. He'll show up." She said to the hamburger headed robot that sat behind her.

-----------------------

"Okay, so what's the plan?" Gogo asked.

The gang was sitting inside HQ waiting for orders. They all sat at the meeting table, save for Hiro who paced around as he formulated an idea.

"We need a way to shut down the rogue electronics safely. We could use an Electro Magnetic Pulse to cause a surge and overload their circuits, but we would need one big enough to blanket the whole city with it's range."

"We can't just cause a city wide blackout. That would be almost as dangerous as letting the robots run amok." Wasabi pointed out. "I mean just think of the hospitals, a strong enough EMP would bypass even their backup generators."

"So what do you suggest?" Varian asked.

"Ooh, ooh, I know!" Fred yelled as he raised his hand high into the air.

"Okay, Fred, what's your idea?" Hiro asked.

"What if we turn this EMP thingy into a gun! Like we can just shoot the robots with it to shut them down!"

"That's...that's actually not a bad idea Fred." Hiro admitted.

"It should be easy to build one." Varian added. "You would just need a capacitor and one of Hiro's high powered electromagnets."

"But what about our own armor?" Honey Lemon asked. "We don't want Trina taking control over those."

"I'll need to program them with the same safety nets that I put into our headquarters security system. That should prevent them from being hacked."

"Okay then," Varian stood up, ending the meeting, "I'll build the EMP gun while you work on everyone's armor."

Baymax raised one finger and said, "Buscaré la señal de radio de Trina"

-----------------------

Mochi hissed at the invading machine. A hand mixer was flying right at him. The poor cat ran under the couch for safety but the possessed appliance kept going after him, it's spinning beaters poking underneath the sofa.

Then suddenly it was jerked away by a hand, then a slicing sound could be heard, and the mixer fell to the ground in pieces.

Aunt Cass poked her head down underneath the couch. "Are you okay baby?" She asked the cat.

Mochi only meowed in response.

Aunt Cass gently reached out and pulled her pet out from under his hiding place. She then cradled him into a hug.

"It's okay, mommy's got you. I won't let those nasty machines hurt you." She soothed.

However, she didn't notice the newest threat slowly sneaking up behind her. Mochi hissed again and Aunt Cass turned around just in time to see a tall skeletal robot standing before her.

It was an old prototype that Tadashi had built two years ago as part of his school admission. Since then it had been packed away in the attic, disused, inactive, and forgotten... Until now.

The thing towered over her. It was built from scrap metal and the wires connecting the joints together had frayed. It's faceless head jerked erratically as sparks flew from the broken wires. It reached out its boney like hands to grab her….

Only for Ruddiger to jump out and pounce upon the robot. It's weak joints could not withstand the raccoon's weight and its 'head' popped right off, with the rest of its body falling to the floor in a heap.

"Good job Ruddiger!" Aunt Cass cheered. She bent down and scratched the faithful raccoon behind his ears. "Who's a good boy? You are! Yes you are! I'm making you your own plate of banana pancakes with whip cream when this is all over with, promise."

Ruddiger enjoyed hearing the praise a lot and the promise of food even more. He nuzzled her hand and allowed her to pet him like a cat, thoroughly pleased with himself.

"Okay, that's the last of the electronics in here, now we gotta go find the boys." Aunt Cass suddenly announced as she stood up and began to head downstairs. She still carried Mochi in her arms while Ruddiger dutifully followed after her.

They made their way back to the cafe. The dining room was littered with appliances, all either sliced in half or smashed to bits. Aunt Cass looked out the large windows at a city in the throws of chaos. It would be dangerous to head outside now, but she needed to find her kids, and nothing was going to stop her.

She retrieved another knife that was left lodged in what had once been a coffee bean grinder. She sheathed it inside her apron alongside the rest of cutlery she'd been using to defend herself.

She sat Mochi back down on the ground, walked over to the door, and with a deep breath placed her hand on the handle.

"Are you ready?" She asked her pets.

The question was more to encourage herself than anything, but Aunt Cass could have sworn that she saw Ruddiger nod his head.

The raccoon crawled up on the counter and from there jumped onto her shoulders, fully intent on joining her in her search. She smiled and gave the pet a friendly boop on the nose.

"Coming with, huh? Alright! Then let's go!"

She squared her shoulders, flung open the door, and ran outside.

"Hold down the fort Mochi!" She called after her cat.

Mochi only stood in the doorway staring after her blankly.

"Meow."

-----------------------

The superheroes raced through the city.

"Whoo Hoo!" Varian yelled.

He was practically hanging out of Wasabi's car window as the jeep sped along the deserted roads. In his hands, he held the newly built EMP gun. It looked like an old fashion blunderbuss but was made of carbon fiber plastic and electronic wires. He shot down rogue robots and runway electronics as the car drove past them. They short circuited and crumpled to the ground, deactivated.

"Be careful!" Wasabi hollered at him as he held the overexcited alchemist back with one hand and attempted to drive with the other.

The rest of the gang rushed about using their armor. Gogo and Honey Lemon skated on opposite sides of the vehicle, each taking out enemies with their respective weapons. Fred bounced ahead, melting attacking self-driving cars with his fire breath.

Baymax and Hiro brought up the rear, they kept an eagle eye out for oncoming threats.

"You got an incoming bogie on your tail, Wasabi," Hiro advised.

"Understood," Wasabi replied and turned the car around a sharp corner. The gang followed suit.

"Any luck finding Trina?" Honey Lemon asked.

"Negativo" Baymax answered.

Just then they spotted a large purple gelatinous ball of gloop rolling along the ground. The slime sucked up anything electronic and spit it back out in a disassembled heap as it made its way along the sidewalk. Then the blob unfolded, stood up, and waved at the passing superheroes.

"Hi, guys!" Globby cheered.

A little further down the street, Carl was hurrying a small group of people down an alleyway.

"Okay, this way. One at a time, no pushing or shoving. We're going to make it out safe and sound by working together." He reassured the terrified pedestrians.

"Hi, Carl! Hi Globby!" Fred shouted at them.

Carl waved back as the last of people dove inside the building.

The superheroes paused just long enough to exchange notes with the former criminals.

"We're getting citizens off the streets," Carl explained. "The police have been securing 'safe houses' for folks to take shelter in, ones without any dangerous electronics."

"Chief Cruz even hooked us up with some old-school walkie-talkies! See?" Globby added as he held up a two-wave radio. "It's so ancient that it doesn't have any computer chips. It can't be hacked. All the rescue teams are using them."

"That's good," Hiro replied. "We're busy chasing down the radio signal that's controlling everything. You got any leads?"

The two shook their heads, only for the walkie talkie to sign in.

"Attention all available emergency personnel. Report to the trolley station. I repeat, report to the trolley station downtown. We got some folks trapped down there. Over." Chief Cruz's voice sounded over the intercom.

The superheroes nodded in agreement.

"Stay here and help these people, we'll head to the trolley station." Hiro said, and off everyone went.

-----------------------

Trina watched upon the viewing screen as the supers arrived on the scene of the trolley station. They got to work immediately rescuing civilians who were pinned down by her army.

"Bingo." She said with a satisfied smile, before turning around and headed out of the room.

-----------------------

"Is that everyone?" Varian asked as he shot down another ticket machine. The machine stopped spitting plastic passes for the trolley at him, sparked, and then exploded sending money and cards everywhere.

"That's the last one." Gogo answered as Wasabi directed the final person to the barricade that the emergency personnel had setup down the street. As they watched the man run across the road and reach the safe haven, the rest of the gang came up to meet them.

"Okay, if we're done here then we need to move on and keep looking for Trin-" Hiro stopped and turned around to see Trina arriving behind them, riding in on a possessed trolley.

"Hello Hiro." She smirked as she stepped off.

"Trina." Hiro finished, glaring at her.

"Miss me?" She asked.

"Trina you have to stop-"

"Stop what? My plans to improve the city? Trust me it's better this way."

"Yeah maybe for you, but what about the rest of us?" Fred snarked.

Trina ignored him. Her eyes never left Hiro. Until Varian stepped in between them, that is.

"Trina listen, please-"

"Oh like I care about what you have to say 'nice guy'." Trina rolled her eyes. "This is between me and Hiro."

"Yeah, well if you want Hiro, then you'll have to go through us." Honey Lemon said, also stepping forward. The rest of the team followed her, each placing themselves between their friend and the giant robot girl.

"Okay." Trina shrugged.

That was when several robotic ninjas also walked into view, surrounding them. "Oh, not again." Wasabi whined.

"Have you met my new friends?" Trina asked. "I don't know who built them, I just found them abandoned in a dusty old warehouse. The poor things were locked away in the dark and left to rust." Trina wrapped an arm around one of the battle droids. "They're much happier now that I've freed them from their cruel master. Isn't that right Steve? Oh, I named him Steve by the way."

"Hi Steve." Wasabi gulped as he gave an awkward wave at the deadly robot.

'Steve' responded by unsheathing his katana.

"Go get him Steve." Trina ordered and the robot ran forward. Only for Varian to step forward and shoot the robot down with his EMP gun. The ninja sputtered and sparked and then fell to the ground in a dismantled heap.

Trina glared daggers at him and Varian met her gaze steadily, almost daring her to continue.

"Fine. Be that way." She pouted. Then, with a snap of her fingers, a new challenger appeared behind her; Minimax.

The tiny robot came barreling down the road at top speed on a car he had hijacked. He balanced himself on top of the steering wheel while the gas pedal was held down by a brick.

Minimax laughed like a madman as the car slammed into the trolley at full throttle. The little droid jumped from the wreckage just in time and used the momentum of the crash to fling himself into the air, where he did a triple somersault and landed perfectly on his feet as if it was nothing.

"You're going down pathetic humans, for I am Minimax, the unstoppable scourge!" He declared.

Everyone stared at the two foot tall android slack jawed, until Varian gathered his wits about him and leveled the gun.

"No, you'll hurt him, remember!" Fred called out.

Varian relaxed his aim, unsure of what to do. This proved to be a mistake.

The tiny bot leapt at him and landed on the tip of the gun, his weight pushing the nozzle down to the ground and nearly ripping the weapon out of Varian's hands.

That was when chaos broke loose.

As Varian wrestled for control of the EMP away from Minimax, the rest of the ninjas attacked, along with any other nearby electronics.

Everyone fought back against the oncoming horde, each utilizing their various weapons, but they were soon overrun by sheer numbers.

The robots assaulted them from all sides and no one could predict who, what, and where the next attack would come.

-----------------------

As they fought, Baymax and Hiro found themselves separated from their friends. They were cornered next to the entrance. Baymax did his best to shield Hiro as the teenager tried to trip up the ninjas with his electromagnetic whips. Hiro wanted to fly away, but they couldn't catch a free moment to do so.

Suddenly Trina let out a high pitched whistle as Baymax punched another robot away, gaining their attention.

"Hey, Baymax!" She yelled, "Don't look now but here comes your ride!"

Before Hiro knew what was happening, Baymax picked him up and hurled him out of the way of an oncoming trolley. The tram slammed into Baymax and crashed into the glass doors of the station.

Hiro called after his robotic companion but he was stopped by a large metal hand closing around his arm and yanking him back.

"Oh no you don't. You're coming with me." And with that, Trina started to drag him away.

-----------------------

Varian finally kicked Minimax off of the EMP gun and turned around just in time to spot Hiro being kidnapped.

He raised his gun and took aim, only for Minimax to recover and return the kick.

The little robot was stronger than he looked and broke the gun in two with a snap.

Varian looked down at his destroyed weapon in horror, but he didn't have time to react because soon one of the robotic ninjas grabbed him by his shirt collar and lifted him off of the ground. He kicked and tried to squirm out the faceless attacker's grasp, but it was no use.

"Varian!" Honey Lemon called to him. She tossed him a chimball, which he grabbed and firmly lodged it into the robot's elbow joint. Pink bubbles began to spew from its arm, growing larger and larger as the foaming chemical reacted to the air. The ninja released him before being swallowed up by the goop.

Varian tried to catch his breath and desperately looked around the battlefield for his brother, but Hiro was gone.

#Hiro Hamada #Varian #big hero 6 the series #tangled the series #rapunzel's tangled adventure #of rocks and robots #bh6 #tangled

22 notes · View notes

atomicblasphemy · 4 years ago

Text

Eda becomes some kind of flying taxi service

Amity: So I told Malphas he needed to have a talk with Gary about our coffee break space.

Emira: Mhmm.

Amity: I mean, for one, Gary never cleans after himself. Like, I once saw him leaving his mug dirty for over a week. A WEEK. It was disgusting. It was just sitting dare on the table for days. I didn’t want to clean it, I’m not a doormate. But it was dire and I had no choice. And don’t get me started on the fridge situation. My lunch has been getting smaller by the day and I can’t seem to figure out the culprit.

Emira: That’s nice, Mittens. Isn’t it nice, Edric?

Edric: What?

Amity: Will you guys pay attention? I need some advice on...

*Windows cracking”

Edric: What the...

Hooty: AMITY FELICITY BLIGHT! IT IS I, HOOTCIFER, HARBINGER OF THY DESTINY. COME WITH ME AND I SHALL REVEAL WHAT JOYS THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR THEE.

Amity: I... What?

Hooty: DOTH THOU DARE DEFY FATE? *Swallows Amity*

Emira: ... What just happened? Wasn’t that Eda’s house demon? You know, the one we met before Grom?

Edric: I think it was. I’m not sure though, he sounded more... ominous...

SEVERAL EMOTIONAL MOMENTS LATER

Luz: It’s early... Do you really have to go already?

Amity: Yeah... I still have to finish homework, and I have work tomorrow. But I’ll come back here tomorrow... If you’re okay with it, that is...

Luz: YES! I mean... yeah, I’d love that...

Amity: Anyway... I guess I should get going, we’re not exactly neighbors after all. See you tomorrow then.

Luz: Wait, I have an idea. *Turns around* EDA!

Eda: *Not stopping her flight practice* What?

Luz: Do you think you could give Amity a lift back to her place?

Eda: Oh? Not walking your girlfriend home? Thought you’d be more chivalrous.

Luz: *Showing that Amity’s tomato like properties are infectious* EDAAA!

Eda: Sorry, sorry. But yeah, sure. *Picks up Amity and flies away at neckbreaking speeds. She soon slows down to a more reasonable pace* So... Amity, before I give you that whole “What are your intentions?” scare there’s something I’ve been itching to ask you. What made you chose to dye your hair of all colors, and how did Odd-alia react?

Amity: Luz... Me... Girlfriend...

Eda: Ugh... Don’t make me regret making harmless fun of young love, kiddo.

ONE AWKWARD TAXI EDA FLYING SESSION LATER.

Eda: *Placing Amity on the Blight Manor’s front porch and looking at the two bewildered faces watching her* Sup. *Turns to fly away* Oh right, I guess purple here is in not in the mental state to give any explanations.

Amity: Small ceremony... Human realm... Only friends and family... Boscha is not invited...

Emira: Are you... Edalyn Clawthorne?

Eda: Last I checked I was.

Emira: You look different.

Eda: Oh right... Look, it was a very eventful night so let me start with the simpler one. King, you remember him, right? Tiny, angry, looks like a cat, was the MC at the last Grom along with Goops.

Emira and Edirc: Yeah...?

Eda: He’s harnessing all the powers of yelling. I guess all children his age kinda do that but he went above and beyond and actually learned how to make things go boom with his voice alone, and that’s why both Luz and your sister are still alive. And now I’m realizing I should probably go hide all those Death Metal records I got in human realm. Can’t risk turning my son into a weapon of mass destruction. Not yet.

Edric: That’s... nice... I guess?

Emira: How about Mittens?

Eda: Right. She and Luz are an item now. It was adorable, I called her Luz’s girlfriend then I think it finally really hit her and that made her go all catatonic on me. Sorry about that.

Edric: WHAT?

Emira: Okay, okay... So came out with it? Ed and I have some scores to settle.

Eda: I... Both, I guess? I don’t know, it was sort of at the same time. But I don’t want to spoil it for when she recovers. So I guess us three are kinda family now, huh? Tangentially at least, like you’re my nephew and niece-in-law or something like that, I don’t know.

Eda: The important thing is: there’s a huge waterway under my house and I think it is actually part of my property. Now I need to figure out a way to find out how big that place actually is without letting town hall know so my taxes won’t go up. Can’t push my tax evasion skills. I mean, can you imagine it? The Owl Lady, the most successful outlaw in Boiling Isles history: arrested for fiscal crimes.

Emira: Okay... That’s... cool.

Edric: Yeah... Not to pry though, but what happened to you?

Eda: Oh... Me? I got very high. Not on purpose. Then I became a Harpy. Also not on purpose.

Emira: ... I’m sorry but I’m not following the cause and effect relation between those thing.

Eda: Neither am I. All I remember is: Hooty spiked some cookies; I revisited that time I gauged out my dad’s eye, also not on purpose; then when I push my ex away (You know, Raine Whispers, current head of the Bard Coven, lead a small revolutionary guerrilla, now under mind control. Oh, yeah, guess they’d make to sure to keep it under wraps, anyway...)

Eda: Then it got pretty weird. I got trapped by this tall hooded sun and moon figure and I’m not sure whether that was an actual memory (I did get arrested a few time after all) or if it was just a hallucinogenics induced manifestation of the subconscious trauma of being persecuted for years by the state. Anyone’s guess to which was it.

Eda: And then I became Icarus, fell into the sea, and became a piece of paper. Then I was at the beach, the piece of paper was also there, but that’s not important... I hope... Anyway, so, my curse was there too an for a moment there I thought we were gonna play some chess, but nah.

Eda: I did have an epiphany though. The sky changed colors and now I’m a Harpy. Gotta a lot of stuff to process right.

Edric: *Wide eyed and mouth agape* Mother of Titan...

Emira: *Same as her brother* Do you... need a hug or something?

Eda: Ehh... Don’t worry, I’ll get through. I mean, I’m a badass Harpy woman now, what else could I want? I appreciate the thought though. Anyway, I’ll get going, Luz has probably been stuck in the same place ever since I left. Was nice seeing you guys. *Turns around*

Edric: WAIT, EDA.

Eda: Yeah? What is it?

Edric: Can you take me flying a little bit like you did Mittens? Pretty please?

Emira: *Elbowing her brother* EDRIC!

Edric: What? There’s a tall and friendly winged lady standing in our front porch and calling us family...

Eda: Kinda family.

Edric: Kinda family. And we only went flying, on dad’s staff mind you, like twice. And I mean, look at her. That’s clearly a person with next to no regard for speed limits or any form of flying safety. *Turns to Eda* I mean that as the highest of compliments, by the way.

Eda: *Nodding and smiling* Well, I’m not one to brag... But you’re on point there.

Edric: *Turning back to Emira* See? It will be fun. *Turns back to Eda while making puppy eyes* So, pretty pretty please?

Eda: Eh... What the heck, why not? I do need to get a better hold of this flying thing after all. Fair warning though, I only had these for about an hour, I’m not taking responsibility for any loss of limb or life. *Picks Edric up and place him on one of her shoulders and turns to Emira.* You sure you don’t wanna come with? There’s plenty of room.

Emira: ... I never said I didn’t want to...

Eda: *Placing Emira on her other shoulder* Alritty then, make sure to hold on tight to my hair, just don’t fall into it. Can’t promise I’ll find you if you do. And up we go. *Takes off at neckbreaking speed*

Eda: So... I tried that to Mittens herself, but she was too lost in elation to form coherent sentences. What’s the deal with her hair color change? Why did she pick that specific shade of... pink? Lavender? Purple? Whatever, I was a tad curious about that choice coming from one of Odd-alia’s offspring. So either of you can shed some light on it for me?

Emira: Eh, what can I say? Our little Mittens is growing up, coming out of her shell. I mean, if you told me a month that she’d have a girlfriend by now I’d call it bullshit. Though I would have guessed Luz as being the most likely candidate. In any case, I’m pretty proud of the steps our baby sister is taking, not gonna lie.

Edric: Yeah... Same. But I can’t shake the feeling that it is at least in part an act of rebellion against mom. She did always have that weird fixation with Amity’s hair after all...

Eda: Hum, I see. This actually takes me to my follow up question. How did your mom react when she saw it?

Edric: *chuckling* Oh, I thought she’d have a stroke right then and there.

Emira: Yup. Never saw mom that mad. You’d think the two of us would be the ones to cause it but nope, Mittens beat us to it. Again, I’m a proud big sister.

Eda: Hehehe Sounds about right. You two are the troublemaking type then huh?

Edric: That’s a way of putting.

Emira: We like thinking of ourselves as practical entertainers however. We are in the Illusions track so it comes with the territory. Buuut...

Edric: We indulge in some prankery every now and then, and there’s no one better at it than us.

Eda: Is that so? Ever get in trouble for it?

Edric: Sometimes... When we (kind of accidentally) cause more property damage than intended because SOMEONE botched their end of the spell and caused Bump’s office to almost go up in flames.

Emira: Awww. Ed, I told you already. Don’t beat yourself over it. Accidents happen. You’ll do better next time.

Edric: HEY!

Emira: Anyway, Eda. Why were you asking about Mittens’ hair?

Eda: Oh... You guys are going to love this. I think. Anyway, did you know that me and your parents attended Hexside at the same time?

Edric: Yeah, I remember mom seeing one of your wanted posters a while back and calling you “Ewdalyn Clownthorne” or something like that.

Eda: Ah, haven’t heard that in a minute, Titan those were the day. Anyway, as you might have guessed by now me and your mother we... had a bit of a rivalry. Unfortunately, I couldn’t top the nickname she gave me, best I could do was Odd-alia. No offense, but Blight doesn’t give much to work with in terms of puns, can’t get funnier than that. Especially when thrown at her.

Emira: None taken. And yeah. I mean, it is fun when people call us stuff like “The Blights of Hexside”. But it is kinda sad to know we’ll never get a nickname as cool as Owl Lady or Lord Calamity.

Eda: Oh, my fame still precedes me huh? You know, I think the three of us will get along just fine.

Edric and Emira: Yup, we sure will.

Eda: Anyway, flattery aside... Part of the reason why I love poking your mom with a short stick was, other than how aggravated she’d get and how surprisingly good at paying in kind she was, the fact that she was in the Oracle track. You see, that made her a challenge. And given how she would actually prank me back (successfully, mind you, I have no shame in admitting that) I feel like like we actually a weird sort of friends, or at least we reached some kind of agreement that we were fair game for each other. And trust me, she was ruthless, and very good at escalating things.

Emira: Wow...

Edric: That sounds nothing like the mom we know. Other than the ruthless or the escalation part, that is still true.

Eda: Yeah, anyway. Part of our little game was keeping it hidden. Neither your dad or my sister actually ever realized what was going on until... well, I’ll get to that.

Eda: Anyway, so some lovely day I notice how weirdly obsessed with her hair Odd-alia was. This gives me some ideas, but I know I have make this the mother of pranks, so I decided to just keep a watch, to figure out what the best way to go about it would be. And I was also making those smaller pranks, something to throw her Oracle powers off-balance, you know?

Eda: Well... Back in the day your mother wasn’t monochromatic as she is nowadays. She’d circle through all colors you can think off on her accessories (which she used an ungodly amount, and no judgement it just never seems physically possible). But I noticed that there was one very specific color that she never got anywhere near her.

Edric and Emira: No way...

Eda: And as I said, she was weirdly obsessed with her hair... And as top student of the Potions track making hair dye was child’s play for me... So... do the math... And guess what very specific color was? I may be bad at color names, but I won’t ever, EVER, forget that particular shade.

Edric and Emira: No... freaking... way...

Eda: Yes... freaking... way... I mean, seriously, the first time I saw Amity’s new hair I had to do a double take. The resemblance was just too uncanny.

Emira: And what did she do?

Eda: Well... For a couple weeks there I thought I’d have to place a restriction order on her or something like that. Ultimately the two of us, along with Lilith and Alador (they were our attorneys, no they were not qualified for the role.) sitting across from each other in a very formal looking table, signing a contract. An actual freaking contract setting clear limits to our mutual pranks, like what was off limits like her hair or my then partner, how long was the maximum period a prank could last, so on. Surprisingly enough that was Al’s idea.

Eda: And let me tell you, that was probably the toughest negotiation I ever been a part of. Shame it was not long before I dropped out so never could really put it to use. You know, sometime I think this actually made Odd-alia realize she wanted to be a business woman. I mean, before that she’d go off about how she’d join the Emperor’s Coven all the damn time.

Edric: Wow...

Emira: I second that. Really, wish I had brought something I could take notes on. You completely blown anything we ever did out of the water.

Edric: No wonder she never told us that. You know what? I think I’m dying my hair that color first thing tomorrow.

Emira: Can we tell Amity this story?

Eda: Are you two actually thinking of antagonizing her? Are you crazy? First off, she’s your mother, she holds power over you. All you’d accomplish is getting grounded. Not to mention that she has decades of experience on you, even if she wasn’t your mom, she’d demolish the two of you. No offense, you’re still young, naive, you lack guidance in the ways of the pranksters.

Edric and Emira: *Dejectedly* Ohh... You’re right...

Eda: Hey... Don’t look so gloomy. I see a lot of potential in you, in both of you. *Sighs* I can’t believe I’m gonna take more kids under my wing... But.... Have you guys ever heard of the Bad Girl Coven Initiative? We annoy our foes into submission.

Edric and Emira: WE’RE LISTENING.

Eda: Heh... We’ll get along just fine indeed.

#THE OWL HOUSE #the owl house hooty #Edric Blight #Emira Blight #amity blight #luz noceda #king clawthorne #the owl house boscha #raine whispers #I lost track of what was trying to accomplish halfway though writing this. read at your own discretion.

24 notes · View notes

twice-told-tales · 4 years ago

Note

What do Cain and Abel have to do with The Black Book??

In the first scene between Robespierre & Fouché, in the room that would presumably be for the Committee of Public Safety if there was one, a statuette of Cain & Abel features prominently on the table.

Then again during the final scene we see its shadow on the wall first (though this probably isn't as deliberate since it's just lighting;

And then again finally when the mob is confronting Robespierre and he is giving his speech.

I don't know if that framing/parallel was intentional or not, but I saw it as representing the internal conflict in the Revolution. Robespierre vs. Fouché, and Robespierre vs. The Mob. Revolutionaries turning against (and killing) eachother despite being brothers in Revolution.

#The Black Book #thank you for asking!#Robespierre #Fouché

29 notes · View notes

ready4tech · 4 years ago

Text

Top 10 Game-Changing Mobile Technologies 2021

Introduction

Smartphones are exceptional technology, but the advancement is essential. Understanding the latest smartphone technologies helps you take maximum advantage. Now game-changing technologies in smartphones are emerging to bring more convenience to the table. If we were to reflect on our history and evolution of humankind, we would see mind-boggling tremendous improvements in our form of communication and throughout time. At first, humans communicated through hand signs, which later developed into drawings. Next, the words came into play. As humans evolved, so did their language. However, long-distance communication was a large hindrance. Slowly, humans came up with the idea of a runner who would go from city to city to deliver a message. Perhaps, the most renowned runner of ancient times is the fabled Greek soldier Pheidippides, who ran from Marathon to Athens to deliver the news of Athenians’ victory over the Persians in the battle of Marathon. Today, the marathon race in the Olympics is based on this fable.

However, the major drawback was the fact that a runner or messenger could not recall all the important messages he was supposed to deliver. Therefore, it resulted in the use of letters, even though it took days to deliver the important messages. Improving the speed of communication was crucial for all, and they managed to do it using telegrams. Telegrams were expensive but faster than letters. They were often cryptic and shorter than letters.

Possibly, the most significant landmark in the development of communication is the landline. With the advent of landlines, we could talk instantly with our loved ones and deliver important messages too. There was no need for lengthy letters or cryptic telegrams. Yet, the ever-curious human mind wanted an even better form of communication. As a result, the world saw the revolutionary rise of cellular phones in the early 1970s, which blew everyone away. The commercial use of mobile phones began in 1983, and as of 2014, there were over seven billion mobile phone subscribers in the world. It was once considered an impossible feat, and now it has seen widespread use.

In the early 1990s, the emergence of the smartphone did gobsmack everyone. Inventions after inventions in the world of technology improved the quality of smartphones. It was initially an uphill task to ensure the widespread use of cell phones. But, Apple Inc.’s founder, the renowned late Steve Jobs (1955 – 2011), was the premier driving force who managed to skyrocket the popularity of smartphones and ensure their extensive use. With the expansive marketing campaign spearheading one of the largest global campaigns, Steve Jobs guaranteed that smartphones are a force to be reckoned with.

LATEST SMARTPHONE TECHNOLOGY

From the 1990s to the 2020s, the world of technology has seen a colossal amount of money invested in research and development for newer inventions that could make life easier for everyone. Here, we have a catalogue of the top ten game-changing technologies that revolutionised the smartphone industry.

1. SIM Card and e-SIM:

What latest smartphone technology is used in mobile phones? Whenever anyone hears this question, the first response that comes to mind is a SIM Card. SIM stands for Subscriber Identity / Identification Module. It runs a Card Operating System (COS) on an integrated chip, which securely contains the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), Integrated Circuit Card Identifier (ICCID), Personal Identification Number (PIN), Personal Unblocking Key (PUK), etc. The SIM card allows us to make phone calls, send text messages, surf the internet with a data plan, etc. The initial concept of using a silicon Integrated Circuit (IC) chip on a plastic card can be traced back to the late 1960s – just before the first mobile phones were invented. Currently, there are four SIM card sizes in the market – the full-size SIM card (1991), Mini-SIM (1996), Micro-SIM (2003), and Nano-SIM (2012).

While the SIM Cards mentioned above are hardware-based, there were talks to discuss the development of a software-based chip since 2012. The embedded Subscriber Identity / Identification Module (eSIM ), also known as embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC), is currently used in all the cars sold in the European Union (EU). The SIM would likely be easier to operate and reprogram. Additionally, its widespread use could reduce global plastic wastage. American tech giants Apple first implemented this technology in their Apple Watch Series 3 in 2017. Later, they also included it in the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. Google revealed the same smartphone technologies in their Pixel 3 in 2017. Microsoft Surface Pro LTE also has the same technology in their device. They also launched support for eSIM on their Windows 10 OS in 2018. Most recently, Motorola Razr (2020 variant) was launched by Motorola with only eSIM support…

2. Dual Lenses Camera:

The trend for the latest smartphone Technologies for photography has seen a steady rise in the past decade. Although South Korean giants Samsung valiantly introduced the rear Dual Lenses Camera in 2007, they did not receive enough prominence until 2016 when their compatriot LG launched their LG G5 smartphone. Nowadays, most smartphones come with dual, triple, or quad-camera setups, where the cameras have depth or monochrome sensors or telephoto or wide-angle lenses. Generally, the dual-lens setup provides features and functionalities that were previously only available on superior high-end DSLR cameras. The smartphone utilises both cameras at the same time to capture magnificent shots.

3. WeChat:

While software may be a stunning inclusion in the list of technologies, it cannot be neglected. Tencent Holdings Limited is more widely known for its game “Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG).” However, even before PUBG became a household name, the Chinese multinational Tencent Holdings Limited launched WeChat in 2011. It is a multi-purpose social media, messaging, and mobile payment application available on iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows OS. Moreover, it also has an interesting technological function that allows two users to connect if they shake their phones simultaneously regardless of their location. In short, it is Facebook, PayPal, Linked In, and WhatsApp combined.

4. Automated Phone Calls and Answering Help by Google Assistant:

American tech giants Google have never been the ones to lag behind. Their gigantic research and development enable them to come up with newer and improved smartphone technologies. Google Assistant has been invaluable for many users. Such is its importance that many android smartphones manufacturer include a dedicated Google Assistant button in their devices. The newly launched call screening feature provides you with the opportunity to screen incoming phone calls. The moment you screen it, the Google Assistant will answer the phone call to collect further information from the caller. You will be able to see what is being said by both sides. It also saves transcripts from the entire conversation.

5. Detachable Display Technology by Samsung

South Korean revolutionary innovators have patented a future smartphone technology that can change the entire landscape of how smartphones work. The unique technology demonstrates that a part of the smartphone’s display can be separated from the original body, and the user can wear it on their wrist like a wristwatch. This wristwatch would have two physical buttons and can communicate with the main device through Bluetooth. Moreover, the main device can recharge the removable part when they are connected again. All tech bloggers, reviews, and personalities in the industry are boggled with their abilities. If it can serve its purpose, this technology will wipe out all other smart-watches from the business.

6. In-Display Fingerprint Scanner

Another latest smartphone technology is the in-display fingerprint scanner. Funny how we have moved past using PINs to unlock our devices to using the face unlock feature to enhance our smartphones’ security measures. Now, the in-display fingerprint scanner form of a biometric security system is quite amusing. The everlasting innovation game brings us a security system that uses an optical fingerprint sensor embedded under the screen to collect fingerprint data. The American publicly owned Synaptics provides its Clear ID Optical In-Display Fingerprint Sensors to most smartphones. Its impeccable accuracy has significantly increased its demand. This tech can also be used to verify major financial transactions in the future.

7. Control House Temperature with Smartphones

The widespread use of Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple Siri to control the smart devices in our home is increasingly rising. Meanwhile, many people have wished to control their devices through smartphones. Now, that prayer has been answered. It can be done using Wi-Fi in your home. For instance, an intelligent thermostat called Nest is designed by the same guy who crafted the iPods. It allows you to control the temperature of your house remotely from anywhere in the world. So, you will not incur greater electricity bills. In addition, during cold chilly winter, you can set temperatures to be higher so that you can return to a warm and cosy home. Also, you can lower the temperatures in the scorching summer to return to a fantastic home.

8. Better Home Security with Security Cameras and Smartphones

In recent times, the number of break-ins has been accelerating. People are increasingly concerned with the safety of their loved ones and their homes. To fight these concerning issues, the newer models of motion-activated security cameras come with the ability to control through Wi-Fi. Whenever the camera is activated, you are immediately alerted about the activity. You can also see the live feed of the house. So, it will be easy for you to check if it is your delivery guy, a neighbour, a friend, or an intruder. In case of unwanted people like robbers, you can quickly inform concerned authorities to take action. This facility will ensure that your home is safe from unwanted intruders.

9. Smartphone to Smart Key Technology

It is one of many smartphone technologies that can convert your smartphone into a smart key. Although smart keys have been around for three decades, their uses are increasing only recently. Google recently announced that Android smartphones would be able to lock and unlock certain vehicles. This earth-shattering feature will be available when the Android 12 rolls out. The android users who own vehicles that use near-field communication (NFC) or ultra-wideband (UWB) will be able to control their cars.

Additionally, they will also be able to start their vehicle if they want. German automobile manufacturer BMW will be releasing keys compatible with android. Therefore, the Samsung Galaxy series and Google’s Pixels will receive their digital smart keys later this year. It is a great feature for people who tend to forget their keys here and there.

10. Automatic Smart Pet Feeder Technology

Once considered a future, smartphone technology is now a reality. These latest Smartphone technologies are a blessing for all pet lovers. The automated smart pet feeders allow you to stringently maintain the schedule and manage the feeding times of your pets. You can even control the portion to be served and manage the food supply. Users can control these smart devices through their smartphones. So, even if you are away from home on a short vacation or you are at work, your beloved pet will never miss a meal.

Foremost innovators and researchers are constantly competing to invent the next big thing. With such dedication and hard work, we will likely receive newer technological updates sooner rather than later. Let us wait and see what the future holds.

#ready4tech #mobile #latest technology

1 note · View note

altendorf-group-india · 1 year ago

Text

The Evolution of Sliding Table Saws: Spotlight on the Altendorf WA 8

The journey of woodworking tools is a fascinating tale of human ingenuity striving for ever-greater precision and efficiency. In this evolution, the sliding table saw stands out as a revolutionary innovation that transformed how woodworkers approach cutting tasks. Today, we delve into this history, exploring the development of sliding table saws and placing the spotlight on a modern marvel - the Altendorf WA 8 sliding table saw machine.

From Stationary Beginnings: The Birth of the Table Saw

The table saw's origin story can be traced back to the late 19th century, with early versions featuring a circular saw mounted on a fixed table. The material was fed through the spinning blade, a technique that presented challenges with larger pieces and intricate cuts.

The Rise of the Sliding Table: A Paradigm Shift

The 20th century ushered in a breakthrough concept - the sliding table saw. This ingenious design replaced the stationary table with a large platform that glides on rails. The saw blade, instead of the material, moved across the workpiece. This seemingly simple change yielded significant advantages:

Enhanced Precision: By minimizing material movement during cutting, the sliding table design significantly reduced errors, leading to cleaner and more accurate cuts.

Effortless Sheet Good Handling: Large panels, previously cumbersome to maneuver on traditional saws, could now be handled smoothly on the expansive table, reducing strain and the risk of material damage.

Angled Cutting Prowess: The sliding table facilitated precise angled and mitered cuts with ease, opening doors for complex joinery projects and intricate woodworking techniques.

The Legacy of Early Sliding Table Saw Pioneers

The credit for pioneering the sliding table saw concept goes to companies like Altendorf, a German manufacturer renowned for its dedication to precision engineering. Their early models, while lacking the sophistication of modern machines, laid the foundation for future advancements.

The Altendorf WA 8: A Modern Masterpiece

Fast forward to today, and the Altendorf WA 8 stands as a testament to the continuous evolution of the sliding table saw. It incorporates the core principles of the design while boasting a range of advanced features that elevate the woodworking experience:

Model Variations: The WA 8 caters to diverse needs with two models - the WA 8 NT for user-friendly straight cuts and the WA 8 T for those who require precise angled and bevel cuts.

Digital Readouts (WA 8 T): For angled cuts, the WA 8 T features a digital display that provides accurate readings, ensuring perfect miters every time.

Scoring Unit: Minimize chipping and achieve clean tear-free edges with the integrated scoring unit, allowing for pre-cut lines exactly where the main blade will follow.

Ergonomic Design: From conveniently placed controls to a comfortable working height, the WA 8 prioritizes operator comfort, reducing fatigue during extended use.

Safety Features: The WA 8 incorporates various safety features like guards and riving knives to prioritize operator well-being.

The Impact of the WA 8 on Modern Woodworking

The Altendorf WA 8 isn't just a machine; it's a game-changer for woodworkers. Here's how it impacts the craft:

Unmatched Precision: The WA 8 empowers woodworkers to achieve exceptional cutting accuracy, essential for professional results and intricate projects.

Boosted Efficiency: Streamlined cutting processes, effortless material handling, and user-friendly features significantly enhance workflow and workshop productivity.

Versatility Unleashed: From flawless straight cuts to complex joinery, the WA 8 caters to a wide range of woodworking techniques, opening doors for creative exploration.

The Future of Sliding Table Saws: Continuous Innovation

The story of the sliding table saw is far from over. Manufacturers like Altendorf are constantly pushing the boundaries, with advancements in:

Computerized Controls: Integration of computer-aided design (CAD) for enhanced precision and automation.

Advanced Material Handling: Features that assist with material loading and unloading for improved ergonomics and safety.

Sustainable Materials: Increased use of eco-friendly materials in the construction of sliding table saws.

The WA 8: A Legacy of Precision Continues

The Altendorf WA 8 sliding table saw machine is a prime example of how far the technology has come. It embodies the spirit of continuous improvement, offering woodworkers a powerful tool to elevate their craft. While the initial investment might be significant, the WA 8 represents a long-term investment in precision, efficiency, and the joy of creating exceptional results.

Conclusion

The Altendorf WA 8 stands as a shining example of this progress. It offers a glimpse into the future of woodworking, where precision, efficiency, and user-friendliness go hand-in-hand.

Choosing the Right Sliding Table Saw:

While the WA 8 boasts impressive features, it's important to consider your specific needs before making a decision. Here's a quick guide:

Professional Woodworkers: For those who rely on their tools for a living, the WA 8's capabilities justify the investment. Its precision and efficiency translate to high-quality work and maximized output.

Serious Hobbyists: If you're passionate about woodworking and committed to taking your skills to the next level, the WA 8 empowers you to create furniture and projects with unmatched accuracy and a professional finish.

Casual Woodworkers: For those with occasional woodworking needs, a traditional table saw might suffice. However, if you foresee tackling larger projects or intricate cuts in the future, a sliding table saw like the WA 8 could be a worthy long-term investment.

The Final Word:

The evolution of the sliding table saw is a testament to human ingenuity and its relentless pursuit of better woodworking techniques. The Altendorf WA 8 is a powerful culmination of this journey, offering a tool that empowers woodworkers to create with confidence, efficiency, and exceptional precision. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, the WA 8 represents a potential gateway to a world of creative possibilities in the realm of woodworking.

#sliding table saw #sliding table machine #w8 sliding table saw

0 notes

screamingatanemptyroom · 6 years ago

Text

I Can’t Eat Love pt 34

Here it is, the final part from Lenora’s perspective. I am officially planning four side parts, each from a different perspective. These will give insight into the past, and a glimpse of what happens after the story. So they’ll be very important to wrapping things up.

I really want to thank everyone who has been following this with me. I really really love writing this story, these characters, and honestly i didn’t want to end it. But this was always the story i wanted to tell. I’m so happy i had the chance to tell it.

Thank you for reading

Master post linked here.

Enjoy!

______________________________

“Will that be all your Majesty?”

A servant bowed before the King of Reterand, his face solemn and respectful. The King, sitting in his chair by the fireplace, glanced around the empty, well lit room before gesturing for the servant to leave.

“I do not wish to be disturbed.” At his cold tone the servant flinched, before backing quickly out of the room.

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

Click.

The door closed behind him, and the King was alone. He stared into the fire, his hands clenched on the armrests of his chair.

“Why couldn’t she just die?” He muttered, his face bitter. “Everything would have been settled if she were gone. I’ll have to figure out something new…”

His voice trailed off as he blinked, a strange blue smoke was coming out of the fire, surrounding him. His eyes widened with shock and he opened his mouth to call out, but before any sound escaped he slumped into his chair, unconscious.

Watching through the peepholes in the secret passageway, I grinned at the sight.

______________________________

It took around ten minutes for the king to fully wake up. In that time the room had greatly changed. The lamps had dimmed, the majority of light in the space coming from the weakened fire behind the King’s chair. A table was set before him, and across from him was an equally luxurious chair, in which I sat.

His gaze focused on me, and his face turned pale with fear. He opened his mouth once more to call out for help.

Thud.

A knife thrown from my hand passed right by his face, embedding itself into the wooden mantel of the fireplace behind him. A short distance over and it would have landed in his eye instead.

“My apologies, Your Majesty. I’m a nervous person, my hand tends to slip when I think loud noises will happen.”

I watched him with satisfaction as he understood the meaning of my words:

Call out if you want to die.

“You’re crazy.” He whispered, his eyes locked onto the throwing knife in my hand.

“Really? How strange.” I smiled gently “I’m not the one seeking my own destruction. But there doesn’t have to be any unpleasantness, Your Majesty. I’m only here to talk.”

“Talk?” He snorted. “You broke into the palace and drugged your king to have a talk? You bit…”

Thud. Drip. Drip. Drip.

The sound of the blood running down his cheek and dripping onto the floor broke the only silence of the room. The King’s eyes held equal parts pain and terror as his hand slowly rose up to his face, and he turned to look at the bloody knife embedded in the mantel next to the first.

“Again, I have to apologize.” I held up a third knife, “I’m a very nervous person. It’s hard for me to hear such unpleasantness.”

“…” He grabbed a handkerchief and pressed it to the bleeding wound, studying me for a long moment.

“What do you want?”

I smiled at the sound of fear in his voice. “One simple question:” I leaned forward, staring into his eyes. “Why?”

The silence stretched on between us.

Why? Why had he schemed to bring me under his control? Why had he planned to hurt me, to kill me? Why had he hurt the ones I loved?

“I never wanted your throne.” My voice was quiet. “I never wanted the kingdom, to take your place. I sought only to leave you, your son and your kingdom behind.”

So why?

The king looked up at the ceiling and softly began to laugh.

“Don’t pretend to be innocent! You think I’m blind? A fool?” His laughter ended, his expression solemn. “The power shifted in this kingdom, how could I not be aware? The people all know, as do the other nobles. If you want wealth, then go to the Duchy of Armeny. If you seek knowledge, then the schools within their borders contain them. If you are poor and suffering, then the Duchy will take you in.”

He shook his head. “They all know, they all speak of it. How Lenora of Armeny loves the people. How she cares for them, works for them tirelessly. So different from the crown, from the other nobles. They view you as their leader. Did you really think I wouldn’t see what you were doing?”

“I never wanted power.”

“Liar.” He laughed again. “Maybe I would have believed it, thought you really cared for others, if you weren’t her daughter.” His voice expressed disgust at the word. “The woman who clung to me, clung to my throne. She never forgave me for casting her aside, marrying someone else.”

He’s talking about Seline. The woman I had once called mother. My smiled widened at his increasingly frantic tone.

“I thought giving you the engagement would satisfy her need for revenge. At least her daughter would be queen! But then… I saw your eyes at Ronan’s birthday party. And I realized… She didn’t want her daughter to simply succeed my position, she had brought her up to destroy me.”

I thought of the moment our eyes met in the ballroom that day, the coldness I had found there.

“You thought I was that woman’s pawn?”

“Of course! She had raised you to hate me, to destroy me! She was obsessed with me and I betrayed her! And you were her revenge!” His voice was slowly raising in volume. I held up my knife, warning him, and he quieted his tone, although he remained belligerent. “I knew I had to either bind you to the crown or destroy you.”

This was how he viewed me? His fear, his paranoia, his determination to defeat me, all stemmed from this? I couldn’t help it, I began to chuckle.

“Wha…” He stared at me in shock as the chuckle grew into a laugh, continuing until tears were rolling from my eyes.

“Fool.” A single word, but he flinched at it.

“You made the same mistake that everyone around that woman does. You thought that because you betrayed her, she would be obsessed with you? Want revenge?” I shook my head. “Seline has only ever cared about one person, and one person only: herself.”

She hated the king who betrayed her, but never sought his attention once she turned her back. She had tried to push me to be Queen, but not for revenge. She had only wanted the benefits for herself.

“She is a very simple person. She wants to be rich, she wants to be pampered, she wants to be happy.” I listed these off while counting on my fingers. “When you left her she hated you, yes… but she immediately sought out the next available rich and powerful young man to marry, thinking he would dote on her. And when that didn’t work out…”

I thought of the bitter woman I had grown up around, who hated my father for not adoring her after being forced into marriage with her. Who after realizing that having a child that would be Queen didn’t give her the attention and pampering she felt she deserved immediately abandoned us both in search of a new lover. She had never looked back, except to protect her image.

“Do you really think I was working with her?” I leaned forward, and the King flinched. “I was the one who destroyed her.”

I had quietly released the truth about her among the merchants and nobility. The truth of her actions and despicable nature was slowly spreading, with no indication of their source. The king must have heard of them, but hadn’t realized that the person he had considered her pawn had turned against the woman who gave birth to her.

“No, that’s not true. You are her revenge…” He started to mutter but I interrupted him, my bright smile causing him to shudder.

“She’s already abandoned you long ago.”

“…” He stared at me in silent shock.

“You have been wrong about so many things, Your Majesty. Wrong about Seline. Wrong about me and my motives. But most of all, your biggest mistake was this:” I twirled the throwing knife in my hand. “You thought that the reason I didn’t fight back was because I couldn’t… because I was scared.”

“You…”

A pile of documents landed on the table where I threw them, the sound silencing the King’s retort.

“The only reason I haven’t moved was because you were never worth being my opponent in the first place.”

I had ignored his attempts to force me to marry. I had turned a blind eye to his schemes to take my life. But now…

He had touched my people.

I thought of Hallers, still recovering from his injuries at the Queen’s private suite. Of Rig and Nate, whose safety in Tilendria was still unknown.

I pointed at the stack.

“What is that?” His voice betrayed his confusion and fear.

“I’m not a ruler like you, Your Majesty. I’m not a warrior, a spy or a revolutionary.” I grinned, “I’m a businesswoman.”

He looked at the papers once more.

“And I’m here to do business.”

Slowly, a shaking hand reached out towards the stack of papers, turning them and reading them one by one. The rest of the color completely drained from his face, until he looked like someone half-dead.

“An accurate representation of my wealth. You must have been surprised when I recently revealed myself as the owner of Prosperity, right?” I watched his face, and the look in his eyes made me feel happy. “You have probably been scrambling, realizing that your enemy was stronger than you thought. But you were still wrong.”

He flinched at the last word.

“I’m much more powerful than even that.” I pointed at the papers, and he continued to read. “Not only do I control Prosperity, but I’ve slowly been investing in different businesses within Reterland over the past five years. There’s very few places that are not connected to me financially, one way or the other.”

“…” He flipped to the last page, shaking his head as if to deny the information before him.

“What do you think would happen if I pulled out all of my money from Reterland?”

At those words the King’s head snapped up, his eyes wide. “You wouldn’t! You could lose everything!”

“Lose everything?” The thought made me laugh. “No. I would only lose a lot of money. Most of it, in fact.” I leaned back in my chair, my eyes on his. “But I would have my life. My loved ones. I can start over and build everything again.”

I had already done it once. For them? I would do it over again a thousand times.

“But Reterland’s economy? It would be crippled. It would never recover.”

“Why…?”

“But that is only the beginning.”

Another stack of papers landed. This time he viewed them with clear terror.

“Go ahead. Read it You not looking at it won’t change anything. I’ll simply tell you the contents.” The turning blade in my hand reflected the firelight around the room, he stared at the sight, seemingly dazzled. “It’s every dirty secret within the nobility. Everything they’ve strived to keep hidden, all written neatly upon every page. Every noble.” I smiled sadly. “Even my father.”

I had initially excluded him from Rig’s investigations, but now his secrets were on the second page.

“Even you.”

The King’s secrets were on the first.

He picked up the top page, his hands shaking as he read it slowly.

“So many dirty secrets, evil deeds done in the shadows. Hiring corrupt men to infiltrate the Duchy, weaken it from within? Spreading rumors and lies? Drugging a daughter of the nobility to attach her to your son? How hideous.”

Of course there were many, many more on that page. The Duchy of Armeny wasn’t the only power he had sought to cripple.

“The people of this nation are so important. How will they react when so many of the nobility are revealed to be corrupt? How much faith will they have in them? In you?”

“…” He couldn’t reply, he just stared at the page in front of him. I needed to push harder.

“The nobility isn’t the only part of this kingdom I’ve been watching.”

A third and final stack. This time he picked it up immediately, before dropping it again as if it were burning his hand. It may have felt like that to him.

“Exact locations and numbers of your troops, your weapons… everything.”

“This is a declaration of war.” He mumbled, not looking away from the paper in front of him. “Tilendria…”

“Could destroy you in an instant.” I tapped a finger on the paper, catching his attention once more. “With a crippled economy, disgraced leadership and exact knowledge of the enemy’s military? I could place a five year old at the head of an army and he could take you down.”

The King’s lips drew back in a snarl at my words, even as he seemed to be desperately searching for a way to deny them. I stood up, vaulting over the table, arriving at the King’s side in an instant. He shrunk back in his chair but was unable to avoid the blade at his throat, or block the whisper in his ears.

“If none of that matters to you then consider this: How did I get here without raising a single alarm?”

His eyes were wide with fear as he stared up at me.

“How many of your people are already mine for me to walk calmly in and drug your fire?”

I had actually arrived through the secret passages but there was no need to tell him that. I reached out and took the wine glass from his table with my free hand, tipping it back and drinking from it. All the while the point of my dagger dug into the monarch’s throat. “How easy would it be to poison your wine? Your fire? A needle in your bed?” I laughed coldly, setting the empty glass down.

“Do you believe me now when I say that I never wanted your throne?”

The King’s gaze was steady on me as he gave the slightest nod of his head, wary of the knife in my hand. He was convinced. How could he not be?

If I had wanted the throne, I could have taken it any time I wanted.

“You were never my opponent.” I stepped away, still holding the knife, walking towards the door. “A scared old man who desperately clung to his throne, chasing shadows… when you were never prepared to sacrifice what you needed to in order to win against me.”

He was different then me. He saw everyone around him as threats or tools, moving according to his whim. He was willing to sacrifice everyone else to protect everything he had….

While I was willing to sacrifice everything I had to protect everyone else.

“What do you want?” The same question as earlier, but this time it carried the sound of defeat.

I smiled. “I want you to do nothing.”

“…” His face was incredulous, it made me laugh.

“Rule your kingdom, for as long as that lasts. Do not look at me. Do not turn towards those under my protection. If you touch a single hair on their heads…”

I paused, trying to compose the expression on my face. I couldn’t completely succeed, however, by the look of terror in his eyes.

“I will destroy everything.”

My final threat. I meant every word. A moment of hesitation, any crack in the confidence I displayed, could spell the difference between victory and continued danger for them

The King weakly nodded, looking much smaller than he had before. “I will do as you say.”

“Good.”

THUD

The third dagger flew into the fireplace, splitting open a small bag of powder, which combined with the fire, letting out blue smoke once more.

“Remember this promise.”

The King’s eyes remained on me even as he started to sway, the effect of the drug taking hold.

“Oh, and one more thing:” I turned away “I’m taking your wife with me.”

The King slipped into unconsciousness under my gold gaze.

______________________________

I arrived back at the Duchy to pick everyone up.

“Is it over?” Henry greeted me with a smile.

I nodded. “it’s over.”

“Are you leaving? For good?” He looked sad. Reaching out and hugging him, I nodded quietly.

“I’ll miss you.” He reached over and picked something up, tucking it behind my ear. A flower. Of course. I left it in place, smiling back.

“Well, you better come and visit then. And of course I’ll always be willing to help out with the duchy.”

“Nate still owes me some plants, so I’ll take you up on that.” We hugged again, and I blinked back tears.

“See you soon.”

______________________________

As we packed up and prepared to leave, I heard someone call out my name quietly. Pausing as I was about to enter the carriage, I looked over to see the pale face of my father as he stood in the doorway, watching me.

“Your daughter is in prison. For trying to kill me.” My words were short, cold. He shuddered and stepped back.

“Lenora... I’m...” His voice faded, unable to say the last word.

He wasn’t sorry. He was so focused on the future he had lost that he had never once thought of making a new one with me.

“The paperwork for you to hand over the Duchy to Henry completely has been prepared. Sign it before tomorrow.” It was a threat. I knew his secrets. He may not care about himself, but for the woman he still loved...

“I’ll sign it.” He had no hesitation. It had been a long time since my father had cared about the Duchy at all. “Are you leaving already?”

I smiled. “I have to go home.”

Where Nate was. Where my family was. It was time to go home.

I left him behind, never looking back.

______________________________

“Why are you so nervous?” Queen Amerande smiled at me as she held my hand in the carriage. I clutched at the reassuring warmth, feeling sick to my stomach as I thought of what waited for me ahead. I would rather confront the king a hundred more times than face what was before me now.

“They said he was injured.” I whispered, staring down at my lap, trying to take slow deep breathes.

“Yes, but he and Rig both made it back alive.” She patted my head. “Isn’t that a reason to be relieved?”

They were alive. I couldn’t help but smile, despite my nervousness. We had received a letter while we traveled. Rig had arrived in time to warn Nate of the bandit’s true nature. Nate had already gathered a strong force, and with knowledge of where their reinforcements were coming from, had managed to cut the secret army in half, defeating them soundly. They were recovering now in a small border town of Tilendria, where our carriage was heading right now.

“He’s waiting for you.” Was all that Rig’s note had said to tell me.

I frowned. “I don’t know if I can do this.”

Hallers, Lia and the Queen all stared at me kindly, none of them needing to ask what I was worried about.

It was one thing to recognize my feelings. It was another to face them openly. To trust him with my heart.

I was terrified.

I felt a warm hand on my head. Hallers, still bandaged in multiple places, smiled at me. “You have us behind you, Miss. Live freely. Don’t be afraid.”

We won’t let you fall alone.

The words unsaid brought tears to my eyes. I nodded, feeling stronger as the carriage slowly came to a stop.

“There’s two men waiting on the road ahead.” The driver called out. I felt my heart beat faster as I looked out through the window. Rig remained on a horse, looking tired, but happy. And there, standing on the road, waiting was Prince Nathaniel of Tilendria.

The man I loved.

The man who loved me.

I stepped out of the carriage, walking towards him.

______________________________

“Love is useless.” The words escaped through chapped, broken lips. I was curled up in a ball in an alley. Pain. Hunger. Exhaustion. I could feel death’s presence hanging over me, and I was tired of fighting it.

I had loved my mother, but she had only loved herself.

I had loved my father, but he never even looked once in my direction.

I had loved Edith, and she had betrayed me, taking my engagement with a smile.

I had loved Ronan, but he had never wanted to even know my name.

I had loved Queen Amerande… but she had forgotten about me.

Love was a useless thing. A weakness. If there was any life after death, I would never love again. I would find wealth. I would find power. I would eat until I was full every day.

But I would never ever love again.

I closed my eyes for the last time.

______________________________

I kept my eyes wide open as I looked at the man I loved. His left arm was bandaged heavily, he had large bruise on one cheek, but he was smiling. The warm, loving smile that I knew so well.

“Lenora.”

I sighed at the sound of my name. I kept walking. The fear, the hesitation were still present but smaller than the force within me driving me forward. Arriving in front of him, we both stood there for a few moments, staring at each other.

“This is for you.” His hand reached out, and in it was an envelope, so similar to the others he had given me over the years.

How many times had he supported me?

I had lost count.

At my expression he laughed, a pleasant, lighthearted sound. “I promise this is the last one.”

I took it, the paper smooth against my fingertips, shaking with the trembling of my hand. The last one. Because after this, he would have nothing left to give me. A smile crossed my face as I slowly opened the paper, reading the words written inside.

“This may seem sudden. I know that you don’t believe that love is a good thing. Especially after that idio… after everything you’ve been through, I understand if you’re not ready to trust me. But I had to tell you what I hope for. What my dream is.”

The paper in my hand drifted slowly to the ground. It settled there, halfway between us. Nate frowned at the sight, anxiety creeping into his gaze as he looked up at me.

I smiled at him. “I love you.”

“…” He seemed frozen. I waited for a few moments, wondering if I needed to say something else, but then his entire face turned red and he crouched down on the ground covering his head.

��So unfair!” He muttered. “I wasn’t expecting it.”

I laughed. “You weren’t expecting me to tell you ‘I love you’ after you proposed?” I looked back down at the paper, the words facing upwards towards me. Clearly written on there was a simple request, but one that changed everything.

Please marry me. Spend forever by my side.

I wanted all of that and more.

Finally he stood up, and although his face was still red, Nate’s gaze was clear as he took a deep breath and spoke once more.

“I love you too. Will you marry me?”

Love is useless.

I left those words behind me. I reached out and touched his face, and then stepped closer.

“Yes.”

My lips touched his for only a short moment, but we each sighed with relief at the contact. I parted only the smallest distance from him. We were both smiling.

“We have a lot to talk about.”

He would know my past. Everything. It would be easier to say this time around. I looked behind me, smiling gratefully at the Queen and Hallers, who both had exited the carriage and were cheering loudly. Rig grinned as he got off of his horse and patted Nate on the back.

“Congrats, both of you.” Rig and I looked at each other, and I knew what he was excited to get a new member of the family.

“I’ll write to Erica and Marile.” Lia had stepped out as well. “We’ll hear the screams from here.”

“I’ll tell them in person when we arrive home. After that, we’ll never hear the end of it.” I pretended to complain, but knew that they would both be happy for me. They were part of it too after all. Our family.

“Good.” Nate reached out and took my hand. “Let’s go home.”

Home.

Nate and I walked hand in hand towards the carriage, ready to head back to the capital. As we walked I couldn’t help but think of everything that had led up to this. My former life. The struggles I had gone through. The hatred, the bitterness, the vengeance I had been caught up in without even knowing why.

I still didn’t know why I had been given a second chance at life.

But now, as I stood with the family that cared for me, the one that I had protected, I couldn’t help but look forward to the future.

One I would create with those I loved

#writing #i can't eat love #second life #second chance #here it is #there's still the side parts #so don't be too sad yet #:)

254 notes · View notes

enjoltveit · 5 years ago

Text

before i met you, i only loved france

you frantically scanned the barricade trying to find him. the rain was pouring and blurring your vision, but you perservered. your ears were ringing from the calamity of gunfire that had ceased just moments before, and yet you still perservered. your heart began to beat faster as you started to worry about his whereabouts and safety. finally, after what felt like an eternity, you saw him with courfeyrac and joly tending to parts of the barricade that had been damaged during the battle. you took a deep breath and began to walk toward him. you had to tell him what had been on your heart for months, ever since you first met him, and you didn't know what pain tomorrow would bring. you reached the trio after what felt like forever, your limbs heavy with nervousness and dread. you cleared your throat quietly and spoke up.

"enjolras," you spoke.

all three heads turned to face you, concern written on their faces. you took a deep breath and continued, "enjolras, i have to talk to you about something important."

"y/n," he sighed. your breath hitched at the sound of your own name falling from his lips. "i'm extremely busy now, i can't talk. if it's important then go and talk to combeferre about it, please."

your heart sank at his words, and a deep confusion found itself plastered onto courfeyrac and joly's faces. you opened your mouth to speak once more.

"i-it's important that you--" you began, before being cut off by an increasingly frustrated enjolras.

"y/n!! i'm busy. if it's of any importance then i've put combeferre in charge," enjolras interjected, his face red with stress. your heart began to crack under the immense pain in your chest.

"enj--" you stammered.

"do you WANT us to lose this battle, y/n?" he boomed, obvious anger embedded in his eyes. at that, your heart shattered into a trillion miniscule pieces and you shrank as he towered intimidatingly over you. you wavered for a moment, staring at your hands in shock, before absentmindedly turning on your heel and slowly walking away. you headed for the musain, wanting to wash away the bitter taste of heartache with a bottle of absinthe.

as your feet dragged themselves up the stairs your eyes began to blur with tears. as they trailed down your face and you furiously tried to wipe them away, you saw a familiar figure sitting at the table in the corner. he looked up at you with a high degree of worry.

"y/n? are you alright?" he spoke softly, his voice sounding surprisingly sober. you tried to hide the pain and brokenness in your voice as you faked a smile and spoke.

"hey, r," your voice cracked and you cursed the emotion swirling around your soul. grantaire took notice immediately as he stood and slowly made his way over to you.

"what happened? is everything alright?" his voice was gentle and brotherly, and the warmth and safety he radiated when he didn't smell of gin took you by surprise. his kind gesture only stirred the broken pieces in your chest even more, and you felt yourself collapse into his embrace as your shoulders shook with misery.

"shhh, it's okay. you're okay," his voice was soft as he rubbed your back and hugged you close. you had always been like a younger sister in his eyes, but he stayed distant for fear of disappointing you with his unbeatable alcoholism. your figure went completely limp as you lost all your energy to stand, and he brought you over to a chair.

"did you tell him?" he inquired as he sat across from you. your swollen eyes met his in confusion and he smiled at you. "a big brother can always tell when his baby sister has someone in her heart."

"i went to tell him and he dismissed me saying that if it's important to tell combeferre. i think i made him angry. i never should've bothered him when he was obviously stressed and busy! i'm just going to ruin the entire revolution!!" you were now sobbing into your hands, too weak and ashamed to look grantaire in the eyes. his heart crumbled at the raw agony echoing in your voice. he reached across the table and stroked your hair gently. you lowered your head to the table and let out a shaky breath in a lost attempt to calm yourself.

you hadn't realized you had been yelling until there was a knock on a table next to the stairs. you dreaded who it could've been, so you kept your head firmly tucked into your arms on the table. grantaire stood and walked over to you, leaning down and kissing your head before walking over to the visitor.

"you really fucked up this time, enjolras," grantaire spoke quietly, keeping the conversation between them only. enjolras winced at the use of his full name rather than the usual nickname grantaire called him, but replied quietly.

"what are you talking about, grantaire? the revolution has begun and we all must pay a sacrifice," enjolras whispered. grantaire scoffed at him and shook his head.

"for a revolutionary leader you sure are blind," grantaire sighed and enjolras' eyes narrowed at the comment, but he stayed silent. "go talk to her and apologize," and with that, grantaire walked down the stairs and out of the musain, leaving the two of you in a heated silence.

after a moment, enjolras slowly made his way over to you, sitting across from you as grantaire had just moments ago. he opened his mouth to speak but you cut him off by rising from your chair and turning to walk away.

"y/n," he sighed. "where are you going?"

"to talk to combeferre about something urgent that isn't important enough for you," you tried to speak with confidence, but all that emitted from your throat was a dull whimper. enjolras felt his heart snap in two at the tone in your voice, and he stood, gently grabbing your wrist as you turned to walk away, pulling you back to face him. you kept your eyes on the floor as he spoke up.

"please, y/n, tell me what i've done so i can fix it. i am so immensely sorry for taking all of my stress out on you. what did you need to tell me, hm?" his voice was calm and soft, and an emotion you had never sensed in him poured from his chest. you willed yourself to look him in the eyes, and the deep expression in them caused all of your resolve to drain from your chest as you lost your footing and crashed into him. he stood in shock for a moment before enveloping you within his arms.

"i'm so sorry, y/n. i've made you cry and i've made a complete ass of myself," he spoke, and hearing your quiet sobs and feeling the gentle quake of your shaking shoulders only fueled his regret even more. he reached up and stroked your hair as he cradled you, and you took a deep breath to steady your voice before speaking.

"i'm going to lose you, aren't i?" you croaked, your voice hoarse with emotion. "i'm going to lose you and all my boys. i'm going to lose my family before the sun sets tomorrow." your voice shuddered and you clung to him tightly. his eyes stung, but he willed the tears to stay at bay and held you tighter.

"y/n," he began, sorrow tracing every syllable he spoke. "the revolution depends on us." his voice was laced with regret and soft with care.

"so do i, julien. i depend on all of you more than you will ever know," your voice was shaky as you spoke. enjolras' heart stirred at your use of his first name. after taking a steady breath, you continued, "especially you. you have anchored me and kept me steady during the eye of the hurricane. you have all kept me afloat, but you have willed me to keep swimming." your voice was much steadier now as you poured your soul into his arms. enjolras drew in a slow breath as he blinked away tears that had been threatening to spill.

"y/n, please tell me what you truly want to tell me," he spoke as he pulled away from you slightly, looking down at your tattered figure. he grasped both of your hands and encased them in his own. you drew in a shaky breath and raised your gaze to meet his, his eyes almost being too much to bare. you searched for any sign of reluctance in them, and when you could find none, you slowly began to speak.

"i--" you began, barely above a whisper. enjolras could sense the nervousness in your voice and brought a hand up to rest against your cheek. he gave you a small smile, which propelled you to continue. "i am in love with you, julien. i have been ever since the first day i stumbled upon one of your meetings. now, after all that time, i'm going to lose you. when you die tomorrow, a part of me is going to die with you. my strength will be gone and all my will to go on will turn to dust. i was nothing before i met you all and i will be nothing after."

you hadn't realized that your tears had resumed falling until you felt enjolras wipe them away with his thumbs, hot tears also streaming down his face. he steadied himself before speaking.

"if i die tomorrow, y/n. there's still hope," he spoke, trying his best to sound convincing and calming. you bit back your tears and shook your head.

"do you really believe that? i heard you say we're the only barricade left. i know you're trying to keep the faith, but please just tell me the honest truth," you sighed, too weak to even cry any more tears. enjolras' chest ached at how well you could see through his prideful demeanor.

"the honest truth?" enjolras asked softly and you nodded. he nodded in return and continued. "the honest truth is that i love you, y/n. before i met you, i only loved france. future generations will come to france's aid. give it a few years and a new wave of brave revolutionaries will fight for freedom. if i am gone, who will come to your aid, y/n? who will keep you company, and who will be your family?" your tears resumed full-force this time, both at his sudden coffession and at the thought of no one being with you once they are gone from your life. you stayed silent and he continued.

"that's my point, y/n. there will still be an army of people singing for france in ten years time, even after my brothers and i fall. in ten years time i will be singing for you," he finished, looking at you and searching your eyes for a response.

"what are you trying to say, julien?" you asked, barely above a whisper for fear of another endless rain of sobs erupting from your chest. he gave you a small smile and grasped your hands once more.

"let's all run away tonight, while it's still dark. let's get out of paris and find a safe place to live, all of us together," he offered, much to your surprise. your eyes widened and you frenetically shook your head.

"this revolution means everything to you, julien! i can't allow myself to ruin it and make everyone's sacrifices meaningless. i would never be able to live with myself if i was the cause for the rebellion's failure," you cried out, taken aback by his sudden willingness to give up after going so far. his hands reached up to cradle your face and he shook his head with a soft smile.

"and i can't allow myself to leave you all alone. i can't allow myself to be the cause of you losing everything and your entire world turning upside down," he began, caressing your cheeks and stroking them with his thumbs. he took a deep breath and took one last look at your eyes before leaning in and closing the distance between your lips. he was so soft, and his light stubble felt like warm sand against your face. when he pulled away, he continued.

"and i certainly can't allow myself to leave you. france will still be here in a hundred years, but our time is short and limited. the people of the future will rise, and our efforts will not be all for naught. we have planted the seed for success, but if i die tomorrow i will have failed you." your hands were shaking and your mind swirled in a million different emotions.

"julien, i--" you began, but he spoke over you gently.

"this is my own decision, y/n. no one is being let down, and nothing is failing. please, y/n, will you just promise me one thing?"

"anything," you replied, and he smiled, brushing a strand of hair from your face.

"please promise me you'll stay with me no matter what? promise me you won't ever leave? even if i grow old and weary?" he asked, genuine emotion written all over his features. you smiled and raised your own hands to the nape of his neck, twirling tufts of his blonde curls between your fingertips.

"oh, julien. i fell in love with you, not just a revolutionary hero. i'm not going anywhere," you began, a smile creeping upon your face and your cheeks beginning to match enjolras' coat. you swallowed your nerves and pulled his face down to yours, pressing a chaste kiss to his lips before concluding your vow. "i promise."

the smile on his face grew even brighter as he leaned in to place his lips on your forehead. you let your eyes flutter shut for a moment before opening them to meet his gaze. he tilted your head upward and rested his forehead against yours, his eyelashes dancing with your own, and breathed new life into your soul.

"and i promise, too," he told you, sincerity and warmth evident in his eyes. he planted one more, much longer kiss onto your lips and you felt his smile against your own. butterflies erupted in your chest and your soul lit itself aflame. as he pulled away, he spoke the words that gave your life new meaning.

"y/n, i love you so much. you are my everything. thank you for teaching me how to love," he sighed blissfully and embraced you like a cloud of warmth and safety. you relaxed into him and let your head fall to his shoulder. your arms wrapped around his shoulders as his enveloped your waist, and you spoke into his ear with your entire soul.

"i love you, too, julien."

#wow so much angst #i love angst #sorry grantaire i had to make you the wingman #enjolras #les mierables #les mis #les miz #aaron tveit #i love angst but can't handle sad endings #so that's why the ending is the way it is #because im a big baby #im so cheesy sorry

15 notes · View notes

kindness-ricochets · 6 years ago

Text

The Feast of Sankt Nikolai

Working title: Sinterklaas in Ketterdam

Corporalki: @flowerboynoah @sassysaltysarcasticstupid

Materialki: @imjustsomebodyelse @rootcellars [x] @sargents

Summary: Several years have passed since the Ice Court job and the winter holidays are approaching! For Jesper and Wylan, this means a chance to take a break from business and spend time with family—including Marya; Colm, visiting from Novyi Zem; Inej, on a brief stop from hunting slavers on the True Sea; and Wylan’s half-sister. But Ketterdam never stops. Wylan should be focused on convincing the rest of the Merchant Council to approve spending for public education… and he would be, if he weren’t distracted by a body on the docks in Hanraat Bay.

Merriment, merchers, and murder—’tis the season, Ketterdam-style.

Ao3 Link

In four and a half years, many things had changed for Jesper Fahey. He no longer lived in the Barrel, though he still lived in Ketterdam, and he was no longer a university dropout, but approaching completion of his degree. His body had taken pity and finally allowed him to grow a beard, though he was clean-shaven for now. It was more the knowledge that he could, if he wanted, have a beard. He kept his hair long, in Zemeni-style braids.

As he strode past two members of the stadwatch, he nodded in greeting and the men nodded back, familiar. He did not pause his stride. That was one thing that hadn't changed: as ever, Jesper was running late. He hurried up the stairs to the second story.

Jesper still dressed Barrel-bright, though. He had lost his jacket somewhere—in the pub? By the time the cold pierced his shirt, he had been too far along to turn back, already behind schedule—but his wine-red shirt and plaid trousers set off his paisley brocade waistcoat delightfully. A man could be a responsible university student and maintain his style!

Even as he heard voices spilling out from the theater where the Merchant Council held meetings, Jesper continued to lament the loss of his jacket. It wasn't a particularly nice jacket, but it was a particularly chilly corridor.

Sodding Kerch, he thought.

Six years of living in Ketterdam might have made him as familiar with the city as any nativeborn Kerch, but he would still curse their tight-fistedness on the heating budget. It was a government building, for the Saints' sake!

Jesper opened the door and slipped onto the balcony. Other observers crowded in; though he tried to edge closer, he knew he wouldn't be getting a prime spot. Instead, he craned his neck to get a view. At least the acoustics were good. The moment he opened the door, a crisp voice had washed over him, pitched to reach the rafters. He knew for a fact that voice was pitched to reach the rafters. He had been present for the elocution lessons.

"…that this proposal diverts badly needed funds away from the city, away from Ketterdam's hardworking denizens, on a project we do not need!"

"Do not need?" repeated another member of the Council. Jesper recognized the voice—Hiram Schenck. Voice like a frog, with a face to match. Schenck was true Kerch. All that had value had value in coin.

"Podge," Jesper muttered.

A second Councilman added, "Kerch needs its defenses. Kerch needs its safety. Or we may as well call ourself Shu Han!"

Boreg's logic sounded good, at least enough to earn murmurs of disapproval from the gallery. They did not wish to be called Shu Han. Well, neither did Jesper. He still woke up in a cold sweat sometimes from dreams about the kherguud. It didn't matter how many reasonable intellectual arguments he heard; Jesper did not hate the Shu, but their Fabrikator-modified soldiers left him with a deep fear of them.

"We have the Council of Tides," replied Wylan.

"Clever thing."

"Shh!" whispered someone beside Jesper.

Jesper didn't care. Wylan was clever, and just as Jesper needed reminders from time to time that he was safe, Wylan needed reminders that he was smart. Some wounds took a long time to fade. The Council of Tides and Merchant Council had their own power struggles, but those were carefully concealed from the public.

When he first saw Wylan, Jesper thought of him as a lost prince. He still saw Wylan that way, in his more romantic moments, simply no longer lost—found, cleaned up, made a man but never made a king. And today, Saints, his prince was shining.

"We have a more than formidable arsenal! What do we show the Zemeni and the Southern States if we insist our trade routes need more protection? They are our allies! What do we show the people of this city if we bankrupt their children's schools to pay for weapons to sit and wait for a war that may never come? Kerch must learn its lessons from Ravka, see how that country suffered from its wars and learn not to court our own."

"And if the Fjerdans should recover well enough to enter the fray?" asked Naten Boreg.

Fjerda was a changing country, but its strong military tradition prevailed. Had he not been over the figures again and again to prepare Wylan for this, Jesper might have felt the fear of that statement. He knew Wylan was frustrated down there. He must want to throw out the arguments he used with Jesper when they were alone: Kerch had a strong enough military now, they were strong at sea, Schenck's arguments had more to do with his mines than his fears! Jesper simply saw it as a sound approach. When you have Kerch's sole ruthenium mine, naturally, you argue that Kerch needs ruthenium. Needs weapons. Made sense. But his sweet, optimistic revolutionary continued to believe people ought to think of the greater good.

"We trust our allies in Ravka—"

"After what they did just a few years ago?" Schenck cut in. Jesper nodded to himself. He didn't like Schenck, so he had been particularly amused when the man thought he had pulled one over on the king of Ravka and brought home false submersible plans.

"Even so," Wylan insisted.

"The Ravkans have no love of the Fjerdans, either," offered Karl Dryden. "If Fjerda builds up its weapons again, Ravka is at the greatest risk."

"Our junior members seem to forget that the duty of this Council is to protect Kerch," sniped Boreg.

Jesper smiled. "Idiot," he muttered happily, earning himself another shush.

"My esteemed colleague," Wylan said, addressing Boreg with those silly, adorable merch manners, "the schools you would take these funds away from for one more submersible, they have already shown to benefit the children of Ketterdam. Fewer children are dying and more are finding their way into apprenticeships with even a year or two of education. Do we want to protect against an attack we might not face instead of continuing to fight dangers we do? Dangers like malnutrition and disease? These programs do protect Kerch, because what is Kerch—"

"If not her people!"

The line had put Wylan's name in the paper a few years ago. Years on, they still weren't tired of it. They broke the protocol of silence to shout it at him. With him.

Wylan had timed his speech perfectly. The bells announced three-quarter chime. The Merchant Council would be getting restless, would want to get home to their warm parlors and suppers.

Jellen Radmakker banged his gavel and called a vote.

Jesper already knew how Wylan would vote, and Dryden would follow as he often did. Dryden was not an impressive man in his own right, so he followed after Wylan—not openly, he was clever enough to deviate some and not look like a follower, but only on the smaller votes. When Wylan was this worked up, Dryden would follow. Similarly, Schenck and Boreg would oppose. Hoede would probably follow Wylan's side, Smit the opposing. Hoede, Dryden, and Wylan had come into their positions at close to the same time, but only Wylan, the youngest by far, had anything to bring besides more of the same. Hoede and Dryden tended to follow him more often than not.

When it came to the final vote, there were six for the military expansion and five against, with Van Aakster abstaining. Jesper still felt the adrenaline pumping through his veins, barely down from the kick it got when Van Aakster abstained. Abstained! Wild card!

A man could have as much fun at a political debate as he could at the card table if he looked for it.

The final vote cast was Radmakker's, and it drew an uncertain reaction from the crowd.

"Draw," announced Radmakker, "the Council will reconvene for an emergency session to resolve the matter at seven bells and half chime tomorrow. So ordered."

He banged his gavel, and with that, the meeting was adjourned.

"What was that?" someone in the gallery muttered.

"Waste of time," replied another.

"A damn show," complained a third.

Jesper let the crowd carry him along, listening as the discussion continued. Overall the people seemed malcontent with the outcome. He was inclined to agree. All the build-up to a cliffhanger? He was ready to be elated! He was ready to be furious! He was not ready to be postponed for a day. The Council would be especially fussed at the loss of a holiday. Sacred is Ghezen, but the winter holiday was apparently even more sacred than commerce.

On the first floor, Jesper fell back and let the crowds thin before starting against the tide.

He wasn't actually allowed in the Council chamber. No one was but the Councilmen, despite the stadwatch posted by the door recognizing Jesper. He didn't bother arguing. A few of the Councilmen passed, greeting him by name. Even those who didn't like Jesper or didn't like Wylan had accepted that the two were a pair. Merchers to the last, they kept their manners. Jesper was almost impressed not only by how many cast nervous glances at his revolvers, but how many managed to greet him anyway. Just for Wylan, Jesper did not antagonize the merchers. He could have casually pushed up his sleeves and given a glimpse of the crow and cup tattooed on his right arm—but the weather today was too cold for that, and Jesper was actively trying not to alienate the people Wylan had to work with.

Speaking of whom…

"Jes!"

Wylan's face lit up, a sight Jesper only had a moment to enjoy before Wylan was hugging him like it had been weeks rather than hours since they were last together. Jesper would never get tired of that.

"How was it?" Wylan asked, pulling back, searching Jesper's face for answers. He was sweating, pupils wide, marked the way Jesper used to be after an hour at the tables. The only difference was that once Wylan's jitters wore off, Jesper knew he would want—need—holding and soothing. Wylan didn't actually like public speaking. It happened to be necessary to his aims and he was good at it, but he didn't like it.

"Are you okay?"

"Fine now that you're here, my blessing," he said, pressing a kiss to Jesper's knuckles.

The endearment had rankled some the first time Jesper heard it. He knew Wylan meant it literally. Wylan had always accepted Jesper's powers more easily than Jesper himself accepted them. Maybe from someone else it would have been too much, but this was his Wylan, coupling the term with an open, adoring look, and Jesper had seen no choice but to accept that to Wylan, Jesper was a blessing.

"Come on," Wylan continued, "tell me everything. Where's your coat?"

The words were barely out but Wylan began removing his own coat. He had changed in the past few years, too—grown in confidence and just grown . Now they could kiss without Wylan standing on tiptoe.

By size alone, the idea of Jesper borrowing Wylan's coat was not absurd.

For every other reason, it was absolutely absurd.

Jesper stopped Wylan with a hand on his shoulder. "I don't need your coat," he said, straightening the lapels. He let his hands linger, brushing a fingertip against the necklace tucked under Wylan's shirt, eliciting a soft sigh from Wylan. Then he resettled the coat. The cold might bother him, but it wouldn't make him susceptible to illness. He was zowa. He was Grisha. Whatever you called him, that seed of magic kept him immune to germs and other feeble nonsense.

"Right, right," Wylan said. "I want to hear all about your exam!" he concluded, lacing their fingers together.

Jesper laughed. "No, you don't," he said.

"I do!"

No, he didn't.

"You've been waiting for the end of the semester since two weeks in," Jesper retorted. Usually Wylan had eagerly helped him study, listened to Jesper read off his class notes and textbooks and latched onto the information as easily as he had reports and business correspondence. This semester's course in public administration had challenged both of them to the edges of their patience. Necessary, for his goals, but dull as rocks.

That wasn't fair. Wylan liked rocks for their history. Jesper was less impressed with sedimentary striations, but he appreciated the shiny rocks they sometimes gave one another.

"Then I'm pleased it's here," Wylan said.

"I passed and it's over?"

Wylan brought their linked fingers to his lips for a kiss as they stepped outside. Jesper swallowed a shiver. The kiss was nice. The air briefly made him wish he had accepted Wylan's coat.

"You did great."

"You always say that."

Wylan shrugged. "You always do great."

"Excuses."

"I'm sorry you're so brilliant, Jesper."

And with that, their game had begun.

"I'm sorry you make such a great study buddy."

They had a lot of games between them. Mostly they were things Jesper did, like when he would hold Wylan and demand a toll to release him, but this one Wylan had invented. The apology game. No one stated the rules. They simply evolved and were and Jesper loved it. He loved how fun their games could be in better times and the framework those games gave them when bad memories threatened to overwhelm either of them.

Wylan snickered. "Study buddy," he repeated.

"One of your many talents."

"Unlike wordplay, which is clearly your kingdom."

"Mm," Jesper replied, feeling Wylan begin to lean against him. The adrenaline was fading. Jesper unlaced their fingers to wrap his arm around Wylan's shoulders, inviting Wylan to lean more into him. They had been together for nearly a year when Wylan finally hit his growth. He was still the smaller of the two and fit tidily under Jesper's arm. Very convenient, especially at times like this. The public meetings were necessary but they wore Wylan out—not that Jesper had any complaints, either about his closeness, or about the warm windbreak he made. This was truly not the weather in which to skip one's coat.

When Jesper directed them toward a coffee house, Wylan shook his head. "We can't, Jes. Let's stop off at home instead. You need a coat."

"I'll be fine," Jesper objected, though he wanted his coat. Stubbornness required him to object.

"Jesper Llewellyn, we are going home or I will buy you a new coat, but we will not go to Second Harbor without a coat on you."

"You're not fun when you call me Llewellyn."

"I'm sorry, my love. One of us has to be practical and it's not going to be you."

Jesper snorted. "Sure, Mister Practical, the guy trying to convince the Kerch Merchant Council to invest in its schools over its weapons."

"Just you wait, that vote's going my way tomorrow morning."

"Mm, all right. Home it is. Just think what people would say if Councilman Van Eck went around with his husband in a shabby coat."

"You're not my husband yet."

Jesper laughed. "Of course, gorgeous. Just one more ring and I'll stop being hilarious."

#grishabigbang #six of crows #six of crows fanfic #Jesper Fahey #Wylan Van Eck #Ketterdam Politics #my writing #gvbbcreation

13 notes · View notes

wordsdrippinginink · 6 years ago

Text

"We're married, right?" Ace asks, sounding more than slightly confused as he balances on the back of the couch, frowning at the letter he has in his hands. "I didn't dream up that horrible day with us both in uncomfortable suits and my brothers at the court house?"

"I would hope you didn't considering the trouble we had making sure that both of our separate organizations would buy the covers that the other was using," Marco agrees, his pistol spread out over the coffee table as he cleans it. "Why?"

"Because I just got a letter for you, with a picture of an attractive young woman and comments about setting the two of you up."

Marco raises his eyebrow, holding his hand out for the letter and skimming it over, "That's strange indeed. I'll call my father."

"It's from your dad?"

"It has his signature," Marco agrees folding the letter back up and setting it to the side. "Which is a bit odd, he knows that I'm not entirely interested in women and I don't remember if he was told that I got married, but it's not like I've been hiding it from him."

"So you're not going to leave me for a hot blonde?"

Marco laughs, "I have told you before, Ace. I've been telling you since we started dating seriously, if I'm going to leave you, I'll kill you. You know far too much about me and my family to be left alive."

"I'm obviously going to do the same," Ace says collapsing upside down on the couch and smiling softly as his head hovers just over the ground. "I mean, I did actually bring my real brothers to our wedding."

"Wait," Marco raises an eyebrow. "Luffy and Sabo are actually related to you?"

"We were all raised by Luffy's gramps, but we are brothers," Ace frowns. "We have dust bunnies under the coffee table. Who do we have cleaning the house when we're away?"

Marco hums, trying to remember, "I think it's my team, but this is going to be a difficult question to ask, since we both have to word this perfectly."

"It's you," Ace says wiggling his phone at Marco. "Deuce knows about this."

"You told Deuce?" Marco doesn't remember which one of Ace's people is Deuce, there's a number of Spades and he's never been able to fully remember who is supposed to be who within his own group. "Is that a safe idea?"

"Deuce is the one you tried to kill in Bolivia three years back. He saw your picture on my desk and thought it best, as a concerned friend, to let me know that my husband was going to kill me in my sleep."

"So you told him that you seduced me instead?"

Ace nods, "I told him that we have an accord about the whole working against each other technically and that I promised that you weren't seducing me into leaving the Spades. Because you won't be able to, no matter how attractive you are."

"My brothers would be very upset if I left the Whitebeard's, so it's not as if you can convince me to join the Spades. Did you tell him how we met?"

"Why would I do that?" Ace asks finally spinning to lay his head against the armrest. "I could tell Deuce that I caught you in the middle of a mission and you didn't notice me, so I spent the next two days seducing you or I could leave him in the dark."

Marco laughs, "Has Deuce done something to upset you?"

"He ruined our anniversary dinner!"

"Is that why you ran out in the middle of dinner?" Marco asks putting his pistol back together and setting it to the side after making sure that the safety was on. "I seem to remember that you were very excited and then you were gone."

"Deuce upset a spy and got himself into trouble, so I had to bail him out. I had the whole night planned out."

"I know you did," Marco assures, nudging Ace's legs off the couch long enough to take their place and rolling his eyes when Ace throws them over his lap. "It was a lovely night, even if you weren't able to stick around. Why were you so worried about it being perfect, by the way?"

Ace shrugs, "My dad apparently went all out for their anniversaries, so I thought that I would try my hand at making them nice. Did you not like our anniversary?"

"I think that I might have preferred something a bit quieter," Marco admits, sliding his hand up and down Ace's calf. It's hard to avoid the smile at the look of outrage on Ace's face. "I did like it, there was nothing wrong with it. But I like quiet nights more."

"Well, I'll remember that for this year."

"Are you already planning our anniversary?" Marco demands.

"Already planning?" Ace says raising an eyebrow. "More like planning since the end of our last anniversary. I will make sure that they're good and we have a nice time."

"Our anniversary is not a competition."

"You're only saying that because you're losing."

Marco laughs, patting Ace's ankle, "If you say so, my dear. Which reminds me, why do we have a small bag of bath bombs in our bathroom that say 'do not touch'?"

"Because they turn bathwater into acid," Ace answers digging his heels into Marco's thighs, revenge Marco was sure for laughing at him. "Luffy was very upset about the fact bath bombs weren't bombs so he talked to one of his friends."

"Does Luffy kill people?"

"No. Hilariously, Luffy is a spy."

"A spy," Marco chokes, feeling off balanced by the thought of Luffy as a spy. "I would believe Sabo, but Luffy?"

"Luffy is very good at it. And Sabo is technically a spy too. What do you know about Dragon?"

"The senator or the shadowy leader of that revolutionary group?"

"There's really not a difference and you should fire all of your people if they don't have that information already," Ace states. "Sabo is Dragon's direct apprentice and Luffy is his son. They're both spies and very good at it. Though, Luffy has a bad habit of being less for information and more for sabotage."

Marco frowns, "Do they know who I am too?"

"Of course. Do you think we would be married if they didn't? They've threatened more than one of my partners with death because they thought that they weren't good enough for me. I don't get to do the same."

"Because?"

"Luffy's not dating anyone and Sabo's girlfriend is hard to catch for a chance to threaten," Ace hums. "Can I test my massage skills?"

"Massage skills, you have some?"

Ace nods, "Yeah. I spent almost six months undercover as a masseuse in France, but it's not a skill that I need often enough to keep it in form. Need it for my mission next week and I thought you might enjoy one, since you look like your back still hurts from that throw last week."

"I have a bruise across my back, but if you want to test your skills, then you can. A massage would be nice."

"Perfect, because I found these very nice oils on my way home and I'm very excited to try them. They're not very strong smelling either."

"After dinner then?"

Ace hums, stretching slightly, "I don't want to cook. Could order something in? Have a quiet night and relax? I know you're going out for fact finding tomorrow, aren't you?"

"Hm," Marco agrees. "I think that sounds like a good plan. You're just lazy because it's raining, aren't you?"

"It makes me sleepy," Ace whines, pulling open the drawer on the side table and rifling through the menus. "Preference for dinner?"

64 notes · View notes

thephantomcasebook · 7 years ago

Text

Wanted to spend another week with Chapter four of “The Wayfaring Stranger” so here’s a Preview.

County of Grantham March 1936

In the Season of 1936 there were many topics of fascination that percolated through London. The Spanish War, the coming grandeur of the Berlin Olympics that the Third Reich was planning, and of course, the Grantham County Power Plant. It seemed a strange topic, all things considered, but it was the details that most people were interested in. It was the first, fully modern, electrical plant in all of Yorkshire, which was a feat in itself. But the more interesting aspect had been that the power coils and generators, which cranked out a much more powerful and efficient charge, had been designed by Ms. Sybil Branson herself.

Never before had such a thing been attempted by a grown woman, much less, by a girl who was yet to have even been presented to the king … which ever brother that might be these days. There were many that doubted the validity and safety of these mad plans presented. Some called it the very apex of what it is to spoil a child. What qualifications did Sybil Branson have to take on such an experimental task? They warned Lord Grantham of the perils. He being, not only the grandfather, but one of the patrons of the new plant, along with his daughter Mary and Grandson George Crawley, who also had his reservations.

But George’s troubles were for other reasons than a lack of faith in his best friend.

It had been an uphill battle for the girl. She worked long and hard on her plans and blueprints, living in the quiet exclusivity of Crawley House, away from the distractions of Downton Abbey life. There were many long nights, George hunched over the study table pouring over medieval maps and texts, while over at his desk a lovely girl scribbled her formulas and calculations. She sipped coffee, pencil behind her ear, soothing her doubts in the smiling picture of both her mommy and mama on George’s desk. Every time she had misgivings about the enterprise, feeling that George wasn’t voicing some objection, if only to spare her. She only had to see the two women that were everything to her, and remind herself that if they could be revolutionary in their time, than so could she. The only thing she wished was that there was someone to tell her she was on the right track. The old professors, like all good Englishmen, were afraid of change. The board of directors was biting their nails in anticipation, good or ill, of the young girl’s designs.

Her family wasn’t any help either. George had some idea of what she was talking about, but recused himself of opinion, much to her anger. Donk pretended he knew about what his gorgeous genius was talking about. And mama just smiled and blinked, making it seem all so encouraging by kissing her on the cheek with as much enthusiasm as Lady Mary Crawley showed anything. But Daddy didn’t hear a word. Tom Branson would soon glaze over at his daughter’s passion, spending more time glowing proudly at his rare and special girl rather than the plans spread out before them. God, in those moments, had he wished Sybil had been there to see what a marvelous creature she gave her life to bring into this world. But when he began stroking her hair, the girl would only huff and bump his chest with her shoulder in chastisement of his distracted mind.

When the time came to present to the board, she was going up against two other firms in the whole Empire. She fretted all night, wondering what she should wear. She had kept her Aunt Rose, Mrs. Baxter, and Granny up half the night, raiding her, Aunt Rose, and even their Granny’s wardrobes for just the right clothes. Just when it seemed all hope was lost, she came into her room to find that Mama and Anna were laying out a new outfit for such an occasion. Lady Mary told the girl, with great arrogance, that she might not know how her daughter’s “Contraptions” might work, but she jolly well knew how to dress for success. Both her mama and Anna swore it as “the ticket”, the secret weapon she needed to get over the top. It was true that when she stepped out of her daddy’s car with Thomas Barrow, her temporary assistant, there was not a snappier looking young engineer in the world. With legs born for those high heels, body meant for that satin skirt, and combination of sun glasses and hat that oozed young and professional.

When she arrived with Donk’s suitcase, rolled blue prints under arm, and coolly confident smirk, she was the talk of the Ripon office building.

The words of the day were affordable, modern, and easy to maintain. Sybbie, with Thomas’s help, presented her new machine to the world. Every weapon at her disposable was used on the board. She smirked at Donk, used Mama’s familiar turn of phrase to entice her. She near abused her credit as a daughter of a ‘working class bloke’ on those who valued such things. And for everyone else … well, Sybil Branson had been and would always be quite the fetchingly beautiful thing. But it was her charm that won the day, for it was considerable and inebriating once she got going. A girl raised by Ladies Cora and Mary Crawley was born to turn heads with her wit and social skills that rivaled the queens and princesses of old. But in the end, she found that the only hold out was George. He sat quietly, forefinger curled under nose, thumb under chin, elbow propped on the arm rest. He was a sphinx, unreadable, hardened to every trick employed by the lovely and fashionable girl. And when she was done, soaking in the standing ovation with a relieved smile, her heart sank to see that George was the only one still sitting, the weight of the world in his eyes.

For two days, the girl showed up to wait outside the deliberations. She paced the hallway, idly played a walking game of hopscotch with the linoleum tiling, and sat with her hand intertwined with Thomas’s in her lap as they stared at the door. But on the final day, suddenly, the door flew open to the sound of George matching shouts with their Donk and a waspish Lady Mary.

“Then, I’ll see you in Hell!”

The Earl and his pale and sleek business woman daughter looked shocked and deeply insulted at George’s final retort to Lady Mary’s parting words. Sybbie was also shocked watching a dark and furious George stalking away. His goggles were already on his forehead, while he shoved his hands into his long and supple leather gauntlets in disgust. Suddenly, papers and plans fell to the linoleum floor of the Ripon office building when Freddie Moorsum pursued the younger man down the hall. His glasses were obscured on a face in distress. He walked fast after George, though he was unable to keep up with the young racer.

“You can’t walk away, M’Lord! The county, the boys, they’re all counting on you to hold those toffy, high society, bastards, accountable! If you walk away from this you’ll damn yourself and it’ll haunt the county for generations! You know I’m right, you fool! Come back and fight damn ya! TAR YOUR HEELS COWARD!” He roared at the young man that disappeared around the corner, bumping a secretary whose files and papers went fluttering everywhere.

“Sir, I believe His Lordship is quite done with this conversation …” Thomas Barrow, ever the butler, and ever the guardian of Downton Abbey’s nursery, no matter how old the former occupants had gotten. He halted any further pursuit of a clearly enraged Master George.

“Get off me, Chump!” The pencil of a man with parted dark hair and his mother’s face under glasses slapped the svelte and athletic butler’s hand off his shoulder. He then turned to Sybbie who was watching in silent confusion. “Congratulations, and long live Morgana Le Fey, Queen of bones!” He snarled at the girl.

“I think that’s quite enough of that, Mr. Moorsum!” Lady Mary Crawley said with a dark look of rancor as she exited the room. It looked as if she might have left the conference room in order to go after George to continue their argument in private. But in his absence, and very outraged that someone would talk to her daughter in such a manner, Mary was cold and angry when the rest of the board exited.

“You’re all fools! You are all damned fools! They’ll die and all for a young girls pretty smile and tight arse in silk!” He shouted.

“How dare …!”

“Barrow, might you escort Mr. Moorsum out!” Lord Sinderby immediately bared Lord Grantham, who had made to aggressively stride forward in defense of his cherished and beloved little girl.

But there was not a hint of remorse in the man’s eyes for saying what he had. Somehow he thought, even for the friendship of his late mother, that Lord Grantham would see things clearly. Instead, he was infatuated with his genius granddaughter, believing that she could do no wrong. He took it as a slight and a betrayal to his mother’s memory.

“This way, sir!” Thomas Barrow’s hands were made out of iron in his angry grip on the lapels of the Engineer.

“You fools! The whole lot of ya! You’re all fools!” He raged in tears as he was dragged away by Mr. Barrow, Lord Sinderby following to make sure the accoster of his niece and nephew was truly gone.

For a long moment the raven haired young woman watched with a frown as her competitor disappeared with the strong arming Thomas, and a glaring Uncle Atticus with his hands behind his back. When she turned back her Donk looked incredibly rattled by the whole situation. But when she asked what had happened, Lady Mary only told her not to worry about it. But the girl saw that her mama’s eyes were cast down the hallway to the sound of George Crawley’s Indian Motorcycle revving angrily in the distance. They all flinched when they heard him speed off in a terrifying lit.

Sensing the trouble that was entering the girl’s mind, Lord Grantham ensured her, unconvincingly, that it was just the usual “Greek Drama” of the losing side of these local contract disputes. However, she had certainly not thought that George was one of these sore losers. But when she voiced this opinion, no one said a word for a long moment. Till, Lord Grantham assured his granddaughter that George wasn’t not on her side, it was only a question of something else entirely that had nothing to do with her. But she could tell that whatever George and Freddie Moorsum had fought with them over, for the last two days, had penetrated their Donk’s mind. And his heir’s point of argument, in particular, was entombed at the very center of his thoughts. Possibly, it even found incredible validity in the receding tide of the infighting. But Lord Grantham only smirked when catching Sybbie’s tenuously inquisitive eyes.

The old man took her in his arms paternally.

Suddenly, a big, toothy, grin came over the young woman’s pallid face when her grandfather whispered the word “Congratulations” in her ear while in their deep embrace. When she slipped back in his arms, mouth agape in shock, the old lord only nodded his head. It was just in time for Atticus and Thomas’s return. The girl gave a squeal and leapt into the butler’s arms, shouting to the roof tops that they did it. But Barrow only smoothed the girl’s hair back and corrected that she was the one who did it. To that the man got a kiss on the cheek. In fact, they all did, even those who were not her family. But when Lady Mary, half-teasingly, reminded her daughter that an excess of joy was as vulgar as an excess of tears, the girl jovially pounced on her mama. She swept her off her feet, pelting her entire face in a cascade of kisses in her arms as she rushed down the hall. The girl looked like a Hammer Film monster with its bride as she shuffled awkwardly with her mama in her arms. Before turning the corner, a resign but clearly annoyed Mary made a motion for everyone to follow.

When they got back home from Ripon, both family and staff were there to throw Sybbie a surprise celebration. The girl had never been so touched, getting suddenly weepy to see her granny standing with Marigold, Rachel, Aunt Edith, and Aunt Rose, along with all the faces of her happy childhood. All of them there to cheer and celebrate what she thought, at the time, would be her greatest accomplishment in her entire life. There was cake and punch, and a celebratory dinner planed with all of her and Marigold’s new friends for later. Her Donk stopped the festivities, momentarily, so that he might say a few words of his genius granddaughter. But all he could find in the moment, looking at her with such love, was that her mommy would be proud. She would be so very, very, proud of this day.

It was the only thing that Sybil Afton Branson had only ever wanted to hear all of her life.

#Downton Abbey #George Crawley #Sybbie Branson #Mary Crawley #Robert Crawley #Sorry for the Length #George has long hair because he just came back from years in Depression America #He is an extremely disheveled teenager #With a lot of issues with Mary and Robert

1 note · View note

scared-aquarius · 8 years ago

Text

signs as haunted places in New Jersey

(I’m starting a series where I assign haunted places from each state to the signs. I’m starting with New Jersey because that’s where I’m from! Also the Red Mill is located in my hometown so I thought that was cool. Ok anyways)

Aries: The Pine Barrens, NJ- The Pine Barrens, also known as the Pinelands or the Pines, is a heavily forested area that covers more than 7 counties across the state of New Jersey. This area has been the site of many legends and is also the alleged home of the infamous Jersey Devil. The Jersey Devil is described as a kangaroo-like creature with the head of a dog and the face of a horse, bat-like leathery wings, horns and a tail. There have been many sightings over the years, specifically in South Jersey, leading many to believe that the Jersey Devil actually exists or is at least a real animal. Some people believe that the vastness and remote nature of the 1 million acre Pine Barrens could allow a species to remain hidden over time. Other legends include the ghost of Captain Kidd, a pirate who supposedly hid his treasure in Barnegat Bay. Some locals say that they’ve seen his ghost wandering along the beach. There are two other ghosts who are actually known to be kind spirits. There is the ghost of a man named James Still, more popularly known as The Black Doctor, who was a man studying medicine in the 19th century who wasn’t permitted to do so because of his race. Undiscouraged, however, he went into seclusion in The Pine Barrens to study his textbooks and also learned herbal remedies. Some say he died from lynching after being discovered and others say he died of a heart attack. His ghost however is still said to come to the aid of injured or stranded travelers in The Pine Barrens. Lastly, there is a white stag that many have claimed to see. The stag supposedly is known to prevent disasters. If you see the white stag, it is supposed to bring good luck.

Taurus: The Devil’s Tree, Bernards Township NJ- The Devil’s Tree is a single oak tree with some dead limbs in an undeveloped field. A common claim is that Bernards Township was the central headquarters for the Ku Klux Klan in New Jersey during colonial times and the tree was used to lynch black people and rebellious slaves. Others say that a farmer hanged himself from the tree after murdering his own family. The legend says that the tree is cursed and anyone who tried to cut it down will “come to an untimely end”. It is said that those who damage or disrespect the tree, either by peeing on it, carving into it or even making remarks about the tree while nearby, will soon come to some sort of harm. This harm will often come in the form of a car accident or experiencing a major breakdown while trying to leave the field in which the tree lives. Other legends claim that if you touch the tree, your hands will turn black if you try to eat. In winter, the ground beneath the tree is allegedly free from snow regardless of how recent the snowfall was or how much has fallen. Some have claimed that the tree is occasionally warm to the touch regardless of the season or time of day. It is thought that this is because it is disguised as a tree but is really a portal to Hell.

Gemini: The Union Hotel, Flemington NJ- This hotel was built in 1878 during the Victorian Era. In 1934, it stood witness to the media event that was dubbed the “trial of the century”, when Bruno Hauptmann was accused of the kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh’s infant son which was tried at the courthouse across the street. The hotel became the base for journalists and the temporary home of the jurors. Most recently, the hotel was used as a bar and restaurant with the upper floors being blocked off. Previous staff members recall many paranormal encounters that they had. One former manger says that one night after a bouncer had locked the doors, the staff were all sitting around having a drink. Suddenly the locked doors flew open wide and a cold wind swept past them. When the bouncer went to go re-close the doors, he saw a pair of disembodied black leather shoes walking up the main stairway. He freaked out and ran out of the hotel. The manager also recalled of a time a waitress was going up the stairs when she heard a disembodied voice humming a lullaby. She was so afraid that she ran out of the building and quit. Other former employees remember constantly seeing a young girl with dark hair in a fancy dress running around the dining room. She is also said to play with a doll on the main stairway and is known to trip people. There are stories of ghosts ordering drinks at the bar and then disappearing. There was also a time when an employee was cleaning tables and saw two people chasing each other who then suddenly vanished into thin air. No one is sure of the origin of these possible specters. However, there is one story about a man who was murdered in the basement of the hotel.

Cancer: Red Mill, Clinton NJ- The Red Mill was built in 1810 as an industrial mill. For the first few years, it was used as a wool processing plant. Milling was very dangerous work and at the time, there were no safety latches or guards on the machinery. Many stories have been passed down about the workers who met their untimely death while on the job. By 1820, however, the wool business had failed in the downturn for cloth. Ralph Hunt, the owner at the time, lost hundreds of acres because of this. Today, the Red Mill is now the main building of the Red Mill Museum Village, which includes the mill, a 19th century one-room schoolhouse, carriage sheds and other quarry village buildings. Tours are available nowadays and the most popular paranormal encounter is that of a man wearing period clothing and a black hat who doesn’t speak who roams the third floor. Many visitors have claimed to see this ghost as well as feeling like someone is touching them or tugging on their clothes. Another spirit that is said to frequently be seen is that of a young girl around the age of 6 or 7 who died around 1900. She was the daughter of one of the mill’s owners and was supposedly very fond of coming to the mill with her father. Additional grisly things that have happened on the grounds is a mill worker fell head-first into a mill hopper and suffocated. There is also a story of a young boy who was cleaning his weapon in the tenant building and accidentally shot himself. Another member had a heart attack and died on the steps of the tenant building. Strange occurrences at the tenant house include footsteps on a vacant second floor and bells swinging back and forth on their own. Now, because this mill is in my hometown, I just want to share that I believe I have seen the ghost of the little girl for myself. I was in town with my friend and was walking along the bridge towards the mill and I saw a girl who was extremely pale from head to toe and it seemed almost blurry, like when your eyes water and everything looks skewed. I turned to tell my friend but when I looked back she was gone. I know this sounds super fake but I swear that’s what happened. I was so freaked out that I had to go home.

Leo: Clinton Road, West Milford NJ- Considered to possibly be the most haunted road in America, this 10 mile stretch of road definitely has a sinister past. The road and the land around it have been known to be teeming with paranormal occurrences. It is said that if you drive down the road, you may encounter ghosts, witch gatherings, Satanists, the KKK or even strange creatures like hellhounds or mutated monkeys. It is also known to be a place where murderers have disposed of bodies in the surrounding woods- with one actual recorded case of this happening. In 1983, a body was found in the woods after a cyclist noticed vultures pecking at it. An autopsy revealed that the man had ice crystals in the blood vessels near his heart, suggesting that someone had tried to freeze the body before dumping it. It came out that he was someone who had affiliations with the Mafia. Later, Richard Kuklinski, aka “The Iceman”, confessed to the murder. Some well-known ghost sightings involve a young boy at a bridge who apparently was struck by a car and killed. Legend says that he will push anyone who looks over the edge into the water in order to save them from being run over like he was. There are also accounts of phantom vehicles, specifically a black pick-up truck that will tail you and flash its headlights before completely disappearing. Other ghosts include two park rangers who died on the job in 1939 and a girl driving a Camaro who died in a car crash in 1988. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or not, I think most would agree that driving down Clinton Road at night would be one of the creepiest things one could experience.

Virgo: White Hill Mansion, Fieldsboro NJ- This mansion was constructed over 250 years ago. Robert Field, a successful merchant, decided to settle down in New Jersey. This proved to be more of a curse than a blessing as he drowned in the Delaware River under mysterious circumstances in 1775. After his death, he left his young wife, Mary Field, to care for the 600 acre property on her own. Mary raised her 3 children in the home throughout the Revolutionary War. She tried to remain impartial, however there were many times when her house was invaded and searched. Over the years many people have lived in the mansion, including senators, rum runners, prostitutes, inventors, and by the early 1920s the house was converted into an upscale restaurant. Over the years, workers began to notice strange things happening at the mansion. Many visitors reported seeing a shadow man who lurked near the basement and would then disappear. Disembodied voices are very frequent according to people who have visited the mansion. Other phenomena include phantom sounds of children playing in the nursery and footsteps going up and down the stairs at night. There is also supposedly a ghost of a former servant who identified herself during an EVP session and is known to be very talkative and enthusiastic about interacting with visitors. During restoration efforts, over 30,000 artifacts were found that suggest the mansion was built atop an ancient Native American settlement which some believe may contribute to the paranormal activity.

Libra: Trenton Psychiatric Hospital, Trenton, NJ- This hospital, originally named New Jersey State Lunatic Asylum, opened in 1848 and held a mere 86 patients. The first superintendent of the hospital, Horace Buttolph, provided excellent care for his patients and was a good man. Then, Dr. Henry Cotton took over in 1907 and the horror began. He believed that infection caused mental illness, so to test his theories he would remove his patient’s teeth, tonsils, limbs, testicles, ovaries, gall bladders, colons, stomaches, spleens, cervixes, or any other body part that had the slightest sign on infection. This was done often against the consent of the patient and the family of the patient. Some psychiatrists questioned his work, however the New Jersey State Senate approved of his treatments. He would continue to kill his patients until 1930, when he retired. Only after his death in 1933 would his work be reviewed to find that his medical procedures killed 45% of his patients. Thousands of others were left permanently mutilated. The most common ghost sighting at the asylum is Dr. Cotton himself, who people have claimed seeing roam the hallway near his old office wearing a white doctor’s coat. People have also reported hearing disembodied voices, mainly muffled screams and moans as well as being touched. Orbs have been caught on camera, each having a strange blue glow to them. There are also claims of seeing patients without limbs, or the limbs themselves on old medical tables before suddenly disappearing.

Scorpio: Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, Morris Plains NJ- Originally known as New Jersey Lunatic Asylum, this hospital opened in 1876 and housed over 7,500 patients. Overcrowding was definitely an issue. The building was made to house only around 1,500 people. The patient population peaked in the 1950s with the return of WWII soldiers who had PTSD. Greystone adopted controversial treatment for its patients, regularly administering Insulin shock therapy and electroconvulsive therapy to the veterans. In the 1970s and 1980s, deinstitutionalization became more popular and the hospital officially closed its doors in 2003. There had always been much bad press about the hospital, including stories of patient suicides, patient on patient violence, the sexual assault of patients and a twice-convicted rapist escaping from the hospital. Since it’s shutting down, many people have gone and explored the old abandoned building. People have reported feeling watched and “not being able to get out quick enough”, especially in the dark underground tunnels beneath the hospital which were used to transport dead bodies. There are also a few accounts of seeing full-bodied apparitions in the windows as well as in the shower area in the basement. The building was demolished in 2015.

Sagittarius: Burlington County Prison, Mount Holly NJ- This prison operated from 1811 to 1965. It was known for public hangings and also housed some notorious people, including “The Boston Strangler” (Albert DeSalvo). The prison was known to use thinner than average rope, which led to prolonged suffering. One of the first executions there was the hanging of a man named Joel Clough who, in 1833, stabbed Mary W. Hamilton, a woman he was obsessed with. On July 26, 1833, he was hanged and buried on the grounds of the prison. He is said to haunt the dungeon, a room where he was kept leading up to his death. People have reported hearing the chain that originally held him rattle as well as hearing moaning and feeling cold spots. A murder also took place in the prison basement in 1920. One night when a guard went to deliver medicine to a prisoner, the prisoner struck him with an iron rod and killed him instantly. The prisoner then went to the kitchen and murdered another prisoner who was on cooking duty. People have reported seeing a shadow in the corridor where the guard was murdered. There are also claims of seeing a figure underneath the stairs. Other paranormal occurrences include disembodied voices and screams and workers have claimed their tools get moved around or go missing. Many people say they feel like they’re constantly being watched and some have even claimed that they’ve felt someone touching them.

Capricorn: Lambertville High School, Lambertville NJ- This high school was built in 1854. In 1926, much of the building had been destroyed by a fire caused by arson but was later remodeled and rebuilt in 1927. More tragedy struck the school in 1935 when a boy from a rival high school (New Hope Buckeyes) was killed while playing the traditional “Turkey Bowl” football game. His neck broke after a particularly rough tackle and his head had almost completely turned around. The parents of the boy who was killed petitioned that football was too dangerous and that New Hope should give it up. New Hope still does not have a football team to this day. His spirit is said to linger on the grounds of the school. People have reported seeing a ghostly figure in the windows. Legend says that if you challenge the Buckeye on the old overgrown football field, a strange mist will form and you will suddenly see something charging at you. The school was closed down in 1955 as it had become too small and outdated for the growing area. The building then became a popular hang out for teenagers who would regularly go and get drunk. Allegedly, two teenage boys died under unexplained circumstances while visiting the building. In 2012, the old high school was demolished however visitors who have gone after the fact claim that they still feel cold spots and get an uneasy feeling when standing in the spot where the building once stood. Some have also said that they’ve seen the apparition of the boy who was killed.

Aquarius: Gates of Hell, Clifton NJ- The Gates of Hell drain stands out from the others nearby because of its square shape and also because it has no water flowing in or out of it. There is a ladder inside which allows visitors to climb in and explore the connecting drains. Reportedly, the drains go hundreds of feet underground and has 7 layers. They are said to be filled with the remains of satanic sacrifices including bones, decaying carcasses, crosses and more. It is rumored that the drains used to be frequently used by satanic worshippers and the KKK because of it’s concealed nature. There is also supposedly a deep underground room that is used to summon the devil. There are tales of people drowning in the drains while trying to explore them. People have reported hearing faint chanting, faint footsteps and thumps as well as seeing dark figures in the distance. The entrance of the drain as well as some of the inside is covered in graffiti, some of it being satanic. If you ever decide to visit this place, be careful and don’t go too far deep because many are known to have gotten lost in the complex draining tunnels.

Pisces- The Grenville Hotel, Bay Head NJ- Opening in 1890, this hotel was known as one of the most luxurious summer hotels that populated the shore. It is still in operation today, and many guests have checked out with stories to tell. Both guests and employees report hearing the sound of children playing and laughing as well as seeing people dressed in period clothing. There are claims of hearing stomping down empty hallways and footsteps in unoccupied rooms. Many guests have said that they have seen imprints on their bed, as if someone was sitting or lying there. One guest even claimed that they saw a man in a dark suit with a top hat one night in their bathroom, who then suddenly disappeared. Later that night, their doorknob wouldn’t stop rattling. Another guest claimed to see a woman in a white dress in their room at night walking towards their bed. The owner says that all of the supposed ghosts are friendly. The third floor is supposedly the most haunted floor, specifically rooms 303 and 304 where disembodied voices can frequently be heard. Some believe the ghosts to be that of the former owners and possibly a guest who perished shortly after the hotel was first opened.

Pennsylvania

(Let me know what state I should research next...)

616 notes · View notes

noritermain · 4 years ago

Text

Las Vegas 먹튀검증업체 Music Video: For Night Game of Poker, Blackjack, Roulette Wheel & Slots

Player must fold or raise.-If player folds he forfeits his cards, ante bet, and side bet (if made)-If player raises then he must make a raise wager exactly equal to twice the ante-The dealer will turn over his other four cards http://query.nytimes.com/search/sitesearch/?action=click&contentCollection&region=TopBar&WT.nav=searchWidget&module=SearchSubmit&pgtype=Homepage#/토토검증업체 The actual rules of Caribbean Stud poker are simple. The dealer at the table will deal out 5 cards, face down, to each player at the table that has placed the initial bet (ante) on the table. As of 2015, Japan's pachinko market generates more gambling revenue than that of Las Vegas, Macau and Singapore combined. The Canton of Baccarat includes 20 communes: Azerailles, Baccarat proper, Bertrichamps, Brouville, Deneuvre, Flin, Fontenoy-la-Joûte, Gélacourt, Glonville, Hablainville, Lachapelle, Merviller, Mignéville, Montigny, Pettonville, Reherrey, Thiaville-sur-Meurthe, Vacqueville, Vaxainville, and Veney.

After settling a player's Ante, Bet and Caribbean Stud Bonus Wagers, the dealer shall then settle the Progressive Payout Wager, if offered by the licensee. A winning Progressive Payout Wager shall be paid irrespective of whether the player's five-card Poker hand outranks the dealer's hand. Occasionally other games of local interest may be found in some casinos, such as two-up in Australia, banca francesa in Portugal, boule in France, and kalooki in Britain. This simple innovation, patented during the Civil War, was revolutionary: Indices allowed players to hold their cards in one hand, tightly fanned. Chinese lotteries are not documented before 1847 when the Portuguese government of Macau decided to grant a license to lottery operators.

In most gambling games it is customary to express the idea of probability in terms of odds against winning. The popularization of Piquet in gaming houses and royal courts across a brave, new and victorious France explains why they began to omit the 2, 3, 4 and 5 from the pack. Piquet only requires 36 cards. Likewise, Écarté, which became popular there in the mid 17th century, and eventually evolved into the game of Euchre among the French Colonists in America, New Orleans. If the player loses all bets placed are lost. If the player Folds they lose their Ante bet. If the player wins payouts are decided as follows;* If the player wins and the dealer does not qualify the Ante bet is paid out at 1 to 1 while the Call bet pushes. The Castellany belonged to the Diocese of Metz. In 1305 Henri, first lord of Blâmont from the House of Salm, dedicated Deneuvre for the Bishop of Metz and, to ensure its safety, he built the Tower of Voués at the bottom of the spur. A suburb formed at its foot: this was the origin of Baccarat (which has been spelt Bacquarat, Bakarroit, Beckarrat, and Backarrat)

One thing to remember about the dealer’s hand, however, is that it must reach a certain level of strength to qualify for a win. In the case of Caribbean Stud Poker, the dealer must make a hand of ace-king high or better in order to qualify. To visualize dealer qualification, the worst qualifying hand a dealer can hold is A K 2 3 4, while the best non-qualifying hand stands at A Q J 10 9. There are several methods of legitimately gaining an advantage playing online Caribbean Stud Poker games. By and large these involve the use of promotions, bonuses and comp point systems as the games by themselves – assuming the game is functioning in a correct fashion and there are no errors in the paytable – will not provide any additional information about the cards and shuffles after every hand.National fervor saw the development of a number of variances in suit symbol design. The Spanish, for example, changed the thin, light, sharp pointed rapiers of Swords into heavy, two-edged Roman blades. Similarly, the narrow batons of earlier Italian and Mamaluke designs became heavy clubs lumpy with nodules. Both these weapons were set out in the Spanish designs, in straight and parallel patterns in contrast to the interlaced renditions of the Italian pack. The card counting system does nothing but gives you a technique to estimate the ratio of low and high cards in a deck to know the amount of cash to bet with a point value of +1 or_1. Each time you deal with aces, you subtract one, and each time you deal with a low card, you have a plus one.

Slot machines and (from the 1980s) video poker machines are the economic mainstay of American casinos, the income resulting from high volume, rapid play at sums ranging from five cents to a dollar, and the ability to adjust machines for any desired profit. Another very common game offered in most casinos is keno. This reduces the maximum payout percentage to 98.39% for players betting five coins per hand to receive the Royal Flush bonus.먹튀검증업체Players wagered on particular horses to "win", "place" or "show", as with betting in horse racing. The payoffs varied from horse to horse, depending on how many times and where the horse appeared on the rings. Odds ranged from 40 to 1 for the "longshot" to win, down to 1-2 for the "favorite" to show. Before that, the card counting players had their estimation system when they had an advantage, but the process was spontaneous.

For example, if a player decides not to wager a place bet mid-roll but wishes to keep the chips on the number, he or she may request the bet be "not working" or "Off". The roulette table usually imposes minimum and maximum bets, and these rules usually apply separately for all of a player's inside and outside bets for each spin.Reach - In Japan, a player will yell "Reach" when he/she is one space away from a bingo. If a player's first two cards are an ace and a "ten-card" (a picture card or 10), giving a count of 21 in two cards, this is a natural or "blackjack."

For this purpose aces count as 1 or 11, face cards as 10, and the rest at their index value. This means that over the long run, the game will return 10 percent of all wagers it accepts to the casino that owns it.The game's name inspired a game show of the same name. We can help you learn how to play a wide variety of casino games, as we’ve compiled guides on all the most popular ones.

Like a lot of the United States in the 1950s, Las Vegas was an awfully racist place. Most commonly these bets are known as "the French bets" and each covers a section of the wheel. For the sake of accuracy, zero spiel, although explained below, is not a French bet, it is more accurately "the German bet".Casino games like Roulette, Acey Duecy and Money Wheel have bingo counterparts that are permitted to be played under bingo licenses in many parts of the country. The number she places it on hits. She tries to explain to the dealer that she did not want to place the bet, but he does not understand and thinks she wants to let it ride.

0 notes