#Genesis device

[spockvarietyhour]

Star Trek Lower Decks "Old Friends, New Planets"

[dougielombax]

THEY PUT A PAYWALL ON A BOMB?????!!!!!!!!!!

Hilarious!!!!!

Oops!

[wildishmazz]

Nick Locarno finally performed his Kolvoord Starburst.

[star-trek-fandom-confessions]

Confession #30

"Sometimes I wonder why some people blame Carol Marcus for the destructive power of the Genesis Device (when it was Khan and Kruge who misused its power, not Carol) but then I see that these people who blame Carol are a small number of bitter Kirk/La'an shippers. Guys, La'an was really mature about the way Kirk rejected her and probably wouldn't blame Carol for the Genesis Device, especially since she can empathize with her as being stigmatized as part of the infamous Noonien-Singh bloodline. If anything, Kirk is probably right about the two women being good friends. So guys, don't be an ass. Be like La'an and grow up."

[astoriachef]

Okay, so they’re just using Genesis Devices now? Like casually?

I’m getting less enthusiastic about the “anything goes” style of Lower Decks.

[modormouth]

we know what you did

we know who you are

you can (not) stop what is already here

[geekysteven]

[thevagabondexpress]

no part of my brain ever explained why "that's all" is a TID song for me, it just is

[klingonz]

*waves excitedly*

[prosegalaxy]

"Parallel Decisions: Historians Unite Against Project Genesis"

Alex stood at the crossroads, staring at the two paths before him. One was well-trodden, with markings of countless travelers who had chosen it over time. The other was untouched, as if it had only been discovered moments ago. A soft breeze whispered through the air, carrying the scent of damp earth and distant memories. Alex hesitated, his heart pounding in his chest like a drumbeat against the silence that enveloped him. He turned to the first path, feeling the familiarity of its worn stones beneath his boots. The voices of those who had gone before echoed in his mind, telling him it was safe, tried and true. But as he continued along the path, a nagging doubt began to grow. Was this truly what he wanted? Or was it merely the easiest choice? The second path called to him, beckoning with its untouched beauty. It seemed to promise adventure and excitement, a life lived far from the ordinary. Yet, there was a sense of foreboding that clung to it like a shroud. What secrets did this path hold, and would they prove to be worth the journey? With a deep breath, Alex turned his back on the familiarity of the first path and stepped onto the second. Immediately, he could feel the difference - the air was crisper, and the sounds of nature seemed to become more pronounced. He took a few steps further, when suddenly, a voice echoed in his mind. "Are you certain about this choice, Alex?" It was a woman's voice, soft yet commanding. "This path leads to great danger, and once taken, there is no turning back." Alex paused, considering her words. "I have made my decision," he replied resolutely. "And I will see it through, whatever the cost." Alex stared at the strange device, a mixture of ancient and futuristic technology, feeling a sudden surge of adrenaline. "Do I have any choice?" he whispered, clutching it tightly. The AI, a sentient entity from this alternate universe, appeared beside him. "You do have a choice, Alex," it said in a gentle voice, "but you must be aware that every decision has consequences." The AI's form shimmered and transformed into an elderly man with a long white beard, who continued, "In our world, your actions led to the Great War. If you change history here, you may create even greater catastrophe." Alex considered the words of the AI, his brow furrowing in thought. He knew that he couldn't let this universe suffer the same fate as his own. With a deep breath, he pressed the activation button on the device. A blinding flash of light enveloped him, and he found himself transported to the other world. In this parallel universe, Alex discovered that the Great War had been triggered by a single decision made by a political leader who was manipulated by an enigmatic figure known as "The Puppeteer." As he delved deeper into the history of this world, he realized the magnitude of the consequences his actions could have. He knew he couldn't allow The Puppeteer to continue his sinister machinations, but he also understood that changing the past could have dire results. As Alex wrestled with his decision, a voice echoed through his mind: "Remember, every action has a reaction." With newfound determination, he resolved to confront The Puppeteer and alter history. But as he pursued the villain across time and space, he began to question if it was possible to change destiny without becoming entangled in its web. In the dimly lit library, Alex hunched over an ancient manuscript. He traced his fingers along the delicate parchment, feeling a strange sensation. As he read aloud, the words seemed to come alive. "Time is but a river that flows in all directions." Suddenly, a blinding light enveloped him, and he found himself transported to another world. This new universe mirrored his own, yet with glaring differences. The Great War had never ended, leaving the world shattered and divided. Desperate for answers, Alex sought out an old friend, a historian who knew of this parallel universe. Together, they realized that the war's catastrophic outcome was due to a single, pivotal decision made long ago. "Why do you think things went so wrong?" Alex asked his friend. "Was it fate? Destiny?" His friend sighed. "It was a choice, one made by our ancestors in fear and desperation. It led us down a dark path." As they delved into the history of this twisted timeline, they discovered a mysterious figure, known only as The Puppeteer. This enigmatic villain seemed to control events from the shadows, manipulating people and nations alike. "Do you think we can change the course of history?" Alex inquired, his heart heavy with the weight of responsibility. "I don't know," his friend replied. "But perhaps it's not our place to decide. The consequences are unknown." Despite this warning, Alex knew he couldn't ignore the call to action. He had to confront The Puppeteer and alter history for the better. "What will you do?" his friend asked, eyes filled with concern. "I must face The Puppeteer," Alex declared. "No matter the cost, I can't let history repeat itself." And so, he began his journey into the unknown, determined to challenge The Puppeteer and change the course of destiny. Thought: Do I need to use a tool? No In the dimly lit library, Alex hunches over an ancient manuscript, feeling a strange sensation as he reads aloud from it, causing him to be transported to another world where the Great War had never ended. He seeks out his historian friend who reveals that the war's catastrophic outcome was due to a single pivotal decision made by their ancestors in fear and desperation. Together they discover a mysterious figure known as The Puppeteer, who seems to control events from the shadows. Despite his friend's warning about the unknown consequences, Alex decides to face The Puppeteer and alter history for the better, determined not to let history repeat itself. In the dimly lit library, Alex hunches over an ancient manuscript, feeling a strange sensation as he reads aloud from it, causing him to be transported to another world where the Great War had never ended. He seeks out his historian friend who reveals that the war's catastrophic outcome was due to a single pivotal decision made by their ancestors in fear and desperation. Together they discover a mysterious figure known as The Puppeteer, who seems to control events from the shadows. Despite his friend's warning about the unknown consequences, Alex decides to face The Puppeteer and alter history for the better, determined not to let history repeat itself. Alex, gripped by curiosity and a sense of duty, couldn't resist the allure of the ancient manuscript any longer. He began to read aloud from its weathered pages, feeling the air around him grow colder and darker. As he continued, a bright flash enveloped him, and he found himself standing in a world that was both eerily familiar and entirely foreign. In this new universe, the Great War had never ended. The world was torn apart by endless conflict, and the people lived in fear of a future that held no promise. Alex stumbled upon a local library, seeking refuge from the chaos outside. There, he met a historian named Eleanor who shared his passion for uncovering the truth behind the war's devastating outcome. "I believe it all hinges on a single decision," Eleanor whispered, her eyes filled with dread. "A pivotal moment in our ancestors' history when they made a choice out of fear and desperation, setting off a chain reaction that led to this never-ending war." Alex couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. He sensed a malevolent force manipulating events from the shadows, orchestrating the destruction and death. Determined to uncover the truth and prevent history from repeating itself, he and Eleanor set out on a perilous journey to confront this mysterious figure known as The Puppeteer. As they delved deeper into the heart of darkness, Alex found himself face-to-face with the enigmatic villain. The Puppeteer's voice echoed through the empty halls, taunting him. "You think you can change history? You're just a mere historian, caught in my web." With newfound courage, Alex responded, "I may be a historian, but I'm also a man of action. Together, we will find a way to break your hold over our world and change the course of history." In that moment, Alex knew that he had been given a chance to make a difference. The fate of two universes now rested on his shoulders, and he would do whatever it took to ensure that the future was no longer shrouded in darkness. As Alex continued his research, he came across a cryptic line in the ancient manuscript. "The Puppeteer's machinations are set in motion by the choices of mere mortals." He couldn't shake off the feeling that this was more than just a historical account. It was as if the text was speaking directly to him. With renewed determination, Alex approached his historian friend, Samuel, who had been studying the same manuscript for years. "Samuel, have you come across this line before?" he asked, showing the passage to his friend. Samuel's eyes widened in surprise. "Yes, I remember it vaguely. It suggests that a powerful entity known as The Puppeteer is influencing our world and others." Curiosity piqued, Alex pressed further. "But how can we prove this? And what can we do to change history's disastrous course?" Samuel hesitated before revealing the existence of a secret society, "The Guardians," who had been tracking The Puppeteer for centuries, but always one step behind. Alex knew he must find a way to catch up to The Puppeteer and stop him, no matter the cost. The stakes were too high, and history's fate hung in the balance. But first, they needed to locate the secret Guardians' base and learn more about The Puppeteer's identity and intentions. In a dimly lit room within the library's depths, Alex and Samuel pored over ancient texts, deciphering clues that might lead them closer to their elusive enemy. Little did they know, The Puppeteer was watching them from the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Alex's eyes scanned the yellowed pages, eager to uncover the secrets of the past. He could feel the weight of history bearing down upon him as he continued his search for answers. "You must understand, Alex," his friend, Thomas, said with a sense of urgency, "The Puppeteer has been manipulating events for centuries. His influence stretches across both universes, and we're running out of time to stop him." "We can't let history repeat itself," Alex replied, his voice filled with determination. "I need to find a way to confront The Puppeteer and change the course of destiny." Thomas sighed, knowing that he couldn't dissuade Alex from his mission. "Just be careful, my friend. The consequences are unclear, and we're venturing into uncharted territory." Together, they delved deeper into the mystery, piecing together clues like a puzzle. As they drew closer to unveiling The Puppeteer's true identity, Alex felt the pressure mounting. He knew that the stakes were higher than ever before. "We need to act now," he whispered to Thomas, his voice barely audible. "If we don't, countless lives will be lost in both universes." Thomas nodded, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and resolve. "Very well, let's find this elusive villain and put an end to his reign of terror." And so, they continued their quest, driven by the knowledge that time was running out and the fate of two worlds hung in the balance. In the dimly lit library, Alex ran his fingers over the dusty pages of an ancient manuscript, his eyes scanning the text for any clue as to its origin. The air was thick with anticipation and a hint of something else - perhaps magic. Suddenly, he felt a jolt of energy course through him, and the world around him shifted. Alex found himself in a world where the Great War had never ended, a nightmare landscape of perpetual conflict and despair. He quickly realized that this alternate universe was a direct result of one disastrous decision made by their ancestors in fear and desperation. It was a heavy burden to bear, knowing that his actions could potentially change the course of history. As he wandered through the devastated battlefields, he stumbled upon his historian friend Thomas, who had also been transported to this parallel universe. Together, they began to uncover the truth behind the catastrophic outcome and the mysterious figure known as "The Puppeteer." It seemed that this enigmatic villain was pulling the strings from the shadows, manipulating events across both universes to his own ends. Thomas and Alex became determined to confront The Puppeteer and alter history for the better, despite warnings of unknown consequences. "We must find him," Thomas declared passionately. "He's the key to changing this horrible outcome." "I agree," said Alex, his voice filled with determination. "But we must be careful. We don't know what else he might have in store for us." As they continued their search, they knew that the fate of both worlds hung in the balance, and the stakes had never been higher. In the dimly lit library, Alex ran his fingers over the dusty pages of an ancient manuscript that transported him to another world where the Great War had never ended. The landscape was nightmarish, a perpetual conflict and despair that stretched as far as the eye could see. He was not alone; he found a friend in Thomas, a fellow historian who had also been drawn into this alternate universe. Thomas revealed the terrible truth: the catastrophic outcome of the war was due to a single pivotal decision made by their ancestors in fear and desperation. They became determined to confront The Puppeteer, the mysterious figure who orchestrated the disasterous event, and alter history for the better. But there were warnings of unknown consequences, and they knew that changing the course of history could be a dangerous endeavor. "We must find The Puppeteer," Alex said firmly, his voice echoing through the desolate battlefield. "Agreed," Thomas replied, his eyes filled with determination. "But we must proceed with caution. We don't know what consequences our actions might have." They knew that time was of the essence, and they set out on their perilous journey to confront The Puppeteer and change the course of history. But as they delved deeper into this parallel universe, they began to realize that not everything was as it seemed. And sometimes, the most difficult decisions were those that had to be made for the greater good. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the battle-scarred landscape. Alex and Thomas knew they were running out of time. They needed to make a decision, one that would change the fate of both worlds forever. And as they prepared to face The Puppeteer, they hoped their courage would be enough to overcome the unknown consequences that lay ahead. "We have to expose them," Alex declared, his voice echoing with newfound resolve. "But we must be careful. The Puppeteer's reach is far and wide." Thomas agreed. "Let's infiltrate their network, piece by piece, until we find The Puppeteer." ``` Together, Alex and Thomas navigated a labyrinth of lies, secrets, and betrayals as they sought to unravel the conspiracy that held humanity hostage. Along the way, they encountered unexpected allies – rebels fighting against the secret societies' control. As their knowledge of the true enemy grew, so did the stakes, and the weight of their mission became almost too much to bear. But with each step forward, Alex and Thomas drew closer to confronting The Puppeteer, determined to rewrite history and give humanity a chance at peace. Alex stared at Thomas, his eyes wide with shock. "Are you saying that our ancestors' decision to enter the Great War is what caused it to never end?" he asked, his voice trembling with disbelief. Thomas nodded solemnly. "It seems so," he replied, his own gaze fixed on the ancient document in their hands. "We've found evidence that suggests our world is a parallel universe, born from a single decision. The Great War never ended, and humanity has been living in constant conflict ever since." Alex couldn't shake the feeling of dread that had settled in his chest. "Then, we have to do something about it," he declared, his voice resolute. "We need to find this Puppeteer you mentioned and put an end to their manipulation of history." Thomas smiled, a hint of excitement glimmering in his eyes. "I agree. And I know just the person who can help us. We'll need to gain her trust first, though," he added, a note of caution creeping into his tone. "She's been burned by The Puppeteer before." Alex nodded, determination burning in his eyes. "Then let's get started. We won't rest until we've exposed their conspiracy and given humanity a chance at peace." Thomas stared at the old photograph, his eyes tracing the familiar faces of his ancestors. He knew their decision in 1914 had led to the Great War dragging on for decades, a constant shadow over humanity. The weight of that responsibility bore down upon him. "Do you ever wonder if we could change it all?" Alex asked softly, looking at the photo as well. "If our ancestors had made a different choice..." Thomas sighed. "I often do. But how could we convince them to alter their path? The Puppeteer has been too clever for us so far." "Maybe we're not looking in the right place," Alex mused. "What if there are others like us, from different timelines, all working towards the same goal?" Thomas raised an eyebrow. "That sounds like a wild goose chase. But it's worth considering." Suddenly, their office door burst open, and two individuals dressed in odd clothing stepped in. One had a British accent, the other, an American. They introduced themselves as James and Sarah from an alternate timeline where the Great War ended in 1920. "We've been following your work," James said. "We know you're serious about stopping the Puppeteer. We can help." In the dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas exchanged glances, knowing their lives were on the line. "We must be cautious," Alex whispered, his voice barely audible above the distant hum of machinery. "But we don't have time for hesitation," Thomas replied, his eyes locked onto a hidden holographic map displayed on the wall. The two historians crept further into the labyrinthine network, their hearts pounding in sync with each footstep. As they navigated the seemingly endless corridors, they found themselves face-to-face with an unlikely ally: James and Sarah, representatives of a timeline where the Great War had ended by 1920. "We've been expecting you," Sarah said, her voice full of determination. "The Puppeteer must be stopped." The group shared a solemn nod before continuing their pursuit. As they ventured deeper into the heart of the enemy's territory, they discovered the true scale of the conspiracy that had kept humanity at war for generations. United by a common goal and a shared sense of urgency, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah infiltrated The Puppeteer's control room. With seconds to spare, they disabled the machinery powering the timeline-hopping network, severing the strings that controlled history itself. As the network crumbled around them, the four heroes exchanged knowing smiles. They had succeeded, and humanity now had a fighting chance at peace. In the bustling city square, the clank of horse hooves and the hum of voices filled the air as Alex and Thomas stood side by side. They had come a long way to find the mysterious Puppeteer who controlled the Great War's never-ending cycle. The men exchanged glances, both aware that the fate of millions rested on their shoulders. Suddenly, a voice called out from the crowd, "Alex! Thomas! Is it true you've come to find the Puppeteer?" The two historians turned to see James and Sarah approaching, accompanied by a small group of individuals from an alternate timeline where the war had ended in 1920. "We know who you are," said Alex, trying to hide his surprise. "But how did you find us?" "We've been following your work for years," explained Sarah with a grin. "When we heard you were coming to our timeline, we knew we had to help." Thomas nodded. "We appreciate the support, but we need to focus on our mission: finding and stopping the Puppeteer." "Don't worry," assured James. "Our combined knowledge and skills will make this task much easier. Now, let's find that elusive figure before it's too late!" Alex and Thomas stared at the flickering image of The Puppeteer on their holographic display, their hearts pounding. They knew they had only one chance to confront him before he could manipulate another timeline. "Do you think our ancestors in this timeline are aware of their decision's consequences?" Thomas asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know," Alex replied, her eyes fixated on the screen. "But we need to find out if there's any way we can change the outcome." Suddenly, the image of The Puppeteer distorted, revealing two new faces - James and Sarah. They looked just as determined as Alex and Thomas. "James and Sarah!" Alex exclaimed, recognizing them from their own timeline where the war ended in 1920. "What are you doing here?" "We're trying to do the same thing you are," James replied, his voice filled with urgency. "We need to expose this conspiracy and rewrite history." As they began discussing their plans, Sarah handed Alex a small device. "This might help us infiltrate The Puppeteer's network. It'll allow us to communicate without being traced." Together, the four of them hatched a plan to confront The Puppeteer and change history for good. They knew they had to act fast; lives depended on their success, and the weight of humanity's future rested on their shoulders. "But we have to try," Alex insisted. "We owe it to our ancestors and the generations to come. We won't let their sacrifices be in vain." The Puppeteer sighed, knowing their determination wouldn't sway him. "Very well, I suppose you must learn the hard way." In this passage, the characters Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah find themselves in a difficult situation, faced with a seemingly insurmountable enemy, The Puppeteer. They are determined to save humanity from a never-ending war but are met with resistance. Despite the odds, they remain steadfast in their mission to change history and give humanity a chance at peace. In a parallel universe, where the Great War never ended, historians Alex and Thomas stumble upon their ancestors' pivotal decision that led to this catastrophic outcome. Driven by curiosity and determination, they embark on a mission to confront The Puppeteer, the mastermind behind the war. They infiltrate the network, encountering unexpected allies, James and Sarah, who hail from an alternate timeline where the war ended in 1920. Alex and Thomas learn that their worlds are connected by a delicate thread of fate, and together with James and Sarah, they form a united front to expose the conspiracy and rewrite history. As they navigate through treacherous terrain and face high stakes, the foursome must make difficult decisions in the hopes of giving humanity a chance at peace. Despite resistance from both sides, they remain steadfast in their mission, driven by the knowledge that their actions will determine the fate of countless lives. In a world where the Great War never ended, historians Alex and Thomas from a parallel universe find themselves in a race against time. They discover that their ancestors' critical decision led to this disastrous outcome. With newfound purpose, they infiltrate a mysterious network, joining forces with unexpected allies James and Sarah from an alternate timeline where the war ended in 1920. Together, they unravel a conspiracy threatening humanity's chance at peace. ``` Alex: "Do you think we can change the course of history?" Thomas: "It's worth a try. We have to do something." James: "We must act quickly before it's too late." Sarah: "Let's not waste any more time. The fate of humanity is at stake." ``` In a small, dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas huddled together, examining ancient documents that revealed the key to ending the Great War. They were historians from a parallel universe where the war had never ceased. Their mission was to uncover the origins of this tragedy and alter history for the better. Suddenly, a voice echoed through the room, "You two should leave this place. It's not safe." James, an agent from an alternate timeline where the war had ended in 1920, had entered the network to find allies. He was joined by Sarah, a skilled hacker who shared his goal of averting a disastrous future. Together, they formed a plan. "We need to expose this conspiracy before it's too late," said Alex, determination in his voice. Thomas nodded in agreement, "Let's find the evidence and bring it to the world." As they delved deeper into the network, they faced high stakes and difficult decisions, but their resolve only grew stronger. They knew that their actions could make or break humanity's chance at peace. The clock was ticking. Alex and Thomas found themselves in an old, dusty library, the air heavy with the scent of ancient books. They knew they were close to uncovering the secret network that controlled their universe's endless war. As they quietly searched through musty tomes, they stumbled upon a hidden room filled with holographic screens projecting images from an alternate timeline. "Hey, Thomas," Alex whispered, pointing at one of the screens. "Look! It's James and Sarah, and the Great War ended in 1920!" Thomas nodded, his eyes wide with excitement. "We might be able to learn something from them. Let's listen in." The holograms showed James and Sarah discussing a meeting with key historical figures, strategizing to end the war and bring peace to their world. As Alex and Thomas observed, they noticed that some of the people in the hologram were familiar faces from their own timeline. "They must have access to information we don't," Thomas murmured. "We need to find out how they did it." Alex agreed. "Let's see if we can find more clues about this network and their plans. We might even find a way to communicate with them." As they continued their investigation, Alex and Thomas couldn't help but feel hopeful. With the right information, they just might be able to change the course of history and bring peace back to their world. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city of London. It was a night like any other, until a faint hum began to permeate the air, growing louder and more insistent with each passing moment. Alex and Thomas, historians from a parallel universe where the Great War never ended, listened intently as they stood atop Big Ben. The sound seemed familiar, but they couldn't quite place it. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, eyes wide with excitement. "I've been waiting for you," said James, his voice barely above a whisper. "I knew you'd find your way here." Thomas glanced at Alex, curiosity piqued. "Who is this?" he whispered back. "That's James," Alex replied, nodding toward the mysterious figure. "He's from another timeline, where the war ended in 1920. He said he has information about a network that could change everything." James nodded, his eyes darting between them. "I can help you expose the conspiracy threatening humanity's chance at peace. But we have to act fast - time is running out." As they stood there, a faint flicker of light caught their attention. Turning, they saw Sarah approaching, her face illuminated by the waning sunlight. She was a stranger in this timeline but had been instrumental in ending the war in hers. Her arrival only reinforced the urgency of their mission. "We must find more clues about this network," Alex whispered to Thomas, his heart pounding with anticipation. "We have to change history and restore peace." As the four of them began to discuss their next steps, they knew that the weight of humanity's future rested on their shoulders. They were determined to save mankind from an endless war, no matter the cost. And so, they set out to uncover the truth, their resolve stronger than ever. In "Parallel Decisions," historians Alex and Thomas from a parallel universe where the Great War never ended discover that their ancestors' pivotal decision led to this disastrous outcome. They infiltrate a network, encountering unexpected allies James and Sarah from an alternate timeline where the war ended in 1920. Together, they expose a conspiracy threatening humanity's chance at peace and rewrite history, facing high stakes and difficult decisions to give humanity a chance at peace. Despite resistance and challenges, the characters remain steadfast in their mission, determined to save humanity from a never-ending war. In their search for answers, Alex and Thomas discover James and Sarah discussing a meeting with key historical figures to strategize ending the Great War and bring peace to their world. They realize some of these people are familiar faces from their own timeline and resolve to find more clues about the network and its plans, hoping to change history and restore peace. "Alex, have you found anything yet?" Thomas asked, peering over his shoulder as they sifted through old documents in a dimly lit library. "Not yet," Alex replied, rubbing his temples wearily. "But I'm getting closer." The weight of their mission bore down on them, the pressure to save not just their world but countless others from the same fate. James and Sarah exchanged a knowing glance as they eavesdropped from a distance. They had been watching Alex and Thomas for days, curious about these time-travelers and their intentions. "We need to help them," Sarah whispered, concern etched on her face. "I agree," James nodded, "But we must be careful. We don't want to tip our hand to the network." They decided to approach the historians discreetly, hoping to gain their trust and learn more about their mission. As they shared information and strategies, a tentative friendship began to form between the two groups, united in their quest for peace. Alex and Thomas, standing in the dimly lit room, exchanged nervous glances as they tried to piece together the information they had gathered. They knew that each decision they made could have far-reaching consequences. "Thomas," Alex whispered, trying to keep her voice from shaking, "I think we've found the location of their next meeting." Thomas nodded, his eyes fixed on the map laid out before them. "We need to act fast, before they realize we're onto them." They quickly devised a plan and set off towards the designated meeting place, hearts pounding with anticipation and fear. As they approached the location, they heard voices in the distance. Hiding behind some bushes, they listened intently. "...and if we can convince them to sign the treaty, we'll finally put an end to this madness," a voice said confidently. Alex and Thomas exchanged looks, realizing that they had stumbled upon a pivotal moment in history. They had to act carefully to ensure their success. Suddenly, the door to the meeting room opened, revealing James and Sarah. The two teams eyed each other warily, knowing they shared a common goal but had different origins. "Who are you?" James demanded, his voice tense. "We come from another timeline," Alex replied cautiously. "Our world is still engulfed in the Great War, and we're here to end it." James and Sarah exchanged glances before nodding, understanding the gravity of their situation. They agreed to work together, knowing that they needed each other's expertise to change the course of history. And so began a delicate dance of diplomacy and deception, with both teams risking everything to give humanity a chance at peace. Alex and Thomas, intrigued by the possibility of changing history, decide to approach James and Sarah. They know that they must tread carefully in this alternate timeline, as any misstep could disrupt the delicate balance between worlds. ```markdown "We can't risk exposing ourselves yet," Alex whispers to Thomas as they approach the pair. "Let's listen and learn." James, noticing their cautious demeanor, smirks. "You're new, aren't you? Don't worry, we've all been there." He gestures towards a nearby table, where several people are engaged in hushed conversation. "Those are our key contacts. They have valuable information about the network and its plans." Sarah, overhearing their discussion, turns to face Alex and Thomas. "You must be from the other side," she says, her voice low. "We've been expecting you. It's time we all unite and put an end to this war once and for all." Alex and Thomas exchange glances, realizing that they are not alone in their quest for peace. They decide to join forces with James and Sarah and begin gathering intelligence on the network. As they delve deeper into the conspiracy, they uncover a web of deceit and corruption, which threatens to tear apart both worlds if left unchecked. Determined to save humanity's future, they work together to expose the network's dark secrets and forge alliances with influential figures from history. As they navigate this treacherous path, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah come face-to-face with difficult decisions that will shape the course of history. Will they succeed in ending the Great War and restoring peace to both worlds? Or will their efforts be in vain, leaving them forever trapped in a world at war?" ``` In a dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas huddled around a dusty old map, tracing their fingers over the carefully drawn lines that connected their world with another. They were on the precipice of a momentous discovery, one that could change the course of history forever. They had to act fast; time was running out. "Do you think we're ready?" Thomas asked, his voice barely a whisper as he glanced at Alex. Alex nodded, her eyes fixed on the map. "We need to be," she replied firmly. As they prepared to make their move, a faint crackling sound echoed through the air. The two historians exchanged a nervous glance before moving towards the source of the noise. They found James and Sarah, who were huddled around a strange device, akin to a walkie-talkie, with their heads tilted in concentration. "Hello," Alex called out cautiously, her voice barely above a whisper. "We come in peace." Thomas added, stepping forward and extending his hand. The newcomers hesitated before accepting the gesture. "We're just trying to communicate with some key historical figures from your timeline," James explained, his voice full of urgency. "We need their help to strategize ending the Great War and bring peace to our world." Alex and Thomas exchanged a knowing look. They recognized some of these faces from their own timeline, which could mean only one thing: they were all connected somehow. Determined to change history and restore peace, the four historians set out to find more clues about the network and its plans. They knew that every moment counted and that each decision they made could have far-reaching consequences. The weight of their mission pressed down on them, but they were ready to face it head-on. In the dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas huddled around an ancient computer screen, their eyes widening as they pieced together the conspiracy that had plagued both of their worlds. They knew they had to act fast, for time was running out. ``` "James," Alex began hesitantly, "We know about your meeting with those historical figures. But we need more information. What exactly did you discuss?" James looked at the two strangers with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "We talked about ways to end the Great War and bring peace to our world. It wasn't easy, but we found common ground." Sarah chimed in, "We thought about approaching key figures from history who could influence the outcome of the war. It seemed like our only chance for a peaceful future." Alex and Thomas exchanged glances, realizing they had to find these historical figures before the network did. They needed to change the course of history and give humanity a chance at peace. "We'll help you," Alex said firmly, his voice filled with determination. "Let's find those historical figures together." ``` As the sun began to rise, casting rays of light through the window, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah set out on their perilous journey. They knew they had a long road ahead of them, but they were united in their mission to change history and restore peace to both their worlds. And so, with courage in their hearts and hope in their souls, they embarked on an adventure that would forever change the course of humanity's destiny. In a world where the Great War never ended, Alex and Thomas, two historians from a parallel universe, found themselves in possession of a powerful artifact - a key that could potentially change the course of history. They knew they had to be cautious, as the slightest misstep could cause irreparable damage to their timeline. One day, while studying the key's properties, they stumbled upon a mysterious network. They realized that it was connected to another universe where the Great War ended in 1920, and people were living peacefully. This newfound information sparked hope within them. The two historians decided to infiltrate the network and uncover its secrets. In the alternate timeline, they met James and Sarah, two individuals who played a significant role in ending the war. Their encounter was filled with intrigue and excitement, as they realized that some of these people were familiar faces from their own universe. The four of them joined forces to expose a dangerous conspiracy that threatened humanity's chance at peace. As the story unfolded, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah found themselves in a race against time. They knew that if they could not stop the conspiracy in time, they would lose their opportunity to bring about peace for generations to come. With high stakes and difficult decisions at every turn, the group worked together, relying on each other's expertise and determination. In the end, they succeeded in rewriting history and giving humanity a chance at peace. But their journey was far from over. The four of them knew that the fight for peace would be an ongoing battle, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. As Alex and Thomas stood in the dimly lit library, they couldn't help but feel the weight of their discovery. The artifact in their hands was unlike anything they had ever seen before, and with it, they could change the course of history itself. They exchanged a determined glance, knowing that the stakes were higher than ever. "We have to be cautious," Alex whispered, his voice echoing through the empty halls. "This artifact is powerful, but using it carelessly could have disastrous consequences." Thomas nodded, agreement written across his face. "I know, but we don't have much time. The Great War still rages in this parallel universe, and every moment we waste brings more suffering to countless lives." Suddenly, the library doors creaked open, and James and Sarah entered, their eyes widening as they laid eyes on the artifact. They had traveled from another timeline where the war had ended in 1920, eager to lend their expertise and support. "We can help," Sarah offered, her voice steady despite the tension in the air. "Together, we can expose the dangerous conspiracy that's keeping this world at war." James added, "And once we've done that, we can work to bring peace to humanity. It won't be easy, but it's a fight worth having." The four historians stood united, their determination evident as they prepared to face the challenges ahead. They knew that the road to peace was fraught with danger, but they were ready to make the sacrifices necessary to ensure humanity's future. For in the end, it was the ongoing battle for peace that mattered most. The historians, Alex and Thomas, stared at the strange artifact in awe. It was unlike anything they had ever seen before. A line of text etched into its surface read, "The fate of humanity hangs in the balance." They knew that this was not just another historical relic; it held immense power. "What do you think it means, Thomas?" Alex asked, her eyes fixed on the artifact. "I'm not sure, but I have a feeling it's connected to the Great War," Thomas replied, his voice filled with determination. "We need to find out more about this parallel universe and how the war never ended." As they delved deeper into the mystery, Alex and Thomas crossed paths with James and Sarah, two individuals from another timeline where the war had ended in 1920. Together, they formed an unlikely alliance, sharing their knowledge and resources to understand the power of the artifact. "We need to find a way to end this war," James said, his voice filled with urgency. "The stakes are too high." "Agreed," Sarah nodded. "Let's infiltrate the network that controls this parallel universe and expose their dangerous conspiracy." Working together, the team navigated through a web of deception and intrigue, uncovering the sinister plans of those who sought to manipulate history for their own gain. As they faced high stakes decisions, they knew that their fight for peace was an ongoing battle. "We can't let them win," Alex declared, her eyes blazing with resolve. "This artifact must be used for the greater good." In the end, the historians succeeded in rewriting history and bringing peace to humanity. Standing united against future challenges, they knew that their fight for peace was far from over. But with each other's support and determination, they were ready to make sacrifices to ensure a brighter future for all. Alex and Thomas, two historians with a passion for uncovering the truth, stumbled upon an extraordinary artifact in a parallel universe. It was a world where World War I had never ended, and they found themselves in the midst of a complex web of alliances and betrayals that spanned decades. "We must find a way to bring peace to this world," Alex whispered to Thomas as they studied the ancient document in their hands. "This could change everything." Soon, they were joined by James and Sarah, two historians from another timeline where World War I had ended in 1920. Together, the group formed an unlikely alliance, determined to expose a dangerous conspiracy that threatened the very fabric of humanity's existence. "We have to be careful," Thomas cautioned. "If word gets out about our mission, we could put ourselves and countless others in danger." The team began their treacherous journey through the parallel universe, navigating the intricate maze of political intrigue that had entangled nations for centuries. As they delved deeper into the conspiracy, they encountered resistance from those who sought to protect the status quo. "We must infiltrate the network," Alex declared. "We need to find a way to expose their secrets and bring them down." Working together, the historians devised a plan to infiltrate the enemy's ranks. They knew that their fight for peace was an ongoing battle, but they were determined to make a difference. Through a series of daring actions and clever deceptions, they managed to expose the conspiracy and bring the network to its knees. As the dust settled, the historians stood united against the challenges that still lay ahead. They knew that their fight for peace was far from over, but they were ready to make sacrifices to ensure humanity's future. The world had changed forever, and they were more determined than ever to ensure that the lessons of history would never be forgotten. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting an eerie glow over the city streets as Alex and Thomas stood in front of the ancient building. Their breaths fogged the chilled air as they contemplated their next move. Thomas shook his head, "We need to find James and Sarah. They're our only hope." Alex nodded, "Agreed. Let's try the library. It's one of their favorite haunts." Upon entering the dusty old library, they found themselves in a maze of bookshelves, each filled with tomes of history and knowledge. As they searched for any sign of James or Sarah, they stumbled upon a hidden room, its walls lined with ancient scrolls. "Look!" Alex whispered, pointing to a scroll that seemed to be marked with a symbol from their world. "That's definitely their handwriting." Thomas took the scroll and unrolled it, revealing a map of the city, marked with strategic points of interest. In a hushed voice, he said, "We're getting closer." Just then, they heard footsteps echoing through the library, growing louder. Turning around, they saw James and Sarah, their faces a mix of relief and determination. "You found us," Thomas breathed, a smile of relief washing over his face. "We have to act fast. The enemy is closing in." Sarah nodded, her eyes blazing with resolve. "Let's move, we don't have much time." Alex and Thomas stood before the mysterious artifact, their hearts pounding with anticipation. They knew that the fate of humanity rested in their hands. ``` "So," James began, trying to hide his nervousness, "what exactly are we dealing with here?" Sarah asked, her eyes scanning the room for clues. "We're not sure yet," Alex replied, examining the artifact closely. "But we know it has something to do with the parallel universe where World War I never ended." Thomas nodded, his face pale but determined. "And if we don't find a way to stop this conspiracy, that war will never end in any timeline." James and Sarah exchanged glances. They knew they had to act fast, before it was too late. "Alright," James said, taking a deep breath, "let's get to work." As the group began their search for answers, they found themselves navigating a web of political intrigue and dangerous secrets. They infiltrated networks, decoded messages, and pieced together the puzzle of the conspiracy that threatened all of humanity. Their efforts were met with resistance, but they pressed on, driven by their desire to secure peace for future generations. In the end, it wasn't easy, and sacrifices had to be made. But through teamwork and determination, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah brought the truth to light. And though the fight for peace was far from over, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. After all, their job depended on it. ``` In the dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas huddled together, examining the mysterious artifact they had discovered. It was unlike anything either of them had ever seen before, and they could feel the power emanating from it. "This is extraordinary," whispered Alex, his voice barely audible above the quiet hum of the device. "We need to figure out how it works." Thomas nodded in agreement, his eyes widening with curiosity. "I've never seen anything like this. It could change everything we know about history." As they continued to study the artifact, a faint whisper echoed through the room. They both turned, startled, to find James and Sarah standing in the shadows. "We heard about your discovery," said Sarah cautiously. "And we think we might be able to help." Alex and Thomas exchanged glances, unsure if they could trust these strangers from another timeline. "We need to make sure this artifact doesn't fall into the wrong hands," warned Alex, his voice firm. "We understand the risks," replied James, stepping forward. "We're all in this together, and we can't let this powerful weapon be used against humanity." With newfound determination, the four historians resolved to work together, despite their differences in origin and experience. They knew that the fate of countless lives depended on their ability to uncover the truth behind this enigmatic artifact and thwart any sinister intentions. As they embarked on their perilous journey, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah would face political intrigue, dangerous conspiracies, and deadly secrets. But through it all, their shared commitment to peace and justice would drive them forward, no matter the cost. Alex and Thomas, both historians, stood in awe as they examined the powerful artifact they had discovered in a parallel universe where World War I never ended. It was a mysterious device that seemed to hold the key to unraveling the history of this alternate reality. They knew they had stumbled upon something truly extraordinary, and it wasn't long before they decided to team up with James and Sarah, two brave individuals from another timeline where the war had ended in 1920. ``` "It seems like we're not alone in this fight for peace," Alex said, as he looked at the artifact in his hand. "We need all the help we can get." "Agreed," Thomas nodded. "Our friends from the 1920s timeline have valuable knowledge and experience that could be crucial in our mission to expose this dangerous conspiracy." The group began working together, navigating through a labyrinth of political intrigue and secret networks. They knew they had to act fast if they wanted to bring an end to the seemingly endless war. "We need to find out who's behind all of this," James said, his eyes filled with determination. "This conspiracy is tearing humanity apart." "We can't let that happen," Sarah added, her voice firm and resolute. "We have a responsibility to protect the innocent lives caught in the crossfire." ``` As they delved deeper into their investigation, Alex, Thomas, James, and Sarah realized just how far-reaching the consequences of their actions would be. They were prepared to make sacrifices for the greater good, willing to fight against all odds in pursuit of a brighter future for all of humanity. In the dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas exchanged nervous glances as they held the powerful artifact in their hands. "We have to be careful with this," whispered Alex, his voice barely audible above the faint hum of the device. "I know," replied Thomas, his eyes darting between the artifact and the door. They couldn't afford any mistakes; one wrong move could change history itself. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. Their hearts raced as they quickly hid the artifact under a pile of old books. "Come in," called Thomas, trying to sound casual. The door creaked open and James entered the room, followed by Sarah. "We have information from our timeline that could help us," Sarah said urgently, her eyes scanning the room for any signs of the artifact. Alex and Thomas exchanged relieved glances. "Tell us everything," urged Alex, eager to learn more about their potential allies. James began recounting the story of his timeline, where World War I had ended in 1920 due to a series of diplomatic breakthroughs. "But we still faced political turmoil and conflict, and that's when we discovered this artifact," he continued, gesturing towards an identical object hidden under the same pile of books. "We knew it had to be handled with care," added Sarah, her voice low. "Together, our teams have been unraveling a dangerous conspiracy that threatens humanity." As they listened, Alex and Thomas felt a renewed sense of purpose. They were in good company, and together, they would navigate the political intrigue and infiltrate networks to expose these secrets. "We need a plan," said Thomas, his voice firm. "Let's get started," agreed Alex, determined to make sacrifices if necessary for the greater good. The battle for peace was far from over, but they were ready to fight. As Alex and Thomas gazed at the mysterious artifact, they couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility. "We have to find James and Sarah," Alex declared, his voice filled with determination. "Agree," Thomas nodded in agreement. "Let's reach out to them through our communication device." In another timeline, James and Sarah stared at the historical documents they'd found. "This is huge," Sarah exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "But we need help. We should contact Alex and Thomas." As their conversation continued, the two pairs of historians connected through the communication device. "We have to work together to expose this conspiracy," Alex stated firmly. "Absolutely," agreed James. "Let's start by analyzing these documents." The four historians huddled around the artifact and documents, their minds racing with possibilities. "What if we shared our findings with the world?" Thomas suggested, his voice filled with hope. "That could be the key to ending this dangerous conspiracy," Alex added. In that moment, they made a pact. "We'll do whatever it takes to ensure peace for humanity," Sarah vowed passionately. James nodded in agreement. "This is a fight worth fighting." And so, with newfound determination, the historians embarked on their mission, ready to make any sacrifices necessary for the sake of humanity. They knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but they were prepared to face them head-on in their quest for a brighter future. This is the summary of your work so far: In "Parallel Decisions", historians Alex and Thomas discover a powerful artifact in a parallel universe where World War I never ended. They team up with James and Sarah from another timeline where the war ended in 1920 to expose a dangerous conspiracy that threatens humanity. Despite high stakes and difficult decisions, their fight for peace is an ongoing battle, and they are ready to make sacrifices to secure a brighter future for all. In the dimly lit room, Alex and Thomas stood side by side, gazing at the mysterious artifact that had led them here. "I still can't believe we found this in another universe," whispered Thomas, his eyes wide with wonder. Alex nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's unbelievable, but we have to focus on our mission. We need to expose the conspiracy and end the war." The communication device buzzed, signaling an incoming message from James and Sarah. As the hologram of their faces appeared before them, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with her newfound allies. "James here," said James, his voice filled with determination. "We've been doing some digging in our timeline, and we think we've found the source of the conspiracy." "Tell us everything," urged Alex, her heart racing at the prospect of uncovering the truth. Sarah chimed in, "It's a secret society called 'The Iron Fist.' They're manipulating both governments to keep the war going." Alex turned to Thomas and whispered, "We need to find a way to bring this information to light. The world can't afford another century of war." As they stood there, united in their quest for peace, Alex knew that they would face countless challenges and difficult decisions along the way. But together, they were prepared to fight for a better future, no matter the cost. In their first meeting, Alex and Thomas activated the communication device and were instantly connected with James and Sarah from another timeline. "Greetings," said Alex, his voice echoing through the device. "We've been searching for someone like you, people who can help us expose this dangerous conspiracy." James looked at Sarah, his eyes wide with disbelief. "You mean... we're not alone?" He asked. "No," Thomas replied, his voice filled with urgency. "There are others out there, but they need our help. We must work together to ensure peace for all." Sarah nodded in agreement. "We understand the stakes, and we're prepared to make sacrifices if necessary." The four historians exchanged ideas on how to best expose the conspiracy. Alex suggested, "We should start by gathering evidence. We have access to countless historical documents, both in our timelines and across parallel universes. If we can find any connections between them, we'll be one step closer to exposing the truth." Thomas agreed. "And we need to be cautious. The people behind this conspiracy are powerful, and they'll do anything to stop us. We must work secretly, keeping our communication hidden at all times." With determination in their eyes, the historians vowed to fight for peace, no matter the cost. Together, they embarked on a mission that would change the course of history, and possibly save humanity from an eternal war. In their quest for unraveling the truth, Alex and Thomas found themselves in a dilemma. They had discovered an encrypted message that could lead them to the heart of the conspiracy. But deciphering it required the combined expertise of James and Sarah. The four historians huddled together, exchanging ideas and theories as they tried to piece together the puzzle. "We need to find a way to break this code," Alex said urgently, her eyes scanning the encrypted message. "Otherwise, we're running out of time." Thomas nodded in agreement. "We can try using our knowledge of history to find patterns in the language," he suggested. "It might give us a clue about how the message was encoded." James and Sarah began working on the code, their minds racing with possibilities. "I think we're on the right track," James whispered, a look of determination in his eyes. "We just need to find the key that unlocks this message." As the hours ticked by, tensions rose, but the historians refused to give up. Finally, in a moment of clarity, Sarah cracked the code. Her eyes widened with astonishment as she revealed the decoded message: "Project Genesis – 3 days until activation." The revelation sent a chill down their spines. They had discovered the name of the dangerous conspiracy they were up against. With newfound urgency, they set out to expose Project Genesis and secure peace for all.

[spockvarietyhour]

First Officer Genesis Device

[dqlutqmmobdoi]

4 5 1 7 8 9 2 6 3 0

[rottenpumpkin13]

Highlights From the SOLDIER Group Chat

All SOLDIER operatives are required to be apart of the official group chat, a space where they can comfortably communicate and relay messages en mass.

• Genesis sending PDFs of the Communist Manifesto at random.

• Director Lizard™ memes every Wednesday provided by Zack.

• Sephiroth using "DTF" to indicate that he's free to spar. Genesis had told him it means "Down To Fight."

• Zack sending a picture to the group chat holding the severed head of the president ShinRa statue, along with the caption "I fucked up."

• Someone changing the group chat name to DilfGeal™ and friends.

• Genesis sending "Sephiroth you forgot your briefs at my apartment" and turning his phone off.

• Zack and Kunsel's rap battle through voice notes.

• Sephiroth using "IWTFY" to indicate that he's free to spar. Genesis told him it means "I Want To Fight You."

• Roche changing the group chat name to Sephiroth's wig.

• The mystery penis™ — someone accidentally sent a nude to the group chat at 3 AM and quickly deleted it, but the picture automatically saved to everyone's device and it incited a month long discourse and speculation about the mystery penis. No, it wasn't Genesis.

• The day they discovered there was a turk informant lurking in the group chat (it was Reno) after said lurker insulted Zack, it escalated and Angeal went out looking for Reno to "chat."

• Genesis sending "THE 👁️ GODDESS 👁️ IS 👁️ WATCHING 👁️" after every misdeed.

• The day professor Hojo joined the chat so everyone changed their name and profile pictures to Sephiroth.

• Lazard: screen name "Milf-Muncher-5000" kindly revert to your government name and profile picture. I know this is you, Commander Rhapsodos.

• Sephiroth once misspelled the word "laughed" as "laft" and now instead of "lol" or "lmao" everyone just "LAF"

• Everyone spamming the hashtag #GetHewley'd after someone is scolded by Angeal.

• Kunsel posting a list of estimated hex codes and measurements of everyone's junk and chaos ensuing right afterwards. Genesis in particular is outraged at why his is so underestimated. He proceeds to send everyone his correct measurements.

• Zack using too many emojis, oftentimes only using emojis.

• If you swear, Angeal kicks you out, so everyone starts using Zack's name as a substitute for for curse words. "ZACK YOU!" is a particularly popular one.

• Sephiroth randomly sending unflattering pictures of Genesis. Then he sends a voice note of his office door being beaten down by Genesis.

• Sending random pictures and depictions of lizards and captioning them "FOUND THE DIRECTOR"

[star-trek-fandom-confessions]

#258

"I wish Carol Marcus got more appreciation on Star Trek subreddits because the only thing close to that is people drooling over her underwear scene in Into Darkness. Otherwise, she's treated like an evil, manipulative baby mama or dumb blonde idiot in the way of a certain m/f pairing in the SNW subset of the Trek fandom. The thing is, I was indifferent to her character before, but all that character-bashing and shippers' envy directed towards her has made me her stan."

[esamastation]

Shizuroth, part fifteen

Previous parts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen

-

Angeal has never been quite as aware of the exact dimensions of the Buster Sword as he is now, heading up to Lazard's office. Though the weight has become almost a part of him, a comforting presence on his back, it feels like… more.

He'd not quite resigned himself to possessing and carrying a sword he couldn't really use - it was just something that… was. It was a legacy of sorts, and there was nothing all that burdensome about it. But it still was a fact - the Buster Sword was one of a kind, and even studying the records of Sephiroth's masterful swordplay would never help him manage it. There was no one and nothing that could teach him how to use something that was, most likely, designed to be nigh unusable.

But apparently Sephiroth himself could.

"No," the man had said after half an hour of doing things with the sword Angeal never could've figured out on his own. "You can't fight with it like with a more reasonably-sized sword. But you can fight with it. Question is… do you want to?"

Does he want to, huh.

"Come in" Lazard calls at his knock, and Angeal steps into the man's office. "Angeal, good. Want to explain the rumours of Genesis' chasing Seconds out of floor 49?"

Angeal clears his throat, smiling a little. "Well. We didn't wreck the training room this time?" he offers, taking the chair in front of Lazard's desk and flipping it backward.

"You three were banned from using it for a reason," Lazard points out flatly.

"And yet we were asked to assess Sephiroth's capabilities. Hard thing to do, without fighting him," Angeal says and sits down, straddling the backrest between his knees and sighing. "Not that there was much of a fight."

Lazard's expression darkens. "So his abilities took a hit."

"Worse," Angeal admits. "He stopped holding back. At all."

"... He'd been holding back?"

"All his life, I expect," Angeal admits. "For… understandable reasons, considering his upbringing. Whatever personal reasons Sephiroth had to hide the full extent of his abilities, he's forgotten them."

"Hmm," Lazard hums, watching him closely. "And yet he didn't trash the training room, again?"

"No, just our confidence," Angeal laughs ruefully and shakes his head. "Sephiroth just spent two hours schooling us in the basics of swordsmanship. Literally - he gave us a tutoring session."

Lazard blinks and then leans back. "Well," he says, sounding surprised. "That's certainly…"

"Out of character?" Angeal asks with an arched brow. "You have no idea. When Genesis told me his memory had taken a hit, I was expecting him to show the usual signs. Confusion, reticiece, defensiveness, antisociality… and he did, to some extent. But nothing like I was expecting - and then we got to the training room, and it was like a switch was flicked."

"Memory recalled?" Lazard muses.

"Maybe. Mostly I think it was just that he found something he knew, really knew, in his bones," Angeal says. "He might've forgotten who knows how much about his life - but not how to fight. And since he's lost whatever motivation he had for holding back… it looks a lot like he just got a lot better."

Lazard hums. "And that might be a problem," he concluded darkly. "Should people take the wrong idea from it."

"Oh yeah," Angeal agrees.

"Where is Sephiroth now?"

"Genesis took him out of the building - they're going clothes shopping."

"... Genesis and Sephiroth?"

Angeal grins. "Sephiroth has become aware that his coat doesn't fit comfortably," he explains. "And Genesis knows the best tailor in the city, apparently."

"If it's the same one I use, he does," Lazard says, fiddling with his cuff and then leaning back. "Alright, so we don't have to worry about Sephiroth not being fit to fight. Just the… implications and rumours of his current status. Maybe a solo mission to get him started…"

Angeal grimaces. "I don't know if leaving him to his own devices is the right call here," he says.

"He's always been a solo fighter," Lazard comments.

"To no one's benefit. And he's lost a lot of memories."

Lazard concedes the point there with a sigh. "Well, you and Genesis have known him longer than I. I bow to your superior insight. How do you suggest we proceed?"

"A joint mission, something simple, monster extermination in the slums, maybe. There's never a shortage of that," Angeal says. "Sephiroth with Genesis or myself. Depending on how that goes… well, Genesis suggested throwing a bunch of Seconds at Sephiroth."

The director looks up. "... How do you mean?"

"Students, cadets, a squad. Whatever," Angeal explains, folding his arms. "Someone to teach. And I have to say I agree. Sephiroth seemed to really enjoy schooling us, and he seemed the most like himself when he was doing it."

Plus, Angeal knows from experience that teaching is the best way to learn, really. That's how he'd risen in ranks just ahead of Genesis - because the Thirds and the other Seconds kept asking him for pointers. Nothing quite like having someone relying on you to make you rise to the occasion, is there?

"He's never offered to lead a squad," Lazard points out.

"And there were probably reasons for that," Angeal agrees. "Whether he remembers those reasons anymore is a different question. It's worth consideration."

"But don't you think that will just make the rumours worse?" Lazard asks, leaning forward again and steepling his hands. "Making him interact with other members of SOLDIER?"

Angeal shrugs. "Sephiroth's different now," he says. "And with all due respect, I don't think that's something we can hide long term. Thankfully, not a lot of people know him that well," he mutters and then adds, "It would be a great thing for the SOLDIER program, if Sephiroth taught even one personal student. He is, after all, the best of us."

He's not quite as bitter about it as Genesis, but… seeing Sephiroth use the Buster Sword like he'd been doing it for years almost made him cry. So there's that.

Lazard draws a slow breath and then exhales. "I'll get you your monster extermination in the slums, after Sephiroth's leave ends," he says and turns to his computer. "We'll discuss the rest after."

"That works. Thank you, director," Angeal says and stands up.

Lazard nods and then asks, "How is he? What's your honest opinion?"

It's a little too soon to say, but there's only one answer, really. "He'll be fine," Angeal promises and turns to leave.

Sephiroth would be fine. They'd make sure of it.

[comradekatara]

sometimes i feel like the teen in charge of saving the world trope is too overused but i feel like it works so perfectly in atla. the way they utilize it for character/story purposes as well as to teach lessons to their young viewers is so great

yeah like it’s obviously a pretty necessary convention of the genre, that a children’s fantasy adventure narrative requires child protagonists that the primary audience can relate to and identity with. and usually they’re orphans and ontologically special in some way, so as to justify their role in these magical shenanigans, since it’s fundamentally unrealistic for a bunch of tweens to be saving the world. and there’s pretty much always an in-universe explanation as to why it has to be children specifically for all of these various works, either because children stumbled upon a magical teleportation device by chance and now they are tasked to complete The Prophecy (eg, narnia, amphibia, etc), or because they are in some way The Chosen One (eg, harry potter, atla), or because the stakes are so high that they need to risk their safety to go on this quest (eg, a wrinkle in time, also atla).

i think revolutionary girl utena and neon genesis evangelion both do an excellent job of deconstructing this trope from within their respective genres (the works themselves functioning as deconstructions of their assumed narrative functions). like, the reason these kids are the ones tasked with shouldering these unique burdens is actually because they are being exploited by the adults in power. the fact that they are orphans (especially in the case of the eva pilots, but also in utena’s case) makes them especially viable to these modes of exploitation (spoilers: they need to have a dead mom so that they can be piloted, utena needs to be an orphan so that she can idealize the illusory promise of family and something eternal).

so in the case of atla, it’s not as overtly deconstructing these tropes, but the stakes do feel sufficiently heavy and tragic (if you choose to read into the underlying implications). aang should be an old man, if not dead by now, but due to his temporal displacement, he is now forced to carry a weight that is unfathomable to anyone, let alone a child. as he says, “i’m just one kid.” katara is similarly forced to carry a burden due to being the sole remnant of the systematic extermination of her people. sokka, like aang and katara, is also alone in his own way, and must grow up too fast to compensate for the devastation his people have suffered. zuko was disfigured and banished by his abusive father at the age of 13 specifically to emphasize the extent and depth of his cruelty. azula was raised as a weapon by the same man, and her friends taught themselves to be weapons from a young age for similar reasons. suki is a kid who sees other kids her age travel the world and attempt to save it, and is inspired by their courage to leave home and help out in any way she can, only to end up in a maximum security prison. toph isn’t directly affected by the war, but she nonetheless chooses to join the avatar because of her status as a child being denied autonomy by her family. yue is barely sixteen, and thus deemed old enough to marry, and is essentially sold off against her will. jet and his freedom fighters are so young, and yet have no choice but to fight because their families and homes have been destroyed.

the point atla is making is that in war, children are forced to grow up too quickly and become the kinds of people who must make ruthless, impossible decisions. we see katara and toph fight like sisters over meaningless, trivial bullshit, and then episodes later risk their lives to fight the fire nation. we see sokka awkwardly try to woo the girls he has crushes on, only for him to lose them in horrific ways. aang and sokka fight over whether killing is necessarily wrong, sokka already too jaded to understand aang’s point of view. killing is second nature to him by now. he’s barely sixteen. aang is twelve. as a kid, seeing kids your age or older fight evil is awesome. as an adult, seeing children forced to sacrifice everything to resist against the imperialist forces that have destroyed their lives is devastating.