Still Now Here Option’s to Downloading or watching Spinning Gold streaming the full movie online for free. Do you like movies? If so, then you’ll love New Movie: Spinning Gold. This movie is one of the best in its genre. #Spinning Gold will be available to watch online on Netflix's very soon!
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Now Is Spinning Gold available to stream? Is watching Spinning Gold on Disney Plus, HBO Max, Netflix, or Amazon Prime? Yes, we have found an authentic streaming option/service. A 1950s housewife living with her husband in a utopian experimental community begins to worry that his glamorous company could be hiding disturbing secrets.
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Showcase Cinema Warwick you'll want to make sure you're one of the first people to see it! So mark your calendars and get ready for a Spinning Gold movie experience like never before. of our other Marvel movies available to watch online. We're sure you'll find something to your liking. Thanks for reading, and we'll see you soon! Spinning Gold is available on our website for free streaming. Details on how you can watch Spinning Gold for free throughout the year are described
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If you're a fan of the comics, you won't want to miss this one! The storyline follows Spinning Gold as he tries to find his way home after being stranded on an alien Spinning Goldt. Spinning Gold is definitely a Spinning Gold movie you don't want to miss with stunning visuals and an action-packed plot! Plus, Spinning Gold online streaming is available on our website. Spinning Gold online is free, which includes streaming options such as 123movies, Reddit, or TV shows from HBO Max or Netflix!
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Spinning Gold Release in the US
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Spinning Gold hits theaters on January 14, 2022. Tickets to see the film at your local movie theater are available online here. The film is being released in a wide release so you can watch it in person.
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How to Watch Spinning Gold for Free?release on a platform that offers a free trial. Our readers to always pay for the content they wish to consume online and refrain from using illegal means.
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Where to Watch Spinning Gold?
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There are currently no platforms that have the rights to Watch Spinning Gold Movie Online.MAPPA has decided to air the movie only in theaters because it has been a huge success.The studio , on the other hand, does not wish to divert revenue Streaming the movie would only slash the profits, not increase them.
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As a result, no streaming services are authorized to offer Spinning Gold Movie for free. The film would, however, very definitely be acquired by services like Funimation , Netflix, and Crunchyroll. As a last consideration, which of these outlets will likely distribute the film worldwide?
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Is Spinning Gold on Netflix?
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The streaming giant has a massive catalog of television shows and movies, but it does not include 'Spinning Gold.' We recommend our readers watch other dark fantasy films like 'The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf.'
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Is Spinning Gold on Crunchyroll?
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Crunchyroll, along with Funimation, has acquired the rights to the film and will be responsible for its distribution in North America.Therefore, we recommend our readers to look for the movie on the streamer in the coming months. subscribers can also watch dark fantasy shows like 'Jujutsu Kaisen.'
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Is Spinning Gold on Hulu?
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No, 'Spinning Gold' is unavailable on Hulu. People who have a subscription to the platform can enjoy 'Afro Samurai Resurrection' or 'Ninja Scroll.'
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Is Spinning Gold on Amazon Prime?
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Amazon Prime's current catalog does not include 'Spinning Gold.' However, the film may eventually release on the platform as video-on-demand in the coming months.fantasy movies on Amazon Prime's official website. Viewers who are looking for something similar can watch the original show 'Dororo.'
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When Will Spinning Gold Be on Disney+?
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Spinning Gold, the latest installment in the Spinning Gold franchise, is coming to Disney+ on July 8th! This new movie promises to be just as exciting as the previous ones, with plenty of action and adventure to keep viewers entertained. you're looking forward to watching it, you may be wondering when it will be available for your Disney+ subscription. Here's an answer to that question!
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Is Spinning Gold on Funimation?
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Crunchyroll, its official website may include the movie in its catalog in the near future. Meanwhile, people who wish to watch something similar can stream 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train.'
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Spinning Gold Online In The US?
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Most Viewed, Most Favorite, Top Rating, Top IMDb movies online. Here we can download and watch 123movies movies offline. 123Movies website is the best alternative to Spinning Gold's (2021) free online. We will recommend 123Movies as the best Solarmovie alternative There are a
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few ways to watch Spinning Gold online in the US You can use a streaming service such as Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video. You can also rent or buy the movie on iTunes or Google Play. watch it on-demand or on a streaming app available on your TV or streaming device if you have cable.
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What is Spinning Gold About?
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It features an ensemble cast that includes Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Wilde, Gemma Chan, KiKi Layne, Nick Kroll, and Chris Pine. In the film, a young wife living in a 2250s company town begins to believe there is a sinister secret being kept from her by the man who runs it.
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What is the story of Spinning Gold?
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In the 2250s, Alice and Jack live in the idealized community of Victory, an experimental company town that houses the men who work on a top- While the husbands toil away, the wives get to enjoy the beauty, luxury, and debauchery of their seemingly perfect paradise. However, when cracks in her idyllic life begin to appear, exposing flashes of something sinister lurking below the surface, Alice can't help but question exactly what she's doing in Victory.
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In ancient Kahndaq, Teth Adam bestowed the almighty powers of the gods. After using these powers for vengeance, he was imprisoned, becoming Spinning Gold. Nearly 5,000 years have passed, and Spinning Gold has gone from man to myth to legend. Now free, his unique form of justice, born out of rage, is challenged by modern-day heroes who form the Justice Society: Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone.
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Production companies : Warner Bros. Pictures.
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At San Diego Comic-Con in July, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson had other people raising eyebrows when he said that his long-awaited superhero debut in Spinning Gold would be the beginning of “a new era” for the DC Extended Universe naturally followed: What did he mean? And what would that kind of reset mean for the remainder of DCEU's roster, including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, the rest of the Justice League, Suicide Squad, Shazam and so on.As
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Spinning Gold neared theaters, though, Johnson clarified that statement in a recent sit-down with Yahoo Entertainment (watch above).
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“I feel like this is our opportunity now to expand the DC Universe and what we have in Spinning Gold, which I think is really cool just as a fan, is we introduce five new superheroes to the world,” Johnson tells us. Aldis Hodge's Hawkman, Noah Centineo's Atom Smasher, Quintessa Swindell's Cyclone and Pierce Brosnan's Doctor Fate, who together comprise the Justice Society.) “One anti-hero.” (That would be DJ's Spinning Gold.)
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“And what an opportunity. The Justice Society pre-dated the Justice League. So opportunity, expand out the universe, in my mind… all these characters interact. That's why you see in Spinning Gold, we acknowledge everyone: Batman , Superman , Wonder Woman, Flash, we acknowledge everybody.There's also some Easter eggs in there, too.So that's what I meant by the resetting. Maybe resetting' wasn't a good term.only
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In addition to being Johnson's DC Universe debut, “Spinning Gold” is also notable for marking the return of Henry Cavill's Superman. The cameo is likely to set up future showdowns between the two characters, but Hodge was completely unaware of it until he saw the film.
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“They kept that all the way under wraps, and I didn't know until maybe a day or two before the premiere,” he recently said Spinning Gold (2022) FULLMOVIE ONLINE
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Is Spinning Gold Available On Hulu?Viewers are saying that they want to view the new TV show Spinning Gold on Hulu. Unfortunately, this is not possible since Hulu currently does not offer any of the free episodes of this series streaming at this time. the MTV channel, which you get by subscribing to cable or satellite TV services. You will not be able to watch it on Hulu or any other free streaming service.
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Is Spinning Gold Streaming on Disney Plus?
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Unfortunately, Spinning Gold is not currently available to stream on Disney Plus and it's not expected that the film will release on Disney Plus until late December at the absolute earliest.
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While Disney eventually releases its various studios' films on Disney Plus for subscribers to watch via its streaming platform, most major releases don't arrive on Disney Plus until at least 45-60 days after the film's theatrical release.
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The sequel opened to $150 million internationally, which Disney reports is 4% ahead of the first film when comparing like for likes at current exchange rates. Overall, the global cume comes to $330 million. Can it become the year's third film to make it past $1 billion worldwide despite China and Russia, which made up around $124 million of the first film's $682 million international box office, being out of play? It may be tough, but it's not impossible. Legging out past $500 million is plausible on the domestic front (that would be a multiplier of at least 2.7), and another $500 million abroad would be a drop of around $58 million from the original after excluding the two MIA markets. It'd be another story if audiences didn't love the film,but the positive reception suggests that Wakanda Forever will outperform the legs on this year's earlier MCU titles (Multiverse of Madness and Love and Thunder had multipliers of 2.2 and 2.3 respectively).
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As for the rest of the box office, there's little to get excited about, with nothing else grossing above $10 million as Hollywood shied away from releasing anything significant not just this weekend but also over the previous two weekends. When Black Panther opened in 2018, there was no counterprogramming that opened the same weekend, but Peter Rabbit and Fifty Shades Freed were in their second weekends and took second and third with $17.5 million and $17.3 million respectively. That weekend had an overall cume of $287 million compared to $208 million this weekend Take away the $22 million gap between the two Black Panther films and there's still a $57 million gap between the two weekends. The difference may not feel that large when a mega blockbuster is propping up the grosses,but the contrast is harsher when the mid-level films are the entire box office as we saw in recent months.
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Spinning Gold, which is the biggest grosser of the rough post-summer, pre-Wakanda Forever season, came in second with just $8.6 million. Despite the blockbuster competition that arrived in its fourth weekend, the numbers didn't totally collapse, dropping 53 % for a cume of $151 million. Worldwide it is at $352 million, which isn't a great cume as the grosses start to wind down considering its $200 million budget. Still, it's the biggest of any film since Spinning Gold, though Wakanda Forever will overtake it any day now.
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Spinning Gold came in third place in its fourth weekend, down 29% with $6.1 million, emerging as one of the season's most durable grossers and one of the year's few bright spots when it comes to films for adults. The domestic cume is $56.5 million Fourth place went to Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, which had a negligible drop of 5% for a $3.2 million sixth weekend and $40.8 million cume., in fact

Battle report: R-02
Time: One day after the Galdush battle, day 21 since REC forces crossed to the other side
Report carried out by: Brigadier General Oscar Wayne
Report states: At noon of the 21st day the remains of the enemy seventh army engaged base Galdush. The attack was carried out by air forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh wyvern corp, and ground forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh siege legion. The wyverns came within roughly three miles from the base before the majority was taken out of the sky by AN/TWQ-2 missile systems, the rest either fled or stayed and were taken out via heavy machine gun fire. The siege legion was destroyed sooner by M155A2 self-propelled howitzers. The majority was eliminated, and remnants fled.
Outcome: Victory
REC casualties: None
Enemy casualties: Estimated 4.000 (Not including wyverns and hardware)
Identification sources: Captured general of the seventh army, Drannor Crax; Captured dwarven commander Dunan Oremelt.
(Twenty days after the Galdush battle)
Imperial palace, Elyana
"What is the meaning of this!?", Canus yelled in furious anger as he stood up from his throne.
"Your Majesty, I can explain.", Laeroth said standing in the center of the Grand chamber, surrounded by senators and the Chosen legions, "I was planning on informing you-"
"Inform me of what!? That the invasion force led by general Ylindar was destroyed in less than a day!? That the troops you sent to Galdush to stop the humans were also crushed!? That we lost nearly two hundred thousand forces, including two of our armies and generals, in less than one fucking moon cycle!?".
This was the first time anyone has seen Canus rage out like this. His whole life he was calm and collected, never raising his voice at anyone. Even if he did have an outburst, its magnitude was nowhere near the level of what the Grand chamber's attendants were experiencing at this moment. Laeroth had no words with which to defend himself and lying was beneath. He underestimated the enemy's capabilities. If they could do this, then he shuddered to imagine what they would do if they were given even more time. All he knew for sure was that a direct approach will undoubtedly lead to failure.
"Your Majesty.", Laeroth spoke, "I meant no disrespect. I only assumed that-"
"You assumed!? You do not assume, Laeroth. You determine! You bring solutions and results. In over three hundred cycles you never once assumed anything. What has changed? Are you losing your edge?"
"Your Majes-"
"Perhaps I should put someone else in charge.". These words shook Laeroth to the core. "Someone more youthful. Someone I can fully trust. Someone capable of cleaning this mess. Perhaps Athtar, maybe Reebus or Syndra. Or... maybe that fellow Alpharan."
"No!", Laeroth shouted, his voice booming over the halls, making everyone present twitch. He drew his sword and knelt, "I shall resolve this. I shall not fail you, Your Majesty.". He brought the edge of his sword to his left hand and without hesitation sliced off his smallest finger. Then he placed his sword on the floor and offered Canus his finger. Canus slowly walked over to him and took it.
After observing the finger for several moments, Canus spoke, "Rise.", and so Laeroth did, "This is your final chance. Should you fail me, you will lose more than this finger.". With a bow and a salute, Laeroth exited the chamber. "This meeting is over! Return to your duties!"
With that, the chamber was emptied and only Canus remained with his guard. Sitting on his throne, Canus observed Laeroth's finger. All he could do was hope and pray that Laeroth's determination would prevail.
As Laeroth walked down the halls he patched up his hand with cloth. His first captain walked beside him, "Sir! You must slow down."
"I cannot Helion!", Laeroth shouted, "Every minute we spend bickering is a minute we give to the enemy. Their power, their speed, it is like nothing we faced before."
"Well... What do we do? What can we do?"
"First we need to fortify the North Alston river. Send word to general Lyklor Balphine of the XI and general Reebus Octo of the XII. Tell them to hold the bridges and not let the enemy pass. Since they have powerful cannons, they need to spread their forces out and use long-range catapults. Second, send word to the Meilume nobility and tell them to leave the region. Third, bring me the captive humans as soon as possible. Where are they?"
"About a dozen have been scattered at the Meilume and Kuruk capitals. The rest are on their way to the other cities between Kuruk and Elyana and many will be sent to the mines of the Tubal mountains."
"I want eight captives here as soon as possible."
"Understood sir.". The captain saluted and rushed to his duties, leaving Laeroth who entered his personal chamber and grabbed his flask. After he emptied it he threw it to the corner of the room. Sitting down on his bed he caught his breath and stared at the spirit statues on his shelf and prayed, "Morto, I beg of you. Bring death upon these cursed enemies."
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(Around the same time)
South village, Yellow forest county, Meilume
Nym will never forget what happened that day. His little crew swore that they would never tell anyone about it. That... man, if it can be called a man, terrified them. When they returned to their parents they lied about how they were running from ferals they saw in the forest while playing. This put the whole village on alert. Of course, it would, a danger of ferals attacking was normal. The whole forest had dens of feral welfen and leanoids, but the county didn't have the means with which to deal with the problem and the empire doesn't see them as a threat overall, so the counties were on their own.
The Yellow forest county had roughly eight thousand people living in it with roughly six hundred militia. It was small compared to some other counties but it held on all things considered. Some people wanted to leave the country as they feared it was becoming too dangerous due to feral activity, but recent events made them choose otherwise. Two massive armies marched near their forest and looking down from the hill the people could see them. The first one marched to the rift to get to the other side and the other after them to assist them. But they were all defeated. This frightened the people of Yellow forest, but they chose to stay, thinking that maybe the enemy won't enter their forest because of the ferals. A long shot, but one they chose to take.
Nym was outside with his friends. The sun was starting to set and they had to return home from mushroom picking. "We never should have gone there.", said Cohnal.
"Stop talking about it.", Nym said, "It's done, stop."
"He has a point, Nym.", Elsha said, "I don't know why that man let us go but... I don't ever want to see him again."
"Same here.", said Meara.
"And we won't have to.", Nym said, "As long as we don't tell anyone anything and we never go to Galdush, we will be fine."
The four of them nodded to that. What happened on that day scared them to the core. But it made them confused more than anything else. The passing imperial soldiers said how they were going to a savage land filled with barbaric monsters. But if that was true, then why did the men on Galdush spare them? Was it because they took no pleasure in killing children? One thing was for sure, they will heed their advice and stay away.
"I think we have enough.", Elsha said.
"Yes.", Hallas said, "We should probably return to the village before ferals show up."
"I don't think they will.", Nym said.
"What do you mean?", Meara asked.
"Haven't you noticed that we haven't seen any ferals in several moon cycles? It's like they ran away."
"That is strange.", Cohnal said, "But either way, we should hurry back."
The five of them started walking back. The forest is quite beautiful in the evening and at night. The reason why it's called Yellow forest is that in the late yellow season and all of the green season, the yellow-backed fireflies and red-headed beetles start flying at night and illuminate the whole forest with yellow and red dots. The county doesn't put up many torches in these times because the people love watching the red and yellow dance of insects. A few beetles have come out of the trees and this told the children they should hurry.
As they ran through the forest, Elsha stopped when she heard rustling in a nearby bush. Her curiosity got the better of her and she walked closer to the bush, despite Nym telling her not to. She walked closer and closer and when she got closer she noticed a pair of green eyes inside the bush. She realized immediately what it was and jumped back just before the creature jumped after her. It was a goblin. Short and bald with a big nose and ugly teeth it wore rags and held a crudely made spear. Elsha was backing away but she slipped and fell on her back. The goblin was about to stab her with his spear, but Nym jumped in and shanked it in the side, piercing its heart. Pulling out the knife he grabbed Elsha and the five of them started running back to the village. As they ran, goblins started jumping out of the bushes and shrubs. Dozens of them. The children could see the gate of the village.
"Open the gate!", Nym yelled as he dragged Elsha, "Goblins! Let us in!"
The guards quickly rushed to open the gate. They opened it just enough so the children could pass. One by one passed and Nym was about to cross but he was grabbed by the goblins. The goblin that grabbed him was taller and bulkier than the rest. He dragged Nym back and left as more goblins showed up. The children cried and the guards quickly closed the gate and climbed on the walls. They saw not dozens, but hundreds of goblins. How could there be so many, they couldn't know and there was no time to find out. The one hundred and fifty militia that were at the village armed themselves and prepared to fight. The goblins threw stones at them but the stone is not as strong as an arrow. The militia opened fire with bows and crossbows, killing dozens of them. The larger goblins threw larger stones and even smaller goblins at the wall. A few made it over and some landed on the militia and started stabbing them. One militia fighter used his sword to slice their heads off and grabbed the crossbow of a fallen fighter and shot the larger goblin in the head, killing him and letting his disgusting, bloated hunk of flesh flop on the ground.
"Aim for the large ones first!", he shouted, "I need spears on the edges, they are climbing! Burn them, they hate fire!". He continued to kill more goblins, slicing the heads of the ones who climbed up on the wall's edges. In front, he could see how a section was overwhelmed as the large goblins threw smaller ones at the militia. He grabbed a nearby shield and charged at them, knocking several down and letting the forces on the ground deal with them. As he looked down he saw the last six large goblins grab a log and he immediately understood their role. "Prepare the torches! Grab cloth!". The fighters did just that and threw the burning cloth and torches at the goblins as they hit the gate with their log.
As the battle went on, the militia killed dozens of goblins with volleys of arrows but more just kept coming. They could see the end though, there were no more large goblins and the small ones had organized a suicide charge to overwhelm the wall, but the fighters kept throwing fire and shooting them with arrows. As this was happening, however, something was happening in the village. The people were all in their homes, but a few were still helping the militia fight as they treated their wounds and brought arrows, food, and boiling water. One of them heard something coming from the abandoned well and moved closer to see. When he got closer he peaked in and a green hand grabbed him as another one stabbed him in the throat. From the good goblins came, several of them, then a few dozen. They went into homes and people started screaming. Elsha was in one of the homes, and her grandmother was laying in the corner when a goblin walked towards her, but Elsha took a knife and stabbed it in the head. From her door, she could see more of them running towards her. She was scared but relieved as more militia came. They were from the western village of the county and had come as soon as they could. The fighters went into the homes and started killing the goblins. Chopping off heads, stabbing hearts and lungs, firing crossbows, burning, the militia used everything.
Eventually, the goblins inside the village were all killed and the fires were put out. The goblins outside the wall were mostly dead but nearly a hundred fled. This was a dark night. The south militia lost nearly a third of its force and dozens of people were killed by the goblins from the well, which was covered up with wooded planks and stone. But the damage to the hearts and minds of the people was greater. Mothers mourned their children and children their fathers. Their greatest fear was the goblins coming back.
(The next day)
Everyone looked to the wall defender, Tulgor, the commander of the south militia. They hoped he would have an answer to all this, and so did he. Some wanted revenge, many asked what to do next. Truth is, he didn't know what to do. Something like this never occurred and no one thought it was possible.
"Tulgor.", spoke an elderly elf, "What do you think we should do?"
"I... I do not know, elder.", Tulgor replied, making everyone around them lower their heads in grief, "We could send fighters down the well and see what is down there. It could be their den and if so they are asleep. But I cannot be certain what we will face. If we get cornered we would die. Besides, we do not have the means with which to destroy the den."
"So all that remains is for us to prepare for the next attack?"
"I fear so. And since we do not know where they will attack next, I suggest we inform the mayor to declare a state of alert county-wide, as to prevent further surprises and death."
"Very well. I will personally go to the central hall and-"
"Tulgor!", shouted a militia fighter, "Tulgor! You have to see this."
Tulgor quickly stood up, "What is it? Have the goblins awoken?"
"No. But... I don't know. You must come, they call for you."
"Call for me? Who? Imperial soldiers?"
"No. They are soldiers, but they are wearing green armor and have boomsticks. They're not dwarves, they are too tall and their skin is paler than theirs is."
This greatly confused Tulgor, "Did they say where they are from?"
"Yes. They are from Galdush."
This statement made his heart freeze and the people around him panicked. The enemy from Galdush came here? Why? Have they come to kill them and take their land? Why here, this is a small county. Swallowing the spit that worked up in his mouth he spoke, "How many?"
"I counted only a dozen. But I think there are more in their armored carriages."
"Assemble fifty of our finest. I will meet them."
---
(Earlier)
Operations base Galdush, morning
It's been a while since any attacks have been launched at them and REC got to work. They improved their base, finishing the machine shop, barracks, airstrip, fortifications, and central command. The base was taking shape of a polygonal fort. The reason is that, historically, these types of fortifications were the best defenses against cannon fire until more accurate and powerful forms of artillery were created. But since the highest level of military technology possessed by the enemy is that of the Napoleonic era, it's not an issue. The other benefit is that polygonal forts are built in a way so that the point which needed to be defended is in the middle. This way the rift is in the center and defended on all sides. As an extra precaution, the rift was surrounded by a steel dome with a garrison defending it.
After the full thirty thousand troops made it to the other side of the rift, a few reforms were made. Firstly, all equipment that required a satellite link was not to be used as they had no satellites here. Instead, they used drones until a proper system can be emplaced. Secondly, a squad of four distinct tribals will be accompanying all Rift groups, or RGs, in order to spread the word to the other tribals of North Altia in hopes of bringing more people to the US's side and also showing them why they are not monsters.
There were currently five RGs and each was given an assignment. They were to go to various locations in Meilume and do reconnaissance as well as gain contact with locals and find out more about the imperial government. Each RG was a platoon of thirty-eight rangers from the 75th Ranger regiment led by a first lieutenant and was equipped with standard hardware. Since the end of the Great crisis, Russia and the US have been working on the 'Warrior' project in order to create better gear for soldiers. The result was a helmet, body armor, a one-piece coverall, hearing protection; protective glasses; a protective set for knees and elbows; new grenade launchers, submachine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, ammunition, a combat knife, as well as 24/7 reconnaissance means, a day and night sighting system, a small-size binocular, optical and thermal weapon sights, etc. As well as these, the system comprises a universal shelter, a multifunctional knife, a signal lamp, a watch, winter and summer two-side camouflage sets, an autonomous heat source, a backpack, an individual water filter, a small entrenching tool, breath protection devices, means of radiological and chemical control, a medical kit, and filtering clothes. As for vehicles, each RG has two JLTV3s, two International MaxxPros, and one LAV-40, all armed and ready.
With their assignments given, the rangers got to work. RG-2, led by lieutenant Andrea Williams, was to track down the elven children Spearteam found snooping. The group tracked them down to a nearby place designated Yellow forest. They took a path through the forest and hoped to run into their village. On the way, they admired the environment. The green trees, the clear blue sky, and the animals looked like the ones back on Earth, just with a few distinct features. Like how rabbits have longer legs, foxes have brighter eyes, some even have two tails. Everything was truly fascinating.
"Man this place is beautiful.", said sergeant David Hall, "It's like driving through a national park."
"You said it, Dave.", said sergeant Greg Nivera, "What do you think we'll find here?"
"Man, I'm hoping for some griffons or something."
"Griffons are only in the north.", said Xod, the leanoid, "If we ever get to the dwarven kingdoms we might find one."
"That's a bummer.", Greg said.
"Bummer?", asked Zog, the welfen.
"It means it's a bad thing.", David said.
"Why is that a bad thing?"
"Because I really wanted to see one!", Greg said.
"Quiet.", said Andrea over the comms, "You forgot to turn off the radio."
"Sorry ma'am.", said Greg as he turned the radio off.
"Boys.", said Andrea in the lead JLTV, "Let's find these kids."
"I just hope we don't scare them.", said sergeant Sophia Adams, "I'd hate to make a bad first impression."
"These people live in the Yellow forest.", said Madia the lepian, "It's likely that they know about the Galdush battle and they consider you as an enemy. I wouldn't expect them to greet you with 'open arms' as you say it."
"I don't expect that either.", said Andrea, "But that's why we're here. We have to show them that they don't have to fear us. "
Ksee, the feelian, scoffed at that, "You should use your cannons and destroy them. It's what they deserve anyway."
"We won't be the monsters they say we are. There can be another way. Besides, it's the army and the emperor along with the other stuck-up nobility that's the problem. I'm not gonna kill farmers 'cause a bureucrat attacked me."
Ksee thought about that. She saw what the Americans were capable of, and yet she couldn't understand why they don't just force the elves into submission. As they drove through the forest, they came across another path that led deeper into the woods. The tracker led them there and so they followed it. It was amazing how many things the human soldiers were capable of doing, unlike the elves who only knew how to kill in several different ways. The vehicles moved through the woods and reached a wooden wall about roughly twenty feet tall that looked like it saw action recently. They followed the tracker and found it on the ground in front of the gate.
'What happened here?', Andrea thought as she picked up the tracker.
"Hold it!", shouted someone from the wall. It was an elf and around him about twenty more with bows and crossbows pointed at Andrea, "Who are you?"
Andrea calmly stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams of Rift group 2 from the Rift Expeditionary Corp!". This seemed to confuse them.
"Where are you from?", he asked.
"Galdush."
This made them tense up. They seemed angered. "You are the enemy! Why have you come?!". The rangers aimed their guns at them but Andrea waved for them to calm down.
"We are here to speak with your leader. We only want to make peaceful relations."
"You lie! The imperial army told us that they were heading to Galdush to face the enemy that has come to invade our lands! Thousands went and only hundreds returned! That was your doing!"
"Those soldiers attacked us first. They sent their army through the rift and killed thousands of innocent people. We are here to peacefully solve any and all problems with the empire, but we need your help."
"Why should I trust you?"
In response, Andrea gave her gun to Greg, took off her helmet, and widened her arms, "I mean you no harm!". After some hesitation, one of the elves climbed down from the wall.
"Wait there!".
So the team waited. Some were skeptical about this but did nothing. David walked up to Andrea, "Are you sure about this lieutenant? You really think they're gonna even consider talking to us?"
"All I know is they could've shot us on sight. Do you want to kill hundreds of people today, sergeant?". In that moment, the gate opened and an elf followed by fifty more stepped out. The fifty made a defensive line of shields, which tensed up the rangers.
"No, but if this keeps up I might have to.", David said.
The leading elf stepped forward, "I am Tulgor Salvin, commander of the south militia."
Andrea stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams, commander of RG-2 of the Rift Expeditionary group."
"Why have you come, Lieutenant Andrea Williams?"
"As I stated before, we are here to make peaceful relations with the elven people. We mean you no harm."
"You misunderstood my question. Why are you here, specifically?"
"We are here because we want to prove to you that we are not monsters and savages that the empire claims us to be. We only desire peace."
"You keep saying that word. Peace. And yet you kill dozens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of soldiers."
"Those soldiers attacked us first. You can't blame us for defending ourselves."
"True. Still, how do I know you won't stab us in the back? I see the tribals behind you. You make them fight for you, so how do I know you will not enslave us as well."
"We are not slaves!", Xod shouted, making the fighters twitch, "We chose to fight alongside these humans because we are tired of the empire enslaving and killing us! We fight with them because they promised us freedom! With them, not for them!"
This made Tulgor raise an eyebrow, "Is that really true?"
"Yes.", Andrea said, "We want to end slavery and show you that there is a better way. So if you want to fight them, you'll have to fight us. And I assure you, it will be bloody.". The fighters and rangers tensed up, ready for a fight. But Tulgor laughed.
"Never before have I met a woman with such ferociousness and authority.", he said, "You have my respect. However, if you want my trust, you must offer me more than words."
"And what is it that you want?"
Tulgor thought for a while before answering, "There is a certain goblin problem we are facing."
"Goblin problem?"
"Last night, a horde of goblins attacked us and I lost many fighters. I sense that they will come back but I cannot search for them and leave the village undefended."
"Interesting. Do you have any leads? Or a hunch as to where they are?"
"They came from the forest but it stretches for many leagues. They did however come from an abandoned well."
This caught Andrea's attention, "Very well. But my soldiers will have to enter your village."
"I shall allow half of your men and two carriages."
"Alright.", she turned to the group, "Hall, Adams, bring half the group, one JLTV3, and one MRAP. Madia, Ksee, you're coming too, the rest stay here."
The group organized and entered the village. All the people stared at them and their vehicles, like something otherworldly, which they technically were. They came to the abandoned well and Andrea gave the order to prepare the RC drone and the flyer. The rangers removed the wood and stone from the well and started lowering the drone.
"What is that?", Tulgor asked.
"It's a device we can use to see what's inside the well without going in there.", Andrea answered, "And that one can fly."
"Amazing. How?"
"A long story. I might show you sometime."
The drone was lowered to the bottom and a private drove it. He had to turn on night vision to see. "It looks like a tunnel.", he said, "They probably dug their way in there. You got anything?"
"Nothing yet.", said the other private, "Hold on. I think I see a cave. Yeah, definitely. The entrance is above ground level."
"Goblins are night dwellers.", Tulgor said, "They sleep during the day and hate fire. A cave is where they prefer to live. But to think they would dig their way to our well. I knew they were on a tribal level but this."
"Don't compare us to those monsters, elf.", said Madia.
"Why? They also kidnap people and force-mate with them."
"We only do it when we need to!"
"Calm down!", shouted Andrea, "We had an agreement."
"Ma'am, come look at this.", said a private, and Andrea, Tulgor, and Sophia gathered, "I see dozens of them, sleeping, maybe more further out. And here. It's a boy."
"That is the boy they took last night.", Tulgor said, "He still lives."
"Someone has to go down there and get him.", Andrea said, "Ksee?"
"Why me?", Ksee asked.
"You are the most flexible one. Plus, that's an order."
Ksee groaned but accepted. The private pulled the drone back and tied the rope to her. She was lowered down and then crawled through the tunnel, ignoring the stench on the way. Finally, she came to the cave and looked around, her cat eyes allowing her to see clearly. She saw the boy, who was a little battered but breathing and alive. She slowly grabbed him under the arms but he woke up and started freaking out. This woke up a few goblins and Ksee grabbed the boy and ran back, quickly going back through the tunnel.
She tied the rope around him, "Pull him up!". As they pulled the boy up she could see the goblins approaching, "They're coming!"
"Take this!", Andrea shouted, throwing a frag grenade at her.
"What is it?", Ksee asked.
"Just pull the ring, throw it, and then climb!"
Ksee did just that. After she pulled the pin she threw it at the approaching goblins who grabbed it out of curiosity. A curiosity that would have them killed as the grenade exploded, killing several goblins and blocking the path to Ksee. After Ksee and the boy climbed out, the soldiers rejoiced.
"Please don't make me do that again.", Ksee said.
Andrea chuckled, "No promises."
Ksee saw the boy run to his mother and friends, who cried tears of joy. This made her smile. Tulgor walked over to her and slightly bowed, "Thank you for saving one of my own."
"Don't mention it.", Ksee said, "It was a piece of cake."
Tulgor was confused by that statement, "Cake? There is no cake here."
Ksee laughed a little, "Don't worry about it. The humans taught me, I was a little confused myself."
Greg walked over as he put away his radio, "Ok, it's done. I gave the location to command, they're sending a platoon with flamethrowers to deal with the cave."
"How-", Tulgor began to ask.
"Another device.", Greg said, "We have a lot of them."
Tulgor chuckled, "I see. Thank you, humans. I suppose we can trust you after all. Come, let me introduce you to the elder."
End of chapter 7
​
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Days of travel have passed by since you boarded Orcus's Favor. Dark clouds are gathering above your head, dimming the view of the stars laid upon the night sky. Finally, across your field of vision, you see Stormwreck Isle, faintly obscured by the fog.
A shimmer of ancient magic lingers around the volcunic island. You have only heard legends of it. Legends of dragons fighting to the death, underwater beasts drowing wandering sailors, of the great dragon Sharruth who was locked in the depths of the ocean right below where the isle now floats.
At the edge of the cliff stands Dragon's Rest, a monastery of red stone. Its residents want to create a safe haven out of this blood stained land, a place for those who long for peace, who wish to heal the wounds of the past. How long will this peace last? Only time will tell.
You have been hired by a mysterious man by the name of Lord Aidron to assist his dear aunt in any way she may need while he is unavailable. Good pay, easy work, you had assumed. Simply help out this nice old lady with some menial tasks and get a nice vacation out of this.
Upon your arrival, however, you discover your patron has vanished mysteriously over night. Where is Lord Aidron? Has a dragon truly claimed the near by observatory as the villagers claim? And what exactly is the Priestess hiding?
Campaign Details: Hello! Thank you for reading through this little blurb of mine. I am Zizi (she/her), your new DM, hopefully. I am somewhat of a beginner. This will be the first time I DM something entirely on my own so I am very excited to invite you to this adventure with me.
As you can probably guess, we will be playing the new Starter Adventure: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle! It is a relatively small campaign, going from level one to level three, but I do have some extra material so if I see everyone is having fun, I can expand it to level 5.
This game will be pretty well-balanced all around ( 60/40 roleplay to combat). I will say that fellow explorers will also have quite some stuff to dive into. Not giving out any spoilers, but Stormwreck Isle does have its fair share of secrets.
Requirements: •18+ only (Disclaimer: there will be no explicit material in this campaign, just a preference thing) •Be nice (no one likes a jerk) •Be available at the time stated above •Have a basic grasp of english •Have a working microphone
Generally, I am looking for players who love engaging with the story, NPCs and other players. No prior experience required.
I have three more players already. We were supposed to start tomorrow but one had to drop out so I felt this would be a good moment to search for some new people! We are playing weekly, on Friday, at 7:30 PM GMT.
Character Creation Rules: •Characters start at Level 1 •Anything official goes •For stats, you can roll, take standard array or do point buy. Whatever suits your fancy, but if you roll, you have to keep it •I will allow homebrew, but I will have to take a look at it first •You get starting equipment and you can roll for additional wealth
And that's it! I am hoping to find some cool people to hang out with. As long as everyone is enjoying themselves and getting along, I am a happy DM.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc61YWPE2brKs-QBGbJDLdu9mxIGcA6KeD82YuUu8MiLUSDpQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

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Genre : Science Fiction, Horror, Comedy
Released : 2022-01-06
Runtime : 102 minutes
Director : Terri Taylor, James Wan, James Wan, Kim Sinclair, Jason Blum
Stars : Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Jenna Davis, Amie Donald, Jen Van Epps
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‼️This thesis is the main one for the majority of Russians in the actual situation. And some European and American representatives also support it (not to mention China and other friends of Moscow). And if we gonna look closer to the actual Ukrainian conflict we will see a number of confirmations to this “theory”.
The main trigger of the actual war in Ukraine we might name the collapse💣 of the USSR when the world became monopolar – Washington🇺🇸 became the main and the only one superpower in the whole World. They began to control everything in the world. The period from 1990 to 2005 was a moment of total impunity and permissiveness for the United States. It was during this period that the bombing of Yugoslavia in 1999, the invasions of Iraq in 1990 and 2003, the invasion in Afghanistan in 2001 took place. And this is not a complete list of wars and battles unleashed by Washington during this period.
When Russia🇷🇺 began to build up strength and recover, the white house decided to conduct a series of “color revolutions” in countries bordering to Russia and countries loyal to the Kremlin (for example Libya and Georgia). In addition, Washington have created some “tension zones” near Russian border – South Ossetia and Abkhazia, Nagorno-Karabakh, Syria, etc. And from 2014 to the present day, they have been using Ukraine for the same purpose, which was “nurtured” by the CIA and MI6 in the years since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The main goal for the White House is to destroy or at least weaken Russia, dismember it. That is why the United States are so stubbornly support Kiev and “pushing” their allies to do the same. Having dealt with Russia, it will be easier for them to negotiate with American main enemy – China.🇨🇳
Russians understand that and try to resist the White House’s desire. That’s why they began the war in Ukraine. That’s why they name it the “last stand” for Russia.🧐
What are Your thoughts over the issue? What would You advice to our European community? Do You want peace or You support the war? Leave Your answers in the comments…😉

A screw top corona. Not my first choice, but handed to me cold, so I wasn’t going to decline. An apartment party is not somewhere that I ventured too often, but I had just gotten back in town after a 4-month bender abroad, an annoying sentence, I know. Being apart from my friends, I was willing to oblige to their desired evening of fun. Drinking was not atop my priority list, but I was happy to be back with the crew.
It was summer in a sleepy college town. Not a lot to do and not a lot of places to find trouble, so to the apartment party we went, my half empty corona in hand.
Peter and I had met on Halloween 6 months prior to this evening. There was an instant connection. I have never cry laughed more or felt more myself than when I’m with him. Everyone loved Peter. What’s not to love? He made everyone feel like a friend, funny and witty, welcoming, and kind. Once I got to know him on a deeper level, I quickly realized that there was a sad part of him, and I think that is why we connected so well. We were the life of the party, but sad inside to no one’s wiser. We never talked about it, but I know one another’s company made us both feel at home. I quickly knew that I wanted this friendship to last forever. A week after we met, I knew I would have to let him know that I was not romantically interested in him so we could get on with being friends. At 22, a boy doesn’t want to hear that. Now, some 10 years later, he is thankful for the decision I made for us all those years ago. My older brother, my safe space.
Peter liked to party. It was not odd to go to a party with one another and end the night, separated (and by separated, I mean, Peter getting too drunk and leaving a party with out telling anyone or getting kicked out of a bar). We always found our way back to each other the next morning. Breakfast and a gossip session over the events of the night before.
You can hear the music and the beer pong from the ground floor. Peter and I enter the buzzing apartment. I immediately see an old friend that I have not seen since I’ve returned. I am elated. I run over to Thomas and smoother him in the biggest hug imaginable. His face lights up, shocked to see me. We hold up in a corner, laughing and swapping stories from the semester. Thomas and I have had every single class together since freshman year. Our classroom friendship, turned study buddies, turned into a real-life friendship outside of the hallways and the late-night papers. One of the most genuine people I had during college. I was so happy to be reunited. We had so much to catch up on.
Thomas was shy. He never had a ton to say, which is why we got along so well, I can’t shut up, and he’s a great listener. I think he liked how I just forced my friendship onto him, he didn’t really have a say in the matter. We were spending so much of our academic hours together, which made me want to be friends all of the time. He didn’t seem opposed, and we’ve been friends ever since. The extrovert adopts the introvert, a true match made.
I feel a tap on my shoulder. It’s a familiar face from freshman year. Matt. He was friends with some of my older friends. Nice guy, weird he was at this party. Hasn’t he graduated? I thought to myself.
“Sadie, how to hell are you girl”? he screamed into my ear as he embraced me. Matt was an enthusiastic guy. Happy about everything, until he got too drunk, and enthusiasm turned into extremely annoying, very quickly. We exchanged small talk, until we were approached by another figure.
“Chad, what the fuck is up man, come here. Do you know Sadie? Greatest girl on earth, you have to meet her”?! Matt yelled as he embraced Chad. I knew Chad. He had messaged me while I was away for the semester. A random message, considering I had been at my university for 3.5 years and never heard of him until his Instagram DM. I chalked it up to him hearing about my recent break up. It’s a small town, the dating pool is subpar, and we ran in different circles. I put two and two together, Thomas and Matt are in the same frat, and I’m now learning that that is how Chad fits into this circle. We spoke a couple times while I was away, nothing serious, and left it at “see ya around”. I guess “around” was happening right now.
“I am hopping to get to know her a lot more” Chad smirked. Matt turned to me and continued to tell me about awesome Chas is and how crazy it was that our paths have never crossed.
Everyone knew the answer to that. I had dated the same guy all of college, and up until a few months ago, I didn’t know who the cute, single guys were on campus. I quickly learned that Chad, was one of them. Maybe this was my chance to have a little fun as I entered my senior year. I was going to have an easy year and after a very bad break up, no strings attached fun was exactly what I needed.
“Let me get you a drink” Chad suggested. That’s right, my corona. I had finished it on the ride over here and was too busy talking with Thomas to get another. Chad appeared with a red solo cup of what he called “the house drink”. I took the half-filled cup and took a sip. It tasted like every other party juice that college kids make. Likely an entire bottle of cheap brunettes’ vodka and whatever juice they had in the fridge. I now find myself in another corner, completely enchanted with Chad.
I don’t know how much time has passed; I tell him I need to use the restroom. I push past the crowd of strangers and dodge flying ping pong balls. I find myself in a bathroom. I look at myself in the mirror. Am I having a good time? I ask myself with a smile. It’s been almost 4 years of college and the bad times have unfortunately clouded my memories of the fun times. At 21 years old, I find myself struggling with dark, overwhelming emotions that I have absolutely no idea how to navigate. It’s refreshing to be sober and having fun, especially with a cute boy. I kind of want to go home with Chad? If that’s what this leads to, I think as I wash my hands and reapply my lip gloss. He’s a 22 year old guy, of course he wants me to come home with him. I’ve never done that before. Gone home with someone I barley know? It’s college, I’m single, this is exactly what I can and want to do I think to myself as I place the lip gloss back into my bag.
Anyway, I need to get back out there. I toss the gross rag back onto the counter. Give my hair a fluff and open the door. Thomas is standing right outside the door as I open it. “Stop talking to him” he whispers to me. “What”? I screamed over the blaring music. Thomas mumbles when he’s been drinking so I have no idea what he’s getting on about. “That guy is bad news, just warning you” he says looking at me with the coldest stare he’s ever given. Thomas has never had an opinion on my dating or social life, ever. That’s the best thing about our friendship. It’s just a fun, healthy, no bad energy kind of flow. We don’t talk boys or girls and we can just be ourselves with each other. Hearing him say something about Chad is odd. “He’s nice, we’re just talking” I assure him and prance back to my corner.
I always wonder how different my life would be if Thomas was a girl. If a girlfriend told me to be worried about a guy and not talk to them, I would listen. I would have never gone back over to that guy. I trust my girlfriends with my life. In that moment, I thought Thomas was drunk and crushing on me and didn’t like seeing me with a guy that he deemed to be a “douche bag”. I always wonder if Matt didn’t see me that night, would Chad have even approached us talking. I always wonder if Peter didn’t want to go out that night, I would have never ended up in the apartment. I always wonder if I didn’t take a drink of that juice and vodka, the events of that night would have played out differently. I can’t ask myself those questions these days. I don’t handle “what ifs” very well.
I get back to my corner. I’m feeling flushed. It’s probably the juice in the drink, I’ve never liked a sweet drink. Makes my head hurt. Chad is almost as charming as I think I am. My charm comes in the form of sarcasm and dancing around the line of just being mean. Boys love that.
“I’m having a great time, I don’t even care that we’re at this party, do you want to maybe come back to my place and keep talking? I just live down the street” Chad leans into me closer as he asks with the most soft but confident tone. I don’t even think before I answer, an excited “Yes” slips from my glossed lips.
“My roommate is here actually; he doesn’t drink so he can drive us”. His roommate appears out of thin air, like he was a fly on the wall, waiting for his cue. It's like he had it planned.
I don’t tell Peter and Thomas I’m leaving. The last thing I want to hear from them is all the reasons I shouldn’t. I scan the room; Peter isn’t even in the apartment. Classic. Thomas must be in the room I left him in, I don’t say bye. I take Chad’s hand and we’re getting in his roommates’ car. He sits in the back with me, even though there isn’t a 4th person coming with us. I think it’s odd, making your roommate be your driver? I don’t think about it again. I’m dizzy. It’s probably the car, I do get car sick.
The roommate jumps out of the car before the head lights even turn off and heads inside, it’s like he was trying to run away from us. Again, odd. Maybe he’s just an awkward guy. We get up to his second-floor apartment. It’s a typical boy apartment. The TV to couch ratio is off and there are empty whiskey bottles lining the top of the kitchen counters. I roll my eyes.
Why am I here? My heart is racing out of my chest. I feel like I could run a marathon but, I can barely keep my eyes open. I’ve never felt like this before. I don’t even remember the car ride over here? Which is strange, considering I had 1 corona 2 hours ago and half a class of juicy vodka over the last hour. I keep doing “drink math” in head as it spins in circles. Trying to understand why this blanket of fog and discomfit comes over so quickly. I don’t want to get sick, how embarrassing would that be? Especially in front of this cute guy that I’ve just met.
He walks me into his room. We’re kissing. That’s fine. I sit down on the bed, his palms grabbing either side of my face. I’m good with that. I pull back, “I don’t want to have sex” I said nervously. I’m up front, I wanted him to know that that’s not why I came back here. I just wanted to see how things were, just the two of us. “Then we don’t have to” he smiled as he went back to kissing me.
Darkness. I can’t see anything. I know things are happening, I couldn’t tell you exactly what. Are my eyes even open? I’m trying to open them. I’m trying to talk. I can’t hear myself. It’s like all motor functions just slipped away without me knowing. Like I’m a baby that wants to communicate but can only make a few sounds. I can’t get my point across. It’s extremely frustrating. I can’t even tell if I can move my arms. Panic sets in. I hear an exhausted “NO” escape my lips. I think? I hope.
Darkness. I don’t know how much time has passed. Am I coming in and out of consciousness? I don’t even know what that feeling is like, I’ve never experienced what’s happening to me before. I’m in a bathroom? Why? I look up and see myself in the mirror. I’m naked. I tilt my head up a little further and I see him, behind me, naked as well.
He’s Inside of me. I realize what is happening.
Why are we in the bathroom? Did you need to watch me in the mirror? Did I run in here and you followed me to continue what you had started in the darkness.
“NO, get off me” finally. I heard that. It was loud. Good. I run back into the room. Why are my clothes off? Where is my purse? God why do I always wear so much jewelry, it’s everywhere. I can buy new stuff. No, this is new stuff, get it off the floor. I toss myself together, shoes and bag in hand. I run.
Darkness.
I’m on the phone.
Darkness.
Now, I’m in a car.
Darkness.
Now, I’m swallowing a pill, eating a taco, drinking water out of a glass, and laying in Monica’s bed. She seems very stressed out. How did I get here? I asked myself as I examine my familiar surroundings.
The next morning, we treated it like a normal morning.
Monica was my best friend. Looking back at our friendship, she was more like a mother. A mother with attachment issues. She was in and out of relationships or flings, always obsessing over the ex she dumped. She was an only child, selfishness came natural to her. She was only a couple years older than me. I thought she hung the moon. I had never had a friendship like this before. We were rarely apart. After my break up, I basically lived with Monica. I would have done anything for her, and to be honest, at that moment in time, she would have done anything for me. it’s the only time I had ever felt like she truly cared about me.
Peter and Jake met Monica and I at breakfast. Over the past 6 months, the 4 of us did everything together. We were the life of every party. They were the ying to our yang. This breakfast however, was not like our normal Sunday hungover gossip sessions.
“Are you going to tell them or should I”? Monica blurted out once we all got our drinks. I felt the redness flush over my cheeks. I couldn’t say that word. I couldn’t tell Peter what happened. I couldn’t look him in the eyes. I didn’t even want to tell Monica what happened. She told me she found me in a parking lot of an apartment building that we had never even been to before. She knew. I didn’t have to say anything. I wanted it to vanish out of my memory. I could barley remember anything so if I continued to push it out of my brain, it would be gone like a dream sooner rather than later.
I don’t remember the rest of that breakfast. I don’t remember the rest of that summer. If we’re being honest, looking back, I don’t remember most of college. It’s like that one night triggered something so dark inside of me that it erased everything from my memory. They call it trauma in therapy, but I call it protection.
Of course, I remember things here and there. Funny stories, my walks to class. But conversations, nights out with friends, the day-to-day life of what was supposed to be the greatest 4 years of your life was magically gone.
Not only did it trigger something dark inside of me, but it altered every cell in my body. The extrovert became an introvert. I couldn’t speak with a man with out a chip on my shoulder. I was moody and tired and completely unamused with everything. It’s like a was making poor decisions in my life on purpose because I was addicted to the pain and suffering. Sadness and shame were my new normal. I didn’t want to be happy, that felt like way too much work. I was good at being miserable.
I stayed like this for almost 3 years. I graduated, moved to a new city, made new friends, continued to make awful choices, got into another toxic relationship that wasn’t even a relationship and pushed away a lot of people. Monica and I had our inevitable break up. Thomas was still back in our college town, I didn’t see him often. Peter moved to the west coast the month before I moved to the east coast. An entire country apart. He still came to visit me. He checked on me. We missed each other so much, I know it hurt us both, but we would never tell each other. A simple “miss you” even though I knew it was more than that. I needed him. I needed someone there that loved me like I used to love myself.

This book has literally taken me out of my reading slump. Its so wholesome and cute. With a sprinkle of sunshine/grumpy trope. Not forgetting the spice 🥵. Stephanie Archer has done it again. I loved Hannah And Wyatts book but Finn may have taken top place in my heart. Also Finn redeeming himself for his past actions swoon a man who takes responsibility we love that.
That list earlier, your bucket list?” I whispered. She nodded. “I want it all. I want to be all your firsts. Everything. I want those things with you.”
Being with Finn made me better. He made me less grumpy and more playful, and everything was more fun. Around him, I couldn’t think of things to be grumpy about. I couldn’t even imagine how good it would be to feel like this forever. It couldn’t possibly last. The thought sent a chill through my blood.
I need my sunshine man
Are you my good girl?” “Yes.” “Are you going to come on my fingers?” “Uh-huh.” God, I wasn’t even fighting it anymore. That girl I used to be, the one who put up barriers, she was miles
The praise in this book 😩😩
Been in a lot of relationships, have you?” He stopped walking and caught my hand, pulling me to stand in front of him. His smile dimmed but his eyes were soft. “Nope. You ruined me, but I’m not mad about it.”
Fuck, you’re hot,” he said, kissing down my neck. “I can’t stop thinking about you, Liv. Every night, I fuck my fist thinking about how good your pussy feels.” His eyes were so dark as he said this, and he pulled me back to him for another hungry kiss. “I remember it like it was yesterday.”
The spice 🤪🤪
No one had believed me, but I found the flower. No one but Finn. I smiled at him through my watery tears. “Thank you.” His eyes welled up and he swallowed. I hadn’t seen him cry since we were eight years old. “You did this, baby. This is all you. You found it. You were right.”
I’m not going anywhere,” he said. Words I’d heard a hundred times, but I needed them now more than ever. Finn always knew what I needed to hear.
Thanks for being patient with me,” I whispered. He sighed, smiling back at me. “I’d wait forever for you, Morgan
😭😭😭🥺 if you need anymore convincing to read this book idk for you. Finn really went above and beyond for Olivia & I loved the reverse grumpy sunshine.

Me (25f) and my husband (26m) have a seven month old daughter.
My husband works 12 or more hour shifts, starting in the afternoon and getting home in the middle of the night. Because of this, I do the overnight wakings with the baby, and I get up in the morning with her, and then I have her all morning while he catches up on sleep.
Last night he started work at 3pm and got home at about 4am. He got home shortly before our daughter woke up, and he made her a bottle, but I ended up waking up too when she cried while he made it, so I took over while he laid in bed and got ready to sleep.
She ended up not going back to sleep until almost 6am and then was up for the day at 8am. I got up with her, changed dressed and fed her, fed the cats, cleaned the living room and the kitchen, and made our meal plan for the next week and our shopping list for tomorrow. So I was up and doing things all morning.
He slept until 11, which is a little later than normal but I wasn’t worried about it cuz he comes home so late. But he woke up on his own, no alarm or anything and I didn’t wake him. So while he was relaxing in bed getting ready to get up, I asked if he wouldn’t mind watching the baby while I took a nap for an hour.
He did, and I knew he would, because he’s a good father and a good husband, but he seemed annoyed with me. I asked him what the problem was and he said he’s tired too.
He pointed out that I went to bed at 10 last night even though there was no reason I couldn’t go to bed at 8. He’s not wrong, I just don’t like going to bed that early. He said if I had gone to bed at 8 I wouldn’t be tired.
Has this man met me? I take a nap around noon more days than I dont, and he knows I have chronic fatigue due to a severe vitamin d deficiency that I just started taking a supplement for. Going to sleep early would not have helped me. I also had a triple shot espresso coffee this morning (like I do every morning).
I know I dragged him out of bed, but he was already awake. Should I have let him take his time getting up and then told him to watch the baby? Was it rude for me to ask right after he woke up?
I know it wasn’t me telling him to watch the baby that makes me the bad apple because he’s her parent too, I just wonder if I should’ve waited?
Am I the bad apple?

Knight finally reaches the end of the corridor. The walls are lined with banners ending on a massive steel door depicting the tarantula wasp seal in the center. A voice bellows from the other side. Knight stops before entering to listen but it’s difficult to make out the words. The speech stops and a flurry of chanting, howling, and other strange noises fill the silence. Knight pulls the steel door open to peek through the crack. The air was thick with a sulfuric odor. Her eye widens at the sight of a massive sunken cave filled with cult members, wolves, and other monstrosities circling a fountain spewing a black sludge like liquid. A loud screeching noise echoes from the cave walls. The floor begins to quake like a wild animal stampede that nearly knocks Knight to the ground. To her horror, these sounds appear to emanate from three enormous beasts with horns sticking out from both sides of their mouths. Platforms were strapped to their backs carrying catapults and ammunition. Their long snake-like noses raised up in the air and launched into a screech again. By the look on Knight's face, she had never seen anything like this before. But she knew those things could never leave this cave.
Knight quietly squeezes through the door trying not to arouse anyones attention. Her lungs started to feel heavy from the toxic air. Hiding behind a large stone, Knight watches as the cultist in the center yells gibberish to the group. She looks around at the hundreds of members all focused on the man by the fountain. They kneel before the man praising the fountain as if it was a church. As knight looks around, she notices there are barrels all around the cave. They collected the sludge in preparation for what Knight can assume, a massive offensive. She grabs one of the barrels and slowly drags it closer to the stone. As she goes to get another barrel, a shout breaks the cultist's prayer. Knight looks up and realizes she has been discovered. The cultists and their beasts roar and begin to charge at her. She quickly grabs a torch from the wall and ignites the lid of the barrel before kicking it down the stairs towards the group. Knight sprints towards the door kicking down as many barrels as she can on the way.
When the flaming barrel reaches the fountain it erupts in an explosion that crumbles and cracks the walls. A chain reaction is initiated and all the barrels around the fountain start exploding, sending beasts and cultists flying in all directions and opening a hole in the floor. Screeches of pain from two of the behemoths erupted as they dropped through the floor. Knight having barely reached the exit, was thrown against the steel door by the shockwave. She began tumbling down the stairs towards the crater she had created. Knight catches on to a stone halting her fall. She stands to collect herself realizing just how many she sent to their doom. She investigated the remainder of the room, many of the cultists were still holding on.
A dark shadow rises up from behind her. Knight turns around to see a giant foot about to crush her. She dives out of the and thrusts her blade into the beast's leg. It screams and stands up on its hind legs. With the blade still stuck in its leg, Knight is lifted into the air. She hangs on for dear life as she's thrashed about. The remaining cultists picked themselves up ready to make Knight pay for setting their plans ablaze. They shoot at Knight with arrows and throw spears hoping to land a fatal blow. Her armor deflects many of them, however a few of the arrows hit their mark. Blood streams down from her shoulder and leg. Knight is forced to let go of her sword when an arrow strikes her hand. She lands on her feet and pulls two of her hand axes from her belt. With hatred in her eyes, she was ready to do the grim reapers work.

Battle report: R-02
Time: One day after the Galdush battle, day 21 since REC forces crossed to the other side
Report carried out by: Brigadier General Oscar Wayne
Report states: At noon of the 21st day the remains of the enemy seventh army engaged base Galdush. The attack was carried out by air forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh wyvern corp, and ground forces, consisting of the enemy's seventh siege legion. The wyverns came within roughly three miles from the base before the majority was taken out of the sky by AN/TWQ-2 missile systems, the rest either fled or stayed and were taken out via heavy machine gun fire. The siege legion was destroyed sooner by M155A2 self-propelled howitzers. The majority was eliminated, and remnants fled.
Outcome: Victory
REC casualties: None
Enemy casualties: Estimated 4.000 (Not including wyverns and hardware)
Identification sources: Captured general of the seventh army, Drannor Crax; Captured dwarven commander Dunan Oremelt.
(Twenty days after the Galdush battle)
Imperial palace, Elyana
"What is the meaning of this!?", Canus yelled in furious anger as he stood up from his throne.
"Your Majesty, I can explain.", Laeroth said standing in the center of the Grand chamber, surrounded by senators and the Chosen legions, "I was planning on informing you-"
"Inform me of what!? That the invasion force led by general Ylindar was destroyed in less than a day!? That the troops you sent to Galdush to stop the humans were also crushed!? That we lost nearly two hundred thousand forces, including two of our armies and generals, in less than one fucking moon cycle!?".
This was the first time anyone has seen Canus rage out like this. His whole life he was calm and collected, never raising his voice at anyone. Even if he did have an outburst, its magnitude was nowhere near the level of what the Grand chamber's attendants were experiencing at this moment. Laeroth had no words with which to defend himself and lying was beneath. He underestimated the enemy's capabilities. If they could do this, then he shuddered to imagine what they would do if they were given even more time. All he knew for sure was that a direct approach will undoubtedly lead to failure.
"Your Majesty.", Laeroth spoke, "I meant no disrespect. I only assumed that-"
"You assumed!? You do not assume, Laeroth. You determine! You bring solutions and results. In over three hundred cycles you never once assumed anything. What has changed? Are you losing your edge?"
"Your Majes-"
"Perhaps I should put someone else in charge.". These words shook Laeroth to the core. "Someone more youthful. Someone I can fully trust. Someone capable of cleaning this mess. Perhaps Athtar, maybe Reebus or Syndra. Or... maybe that fellow Alphs."
"No!", Laeroth shouted, his voice booming over the halls, making everyone present twitch. He drew his sword and knelt, "I shall resolve this. I shall not fail you, Your Majesty.". He brought the edge of his sword to his left hand and without hesitation sliced off his smallest finger. Then he placed his sword on the floor and offered Canus his finger. Canus slowly walked over to him and took it.
After observing the finger for several moments, Canus spoke, "Rise.", and so Laeroth did, "This is your final chance. Should you fail me, you will lose more than this finger.". With a bow and a salute, Laeroth exited the chamber. "This meeting is over! Return to your duties!"
With that, the chamber was emptied and only Canus remained with his guard. Sitting on his throne, Canus observed Laeroth's finger. All he could do was hope and pray that Laeroth's determination would prevail.
As Laeroth walked down the halls he patched up his hand with cloth. His first captain walked beside him, "Sir! You must slow down."
"I cannot Helion!", Laeroth shouted, "Every minute we spend bickering is a minute we give to the enemy. Their power, their speed, it is like nothing we faced before."
"Well... What do we do? What can we do?"
"First we need to fortify the North Alston river. Send word to general Lyklor Balphine of the XI and general Reebus Octo of the XII. Tell them to hold the bridges and not let the enemy pass. Since they have powerful cannons, they need to spread their forces out and use long-range catapults. Second, send word to the Meilume nobility and tell them to leave the region. Third, bring me the captive humans as soon as possible. Where are they?"
"About a dozen have been scattered at the Meilume and Kuruk capitals. The rest are on their way to the other cities between Kuruk and Elyana and many will be sent to the mines of the Tubal mountains."
"I want eight captives here as soon as possible."
"Understood sir.". The captain saluted and rushed to his duties, leaving Laeroth who entered his personal chamber and grabbed his flask. After he emptied it he threw it to the corner of the room. Sitting down on his bed he caught his breath and stared at the spirit statues on his shelf and prayed, "Morto, I beg of you. Bring death upon these cursed enemies."
---
(Around the same time)
South village, Yellow forest county, Meilume
Nym will never forget what happened that day. His little crew swore that they would never tell anyone about it. That... man, if it can be called a man, terrified them. When they returned to their parents they lied about how they were running from ferals they saw in the forest while playing. This put the whole village on alert. Of course, it would, a danger of ferals attacking was normal. The whole forest had dens of feral welfen and leanoids, but the county didn't have the means with which to deal with the problem and the empire doesn't see them as a threat overall, so the counties were on their own.
The Yellow forest county had roughly eight thousand people living in it with roughly six hundred militia. It was small compared to some other counties but it held on all things considered. Some people wanted to leave the country as they feared it was becoming too dangerous due to feral activity, but recent events made them choose otherwise. Two massive armies marched near their forest and looking down from the hill the people could see them. The first one marched to the rift to get to the other side and the other after them to assist them. But they were all defeated. This frightened the people of Yellow forest, but they chose to stay, thinking that maybe the enemy won't enter their forest because of the ferals. A long shot, but one they chose to take.
Nym was outside with his friends. The sun was starting to set and they had to return home from mushroom picking. "We never should have gone there.", said Cohnal.
"Stop talking about it.", Nym said, "It's done, stop."
"He has a point, Nym.", Elsha said, "I don't know why that man let us go but... I don't ever want to see him again."
"Same here.", said Meara.
"And we won't have to.", Nym said, "As long as we don't tell anyone anything and we never go to Galdush, we will be fine."
The four of them nodded to that. What happened on that day scared them to the core. But it made them confused more than anything else. The passing imperial soldiers said how they were going to a savage land filled with barbaric monsters. But if that was true, then why did the men on Galdush spare them? Was it because they took no pleasure in killing children? One thing was for sure, they will heed their advice and stay away.
"I think we have enough.", Elsha said.
"Yes.", Hallas said, "We should probably return to the village before ferals show up."
"I don't think they will.", Nym said.
"What do you mean?", Meara asked.
"Haven't you noticed that we haven't seen any ferals in several moon cycles? It's like they ran away."
"That is strange.", Cohnal said, "But either way, we should hurry back."
The five of them started walking back. The forest is quite beautiful in the evening and at night. The reason why it's called Yellow forest is that in the late yellow season and all of the green season, the yellow-backed fireflies and red-headed beetles start flying at night and illuminate the whole forest with yellow and red dots. The county doesn't put up many torches in these times because the people love watching the red and yellow dance of insects. A few beetles have come out of the trees and this told the children they should hurry.
As they ran through the forest, Elsha stopped when she heard rustling in a nearby bush. Her curiosity got the better of her and she walked closer to the bush, despite Nym telling her not to. She walked closer and closer and when she got closer she noticed a pair of green eyes inside the bush. She realized immediately what it was and jumped back just before the creature jumped after her. It was a goblin. Short and bald with a big nose and ugly teeth it wore rags and held a crudely made spear. Elsha was backing away but she slipped and fell on her back. The goblin was about to stab her with his spear, but Nym jumped in and shanked it in the side, piercing its heart. Pulling out the knife he grabbed Elsha and the five of them started running back to the village. As they ran, goblins started jumping out of the bushes and shrubs. Dozens of them. The children could see the gate of the village.
"Open the gate!", Nym yelled as he dragged Elsha, "Goblins! Let us in!"
The guards quickly rushed to open the gate. They opened it just enough so the children could pass. One by one passed and Nym was about to cross but he was grabbed by the goblins. The goblin that grabbed him was taller and bulkier than the rest. He dragged Nym back and left as more goblins showed up. The children cried and the guards quickly closed the gate and climbed on the walls. They saw not dozens, but hundreds of goblins. How could there be so many, they couldn't know and there was no time to find out. The one hundred and fifty militia that were at the village armed themselves and prepared to fight. The goblins threw stones at them but the stone is not as strong as an arrow. The militia opened fire with bows and crossbows, killing dozens of them. The larger goblins threw larger stones and even smaller goblins at the wall. A few made it over and some landed on the militia and started stabbing them. One militia fighter used his sword to slice their heads off and grabbed the crossbow of a fallen fighter and shot the larger goblin in the head, killing him and letting his disgusting, bloated hunk of flesh flop on the ground.
"Aim for the large ones first!", he shouted, "I need spears on the edges, they are climbing! Burn them, they hate fire!". He continued to kill more goblins, slicing the heads of the ones who climbed up on the wall's edges. In front, he could see how a section was overwhelmed as the large goblins threw smaller ones at the militia. He grabbed a nearby shield and charged at them, knocking several down and letting the forces on the ground deal with them. As he looked down he saw the last six large goblins grab a log and he immediately understood their role. "Prepare the torches! Grab cloth!". The fighters did just that and threw the burning cloth and torches at the goblins as they hit the gate with their log.
As the battle went on, the militia killed dozens of goblins with volleys of arrows but more just kept coming. They could see the end though, there were no more large goblins and the small ones had organized a suicide charge to overwhelm the wall, but the fighters kept throwing fire and shooting them with arrows. As this was happening, however, something was happening in the village. The people were all in their homes, but a few were still helping the militia fight as they treated their wounds and brought arrows, food, and boiling water. One of them heard something coming from the abandoned well and moved closer to see. When he got closer he peaked in and a green hand grabbed him as another one stabbed him in the throat. From the well goblins came, several of them, then a few dozen. They went into homes and people started screaming. Elsha was in one of the homes, and her grandmother was laying in the corner when a goblin walked towards her, but Elsha took a knife and stabbed it in the head. From her door, she could see more of them running towards her. She was scared but relieved as more militia came. They were from the western village of the county and had come as soon as they could. The fighters went into the homes and started killing the goblins. Chopping off heads, stabbing hearts and lungs, firing crossbows, burning, the militia used everything.
Eventually, the goblins inside the village were all killed and the fires were put out. The goblins outside the wall were mostly dead but nearly a hundred fled. This was a dark night. The south militia lost nearly a third of its force and dozens of people were killed by the goblins from the well, which was covered up with wooded planks and stone. But the damage to the hearts and minds of the people was greater. Mothers mourned their children and children their fathers. Their greatest fear was the goblins coming back.
(The next day)
Everyone looked to the wall defender, Tulgor, the commander of the south militia. They hoped he would have an answer to all this, and so did he. Some wanted revenge, many asked what to do next. Truth is, he didn't know what to do. Something like this never occurred and no one thought it was possible.
"Tulgor.", spoke an elderly elf, "What do you think we should do?"
"I... I do not know, elder.", Tulgor replied, making everyone around them lower their heads in grief, "We could send fighters down the well and see what is down there. It could be their den and if so they are asleep. But I cannot be certain what we will face. If we get cornered we would die. Besides, we do not have the means with which to destroy the den."
"So all that remains is for us to prepare for the next attack?"
"I fear so. And since we do not know where they will attack next, I suggest we inform the mayor to declare a state of alert county-wide, as to prevent further surprises and death."
"Very well. I will personally go to the central hall and-"
"Tulgor!", shouted a militia fighter, "Tulgor! You have to see this."
Tulgor quickly stood up, "What is it? Have the goblins awoken?"
"No. But... I don't know. You must come, they call for you."
"Call for me? Who? Imperial soldiers?"
"No. They are soldiers, but they are wearing green armor and have boomsticks. They're not dwarves, they are too tall and their skin is paler than theirs is."
This greatly confused Tulgor, "Did they say where they are from?"
"Yes. They are from Galdush."
This statement made his heart freeze and the people around him panicked. The enemy from Galdush came here? Why? Have they come to kill them and take their land? Why here, this is a small county. Swallowing the spit that worked up in his mouth he spoke, "How many?"
"I counted only a dozen. But I think there are more in their armored carriages."
"Assemble fifty of our finest. I will meet them."
---
(Earlier)
Operations base Galdush, morning
It's been a while since any attacks have been launched at them and REC got to work. They improved their base, finishing the machine shop, barracks, airstrip, fortifications, and central command. The base was taking shape of a polygonal fort. The reason is that, historically, these types of fortifications were the best defenses against cannon fire until more accurate and powerful forms of artillery were created. But since the highest level of military technology possessed by the enemy is that of the Napoleonic era, it's not an issue. The other benefit is that polygonal forts are built in a way so that the point which needed to be defended is in the middle. This way the rift is in the center and defended on all sides. As an extra precaution, the rift was surrounded by a steel dome with a garrison defending it.
After the full thirty thousand troops made it to the other side of the rift, a few reforms were made. Firstly, all equipment that required a satellite link was not to be used as they had no satellites here. Instead, they used drones until a proper system can be emplaced. Secondly, a squad of four distinct tribals will be accompanying all Rift groups, or RGs, in order to spread the word to the other tribals of North Altia in hopes of bringing more people to the US's side and also showing them why they are not monsters.
There were currently five RGs and each was given an assignment. They were to go to various locations in Meilume and do reconnaissance as well as gain contact with locals and find out more about the imperial government. Each RG was a platoon of thirty-eight rangers from the 75th Ranger regiment led by a first lieutenant and was equipped with standard hardware. Since the end of the Great crisis, Russia and the US have been working on the 'Warrior' project in order to create better gear for soldiers. The result was a helmet, body armor, a one-piece coverall, hearing protection; protective glasses; a protective set for knees and elbows; new grenade launchers, submachine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, ammunition, a combat knife, as well as 24/7 reconnaissance means, a day and night sighting system, a small-size binocular, optical and thermal weapon sights, etc. As well as these, the system comprises a universal shelter, a multifunctional knife, a signal lamp, a watch, winter and summer two-side camouflage sets, an autonomous heat source, a backpack, an individual water filter, a small entrenching tool, breath protection devices, means of radiological and chemical control, a medical kit, and filtering clothes. As for vehicles, each RG has two JLTV3s, two International MaxxPros, and one LAV-40, all armed and ready.
With their assignments given, the rangers got to work. RG-2, led by lieutenant Andrea Williams, was to track down the elven children Spearteam found snooping. The group tracked them down to a nearby place designated Yellow forest. They took a path through the forest and hoped to run into their village. On the way, they admired the environment. The green trees, the clear blue sky, and the animals looked like the ones back on Earth, just with a few distinct features. Like how rabbits have longer legs, foxes have brighter eyes, some even have two tails. Everything was truly fascinating.
"Man this place is beautiful.", said sergeant David Hall, "It's like driving through a national park."
"You said it, Dave.", said sergeant Greg Nivera, "What do you think we'll find here?"
"Man, I'm hoping for some griffons or something."
"Griffons are only in the north.", said Xod, the leanoid, "If we ever get to the dwarven kingdoms we might find one."
"That's a bummer.", Greg said.
"Bummer?", asked Zog, the welfen.
"It means it's a bad thing.", David said.
"Why is that a bad thing?"
"Because I really wanted to see one!", Greg said.
"Quiet.", said Andrea over the comms, "You forgot to turn off the radio."
"Sorry ma'am.", said Greg as he turned the radio off.
"Boys.", said Andrea in the lead JLTV, "Let's find these kids."
"I just hope we don't scare them.", said sergeant Sophia Adams, "I'd hate to make a bad first impression."
"These people live in the Yellow forest.", said Madia the lepian, "It's likely that they know about the Galdush battle and they consider you as an enemy. I wouldn't expect them to greet you with 'open arms' as you say it."
"I don't expect that either.", said Andrea, "But that's why we're here. We have to show them that they don't have to fear us. "
Ksee, the feelian, scoffed at that, "You should use your cannons and destroy them. It's what they deserve anyway."
"We won't be the monsters they say we are. There can be another way. Besides, it's the army and the emperor along with the other stuck-up nobility that's the problem. I'm not gonna kill farmers 'cause some bureaucrat attacked me."
Ksee thought about that. She saw what the Americans were capable of, and yet she couldn't understand why they don't just force the elves into submission. As they drove through the forest, they came across another path that led deeper into the woods. The tracker led them there and so they followed it. It was amazing how many things the human soldiers were capable of doing, unlike the elves who only knew how to kill in several different ways. The vehicles moved through the woods and reached a wooden wall about roughly twenty feet tall that looked like it saw action recently. They followed the tracker and found it on the ground in front of the gate.
'What happened here?', Andrea thought as she picked up the tracker.
"Hold it!", shouted someone from the wall. It was an elf and around him, about twenty more with bows and crossbows pointed at Andrea, "Who are you?"
Andrea calmly stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams of Rift group 2 from the Rift Expeditionary Corp!". This seemed to confuse them.
"Where are you from?", he asked.
"Galdush."
This made them tense up. They seemed angered. "You are the enemy! Why have you come?!". The rangers aimed their guns at them but Andrea waved for them to calm down.
"We are here to speak with your leader. We only want to make peaceful relations."
"You lie! The imperial army told us that they were heading to Galdush to face the enemy that has come to invade our lands! Thousands went and only dozens returned! That was your doing!"
"Those soldiers attacked us first. They sent their army through the rift and killed thousands of innocent people. We are here to peacefully solve any and all problems with the empire, but we need your help."
"Why should I trust you?"
In response, Andrea gave her gun to Greg, took off her helmet, and widened her arms, "I mean you no harm!". After some hesitation, one of the elves climbed down from the wall.
"Wait there!".
So the team waited. Some were skeptical about this but did nothing. David walked up to Andrea, "Are you sure about this lieutenant? You really think they're gonna even consider talking to us?"
"All I know is they could've shot us on sight. Do you want to kill hundreds of people today, sergeant?". At that moment, the gate opened and an elf followed by fifty more stepped out. The fifty made a defensive line of shields, which tensed up the rangers.
"No, but if this keeps up I might have to.", David said.
The leading elf stepped forward, "I am Tulgor Salvin, commander of the south militia."
Andrea stepped forward, "I am lieutenant Andrea Williams, commander of RG-2 of the Rift Expeditionary group."
"Why have you come, Lieutenant Andrea Williams?"
"As I stated before, we are here to make peaceful relations with the elven people. We mean you no harm."
"You misunderstood my question. Why are you here, specifically?"
"We are here because we want to prove to you that we are not monsters and savages that the empire claims us to be. We only desire peace."
"You keep saying that word. Peace. And yet you kill dozens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of soldiers."
"Those soldiers attacked us first. You can't blame us for defending ourselves."
"True. Still, how do I know you won't stab us in the back? I see the tribals behind you. You make them fight for you, so how do I know you will not enslave us as well."
"We are not slaves!", Xod shouted, making the fighters twitch, "We chose to fight alongside these humans because we are tired of the empire enslaving and killing us! We fight with them because they promised us freedom! With them, not for them!"
This made Tulgor raise an eyebrow, "Is that really true?"
"Yes.", Andrea said, "We want to end slavery and show you that there is a better way. So if you want to fight them, you'll have to fight us. And I assure you, it will be bloody.". The fighters and rangers tensed up, ready for a fight. But Tulgor laughed.
"Never before have I met a woman with such ferociousness and authority.", he said, "You have my respect. However, if you want my trust, you must offer me more than words."
"And what is it that you want?"
Tulgor thought for a while before answering, "There is a certain goblin problem we are facing."
"Goblin problem?"
"Last night, a horde of goblins attacked us and I lost many fighters. I sense that they will come back but I cannot search for them and leave the village undefended."
"Interesting. Do you have any leads? Or a hunch as to where they are?"
"They came from the forest but it stretches for many leagues. They did however come from an abandoned well."
This caught Andrea's attention, "Very well. But my soldiers will have to enter your village."
"I shall allow half of your men and two carriages."
"Alright.", she turned to the group, "Hall, Adams, bring half the group, one JLTV3, and one MRAP. Madia, Ksee, you're coming too, the rest stay here."
The group organized and entered the village. All the people stared at them and their vehicles, like something otherworldly, which they technically were. They came to the abandoned well and Andrea gave the order to prepare the RC drone and the flyer. The rangers removed the wood and stone from the well and started lowering the drone.
"What is that?", Tulgor asked.
"It's a device we can use to see what's inside the well without going in there.", Andrea answered, "And that one can fly."
"Amazing. How?"
"A long story. I might show you sometime."
The drone was lowered to the bottom and a private drove it. He had to turn on night vision to see. "It looks like a tunnel.", he said, "They probably dug their way in there. You got anything?"
"Nothing yet.", said the other private, "Hold on. I think I see a cave. Yeah, definitely. The entrance is above ground level."
"Goblins are night dwellers.", Tulgor said, "They sleep during the day and hate fire. A cave is where they prefer to live. But to think they would dig their way to our well. I knew they were on a tribal level but this."
"Don't compare us to those monsters, elf.", said Madia.
"Why? They also kidnap people and force-mate with them."
"We only do it when we need to!"
"Calm down!", shouted Andrea, "We had an agreement."
"Ma'am, come look at this.", said a private, and Andrea, Tulgor, and Sophia gathered, "I see dozens of them, sleeping, maybe more further out. And here. It's a boy."
"That is the boy they took last night.", Tulgor said, "He still lives."
"Someone has to go down there and get him.", Andrea said, "Ksee?"
"Why me?", Ksee asked.
"You are the most flexible one. Plus, that's an order."
Ksee groaned but accepted. The private pulled the drone back and tied the rope to her. She was lowered down and then crawled through the tunnel, ignoring the stench on the way. Finally, she came to the cave and looked around, her cat eyes allowing her to see clearly. She saw the boy, who was a little battered but breathing and alive. She slowly grabbed him under the arms but he woke up and started freaking out. This woke up a few goblins and Ksee grabbed the boy and ran back, quickly going back through the tunnel.
She tied the rope around him, "Pull him up!". As they pulled the boy up she could see the goblins approaching, "They're coming!"
"Take this!", Andrea shouted, throwing a frag grenade at her.
"What is it?", Ksee asked.
"Just pull the ring, throw it, and then climb!"
Ksee did just that. After she pulled the pin she threw it at the approaching goblins who grabbed it out of curiosity. A curiosity that would have them killed as the grenade exploded, killing several goblins and blocking the path to Ksee. After Ksee and the boy climbed out, the soldiers rejoiced.
"Please don't make me do that again.", Ksee said.
Andrea chuckled, "No promises."
Ksee saw the boy run to his mother and friends, who cried tears of joy. This made her smile. Tulgor walked over to her and slightly bowed, "Thank you for saving one of my own."
"Don't mention it.", Ksee said, "It was a piece of cake."
Tulgor was confused by that statement, "Cake? There is no cake here."
Ksee laughed a little, "Don't worry about it. The humans taught me, I was a little confused myself."
Greg walked over as he put away his radio, "Ok, it's done. I gave the location to command, they're sending a platoon with flamethrowers to deal with the cave."
"How-", Tulgor began to ask.
"Another device.", Greg said, "We have a lot of them."
Tulgor chuckled, "I see. Thank you, humans. I suppose we can trust you after all. Come, let me introduce you to the elder."
End of chapter 7
​
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From the first line of code, to having the money in the bank, it took me 4 years of side hustling while having a 9 to 5 job, and 9 months of working on it full-time.
I spent hours digging Quora, Reddit, startup stories trying to find answers to “how to fundraise as a solo founder without a team”. There were more arguments against doing so than success stories.
Things like:
- find a cofounder
- if you can’t even convince someone to join you, how can you convince investors?
- single point of failure: what if you get hit by a bus?
- you can’t possibly do everything by yourself
Those are all valid and justified concerns.
​
I end up finding the answer myself by going through it for my startup SewaYou after lots of moments of self-doubt.
I’ll walk you through my journey to reach this point.
I hope my experience can help you go through one of the darkest moments in a startup founder’s life - fundraising, because many of us (wrongly) associate our personal and company value or worth with the Yes or No from investors.
Please read until the end to learn how I did it.

Timeline

Quick personal background: I started my career as a software engineer in Japan 5 years ago, and was building on the side my, now startup, SewaYou, an app to help you find language exchange partners in your area.
During 4 years here in Japan Tokyo, I’ve worked for 3 different companies while side-hustling, quit twice my full-time job and finally get the Japanese Permanent Residency to allow me to legally open and run a company.
I quit my last corporate job in October 2021, so almost a year now.
In December 2021, so 2 months after I quit my job, I got invited to speak at a small event to share my experience as a solo founder.
That talk then helped me get introduced to a few people, and I ended up being introduced to a VC in Tokyo. That was the first time that I got my first step into that whole startup ecosystem.
Got an in-person meeting with one of the general partner of the VC, and then got introduced to another general partner over email.
That was right before the year-end holidays, so you can guess that it was not the best timing to start an investment discussion or business deal.
During the holidays, I also took time to reflect and see whether it’s the right choice to raise VC money at this stage of my project, or should I go with Angels investors instead, or wait a bit more.
Then around mid January, so a few weeks after the introduction email, I sent a follow up email, without much follow up.
Social momentum is real: you’ll be forgotten if you don’t keep that momentum and try to quickly get to a potential agreement.
I also incorporate my project into a real company, a 株式会社 for those who know, which is a joint-stock company in February 22. (2022/02/22).
An easy date to remember and to prepare the legal side in case I might receive investment in the near future.
I know that I needed to raise money at some point, as soon as possible and I can’t possibly grow the project with just my 1-year-ish savings and stay as a one-man show.
Startups is about growth, and fast growth.
So, after that, I started to dig into finding and talking to like 4 or 5 potential angels investors instead, and attended one pitch event online.
Btw, making a pitch slide deck is also pretty time consuming but that helps to understand your business better and think of thing like financials, and go-to-market strategy.
At first, I was pitching angels with the mindset of “I need funding”. This will show in your words as you might sound desperate without you even realizing it.
So as expected, I didn’t get much out of it neither. It’s better to hear a clear No so that you can move on.
But mostly, I didn’t hear neither a clear No nor a clear Yes. That’s a difficult situation you can find yourself in. So I appreciate investors saying straight No.
It’s pretty common to find angels or investors who only invest if there’s a bigger player who leads the round so they can follow.
It also doesn’t help to be a solo founder without a team, nor prior track record of exiting a previous startup.
I wasn’t working neither on trendy projects of the moment to get an extra excitement from investors.
I mean language exchange/learning doesn’t sound that trendy or hot the way NFTs or web3 projects seem to be, right?
So instead, I took all the valuable feedback and just focus on improving the product. That’s a good thing to talk to investors even though you don’t get any investment, they still kindly give you valuable feedback!
So I stopped trying to look for investors, and spent the next 5 months in focus mode just building and improving my app, code, talk to users, code, retain users, rinse and repeat.
I spent time testing hypothesis, adding new features, deprecating features that are not used, improving the app performance, make it more user friendly, get feedback and so on.
I played to my strengths and focus on building the best product possible that people want. Better build a beautiful product than beautiful pitch slides.
Then I started to implement a payment system and try to charge users.
To my surprise, I realized that there’re people who need your product enough to be willing to swipe their credit card. That was a big validation and leverage.
At that time, my app SewaYou, which is a social consumer app, had only around 5000 users with around 700 Monthly Active Users.
At around the same time, after getting my first organic paid users, I got introduced to another VC. One Zoom meeting, one in-person meeting demoing SewaYou app, showing some traction KPIs, talking about the big vision.
They decided to invest. A month later the money is in the bank.
That’s what I take: 2 meetings and an app demo, no pitch deck, and small due diligence.
At the seed stage, you know when a VC or investor wants to invest or not after one or two meetings. If it takes too much time for them to decide, that might not be a good sign.
I was asked questions like:
- How much I plan to raise
- How I’m gonna spend that money
- How much % am I willing to give for the amount raised.
We agree on a % that is less than 10% for this first seed round.
In term of the due diligence, it was pretty basic:
- I wrote a small report summarizing my app usage metrics, like monthly download progress, MAU and other basic metrics.
- I wrote a one page Business Plan with projected revenues and user growth for the next year
- and copies of legal papers like the Company Articles of Incorporation. Fortunately, since I already incorporated my company back a few months ago, this step was quick
Then we started to draft the terms for the investment, with the help of a lawyer that they also introduced. Everything was written in Japanese, even though I can speak fluently Japanese, I still need some time to go through it.
The whole process took around 3-4 weeks, from the terms drafting and having the investment money wired to my company bank account.
That was a good thing to incorporate my company and opening a corporate bank account beforehand, so the investment process can go smooth and quick, because at a seed and early stage, there are teams working on projects without having a company ready.

Recap

To recap a little bit my journey:
- it took me 4 years of side hustle and 9 months full-time to build from scratch my app as a solo founder doing everything myself (dev, design, marketing…)
- I had no prior credentials or track records such as second time or exited founder
- time spent from “I want to fundraise” to “the $ is in the bank” was 8 months
- numbers of investors pitched: 2 VCs and less than 5 angels
- pitching event attended: 1 (and it was online due to Covid)
- amount raised: 20 million JPY (which is roughly $150k) for less than 10% of equity
I’ve seen stories where people pitched 98 times at events, reached out to 146 investors, and got 145 “No” and a single “Yes”. How much energy and time were spent on that effort? Fundraising is really hard.
My journey is a bit different, and I hope that can give you more data and founder stories.
Here are lessons I learned and some takeaways:
- as a solo founder, there’s nobody else to hedge against or hide behind, you’re completely out there in the wild
- your army is your product, your execution power and you as a person
- show why you’re the best person to build your specific product
- when your personal story aligns with your startup vision, it resonates.
SewaYou is on a mission to help people unlock and multiply opportunities in life, relationship, and career by reaching an advanced level in foreign languages.
And that’s what happened to me: a foreigner who learns Japanese, landed in Japan, mastering the language and finally quitting my 9to5 job to pursue my dream to build a startup and contribute back to Japan that makes me grow as a person while building my startup.

So what now?

So that’s it, my journey from side hustling to fundraising as a solo founder with zero employee or cofounder.
But like they say: “Alone you go fast, together you go far”, it’s now time for SewaYou to go beyond a one-man show, so I will spend the investment money to start recruiting and build a small team.
I also have this in a video version if you prefer to listen, and also other stuff (like How I built my app part-time for 4 years etc) around building and growing a startup as a solo and foreign founder in Japan.
Thanks for reading so far! 😀

Background

My husband and I have been traveling to Japan several times a year for more than a decade. We’re both into the 20-somethings for number of trips we’ve taken, so our trips these days tend to be relaxed and a little out of the way. We were supposed to do this Wakayama area trip in 2020, but that obviously didn’t happen. My husband speaks, reads, and writes Japanese at an intermediate level, so we don’t have problems with language on our trips. I read katakana, some kanji, and speak basic words and phrases.

Trip Introduction

This Wakayama City/Shingu/Ise adventure was part of a larger 19-day trip. We flew into Tokyo Narita and immediately took the shinkansen to Osaka. We spent 4-5 days in Osaka doing some low-key stuff like errands (for instance, renewing our TTP cards) and drinking coffee (Glitch, Mel, Millpour, Takamura, Lilo). After that, we went to Koyasan for a few days, staying at Ichijoin, where we have stayed several times in the past. We even got engaged there in 2019!

Transportation

For the portion of the trip in this report, we utilized the Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Pass, a 5-day tourist pass. See here for details, although I will say that even buying the pass online cost ¥12,220, so that page’s pricing isn’t quite up to date. We ended up getting about ¥21,130 worth of train and bus travel out of it, so it was well worth it.
Our breakdown of rides/costs looked something like this:

• Wakayama -> Shingu (Kuroshio Limited Express): ¥6450
• Shingu -> Oyunohara/Hongu (bus): ¥1560
• Oyunohara/Hongu -> Shingu (bus): ¥1560
• Shingu -> Nachi (Kuroshio Limited Express and bus): ¥2260
• Nachi -> Shingu (Kuroshio Limited Express and bus): ¥2260
• Shingu -> Iseshi (Nanki Limited Express/Rapid Mie): ¥5230
• Downtown Ise -> Futamiokitama Park (limited express train): ¥740
• Futamiokitama Park -> Downtown Ise (local train): ¥210
• Downtown Ise -> Ise Jingu: ¥390
• Ise Jingu -> Downtown Ise: ¥470

The pass itself is a little weird, though. It’s not linked from any of the main JR pages, and if you reserve it online, you cannot use a machine to pick it up (you must go to a manned window). We had to ask around Osaka Station to figure out where to go, and none of the station staff we talked to knew what this pass was. We didn’t really have trouble using it once we got it, although a couple of bus drivers seemed a tiny bit surprised to see it. Overall, a really good value. Do note that you can only reserve seats up to four times with this particular pass, which was perfect for us, since we knew ahead of time that we’d likely want to take four limited express trains.

Wakayama City

Hotel: Candeo Hotel Nankai Wakayama at Wakayamashi Station. This was actually an amazing hotel with new, clean rooms, a great view, and a rooftop public bath, located right at Wakayamashi Station. I’ve never stayed at a Candeo before, but I’ll definitely keep an eye out for them in the future, as this was pretty impressive in the realm of mid-range to upper-range business hotels. We paid ¥14,937/night (about $110 USD), which was what we’d consider a great value.
March 18: Arrived in Wakayama City from Koyasan (via the Nankai-Koya Line and Wakayama Line). Our luggage had already been forwarded from Osaka, so we only had small backpacks. We stuck our things in a locker and hopped on the Wakayama Dentetsu (the line “run by cats”) and visited a few of the stations to see the cats and get some goshuin. Had amazing late afternoon pizza for lunch at Alla Luce. Did a sake tasting at Heiwa Saketen and had soba for dinner at Shinanoji Kino after visiting our hotel’s baths and relaxing for the afternoon.
March 19: Our room attendant at Koyasan (who always remembers us!) recommended we visit Kada while in Wakayama City, so we did that early in the morning. We went to the shrine there, walked by the seaside, ate amazing grilled shellfish. We walked around Wakayama City in the afternoon, did laundry, and had a low-key dinner at the Pronto at Wakayamashi Station (which turns into a wine and scotch bar at night).

Shingu

Hotel: Hotel New Palace in Shingu. There weren’t a lot of options in Shingu for “real” hotels (not hostels or guesthouses), so this one was perfectly serviceable. It’s a decent walk from the station (probably a solid 7-10 minutes), and it definitely lacks any sort of personal touches or charm, but it was fine for a few nights. We paid ¥12,100/night (about $90 USD), which I’d say was high for the level of the room and service.
March 20: This was the first day our Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Pass was active. The day before, we used our pass to get tickets for the Kuroshio Limited Express to Shingu, where we were staying for the next few days. We arrived in Shingu in the early afternoon and visited the Shingu Castle Ruins (really cute park with amazing views), Kumano Hayatasha Taisha, and Kamikura Shrine (which had way too many stairs!). Dinner was udon and tempura at Masaya near the hotel, which definitely felt like we were eating in someone’s living room. No English menu, and the lady taking our order also spoke no English. Honestly, “no English” was a very common theme of this part of our trip.
March 21: We visited Oyunohara Torii Gate and Kumano Hongu Taisha, which were both pretty incredible sights to behold. The buses run infrequently in that area, so with so much time, we took a quick ten minute taxi ride over to Yunomine Onsen where we boiled eggs in the water in the town center and had lunch. We accidentally ended up walking part of the Kumano Kodo to get back to Hongu, where we enjoyed some wagashi and tea at Yata-an before catching a bus back to Shingu.
March 22: We visited Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha, completing our visits to the three Kumano taishas. We took an early Kuroshio Limited Express down to Kii-Katsuura (making use of that pass!) and then a bus to Nachi. The whole area was beautiful, although it once again had so many steps. I was pretty sick of hiking and steps at this point. Regardless, we got goshuin, saw the falls, drank the waterfall water, and my husband picked up a bunch of omamori for his coworkers. We were back in Shingu by mid-afternoon, where we had great sushi at Jofuku near Shingu Station. The afternoon was relaxing in our hotel’s public bath before okonomiyaki at Go Mi Hiro nearby. The place was super popular, and I’m glad my husband speaks Japanese, because the menu was entirely in Japanese and waitress asked us to write down our orders and hand them to her. Then we had an early night at the hotel to watch the women’s short program of the World Figure Skating Championships, which were taking place in Saitama (yay, I was in the same time zone as a major competition for once!).

Ise

Hotel: Sanco Inn Iseshi at Iseshi Station. This was another pretty bare-bones business hotel, although perfectly serviceable. It was right near the train station, which is a huge must-have for us in most cases. It also had laundry machines, which I wasn’t expecting, but that was pretty welcome since we were caught in the rain one of the days. It cost ¥17,100/night (about $128 USD), which was pretty high all things considered, but I really liked the location.
March 23: We grabbed some breakfast at the konbini and hopped on a very early train to Ise (Nanki Limited Express to Rapid Mie). It was pouring rain, but we still decided to head to Futamiokitama-jinja and Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks). It was too rainy to do much, so we headed back to the our hotel’s general area to get some castella and coffee at Terrace Cafe while we waited for check-in. After that, we relaxed for the early evening at the hotel’s public bath, did some laundry, and then went to get amazing pasta bolognese nearby at Bigoli. They literally have one thing on the menu, and that’s it. After, we returned to the hotel to watch the men’s short program for figure skating.
March 24: We visited Ise Grand Shine—so important that it is merely known as “Jingu”. That’s it. It’s the jingu. We visited the main shrine and the outer gate, ate a bunch of street food, and walked a lot. This was the last day of our Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Pass though, so we took some buses around to make use of it. While I’d say that Ise Jingu was interesting for the religious and historical aspects, it’s also one of the plainest shrines I’ve ever been to. It also has one of the plainest goshuin I’ve ever seen. I guess when you’re the most sacred shrine, you don’t need anything fancy! The streets leading up to it are packed full of food and shops, though, and it was super crowded. In the afternoon, we headed to Camino Coffee for awesome espresso, and at night, we went to Takumi to eat Matsusaka beef—one of the big, famous, ridiculously good beef producing regions alongside Kobe and Omi. Then we went back to the hotel on the early side to watch Kaori Sakamoto take the women’s world title in figure skating.
March 25: We traveled back to Osaka via the Kintetsu Limited Express for the final days of our trip, which we spent in Osaka, Arima Onsen, and Nagoya before returning to Tokyo for our flight home.

Mask Usage

We arrived before the change in official recommendation, but even after that, mask usage was like 95%+ both inside and outside for much of our trip. The exception to this was in Shingu, Hongu, and the Nachi Falls area. For the four days we were in that region, mask usage was much, much lower. I would say it sometimes dropped as low as 30% or 40% outside, and even inside, it was sometimes as low as 50%. Shopkeepers and restaurant staff also often didn’t wear masks, and no one seemed to care much either way because nothing was overly crowded. It was also reasonably warm and sunny for much of that time, which may have contributed to people dropping their masks.
We wore masks in accordance with local norms, so masks on most of the time in cities, but we eschewed them a lot of the time in the Shingu area.

Lessons from Wakayama

• It takes a lot longer to get around in this area. Everything is more infrequent—buses, trains, etc. You definitely need to plan more. We were usually deciding the day before when we’d roughly want to arrive at and leave a place, and we booked train tickets if needed. When we were out on our day trips, we’d routinely check to see when the next buses/trains were so that we wouldn’t miss things.
• Barely anything is in English. Even a lot of menus at places you might expect (like the Pronto at Wakayamashi Station) didn’t have English. Almost no one offered an English menu to us. Bus schedules and train schedules were also often not in English. I was lucky enough to be with someone who had no trouble getting things done in Japanese, but I could see how it would be intimidating for someone unfamiliar with the language.

Overall Random Trip Stats

• Goshuin received: 24
• Hotels/ryokan stayed at: 7
• Number of times luggage was forwarded: 2
• Hours of figure skating competition watched: ~10
• Omamori purchased: 15
• Cheesecakes eaten: 2 (both from Rikuro, which you’re missing out on if you haven’t been)

Edit: My husband insisted I mention this adorable and amazing Yatagarasu daruma we got in Hongu. It was really common to see them for sale there, but they weren't anywhere else (not even Nachi).

Background:
I'm from the Midwest, and moved away to the West Coast for a job 7 years ago. My fiance and I were in the position to buy a house last year, and we decided to make the move back to my home state ahead of having kids and establishing ourselves since we were both remote.
In short, it hasn't been great. We're far from the friends in the city, my family only calls me when they need help and have high expectations from me. I miss our community and nature from the West Coast. We're moving back for QoL and better future job opportunities, as there isn't much for us here.
Finance details:
We bought our house for 800k, with a 4.25% interest rate. We currently pay 4300 per month including property tax + insurance.
Renting
We found a highly rated property management company that:
- has a very detailed and spelled out process, and gave us samples of what they look for with move out reports (they photograph all interiors including doors, windows, check that everything works, etc)- manages other homes in the area/other suburbs, including homes that are higher end/larger than ours
They charge a 6% fee, a $5 administrator fee, and a yearly $99 tax preparation fee. They will find and screen tenants to sign a lease up to 18 months, for which they charge one months rent for new tenants, or a renewal fee of 25%.
Our property taxes and insurance will go up slightly, so let's say 4400 for now. The PM estimated a rent range of 5300-5600. Calculating estimated monthly profits below for the low and high range...
New tenant case:5300-5300/12-5-99/12-4400 = 445 or5600-5600/12-5-99/12-4400 = 720
Resign case:5300-(5300*.25)/12-5-99/12-4400 = 776 or5600-(5600*.25)/12-5-99/12-4400 = 1070
Selling
We have a 4b/3.5b with a fenced yard. We are in a desirable suburb, walking distance to: a large downtown, K-12 schools (which are highly rated), and the train station which takes you straight downtown. There are multiple new builds going in in surrounding neighborhoods and new businesses coming in.
There is no inventory in our immediate area, and our realtor looked at a few recently sold and estimated we could list at 870k and it could go even higher, but it all depends of course. This would net us around 70k, but closing costs to sell are estimated to be 68k, and we paid 17k in closing costs to buy, so this would be a net negative unless the house went into a bidding war.
Options?

1. Rent
   1. Pros: Build equity, higher rent range would attract higher income families which are less likely to damage the place, can still make a profit with PM
   2. Cons:
      1. The house is very old (early 1900s) but almost completely rehabbed. Worried if tenants turn off heat and pipes freeze? Trash the place? Anxiety about something happening to our expensive asset.
      2. I'm not sure if our house is actually worth the +70k or if it's just that there is literally no inventory. It's got modern finishes and a modern look, but I worry that if we want to sell later and there are more homes on the market, the value would go down.
      3. If we wanted to sell later it would need to be staged and dealt with remotely, which could be a hassle, but I trust and like our RE agent for this.
2. Sell
   1. Big hassle right now with getting ready to move + small repairs + getting it open house ready. We might need to get more furniture or buy more decorations as it's a little bare, which is then another pain to move
   2. We could stand to either lose 20k (which would be like the cost of renting for the year) or break even. I don't think I ever want to move back (but maybe having kids will change this? hard to tell), so we can put this chapter to rest and move on.

Any thoughts? Anyone in a similar situation that has had luck renting a SFH from across the country? Or is it not worth the hassle?

Since JBD’s name came up again in the recently released Flora police reports, below are more details for her participation in the murder of Willie Lee Smith JR, in Flora, Indiana.
Reports -https://www.reddit.com/florafoucomments/12625vz/flora_police_report_pdf_law_enforcement_interviews/
​
June 16, 2021

• Willie Smith was lured to Flora through a dating app to meet up with Shianne Brooks-Brown for a paid sexual encounter. He was attacked by Tyrone Leftridge and (allegedly) Shianne Brooks-Brown. Jennifer L Barnes Dean was involved too. (The names have been made public via the media and court documents)
• Leftridge was arrested and charged with battery and robbery.

🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
🔗 https://www.carrollcountycomet.com/articles/circuit-court-723/
🔗 https://www.wrtv.com/news/working-for-you/flora-police-man-robbed-and-beaten-to-death
🔗 https://www.bolde.com/man-first-date-robbed-beaten-death/
June 18, 2021 - Willie died from blunt force trauma from the attack.
JUNE 20, 2021 - Willie Smith was beaten to death in Flora, Indiana

UPDATE (Dec. 1, 2022): Tyrone Leftridge pleaded guilty to murder in October 2022. Two other charges were dismissed. He was sentenced to 45 years.
FLORA, Ind. — Willie Smith was 55, his kidneys were failing and his family said he was beginning the process of signing up for an organ transplant.
Instead, Smith’s organs were donated on Father’s Day after his death as the result of a beating in Flora last week.
Jannette Smith said she was told by investigators that her father withdrew $120 from an ATM in Lafayette last Tuesday and traveled to Carroll County to meet a woman.
Willie was discovered in a house suffering from head injuries.
Tyrone Leftridge, of Lafayette, has been charged with murder, aggravated assault and robbery.
Jannette said Leftridge called her family from jail Friday and denied killing her father. She said Leftridge pointed the finger at TWO WOMEN who he said were with him at the time of the robbery.

🔗 https://fox59.com/news/lafayette-man-beaten-to-death-in-flora-after-responding-to-dating-app/
June 20, 2021

• Shianne Brooks-Brown was arrested and charged the following day with murder & robbery.
• Tyrone Leftridge charges changed to murder, robbery & battery.

June 23, 2021

• Two charged with murder in Flora, Indiana

🔗 https://www.carrollcountycomet.com/articles/2-charged-in-murder-at-flora/
July 2021

• Jennifer Lynn (Barnes) Dean was charged with murder and robbery

🔗 https://www.carrollcountycomet.com/articles/circuit-court-723/
🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
August 4, 2022

• Jennifer L (Barnes) Dean was sentenced to 60 years at IDOC for murder (Case# 08C01-2107-MR-000002)

🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
September 2, 2022

• Jennifer started the appeal process for her sentence (Case# 22A-CR-02104)

🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
October 23, 2022

• Tyrone Leftridge accepted a plea deal and was sentenced to 45 years at IDOC for murder (case# 08C01-2106-F2-000005)

🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
April 10, 2023

• Shianne Brooks-Brown jury trial begins (case# 08C01-2106-MR-000001)

🔗 https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search
​
Notes:

• JBD’s son is a self/ confessed pyromaniac. He is not necessarily an arsonist.
• SBB, charged for her participation in the murder of Willie Smith, is JBD’s sort of step daughte mother figure.
• JBD also goes by JLBD, JLB, JB, JLD, JD, JM, and other fake last names.
• There are posts & photos shared on social media of (alleged) horrible abuse by JBD done to her child/dren.
• More info on JBD can be found on Mycase and IDOC.

​
⭐️ Please share any other details in the comments.

My sons father will soon have 4 children under 25 months old. There’s possibly a 5th child around the same age. Little back story. I found out the man I was dating had another woman pregnant. She was 3 months ahead of me. She told me she has a good job, a large house, and he planned on moving in with her. We had planned our child so everything was so unexpected. I contacted her, told her everything. She stayed, I was blocked. A week after my son was born a woman contacted me and told me she had a 14 month old with my child’s father. I let the woman he is with know. I guess she was fine with it because she got pregnant right after. They’ll soon have 2 children under 14 months and act like a picture perfect family. They travel, take professional family photos, and completely ignore that fact he has other children. She stalks me multiple times a day and I can’t help but get angry. Should I contact his family and let them know he has other children? Should I contact hers and tell them about him and his other children? I don’t want to start drama but I can’t help but feel telling them about my son and his siblings is the only way I can move on.

(Throwaway because I want anonymity. English isn't my first language)
My parents have been married for almost 30 years, but things have never been good between them. My father (54M) has always been emotionally abusive towards my mom (50F), siblings (27M, 24F) and me (22F) (for context: we still live at home because of the housing crisis and/or joblessness).
Examples of his behavior:
- He never makes his own food. My mom makes his breakfast, lunch and dinner. If she can't, I usually do it. If we don’t feed him on time or if the food isn't what he wanted, he gets angry. He never cleans up after himself either.
- He's always right. If we tell him he's wrong, he makes us feel dumb even if we’re right. Weeks later he’ll say the same thing again. We learned to just let it be. He also never listens to my mom because he thinks she’s stupid (she has ADHD and can be very chaotic and forgetful).
- Sometimes we don’t even know why he’s angry, but it becomes everyone’s problem. It’s the silent treatment for weeks at a time. He usually stops if one of us grovels.
This behavior is especially bad towards my mom. I feel very protective of her because she’s the one who raised me. She's been severely depressed and I know that my father’s behavior hurts her, but she doesn’t know just how much he hates her because he will only berate my mom when she's gone. Or he’ll just curse her out under his breath so she can’t hear but others can. I've always kept this to myself because I knew how much it would hurt her.
She still loves him, as he was the breadwinner when my mom was a SAHM up until I was 14, though she had a job cleaning houses 4 days a week from 9AM-1PM since I was 7-ish. My mom also made a huge financial mistake when I was still a kid and he’s the one who got us out of it (and he won’t let us forget about it either).
However, things have changed. My mom has had a 9-5 job for a couple of years now and is even looking to advance her career. My father is no longer the sole breadwinner, but his behavior has gotten worse. A few weeks ago, I reached my breaking point and blew up. I blamed my mom for letting us grow up with an emotionally abusive parent and I blamed my father for everything else. After this, I left to stay with a friend and I haven't been home since.
Since then, things have been tense in my family. My father stopped talking and has become even lazier and more demanding. My mom is desperate to fix things, taking his side in the conflict and tolerating his behavior. My siblings are also struggling with the situation, with my sister being tearfully angry at me because she doesn’t have anywhere to go.
Although I know my anger towards my father was justified, I can't help but feel guilty for hurting my family like this. However, I feel like they should figure out an escape plan for themselves because I refuse to apologize for standing up to the abuse. AITA for blowing up and then leaving my family to deal with the aftermath?

So waaaay back in primary school, in my last year (year 6 - aged 10-11) me and a friend saw something unexplainable.
Our seats both faces the window and as we were close to the side entrance of the school we can see some of the houses in the street that backs up right up to the wall of the school grounds.
Nor this side entrance has a house that had been abandoned and was in a state of disrepair
I mean boarded up windows, chain and locks on the door, overgrown garden the works and clearly not lived in.
This house had a window you could see from were we were sat, and on some random school day we both saw a man dressed in a pristine white suit, a wide hat to match and white tie (think col His face was in the shadows so we couldn’t see what he looked like.
We both saw him and he takes a half step directly backwards and seemed to vanish.
Now this pit a shiver down my spine, and we both agreed the moment felt creepy. But if you’ve read this far you might be thinking
….so?
Well the kicker was when the following week a machete was found in the woodlands (fenced off wooded area on school grounds used for nature lessons I guess? Think forbidden forest in Harry Potter but shit, same with the school anyway I digress)
Yeah, big ass knife covered in blood stabbed through a tree.
There were police all over the school, nothing else was ever found.
Creepy af, still dunno what happened if they were linked just freaky.
Any way what do you guys think?