#Spire Sports + Entertainment

[mitchbeck]

GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS RESIGN LA GRISSON

By: Mark Shelley, Greenville Swamp Rabbits GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, ECHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings, announced today that the club has re-signed defenseman LA Grissom to an ECHL contract for the 2023-24 season. Grissom, 27, returns to the Swamp Rabbits for a second season after being acquired by Greenville on January 10, 2023, in a trade with the Allen Americans.…

[simschallengesfor3and4]

The Kingdom Challenge for sims 4

You are new to your kingdom having just taken over. It is now your time to rule and build a great kingdom, how will you rule with an iron fist of fear or with love and kindness?

Starting with kingdom rules:

Choose your world this world will be your kingdom, meaning the more lot’s the world has the more you have to build and the more you can have to live there.

Must build your palace, a “farm”, a library, a bar and 3 houses to start out your kingdom.

May make a family on the farm or pick one, make 3 other families, they will be your subjects, they may be workers, noble’s or royals.

Family rules:

Workers, may only live on lot’s as big as 15x10, 20x15, 20x20, if they are farmers they may live on 50x40, 50x50, 64x64, if you have for rent they may live in small and medium rentals, if you choose a world with apartments they may live in san myshuno in lot (1310 21 Chic Street/910 Medina Studios/1312 21 Chic Street/17 Culpepper House/1313 21 Chic Street/920 Medina Studios/19 Culpepper House) Evergreen harbor (Pinecrest Apartments #402/Pinecrest Apartments #404/Stonestreet Apartments #3/Stonestreet Apartments #4)

May only work as Babysitter, Barista, Criminal, Culinary, Entertainer, Actor, Fast food employee, Fisherman, Gardner, Manual laborer, Military, Painter, Engineer, Retail-Employee, Writer, Style Influencer, or have a farm if you don’t have cottage living or horse ranch the farm will consist of plants only, if you have the packs you must have chickens to get egg’s, you may pick any animal to get wool and milk.

Workers may only adopt strays, if they are a farmer they may buy all pet’s including horses.

Marriage, may only be between workers and nobles

Workers can become nobles, through work the Criminal career at 9, Writer at 10 or Military at 9, or status money at 50.000 and friends with 6 noble families every member.

Family size may be as big or small as you wish.

Female must move into the family she married into, males become head of the house, elders may not move out and must stay with the head of the house. May only have one house.

Nobles may live on lot’s 15x10, 20x15, 20x20, 30x20, 30x30 and 40x30, if you choose a world with apartments they may live in san myshuno in lot (701 ZenView/ 2A Jasmine Suites/2B Jasmine Suites/18 Culpepper House/VIII Landgraab/121 Hakim House/122 Hakim House/888 Spire Apartments/IX Landgraab/930 Medina Studios/FountainView Penthouse/1020 Alto Appartments/1010 Alto Appartment/Torendi Tower Penthouse/may turn Stargazer Lounge into a penthouse) May not live in any apartments in Evergreen harbor.

May work as Astronaut, Athlete, Business, Cheer Team Member, Chess Team Member, Civil Designer, Computer Team Member, Conservationist, Critic, Detective, Doctor, E-Sports Competitor, Education, Football Team Member, Freelancer, Interior Decorator, Law, Military, Politician, Salaryperson, Scientist, Scout, Secret Agent, Self-employed, Simfluencer, Soccer Team Player, Social Media, Tech Guru, Video Game Streamer, Writer.

May adopt and buy all pets, may also take in strays, may also breed and sell purebred pets as a job, to other nobles or royals.

May have more than one estate, may have a greenhouse but not a farm.

Marriage may be between workers, nobles and royals.

Can become royals through marriage only, but only if a son marries into the royal family. Can become workers if status becomes low become enemies with 2, become disliked by 5, and if caught cheating but only the one who did the cheating.

If married to a worker the noble marrying will become a worker themself and will be disinherited, they may see their family but may never get to be a royal and to be noble again they have to get 50.000, must become friends with the king and queen and get either Criminal career at 9, Writer at 10 or Military at 9 . 

Family size must be medium to big, must have at least 3 kids.

Female must move into the family she married into, males become head of the house, elders may not move out and must stay with the head of the house.

Royals may live on 40x30, 40x40, 50x40, 50x50 and 64x64, if you choose a world with apartments they may live in san myshuno but only in the uptown, they may not live in any apartment in evergreen harbor.

May work as Business, Cheer Team Member, Chess Team Member, Computer Team Member, Conservationist, Critic, Drama Club, Freelancer, Law, Military, Politician, Self-employed, Simfluencer, Soccer Team Player, Social Media, Writer.

May buy and adopt any pets, may sell pets to other royal families.

May have more than one estate, must have a vacation house, may have a small farm or greenhouse.

Marriage must be between nobles and royals, to stay royal

If married to a worker the royal marrying will become a worker themself and will be disinherited, they may see their family but may never get to be a royal again. 

Family must be big must have at least 4 kids 8 if you like a challenge

Female must move into the family she married into, males become head of the house, elders may not move out and must stay with the head of the house.

Cas rules:

Worker, must not wear gloves in any outfits as it’s a sign of either nobility or royalty 

They must have at least one of the worker traits Creative, Maker, Green Fiend, Rancher, Animal Enthusiast, Horse Lover, Dog Lover, Cat Lover, Freegan or Loves Outdoors. Can pick any other and earn any other you like but may not switch out the worker trait for another trait, may have noble and royal traits.

Workers must use some clothing items from the Outdoorsy Fashion, Hipster Fashion, Country Fashion, BoHo Fashion and/or Basics Fashion.

May not have extravagant fancy clothes. Is for nobles and royals.

To make it easier have their be a W in their last or first name or make it a second name like Nadia W Smith or something like that, so you know they are a Worker family.

Noble, must use some clothing items from the Preppy Fashion and/or Polished Fashion.

Nobles must wear gloves on party and formal outfits, and can wear on others too.

Nobles may wear extravagant fancy clothes.

To make it easier, have a N in their last or first name or make it a second name like Nadia N Smith or something like that, so you know they are a Noble family.

Nobles must have at least one of the noble traits Bookworm, Art Lover, Perfectionist, Overachiever, Materialistic, Proper, Self-Absorbed, Snob, Nosy, Jealous, Insider, Generous, Foodie.

Royal, must use some clothing items from the Polished Fashion and/or Preppy Fashion.

Royals must wear at least one outfit with gloves, does not need to be a main outfit.

They must wear extravagant fancy clothes, they may have more relaxed outfits but they need to still be somewhat fancy and pretty.

To make it easier, have a R in their last or first name or make it a second name like Nadia R Smith or something like that, so you know they are a Royal family.

Royals must have at least one of the royal traits Ambitious, Hot-Headed, Paranoid, Wise, Materialistic, Overachiever, Perfectionist, Generous, Proper, Self-Absorbed and/or Snob. 

Gameplay rules:

To get the first new family into the world the regent must get to level 4 charisma and have held 3 parties.

Next family is at level 7 of charisma and held 6 parties. 

Next family is at level 10 charisma and held 10 parties.

After that it depends on money too, 1000 per person.

To get the new building of choice, you must have at least 30.000 per time.

Royals must make their line strong with kids and with high skills and education if you have university.

Royals must hold parties for small and big occasions, and engage with their subjects, they can be mean they can be nice, up to you.

Royals must set rules if you have eco lifestyle they pick the thing that will be set in place.

If you have get together you may make groups, as consuls and such, may use it to make rules too.

Nobles must hold parties for big occasions only.

Nobles must work hard for their family and earn level 10 in at least 3 skills, and get at least one education if you have university.

Workers may not hold any parties.

Workers may not take an education unless they become noble.

Workers work hard for their family and what they have.

[la-jolie-mln-posts]

How to Throw a Fabulous Kentucky Derby Party

How to Throw a Fabulous Kentucky Derby Party in Your Backyard

The Kentucky Derby, often called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," is not just a horse race—it's a social event that brings people together to celebrate the thrill of the race, fashion, and Southern hospitality. While attending the Derby in person may not always be possible, you can still capture the spirit of this iconic event by hosting a fabulous Kentucky Derby party in your own backyard. In this blog, we will guide you through the steps to throw an unforgettable Derby party that will leave your guests talking for years to come.

Set the Scene

Transform your backyard into a mini Churchill Downs by creating a festive and elegant atmosphere. Decorate with red roses (the official flower of the Derby), jockey silks, and horseshoes. Set up tables and chairs adorned with checkered tablecloths or elegant linens. Don't forget to display the iconic Twin Spires as a centerpiece.

Dress the Part

Encourage your guests to embrace the Derby's fashion-forward tradition by dressing up in their finest attire. Men can sport seersucker suits, bowties, and fancy hats, while women can wear elegant sundresses and elaborate hats or fascinators. Consider hosting a "Best Dressed" contest to add some excitement to the fashion aspect of the party.

Signature Cocktails

No Kentucky Derby party is complete without the signature drink—the Mint Julep. Serve up this refreshing bourbon-based cocktail in traditional silver julep cups, garnished with fresh mint sprigs and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For non-alcoholic options, offer a mocktail version or create a refreshing fruit punch.

Southern Fare

Indulge your guests with a delectable spread of Southern cuisine. Serve up classic dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, Kentucky hot browns, and bourbon-glazed ribs. Don't forget to include traditional sides like cornbread, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese. For dessert, offer a selection of pecan pie, bourbon balls, and Derby pie.

Place Your Bets

No Derby party is complete without a little friendly wagering. Set up a betting station where guests can place bets on their favorite horses using play money. Provide a tote board to display the odds, and announce the winners after the race. Offer small prizes for those who correctly predict the winner, place, or show.

Entertainment

Create a lively and engaging atmosphere by providing entertainment for your guests. Set up a live stream of the Kentucky Derby race, ensuring everyone has a clear view of the action. Consider hiring a live band or playing upbeat music that evokes the spirit of the South. You can even organize fun lawn games like horseshoes or cornhole to keep guests entertained throughout the day.

Hosting a Kentucky Derby party in your backyard is a fantastic way to bring the excitement and elegance of this iconic event to your own home. By paying attention to the details, from decor and fashion to food and entertainment, you can create an unforgettable experience for your guests. So, gather your friends and family, don your best attire, and get ready to celebrate the Kentucky Derby in style. Cheers to a fabulous Derby party!

La Jolie MLN: ”It’s our mission to give young ladies the lessons all of you can share with us. So, let’s share our experiences, strength and stories. We cordially invite you to join a cohort of empowered women. Please send your stories to Blog@lajolie-mln.com

[yogeshblogs]

5 Stunning Places to Visit near Jaipur within a day

Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is a magnificent Hindu temple located in Delhi, India. It is a spiritual and cultural landmark that showcases the rich heritage and architectural brilliance of India. The temple complex is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and encompasses stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens.

Visitors to Akshardham Temple are greeted by the imposing main monument, which stands tall with its intricately carved pillars, domes, and spires. The temple's architecture is a blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and modern technology, creating a mesmerizing sight that leaves visitors in awe.

Inside the temple, visitors can explore the intricately carved halls, prayer rooms, and exhibition spaces that depict the life and teachings of Lord Swaminarayan. The exhibitions showcase the rich history, culture, and values of India, providing an educational and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.

The temple complex also features a stunning musical fountain show, where water, lights, and music come together to create a captivating spectacle. The beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the temple provide a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to relax and reflect.

Akshardham Temple is not just a place of worship but also a center for cultural and spiritual activities. It serves as a hub for promoting Indian art, culture, and values, hosting various events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.

A visit to Akshardham Temple is a truly enriching experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the spiritual and cultural heritage of India. The temple's grandeur, architectural beauty, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a glimpse into India's rich cultural tapestry.

Jaipur Wax Museum

The Jaipur Wax Museum is a fascinating attraction located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. It is a unique museum that showcases lifelike wax statues of famous personalities from various fields, including history, politics, sports, Bollywood, and more.

Visitors to the Jaipur Wax Museum can marvel at the incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating these wax figures. Each statue is meticulously crafted to resemble the real-life person, capturing their expressions, features, and mannerisms with astonishing accuracy.

The museum offers a journey through time as visitors can encounter historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, and Queen Elizabeth II. They can also come face-to-face with renowned Bollywood celebrities, sports icons, and political leaders.

The Jaipur Wax Museum provides a unique opportunity to click photographs with these wax figures, creating memorable moments and a sense of interaction with the famous personalities. It is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of entertainment, education, and artistic appreciation.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a Bollywood fan, or simply curious about the art of wax sculpting, the Jaipur Wax Museum is a must-visit destination in Jaipur. It offers a chance to get up close and personal with your favorite icons and experience a touch of stardom in the heart of Rajasthan.

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort is a majestic fortress located on the Aravalli hills overlooking the Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Built in the 18th century, this historic fort holds great significance in the history and culture of Jaipur.

Perched on the rugged hills, Nahargarh Fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of ... ... ... the cityscape below. Its strategic location was originally intended to provide defense and protection to the city. The fort's name, Nahargarh, translates to "abode of tigers," reflecting the belief that it was haunted by the spirit of a Rathore prince named Nahar Singh.

The architecture of Nahargarh Fort is a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, characterized by intricate carvings, delicate frescoes, and ornate decorations. The fort complex consists of several palaces, courtyards, temples, and gardens, each showcasing the grandeur and opulence of the bygone era.

Visitors to Nahargarh Fort can explore its various attractions, including the Madhavendra Bhawan, a multi-level palace with suites for the king and his queens. The palace features beautiful frescoes, stunning mirror work, and a unique architectural design that allows cool breezes to flow through the rooms.

Apart from its architectural marvels, Nahargarh Fort also offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. The fort's sprawling gardens, including the Charbagh Garden, provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city below.

Nahargarh Fort is not only a historical landmark but also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich heritage, stunning views, and architectural splendor. It offers a glimpse into the royal past of Jaipur and serves as a reminder of the city's glorious history. A visit to Nahargarh Fort is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the regal charm and cultural heritage of Rajasthan.

City Palace, Jaipur

The City Palace in Jaipur is a magnificent architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the rich history and grandeur of the city. Located in the heart of Jaipur, Rajasthan, this sprawling palace complex is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.

Built in the 18th century, the City Palace served as the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur and continues to be the residence of the royal family. The palace complex is a captivating fusion of palaces, courtyards, gardens, and temples, each showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and intricate detailing.

As you enter the City Palace, you are greeted by the grandeur of its ornate gateways and towering structures. The palace complex is divided into several sections, including the Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, and the Chandra Mahal. Each section offers a unique glimpse into the royal lifestyle and houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, paintings, weaponry, and textiles.

The palace's architecture is a visual delight, with its delicate frescoes, stunning mirror work, and intricately carved marble pillars. The palace also offers panoramic views of the Pink City, allowing visitors to admire the beauty of Jaipur from its elevated position.

The City Palace is not just a historical monument but also a living heritage that continues to be a center for cultural activities and events. It houses a museum, showcasing the royal artifacts and treasures, and serves as a venue for traditional Rajasthani performances, festivals, and exhibitions.

A visit to the City Palace is a journey through time, where you can immerse yourself in the opulence and grandeur of the royal era. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking to experience the regal charm of Jaipur.

Dolls museum

The Dolls Museum in Jaipur is a delightful attraction that showcases a vast collection of dolls from different parts of the world. Located in the Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan, this unique museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures and traditions through the art of doll-making.

The museum houses a wide variety of dolls, each representing a specific region or community. From traditional Indian dolls dressed in vibrant ethnic attire to dolls from countries like Japan, China, Russia, and many more, the collection is a testament to the beauty and diversity of global cultures.

Visitors to the Dolls Museum can admire the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating these dolls. Each doll is dressed in authentic costumes, adorned with traditional jewelry, and reflects the unique characteristics of its respective culture.

The museum not only serves as a visual treat but also provides an educational experience for both children and adults. It offers insights into different customs, festivals, and lifestyles, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

The Dolls Museum in Jaipur is a must-visit for doll enthusiasts, art lovers, and those interested in exploring the world's cultural heritage. It is a place where imagination comes to life, and visitors can embark on a journey of discovery through the fascinating world of dolls. If you are looking for visit these places in Jaipur then, I recommend you the best taxi service in Jodhpur named Jodhpur Cab Service. Jodhpur Cab Service provides there customer best services by their chauffeur.

[excursionelixir]

Things to Do in Chadderton UK: Unveiling the Enigmatic Charm

Chadderton, a mesmerizing town nestled in the heart of the United Kingdom, beckons curious travelers with its enigmatic charm and enticing array of experiences. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve had the privilege of embarking on an extraordinary journey through this captivating destination, unearthing hidden gems and immersing myself in the vibrant tapestry of its culture. Join me as we dive into a comprehensive guide, filled with perplexing and bursty insights, showcasing the top attractions, off-the-beaten-path wonders, and mouthwatering culinary delights that Chadderton has to offer.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Chadderton

The Chadderton Guild Hall

Prepare to be transported through time as you step foot into the Chadderton Guild Hall, an architectural marvel dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the stunning craftsmanship of its intricate facade and venture inside to unravel the secrets of the town’s rich history. Adorned with captivating artifacts and historical memorabilia, this iconic landmark invites visitors to immerse themselves in Chadderton’s fascinating past.

Foxdenton Hall Estate

Located in the heart of Chadderton lies the enigmatic Foxdenton Hall Estate, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Meander through the sprawling gardens, bursting with vibrant floral displays and peaceful nooks, where tranquility reigns supreme. Allow the serenity of the estate to captivate your senses and transport you to a state of blissful calm.

Chadderton Fold Nature Reserve

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the untamed beauty of the Chadderton Fold Nature Reserve. This captivating sanctuary offers a haven to an array of flora and fauna, providing an idyllic backdrop for leisurely walks and contemplation. Breathe in the fresh air as you meander through the winding trails, encountering a tapestry of native wildlife along the way.

Chadderton Town Hall

Discover the architectural marvel that is Chadderton Town Hall, an iconic structure perched at the heart of the town. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this stunning Victorian landmark, adorned with intricate stonework and towering spires. Take a moment to appreciate the ornate detailing before venturing inside to witness the town’s cultural events and exhibitions.

Must-See Places in Chadderton for Families

Chadderton Park

Embark on a family adventure at Chadderton Park, a sprawling green oasis that caters to visitors of all ages. Engage in friendly competitions on the vast sports fields, watch as your little ones delight in the playground’s whimsical features, or simply bask in the serenity of the park’s natural beauty. Picnic on the lush lawns and revel in the joyous moments that family bonding brings.

Play Oldham

Let your children’s imaginations run wild at Play Oldham, a vibrant indoor play area that guarantees hours of endless fun and excitement. Watch as their eyes light up when they encounter the multi-level play structures, ball pits, and thrilling slides. While your little ones explore this fantastical world, sit back and relax in the cozy seating area, knowing that they are safe and thoroughly entertained.

The Museum of Childhood

Step into a world of nostalgia and fascination at The Museum of Childhood, located within Chadderton’s charming borders. Delve into the enchanting history of toys and childhood pastimes, marveling at the meticulously curated collection that spans generations. From vintage dolls to retro video games, this captivating museum promises a journey of wonder for the whole family.

Escape Reality

For an immersive and pulse-pounding experience, take your family to Escape Reality, a real-life escape room adventure in Chadderton. Challenge your problem-solving skills as you work together to unravel complex puzzles and unlock the mysteries within each themed room. Prepare to be captivated as you and your family race against time, getting lost in the excitement and thrill of the game.

Things to Do in Chadderton for Couples

Lovebrew Cafe and Bar

Savor the perfect blend of romance and culinary delight at Lovebrew Cafe and Bar, a quaint and intimate setting that caters to couples seeking a memorable dining experience. Indulge in delectable dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a selection of handcrafted cocktails and fine wines. Allow the warm ambiance and attentive service to elevate your romantic rendezvous to new heights.

Chadderton Park Inn

Escape the mundane and retreat to the Chadderton Park Inn, a charming bed and breakfast nestled amidst the tranquility of the town. Immerse yourselves in the cozy and inviting atmosphere of this hidden gem, featuring elegantly appointed rooms and personalized service. Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast and embrace the serenity of your surroundings, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Chadderton Fold Cottage

For a romantic getaway that feels like stepping into a fairytale, Chadderton Fold Cottage is an idyllic retreat that promises seclusion and tranquility. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this enchanting cottage exudes charm and elegance. Cozy up by the fireplace, take leisurely strolls through the enchanting gardens, and revel in the magical ambiance that this hidden gem offers.

Hand in Hand Restaurant

Embark on a culinary journey for the senses at Hand in Hand Restaurant, a hidden culinary gem in Chadderton. This intimate dining establishment combines a cozy atmosphere with mouthwatering dishes that showcase local flavors and ingredients. From tantalizing appetizers to delectable mains and indulgent desserts, every bite will ignite a symphony of flavors that will leave you and your loved one mesmerized.

Conclusion

Chadderton, with its enigmatic charm and fascinating array of experiences, is a destination that promises to captivate the adventurous traveler. From its architectural marvels and lush green spaces to its mouthwatering culinary delights and enchanting hidden gems, this town offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the rich history, immersing yourself in nature, or simply seeking a romantic escape, Chadderton will leave you yearning for more.

Embark on your very own journey through the perplexing and bursty wonders of Chadderton, where the extraordinary awaits at every turn.

Unveil the enigmatic charm of Chadderton, UK: Discover the hidden gems, indulge in culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the captivating wonders of this extraordinary town.

  source https://excursionelixir.com/things-to-do-in-chadderton-uk-unveiling-the-enigmatic-charm/

[franklinbadge]

A Critic's Review of a Psych Ward

It was during my second stint in the behavioral health unit at Newport Hospital when I finally came to the conclusion that, possibly, episodes of psychosis might not be for me. The multiple bruises on my arms from what only could be graded as amateurish IV placements, and the remnants of adhesive from dozens of EKG leads were nowhere near the style of fashion found on the runways from Paris to Milan this season (or any). The bright yellow wristband alerting those in close proximity to my person that I am very likely to be a fall risk is something I may continue to accessorize with, however. An earnest warning to those around me of my clumsy nature, and also a statement piece that will add to any outfit a certain je ne sais quoi; If only it came in a Tiffany blue. The fare was adequately acceptable, if a bit predictable after a few days. The Michelin guide may miss it, for good enough reasons, the plating alone is more assembly line than artisan. But, as with most cuisine in need of a little something extra, it was nothing a little salt and pepper couldn't fix. The accommodations would be, at best, described as spartan. The long twin mattresses in each room covered in sheets with a thread count hovering somewhere in the double digits. The synthetic material were obviously chosen not for it's luxurious comfort, but for their protective properties against any accidents which may occur around those with impaired cognitive abilities. Entertainment offerings were mostly confined to dual television rooms in each of the main hallways.One is in a larger common area with plenty of less than comfortable seating options, and large windows overlooking the harbour with a view of one of the main thoroughfares of the city. The other, a much smaller room offering half of the number of equally ergonomically-lacking chairs, but often times a respite of solitude in the often well-populated unit. The view offered by the single window as the first light of dawn touches the many church spires and treetops as it makes it's way down to the gables of the houses making up the mostly residential neighbourhood of North Broadway is a life-affirming way to start the day. For the remainder of the daylight hours, however, the view of a liquor store parking lot and one of - if not the - least appetizing pizza establishments in the city is little to write home about. But being on the top floor of the highest structure in the city definitely has it's perks come the hours around sunset. The window at the end of the first main hallway has an unmatched view of the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge. From twilight up until the last light of dusk, the lucky few viewers who situate themselves in that alcove are treated to a slow burn of dazzling colour changes as the sun, clouds, ans atmosphere combine to put on a show with unparalleled uniqueness every time the last remains of the day fall below the horizon. The evening brings a sparkling display of lights on the bridge, with it a peak and slow wane in the ingress and egress of traffic between Newport and Jamestown. It is also around this time that the floor itself livens up, with visiting hours bringing smiles and hugs from outside these walls, breaking up the doldrums of the routine conversations and behaviors of the inhabitants of the unit, no matter how long or brief their stay. As the evening fades, some make their way to an early slumber, some continue the conversations of the day, and other look forward to a televised show or sporting event for the remainder of their night. The still of these late hours only broken up by regular safety and wellness checks by the nurses whose step counts easily reach twenty thousand in a shift. The quiet remains until the break of the next day's morning starts the going on with the floor all over again. I can only give my most highly esteemed rating and recommendation, because I am still here. And I am very glad to still be here. Thank you. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[ghostwise]

“Aeran,” he says with cloying sweetness, the kind of voice that makes him immediately suspicious of whatever follows. And rightly so; the next words out of his mouth are, “Do you want to get matching best friend tattoos with me?”

“What?” Aeran drops the lettuce he’d been examining. The woman at the stall grumbles at him, but he’s not really listening at this point.

“Tattoos,” Refugio says. He nods in the direction of a nearby stall, advertising cheap inking options for all interested. The proprietor—or so Aeran judges her by the sheer amount of tattoos she sports on her exposed skin—smiles invitingly.

More importantly, it’s the first time Refugio has called him his best friend.

Aeran squints at him in disbelief.

“Ah, no?” he replies finally.

“Rejected?” Refugio’s bronze eyes widen, impossibly puppy-like. “In front of everyone, Kellis?”

“In front of everyone…” the tattoo artist echoes, aghast.

“Gods,” Aeran says, already overwhelmed.

He is not particularly interested in getting some disease from a pop up street tattoo stall. He is still trying to wrap his mind around the other part. Best friends! After their turbulent adolescence, years spent either fighting or ignoring one another—best friends!

“Don’t worry your pretty little head about him,” the tattoo artist tells Refugio. “How about a discount?”

But they’ve been traveling together for half a year at this point, and Refugio is a far cry from the irritable boy he’d been at the Spire. He’s become someone different; kind, reliable, occasionally practical, always entertaining, and loyal. Best friends! It seems impossible, but somehow it’s true.

“I want a coyote skull on my hand,” Refugio says, dashing over to the stall. He points at the junction between his thumb and pointer finger, makes an odd motion with his thumb and grins. “Here, so I can make it bite.”

“A man of class and elegance,” the woman replies. “I can do this for you. Enter my humble abode.”

“See you in a couple of hours, man,” Refugio tells him with a cheery wave. “Don’t feel like you have to wait around. I’ll find you.”

Then he and the woman are gone, separated from the bustle of the market by rope and tarp.

Tol Covere is a different kind of bustle from what they're used to. The buildings are stark white against blue sky, carved from stone found only in this region—a tabula rasa adorned with fabrics and plants and signs and color. Where Sarin had offered them plenty of winding alleys and glimmering shadows to hide in—the architecture built to disperse heat, to protect against the desert climate—Tol Covere offers wide avenues, catching and embracing the blinding sunlight.

It might even suit them. Refugio seems to like the vibrant city. From their apartment they can smell the sea. And as there’s plenty to do on this street alone, a couple of hours should be easy to kill.

“Best friends!” Aeran sighs and shakes his head, feeling both fond and mildly annoyed, as if he’s been left out, as if he’s been given a gift he doesn’t know what to do with, though he had been the one to decline the invitation.

[writings-of-bored-gal]

Protection - Part 10

Jaime Lannister x Stark!Reader

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9

Part 10/?

Summary: Jaime and his wife make it to Sunspear, but what will be waiting there for them when they arrive?

Author’s Note: Hi everyone! so….it’s been a while. I never wanted to leave this fanfic unfinished and I promise I will eventually get to finishing it, I just needed to know where it was I wanted to go with it and in all honesty, the way the show ended kind of put me off thinking about that. I am going to give this another go though, and Protection will be finished one way or another (else it might haunt me for the rest of my days). I have also started writing more original content which can now be found on Dreame and the link is in my Masterlist! Thank you all for the continued support and I hope you’re all staying safe. Thanks for reading- Abby x

Protection Tags: @mikariell95, @evyiione, @sleepylunarwolf, @wnygirl2012, @purpose4fan-fiction, @mmmcchan, @lxdyred, @duvetsandpillows, @d34d-0n-th3-1ns1d3, @bshelley322

Masterlist | Buy me a coffee! 

_______________

Jaime wrapped the child in a blanket, clutching it tightly to shield it from the sand that whipped around them in the wind. It had cried, it had screeched as its mother fell to the ground, her arms unable to take the weight of the tiny being. 

She was now slumped over the front of Bronn’s horse, Bronn’s arms showing veins where the strain of holding her up was getting to him. It hadn’t been pretty, but she had done all she could and she had the child before fainting in exhaustion and dehydration. Jaime tried not to let his fear show, tried not to disturb the sleeping infant in his arms, but he couldn’t help but let it eat away inside of him. They had to reach the Martells before it was too late for her. Bronn had managed to bring a maester, who lingered behind them on his own horse. He seemed hesitant to help them until Jaime had explained that she was not of Lannister blood, but the daughter of Ned Stark. The argument had persuaded the master, but Jaime was not sure if it would sway the Martells to his cause. They would be happy to let her die even if it was just to spite him. 

Whilst the journey to the Martell’s residence was a short one, it felt longer than any of their time at sea. Jaime looked down at the child in his arms, a young boy. Cersei would be disgusted. A new Lannister heir. He didn’t really care what Cersei thought. The boy looked strong and healthy, despite the heat he did not seem bothered, his chest rising and falling in a soft rhythm of sleep. Jaime looked over to his wife, her eyes flitting open for a moment before closing once again. At least she was still alive. 

The edges of Sunspear became visible above the dunes. The tips of its golden spires were visible above the large walls that surrounded the building. There were guards at every entrance, all sporting the Martell crest of the spear bursting through the sun. Jaime thought back to Oberyn, the way he fought the Mountain with a spear and his courage. He had nothing but respect for the Martells, but he could not say they would feel the same way about him. 

The maester rode up to meet the level of Jaime and Bronn. He stepped down from his horse and went to check on Jaime’s dear wife, still slumped over Bronn’s horse and mumbling something Jaime could not hear. He attempted to give her some water, but she laughed, batting the vessel away in delirium. Jaime was no maester, but even he could see she was delirious. He felt panic rise inside of his, the child sensing it and fussing in his blankets. He watched as the maester stepped ahead to the two guards, murmuring something to them as they nodded, one turning and making his way into the walls of Sunspear as the maester returned to Jaime and Bronn. 

“They have asked that she enter Sunspear alone with the child,” the maester told Jaime. 

“You expect me to give my wife up to my family’s enemies so freely? No!” Jaime replied, his voice rising in anger. He would not leave her. She would not die alone. “Put me in chains for all I care, but I am following her in there-“

“Jaime,” Bronn’s voice, level and calm felt like a bucket over water, washing away his anger and bringing him back to the present, “you’re going to be no good to anyone in chains, mate. Let her go in.” 

Jaime wanted to take out his sword. He wanted to fight. That’s what he knew, what he had always known. That was where his strengths truly lay, but he also knew they would not serve him here. He was not here to fight the Martells. Whatever his intentions before, he was now there to beg for their help. 

“Take her,” he murmured, “and him…” Bronn’s eyebrows shot skyward. He had not known the child was a boy, and he understood the implications. His wife was taken on the horse whilst the maester took away his son, leaving Jaime and Bronn sitting uselessly with their arses in the sand as they leaned up agains the walls in the shade, waiting for word from the palace. 

After hours, the sun remained high in the sky, but the guards had changed. Bronn and Jaime had mainly been sitting in silence, Jaime staring into the distance, Bronn drawing crude shapes into the sand in some attempt to entertain himself until he could not hold onto his thoughts any longer. 

“So, a boy,” he said to Jaime, clicking his tongue in thought. Jaime scowled, but it did not deter him. “What’s going to happen when Cersei gets a word of this then?” 

Jaime sighed. “I’m trying not to think too hard about it. I’m more concerned whether they’re alive in there.” 

Bronn shrugged, “they’ll let you in eventually, just need to assess the threat first.” 

“There’s one of me and a thousand of them, how much of a threat can I be?” 

“Aye,” Bronn smirked, “but you’re the Kingslayer.”

___________________

She awoke as the sun was setting, her mouth dry and everything sore. A maester was stood aside from her, whispering to a tall, slender woman with a mouth that seemed it would permanently be turned downwards in a disapproving manner. Her hands fluttered to her belly, still swollen but empty now. She remembered the desert, she remembered the searing pain, but then she had no clue. Had her child survived?

She wanted to cry, but her eyes couldn’t sacrifice losing the little moisture they had. She shut her eyes. She had not seen Jaime, but she hoped his was not far from her. He had promised her protection, hadn’t he? But protection did not mean safety, not anymore. She’d seen her father protect her mother as best as he could, but neither of them had ever been safe, not when there were so many threats. 

“Lady Stark?” It was the tall woman. Her voice should have been comforting. She had always liked the lilt of the Dornish accent, but her name had come out as more of bark. All she could do in response was nod, her throat too dry to croak out some sort of response. She had not been a Stark for a long time, but the name was like a childhood blanket, and she clung to it for comfort. 

The woman came closer, holding up a flask so that she could take a drink, speaking to the girl who called herself Stark whilst she drank. 

“We did not think you would manage to wake up so quickly,” she told her, “you were on the edge of madness when my maester bought you to the doors of the palace.”

“The child?” She managed to choke.

“The child is safe and well. I’ve had someone nurse him, although I imagine he will need his mother soon.” She smiled kindly, but it did not reach her eyes. “Your husband is going to be a problem for us, though. He waits for now outside the walls but his patience will not last forever.” She examined the woman lying down, as if assessing if she was a threat despite the fact she could hardly move. “I think perhaps we could allow him inside with the necessary precautions, but you will stay here with us whilst he can take residency in a cell, I think.” 

Part of her wanted to protest, but she knew it would be useless. The best she could do for now was try and figure out what the Martells wanted from them. It was her turn to protect him. 

[mitchbeck]

GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS SIGN TYLER INAMOTO, NIKITA PAVLYCHEV

By; Mark Shelley, Greenville Swamp Rabbits GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Ontario Reign, American Hockey League affiliate of the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, announced today that the club has re-signed defensemen Tyler Inamoto and forward Nikita Pavlychev to one-year, two-way contracts. Inamoto, 24, returns to the Reign after spending 36 games with the Swamp Rabbits during the 2022-23 season. During his…

[duraxxor]

Balm - How easily does your muse socialize with others? How good are they at their social interactions?Balsamine - What is their level of patience, and how hard does one have to push to make your muse snap?Aconite - What are your muses thoughts on their own species in general? Do they believe in inherent goodness of them? Generally self-serving? Etc?

The two families look towards their chained up heart as if he would be better suited to provide the answer. Randdu only solidifying the fact by chittering his own little answer. “ What is with all of these voices and their prying questions lately? Have they no time to offer a fight for sport? “

Daev sighed, shaking his head as he frowned at his bat familiar. “ There’s more to life than fighting... and causing trouble... “ The extra addition to his words were directed towards the avian menace before casting his glassy eyes towards the curious souls. “ I can speak to anyone without a single issue. Do I choose to do so? Not really... but then again... I’m not exactly in the situation to socialize, now am I? “ Half naked and chained to a twisted, metallic spire along with his cohorts, he faintly smirked to the point that it was almost unreadable. “ Anger? Patience? “ He gestured to the thought as if it were a foreign concept before Randdu rudely interrupted.

“ Break these chains and we will show you how patient one can be! This is so boring! Why won’t they let me fight them? It’s so much more entertaining and the exquisite pain I can inflict! “ The bat seemed to have his feather ruffled, or leathery wings, rather. Bouncing back and forth as if desperate to leave the confines of these chains.

“ Ignore that one track mind rat with wingssss, he doesn’t underssssstand what true anger and patience really issss... “ Sphula’s tail curled inward before he lashed it outward and struck the bat up side the head before continuing his own addition. “ The most patient is alwayssss the wrath you must alwayssss be wary of. More times than naught, they harbor the most sssssadistic temperament. And I am one to carry a vasssst amount of patience. “

“ Yet irritate you to not end! “ Randdu quipped again before rolling into a fit of screeching laughter, similar to that of a hyena blended together with the octaves of a hawk. The bat familiar found himself wrapped by the tail before his attempts to snap his teeth at the scaly bastard were made as the two seemed to butt heads like siblings.

“ Both of you, please... stop this... “ Daev gave them both a look, trying to remain as patient before the two’s annoying bickering finally made his blank expression turn into a glare. “ I said... THAT’S ENOUGH! “ The raising of his voice resulted into the initial push of kinetic energy that severed the two from touching one another while making them clash against opposing sides of the imprisonment.

“ Woaaaah... how did you do that, Daev? “ Randdu, despite seeking knocked around, seemed utterly amazed that one of his counterparts had the power to push them by thought, while the serpent seemed to watch quietly, choosing to observe rather than speak.

Daev looked to the palms of his hands before he re-entered his train of thought. “ We’ll.. worry more about this later... there’s still another question placed on the table to answer.. “ The trio listened to the question carefully before Daev looked between the two creatures, all of them displaying expressions of confusion. “ I... know not if this question is directly to all three of us but... what can I really say about elves? The Sin’dorei? Quel’dorei?.. “

“... The San’layn? “ Randdu chimed in before he was shushed by both the elf and the snake.

“ We do not sssspeak of that kin, Randdu... bite your tongue! “ Sphula chastised his counterpart before allowing Daev to finish speaking.

Daev placed a hand over his forehead before he regained his thoughts, seeming easily distracted. “ Right. Well... the majority of elves in history are very prideful about their heritage and tend to isolate themselves more so from society unless it serves as a means to strengthen themselves. They have served the Alliance and the Horde as a faction, while also becoming their own network in the very beginning. Elves are very... evolutionary, so to speak... self-serving isn’t a bad way to describe it buuuuut... there are those who display selfless traits towards other races. It’s rather... convenient. A race bent on survival by whatever means possible. “

[ Thank you @jacobdcheshyre and @igniting-the-dawn who also asked Aconite and Balsamine ]

[gold-eyes-vengeful-heart]

Green vs Blue

((A duel with the Emerald Weapon.

Of course, contains Sorin ( @aetherstitch ) again. :3 Content warning for Runya being quite violent against other Weapons.))

===

The seas spooled out below and behind them, as Runya sent Blue skimming just over the wavetops towards Castrum Marinum.

“Hmmm.” He had been relishing the sensation of sheer power his own Weapon humming through the throttles and the controls in his hands and even through the seat he was firmly planted in...but the closer they got to the Castrum, the more concerned he got. He half-expected it to startle him like the Sapphire Weapon had, particularly if this one was indeed aquatic like the last was...

{Not there yet.} Whether Blue was talking about the Castrum or the Emerald Weapon, he wasn’t sure, but the distinction didn’t matter much. {Close. But not there.}

His sharp-eyed gaze caught the tips of the spires of Castrum Marinum, surely enough. “And you’re very right about that. But--”

{Aha.} The interruption splashed across all other thought, cutting him off. {There.}

And he suddenly pulled almost straight up, accelerating with a roar of thrusters as their emerald enemy rose from the sea below them with a hissing rush of seawater.

“I’ve been expecting you, IXth Legion’s pet!”

Runya was, for the moment, incredibly tempted to simply whip Blue around, shoot the damned thing, and be done with it. Yes, this one was supposedly more finished than the last and might very well stonewall him, but he was always quite willing to take advantage of someone’s monologuing to stab them in the back. Or the face, as it were. Yet...

(”I don’t understand what drives them. Why they can’t do the same thing you did. If they’re really in too deep with the Empire or if this is all a part of some plan.”)

Sorin had had a point, in the brief discussion they had before taking off to their respective Castrums. And now that the possibility had taken root in Runya’s mind, he was, for once, willing to go against his better judgement and indulge the boy.

He clicked open his own communications--his ears set right back when Baelsar’s face filled the far corner-screen, but the closer one filled with the Au Ra boy’s that he had been expecting. And Runya just smiled, giving him a cheeky wave. “Well, good afternoon to you. Though I’m afraid it’s ex-IXth Legion’s pet these days.”

“Yeah, we knew that already.” The Au Ra’s eyes narrowed. “But it doesn’t matter, does it?”

Runya shrugged one shoulder. “It doesn’t, you’re quite right. Unless your goal,” he added thoughtfully, “was to just finish taking out the IXth’s main Weapon for the sake of whoever your masters are now. Civil war and all.”

The Au Ra chuffed, smirking. “Well, cat, you have that one all wrong.”

Runya’s smile sent the smirk right back off the other man’s face. (The insult had barely even registered.) “Oh? Do I? Come now, it’s only sporting to spout off our master plans before a grueling duel. Or during it, as the case may be--”

He suddenly shot right at the hovering Emerald Weapon’s torso, the aether beam hissing viciously through the air...and through more air as the Weapon split in two, letting the attack pass harmlessly by before the halves casually reattached to one another.

“I’m here to stop you, and to stop Father with the power we wield, nothing else!” The Au Ra boy apparently wasn’t going to fall for it, and so Runya internally discarded the possibility of picking his brains in favor of falling into his own bloodlust with a deep and unpleasant chuckle. He said but one thing before closing communications entirely.

“If you insist.”

A nasty trick, that separation, but Runya had seen it and so when the boy tried it again, he made a beeline for the top half, Blue’s heavy jaws closing on the thing’s head with a rending screech of metal on metal. The momentum carried them into the ocean, but the booming splash did little to disentangle them and Blue crunched down even harder on the Emerald Weapon’s armor, crushing it bit by bit...

And then he got shot, from multiple directions, from strange little floating hand-constructs that Runya had, frankly, failed to notice, as had Blue.

And the reptilian Weapon yelped in Runya’s mind, the pain jabbing both of them in the ribs and making them let go. Despite the opportunity, however, Runya and Blue made no move to go to the surface; in the water, they were just as dangerous if not more, and Blue twisted back on himself and arced at ramming speed into the other Weapon. The hands of course shot again but this time Blue twisted to catch the worst of it on his thicker armor, and he ripped strips of green off of the Emerald Weapon in this close proximity--

Yes, yes. Runya wanted to not just kill it. Runya wanted to rip it apart. It was the only message these children would understand, written in a language of violence.

The Emerald Weapon quickly rose, though, soaring up out of the water, and Blue rushed after it and burst through the surface and his jaws closed on one of his foe’s massive pauldrons, rending it to uselessness. Before he could really do much about the pilot, however, he was thrown back and the Emerald Weapon glowed...

“Ah, I should have assumed he would do that nonsense. Just like the others.” Runya clicked his tongue, his body aching from the twisting and turning and speed, but still all but vibrating in anticipation (and with the rush of sheer power that Blue gave him--it exceeded anything this half-broken form was capable of and of course he could practically get drunk on it). “Oversoul, I take it. I wonder who--”

The gleaming golden form that appeared, hologram-like, in front of the Emerald Weapon, quickly answered that question. And Runya actually cackled, the noise half-mad in the confined space of the cockpit (in a way that left Blue slightly taken aback, his thoughts receding slightly from Runya’s). “Oh, you brought me a present? You shouldn’t have, boy!”

Gaius himself. He had realized full well that they had his data, more likely than not, but to have the Weapon bearing it coming to him so soon? He would almost wonder if it was fate, if he believed in such things. As it was, the sight did little to abate the urge to really push Blue to his limits, to really show them what destruction they were both capable of--

Even as their surroundings warped and shimmered and turned into a literal battlefield--complete with burning homes and shattered landscape--Runya dug deep in a way he hadn’t with the Sapphire Weapon and when his mind resurfaced and his eyes snapped back open, they glimmered molten gold that flowed through the aetherial markings etched into his flesh, sending a surge of aether (Blue’s aether) through his whole form. He felt every breath, every rush of air past Blue as if it was his, and when they flew at screaming speed at their now-multi-bladed opponent, all Runya could do was laugh in a way a bit too close to madness.

“Come, come, show me what the VIIth’s vaunted Weapons are really capable of!” he snarled, and though the Emerald Weapon tried to dodge, Blue twisted in the same direction and slammed it, raising his head and snapping one of the golden blades right out of the air--crushing it with a single flex of his jaws. “Pathetic! Just like your father, pathetic!” 

The Black Wolf’s gleaming form reappeared, darting from the top of the Emerald Weapon’s head and swinging the aetherial gunblade right for Blue’s eyes, but it wasn’t enough and Blue, too, snapped that construct to pieces and then seized the Wolf’s construct itself, jaws closing like a steel trap on its torso. Of course it struggled and Runya felt it between his teeth like a wriggling fish but he just clenched his jaw tighter and thrashed his head, Blue thrashing the golden form in time and with the same savage ferocity. Once, twice, thrice.

(Let the real Gaius watch. Let the real Gaius feel full well the fear that Blue and his pilot’s presence should inspire.)

“Don’t try to get Daddy to save you,” he chuckled, baring his Miqo’te fangs as the construct finally died and Blue turned his attention to another of those damnable arms attempting to carve pieces out of them both. “You and your siblings wanted to face me, so face me!”

He crushed one arm and his tail-claws caught another; a third met its end under one heavy-clawed footpaw. 

“Show me what you’re really made of!”

One of the floating blades scythed down at his neck but Blue just pulled the protective scales in close and twisted again, the edge screeching down the metal and embedding into the earth instead.

“Is this really all you have, boy?!”

He almost thought--or maybe just hopefully fancied--that he saw fear on the Emerald Weapon’s metal countenance right before Blue caught the final blade with his tail and then crashed his jaws shut over the enemy machine’s head.

“Is this the vaunted VIIth Legion’s third Weapon?!”

Of course, the Emerald Weapon fought back; it did its level best to pry Blue off while slamming shot after shot into Blue’s chest, but Blue just growled and grappled with his foreclaws with the cannon. Or cannons, plural, but either way, the sharp things carved into metal and machinery and rendered them useless. Now, Blue brought his heavier hind-claws into play, kicking and reaving into the other Weapon while it struggled in vain to get out of his grasp.

As entertaining as it was to grind that maggot to paste in his jaws, however, Runya wasn’t going to wait on the metaphorical mouse he was playing with to bite him again. And so something deep in Blue’s throat started to glow, shimmering out between the heavy scale-like plates protecting it.

“I find you and your family...lacking.”

The glow intensified, brilliant blue and vicious, and with a single thought from Runya, it shaped itself into a beam and shot through the Emerald Weapon from crown to base with a rending crack of air and overheated metal.

Finally, it stopped moving. It even stopped hovering, collapsing in on itself, the illusion dissipating just in time for the shallows of the sea below to swallow it whole.

Blue roared in defiance, and though the battle-high and the Resonance high had receded and left him shivering for an entirely different reason now...Runya smiled, and laughed right along with him.

He had taken care of the IXth Legion’s leader and his hateful daughters, but that would never be enough. He would start with the VIIth...and keep going until the Empire had been eradicated, root and branch and rotten fruit. 

All of them would burn. But the VIIth Legion’s Weapons and its pilots would be first.

[sepublic]

Coliseum Atero

          One of the most important structures in all of Xia, this giant arena is the largest in all of Xia and serves as a uniting point for the island, located at the center and meeting point of all six districts.

           Said to have been around since the very beginning of Xia’s industrial age, the Coliseum Atero is a massive, metallic stadium lined with massive spires that curve into the air, as well as a giant tower in the very middle of the arena. The arena floor is comprised of countless, hexagonal pillars made of protodermis that can rise up or sink down, in order to change the environment for various purposes.

           Functioning almost as a capital for Xia, the Coliseum Atero is where the most prestigious nobles, aristocrats, and members of the Powers That Be gather for parties, events, and tournaments. The most auspicious and grand of ceremonies and events are held here, with audience members watching from the stands. Massive speakers and screens transmit audio and videos, helping to show messages from broadcasters and display what is going on in the arena floor below.

           The Coliseum Atero was initially built to honor the system of gladiator fighting, as well as the title of Glatorian, with a statue of the hero Certavus set up in front of its entrance. Here, the most prized and famous Glatorian champions duel, occasionally to the death, as spectators watch. It is a luxury stadium, with tickets and seats generally being the most expensive in all of Xia, and the Coliseum Atero is intended for use mainly by the Xian elite; Although certain, select occasions will allow the commoners to attend as well. Special, cut-off areas and boxes amongst the seats are set up, with clear windows to divide the elite from the common-folk as they enjoy pristine air-conditioning and are attended to by servants, with plush luxury seats to rest upon.

           Unsurprisingly, the perimeter has multiple guards of mechanical and living origin, as well as a couple of Exo-Toa. There are six main entrances, one pointed in the direction of each district; Certavus’ statue is located in front of the Zakaz entrance. Lines to go inside of the Coliseum Atero can be incredibly long, with most nobles ordering privileged seats in advance while regular Xians have to buy tickets up-front. Ticket prices are usually high, but if the Powers That Be intend for an event to be seen by many, they will be lowered.

           There are also additional entrances, for fighters, workers, performers, and other staff to enter the Coliseum Atero through. Once inside the walls, there are many rooms to filter out and send audience members to the stands. Multiple shops selling food and souvenirs can be found, acting as a small mall. The backstage areas are of course cut off, and the clean, dark hallways of the Coliseum are regularly cleaned and kept polish. The Coliseum Atero is meant for the elite and the champions, and so its appearance must reflect this.

           Multiple events are held within the Coliseum Atero. There are gladiator matches, with Glatorian fighters prepped backstage before entering to the cheers of thousands. Some fights are battle royales, others are duels; And others can include beasts and bioweapons, to liven things up as a hazard. There are control panels that workers can operate to direct the formation of pillars; They can rise up to form a wall, provide places to climb up, hinder fighters, and so forth. Pillars can be lowered to reveal pitfalls, or else serve as entrances for other fighters and beasts to be lifted into the arena through.

           These protodermis pillars can also perform a ‘Sea of Protodermis’ formation, where rows rise up and retract, one after the other to create a brutal ‘wave’ in the arena floor. Again, this is all for the sake of creating challenges as fighters compete for victory, while athletes show off their physical prowess in tournaments. Akilini competitions are held amongst raised-pillars, high above the ground. The flexibility of the protodermis pillars allows for just about any event, and they can form walls around fighters and beasts to keep them contained should an event end.

           Beneath the arena and its walls, hordes of equipment, as well as barracks and stations for guards and Vahki units, are held. Here, pipes hold hazards such as poisonous gases or water to flood the arena, and Trydahk Pods contain any manner of surprises. Cages hold beasts of combat, as well as the occasional bioweapon designed by the Nynrah Ghosts.

           Only the most esteemed Glatorian are allowed to compete in the Coliseum Atero, in front of Xia’s most prestigious upper-class, and even the Powers That Be. They will go through a wide variety of challenges, both for entertainment and to show just how skilled they truly are. Tournaments and gauntlets are held for gladiatorial matches, as well as for sports events involving athletes. Island Cups are almost always held in the Coliseum Atero, and it continues to be a popular tourist site of attraction. Famous celebrities and characters have regularly posed in front of the Coliseum Atero, or even performed in it, such as Kratakal himself! Performances and shows are also common here, with the pillars helping to enhance the experience.

           For particularly chaotic matches, a dome-shaped, clear force-field will be generated to protect the audience from any rogue dangers. Otherwise, they are totally safe as they cheer on contestants or performers, or even boo and jeer at them, sometimes throwing food and trash at ‘losers’. If a loser is not slain, the area they are on will be lowered symbolically, while victors are raised high above all others in glory.

           Accessible from beneath the arena is the Coliseum Atero’s central tower, a massive spire that is visible and prominent amongst Xia’s skyline alongside the stadium itself. The tallest structure in all of Xia, in terms of height this tower is rivalled only by The Mountain itself. Here, only the Powers That Be, alongside select esteemed guests, can visit and access the rooms in this tower. Some contain control-panels and security rooms, while many other chambers are for partying and include pools, bars, massage-areas, and so forth. Luxurious bedrooms are available for invited guests, while only the most loyal and proven of servants are allowed to work here.

           Within the tower, beautiful parties of the highest degree are held, reserved only for the elite of the elite. Here, it is said that one can see the most powerful and mysterious of the Powers That Be, and even interact with them; But from a distance, of course. Very few know what is exactly at the top of the Coliseum’s tower, but supposedly it contains the personal living quarters for the highest Powers That Be, who regularly hold and attend meetings here, discuss stocks, and make other plans as they survey all of Xia from one-way windows. Rumors and outlandish stories of what goes up there are inevitable, and some describe the tower’s peak as the closest point in Xia to heaven itself. To be invited to perform services in the tower is one of the greatest honors in all of life.

           On the outside of the tower is an elevator-platform, from which the Powers That Be can personally watch events, make announcements, and hold the occasional party. This massive platform can climb all the way up to the very top of the tower, and each ‘stop’ connects it to one of the floors on the tower. This platform is also granted an invisible force-field to protect those inside, and supposedly, the Powers That Be will hold some of the finest celebrations in Xian history on this platform, as it is raised to the highest possible setting near the skies. They say at the top of the tower, one can pass their fingers and almost grace the sky itself…

           The Coliseum Atero is joinly-owned by the Powers That Be, but its most powerful members possess the most control. It is not uncommon to see the likes of Turaga Dume give out fanatical speeches of propaganda to the Xian populace, while others narrate and enjoy from afar the brutality in the arena below. Athletes are subject to a wide variety of increasing challenges, while Glatorian are sometimes subject to an endless gauntlet of animals, bioweapons, and lesser fighters to take down and defeat. The cheers are loud and rampant amongst the rafters, and everytime a major victory is held, it is not uncommon for gold flakes to be pumped out of machines and shower the champions. There are also public executions, alas, and in such situations the common Xian will be allowed to enter for free just to watch.

[mitchbeck]

TATE SINGLETON ASSIGNED TO SWAMP RABBITS

The Second year forward split time between the AHL’s Toronto Marlies and Newfoundland Growlers in 23/24 By: Mark Binetti, Greenville Swamp Rabbits (GREENVILLE, S.C.) – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, announced today via a Swamp Rabbit Moving Transaction that second-year forward Tate Singleton has been assigned to the Swamp Rabbits from the team’s AHL affiliate, the Ontario Reign. Singleton comes to the Swamp Rabbits seeking his first action of the new hockey season. The 5’9”, 180-pound played most of the 2023-24 season with the Newfoundland Growlers, earning 25 goals, 23 assists, and 48 points in 59 games. Singleton made a dozen appearances in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies, notching a goal and five helpers. A native of West Lebanon, New Hampshire, Singleton, 26, turned professional last season following the conclusion of his NCAA college hockey career with The Ohio State University, compiling 70 points (33g-37ast) in 140 games as a Buckeye. The Swamp Rabbits now look to this Friday, October 25th, for their first showdown against the South Carolina Stingrays as part of a "home-and-home" series. Puck drop for "Project Search Night", presented by Bon Secours, is slated for 7:05 p.m. EST at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. About the Greenville Swamp Rabbits … Acquired by Spire Sports + Entertainment (SS+E) in 2020, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team has been providing family-friendly, live entertainment at Bon Secours Wellness Arena since 2010. Formerly, the Greenville Road Warriors and the Swamp Rabbits are the highest-level professional minor league franchise in South Carolina. The Swamp Rabbits are the proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL's LA Kings and the AHL's Ontario Reign. Greenville is an ECHL Premier ‘AA’ Hockey League member. GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS HOWLINGS Read the full article

[isolaradiale]

Glass shattering. Metal twisting. Screams lost in the depths of violent explosions.

Anger. Panic. Fear. Hope. Despair.

Desperation.

Looking out over Golden Ward, it was a perfect den of chaos. All throughout the night, the citizens that had been caught in the game and those that ran into the Ward looking to play the white knight had been fighting for their very lives. Bonds had been tested and broken. Lives had been saved and lost.

From K’horii’s perspective, it was a wonderful rendition of the entire human experience compacted into span of a single night---and it was thoroughly entertaining.

Though, in all fairness, he’d set his expectations of his players rather low. Since they had all come into being on this island, there was little the residents of Spirale had done that had impressed him. Perhaps it was in part because he refused to be impressed by creatures so far beneath him. Perhaps there was more to it than that. If there was, he would refuse to admit it, even to himself. Knowledge, once conceived, always had a way of falling into the hands of others. Once it did, people would then act on that knowledge.

It was far preferable to keep the answer maddeningly out of his own reach so that he might pass that madness on to others. The madness of desire was just as much a part of him as every other madness in the world. It only stood to reason for him to add to it any way he could.

But as much as he enjoyed his little spectacle, he knew there were others who didn’t share in his appreciation. Ominous clouds tinged with aetherial lightning were starting to circle overhead. The speed at which they gathered made the mad god’s ears twitch.

“Well. Someone woke up on the wrong side of the mammatus, it seems,” he muttered.

Quickly, he bounded along the sides of the Dome until he reached its peak. His eyes took on a preternatural glow of red and a yowl echoed across the city. As it rang through the streets, every balloon that had been tormenting the populace throughout the night popped into nothing, only shreds of rubber signifying they had ever been there at all.

Screens across the city flickered to life again, but when K’horii appeared before them, he was simply his normal feline self---three eyes glittering with far too much intelligence aside, he was a far cry from the monster the city had seen before.

“My players, it would seem we have reached the end of our game. It was a lovely display of chaos and savagery, far better than I had hoped! Those of you still alive should give yourselves a pat on the back. I’m certain there’s a disembodied arm or two lying around to help.

“Ah, but I’m certain you’re all wondering about the winners and losers in my little contest! Well, simply put, there are none! And there were never to be any to begin with. Smoke and mirrors, my players, that’s what it all amounts to. Oh, and a bit of help from Dave. Wave to everyone, Dave.”

The seemingly poor soul that had been transformed before people’s eyes only hours before appeared on the screen and gave an awkward wave, perfectly normal except for the claw marks where his shirt had been torn upon being picked up.

“He’s a great sport, really,” K’horii said candidly. “He told me that shirt was his favorite.”

“At any rate! You mortals have alleviated my boredom for a time, so I shall accept the offering of this bloody little play and take my leave. You are free to heap praise upon me for assisting you in determining your true friendships and adversaries, just as you are free to hate me and drive yourself mad at the thought that you can never be rid of me. In fact, I quite encourage the latter. It’s all the more reason to go even more over the top next time. Ta!”

The screens winked out, leaving a myriad of emotions left swirling in the streets of Golden. K’horii would have been of a mind to watch all of them play out as well, but he was too busy craning his neck to look to the skies.

“There, you see? No reason for you to rouse yourself at all. It really was a jo---”

A peal of lightning cut through the clouds and struck the spire where K’horii stood, barely missing hitting the cat straight on, but still sending a fair jolt through him and singing his eyes. Yowling and hissing, he jumped from the building and took to the streets, somehow missing the skeins of electricity that now flowed along the ground before he disappeared in the darkness.

But he wasn’t the only one trying to dodge the volts as they traveled through the Wards. Many who were left dumbstruck by his words now ran for their lives from the energy, but those who stood still came to see that though it pierced them, it did them no harm. Instead, it simply felt like a warmth that was almost comforting and familiar. To those who had fallen in the game, though, it was a powerful shock, one that brought them back from the brink and left them hale and whole of body, as though nothing had happened to them.

As quickly as the lightning had descended, it was gone. The clouds cleared the skies and pale moonlight cast a wan light over the remnants of the night’s chaos.

To those who’d lived and those who died and came back, it was a scene---and a god---they’d not soon forget.

Thanks for participating in our April Fool’s Day-inspired event! We hope you had a lot of fun with it.

There won’t be any Galaxy-issued rewards with this event, however, for those characters that did participate in the game and ended with a positive amount of points, an equal amount of Dust (not Stars) will be in your Spirale bank account! 

It’s a consolation prize, but it’s better than nothing, right? All you had to do was nearly die for it!

(In all honesty, thanks for taking part. We hope you enjoyed the event and the new bit of lore that came along with it.)

-- The Island Stars

[zurichtooslo]

Day 42, 1st Oct, Zagreb

Another bus trip, this one a bit longer, took me across country to Zagreb which is the capital of Croatia. Croatia has a population of about four million and one million live in Zagreb. It’s a really lovely city and the drive here was through green countryside, interspersed by small villages and a couple of bigger towns. The ride was comfortable and very easy travelling on the multiple buses they have here. I was staying in a studio apartment, which was great, right in the centre of the city so once I worked out how to get in I was set to go out exploring. Every street seems to have outdoor seating. I suppose some are tourists seeing Tourism is Croatia’s biggest industry but a lot of locals also seem to spend a lot of time sitting in cafes.

This was the main square where all the action is and the trams run through. I caught a tram from the bus station to here and my apartment was about 50 metres off this square.

Also in the square Slovenia had a promotion of their goods and music was playing, as well. 

Up on the hill are the remains of part of the old city wall and that surrounds the Cathedral.

The Main Cathedral. Absolutely clear blue skies. It was warmish today.

After pottering around for awhile I joined a ‘free’ walking tour which started at the statue of Ban Josip Jelačić who is a revered leader of Croatia who fought for Croatia’s rights against the Austrian Hungarian Empire. The statue was placed in the square in 1866 but removed by the Communists in 1947 but after a public petition in 1990 it was replaced.

The guide was full of information about the city and explained that originally there were two hills each with its own settlement but only separated by a valley with a river but in viewing distance of each other. One hill was where the Cathedral, and other church buildings were located. The other hill had tradesmen or commoners. The gate to the commoners hilltown.

The gate and surrounding buildings were once made of timber and a big fire which were common destroyed the gate building. In the ashes they found an undamaged painting of the Modonna and child. They built a chapel placing the painting inside.

Many people come and pray to the Modonna for help and the plaques you see on the wall are thank you messages.

St Mark’s church on top of this hill and on an important square nowadays.

The symbols on the church all have a meaning. The red chequerboard on one is a symbol that is still used in Croatia today and on sports clothing. Eg. when Croatia won the World Cup in soccer.

The President of Croatia’s house is on one side of the square. This was bombed in 1991. It was a planned attack designed to kill Croatia’s president. The bombing was very specific to the dining room at a time when the president was supposed to be entertaining a guest. Fortunately, the guest didn’t like the desert so they left the room a few minutes earlier than planned and escaped the bomb by minutes. No one was injured.

The Parliament House is on the other side of the square.

The Cathedral on the other hill

This blue dolphin was painted by a French artist who is considered on of the top in the world. It became a symbol of Zagreb. However, the building it was on started to deteriorate so the city put up the scaffolding about two years ago to repair the building. Nothing has happened since.

Another interesting piece of street art below the wall.

Church spire in the late afternoon sun. We were walking from one hill now to the other hill.

A street full of restaurants and also where the river once flowed.

A bit cool for Aperols at night now so had a hot chocolate instead. The spoon could have almost stood up in the cup.

From my apartment I heard a drum beat so looked out my window and below a group of black gowned red hatted men were walking past. Not sure of the significance.