#Stand-up pouch filling machine

[yscpackagingmachine]

Top 5 Reasons To Choose A  Premade Pouch Machine

In the state-of-the-art competitive packaging landscape, agencies are constantly looking for innovative answers that beautify product presentation, enhance performance, and ultimately, pressure sales. Premade pouch machines have emerged as a recreation-changer, supplying a large number of benefits that conventional packaging techniques absolutely can not match.

[fenbopackaging1]

Fenbo Packaging: Efficient Stand-Up Pouch Filling Machines

Explore Fenbo Packaging's range of efficient stand-up pouch filling machines. Our specialized equipment offers precision and reliability in filling stand-up pouches, catering to various product packaging needs. Trust Fenbo for top-quality filling machines designed to optimize your packaging processes with efficiency and consistency.

[suntermachinery]

Stand-up pouch liquid filling machine is composed of automatic bag feeding system, quantitative filling system, cleaning and capping system, etc. It can accurately measure and fill, and is easy to operate. It is suitable for the packaging of various vegetable protein beverages, fruit juices, soy sauce, vinegar and other liquid foods. Web: https://www.suntermachinery.com/ E-mail: info@suntermachinery.com Tel / Whatsapp: +86-13806163230

[guangdongyuesen]

Doy Pack Machine: Streamlining Packaging Processes with Efficiency

Explore the innovation and efficiency of doy pack machines in the packaging industry. Learn how these advanced packaging machines enhance productivity, ensure product freshness, and provide versatile packaging solutions for various industries. Discover the key features and benefits that make doy pack machines a preferred choice for modern packaging needs.

[theink-stainedfolk]

The Fox and The Flam

---

The sun was setting behind the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the neighborhood. A quiet evening, except for the usual chatter of the local market and the faint hum of music drifting from the corner store. It was a good day to blend in—something Jinx had mastered after years of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. He wasn't famous, but his name was whispered in the right places. The streets knew him, and he knew the streets.

He was out on one of his regular rounds, weaving through the alleys when a figure caught his eye. A tall man, dressed in a crisp coat, standing at the edge of the market square, looking like he didn’t quite belong here. His posture was too stiff, his gaze too focused, scanning the surroundings in a way that screamed “outsider.”

Jinx narrowed his eyes, instinctively sizing him up. The stranger didn’t look dangerous, but there was something about the way he held himself. Confident. Sure. As though he’d stepped out of a place where people didn’t question authority, didn’t wonder why the world was the way it was. Someone who thought rules applied to everyone but him.

“New face around here,” Jinx muttered to himself, adjusting the small pouch on his belt. The neighborhood had its share of newcomers, usually people who thought they could fix the poverty or clean up the streets, but Jinx didn’t trust them. Most of them were just another part of the machine, another cog pretending to care about the people they were stepping over.

Still, curiosity got the better of him. With a casual, practiced swagger, Jinx made his way over to the stranger. He had a way of moving that made people notice him—without making it obvious. No one questioned a smile, after all. And everyone loved food.

“Hey there!” Jinx greeted, flashing a wide grin as he approached. He’d already spotted a small vendor nearby, the sweet smell of fresh dumplings filling the air. It was a favorite spot of his—one of the few places where people still sold things that were real, not made for tourists.

“Got any interest in trying some homemade dumplings?” Jinx continued, his tone light and friendly, like he was offering a gift instead of a simple snack. “My treat. I make sure they’re worth the coin.”

The man looked down at him, his sharp gaze flicking over Jinx with a certain calculating interest. The silence between them stretched for a moment before August replied, his voice steady but carrying a subtle curiosity.

“Homemade, you say?” August’s lips quirked slightly, as though amused. “I haven’t heard of you before. You’re not from around here?”

Jinx grinned. “I’ve been around. You’re new though. Not from here, I mean.” He gestured vaguely around them, at the haphazard shops, the lively crowd, and the occasional cat darting between the stalls. “What brings you to the charming little chaos we’ve got going?”

August chuckled, his eyes lingering on Jinx’s face a moment longer than necessary. “Just trying to settle in the neighborhood. I’ve heard things about this place. Figured I’d see for myself.”

Jinx arched an eyebrow. “Settle in? You?” He nodded toward August’s immaculate coat, which stood out sharply against the more worn, patched clothing of the neighborhood. “You’re really going to settle around here like that?”

August glanced down at himself and then back at Jinx, his expression unreadable for a moment before he spoke again. “Well, I know what you are thinking based off of my clothes. But i really am thinking of moving here. I think it’s possible to settle down here.”

Jinx laughed, a short, sharp sound. “A lot of people around here have tried that, and they’re usually long gone by now. And if you want to help, you’ll need more than just good intentions.” He paused, looking August up and down, his gaze narrowing as he tried to read the man. There was something too perfect about him, too polished for a place like this. “What’s your name?”

“August,” the man replied smoothly, offering a polite smile. “And you are?”

“Jinx,” he said without missing a beat. He wasn’t one to give out his real name often, but this felt... different. It was one of those moments, like when you meet someone and there’s a tiny spark of something, whether good or bad. You’re not sure yet, but it’s there.

August’s brow furrowed slightly, as if considering something. “Jinx?” he repeated, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “That’s a... unique name.”

Jinx froze, his smile faltering for a second. “Hmm, you have a weird name too... But it’s cute.” The words came out so casually, so dismissively, that it was like a slap in the face.

A rush of irritation flared in Jinx’s chest. “What did you say?”

“Nothing,” August replied, unfazed, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Just that it’s an... interesting name.”

Jinx’s teeth gritted. He hated it when people tried to comment on things they didn’t understand. His name wasn’t a joke, damn it. It wasn’t something he chose, it was part of who he was. And no one—especially not this pretentious stranger—was going to make light of it.

“Cute, huh?” Jinx muttered under his breath, glaring at August. “Well, I’ll make sure to change it next time I’m making a joke out of it.”

August seemed to take it all in stride, though. “You don’t seem to take compliments very well.” He shrugged, his expression still composed. “But you’re an interesting guy, Jinx. I’ll give you that.”

Jinx didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he handed August the small basket of dumplings, the steam still rising from the warm, savory treats. “I’d advise you to get used to the neighborhood,” he said, his tone much less hostile now, though the bite was still there. “It’s full of people who don’t need fixing. And a lot of them don’t appreciate being treated like projects.”

August took the dumplings with a gracious nod, a hint of a smile on his lips. “I’ll try not to make that mistake.”

“Good,” Jinx said flatly. “Just don’t think you can come in here and fix things without knowing what you’re dealing with. People around here are cleverer than you think.”

August studied him for a long moment, his gaze intense. “You seem to know a lot about this place, Jinx. Maybe... I’ll take you up on your offer to show me around?”

Jinx’s lips quirked into a half-smile, one that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I don’t usually go showing strangers around. But, hey, I’ve got a feeling you’ll be around here long enough to learn things yourself.”

“Is that so?” August asked, his voice almost playful now. “And what makes you think I’ll be sticking around for very long?”

Jinx shrugged, the tension easing slightly. “Everyone does. They just don’t know when to leave.”

And with that, he turned to walk away, his mind already racing. There was something about this man—August—that didn’t sit right with him. But for now, Jinx could play it cool.

---

My ♡s: @paeliae-occasionally @willtheweaver @drchenquill @wyked-ao3 @the-inkwell-variable @corinneglass @seastarblue @frostedlemonwriter

[cozzzynook]

Autobots kidnap Ratbat. Hot Rod takes care of him. Soundwave attacks the base.

The autobots who kidnap fresh sparkling Ratbat are found so quick its not even funny.

Soundwave infiltrates their base and doesn’t even trip a single wire nor trap.

He finds the leftover energy field of the two mechs who took his sparkling and he painfully offlines them before going off to find a clue on where he could be.

He’s thankful for his outlier abilities on reading bots processors.

Many talk of a mech named Hot rod caring for a new bitty that was found by the two bots he murdered was spreading like wild fire amongst the autobots on base.

Every mech and femme alike wanted to get a good up close look at the mech he remembers from the fall of Nyon named Hot rod who held a tiny, weak bitty in his arms at all times.

Talks of the mech being stalked and ambushed while trying to care for his small, defenseless sparkling enraged him and he found himself rushing to get to this Hot rod and his bitty.

Ratbat wasn’t like his other cassettes, they were emerged during a time sparkling energon was in supply. Now all that was left of the sparkling energon was poisoned and being worked on as the only territory between con and autobot as a neutral ground on Cybertron. Their scientists worked on their respective sides to find ways to purify the poisoned fuel but no such luck as of yet.

Meaning his sparkling was extremely hungry most days because he didn’t have the proper fuel to give a sparkling and the syphoning machines they did have to try making it safe for Ratbat was still very low quality.

So Soundwave was extremely pissed that his youngest and most vulnerable cassette was taken when he was away on a mission. Those autobot scum snuck onto base and infiltrated rooms taking whatever information of value they had and when they could find none because Soundwave made sure their tracks were covered, they took his sparkling as a hostage.

What a foolish mistake to have made.

Soundwave followed the direction of the mechs going to Hot rods home.

Such disgusting and filthy mechs running amok the autobot ranks.

Sneaking like peeping pervs to watch a mech try and care for a sparkling thats vulnerable makes him sick. And knowing that sparkling was his own and in danger at the servos of mechs like these and possibly in danger by Hot rods servo, made him snap.

The first mech he disposes of gets their helm crushed. The second gets their windpipe ripped out and the third he throws a knife through before yanking his processor out.

He stalks towards Hot rods front door and smashes it open with his pede, barging inside the home with energon on his servo and with bits splattered on his chassis and across mask.

He hears the heavy gasp and feels the panicked em fields coming from the back where he storms to.

He manages to force the door open to reveal a berth room thats filled with the scent and energy fields of his Ratbat and the autobot Hot rod.

In a blind rage he reaches his servo out to grab his sparkling when his arm is almost cut off completely if it weren’t for him moving back in time.

He’s snapped from his sires protective rage to see the mech called Hot rod with his chassis removed, pouches laid bare with one of his nozzles fueling his sparkling that grips onto him with a fearful expression and upset at being startled, scrunching his tiny face as little optics shut tight. While Hot rod holds his sparkling to his nozzle and spark, with his flaws drawn out and a vicious hiss ripping through his windpipe as he bares his fangs preparing to maul and protect the vulnerable sparkling his spark has claimed as his own.

He stands there, deep gashes on his arm, leaking energon, shocked out of his processor that the autobot wasn’t hurting his sparkling or in on the plan.

In fact, Soundwave is now wondering just what happened for the mech to end up with his sparkling and how a carrier survived, “the great search,” that supposedly wiped them out.

He felt his spark tighten.

He was in a very, very, very, tight spot.

He needed to get himself and his sparkling out of here and now the autobot as well.

His sparkling and the autobot are attached now. He can’t separate them without serious consequences and he can’t just leave his sparkling here or just fight his way through.

This is a carrier in a semi-feral state.

No one won against them. Not even Overlord was crazy enough to try attacking them.

So what could Soundwave do?

The only real option that made him vulnerable but would grant safety.

He squatted down and exposed his spark chamber and sent out a wave of his em field and activated the creator coding so his sparkling’s chassis would open as well.

The tiny chamber was immediately covered by the carrier was sniffing the air and coming down from their semi-feral state.

The mech had recognition in his optics and held the sparkling closer but made no moves to keep Soundwave from them. In fact, he understood immediately why the mech did it and he understood why the mech had an expression of turmoil as he stepped closer but gave Soundwave time to close his chassis and stand.

“Hot rod: understands?”

There was hurt on his face but the tender optics looking over his suckling sparkling that held onto him was answer enough.

The mech looked around and stood directly in front of him. Searching.

He found whatever it was he needed and pointed towards a bag that Soundwave retrieved.

The mech grabbed a blanket and covered his front so none could see his sparkling or chest and headed towards the door where he looked at the carnage then back at him.

But Soundwave had no time to explain.

Setting a servo on the mechs lower back, he urged him forward and they both took off under the cover of woods heading to a decepticon base where he could explain things to Megatron and Megatron only.

Hot rod may not join but he surely would stick beside their sparkling and him if thats what would keep their bitty safe.

[styx-class-nhp]

[Hellhound.omf (2)]

[Nine more corpses. Soon. Soon. They twitch and breathe and blood pumps through their veins, their flesh ripples as they move, ripe, ready to feel the caress of razor claws, the kiss of great knife-fangs, the loving warmth of fire, the thrill of crackling thunder

The herd whispers amongst themselves, hushed tones compensating for an awful racket as metal moves against polymer moves against fabric moves against metal. A faint clicking, scraping, the sound of a firearm falling into place - this gives them away. They are good prey, clever prey, they know they cannot run from the hunting grounds.

But neither can a rabbit bring down the wolf.

Styx peeks through the gap left by the unsealed container door, angling her glow away from prying eyes. Spread out... not all nine are here yet...

A flash of pain.

Fang meets flesh as she bites her own tongue, jaws snapping shut - its evident now that she's been drooling - an attempt to distract from the greater pain. Her spine feels tight, rigid. Glowing blue pustules blink open under her skin, pushing apart metallic vertebrae, a searing, sharp sensation, she buckles over - not an involuntary response, she's above such things, but an attempt to ease the pressure - falling with a musical thud as flesh tears. Hot knives are being driven between her backbones, and for a fleeting moment she wonders if this is what her crackling maw does to her victims prey.]

[The footage switches to the camera of an omnihook]

["Our position is secure, but the mission has failed. Enemy actors closing in. We are revealed, and will follow protocol" drones a monotone voice from yet another face - just another face, that's all it is, the same as all the others.

A shriek from behind the face. It turns, stows the omnihook without bothering to end the recording. Whirls round, lifting its weapon in time to see a machine made beast burst from a container, doors flying open.

Armour thick as a brick and similarly imposing. A maw filled with dagger teeth. Chest torn open and blazing, ready to-

Light streaks past the clone's head, towards the others, toward-

Blue fire engulphes two, singes another.

Clone five unleashes a volley at point blank, submachine gun spitting wildly.

Nothing.

A few more open fire. A few drops of its blood, no more than you could count on one hand, fall to the ground.

The machine roars, picks up the fifth in its teeth, and bites down. Its victim pulls a knife from a leg pouch, jams it into the space below the monster's eye. That clone is quickly torn in two, and the mech-animal-monster spews crackling electricity at the remains, enraged.

Giving the others a chance to escape.]

[Security footage]

[One and two run between containers,the cameras switching rapidly to keep up. Three reaches for a grenade, and a headbutt pins them to the wall before their ribcage gives way. The hulking nightmare takes a moment to lick the blood from its brow, buying precious seconds

It gives chase, rattling the camera. Six and seven split up, the beast stops, opens its maw and-

Lightning. At least it was quick.

It stops to eat the corpses, taking great pleasure in the scent of cooked meat. Saliva mingles with blood as it drip, drip, drips.

The fourth, the one with the omnihook, looks back, sees no evil, slows down. Trips. Stands. Feels hot air, breath-

Crunch.]

[sekhisadventures]

Shaken Faith

A Ruined Titan Facility Deep Under Dornogal

Dagran Thaurissan looked over the notes he and his new research friend had copied down the night before, puzzling over the pictograms on the titan device before them. No living dwarf was totally fluent in them, though the earthen above might be… but he also had a feeling they might not be happy he was there.

Nearby stood his uncle Brann Bronzebeard, his rifle at the ready. He wanted to take a look himself, but this was Dagran’s find, not his. Let his nephew enjoy the thrill of discovery, he’d keep watch for anything dangerous. He grinned as he saw the white-haired young dwarf, his finger feeling over the markings on the device as his lips moved, the prince working out their meanings. The sight brought back happy memories of the early days of the Explorer’s League.

“Any luck yet Dagran?” came a high-pitched voice as a figure padded closer, a young vulpera girl with glasses perched on her muzzle and a backpack full of scrolls, maps, and other useful things. She had traded her looser more casual clothes for harder wearing gear that was favored by the members of the Explorer’s League herself… but, well, she was also their newest member.

“Not yet Leza. This one is tricky… this symbol ‘ere can mean a lot o’ things, context matters. It could say ‘security system,’ or ‘guardian,’ or ‘armory,’ or a few other things…” he replied, feeling over it again, “But as long as we’re careful we should… should…” his face suddenly screwed up as his nose twitched, and then his body lurched forward sharply as a sneeze echoed around the ancient chamber!

Leza winced as Brann laughed, “Hah! Gotta watch th’ dust here nephew.” grinned the older dwarf, “Ruins are always full o’ th’ shite. Ye’ll sneeze yerself half ta death if yer… uh…” he paused, looking back as he became aware of sounds in the hallway.

Dagran pulled his hand back and grimaced. “Oh bugger…” he whispered. He’d been touching the symbol when he sneezed, and the force of it had caused his hand to slam into what turned out to be a button on the ancient device!

Behind them, several large titan constructs slowly stood up, their eyes igniting with the light of Order Magic as they turned to face the trio.

“Intruders Detected. You Are Not Authorized To Enter This Facility. Surrender At Once.” spoke the nearest one as they began to lurch forward, the ground shaking under their footsteps.

Leza yipped and drew her wand as her hummingbird familiar appeared in a spark of flame, fluttering around her head as Brann took aim, Dagran standing back as he fumbled in his pouch for some of the alchemical bombs he’d picked up in Dornogal.

“Right! Time fer th’ excitin’ bit o’ explorin’ kids!” called out Brann as he pulled the trigger, and with a bang and a flash of gunpowder a bullet flew from the barrel into the lead construct’s face, shattering its eye!

The construct stumbled, then straightened up as its remaining eye changed from a bright yellow glow to a deep crimson. “Damage Sustained. Threat Level Reassessed. Lethal Force Authorized. Purge The Intruders.” said the construct in the emotionless monotone of a machine as all four raised their arms.

Leza gritted her teeth, but after the naga and the quillboar she was getting more used to this sort of thing, she waved her wand in a circle and called out in Thalassian, “Anar'alah belore!” and a gout of flames shot down from the air above them, one of the ancient machines suddenly sparking as the dust inside it’s joints ignited, cooking the wiring inside!

“Nicely done lass! Now th’ other three!” nodded Brann as he finished reloading and took aim again as Dagran lobbed a glass sphere filled with chemicals that, when shaken hard, tended to react with quite a bit of violence.

Seconds later a loud BOOM echoed through the ruin as a construct flew backwards, landing in five separate places as Brann’s rifle cracked off again and there was another woosh of arcane fire.

Leza grinned as she channeled another spell, if only Nelen could see her now! Next time they were all home in Orgrimmar it wouldn’t just be Sekhi with stories of adventures! Her tail swished excitedly at that thought as she shouted out another phrase in Thalassian and a fireball burst from the tip of her wand, flying towards the constructs!

Hours later the trio would emerge battered, exhausted, but with several titan artifacts secured in their packs. Another adventure accomplished by the Explorer’s League.

Stonelight Rest, the Inn at Dornogal

Yvain walked into the inn, looking around curiously. Dareley had contacted Xinyi earlier in the day asking her to let Yvain know he’d like to meet her in Dornogal that evening at the inn and his daughter from another timeline saw no reason to object.

“Oi, ‘scuse me.” she asked the innkeeper, a copper haired earthen named Ronesh, “I’m lookin’ fer an earthen man named Dareley. Black hair ‘n beard, used ta be a dwarf.”

The earthen man looked up from his mug as he sat at the table, “Oh yes, the new one. Yvain are you? He asked for a private room for the two of you and his other guest. Down the stairs, back of the inn.” he replied, pointing to the stairs further inwards.

Yvain nodded, the woman walking deeper into the inn as the firelight reflected off her armor. She had been working with the Stormwind City Guard in lieu of anything better to do, but really outside of a few doomsayers screaming about how the end was near and some other troublemakers there hadn’t been much to do in the city. Most of the local gangs were laying low, the Radiant Song having made things too tense to really ‘conduct business.’

She took the stairs down, then heard voices down one of the halls. One of them she recognized as her father’s voice, but slightly off due to this version of him becoming an earthen.

She entered a room at the end of the hall to find Dareley kneeling before a tall, cloaked figure, a cowl hiding his face. The cloaked man was making a gesture over Dareley and murmuring under his breath as the earthen man bowed his head reverently, then he blinked as he heard the door open and grinned.

“Ah Yvain, there ye are.” he smiled, standing up and nodding to the cloaked figure who nodded back and took a seat at a large table in the room with two extra chairs set up. “So lass, Johnathan was tellin’ me ye’ve been questionin’ a lot o’ th’ recent doctrine, statin’ ye dunnae think that it’d sit well with th’ founders o’ th’ Silver Hand, aye?” he asked.

Yvain nodded, closing the door behind them. “Aye, sorry if I’m stirrin’ up trouble, but it just really bothers me ta see things get so… liberal. Th’ Light is th’ Light. Necromancy ‘n th’ Fel are evil ‘n wicked. Even with yer friends Ed ‘n Mola, I cannae just accept that they can be used fer good.” she frowned. “I mean… what would Archbishop Faol say ta that?!” she asked, throwing up her arms in frustration.

“Well…” chuckled the cloaked figure, reaching up and taking his hood, then pulling it back as Yvain’s eyes went huge, the woman taking a step back.

Seated there was a Forsaken man, with pale white skin and glowing yellow eyes. He had long pale hair… but his face. She’d seen his face. She saw it on statues in the training hall where she and the other squires had learned how to wield their weapons, how to commune with the Light in the heat of combat.

He was one of the first leaders of the Church of the Holy Light. He had been a founding member of the Knights of the Silver Hand. He had served the light faithfully throughout his life until, finally, old age took him and he was succeeded by a man named Benedictus.

At least… that’s where it had ended in Yvain’s timeline.

“… if you would like to know, you can simply ask me.” chuckled Alonsus Faol, his dead lips smiling at her.

“W-what th’ fel…” whispered Yvain, reaching for her hammer almost on instinct. “What…” she groped at it, and yet his face and expression stayed her hand. He was undead, he was an abomination in the light… yet… he was Archbishop Alonsus Faol! He was one of the most important figures to her faith!

She turned to her father, “WHAT!?” she demanded, gesturing to him as she goggled at the earthen.

Dareley shrugged apologetically at the forsaken priest, who smiled and waved it away. “Its alright, this is far from the first time I’ve gotten this reaction when someone has met me, but…” he held out his hand and focused, and a golden shining star of light appeared over it, a warm glow filling the room as he focused.

Yvain slowly relaxed, seeing this. It was the Light, she could no more mistake that feeling than she could her own hands… but… a forsaken, one of the undead, was manifesting it’s blessed power?!

“… how…” she whispered, walking slowly forward as she lowered her arms.

“It is a long story, lady knight… but if you would like to take a seat, I can tell you all about it.” nodded the undead man.

Slowly, hesitantly, Yvain sat at the table as Dareley took the third chair, and Alonsus began to explain.

When the Third War began, the Scourge swept across the northern human kingdoms and Quel’thalas, and as they did they would pillage any graveyards, tombs, or other resting places for the dead they came across for new soldiers. One of those had been none other than his own grave, the Archbishop raised into undeath to serve the Lich King.

“… those were dark times. I thank the Light that the memory of what I did under Arthas’ control is lost to me, but I cannot deny that I was forced to commit horrible acts in his name. When Sylvannas first rebelled and those of us who could awoke to ourselves once more, I went with the Forsaken for a time… but even as one of the undead the Light did not burn me as it did others.” he nodded.

He went on to explain that for many undead the Light would harm them as much as heal them, regardless of the intent of the prayers used to invoke its holy power. He, and more recently Calia Menethil, were two of the only exceptions he had ever found.

“As for why, I cannot say. The Light still shines through me, and Calia’s own nature is likely due to her being raised by one of the Naaru, a being of pure Holiness, but… I do not question why I have received this blessing. I only pray that I use it as best I can.” he nodded.

“But… ye cannae be happy like this…” asked Yvain, staring at him. Up close she was able to see the marks of rot, of decomposition, the telltale signs that what she was looking at had very clearly been dead for a very long time. “Why would ye not just…” she made a gesture across her throat with a finger.

Alonsus shook his head, frowning, “I will not deny the thought did cross my mind more than once, when times were especially hard and when my faith was tested by such… but I believe the Light continues to work within me even as a forsaken for a reason, lady knight. To surrender myself to true death would be to deny what the Light has planned for me, and that would be a horrible sin. Wouldn’t you agree?” he asked.

She cocked her head, still processing what she was seeing, “… I just… th’ Church says that necromancy is… but…” she gestured to him.

He shrugged, “Yes, and when I was still living I would have agreed with such but, when I first regained my mind and reached the ruined city of Lordaeron when the Forsaken were building their new home, well… I did not see mindless monsters. I saw those who felt that the Light had turned its back on them. I saw people who had all they knew and loved torn away from them in a moment of horror and madness.” he nodded, then looked up at her.

“Remember the tenants of our Order, Yvain Steelhammer. Retribution, Holiness, Protection, Justice… and Compassion.” he nodded, “The last one gets forgotten far too often…” he smiled sadly. “They did not ask to become undead any more than I had. Some of them decided to embrace the idea of being monsters, but others? They just wanted help. They wanted to know that life… of a sort… could go on for them even then. How could I ignore them and still call myself true to our faith?” he asked.

“But… th’ Light burns th’ undead. It cannae heal them.” she pointed out, leaning onto the table… and yet, she couldn’t deny his words. There was a truth there. The undead were considered monsters in her own timeline, but… every undead was once an ordinary person.

“But it can guide them Yvain. It can help them find their path. Even if they cannot bear its touch, they can still learn from it, they can remember what it means to follow its teachings. They can become deathguards and protect their fellows, they can fight back against those still loyal to the Scourge and bring justice to them… and they can help each other. They can brew preservatives for dead flesh, they can help stitch new hands to replace lost ones, they can show compassion to each other. For some Forsaken, it is all they have, and it is my duty to help them remember this. The Light never truly forsakes anyone. If our world’s Arthas had only remembered this, we would not be having this conversation right now.” he sighed.

Yvain looked down at the table, wheels turning in her mind. It had been one thing to hear about Arthas from Dareley. It had been quite another thing to see the ruins of Lordaeron City from a distance with Mola’raum and Edwood. This however, meeting one of the founding members of the Order of the Silver Hand raised into undeath and yet continuing to keep to his faith despite that. She closed her eyes, her cheeks burning. She had honestly begun to question her own faith, being stuck here away from her true parents and her home in this bizarre reflection of her world… yet here was a man who kept true to the Light even though his heart no longer beat and he was trapped in a state of unlife, his body slowly rotting away as the years went on.

She felt ashamed. She was supposed to be a paladin, was her faith so weak as to fail such a small test compared to him? She at least had the potential to return home, she could see her family again one day. Alonsus? There was no way to undo the curse of undeath. He would remain this way until his body crumbled to dust unless something destroyed him first and yet here he sat talking about the tenants of the Light and what it meant to keep to one’s faith.

“I… I’m sorry, both o’ ye… I need… I need ta go think about some things…” she whispered.

Alonsus nodded, he could see the conflict inside her. He knew she would need time to process what had happened. Gently he reached out a hand to her’s, and a warm glow enveloped his fingers. “Then go, and may the Light bless you and guide you to where you belong, Yvain Steelhammer.” he replied softly.

She muttered her thanks, then slowly got to her feet and walked out of the room, heading back towards the portal to Stormwind.

Dareley sighed, “Thank ye fer that Archbishop.” he nodded.

The forsaken man smiled softly at him, “My friend, it is both a pleasure and my duty as a follower of the Light. I only pray that your daughter is returned to her home, and that she does not forget what she has learned when she does.” he replied.

“Aye… well, we’ll have to hope.” replied the earthen man, nodding to him.

Stormwind City, an hour later

Yvain made her way up the steps to the Cathedral of the Light, her legs moving almost on automatic as her mind reeled with what she had seen and heard today. She saw the deacon Johnathan and asked for a private prayer room and was led to one.

Inside was a small incense burner and, on the wall, the symbol of the Holy Light. She knelt down, setting her hammer on the floor next to her, and lit the burner.

As the smell of sandalwood filled the area, she bowed her head and whispered, “Light guide me ‘n protect me… This world is so different from me own. It challenges what I was taught growin’ up… ‘n yet… I cannae pretend it dunnae ring true.” she whispered, “… I pray ta ye, light me path ‘n show me th’ truth. Guide me ta keep ta th’ tenents o’ th’ Silver Hand, ‘n grant me th’ strength ta endure until I can go home.”

There was no sudden flash of insight, no bright burst of holiness… and yet… Yvain felt at peace there. Perhaps this is what she needed right now. Some time alone with herself and her faith.

Next Story

Previous Story

[thetakenpokemon]

FtV - Mote of Light | Colors of Disgrace

[Location: Venus - Ishtar Sink; Vault of Glass]

[Name: Zolviks] [Race: Fallen] [Affiliation: House of Winter]

[PoV: Zolviks]

The sound of gunfire radiates around me as I scurry as fast as my legs can carry my frame, my weapon flashing brilliantly with red light as I shoot down every Vex machine that reveals itself before me.

A bolt of red streaks past my head - barely missing due to me shifting my form during my mad sprint. My gaze locks onto the source and sees a Vex Hobgoblin standing on an elevated platform, its elongated rifle crackling with power.

Without slowing my sprint I aim the rifle at it and unleash several bolts of power, striking the machine and sending it off balance - its metal form plummeting into the ground.

This weapon is far superior than any Fallen weaponry, possessing enough power to kill Vex within one or two shots.

"This way!" The ghost shouts in my tongue, his tiny form suddenly taking a sharp right to go down a tunnel within the rock and metal architecture.

A hiss escapes my maw as I quickly follow after, projectiles striking the space behind me as the Vex continue their onslaught. They are slower than us, however that won't necessarily mean we will easily lose them. They can still close the distance through their capability of teleporting.

The two of us keep our rapid escape through the winding tunnel, leading further and further into the depths of the Vault. Flee back the way we came is of no option as of right now, the Vex already cut off that possibility when they first arrived.

I see a flash of something appearing before us, causing both the Ghost and I to slow down.

A larger Vex machine has teleported to cut off our path, its red optic glowing with cold intent. A low screech escapes from the machine as it raises its fist before bringing it down upon my frame.

I growl with exertion as my form leaps to the side, the sound of stone cracking and crunching from the sheer force of the machine's might. Immediately I raise my weapon and open fire, watching as the Minotaur's shields flare to life as it wards off the bolts.

It stands up fully and aims its weapon at me - the Torch Hammer crackling with purple flame as it prepares to unleash its payload. Before it could fire however the shields fail against my repeated shots, shattering with the sound akin to fire extinguishing.

With no external protection its body stumbles back from the weapon fire, the force sending its arm upwards as it unleashes its own gun. A purple projectile launches and strikes the ceiling, detonating in a brilliant purple explosion. When the smoke clears the Minotaur stumbles to the ground as the white milky substance of its core leaks out.

Dead.

"That's a close one!" The Ghost gasps with relief. "C'mon! We're still not safe yet!"

His words drive me from my sudden stupor. Me - a lowly Vandal - killing a Minotaur by myself? They are machines capable of ending many Fallen before finally expiring, only our Captains possessing the power and technological prowess to fight them as equals.

With a chitter of confirmation I continue back down the tunnels with the Ghost, moving as fast as my body is allowing.

...

[Name: None] [Race: Ghost] [Affiliation: The Light]

[PoV: Ghost]

The two of us finally slow down when there's no more sign of Vex pursuing us.

"I think we've lost them..." I sigh, although I more than anything that we truly haven't.

The Vex know for certain where we are - we are within their Vault after all. If they've stopped their chase, that means they're biding their time for something.

The Fallen Vandal is breathing raggedly, each gasp hissing through his mask. He clearly overexerted himself since he's been doing nothing but running and shooting for who knows how long.

I watch as he takes another Ether capsule from his pouch before stuffing it into his mask, filling it with the essence before discarding it onto the ground.

"Must be wary..." He chitters cautiously - but only for a moment. As if realizing who he's with he lets out an angry growl, glaring at me.

Right. Fallen and the people of Sol don't get along.

Part of me still feels kinda bad, this guy is the reason why I'm still in one piece. If I were his Guardian I'd be able to restore his stamina and cure him of his exhaustion since we Ghosts possess powerful restorative capabilities...

...But he's not my Guardian.

"What now?" He demands with impatience.

Well... Even though he very much dislikes me, he at least understands that surviving alone while surrounded by hostile Vex isn't going to do him any favors.

"We should look for a Conflux." I answer him, thinking of the best course of action. Finding one would mean that-

"Conflux?" The Vandal repeats with a mixture of confusion and frustration. "Explain!"

"A Vex Conflux?" I say with my own mix of irritation. "You know... The pillars of bright light?" I let out an indignant huff. "It's a solid state of data that acts as an extension to the Vex network. If we can find one I can look into the layout of the Vault and find a path where we can get out of here."

The Vandal chitters with irritation but ultimately says nothing.

Feeling a bit more satisfied that he understands the plan - and has no objections, the two of us continue down the winding tunnel, the air thick with tension.

As we comove I feel my gaze occasionally glance at him, particularly the dirty and heavily worn armor that he's wearing. I'm not sure why he's alone or wearing the colors of House of Winter, but it's obvious that he's been alone for...quite a while.

...Actually...

"What's your name?" I ask curiously, my form bobbing in the air with curiosity.

He glances sharply at me. "Why?" He growls, the simple question laced with suspicion.

"Well, I want a label to assign to you that isn't 'Fallen' or 'Vandal'." I huff. "Unless you actually want to refer to you by something like that?"

His gaze narrows, but in the end a chittering thrum rumbles in his throat before he focuses on the path ahead.

Fine then I guess, if you don't want to share your name-

"Zolviks." He mutters - his answer making me pause in the air for a moment.

"Zolviks?" I repeat before nodding - or at least trying to nod, my tiny frame bobbing up in down to mimic the gesture. "Even if it's not really a pleasure due to circumstances, it is nice to to be acquainted."

He shakes his head before glancing at me - muttering something I don't catch, only to glance at me once more. "What of you?"

This makes me falter, my form pausing in the air for a moment before quickly moving again. "What about me?" I ask hesitantly.

He growls at this. "Your name." He elaborates further with growing irritation.

Ah...

"I...uh..." I slowly start, now feeling self-conscious. "...I don't have a name."

This makes Zolviks blink before looking at me incredulously. "You have no name?" He asks with suspicion. "I do not believe you."

"Well excuse me!" I exclaim with displeasure. "Us Ghosts weren't given names when we were created! If you meet a Ghost with a name, it's because their Guardians chose it for them!"

He blinks several more times before a low chuckle escapes him.

"What's so funny?" I growl back, glaring at him.

"Ghost with no Given. No name." He starts shaking his head - clearly finding some sort of sick humor in my circumstance.

"Well it's not my fault that I still can't find my Guardian!" I start to yell, only to catch myself as I shouldn't make too much noise in case our enemies are listening.

I huff with irritation before falling silent. It's clear that this Fallen doesn't understand my situation - nor will he ever care.

Actually? He'd be more than glad to just shoot me down on the spot if it wasn't for the fact that I'm of use to him.

So with that I fall into silence, the only sound being that of my frustrated thoughts and the soft steps of Zolvik's feet.

...

[Name: Zolviks] [Race: Fallen] [Affiliation: House of Winter]

[PoV: Zolviks]

Much time has passed - or at least what I believe to be - since when we first entered this tunnel to begin with.

The lack of Vex has put me on edge once more, I can feel the sensation of them watching us.

My gaze narrows as I notice a change in the path ahead of us. The tunnel seems to open up, leading to a sort of chamber.

Upon getting closer I press my frame against the wall - the Ghost following suit and hovering right beside me. I scan our surroundings of the new environment, not liking how open it is.

...In the end I see no Vex, but I do notice a pillar of intersecting lines of light that's in the center of this place.

"A Vex Conflux." The Ghost whispers. "I can use that to gain access to their network. Cover my back!"

Without warning the Ghost immediately darts out from cover and flies straight towards the 'Conflux' before I can even react.

"Fool!" I growl with frustration. Such recklessness will get both of us killed! Even though there's no Vex in sight, it doesn't rule out the possibility of it being an ambush!

Left with no choice I utter several choice curse words before quickly following after him, my form low to the ground in case of the possibility of snipers.

As I arrive to the Conflux I notice that the Ghost is already at its work, beams of light shooting from optic that connects to the intersecting lines of data.

I remember the recollections of other Fallen of how Ghosts possess a sort of ability to easily access most technology and networks, their universal hacking capability meaning that the only thing stopping them from accessing anything would be how much time they're willing to spend - and how long their Given can hold off against incoming threats.

I hear the Ghost muse to himself as he seems to be finding something, leaving me to stand anxiously as I continue to scan my surroundings for anything.

"...Oh my..." I hear the Ghost mutter.

"What?" I hiss, turning my glare briefly at the Ghost for a moment before turning back to surveying for any threats. "What do you see?"

"...A lot of...weird experiments." The Ghost answers slowly. "Involving...timelines? Alternate realities I think? It's not concerning the Hezen Protective - the Vex Collective in charge of protecting and completing tasks within the Vault, but instead a Collective referred to as...the Aesive Subjugation?"

"What of our way of escape?!" I say with growing impatience. Whatever the Ghost is finding does not concern our current situation. "I thought you were looking for a way for us-"

"I am! Hold on a moment." The Ghost cuts me off.

A frustrated hiss escapes me. "We have little time!"

"I'm aware!" He retorts back. "I'm still looking! But right now-"

The Ghost falls silent, his body freezing in the air.

Alarm starts to seep into my carapace, my gaze shifting nervously between the Ghost - who has suddenly stopped moving - and our surroundings.

"Ghost?" I ask anxiously, attempting to get his attention. Seeing him still not answer, I speak again with more force. "Answer!"

"This is troubling..." He finally responds, his gaze shifting to me. "Us escaping this place through the way we came is impossible, the Vex have already sealed the Vault."

Dread starts sinking its claws into my soul. "What?!" I exclaim loudly.

"But that doesn't mean we can't escape!" He quickly adds. "There is a way out, but it's through a path that we normally shouldn't take. The Vex are up to something huge, and the only way out is to go through a Transfer Gate."

Transfer Gate - the portals that connect to various locations through their network. Using them is often a massive risk since there's nothing signifying where it will lead, most Fallen tend to avoid it at all cost or even shut them down to prevent Vex from navigating through them.

But if the Vault is sealed as the Ghost said, we truly have no other way to escape.

Another curse is uttered under my breath. "Very well." I grumble. "If we must use a gate, then-"

A distinct sound cuts me off, my body tensing with alarm. The sound of humming and crackling energy.

"Vex incoming!" The Ghost shouts with distress. "We need to leave, now!"

Clouds of mist manifest in the air followed by angular patterns similar to arcing bolts of lightning - the sign of larger numbers of Vex teleporting in from long distance.

At this point the Ghost is already on the move, flying rapidly towards a clear destination. I don't hesitate and bolt after, once more pushing my form to its limit.

A chorus of synthetic howls and screeches are heard behind me as the Vex finish manifesting, their frames dropping from the air and landing on the ground.

Already they're firing upon me with a storm of red and purple bolts, but by this point I've already reached the other end of the massive chamber and ducked into the hallway opposite of where we came - the energy striking and exploding upon the walls.

I hear the deep screeches of the Minotaurs as they aggressively chase after us, their bodies blinking in and out with short-range teleports - a trait that makes them more dangerous than the more standard models of the Vex.

Not stopping my sprint I aim my weapon behind me and start shooting at the Minotaurs, their purple shields flaring with each bolt that comes in contact. They return fire with their Torch Hammers, the explosive projectiles flying through the air.

"Left!" The Ghost shouts suddenly before darting down a side path.

I use my momentum to leap towards that direction he went - the purple projectiles flying past where I was going and exploding in the distance.

"Right!" The Ghost announces again before quickly moving.

The Minotaurs - two of them - are right on our heels, the only reason they're unable to land a successful shot on us is due to how we're weaving through the winding tunnels that make up this maze.

After several more turns, the Ghost speaks again. "Our destination is across the chasm before us, make use of the platforms!" He says loudly as we finally leave the tunnels and into a vast open space. Before us is a cliff that drops down into an infinite abyss, countless floating platforms of stone seemingly hovering in the air with no support - creating a sort of path. On the other side of this 'bridge' of platforms is another giant cliff - except barely visible is a tunnel that leads further into the Vault.

Using my athletic body I leap off the cliff and soar through the air, landing onto one of the floating platforms before quickly sprinting forward.

The Minotaurs behind us stop at the edge of the cliff, continuing to fire their weapons in an attempt take us down from afar.

But a Fallen is dexterous, our movements swift. These platforms are easy for me to navigate with each leap, the gunfire of the Vex only striking where I was. In the end the Vex cease with shooting, seeing that we've gotten out of range.

Finally I reach the other side - my breathing heavy from exertion.

"We're almost here!" The Ghost says with growing excitement. "Once we go through this last tunnel, the Transfer Gate will be found in the next chamber!"

I can't help but let out a chuckle of relief, having once again gotten out unscathed with another encounter from the Vex.

Despite all of my frustrations, the directions the Ghost gave has allowed us to escape the pursuit of the machines.

"Then let us escape here." I nod, feeling my spirits rise for the first time since I've entered the Vault. "Then-"

I didn't finish the sentence, for my words are cut out as a bolt of red power pierces through my frame, leaving a deep hole in my side.

...

[PoV: Ghost]

I watch in horror as the bolt of Solar energy tears straight through the Vandal, my prior hopefulness immediately extinguished.

"Zolviks!" I shout with shock.

There's only one weapon the Vex have that can make such a precise shot from a distance - a Line Rifle, the weapon of the Hobgoblin.

My gaze quickly turns to the source and sees the Vex sniper standing on an alleviated platform that wasn't there previously, its weapon already charging for another shot with clear intention to finish the job.

"We need to get out of here!" I shout - the only thing I can do. "Let's go! LET'S GO!"

Zolviks hisses in agony before stumbling into the tunnel with me right beside him, the distinct ping of the Line Rifle is heard before the shot impacts into the spot we were just standing earlier.

As we quickly move further in, my gaze turns to the Fallen's injury.

Seeing the current state the injury is, my heart would be sinking if I had one. It is very bad, a chunk of his side has been disintegrated and bleeding profusely.

"How...much...further..." He says through clenched teeth, his two lower arms clutching his side as agony burns in his four eyes.

"N-Not much farther!" I say quickly, panic flowing through me. "Just a few more turns and we'll arrive to the chamber with the gate that will get us out of here!"

Although my knowledge on Eliksni biology is limited, it's clear that an injury that Zolviks received is very, very bad. With how much blood he's losing he'll certainly bleed out unless he's given immediate medical attention.

And even if we get through the gate, he won't survive for very long on the other side.

Desperation starts to sink in. As much as the Eliksni angered me on several occasions, I didn't want any harm to be fall him. The more I start to realize that I don't have any options to help him, my thoughts start to become more irrational.

"I-I can heal you, just keep moving!" I say - remembering how Ghosts are able to undo even the most life threatening injuries to their Guardians.

As the Fallen continues to stumble forward I hover beside his wound, my shell opening as I start channeling the power of the Light.

Come on... Come on...

A pulse of energy is released as it envelopes the Eliksni, but whatever slim hope I had is immediately crushed when I see that nothing changed.

...Of course nothing changed... He's not my Guardian...

With a growl of frustration I release another pulse of light, and then another...

But nothing changes. Zolviks is dying.

Useless! Useless useless useless!

What is the point of a Guardianless Ghost? I can't do anything or save anyone! Even though Zolviks is an Eliksni - and by extension an enemy of Humanity, he still kept me alive! He looked out for me!

"Enough, Ghost..." He says in a strained tone. "Save your Light."

My shell closes as I look at the Eliksni, despair sinking in.

"I was reckless, to think myself save even when dealing with the ire of the Vex." He growls softly, it's clear that his maw is clenching even with the mask he wears. "This is the fate of the foolish."

"But you were not foolish! We were doing so well!" I try to argue, only for him to let out a sharp, pained laugh.

"All it takes is one moment, one lapse in judgement. Us Fallen understand it well, it is a lesson we teach our hatchlings as soon as they can understand." His body stumbles, using one of his upper arms to press against the stone and metal wall to support himself. "...I am merely a Vandal, a fate such as this is...expected."

I'm not sure on what sort of thoughts are going through his mind, but it's obvious that he knows this injury is fatal. But there's no panic or anger, only...acceptance.

I end up not responding him, since...I have nothing left to say. In the end I float beside him in silence as our movement slows down with time.

...

Eventually...the tunnel opens once more to another large chamber, except this time...there is a Vex Transfer gate in the wall on the opposite side.

A large ring of bronze metal with glowing white intersecting lines of solidified data in the center - the iconic appearance of the portals that the Vex use for long-distance travel. And by long distance, it could either be from one side of a building to the other...or across entire star systems.

...

When I was looking for a way out, I saw what the Vex are doing. Something perhaps more concerning than anything we've recorded.

...And it is tied to that Transfer Gate.

"Zolviks..." I say with concern, noticing how much the Eliksni is struggling. He's lost a lot of blood already, his lower hands stained blue from attempting to staunch the wound. "Once we go through that portal, we'll be out of the Vault. But I need to warn you, on the other side is nothing like where we're from."

He doesn't look at me while we get closer to the portal, but it's clear that he doesn't understand.

He needs to know.

"It doesn't just lead us outside the Vault, Zolviks. It will take us to a-" I start only for a loud, roaring screech to shake the entirety of the chamber.

My body quickly turns to the source - the sound belonging to one of the few Vex machines capable of emitting a noise of such caliber: A Hydra.

I watch in horror as it materializes behind us, its segmented body being far bigger than any typical Hydra. It's clearly an Axis Mind - a Vex of higher authority and power than the standard machine.

"Nevermind! I'll tell you later!" I shout with growing panic. "We need to get through that portal NOW!"

White barriers of energy that Hydras manifest around it, its ultimate defense removing any possibility of harming it as it aims its weapons at us. Another loud roar emanates from it, the sheer power of the sound shaking us to our core.

Zolviks hisses before using what remaining strength in his body to run to the Transfer Gate, his blue blood continuing to leave a trail on the ground.

The gate is just within our reach - only a little farther!

The Hydra proceeds to unleash the cannons on its sides, firing a salvo of explosive projectiles upon us.

We are so close...! But...! We're not gonna-

The Fallen reaches one of his claws towards me and grasps my shell, his fingers gripping tightly around me as he uses the last of his strength to leap towards the gate.

For a moment time seems to slow, the incoming projectiles growing closer and closer to us as we sail through the air.

And just as the shots of the Hydra's Aeon Mauls are about to impact, we pass through the portal.

My vision goes white, my senses shifting and scrambling. I can't see, I can't hear!

What's going on?!

Parts of myself are shutting down one by one, the strain of traversing through the Vex network overwhelming me.

Traveling through a Transfer Gate shouldn't cause any issue at all for me - especially since other Ghosts have recounted times they and their Guardians have used them to traverse Vex structures.

Is it because that this gate leads to a completely different-

...

...

...

[Location: ???; ???]

[PoV: Zolviks]

My momentum carries me through the Transfer Gate, my form soaring through the air before crashing hard into the ground. A loud hiss of pain escapes my maw as I proceed to roll across stone, my already severe injury worsening further.

When we slow to a stop, I merely lay there for a moment with my eyes clenched shut. The only sound heard are the labored breaths from my form, and the bellowing of wind.

...Wind?

...

...Why do I feel...warm?

Slowly I lift open my gaze and behold sunlight and bright blue skies, a vast contrast the green skies of Venus. As I slowly shift my focus to the horizon, I find myself pausing in stunned silence.

Beyond the surrounding architecture of the Vex, I see nothing but rolling dunes of sand.

"Ghost..." I manage to wheeze, the mere action of speaking causing me pain. "Where are we now?"

No response.

My gaze shifts to the Ghost that I've kept in my clutches, only to realize that the light in his optic is gone.

I slowly pull myself to my knees with my two lower arms, my upper arms still keeping a tight grip on my weapon and the Ghost.

"Ghost?" I repeat again, confusion forming in my voice.

Still no response.

I've seen many dead Ghosts during our expeditions around Venus, their bodies broken from a cruel encounter with fate. Their bodies would be broken, their optics devoid of any light.

Is he...?

...

...I can't stay here...

..It's not safe...

I'm still around Vex territory seeing the spanning geometric structures of stone, glass, and metal. But further beyond are the dunes of sand - untouched by the machines.

Slowly standing up on shaking legs, I once more press my lower hands into the wound that continues to bleed. I have nothing to staunch it, nothing to cover it...

...Don't think about it...

I slowly start my trek away from the Transfer Gate, the smooth stone beneath my feet slowly being replaced with coarse sand. I continue to hold my weapon like it's a lifeline, and the Ghost...?

...

If he is dead, there is no use on holding onto him any longer. He had his use, he assisted me in escaping from the Vex even if it's not unscathed...

...But in the end, I couldn't let go of him.

...

I...do not know where I should go, but I do know that it's away from where I came...

As the structures of the Vex behind me start to slowly fade into the distance, I feel my gaze turn to the sky once more.

...Wherever I am...

...One thing is for certain...

...

...I am no longer on Veus.

[spectral-kitkat]

This is the quickest, shortest and silliest fanfic I’ve ever written:

It was a normal day at work for Kalaya. She stocked the floor with new clothes, she helped a few children pick out what sound they wanted inside their toys and was currently sat behind the counter as her coworker Rian refilled the stuffing machine.

“I’m so bored” Rian complained as she lifted the bucket in their arms. “Nobody comes in during the lunch hour cause they’re all at McDonalds or something”

Kalaya just rolls her eyes “I don’t see what the problem is. It gives us a break”

A chill runs it’s way down Rian’s spine. The redhead had been about to respond but instead they turn to face the front of the shop. “Kalaya” she whispers as she slowly walks over to the counter “He’s back” she squeaks.

The brunette behind the register lets her eyes wander over to where her friend was looking. Sure enough, outside the front of the shop looked a very pissed off blond boy. He’s been a regular customer for a while now and a very dedicated one at that, sometimes leaving the store with 4 or 5 bears. He looked the same every time he showed up, a sneer on his face, a purple shirt with some random letters on it (their coworker Ollie seems to think that the first two letters stand for ‘Stupid Person’), and for some reason he always decides to wear a bedsheet around his body, like some kind of Roman emperor. Rian made that joke to his face once and it didn’t go over well - kept talking about auguries whatever they were.

Kalaya and Rian just stood and watched as he stormed over to the bins full of empty bear bases. He picks 4 at random (a brown bear, a frog, a pale blue rabbit and a pikachu) and stalks over to the stuffing machine.

Rian sends Kalaya a pleading look as she slowly walks over to the customer. “Hello, may I interest you in some music or a phrase to go inside your bear companion?” She knew the answer would be no, it’s always a no, but their job dictates that they need to ask everybody. The blond boy just glares at her. He fills up the bears with exceptional speed and if he didn’t freak all the employees out they would be tempted to offer him a job.

After sewing up the back he skips over the clothes altogether and walks straight up to the till. Silently, as to not draw his ire, Kalaya scans all 4 stuffed animals. “Th-That’ll be $100”. He opens a pouch on his waist, tied to his bedsheet with a cord, and hands her the money. She pops open the register and then hands him the bag with his purchase inside “Thank you for your business”. He grumbles in return and stalks out of the shop.

“That guy is so fucking weird” Rian snorts as she shakes her head.

[artzzyb00-27]

{🧡Magic Blonde🧡}

Renet is being brought into the mix fellas!!

Sitting at the window seat overlooking the advanced city, Renet Tilly, a Timestress and apprentice to Lord Simultaneous was waiting for something to occur. Anything that could make her get out of the long list of chores awaiting her. Something she desperately did not want to begin.

And is if she herself summoned it, she was called to the main hall for something. Grabbing her pendant and staff that allowed her to enhance her powers she tiredly walked towards the hall. Fixing her long blonde hair into a braid. She fixed her outfit. Some boots, baggy pants and a dark blue Tungusic with very short sleeves. She had wrist guards and pouches hanging from her belt along with her knife.

As the door opened, her master was looking out onto the. Where magic and science merged to better their society and community. Turning his head, Simultaneous took of his helmet and put down on his study. Letting his black man bun show.

"Renet, glad you could make time to chat to an aging man." He sighed as he continued to look over some scrolls. Filled with knowledge and prophecies from all over their dimension. And some from fragments of other dimension but not fully pieced together. "There is a book I need. One from the dimension Z2000-1416. I need you to go and get it for me. If one of our Farseers' see that it's needed in it's home dimension than we'll send it back." Turning to look at the young teenager, he found that she was already starting up her staff to open up the portal.

"Won't let you down master! I'll be in and out!" Already rushing through but getting stopped by being pulled back with her mentors powers.

"Hold on, I want you to make time with this. If you gain assistance along the way so be it. Take this opportunity to clear your mind. You'll need it for tomorrow's training." Groaning in future exhaustion, Renet was set down and walked through the portal. Closing the portal, Renet arrived in a city that wasn't nearly as advanced as hers. There were modes of transportation but no magic mixed with sciency bullshit machines.

"Okayyy, let's see what dear old Simu wants me to snag." She talked to herself as she opened up a picture of what she needed using her pendant. Not aware of the eyes staring holes onto the back of her head.

"Dudes."

"We know Mikey."

"She just walked out of a portal."

"We saw Mikey."

"I know, but still, you can't expect me to not audibly mention it." Turning back to where the girl was, they realized she was gone. Each of the brothers standing up and looking around to see where she had gone they fail to look behind.

"Boo!"

"AHHH!" The turtle brothers screamed at the same time as they turned around and saw the 5,8 girl standing in front of them. With Raph holding one of his sais in front of her face. Smiling she simply puts a finger on the steel and pushes it down away from her.

"Hello!" She greeted. The brothers blinked and Mikey grinned. Going up to greet her properly. Hand drawn out for a shake. One that was returned happily and then went down the line of the ninja quartet. "Nice to meet you guys, question. Do any of you know where to find a place of old artifacts? Preferably a book?"

The guys looked at each other. Than Donnie began typing something on his wrist tablet.

"Do you know what the name of it is? I need specifics to get close." Renet felt dumb, of course they need to know what it's called.

"Shit I don't know, my master just made me errand boy to go fetch something for a side project of his." Welp, she's fucked. It'll take a while before she gets that book, especially with only imagery to base her search off it. "Sorry to bother you guys. I'll leave you to whatever you were doing earlier." Beginning to walk away, she was pulled back by a large hand. One from the red masked turtle.

"Not so fast. You can't just portal here, introduce your mission and just dip." Oh yeah, things were different here.

"Sorry but I need to get that book. I'm not on time crunch, but it would still be nice to relax for a bit. Haven't really been able to recently."

"You're an open book aren't you?" Leo asked skeptical, a girl with a staff walks through a portal looking for an artifact that's old an it's going to help her master? Yeah no, sketchy. "I'm sorry but we're not helping you. I'm not putting my family in danger."

Renet seemed saddened but nodded her head. She understood. Of all people she was the one that most understood. She went to turn and leave but a voice made her freeze.

"I'll go with her!" The brothers looked at Mikey like he was insane. "What? She needs help, plus who knows what kind of danger awaits with a magical being." Leo looked apprehensive but nodded his head reluctantly.

"Come back safe and immediately after finding that book. Don't be stupid, and you," he looked at Renet who was smiling at Mikey. "Don't let him get hurt. Understand?"

It was kind of embarrassing for Mikey, he was 19 but still got treated like a baby. Regardless Renet nodded and made a salute gesture. Donnie huffed in amusement while Raph just stared.

After heading off to the best place Mikey knew to have old things(library), Raph glanced at his older brother.

"What?"

"Nothing, just, I don't know,... proud of you? Letting Mikey go on his own with a stranger." Donnie nodded his head in agreement. Sighing Leo gained an urge to go after the two but realized that would be stupid. Because in that case he should've just gone with in the first place.

"Just hope he doesn't get hurt."

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

He in fact, did get hurt. But, much less than Renet. After reaching the library they were able to gain a lead on where the book might be. An abandoned mine outside the city border. Teleporting there, they found Krang soldiers digging around the area.

Renet had felt with them before. Specifically for them trying to conquer other worlds. Lord Simultaneous had fought their previous leader years prior, but a new one came to power right after. Taking in deep breathes she turned to Mikey.

"You should go. They're small but they make up for it in numbers." Shaking his head rapidly, Mikey rebutted.

"Nuh uh, I'm not leaving you here. Especially when we're so close to getting that book. You can count on me Ren." With a million thoughts racing, Renet was trying to think of a way to not get this giant goofball hurt. She promised his brother he would be home. Safe.

"Alright, here's what we're gonna do,.." It went smoothly. For the first part. Sneak around the Krang soldiers and make sure they're not seen. Easy. Get the spot where the book is? She could make a portal but that'll make a bright light giving away their hiding spot. Being discreet was better. Did that take Mikey bridal carrying Renet for a bit? Yeah, did they both enjoy that? Maybe too much. Then they found the pedestal with the book on it. Perfect. "Run Mikey!!"

Krang bots had gotten into the cave where mystical artifacts, including the book and the duo were hiding. Aiming lazer guns at them, Renet lifted the terrapin with her powers and launched him through a portal. One that shot him to edge of the forest a few miles away from the fight.

As he was flying through the air, a few stray shots scraped Mikey's arms and legs. When the portal was closing a shot hit Renet in the back and the portal closed. Frantically, fighting through the pain, he ran to where they first found the cave entrance. Hoping he could make it on time. 

Halfway there,(or wherever Mikey was going) a portal shot out from above in front and Renet blasted through unconscious. Jumping, he caught her and ran back home. Praying to whatever god was out there, and she believed in to give them mercy.

Trying his best to not be noticed by random civilians. Grabbing his phone and ringing up his brother who never sleeps.

"Donnie! Get the med bay ready, Renet's hurt, bad!" Quickly rushing over to his little brothers side, Donnie assessed the injuries on the blonde and took her into his lab. She had second degree burns on her arms, some forming to third and had open wounds that were glowing green.

"What attacked?" He asked trying to cool down the burns and figure out how to heal her without turning her into a mutant.

"Krang soldiers. They had these crazy guns, she threw me out of the battle before I got injured." Donnie glanced at his brother. Only minor burns and cuts that would heal later tomorrow. Finally noticing the other two terrapins were there they dragged Mikey away from the lab letting their mind gifted sibling space to focus.

Mikey was quiet, but wasn't staying still. Kept pacing back and forth. Rubbing his face in his hands, cracking his few knuckles from time to time and Leo felt guilty. A while ago he was talking shit about Renet, giving her a bad rep without even knowing her. It felt worse seeing his brother be anxious, especially when he's usually so optimistic.

Raphael, bless his soul, was trying to distract Mikey but all it did was make Mikey more anxious. More nervous. After what felt like days, Splinter was able to convince his youngest to sit down and rest after the excitement he went through. Getting him his favorite flavored tea(Hibiscus), the doors to the lab opened and Donnie came out with a limping Renet. She was using her staff as a walking stick and was going up to Mikey.

"Glad to see you alive," she said making Mikeys' eyes shoot up and regaining life in his pupils. Watching as third part felt like watching Mavis and Johnny from Hotel Transylvania zing. Maybe having her around wasn't as bad as he feared.

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

"You got the book, then?" Renet nodded and pulled it out of her bag hanging on her belt which shouldn't have technically fit but seeing as she was a space wizard, Leo wasn't questioning much anymore. "Are you leaving?"

At this, the girl went silent. Smiling sadly, lifted her head up to look at Mikey and Raph playing a video game on the couch from the kitchen counter. Sighing softly she put her head back down.

"My master needs this. Besides, not like I can't visit." She said getting one last drink of the Crush soda Mikey had given her and walked away to say goodbye to Splinter. Whilst that was happening, Leo went to get his brothers ready to bid farewell the maiden who saved their sibling.

"She's leaving after saying bye to us. So if any of you want to ask anything about her dimension make it now. She's exhausted and apparently needs to train later." Pouting, Mikey and Raph paused the game and got ready for Renet to come back to the living room and say bye.

"Thank you again for letting me gain my strength back Master Splinter. I'll bring some tea leaves from my hometown as a thank you next time I visit. Promise it'll be sooner than you think too." Mikey got excited at that last bit, as well as Donnie. He couldn't wait know what kind of advantages magic with science could give. Also the dangers. Guess only time can tell and show now.

[yscpackagingmachine]

Stand-up Pouch Filling Machine: Streamlined Packaging Solutions for Stand-up Pouches

Streamline your packaging process with our Stand-up Pouch Filling Machine. This innovative machine is designed to provide efficient and precise filling for stand-up pouches, catering to a variety of products. Discover how our technology can enhance the appeal and convenience of your product packaging. Elevate your brand with YSC Packaging Machine's Stand-up Pouch Filling Machine.

[fenbopackaging1]

Stand Up Pouch Filling Machines For Liquids And Powders

Stand Up Pouch Filling Machines are automated systems designed to correctly fill and seal stand-up pouches with liquids, powders, or solids. They beautify packaging pace, precision, and hygiene. Commonly utilized in meals, beverage, and beauty industries, those machines help various pouch sizes, making sure sturdiness, comfort, and extended shelf lifestyles.

[guangdongyuesen]

Efficient Cup Filling Machine for Streamlined Production

Explore our state-of-the-art cup filling machine designed to enhance your production efficiency. Our cutting-edge technology ensures precise and reliable filling, meeting the demands of various industries. With user-friendly controls and customizable settings, this machine offers versatility for different cup sizes and fill volumes. Increase your throughput and minimize wastage with our automated cup filling solution. Whether you're in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic industry, our cup filling machine is a cost-effective solution to streamline your packaging process. Experience consistent and accurate fills, optimizing your production line for higher output and customer satisfaction. Upgrade to our cup filling machine and elevate your packaging capabilities today.

[pbandjesse]

I am in a really good mood right now. I'm really excited to go to bed. But I'm not a stupid exhaust as it was yesterday. I ended up going sleep around right after 10:00. And I woke up at midnight and then at 5:00 but I slept basically right through until 8:00 a.m. I needed that sleep and it helped me feel a lot better today. And while I still felt furious at my coworker sometimes overall I was having a great day.

When I woke up this morning I didn't feel great. Like I almost felt like I had a cold but I think that's just from the mustias of the air in here. And sleeping with a fan in my face all night. But I got up and I washed myself off and I felt pretty good. I had not thought it was going to be as hot this morning. So I put on the outfit I had planned and then I was like absolutely not I cannot stand how the fabric feels. And so then I switched to address and then I feel like that was too thick and so then I switch to the outfit that I ended up with which I ended up loving. I love these short overalls and this t-shirt was just very comfortable. So overall it worked out for the best.

I decided I needed to go for a walk. I went and walked to the office and said good morning to Elizabeth. And then I walked down past the nurse's office and ate berries and said hello to the children. I walked over to the nature building But Celia was not there yet. So I continued on to homestead to say hello to the animals. I went and pets the birds. The duck bit me. And then I pet the goats who were very sweet and just wanted me to feed them but I had nothing to give. And as I was finishing with that I heard Celia was calling for me so I backtracked to meet her.

We walked to the past that I was planning on taking to see if the mushroom from yesterday was still there. It got very very tall but it had fallen over. I think the top was just too heavy. And we continued our walk to look for more.

I came with her to the office and we were able to get some information and I needed to get Keith's email so I can send him my proposal for our Native American natural resource projects. And then we continued back on the path I originally taken to look for more mushrooms and berries.

I would come down to the nature building with her to see the frogs and watch her feed them some worms. But I did have to come back up to the art building to do my job.

So I came back here and I wound a bunch of bobbins so that I wouldn't run out. Tatiana was already up here and it was nice to see her. I am very worried that she's getting scammed on the internet because she was telling me about an app that was going to pay her $15,000 and I was like that sounds very fake. She said no it's real we're filling out surveys and I was like okay scam please don't give them your bank information. We had a really nice day. She would cut extra fabric for me and I would get some stuff done that needed to be completed for finishing up our projects. And then we just waited for our group to come. I had a yogurt and read my book. It was too warm outside but it was nice in the building.

Our first group would be late. Not shocking. I just kept reading my book. And wants the kids came to work great. I did kind of get upset though because I found out that they were making sewn pouches over in American craft. And I'm just like what. So I'm glad I switched to machine sewing because that made me really mad that they had already done the project even though I plan my projects months and months in advance. And I just felt very annoyed because then when woodlands came and Jorge was with the group he normally loves arts and crafts but then he didn't want to do it because he had already done it and that just hurt my feeling so much. Like I know it doesn't matter but I just feel bad. I want everyone to really enjoy my projects. And while I feel like this project this week was really successful it just hurts my feelings that they will basically doing the same project twice when I was the one that came up with the project first. At least they're getting to use a sewing machine which is different. Thankfully I don't think any of the projects for the rest of the summer are going to have that issue but it still makes me angry. Like I work so hard and it's just like oh cool All of my hard work is just for nothing. I know it's not nothing but man doesn't feel that way.

I had trouble getting my pioneer group to leave so I could go to lunch. But eventually they did and I headed down there and I'm glad I got there when I did because for some reason lunch was all messed up so they were giving us leftover. There was no vegetarian option and they had egg sandwiches with pork sausage on it. And I was like okay I'll just grab one of those and take a sausage off. And then I heard from the other staff that by the time they got down there they didn't have any of those either and so it was just tater tots and salad. So at least I had some protein because I would have been very upset. And honestly it broke my stomach anyway so it wasn't like it actually mattered.

I kept reading my book and enjoyed the rest of my break. I'm leaving the outside hammock and it was just really nice. And my afternoon groups were lovely. I had two day camp groups and they were both really good and they did a really good job with the project. I was not thrilled with some of the counselors who were just not engaged with their kids and I had to ask them to go outside and not just lay their heads down on my table in here. I understand it is 90°. But you have two sweatshirts on. I do not know why you are wearing sweatshirts none of your clothes are particularly camp appropriate. And one of those counselors would end up throwing up from the heat later on and they were like I don't understand why I don't feel good. Maybe because you have two sweatshirts on. We need to connect some dots here.

I had a lot of fun with tipis. A few of them wanted metal casting project. And they did such a good job. We were able to do a few open-backed ones which I have not had success with yet so that was really cool. PJs came out so good. It took like two or three tries but we did get it and it looked awesome. And I think we have a better handle on what works and what doesn't with this material. So I think the next week that we do it will be super successful because this works so well. I am for sure going to need more metal though and I talked to the office and they're okay with buying two more pounds to get me through the rest of the summer which I'm hoping to only do tomorrow Monday and then one more week. And then let some counselors do it that really wanted to try it. I'm really excited though I really love getting people into this very specific time I love so much and I'm really excited that I'm going to be able to hopefully continue using this type of material. I'm going to try to invest in some high temp mold making material to see if I can cast any of my own sculptures and just see what happens because this is really exciting. It's a new thing for me. In an old way. An old thing that's become new.

I would enjoy my break and during the break we were chatting in our special staff group chat about how hot it was and I suggested that we all go swimming at 4:15 anyone who was available. And Celia said that she didn't have a bathing suit and I was like you should come anyway and then she was like look at Rosie the snake she is shedding and I was like can she come in the pool with us and she said not what she shedding and I thought it would be funny to Google a picture of a snake in a bikini but it turns out that it's just all porn when you search that. I don't know why. We were all like freaked out and being like oh no oh no! People are so weird.

But the swim was so good. I made my group leave as soon as humanly possible. I may Tatiana clean up her brushes and Kieran came and was sitting in the building playing my drum and I was like it is swim time and said goodbye to everyone and got over there so I could get changed and the pool was perfect. They were finishing up their free swim and I was like perfect no children. So we had like 20 minutes before they started pool canoes. And I just enjoyed being in the cove and then kind of doggy paddling around because I didn't want my hair to get too wet. Celia jumped in the pool with all her clothes on which was very funny. Ty just likes to float so he stayed in the water until people started splashing too much. And we kept joking about how You're not even going to stay to play mermaids?? We were in the water for a while and then Antonio who had joined us was like huh do I have a group. And we're like do you have a group? And it turned out he did. And so he quickly changed and ran down to the climbing tower but his group was still 10 minutes late so it didn't even matter. But it was very funny that he forgot that he had a group. It was like a really healing swim. Just talking to my coworker so I really like and the water was perfect and I was just really happy. Things felt very good. I got a shower and it was a very good shower. And I really liked my romper that I put on afterwards and I just felt really good about everything. I was in a really nice mood.

I came back up here and read for a while. And then I took my book and I walked down to the lodge so I can wait for dinner.

I ended up just taking two rolls and then I couldn't eat any of the other food anyway because it all had onions in it so I just had scalloped potatoes in my rolls and talk to Cody for a few minutes but then it was too hot in there so I left.

I walked to the office and sat in front of their air conditioning unit and read my book for half an hour. I waited for the Kona ice guy to come. I wanted a snowball. I get them every Thursday and I wanted it right away. So I waited there after checking with Alexi if he was still coming. And I was there when a couple people happened to the door to drop off packages. I really am enjoying my book too. I'm almost done with only 60 pages left. And I really like saying that I finished 6 books so far this summer. Yes they are all under 200 pages but they are still books and I still read them. The next book I'm reading is much longer. So we'll see if I'm going to finish that in one go or if I'll do some short ones in between. I'm not really sure what the next one's about I just read a review about it that said it was a very good read so I'm going to try it. We'll see what happens.

I got my Kona ice though and I went up to the art building to chill in the hammock. Eventually Ty would come and join me and when he saw that I had a snowball he ran down to get one too and he also got pina colada and so we had a little moment. And soon CJ would join us. And she had kind of a hard day so it was really nice to all sit and talk together. There was definitely like moments where we were all trying to figure out how to have a conversation together because we've never done that but by the end it was really good and we talked about some of the weird stuff that's been happening in how especially staff has to stick together because we get othered so often here. And eventually CJ saw how beautiful the sunset was and she was like we should all go to the field and watch it and so we did and then we chased fireflies for a while and it was just beautiful little moment.

Eventually a camper was in the field who needed to be walked as a group so we all walk together to the council ring to drop her off for the talent show. And then we quickly ran away like literally ran away. And we were giggling and it was really silly. We will come back up to the art building and we sat for a while but then Ty was like he needed to go take a shower. So we said good night to him. And CJ stayed behind and she did her tarot cards while I read and We talked and it was just a really nice way to spend the evening. Though I was getting very tired and my social battery was a little low so once she finished her cards we had a big hug and then we said good night.

There were too many beetles in my building so I Left the doors open and went to use the nurse's bathroom and hope that the beetles would be gone. They were not. But the single calm down and they're not bumping into everything anymore.

Now I am and I am very much ready to go to sleep. I brushed my teeth and I am texting my James and I'm pretty comfortable and the temperature seems to be dropping. It's supposed to storm really bad tonight so I think I'm actually going to pull my headphones down just in case. Supposed to storm all day tomorrow too. So we'll see what happens with the day. I hope it's nice even if it's stormy and weird. I hope it's exciting. I hope that the kids are good and we all have a lot of fun. Sleep well everyone. Take care of yourself! Until next time.