#honor of kings lam

[faintrustle]

LAM's badass skin:

[stygiovictoria]

all of my favorite characters together...

[starmocha]

Listen. I don't even go here, but I would die for this man

[casbooks]

Books of 2023

Book 39 of 2023

Title: First In, Last Out: An American Paratrooper in Vietnam With the 101st and Vietnamese Airborne Authors: John Howard ISBN: 9780811766067 Tags: AC-130 Spectre, AUS ADF AA 1st Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR), AUS ADF AA Australian Army, AUS ADF Australian Defence Force, AUS Australia, B-52 Stratofortress, C-130 Hercules, CHE Geneva Conference of 1954 (French Indochina War), Cold War (1946-1991), CUB Cuba, CUB Cuban Missile Crisis, FAC, FRA ADT French Ground Army (Armée de terre), FRA ADT Groupement Mobile 100 (French Indochina War), FRA France, GER Berlin, GER Berlin - Checkpoint Charlie, GER Berlin Wall, GER Germany, GER Munich, KHM Cambodia, KHM Cambodian Incursion (1970) (Vietnam War), KOR Blue House Raid (1968), KOR Camp Greaves, KOR Freedom Bridge, KOR Imjin River, KOR Korea, KOR Korean War (1950-1953), KOR Munsan, KOR President Park Chung Hee, KOR ROK Capital Tiger Division, KOR ROK KATUSA Korean Augmentation to the US Army, KOR ROK Republic of Korea Army, KOR ROKMC Republic Of Korea Marine Corps, KOR UN UNC United Nations Command, KOR US USFK US Forces Korea, LAO FSB 31 (Lam Son 719) (Vietnam War), LAO Lam Son 719 (1971) (Vietnam War), LAO Laos, M113 APC, O-2 Skymaster, PHL Philippines, PHL US USAF Clark Air Force Base, PRK Kim Il Sung, PRK KPA 124th Army Unit, PRK KPA North Korean People's Army, PRK North Korea, SA-2 Guideline SAM, SA-7 Strela SAM, SAM, THA Bangkok, THA Bangkok - Nick's #1 Hungarian Inn, THA RTAFB Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, THA Thailand, U-2, UN United Nations, US Ambassador Maxwell Taylor, US Martin Luther King Jr (Civil Rights Leader), US MOH Medal of Honor, US MSTS Military Sea Transportation Service, US MSTS USNS General Leroy Eltinge (T-AP-154), US OH Kent State University, US OH Kent State University Shootings (1970) (Vietnam War), US OH Ohio, US President John F. Kennedy, US President John F. Kennedy Assassination - Dallas TX (1963), US President Lyndon B. Johnson, US President Richard M. Nixon, US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, US USA 101st Airborne Division - 1st Brigade, US USA 101st Airborne Division - 3rd Brigade, US USA 101st Airborne Division - Screaming Eagles, US USA 173rd Airborne Brigade - Sky Soldiers, US USA 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team, US USA 1st Cavalry Division, US USA 1st ID - 3rd Brigade, US USA 1st ID - Big Red One, US USA 23rd Infantry Regiment, US USA 23rd Infantry Regiment - 3/23, US USA 2nd ID, US USA 2nd Infantry Regiment, US USA 2nd Infantry Regiment - 2/2, US USA 327th Infantry Regiment, US USA 327th Infantry Regiment - 1/327, US USA 327th Infantry Regiment - 1/327 - A (ABU) Co, US USA 327th Infantry Regiment - 1/327 - B Co, US USA 327th Infantry Regiment - 1/327 - Tiger Force Recon, US USA 38th Infantry Regiment, US USA 38th Infantry Regiment - 2/38, US USA 502nd Aviation Bn, US USA 502nd Aviation Bn - A Co, US USA 502nd Infantry Regiment, US USA 502nd Infantry Regiment - 2/502, US USA 502nd Infantry Regiment - 2/502 - C Co, US USA 503rd Infantry Regiment, US USA 503rd Infantry Regiment - 1/503, US USA 503rd Infantry Regiment - 2/503, US USA 70th Engineer Bn, US USA 7th ID, US USA 8th Army, US USA 937th Engineer Group, US USA 9th Cavalry Regiment, US USA 9th Cavalry Regiment - 1/9 - F Troop, US USA 9th Cavalry Regiment - 1/9 - Headhunters, US USA Col David Hackworth, US USA Col Jack Jacobs (MOH), US USA Fort Benning GA, US USA Fort Benning GA - Airborne School, US USA Fort Benning GA - IOAC Infantry Officers Advanced Course, US USA Fort Benning GA - NCOCC NCO Candidate Course, US USA Fort Benning GA - Ranger School, US USA Fort Benning GA - US Army Infantry School, US USA Fort Campbell KY, US USA Fort Ord CA, US USA Fort Ord CA - USATC US Army Training Center, US USA General Barry McCaffrey, US USA General Charles H Bonesteel III, US USA General Creighton Abrams, US USA General Fred C. Weyand, US USA General Frederick Koresen, US USA General James A. Hollingsworth, US USA General John Guthrie, US USA General John Heintges, US USA General John McGiffert, US USA General John R. McGiffert, US USA General Normal Schwarzkopf, US USA General Ray Lynch, US USA General Thomas Kennan, US USA General Willard Pearson, US USA General William Coleman, US USA General William Enemark, US USA General William Westmoreland, US USA LRRP Team (Vietnam War), US USA United States Army, US USA USSF Green Berets, US USA USSF Special Forces, US USA USSF Team ODA-221, US USA USSF Team ODA-222, US USA Walter Reed Hospital, US USAF 21st TASS - Rash FAC, US USAF 21st TASS - Sundog FAC, US USAF United States Air Force, US USMC 3rd Marines - 3/3, US USMC United States Marine Corps, US USN NPS Naval Postgraduate School CA, US USN United States Navy, US USN USS Newport News (CA-148), US USN USS Pueblo (AGER 2), USMA West Point, USMA West Point - Camp Buckner, USSR, USSR 1st Secretary Nikita Khrushchev, USSR General Secretary of the Communist Party Leonid Brezhnev, VNM 1968 Tet Offensive (1968) (Vietnam War), VNM 1972 Easter Offensive / Nguyen Hue (1972) (Vietnam War), VNM An Khe, VNM An Loc, VNM An Ninh, VNM Assassination of Ngo Dinh Diem (1963) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of An Loc (1972) (1972 Easter Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Camp Holloway (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Dak To (1967) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Dien Bien Phu (1954) (French Indochina War), VNM Battle of Hue City (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Ia Drang Valley (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Saigon (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Tan Son Nhut (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Bien Hoa, VNM Binh Dinh Province, VNM Binh Long Province, VNM Buddhist Crisis (1963) (Vietnam War), VNM Cam Ranh Bay, VNM Camp Carroll (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Evans (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Holloway (Vietnam War), VNM Central Highlands, VNM Cham People, VNM Cholon, VNM Cholon - Binh Xuyen (Cholon Mafia), VNM Chon Thanh District, VNM Chu Lai, VNM Cua Viet River, VNM Cung Son Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Da Nang, VNM Dak To, VNM Di An, VNM DMZ Demilitarized Zone - 17th Parallel (Vietnam War), VNM Dong Ba Thin, VNM Dong Ba Thin Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Dong Tre, VNM Dong Tre Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM DRV Ho Chi Minh, VNM DRV NVA 320B Division, VNM DRV NVA 7th Division, VNM DRV NVA 95th Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 95th Regiment - 5th Bn, VNM DRV NVA Communist B2 Front, VNM DRV NVA General Tran Van Tra, VNM DRV NVA General Vo Nguyen Giap, VNM DRV NVA North Vietnamese Army, VNM DRV Party Secretary Le Duan, VNM DRV Politburo Central Military Committee, VNM DRV VC 5th Division, VNM DRV VC 9th Division, VNM DRV VC Viet Cong, VNM DRV VM Viet Minh, VNM Emperor Minh Manh, VNM FRA 1st Vietnamese Paratroop Bn (French Indochina War), VNM FRA French Expeditionary Corps (French Indochina War), VNM French Indochina War (1946-1954), VNM FSB Mai Loc (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Sarge (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Than Khai (Vietnam War), VNM Gulf of Tonkin Incident (1964) (Vietnam War), VNM Heiu Xuong District, VNM Highway 1, VNM Highway 13 - Thunder Road, VNM Highway 19, VNM Highway 9, VNM Hill 169, VNM Hill 65, VNM Hill 875, VNM Hue, VNM Hue - Le Huan St, VNM Hue - The Citadel, VNM I Corps (Vietnam War), VNM Ia Drang Valley, VNM II Corps (Vietnam War), VNM III Corps (Vietnam War), VNM IV Corps (Vietnam War), VNM Kontum, VNM Kontum Province, VNM Lai Khe, VNM Loc Ninh, VNM LZ Albany (Vietnam War), VNM LZ Sally (Vietnam War), VNM LZ X-Ray (Vietnam War), VNM Mekong Delta, VNM Montagnard, VNM My Canh, VNM My Chanh River, VNM My Lai, VNM My Lai Massacre (1968) (Vietnam War), VNM My Phu, VNM Nha Trang, VNM Nhon Co, VNM Ninh Thuan Province, VNM Operation Arc Light (1965-1973) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Checkerboard (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Dong Tien (1970) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Flaming Dart (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Hump (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Lam Son 72 (1972) (1972 Easter Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Linebacker I (1972) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Linebacker II (1972) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation MacArthur (1967-1969) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Sayonara (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Silver Bayonet I (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Van Buren (1965) (Vietnam War), VNM Phan Rang, VNM Phan Thiet, VNM Phu Bai, VNM Phu Sen, VNM Phu Yen Province, VNM Phung Ha, VNM Pleiku, VNM Quang Tri, VNM Quang Tri - Citadel, VNM Quang Tri Province, VNM Qui Nhon, VNM RVN ARVN 11th Airborne Bn, VNM RVN ARVN 15th Regiment, VNM RVN ARVN 18th ID, VNM RVN ARVN 1st ID, VNM RVN ARVN 20th Tank Regiment, VNM RVN ARVN 21st ID, VNM RVN ARVN 31st Regiment, VNM RVN ARVN 3rd ID, VNM RVN ARVN 56th Regiment, VNM RVN ARVN 5th Airborne Bn, VNM RVN ARVN 5th ID, VNM RVN ARVN 6th Airborne Bn, VNM RVN ARVN 8th Airborne Bn, VNM RVN ARVN 9th Airborne Bn, VNM RVN ARVN 9th ID, VNM RVN ARVN Airborne Division - Su-Doan Nhay Du, VNM RVN ARVN Army of the Republic of Vietnam, VNM RVN ARVN CIDG Civilian Irregular Defense Group, VNM RVN ARVN General Cao Van Vien, VNM RVN ARVN General Du Quoc Dong, VNM RVN ARVN General Hoang Xuan Lam, VNM RVN ARVN General Le Van Hung, VNM RVN ARVN General Ngo Quang Truong, VNM RVN ARVN General Nguyen Van Minh, VNM RVN ARVN General Vu Van Giai, VNM RVN Madame Nhu (Tran Le Xuan), VNM RVN Marines, VNM RVN Ngo Dinh Diem, VNM RVN Ngo Dinh Nhu, VNM RVN Nguyen Van Thieu, VNM RVN SVNAF Da Nang Airbase, VNM RVN SVNAF South Vietnamese Air Force, VNM Saigon, VNM Saigon - Missouri BOQ (Vietnam War), VNM Saigon - Pham Van Hai St, VNM Saigon - US Embassy (Vietnam War), VNM Srok Ton Cui, VNM Tan Khai, VNM Tan Son Nhut Air Base, VNM Tan Son Nhut Air Base - Camp Alpha (Vietnam War), VNM Thach Han River, VNM Thanh Binh, VNM Thanh Hoi, VNM Tuy Hoa, VNM US MAAG Military Assistance Advisory Group Vietnam (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV AAG Army Advisory Group (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV ADAT Advisory Team 162 (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV ADAT Airborne Division Assistance Team (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV Advisory Teams (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV BCAT Battalion Combat Assistance Teams (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV DCAT Division Combat Asisstant Team (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV FRAC First Regional Assistance Command (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV Military Assistance Command Vietnam (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV TRAC Third Regional Assistance Command (Vietnam War), VNM US Project 100000 (Vietnam War), VNM US USA 3rd Field Hospital - Saigon (Vietnam War), VNM US USA 85th Evacuation Hospital - Phu Bai (Vietnam War), VNM US USA 8th Field Hospital - Nha Trang (Vietnam War), VNM USA TF Hackworth (Vietnam War), VNM Vietnam, VNM Vietnam War (1955-1975), VNM Vung Tau, VNM War Zone D (Vietnam War), VNM Windy Hill Rating: ★★★★ (4 Stars) Subject: Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.ARVN.Airborne Division, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.Specops.LRRPs, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Advisor, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Infantry

Description: Fresh out of West Point, John Howard arrived for his first tour in Vietnam in 1965, the first full year of escalation when U.S. troop levels increased to 184,000 from 23,000 the year before. When he returned for a second tour in 1972, troop strength stood at 24,000 and would dwindle to a mere 50 the following year. He thus participated in the very early and very late stages of American military involvement in the Vietnam War. His two tours—one as a platoon commander and member of an elite counterguerrilla force, the second as a senior advisor to the South Vietnamese—provide a fascinating lens through which to view not only one soldier’s experience in Vietnam, but also the country’s. **

Review:   Let me first say that I did enjoy this book - to a degree. That's why it gets 4 stars. But it's important to know that this is not a great book, which with the authors experiences, it really could have been. One of the biggest deficiencies is that he spends more time telling than showing. Good books of this genre give you a first hand view of what happened and what someone experienced. This book is very light on that, especially during his 1965 tour. It gets better with his Korean and Advisor experiences later on, but only just. Instead you get a lot of history of Vietnam, a lot of history of what happened, who went where, what they did. It's all very strategic and 1000 foot level when what this book is supposed to be is very in the weeds at the 1 foot personal experience level. This is a man who participated in a lot of intense operations, worked with incredible people like Foley and Hackworth, and was both a part of ABU and Tiger Recon with the 101st. But you never really get a feel for what it was like to be a member of either. You never get to experience a recon mission, though he was a part of many. You just know that x unit moved to y place, and then this is what happened / this was the outcome. 

You get a good overview of the battles, the war, and even a few of the people, but very little else from his time with the 101st. 

His time in Korea is a bit better and gives you a good understanding of what happened and some incidents and the people. Also his time as an Advisor is also more personal as well. So maybe it's just a memory thing and things from 72 are easily recalled vs 65. 

One thing you'll notice is a lot of ring knocking and naming of generals... so many generals. So just... be prepared for that.  

Overall though, a decent book... he needs to work on the tell vs show more than anything. Up next, going to read Foley's Special Men. I always loved Foley's fictional writing, so I have high hopes for his book about his time with Tiger Recon and other units. I have a feeling it's going to be a good compliment to this book. 

[bittopup-inc]

How to Recharge Honor of Kings Global: A Complete Guide

Are you a fan of Honor of Kings Global and looking for a hassle-free way to recharge your tokens? Whether you're gearing up for intense battles or simply enhancing your gameplay experience, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the game and how to top up your account seamlessly using BitTopup.

What is Honor of Kings Global?

Honor of Kings Global is the international version of the immensely popular mobile MOBA game, Honor of Kings, originally developed by Tencent. This game has captivated millions of players worldwide with its strategic gameplay, diverse hero pool, and dynamic map designs. Players engage in 5v5 battles where the objective is to destroy the enemy's base while defending their own. The game offers a rich, competitive experience, making it a staple in the mobile gaming community.

Recently, the game has been expanding its reach globally, and with it, new content has been introduced. For example, the latest August 2024 update brought in exciting new features such as the introduction of Ziya, a powerful new mage hero who can reach up to level 25, and several martial arts-themed skins that celebrate different cultural fighting styles​(esports.gg,Esportsinsider).

How to Recharge Honor of Kings Tokens

Recharging your Honor of Kings Global account is a straightforward process, especially when using BitTopup. Follow these steps to ensure you never run out of tokens during crucial moments in your game:

Select the Desired Number of Tokens: Choose how many tokens you wish to purchase based on your needs.

Enter Your Player ID: This ID can be found by logging into your game, clicking on your avatar to go to your homepage, and then selecting "View UID" from the settings menu.

Complete Checkout: Use your preferred payment method to complete the transaction. Once the payment is confirmed, the tokens will be added to your account instantly.

Remember, first-time top-ups often come with bonuses, so it's a great opportunity to get extra tokens for your in-game purchases. For example, topping up 8000 tokens might give you an additional 1600 tokens as a bonus​(esports.gg).

User Reviews and Reception

Honor of Kings Global has received widespread acclaim for its balanced gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging content. Players appreciate the game's adherence to the classic MOBA formula while introducing unique elements that keep the experience fresh and exciting. Reviews highlight the game's accessibility for both new and experienced players, making it a top choice in the mobile MOBA genre​(Review Central Middle East).

However, some users have pointed out the steep learning curve for newcomers, especially in competitive modes. Despite this, the game's tutorial system and community support are often praised for helping new players get up to speed quickly.

Latest Events and Updates

August 2024 has been a busy month for Honor of Kings Global. In addition to the introduction of Ziya, several in-game events are currently running, offering players a chance to earn exclusive rewards. Here are a few highlights:

Mayene Skin Event (August 17-23): Earn martial tokens by completing daily tasks and exchange them for the Capoeirista Mayene skin.

Lam Skin Event (August 9-25): Players can bargain for the Pendekar Lam skin by logging in and inviting friends to join.

Lian Po Skin Event (August 16-30): Complete various in-game challenges to level up your hero and earn the Luchador Lian Po skin​(esports.gg).

Moreover, the Honor of Kings Championship 2024 is set to take place in Indonesia, featuring a massive $15 million prize pool. This event will conclude the 2024 Honor of Kings Global Invitational Series, which has seen intense competition from top teams worldwide​(Inven Global).

Whether you're looking to dominate in the latest events or just want to enjoy the game with some extra perks, recharging your Honor of Kings account has never been easier. Get started today with BitTopup and make the most of your gaming experience!

[insurgentepress]

Las Artes Marciales llegan a "Honor of Kings" con el lanzamiento de "All-Star Fighters Open"

Las Artes Marciales llegan a @HOKLATAM con el lanzamiento de la serie "All-Star Fighters Open" y un nuevo héroe, Ziya, llega al juego.

TeraGames / InsurgentePress, Ciudad de México.- Es hora de entrar en el ring y enfrentarse cara a cara en el más nuevo evento de Honor of Kings. A partir de hoy, los jugadores podrán seguir el viaje y la historia de Lian Po – Ascenso: Luchador, Mayene – Ascenso: Capoeirista o Lam – Ascenso: Pendekar mientras se preparan para el All-Star Fighters Open. All-Star Fighters Open Ambientado en el…

[twohitgames]

Honor of Kings: All-Star Fighters Open recibe nuevos modos

Es hora de subir al ring y competir en el último evento de Honor of Kings: All-Star Fighters Open. A partir de hoy, los jugadores podrán seguir su camino y descubrir la historia de Mayene, Lian Po y Lam mientras se preparan para el All-Star Fighters Open. Ambientado dentro del universo de Honor of Kings, el torneo de fantasía AFO reúne a los mejores luchadores de las diferentes disciplinas de las…

[ulkaralakbarova]

Ip Man’s peaceful life in Foshan changes after Gong Yutian seeks an heir for his family in Southern China. Ip Man then meets Gong Er who challenges him for the sake of regaining her family’s honor. After the Second Sino-Japanese War, Ip Man moves to Hong Kong and struggles to provide for his family. In the mean time, Gong Er chooses the path of vengeance after her father was killed by Ma San. Credits: TheMovieDb. Film Cast: Ip Man: Tony Leung Chiu-wai Gong Er: Zhang Ziyi Razor: Chang Chen Ding Lianshan: Zhao Benshan San Jiang Shui: Xiao Shenyang Zhang Yongcheng: Song Hye-kyo Master Gong Yutian: Wang Qingxiang Ma San: Jin Zhang Jiang: Shang Tielong Gong Er Di Zi: Song Tao Uncle Deng: Lo Hoi-pang Iron Shoes: Cung Le Gong Clan Elder: King Shih-Chieh Chan Wah-shun: Yuen Woo-ping Master Yong: Lau Ga-Yung Master Rui: Shun Lau Primo: Julian Cheung Sister San: Zhou Xiaofei Brother Sau: Berg Ng Dark Spirit: Lo Meng Gong Er Stand-in: Fang Chengcheng Women of the Gold Pavilion: Jeana Ho Young Gong Er: Wu Yixuan Gong Clan Elder: George Wang Mr. Hung: Elvis Tsui Kam-Kong Master Ba: Wang Man-Cheng Cho Man: Cho Man-Keung Brother Ping: Siu Ping-lam Foshan Martial Artist: Tony Ling Chi-Wah Peking Opera Singer: Li Jing Brother Shui: Water Hung Funeral Procession Leader: Tong Han Ma San’s Disciple: Ni Haifeng Gold Pavilion Client: Yuen Cheung-Yan Razor’s Disciple: Yin Chunxiong Zhang Yongcheng (voice): Charlie Yeung …: Benz Kong To-Hoi Film Crew: Screenplay: Wong Kar-wai Director of Photography: Philippe Le Sourd Original Music Composer: Shigeru Umebayashi Producer: Jacky Pang Music: Nathaniel Méchaly Compositors: Erik Classen Screenplay: Xu Haofeng Executive Producer: Dai Song Executive Producer: Chan Ye-cheng Martial Arts Choreographer: Yuen Woo-ping Executive Producer: Megan Ellison Co-Producer: Cheung Hong-Tat Co-Producer: Ng See-Yuen Story Consultant: Ip Chun Co-Producer: Ren Yue Music Consultant: Steve Macklam Co-Producer: Michael J. Werner Screenplay: Zou Jingzhi Makeup Artist: Kwan Lee-na Associate Producer: Johnnie Kong Art Direction: William Chang Suk-Ping Art Direction: Alfred Yau Wai-Ming Costume Design: Shandy Lui Fung-Shan Movie Reviews: CinemaSerf: I’m a fan of Wong Kar-Wai’s films but I reckon that I still prefer Wilson Yip’s 2008 version of the Ip Man story. Set amidst the turbulent times in China that saw the end of the rule of Manchu dynasty, the embryonic republic established and then the Japanese invasion, we meet a man (Tony Leung) who lives peacefully in the small town of Foshan until he meets Wing Chun grand master Gong Yutian (Qingxiang Wang) who is looking for a successor. That is the beginning of a journey that will see him become a grand master of the martial art himself, whilst meeting, marrying and surviving! It’s a superb looking film but for me just a little too over-stylised. The combat scenes are creatively choreographed but the use of the slowed-down visual effects didn’t always work. Leung and the director are clearly on the same wavelength, and the story itself is a fascinating look at the rise of one culture through the wreckage of an ancient one. It’s also clear that women too had their place in this society – and it wasn’t always where stereotype might assume. A strong contribution from the adept and nimble Ziyi Zhang (Gong Er) demonstrates that well as battle lines between the old and new, the powerful and the aspirational are drawn and a good old dose of ancient tribal warfare sets up a proud story of heritage, loyalty and skill. Though a little soporifically scored at times, this is an enjoyable mix of history with touch of romance and plenty of action, and is well worth a couple of hours.

[wheretheweirdthingsaree]

Wiman Phaya Tan – A Giant Toad Museum in Yasothon Public Park, Thailand:

Appearance:

Picture a 19-meter-high toad perched near a lake, its gaze fixed on the surroundings. But here’s the twist: You can actually walk inside the toad and

enjoy the view from an opening in its mouth!

Unique Design:

This museum is the world’s first toad-shaped museum. It’s a giant four-story creature with a total usage space of 835 square meters. The toad honors the Toad King, a central character in the myth behind the famous Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival).

Free Admission:

The best part? It won’t cost you a dime! Entrance is completely free. Just head to the small carpark in front of the Naga serpent (another intriguing feature) for convenient parking.

Educational Purpose:

The museum serves as a learning center for children. Visitors can explore different species of toads, their importance in biodiversity, and their role in the food chain. It also shares the captivating story of Phraya Khan Khak, the Toad Prince who battled against Phraya Thaen (the Rain God) to end a drought during the rice-growing season.

Inside the Toad: Venture into the toad’s belly to learn about amphibians, their life cycles, global distributions, and ecosystem benefits. Then take the elevator to the toad’s mouth for a scenic view of the Lam Thuan Reservoir.

Phaya Naga Museum:

Adjacent to the toad, you’ll spot the Phaya Naga Museum, shaped like a naga serpent. While it was closed during our visit, it promises cool 3D artwork.

[hthgaming]

Lam is a hero in Honor of Kings. #hthgaming

[stygiovictoria]

somewhere safe

[go-redgirl]

31 Hollywood Icons Who Served in the U.S. Military

On this Memorial Day, millions of Americans across the country are honoring our military heroes, observing, and reflected on those who made the ultimate sacrifice. This list highlights some of the actors, directors, singers, producers, and entertainers who’ve served in the U.S. military.

From Hollywood’s earliest days, artists have served in the U.S. armed forces. Some had broader experiences than others in service to the country And many Hollywood greats served in World War II.

Jimmy Stewart

James Stewart not only joined the US Air Force in 1941, he ended his service in 1968 as a Brigadier General in the USAF Reserves. Stewart’s service was not for show, either. He flew many bombing missions over Germany and Nazi-occupied Europe.

Kirk Douglas

The famed movie tough guy joined the US Navy in 1941 and served as a communications officer in anti-submarine warfare. He received a medical discharge thanks to war injuries in 1944.

Clark Gable

Though he was already a veritable old man in soldier years, Gable joined the U.S. Army Air Corp at 43 and few five combat missions as an observer-gunner. Gable joined after his wife, Carol Lombard, died in a plane crash while flying home after a tour to promote war bonds.

Audie Murphy

Maj. Audie Murphy went into the Army as a private and won many battle field promotions. He is one of the most widely decorated actors in Hollywood history. He is the only actor/celebrity to be awarded the Congressional Medal Of Honor. In addition, he was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, a Legion of Merit with Combat V, and two Bronze Stars with Combat V. He also received several foreign awards were especially impressive. He received the French Forrager, Legion of Honor, and Croix de Guerre with Palm and Silver Star, and the Belgian Croix de Guerre 1940 with Palm.

Other stars of the era who served include Jason Robards (Navy 1941), Paul Newman (Navy, 1943), and Mel Brooks (Army, 1944). Then there was singer and dancer Josephine Baker who was a secret collaborator with the French Resistance to the Nazi invaders and was even awarded the Croix de Guerre as a spy for her work to defeat the Nazis. Several others served in the forces of their native nations including David Niven (Royal Army), Sir Alec Guinness (Royal Navy), and Audrey Hepburn (Dutch Resistance), and Star TrekActor James Doohan (Royal Canadian Army). Doohan was part of the D-Day invasion forces, was wounded six times losing a finger in the process, and later joined the Canadian Air Force as a pilot.

Ronald Reagan

Our 40th president, Ronald Reagan, was already a star when he joined the war effort. He served in the Army Air Force during World War II, enlisting in the Army Enlisted Reserve on 29 April 1937 and ordered to active duty on April 19, 1942. Because of his eyesight, he was not assigned to an air crew and instead helped make over 400 training films for the Army Air Force.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier, the first black American to win an Academy Award, enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II in November of 1943. He served as a physiotherapist for almost a year, even though he lied about his age, as he was only 16 when he joined.

B.B. King

B.B. King, one of the greatest blues guitarists, was inducted into the U.S. Army in 1944, but was quickly released back into civilian life following boot camp because the government deemed his original profession — a tractor-trailer driver — to be vital to the war economy.

Hugh Hefner

Later to be known as the swinger editor of Playboy Magazine, Hugh Hefner joined the U.S. Army in 1944 after graduating high school. Hef didn’t see any acton, though, and was discharged in 1946 after serving as an Amy newspaperman and infantry clerk.

Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett, the legendary “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” crooner, was drafted during World War II in 1944 and assigned to the 63rd Infantry Division, or “Blood and Fire” division, fighting in France and Germany. Being a “replacement” was not an easy job as the war was winding down in Europe. About half these soldiers died in the months after basic training in 1944 and the end of the war in Europe in Sept. of 1945.

After the big war, many others continued the tradition, of course.

Gene Hackman

The actor, who won an Academy Award for Best Actor in The French Connection, enlisted in the Marine Corps the year after World War Two ended in1946. He lied about his age to get accepted, as he was only 16 when he enlisted.

Willie Nelson

The Always On My Mind singer volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1950. However, he only served nine months and was given a medical discharge due to severe back problems.

Johnny Cash

Johnny “The Man In Black” Cash enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950. After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base and technical training at Brooks Air Force Base, both in San Antonio, Texas, he was assigned to the 12th Radio Squadron Mobile of the U.S. Air Force Security Service at Landsberg, West Germany. He mustered out in 1954.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood was drafted in 1951 for service during the Korean War. Eastwood saw no action, though, and spent his service at Ft. Ord in California, where he was appointed as a lifeguard and projectionist of training films.

David Janssen

Perhaps best known as the man on the lam in the 60s TV series, The Fugitive, Janssen didn’t escape the U.S. Army having served from 1952 to 1954 at Fort Ord, California. He saw no action during the Korean War as he served in the entertainment division during his two-year stint.

Martin Milner

Like his army pals Clint Eastwood and David Janssen, Adam 12 star Martin Milner served a two-year stint in the Army and was based at Fort Ord, California. Also like his buddies Eastwood and Janssen, there he worked in the entertainment sector. He mustered out in 1954 and went right into TV and film work in Hollywood.

Robert Duvall

Robert Duvall enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating from Principia College in 1953. Duvall has disputed early biographies that claimed he fought during the Korean War, though. He has joked that he “barely qualified” with his M-1 rifle in basic training. He served two years, and never got past the rank of private first class.

Leonard Nimoy

Later to become famous as Star Trek’s half human, half alien Mr Spock, Leonard Nimoy enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve at Fort McPherson, Georgia. He served for 18 months between 1953 and 1955. Nimoy also worked in the Army’s Special Services narrating plays and performing in training films.

James Earl Jones

The voice of Star Wars villain Darth Vader, a man who has been referred to as “one of the greatest actors in American history,” served in the Army during the Korean War, rising to the rank of first lieutenant. Jones missed the war, though, as he started his service in 1953 just as the war was coming to a close.

Alan Alda

Best known for playing an Army surgeon in the TV series M.A.S.H., Alda did serve in the actual military when he volunteered after finishing his studies at Fordham University. He served as a gunnery officer during a six-month tour of duty in the Korean War.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman turned down a scholarship for acting and instead joined the Air Force in which he served from 1955 to 1959. He served as a radar technician and mustered out as an Airman 1st Class. Freeman has said that he enjoyed his service experience until, that is, he was being scouted to be trained as a jet pilot. He said the reality that war means killing dawned on him at that time and he began to look for the exit door to get back to life as an actor.

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s drafting in 1957 was huge news and the media followed him throughout his years of service. Elvis honorably served his term and mustered out as a sergeant in 1960.

Chuck Norris

Famed martial artist Chuck Norris joined the U.S. Air Force in 1958 and served his full term, being discharged in 1962. He was ultimately assigned to Osan Air Base in South Korea where he began to develop his signature martial arts style, Chun Kuk Do.

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix had a bit less gratifying service having been forced into the Army or face jail time for car theft in 1961. He served only one year before being discharged for an ankle injury. Some researchers suggest that the injury was just the Army’s excuse to be rid of the troublesome rocker.

John Fogerty

Singer-songwriter John Fogerty joined up in 1966 when his draft number neared. He signed up for the United States Army Reserve as a supply clerk. However, he was switched to active duty for six months, anyway, but saw no service under fire. He was discharged honorably in 1968.

Tom Selleck

Tom Selleck was already an actor when he was drafted during the Vietnam War in 1967. He served six years in the the 160th infantry regiment of the California National Guard.

Oliver Stone

The famed director of Platoon served during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968 and was wounded twice. He earned the The Bronze Star with V’device and a Purple Heart with one Oak Leaf Cluster.

Pat Sajak

Pat Sajak volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1968. While he saw no battlefield action in Vietnam, Sajak did serve as an Army Radio disc jockey and ended up in country, anyway, when he was assigned to host a radio program on Armed Force Radio broadcasting in Saigon.

R. Lee Ernmey

Everyone knows R. Lee Ermey as the intense drill sergeant in Full Metal Jacket, but some may not know that he served in the Marines for a decade, was a real Drill Instructor, and saw service in Vietnam in 1968. He started out as a Repair Shop Mechanic and went on to earn the Good Conduct Medal (x2); the National Defense Service Medal; the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star; the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device; the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit; Meritorious Unit; the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; and a Meritorious Unit Citation.

Ice-T

Musician, songwriter, and rapper Tracy Lauren Marrow — better known in the music scene as Ice-T and also for his long-running starring role on TV’s Law & Order SVU — joined the U.S. Army in 1979 after graduating high school. He served the 25th Infantry Division for four years.

Drew Carey

TV funny man and game show host Drew Carey served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves starting in 1980. He was honorably discharged in 1986 and he says that he adopted the Marines crew cut and horn-rimmed glasses as his trademark look due to his service.

Adam Driver

Adam Driver, who found fame as Kylo Ren in the Star Wars series, joined the U.S. Marines shortly after the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. He was briefly assigned to the Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, before being medically discharged due to an injury.

Follow Warner Todd Huston on Facebook at: facebook.com/Warner.Todd.Huston.

EntertainmentNational SecurityMemorial Day

[casbooks]

Books of 2023

Book 46 of 2023

Title: Farewell, Ham Tan Arty: An Artilleryman's Journal During the Vietnam War Drawdown Authors: Gerald Herter ISBN: 9798985051223 Tags: AC-119G Shadow, AUS ADF AA Australian Army, AUS ADF Australian Defence Force, CHN China, CHN Hong Kong, FAC, FRA France, FRA Paris, GBR RN Royal Navy, GBR United Kingdom, GER Bad Kreuznach, GER Frankfurt, GER Germany, GER Oberammergau, GER USA Baumholder Base, GER USAF Rhein-Main Air Base, HKG Hong Kong, HKG Hong Kong - China Fleet Club, HKG Hong Kong - Chinese Theater Restaurant, HKG Hong Kong - Gaddi's Restaurant, HKG Hong Kong - Grand Hotel, HKG Hong Kong - Hilton Hotel, HKG Hong Kong - Jimmy's Kitchen Restaurant, HKG Hong Kong - Juno's Revolving Restaurant, HKG Hong Kong - Kowloon, HKG Hong Kong - Mandarin Hotel, HKG Hong Kong - RN Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, HKG Hong Kong - Victoria Peak, KHM Cambodia, KHM Cambodian Civil War (1967-1975), KHM Cambodian Incursion (1970) (Vietnam War), KHM General Lon Nol, KHM King & President Norodom Sihanouk, KHM Phnom Penh, LAO Lam Son 719 (1971) (Vietnam War), LAO Laos, LAO Laotian Civil War (1959-1975), M109 Paladin, O-1 Bird Dog, THA Ayutthaya, THA Bangkok, THA Thailand, US Bob Hope (Entertainer), US CIA Central Intelligence Agency, US MOH Medal of Honor, US State Department, US USA 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment - Blackhorse, US USA 12th Artillery Regiment, US USA 12th Artillery Regiment - 2/12, US USA 12th Artillery Regiment - 2/12 - A Batt, US USA 16th Artillery Regiment, US USA 16th Artillery Regiment - 7/16, US USA 1st Cavalry Division, US USA 1st Cavalry Division - 3rd Brigade, US USA 21st Artillery Regiment, US USA 21st Artillery Regiment - 1/21, US USA 23rd Artiller Group, US USA 25th ID, US USA 2nd Artillery Regiment, US USA 2nd Artillery Regiment - 1/2, US USA 35th Artillery Regiment, US USA 35th Artillery Regiment - 2/35, US USA 42nd Artillery Regiment, US USA 42nd Artillery Regiment - 5/42, US USA 42nd Artillery Regiment - 5/42 - A Batt, US USA 42nd Artillery Regiment - 5/42 - B Batt, US USA 42nd Artillery Regiment - 5/42 - C Batt, US USA 83rd Artillery Regiment, US USA 83rd Artillery Regiment - 5/83, US USA 8th ID, US USA 90th Replacement Bn, US USA 92nd Artillery Regiment, US USA 92nd Artillery Regiment - 1/92, US USA 92nd Artillery Regiment - 1/92 - A Batt, US USA ASA Army Security Agency, US USA Fort Benning GA, US USA Fort Riley KS, US USA Fort Sill OK, US USA Fort Sill OK - OBC Officer Basic Course, US USA LNO Army Liason Officer, US USA LRRP Team (Vietnam War), US USA Lt Brian Thacker (MOH), US USA United States Army, US USA USAEUR United States Army Europe, US USA USAEUR V Corps, US USA USSF 1st SFG, US USA USSF Green Berets, US USA USSF Special Forces, US USN United States Navy, US USN USS Lloyd Thomas (DD-764), US USO United Service Organizations, US WI University of Wisconsin, US WI University of Wisconsin - ROTC, US WI Wisconsin, USAID, VNM ADF AA 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF) (Vietnam War), VNM ARVN TF 302nd Bn, VNM ARVN TF Territorial Forces, VNM Assassination of Ngo Dinh Diem (1963) (Vietnam War), VNM Bao Tan, VNM Bearcat Base / Long Thanh North Airfield (Vietnam War), VNM Bien Hoa, VNM Bien Hoa Air Base (Vietnam War), VNM Binh Thuy, VNM CIA Air America (1950-1976) (Vietnam War), VNM Cu Chi, VNM Dak To, VNM Di An, VNM DRV NVA MR7 HQ, VNM DRV NVA North Vietnamese Army, VNM DRV VC Viet Cong, VNM FSB 6 (Hill 1001) (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Apache (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Blackhorse (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Concord (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Deeble (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Dora (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Flower (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Husky (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Intrepid (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Joni / Flower (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Karen (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Mace (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Michelle (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Nancy (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Oldham (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Riviera (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Simmons (Vietnam War), VNM FSB Sylvia (Vietnam War), VNM Ham Tan, VNM Hiep An, VNM Hill 1001, VNM Ho Chi Minh Trail (Vietnam War), VNM III Corps (Vietnam War), VNM Lagi, VNM Lang Vei, VNM Lang Vei Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Long Binh Post - Camp Price, VNM Long Binh Post - Plantation - II Field Force HQ (Vietnam War), VNM Long Binh Post (Vietnam War), VNM Long Hai, VNM Long Hai Mountains, VNM Long Khanh Province, VNM My Lai Massacre (1968) (Vietnam War), VNM Nui Be, VNM Nui Chui Chan, VNM Nui Dat, VNM Nui Nhon, VNM Nui Ong, VNM Nui Ta Kou, VNM Operation Snoopy (People Sniffer) (Vietnam War), VNM Paris Peace Accords (1973) (Vietnam War), VNM Phan Thiet, VNM Phu Loi, VNM Phuoc Tho, VNM Phuoc Tuy Province, VNM RVN ARVN 18th ID, VNM RVN ARVN Army of the Republic of Vietnam, VNM RVN ARVN General Do Cao Tri, VNM RVN ARVN RF/PF 177th RF Co (Vietnam War), VNM RVN ARVN RF/PF Regional Forces/Popular Forces (Vietnam War), VNM RVN ARVN Vietnamese Rangers - Biet Dong Quan, VNM RVN Chieu Hoi Program/Force 66 - Luc Luong 66 (Vietnam War), VNM RVN General Duong Van Minh (Big Minh), VNM RVN Ngo Dinh Diem, VNM RVN Ngo Dinh Nhu, VNM RVN Nguyen Van Thieu, VNM Tam Tam, VNM Tan Linh, VNM Tan Ly, VNM Tan Ly - PF Outpost, VNM Tan Son Nhut Air Base, VNM US MACV Advisory Teams (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV CORDS Civil Operations and Revolutionary Development Support (1967-1975) (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV Military Assistance Command Vietnam (Vietnam War), VNM US MACV TRAC Third Regional Assistance Command (Vietnam War), VNM US USA II Field Force (1966-1971) (Vietnam War), VNM US USA Phu Loi Air Base (Vietnam War), VNM US USMC KSCB Khe Sanh Combat Base (Vietnam War), VNM Vietnam, VNM Vietnam War (1955-1975), VNM Vung Tau, VNM Xuan Loc Rating: ★★★ (3 Stars) Subject: Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Advisor, Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Artillery

Description: Experience firsthand as an artilleryman maneuvers the complexities of the Vietnam war. Today's college senior may face the daunting challenges of mountainous student debt and questionable job prospects, but not the horrific predicament a male student of the 1960's confronted with the military draft and imminent deployment to fight a deadly and thankless war in Vietnam. FAREWELL, HAM TAN ARTY, An Artilleryman's Journal during the Vietnam War Drawdown, follows as a student contemplates the options: flee to Canada, seek special favors to avoid serving, or answer his country's call. Much has been written of battles, heroic actions, and fatal political blunders. But what about the average young person pursuing the daily tasks of life?amidst a campus torn by anti-war protests,?through dehumanizing training in the sweltering heat of a Georgia summer,?playing at war in the former Nazi camps of Germany,?then finally on the ground in Vietnam,hoping to survive while carrying out orders from distant generals, and calming the fears of loved ones back home. An artillery officer's experiences, advancing from fire bases to province headquarters, speak out from a dust-stained journal, next to letters home nuanced to soften depictions of the dangers of the war zone that lay hidden between the lines. Transcend the sensationalism of war to contemplate how relationships were maintained with loved ones so far away, and the importance of those connections for boosting morale and fostering hope for the future. Whether through letters written, "Care" packages received, or a remote MARS radiophone call to a mother on Christmas Eve from deep within the distant combat zone of Vietnam, the feelings expressed melt away the miles, at least for a moment. Join with the soldier as his lifechanging decisions come to life on the pages of his journal.

Review: Meh - It was an ok-ish book but really not worth bothering with. He spends more time talking about care packages and his taxes than anything else.

[all-theimaginess]

We’re Inevitable - Part Four

Fandom: Newsies Pairing: eventual Davey x reader Word Count: ~1,500 Tag List: @races-cigar @theresagoodchanceicouldfly  @the-navistar-carol @tillthyendofthyline  A/N: Hey everyone! I’m back from the void. I hope you all like this new chapter. Please let me know what you think. I would love to hear it. Sorry for its delay 

Part One + Part Two + Part Three  

The world seemed to freeze in the time that it took you to comprehend what Race said. Composing yourself, you spoke with a slight sense of urgency, “What do you need me to do? How are we gettin’ him out?”

Race took the cigar out of his mouth and fidgeted with it for a moment. “There ain’t nothin’ we can do right now. With the strike started, Synder’s on alert. He’ll be waitin’ for one of us to spring Crutchie.” With his free hand, he adjusted his hat. Visibly conflicted, Race pursed his lips before putting his cigar back in his mouth.“I hate it, but we needs to lay low. The safest place for him is the refuge.”

“Does Jack know?” Your mind was running a million miles a minute. If Jack knew, then he would more than likely be making a plan to save Crutchie.

You could see the feeling of defeat flood his expression. “I’m not for sure, but I think so,” he said with a frown, “There’s another thing I had to tell ya. I tried to find Jack, with no luck.. He wasn’t at his penthouse or the lodging house. I thought he might be here, but...”

Davey’s back straightened and you wiped your clammy hands on your skirt. Jack wouldn’t just disappear without making sure that you were alright, you were sure of it. “You woulda heard if he was taken, right?”

Race nodded, “Yeah, but I ain’t heard nothin’.”

You looked over at Davey to see how he was taking things. It looked like things were stewing in his mind while he stayed calm and connected. “If he knows and hasn’t been caught, maybe he just needs some time to cool off,” you suggested, glancing around the space the three of you were occupying. “He’ll come around, just give him a little time to think.”

“I’ll let you know if I smell smoke.” Race retorted

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

“Morning Gentlemen,” Katherine greeted, “Would you get a load of these glum mugs... Could these really be the same boys who made front page of the New York Sun?”

All of the boys jumped out of their seats to see the proof. You slowly stood with a genuine smile, and walked over to the side of the center table. ‘Newsies Stop the World,’ You heard Mush proclaim. It’s a catchy title, and Katherine had made good on her promise just like she said she would. The boys’ exclamations all made you smile even bigger.

Racetrack eagerly showed you the paper when he got his hands back on it. They really made the front page, and above the fold. You smiled down at the photo which had you between Davey and Racetrack. Your smile lessened when your gaze fell on the Jack in the picture.

‘Just give him a little time.’ That was what you told Davey and Race before they left Medda’s the day before. You wished that Jack could be here to revel in this with the rest of the newsies of Lower Manhattan. He would’ve loved it. You smiled back at Race, not wanting to spoil anyone’s moment.

You made your way next to Davey as you heard Albert telling Katherine what he heard. “Ah the Delanceys are spreadin a story, that he took it on the lam first sight of the cops.”

You openly frowned at this, of course that’s what the Delancey’s would do. Anything to discredit the cause.Then you saw Les dart forward, “Jack don’t run from no fight.” The confidence that Les had in Jack made your heart swell, and you couldn’t help the smile that you gave Les as you and Davey gently usher him away from Albert.

After a few minutes, Race strutted over to you. Davey and Les were animatedly talking to other newsies while you sat on one of the tables taking everything in.Your focus quickly turned to the overly confident Racetrack Higgins.You smirked, “Well, well, well, if it ain't one of the Kings of New York himself. I’m honored.”

Racetrack chuckled warmly, “The honor is truly mine,” he then paused to give an over the top bow. “I just came to see what a lovely girl like you is doin’ sitting by her lonesome. And, to see if I could offer you some company.”

“How noble,” you smiled and patted the spot next to you on the table.

Race smiled and hopped up onto the table, positioning himself very close to you. As he turned his gaze to you, he noticed that your attention was across the deli, on Davey. Race pondered this, his eyebrows furrowing for a second. He then trained his expression to one of nonchalance and  took the cigar from the corner of his mouth. “Davey, huh?” He asked, leaning into you slightly.

You froze, “I got no clue what you’re talking about.”

“Uh-huh, sure. I saw you two at Medda’s. Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t think I am. I’ve known you a long time, and you’se gonna have to lie better than that if you wanna keep this from your brother, assuming he don’t already know,” he replied knowingly. There was something in his expression that you couldn’t place.

You shook your head. “He doesn’t. To be fair though, things have been a little crazy around here.. I thought I’d tell him after the strike, or when I figured out my feelings and Davey’s, but now no one knows where Jack is.”

Race put his arm around you. “I know, It’s been a crazy time for all of us. Things are changing, possibly in our favor. We’ll find Jack, it’ll all work out,” he reassured. There was a momentary pause before Race continued,“You deserve to be happy Thimble, and he would be lucky to have you as his girl. Any of us would.” Race looked away for a moment before returning his gaze to you. “Besides, I’m almost certain Davey-boy over there has been watching us,” he gave you a knowing smile. “Or more likely, you.” His grip around your shoulders tightened slightly.

You smiled and leaned into him more. “Thanks Race.”

“You’se welcome.” Race said with a bright smile, pulling you into a hug and putting the cigar back in the corner of his mouth with a smirk. He leaned back slightly, bracing himself on his hands. “Well, are you’se gonna go talk to him?”

You started to maneuver yourself off of the table. “Actually, I should probably get back to the theater. I have some costumes that need mending.”

Race nodded, “See ya later, Thimble.”

As you said goodbye to the other newsies, Davey politely excused himself from a conversation with Finch with a, ‘meet you there,’ and made his way to you. “On your way to Medda’s?” He asked, continuing after you nod, “The circulation gate’s gonna be opening soon. I think the fellas and I are gonna go down there and see what’s goin’ on. Wanna take a detour? And then of course, I could walk you to Medda’s."

You thought for a moment, “I would like that,” you grinned. A little detour wouldn’t hurt. Besides, you would take all of the time with Davey that you could. Davey seemed to relax with your answer.

It was a short amount of time before Davey spoke again, “So, I got a question for you.”

Your heartbeat raced with the possibilities and you tried to remain calm. “And what would that be?”

Davey looked across the street, avoiding your eye contact for a moment. “I’m curious, and you can tell me that it’s none of my business, but.. Uhm, what’s the story between you and Race?”

You blinked at him in non comprehension for a few seconds. Your brain scrambled for information as you and Davey continued to walk. How could you explain your relationship with Race to him? Racetrack was one of your best friends, who had also been your first crush, and your first kiss but that was half a year ago. It didn’t end up changing anything, so what’s past is past.

“Race and I?” You pause for a second, “We’re just close friends who have known each other a long time.. Why?”

Davey shrugged and looked away, “I was just curious, like I said. He heard anything about Jack?” His facial expressions were still partially guarded.

You shook your head as the “The World” gate soon came into view. “I’ll wait by the gate for you,” you said right before you reached it.

Davey turned to you once more and leaned in slightly. “I won’t be too long, alright?” You nodded and leaned against the gate,watching as Davey and the other newsies lined up for papers.

Davey ended up being close to the front of the line. His expression was serious as he eyed Wiesel. Many of the boys were waiting in anticipation to see what would happen next. As Davey drew closer to Wiesel, you noticed Davey and Wiesel’s expressions both change slightly. Then, Davey nodded defiantly to the other newsies and walked away, not looking behind to see a lot of newsies follow him.

[diveronarpg]

In fair Verona, our tale begins with OLIVIO RIVERA, who is FORTY ONE years old. He is often called OBERON by the CAPULETS and works as their INITIATE. He uses HE/HIM pronouns.

Have you ever felt like you were PLUCKED from a world -- a wild world, a beautiful world -- and placed into another, where you knew not the language nor the customs but they demanded that you manage all the same? The world that Olivio believes he was birthed from was a wild one, where debauchery and comradery permeate the heavy summer air, and glory abounds in the form of grand adventures and tales where Death is a mere kiss away. Sometimes, when he lays his head to rest at night he can practically taste it; the overgrown greenery that saturates the air with the heady fumes of milkmaids and wild daffodils, rich, RIPE wine coating his tongue. Instead, he was born into a world that was far less glorious and romantic; upon the doorsteps of Rivera family he was placed, ushered into their villa in the arms of a hapless maid with a bleeding heart. Ever the ones to jump on an opportunity to preen under a philanthropic spotlight, they claimed him as one of their own -- though, throughout the years he has made it quite clear that he wishes they hadn’t. Vapid, bickering siblings -- frigid, bigoted parents. It was a far cry from warmth and COMRADERY that he longed for. But he wasn’t one to sit idle, wasn’t one to let the world go by untouched. If he could not belong to this world, then the world would then be razed, remade, and reshaped. It would soon belong to him.

His parents sent him off with little fanfare, his siblings not so much as blinking when he said his goodbyes. To the Escuela Naval Militar they sent him, the finest naval academy in all of Spain -- but little did they know that such schooling would make him far more of a force to be reckoned with. In primary and secondary school he had created his own little KINGDOM with his own little court, a round table of children who mirrored his ideals -- who longed for that comradery and the world that they had been robbed of. His reach began to extend so far out that others began to seek him out, the BOY-KING that could promise safety from the hands of their abusers and odd jobs that were better done at night. They were the feral, reckless few -- devils of the night that brought about fixings of white-powdery decadence and dreamy little tabs that melted on the tongue. His education at the military academy only made his mind a SHARPER weapon, tweaked and fixed his strategy until every decision he made was iron-clad, every word he gave never to be contended with. His parents sought to take away the power that he had -- had hoped to take away his spirit and break it, but they had underestimated how Fate favored him and the power that he had. Though he did not demand it, Olivio brought the people of the world to their knees. They were ready for him to raze, remake, and reshape the world that they once knew; they cried out for him to remake it in his name.

His discharge could never be anything less than HONORABLE, not with the weight of the name that he carried. The people loved him, but the world was still not the one that he longed for, the world that he came from, so his restlessness grew until he could bear it no longer. That is when he began to play his little game. The kingdom that he had built for himself in Spain was coveted, often by those closest to him. It did not take much to undo the tight bonds of brotherhood he had created -- a little word here, a well-tailored piece of GOSSIP there. Those who considered themselves his brothers-in-arms rebelled against him, thinking themselves greater together than whatever power he might manage to wield. And he let them rebel, let them think that this was the grand beginning of a revolution. But then he reminded them, making an example out of the leader of a COUP, how bloody and ruthless their self-made king could be. With their tails tucked between their legs, they bowed their heads and let him leave his kingdom gracefully, too cowed to think of haunting his steps. He wandered, lost and looking for his world -- stumbling into it by happenstance.

His former clientele had whispered of VERONA, half a hell and half a dream. He had not intended to find it until Fate itself dragged him there, coaxing him with its whispered tales of gore and glory. One night in the famed city and he was practically drunk on the danger and debauchery that occurred nightly on its cobblestone streets. With a bullet and a dead body he staked his claim on the city, calling to the Capulets so they might see their great and terrifying ideals personified in him and him alone. He turned the heads of the mobs of Verona, Montague and Capulet alike looking to him. The moment the CITY welcomed him, it was as though it were holding its breath. It was then that the smell washed over him -- the heavy summer air, saturated with wild daffodils and the broken stems of milkmaid. With him, they would do better, be better -- their glory and adventure would know no bounds so long as they recognized him for what he was: the legendary FAIRY KING.

THEODORA MOREAU: Sponsor. When he first met them, there was no hesitation -- only a clear, stark certainty -- that it was to them and their cause that he would bend his knee. It is clear to him that heir ingenuity knows no bounds, and he is able to see their heart, ready and weeping upon their sleeve. They dubbed him Oberon because they knew he was ready to take up their mantle, but even in all the heady glory of his newfound family and ties, he does not forget what they have forgone and what they have suffered. A loss is still a loss, no matter how time seeks to salve the raw and aching wound. Though Theodora is the one that brought him into the fold, it is he who stands guard over them and their half-stitched heart. 

VIVIANNE SLOANE: Achilles Heel. He is a man that prides himself on his ability to guard every weakness, to carefully cultivate an infallible armor around his heart and his mind. There has never been any need to divulge it or place it into the care of another. Though there have been those who have managed to tug on its strings, none have ever been so lucky to claim it as their own. Save for Vivianne. They met a lifetime ago, and he is not so foolish to think that she could ever remember him -- but since the first glance, the first smile that she cared to toss his war, he has felt his heart eluding him, being prized from his chest by the melancholy smile that tugs on the corner of her mouth. His armor, for the most part, is impervious to weakness, but by God himself, he knows he has been damned with this singular Achilles Heel. 

PAVEL LAM: Devil. There are very few that can rival Olivio in his ability to drink every man in a bar under the table, but Pavel, he has discovered, has a gift for it. They met on one of his first nights in the city, and it seemed that like called to like -- Pavel immediately honing in on Olivio’s more mischievous proclivities. Admittedly, their first night was something of a blur and if Olivio were capable of remembering it, he is sure that it would have been one to remember. High praise from a man who has lived life to its fullest many times over.The companionship that they found in one another was something he had not realized he sorely missed, especially since he had forsaken so many of them in Spain. And though their loyalties may not align, there is nothing to stop either of them from indulging in debauched fun. After all, no one can really say no to the Fairy King when he demands a night of unabated and unfettered revelry. 

BATTISTA TAHAN: Mockery. In truth, Olivio pities the Montagues -- one of the foremost reasons being that they have a rather misshapen crew of semi-capable soldiers and captains. Only one of them he knows has had any military experience at all and, from what he has seen, it is nothing to be greatly admired or noted. Upon entering the city, he thought that he might make note of who could feasibly be reckoned with and one of the names that had made it onto his list was Battista Tahan, supposedly someone of repute. Olivio had made the mistake of getting his hopes up, thinking that he might have finally found a grand and dangerous rival, only to be disappointed by the mediocrity that he found. Perhaps he will meet his great rival, someday -- someone to hold a gun to his temple and force him onto a bended knee. In the meantime, though, he will make do with what Fate has given him: a toy, to be broken and tossed away until the next one came again. 

Olivio is portrayed by OSCAR ISAAC and was written by ROSEY. He is currently OPEN.